Author Spotlight: Kevin Travis

So it's Wednesday and that means I'm spotlighting another fellow author. This week it's the lovely Kevin Travis. Let's find out a bit more about him and his writing. ______________________________________________________________________

Dylan Bell, a freshman in high school, grew up idolizing his father, who played ten years of Major League Baseball. When his father passed away because of cancer, Dylan was heartbroken. But thanks to a loving family, a supportive girlfriend, a close bond with teammates, a crazy puppy, and a strong faith, Dylan grows as a baseball player and as a young man. With a little bit of help, and a lot of faith, Dylan just may be able to lead the Hudson Redmen to a place they have never been before in school history.
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Kevin Travis has been an award-winning journalist for over twenty years, mainly as a sports writer/editor. He lives in St. Louis with his beautiful wife and best friend, Allison, step-daughter, Katherine, and two dogs, Thor and Tasha.

Born in Ohio, where he graduated from Hudson High School and then Bowling Green State University, Travis moved to North Carolina in 2000. He enjoyed the beaches and the warm weather, often swearing that he would never again move to the Midwest or a cold climate.

But, love prevails. When his wife accepted a new job in Missouri, he quickly followed.

His hyperactive dog, Thor, a Golden Retriever, provided him plenty of material, and headaches, for his first book, Home Run from Heaven.

Both Thor and Tasha played parts in his second book, Skyler's Magical Christmas.

Home Run From Heaven and Skyler's Magical Christmas are available to purchase on Amazon.

Author Interview: Greg Swanson

What is your name and where do you live now? 
G. E. Swanson, California’s southern central valley

What is the name of your latest book, and if you had to summarise it what would you say? 
It is Apocalypse Z. Through a twist of fate a group of young adults cross paths while trying to escape a zombie apocalypse. With only each other to count on, they stick together and head for a safe location that is over 1,000 miles away. Naturally, there are some bad guys and a whole lot of zombies they have to fight on their journey.


How long does it usually take you to write a book, from the original idea to finishing writing it? 
It can take anywhere from three to seven months. It all depends on how much time during the week I have to work on it.


Do you have plans for a new book? 
Yes, I am currently working on the second book of the series and it should be out in March of 2013. It will be titled Apocalypse Z: Uncommon Ground.


What genre would you place your books into? 
This series would probably fit best in uncensored YA zombie/horror with a little bit of love story mixed in.


What made you decide to write that genre of book? 
I actually sat down to write a story about werewolves. It was my subconscious mind that took over and made it about zombies. Every time I tried, I was pulled this direction so I just went with it.


Where do you get your book plot ideas from? What/Who is your inspiration? 
I have a basic idea when I start, but allow it to grow as I go along. There are times when a new character or idea pops into my head on the spot. If it fits and can add to the story, I roll with it.

Do you choose a title first, or write the book then choose the title? 
I will usually select the title as I write the story. It will have to be something that fits with the storyline and cover.

Do you decide on character traits (ie shy, quiet, tomboy girl) before writing the whole book or as you go along? I will make a list of the characters, their names, basic descriptions, their weapons, and what they did for work. I also make a list of their quirks and things they have in common with each other. It helps to keep things consistent and somewhat plausible in the story. After all, you can’t have someone that’s five feet tall and weighs ninety pounds wielding a three foot long pipe wrench that weighs fifteen pounds.

Have you ever suffered from a "writer's block"? What did you do to get past the "block"? 
Yes, sometimes quite a bit. I usually relax and just review what I already have written. I avoid focusing on the block and that always helps.

What are you currently reading? Are you enjoying it? What format is it?(ebook, hardback or paperback)
Do you think ebooks will ever totally replace printed books? 

Probably not in my lifetime, I think there will still be some that will hang onto the printed page. What’s giving ebooks an edge is lower cost, convenience, and a wider variety of stories from independent authors. Online book sellers see it too and are making it easier for people to publish their stories.

Apocolypse Z is available to purchase on Amazon
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B008EDE1UU https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B008EDE1UU

Author Interview: J.A. Bailey

What is your name (or pen name) and where do you live now?

My name is J.A. Bailey and I like in London in the UK.

First off, how has your week been?

Great! Not very eventful but it meant that I could knuckle down and get a good bit of writing done. Work has been busy but it's been a fun week on the whole.

What is the name of your latest book, and if you had to summarise it what would you say?

My latest title is Georgie of the Jungle. It's about a rich English woman that gets lost in the jungle. She is rescued by a gorgeous warrior who introuduces her to his tribe. From there things get very interesting...

Is anything in your book based on real life experiences or purely all imagination?

Well half and half really. A lot of it is written from my lifestyle but I have a very vivid imagination too!

How does your family feel about the book?

My family don't know I write erotica. I'm not ashamed of it at all but there are certain things a parent should never know about their daughter. And I have professional image that I need to maintain so only my partner and my publisher knows my true identity.

Do you have plans for a new book?

Absoutely, I've always got ideas buzzing around and I have a few bits that I've jotted down that I'd like to explore futher. 

What genre would you place your books into?

Erotic or more specifically BDSM Erotica

What made you decide to write that genre of book?

I follow a BDSM lifestyle and it's become very popular. I never considered that people would be interested in reading about that sort of stuff - it was always considered very hardcore but I wrote my first story and discovered that actually people loved it. I think it's great that people are so open to different lifestyles.

Do you have a favourite out of the books you have written? If so why is it your favourite?

Georgie of the Jungle is my favourite  It's a little tongue in cheek and Georgie is a bit of a spoilt little rich girl so it was fun writing about her become lost in the jungle.

How do you go about creating the perfect "Swoon" worthy man?

They have to be gorgeous - in their own individual way - with the ability to nail you down with one look. They are all authoritative and confident but at the heart of it, very caring. They all care very much for the submissive which is something people who don't live the lifestyle don't understand. Underneath it all, there's a lot of love and care.

If you couldn’t be an author, what would your ideal career be?

Well I'm an executive assistant (glorified secretary) to a big firm in London and actually I really enjoy it. The people I work with are great and it's a busy, interesting job. I get to travel and meet all sorts of people so I guess if I failed at writing, I would stick with what I'm doing now.

What are you currently reading? Are you enjoying it? What format is it?

I've just finished Nikki Sex's series, Elizabeth's Erotic Bondage. It follows a couple through a rather unusual form of therapy to get their marriage back on track. It starts with Elizabeth naked and bound to the bed!

What piece of advice would you give to a new writer?

Keep writing, don't get distracted by marketing etc. Even if you're stuck, just force it out. Something will come out and you can always go back and edit later.

Georgie of the Jungle is available to purchase on Amazon.

The best Writer Memes

I come across these meme's quite a lot and post my faves on my Facebook page but I thought I'd chuck them all in one place.

I'm not sure about all of these and I pray I don't think of myself as quite so melodramatic as the fifth one. I'm sure as heck not writing life changing literature but hopefully bringing a few stomach flipping romantic moments into someone's life. However, I have met the odd author or two who certainly fits the category. The last picture is very close - I do a lot of Googling but realistically it should be a Facebook screenshot.

The partner one is definitley accurate though you need to replace the beer bottle with a cup of coffee and 'What I Really Do' is me at several points during the day. 

I like the middle one. Do I think I create magic? Well maybe a teeny bit of romantic magic, but I hope my ego hasn't swelled that much. 

This my favourite, only because of the monkeys. If only it was that easy!

Author Spotlight: Sonia Taylor Brock

So it's Wednesday again and that means I'm introducing you to another author. Meet Sonia Taylor Brock, author of The Inheritance of a Swamp Witch and The Witch's Welcome.

The first in the Swamp Witch series, this story takes place in the Swamps of Southern Louisiana. Told in the Cajun dialect, it is about the adventures of a young man into the surprising world of the supernatural. He is shocked to learn that the world he has been accustomed to is not what it seems. In fact, nothing is what it seems. He discovers Witches, Dragons, Trolls, Fairies and Angels are only the tip of the iceberg.

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 Sonia Taylor Brock, Author currently self published, has written two books, THE INHERITANCE OF A SWAMP WITCH and A WITCH'S WELCOME. Both of THE SWAMP WITCH series, the books are the result of a wonderful conglomeration of Cajun Creole culture and bringing legends of old into a modern focus in this urban fantasy. New twists on the creation of Vampires, Were creatures, Angels, Trolls, Titans and magic and how they mesh with today's world where humans understand The One God and the power of prayer. These books use humor and adventure to tell the story.  She has also written a series of short stories that revolve around the main character of THE SWAMP WITCH series and how she affects changes in the destiny of the people she meets. 

Sonia has worked with several publications throughout her career such as The Cullman Times, Creative Loafing Magazine, The Atlanta Journal Constitution, Facility Safety Management Magazine, Galz Magazine and published articles in Trade Publications as a Marketing Professional throughout career.  Sonia is a colorful person and characterizes her life development as constantly evolving and never ending. She refuses to be old and professes to have a young mind even it does seem to forget more things now. She loves to Live, Love, Laugh, Dream and dance in the rain. Sonia currently lives in the Atlanta, Georgia area with her husband James and her daughters and grandson.

The Crimson Castle Excerpt

The Crimson Castle was my first book, and probably my first love. This was very much written for myself rather than for the world of publishing. And below is an example of a moment that I relished writing. The dialogue between them came so naturally, it was so much fun playing on the tension between them. I hope you enjoy reading it as  much as I did writing it.

***

“Are you enjoying yourself, Evelyn?”

“Does it seem I am?” A wry smile touched her lips and she turned to meet his gaze.

“You are most practiced at appearing so, it seems.” Gabriel’s eyes crinkled in a half-smile of amusement.

“I am a woman. It is our duty to appear happy in the company of boorish men. I believe I am not the only one practiced in the art of deception.” She gave him a knowing look.

“You believe me to be a liar?”

“Nay, not a liar but I think you as capable of deception as I am.”

“I know not how to deceive as a woman does.”

“And yet you are but a riddle to me, sir. With one hand you will slay and burn and with the other you will save and protect. Tell me, which of these is the true Gabriel of Merston?”

He bore down upon her, his eyes darkening. “Why do you wish to know?”

She studied him, undeterred by his piercing look. “I know not.”

“Does it please you to believe that I am playacting? That my actions you so deeply disapprove of are merely a ruse?”

“Please me? If your actions were part of a ruse then I would think it a vile trick indeed. I think you capable of many things, but a ruse…? Nay.”

“Then mayhap, my lady, the only one here being deceived is yourself. I can offer no excuses for my deeds but that I performed them in the line of duty.”

“You will continue to defend your misdeeds by way of duty?”

“Defend? Nay, I offer no such defence, I cannot excuse the inexcusable. I simply offer explanation. I suspect such a justification to be deficient for you, my lady, but here you have the truth.”

Evelyn tilted her head and studied him. Whilst Gabriel had never openly lied to her, his brutal honesty and the admission of his guilt were far more than she had expected.

He gave her a mocking smile when she answered him with nothing but silence. “I fear mayhap the truth is a little hard for you to endure, my lady.”

“You have little knowledge of my endurance; I assure you there is much I can bear, even the truths you keep so deeply hidden.”

“You would be wise to hasten your curiosity, Evelyn, lest you regret the answers you may receive.”

“Are you trying to scare me, Gabriel?”

“Do I scare you?”

A look crossed his face, a confusing mixture of hope and anxiety and Evelyn realised once more how difficult this man was to read. Jolting her out of her reverie, he held out his hand.

“I will save you from answering as I fear your response will pain us both.” He looked around the dancers jostling for space. “Will you not join me in a dance?”

Book Tour Stop; Highland Quest by B.J. Scott

I'm thrilled to welcome fellow medieval romance writer, B.J. Scott to my blog today. She talks about her latest release, Highland Quest. Be sure to comment as she will award gifts of swag (including a canvas tote bag, a mouse pad, a pen, book thong, bookmark, can cooler, magnet, and key chain -- US/Canada only) to randomly drawn commenters from this tour and her Virtual Book Tour, and a grand prize of one $50 Amazon GC to one randomly drawn commenter from this tour and her Super Book Blast.

What is your name (or pen name) and where do you live now?
My name is Barb Babbage w/a B. J. Scott. I live in Port Burwell, Ontario, Canada, in a small town on Lake Erie.


First off, how has your week been?
As usual, it has been a busy week, but I am happy to take time out to visit with you and your guests.


Did you always want to be a writer? If not what did you want to be?
What I wanted to be changed frequently when I was a child, but as I got older, going into the health care field or teaching became my goals. I worked for fifteen years as an RN, also spent several years working in Child and Youth work and Developmental Service work ( caring for children and adults with developmental challenges)


Please tell us about your current release.
Highland Quest is the sequel to Highland Legacy, the first book in my series. While both are stand alone titles, they deal with three brothers, their involvement in Scotland’s bid for Independence and the women who impact and change their lives.  Highland Quest is Bryce’s story. I am currently working on Highland Homecoming, the third book involving Alasdair, the oldest and least likely to fall in love or take a bride. That is until he is forced to aid a woman who causes him to question his conviction and chosen path.


Is anything in your book based on real life experiences or purely all imagination?
Because my books are historical romances, set in medieval time period, it is difficult to incorporate real life experiences. However through research I can imagine what it would be like to live in the day and how I would react if I were the heroine in one of my books.


What was your favourite chapter to write and why?
The first and final chapters are a draw. I like the first because the book is fresh and I try to make my opening chapter exciting. The final because it ties up all the loose ends and brings my book to what I hope will be a satisfying conclusion.


What was the hardest part of writing your book?
The most difficult thing is keeping the muse on track, because I have so many ideas for other books. With an extremely busy lifestyle, it is sometimes hard to find time to write.


Are your books available as eBooks? Were you involved in that process at all? Do you read eBooks or is it paper all the way?
My books come out in e-book first and then are available in print six months later. I write the books, but the editor/publisher takes care of the rest. I used to be a paper all the way reader, but once I got my e-book reader that changed. Now, I find I seldom read a paper book.


Did you have any say in the title / cover of your book?
I chose the titles for both my books, but it is up to the editor in the end. If they don’t like it, they can change it. The cover is designed by a cover artist and the editor has final say. We submit a sheet, a wish list so to speak, but don’t see the cover until it has already been selected.


Is there a part of the story you really liked but had to remove, and if so, could you tell us why?
In Highland Quest, there was really nothing I had to take out. In the first book, Highland Legacy I had to take out several chapters to get the word count under 100,000 words, but they were saved for the sequel because they involved the Hero and Heroine of Highland Quest. When I first started writing my series, I had several POV and had to trim it down to just the Hero and Heroine, a standard requirement of most historical romance publishers. I was told while it enhanced the book, made secondary characters more vibrant and made my story more three dimensional, it did not follow the guidelines set by the publishers and had to keep it to the two POV.


How does your family feel about the book?
My family are my biggest supporters. My husband is very pleased that I am living my dream and is very encouraging. My mom is a long time romance reader so loved the book as did my other family members. But they have to say that right? LOL


If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your book?
I think in hindsight there are always things you would change about a book, especially your first one. But so far, I am pleased with Highland Quest. I strive to improve with each book and use constructive suggestions for my readers and editor to do so.


When you started your book, did you plan on writing it as a series, or did it just grow into one?
I always had a series in mind, but planned to wait and see how the first book made out before making any final decisions. I wrote the first book as a stand alone and did the same with the second. This way, a person can pick up either book and read it with ease. The sequel happened sooner then planned. Fans of the first book asked for a sequel and so did my editor. The outline for the third book just fell into place as I was finishing Highland Quest.
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No longer content in the shadows of his older brothers and on a quest to find his destiny, Bryce Fraser's chosen path is fraught with danger, passion, and decisions. Can his unspoken love for spirited, beguiling Fallon be triumphant in a time of war and uncertainty, or will they both fall prey to the devious plans of a traitorous laird from a rival clan?

~

Excerpt

Bryce closed the gap between them. She heard his footsteps, felt his warm breath on the back of her neck as he spoke, but didn’t turn around.

“Please dinna be angry with me, Fallon. I could not bear to think you held me any ill will. This is for the best.” He gently touched her shoulder.

“Dinna leave.” She dropped the sack and whipped around to face him, the words escaping before she could stop them. “Why must you go? Why must you risk your life?”

“You know why.” He yanked her against his chest and captured her mouth.

But this time she did not fight his advances. She wrapped her arms around his neck, responding with equal enthusiasm to his kiss. Her lips parted, welcoming the sweep of his tongue. As he deepened the exploration, her knees buckled, and she clung to his tunic as if her life depended on it.

Unshed tears stung her eyes, but she managed to blink them away. This might be the last time they would see each other and she suddenly found herself wanting a memory that would last forever. What she was about to ask was wrong, and could only lead to heartache. While she knew she should fight temptation with her last breath, she was only human.

“Join with me, Bryce,” she whispered against his lips.
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With a passion for historical romance, history in general, and anything Celtic, B.J. always has an exciting work in progress. Each story offers a blend of romance, adventure, suspense, and, where appropriate, a dab of comic relief. Carefully researched historical facts are woven into each manuscript, providing a backdrop from which steamy romance, gripping plots, and vivid characters—dashing alpha heroes and resourceful, beguiling heroines you can’t help but admire—spring to life. A member of RWA, World Romance Writers, Celtic Hearts Romance Writers, and Savvy Authors, B.J. also writes contemporary, paranormal, time travel, and romantic suspense.

C.S. Lewis first captivated B. J.’s imagination in the fourth grade, and her desire to write sprang from there. Following a career in nursing and child and youth work, B.J. married her knight-in-shining-armor, and he whisked her away to his castle by the sea. In reality, they share their century-old home in a small Canadian town on the shore of Lake Erie with three dogs and a cat. When she is not working at her childcare job, on her small business, or writing, you will find her reading, camping, or antique hunting.

https://www.facebook.com/authorbjscott
http://www.authorbjscott.com/
 http://authorbjscott.wordpress.com/

Highland Quest is available from Amazon and Soulmate Publishing

Author Interview: Lillian Brummet

Tell our readers about yourself and where you live.
Well, I’m a 43-year-old woman with a passion for animals and the environment. I love playing in the dirt (a.k.a. gardening) and enjoy being in nature. I’ve been married for 23 years (coming up in April 2013) and just moved to our dream location about a year ago – Creston, BC (Canada). Creston is a small city located in the middle of the Kootenay region, famous for the wildlife, mountains, golfing, ski resorts, lakes and artisans and tourists. We wanted to move here some 15 years ago, but life kept us in other locations until recently. After experiencing the grief of losing family members we realized that waiting to live our dreams when we retire just wasn’t good enough. So we packed up our things, sold our house and took the leap. It was a little scary at first, but we’ve settled in nicely and love our new life here. Every day when walking the dogs around the neighbourhood I marvel at the stunning beauty around us, and come back home with a renewed sense of how lucky we are to be here.

Can you tell us how long you’ve been writing?
I started writing professionally back in ’99 after having been involved in a life-changing accident (3 car pile up, I was in the middle) that had me rethinking my entire lifestyle. You see, I had spent most of my life just trying to fit in, to be normal, acceptable - and realized that all that added up to nothing at all. I was miserable, I was empty, exhausted. Something had to change. Once I realized that life could be blown out like a candle I had this craving to leave a legacy now, and to make a difference with every breath I took. That is what really started my career off, this passion for making a difference. I had always written, it was something I could turn to for healing, for therapy – and so it was something that really stood out for me when I evaluated where I wanted to go in the future. The first project, after learning the business of being a writer, was to write an article about the value of recycling… and that lead to a column called Trash Talk, which was published for about 6 or 7 years prior to evolving into the first edition of the book. Now Trash Talk is a 2-book series; the first focuses on describing the importance and the incredible benefits from the R’s of waste management (rethink, refuse, reduce, reuse, recycle/repurpose, rot) with a special emphasis on reuse and repurpose. The second book focuses on reduce – so it talks about energy conservation, water use, composting, and so on.

What is the name of your latest book, and if you had to summarise it what would you say?
Purple Snowflake Marketing – How To Make Your Book Stand Out In A Crowd (378 pages) is the latest release – now in the 3rd edition. This book acts like a step-by-step guide for writers, helping them see their career as a business, avoid common pitfalls, create an efficient marketing plan for each book they write, and closes with a thousand or more resources. I also just finished revising the Jumpstart For Writers booklet (only 40 pages), that offers encouraging tips, inspiring quotes, and links to incredibly helpful interviews - all mixed in with an array of articles that we have written on the world of writing. Jump Start for Writers can be considered a precursor to the Purple Snowflake Marketing book.  We’ll soon have this booklet available in e-book format on our site for .99 cents, and intend to use it for contests and give-aways.
I have 3 other manuscripts on the back burner waiting for me to have the time. These are a 2nd book of poetry, a gardening book that offers 3 generations of gardening advice, and a recipe book based on harvests from the garden.

Did you learn anything from writing your books?  
I think a writer learns something new with each book they write… learning more about the craft itself, or the publishing industry, or different formats they are using for each book, or developing skills that improve their productivity. With Trash Talk I learned that people really do care about the environment, they really are suffering financially and can use the ideas to deal with both these issues – but that they are reluctant to take the time to learn, they want things to be easy, they don’t want to have to make changes. So I learned that change has to be so appealing that they see it as worthwhile. With Towards Understanding I realized the power of poetry and how it can be used to help others find expression for their own hopes, dreams and pain. With Purple Snowflake Marketing I refined my organization skills and by putting my own business plan and marketing information in the form of a guide, I was able to improve my own efforts as a writer. The book is something I use as a tool in my own career.

Do you have a favourite out of the books you have written? If so why is it your favourite?
Wow! Now that is a difficult question for me to answer since each book really is my passion. For business I’d have to say the marketing book; for leaving a legacy I’d have to say the green living series - but for personal fulfilment – that would have to be the poetry book.

Do you have a certain routine you have for writing?
When working on a manuscript, so much of myself is poured out on to those pages that I feel absolutely exhausted at the end of the day. I need distractions to be at a minimum – so Dave will be sent to the downstairs office, both the phone and the TV are turned off (we’re not big TV people), and any demanding chores have to be done first. I can’t be working on something and thinking about the bread I have to bake next, guilt from neglecting the dogs, or piles of dishes needing to be done. At the same time, one has to find a balance and let some things go undone. I like to have some ambient music going in the background sometimes – no beat, no rhythm, or lyrics. I love my coffee, and usually have a cup beside me, but it often goes ignored as I disappear into words and has to be rewarmed in the microwave at least once. I’m definitely a morning person and tend to burn out by 2-3 in the afternoon, so I try to get my writing projects, interviews, blog posts, etc. completed before then.

Can you describe the feeling you had when you saw your published book for the first time?
Scared! I was worried no one would like it, that it wasn’t worthy of attention, that I would be criticized and being sensitive – couldn’t handle it. I was also scared of success, of what that might mean and how it might affect my life. The first few interviews and media events were nerve wracking, but with exposure to this they became second nature – I actually look forward to them now.

Has anything surprised you about your writing life?
Having been a business owner in the past and had supervisor positions before that, along with taking a course on the business side of writing, I knew what I was getting into. The biggest surprise initially was how long everything took. At first I felt so alone, so misunderstood by family and friends who didn’t understand about running a business or the craft of writing. Today I am occasionally surprised by the incredible generosity and support I receive from the media contacts, from readers, and from family.

Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
Time is my greatest challenge. With 5 books out now, many of them in 3rd editions, I am constantly doing marketing activities while keeping an active presence online and keeping in touch with networking contacts. There’s always some new email coming in with a query to be on our radio show or blog, someone wants an article for a publication, somebody else is scheduling an interview with us. Managing the blog posts, updates to the website and keeping up with hosting and producing the radio show eats up a lot of time, up to 15 hours a week. I love doing those activities, but sometimes I wonder if the time they absorb is worth it. I have, as I said, 3 other manuscripts are just waiting for me to be able to get to them. And there is the on-going pressure of feeling like there never is enough marketing or promotion activities going on – by this I mean that I have files of opportunities that I don’t have the time to pursue.


What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
I’m tenacious, and loathe to let any opportunity go by. I keep long lists of to-do’s and marketing opportunities that I add to regularly. I have a hard time letting go of the office, and this can be irritating to my husband who wants to go places or have a day off. Even if I leave the office I’m thinking about it, making lists of ideas as they come to me – and struggle to not talk about it during a day off.

Is there a word, phrase or quote you like?
"You are not here merely to make a living. You are here in order to enable the world to live more amply, with greater vision, with a finer spirit of hope and achievement. You are here to enrich the world, and you impoverish yourself if you forget the errand."
~ Woodrow Wilson

"Each time a person stands up for an ideal, or acts to improve the lot of others, or strikes out against injustice, he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope, and crossing each other from a million different centers of energy and daring, these ripples build a current that can sweep down the mightiest walls of oppression and resistance."
~ Robert Kennedy

“Perhaps then, if we listen attentively, we shall hear amid the uproar of empires and nations, a faint flutter of wings, a gentle stirring of life and hope. Some will say that hope lies in a nation; others in a person. I believe rather that it is awakened, revived, nourished by millions of solitary individuals whose deeds and works every day negate frontiers and the crudest implications of history.  As a result, there shines forth fleetingly the ever-threatened truth that each and every person, on the foundation of his or her own sufferings and joys, builds for all.” 
~ Albert Cammus – The Artist and His Time

~ Award winning author Lillian Brummet produces and hosts the Conscious Discussions Talk Radio show, and manages the Brummet’s Conscious Blog (http://www.brummet.ca)

Book Review: Flip It Around by Joy Marino

Flip It Around: How to Change Your Thinking and Create Your Success by Joy Marino
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What strikes you about this book is the instant positivity. Ms Marino writes in such a way that you feel instantly revived and infinitely more positive before she's even taught you anything.

This is not a comprehensive guide to changing your life but is a book that you can dip in and out of in times of need (or even when you're feeling quite content really!). I liked that it was not intense and felt it was something you could come back to easily.

Ms Marino follows the age-old idea of looking at things positively, which is a fine idea, but sometimes you just need someone to break it down for you. This is what this book does for you. It's all very well for some to say 'think positively' but what if you don't know how to? This book asks simple questions that help you discover your unique abilities and encourages you to move forwards with this knowledge.

A very well written, personable book that will bring you instantly out of any negativity and with time help you learn to 'Flip it Around.'

Exploring The Angel's Assassin: The Baronial Revolt of 1088

If you've read The Angel's Assassin then you will know it's set to a backdrop of a revolt that took place in 1088. The events of 1088 trigger the circumstances in which Annabel and Nicholas meet. I must admit that I originally intended for the events to have a greater role in the story but Annabel and Nicholas sort of took over. I'm glad, however, their relationship became the key to the story. In the book, Annabel's home becomes overrun by rebels. Though set in fictional Alderweald in Kent, castles in Kent were laid to siege, particularly because they controlled the river crossing.

King William II

 When William I died, he gave the crown to his favourite, and youngest son, William II or more often known as William Rufus. His older brother, Robert, was the heir to Normandy and so effectively William I's domains were split.

 In April 1088, trouble began to stir. Instigated by Odo of Bayeux - recently restored to Earldom after being released from captivity by Rufus after his father had imprisoned him - several powerful barons joined forces to persuade Robert that they would support his bid for the crown of England and therefore unite the two domains once more. Odo appears to be the key to this rebellion, having taken a dislike to William Rufus and believing Robert to be softer in his rule. Odo was essentially a trouble maker and likely thought he would have an easier ride with Robert ruling England.

Outbreaks of rebellion turned out to be fairly spread apart and William made some savvy deals with the rebel barons and his supporters with promises of lower taxations and relaxation of laws. The church remained behind William and he marched on Tonbridge and Rochester, hoping to seize Odo at Rochester.

Rochester Castle
English Heritage Image

Odo escaped to Pevensey Castle before Rufus got to Rochester and Rufus followed him. A six week siege took place. Odo was captured and Odo swore to surrender Rochester, which was still under the hands of the rebels. However, when they came to the walls of Rochester, the rebels did not take lightly to this news and set about freeing Odo and who was steadily becoming a real thorn in Rufus' side!

Rufus commences siege warfare against Rochester Castle and lack of supplies and disease force the defenders into discussions. Odo and his followers are allowed to travel to Normandy unhindered. With the exile of Odo, the rebellion falls apart.

Surprisingly, Rufus  was fairly lenient and handed out fines and confiscations although the town of Tonbridge was burnt to the ground and Odo had his lands and titles stripped. Unfortunately for Rufus' supporters, all of his promises were subsequently forgotten. It was said that when asked about it, William responded 'Who can be expected to keep all his promises?'

False reviews

*****RECENT UPDATE****
I have no idea if this blogpost is still getting traffic from Goodreads and the writer's forums - frankly I've gone down the route of 'ignorance is bliss' but for those of you that may be following this (I'm getting a lot of traffic from somewhere still and my blog posts aren't that interesting!), as far as I'm aware Goodreads have taken action and deleted all the fake reviews - which seemed to come from Vietnam apparently. I've not looked - again ignorance is bliss - it's too painful still but I'm thankfully back to burying my head in writing. I'm laying low still - my blog is not as active, you may notice, as it was  - but I'll not give up doing what I love and will be back on the promo trail in the near future. I am saddened that the first conclusion people jumped to was a negative one but understand that those who don't know me have no reason to think otherwise. However, these forum posts have damaged all the work I put in in the last year months in promoting myself and other authors. So, if you see anything like this occurring again, to me or anyone else, please get in touch with them first. We are human and we do hurt. We are not just a name. In the meantime, I am leaving the 'explanation/apology' up for those that want my side of things but for me, this is the end of it. Onwards and upwards.

***************************************************************

So very recently I received a  message through Goodreads. It drew my attention to the fact that it appeared a whole load of false reviews had been made on my book. I'm not sure why but it occurred at the same time as a free promotion. I will admit to be quite shaken - each of these reviews looks strange and is obviously very damaging to the individual book and my reputation as an author. Those of you who I talk to will understand that this is NOT what I'm about and I fear I have been - dare I say it - a victim of some of the bullying that goes on in the author community. I must add that the authors who I consider my friends are wonderful, giving people and we all help each other in every way we can.

Unfortunately, at this moment, the concept of fake reviews is very high in the public's mind since some well-known authors have admitted/confessed to using them and even writing nasty reviews on their competitors books. While no-one likes poor reviews - oh boy, are they painful! - they can help if they are constructive and believe it or not, particularly on Amazon, they boost your sales! This, I believe, is because readers are able to make a proper, informed decision.

I do offer free books to reviewers but this is always on the understanding that an honest review is offered. Needless to say, I'm a little shaken up by this message and have been in contact with Goodreads concerning it. I hope that those who read and enjoy my books have no fear of being mislead and if you have any questions concerning reviews or anything, I welcome it! Thanks as usual for your support.
****UPDATE****

Have just heard from Goodreads support and they are investigating the false accounts. Hopefully they will be removed and this can be forgotten. In the meantime, I am keeping a low (as far as possible) profile so I don't attract any further attention as I don't want a repeat of this. I hope whoever perpetuated this has had their fun and it can be forgotten. I would appreciate those in the forums dropping it too, as I'm sure you can understand this has been painful and damaging. Thanks again for any support. I am not looking at Goodreads or any other forums where my name has cropped up so I have no idea what is being said but appreciate anyone that has supported me.

Authorgraph...let me scribble all over your ebook!

You may or may not know about Authorgraph. It's been around a while now so I imagine many do. It allows readers to request a digital autograph from authors on their favourite ebooks. You'll see I have a little widget on this blog that allows you to click through and request one.

I've been getting quite a few requests now and, honestly, I struggle with what to write. Do I go with a generic 'All the best.' or 'Thanks for your support.' or do I do what I really want to do and write a love note to my reader explaining how much I love and adore them all...no, seriously, do I? It would probably take up half the book. I'm not known for putting things succinctly.

The best bit about Authorgraph was trying to do my signature digitally. I don't have a pen pad thingy (yes, I know there's a technical term for that) and I used a touch pad. Do you know how difficult it is to write things with a touchpad? Well, if you've ever tried, then, yes, you probably do. I'm pretty sure I spent a good four hours cursing and fighting with my laptop to create something that didn't look like a 3 year olds scribble.

Anyway, I digress. What I really want to know is what would you like to see authors write? And if you're an author, what do you write?

And if you fancy taking a look at my terrible lovely e-signature, you can request an Authorgraph here:


                                                             

Book Marketing for Dummies

1. Write.

No...seriously. I get asked a lot about marketing, particularly in interviews and I try to give some sage, serious advice, but the best thing you can do is write. The more books you have, the higher your chances are of getting found!

Short stories are a fantastic way of reaching new readers, particularly if you can offer them for free, or even just $0.99/77p on Amazon. This is a nice affordable way for people to find you. But do put some effort into it. Do get it properly proof read. This is your once chance to make a good impression, so do it properly.

Social marketing doesn't really exist. For me, it's a way of keeping in touch with current fans. I gain very few new fans through Facebook and Twitter. I do gain the odd one or two but its definitely not the best way to gain new readers. I enjoy Facebook and enjoy staying in touch with readers. Do it for the love of it and that will come across.  It's a good way to create a brand surrounding yourself but it rarely adds up to sales. Think about the pages you follow...do you actually like their product or is just the content you like? It's most likely that you just enjoy their posts and couldn't care less about their product. 

There are loads of little things you can do in an attempt to push your book, all of which may add up to a sale or two if you're lucky, but at the end of the day, its like door to door salesmen - no-one likes having a product pushed on them. You have to concentrate on having the best possible product ready for when they come to you.

Do have a Facebook page, do interact with people, do have a webpage or blog with a way to subscribe to your newsletter. Don't spam groups or forums with your book links no matter how sure you are that people will absolutely want to buy your book. I probably link to my books about once a month on all my social pages combined. And finally, don't sacrifice time spent writing to market. It simply does not pay off.

Author Spotlight: Zach Abrams

Today I'm throwing the spotlight on fellow Brit author, Zack Abrams. Here's a bit about on of his books:

1 What is your book about?

My book tells the story of Benjanin Short in his various incarnations.  Benjamin is a very complex character and compartmentalises his life to an extreme.  His life is split into five different characters, each living under a variation of his name and the people in each of these lives have little or no knowledge of the others.  The one common thread weaving each of his lives together is his obsession for music.  There is an inevitability the divisions can not be sustained and the story deals with the unforeseen events taking place causing the divisions to become blurred with catastrophic results.

Benjamin is an anti-hero.  Although each of his characters has some redeeming features, they essentially are all different aspects of Benjamin's self obsession.  He is a sociopath constantly using other people to serve his own ends.  

2 How did you come up with the idea for your book?

That's the strange part.  I didn't have an idea for a book.  I was sitting thinking about writing something and I had the idea for the character.  He developed in my mind and I thought I'd start trying to write about him.  At first I though it would make an essay or a short story.  The ideas expanded as I tried to explain about the different aspects of his character and the story seemed to write itself.  At no time did I prepare or think through a plot and I didn't know where it was going.  Afterwards, when I read it through for the first time it was like reading someone else's novel. 

3  Does your main character resemble anyone in your family or circle of friends?

I certainly hope not.  True there are aspects of myself and of people I know but Benjamin is not based on any one person.  To survive in modern society, I, like most people have to compartmentalise.  Benjamin takes this beyond the boundaries of what is normal or reasonable.  Each of Benjamin's lives are reasonable normal if taken in isolation - it's only when they are combined under the same character and obsessively ring fenced that they become pathological 

4 Who is your favorite writer? Why?

There are many writers I love depending on my mood.  One that I particularly enjoy is the British author Michael Dobbs (to confuse matters there is a US author of the same name).  I became addicted to his books after reading 'House of Cards' where I adored his depiction of Francis Urquhart.  His own political experiences make his novels knowledgeable, insightful and amusing.

5 How long did it take you to write your book?

Once I started writing 'Ring Fenced,' I was consumed by it and wrote obsessively.  I completed the first draft within five weeks the needed a rest to draw breath.  The first edit took me about four months and it was over another year before I was sufficiently happy with it to allow anyone else, outside family, to read it. I waited a further year or more to embark on another novel and I have recently competed 'Made a Killing.' It was less obsessively written but not by much and I hope to have it published quite soon

 6 What strange writing rituals do you have?

I don't know if I'd go as far as calling them rituals but I prefer to write into a word document while having a couple of windows open in the background.  I have one open to a dictionary /thesaurus and the other open in Google search.  This way I can often research or confirm small details I'm writing about while the thought is in my head.  Only recently, I've added a separate word document to the combination so I can make notes on my time line and characters as I go along.

I've recently noticed that I'm not too distracted by background noise so I don't have a problem with a television or radio being on while I'm writing.  It's maybe helped by my partial deafness but strangely enough I've found afterwards that I have a reasonable awareness of what the programme has been about and it hasn't significantly affected my writing - except maybe a few more typos to correct.

7 What are your hobbies? 

Hobbies? Are you serious?  Where's the time?  Seriously though, I still have a lot of work commitments and try to write whenever I can.  This involves the associated requirements to edit and publish and to try to mutually support other writers that I know.  Outside of all of this I enjoy reading, music travel and sports.  

8 What are you reading at the moment?

Currently I'm reading 'The Invention of the Big Bang' by Fred Schafer.  It has a very unusual style and is a compelling read with the author telling you someone's retelling of the main characters life story.  It took a bit of effort to get into it but it's proving very much worth the effort, absorbing.  I love reading Indie books, you find real originality while the mainstream mainly keeps churning out variations of the same thing.
______________________________________________________________

Benjamin enjoys sex, he likes money, he loves power and he’s addicted to control.

If you think your life’s complicated then spare a thought for him as he obsessively juggles and controls his five independent lives.

One man, five lives, ring-fenced and separated,

Bennie, loving husband and father,

Benjie, beloved youngest son,

Ben, successful corporate banker,

Benjamin, millionaire author and publisher of pornography

and Jamie, dynamic part-time lover of a beautiful musician.

Relying on his Blackberry to keep all his personae separate, his life is perfect.

But what if holes begin to appear in the divisions?

When a sequence of events throws his life into chaos, his separate words collide with explosive consequences.

____________________________________________________________________

After a successful career in business and finance, Zach Abrams recently started writing fiction.

His first novel 'Ring Fenced' was published in November 2011.  This is a crime story with a difference, having an underlying theme of obsession, power and control.

This novel was followed by a collaboration with Elly Grant to produce 'Twists and Turns' a book of short stories and flash fiction.

Alike his central character in 'Ring Fenced,' (Benjamin Short), Zach Abrams completed his education in Scotland and went on to a career in business and finance.  He is married with two children.  He plays no instruments but has an eclectic taste in music, although not as obsessive as Benjamin.

Unlike Benjamin, he does not maintain mistresses, write pornography and (sadly) he does not have ownership of such a valuable company.  He is not a sociopath (at least by his own reckoning) and all versions of his life are aware of and freely communicate with each other.

Zach has completed his second novel 'Made a Killing' which has recently been published.  This is a fast moving, gripping novel set in the tough crime-ridden streets of Glasgow. More in keeping with ‘Made a Killing,’ Zach was raised in Glasgow and has spent many years working in Central Scotland.

You can purchase Ring Fenced and Made a Killing on Amazon.

Getting to know you...competition announcement!

On my Facebook page this week, I'm running an 'Ask me anything' week. It will give you the chance to ask my questions and pick my brains about absolutely anything. Seriously, I'm up for all sorts whether weird or wacky! I will use my discretion if your question is too shocking, however!

And I want to get to know you guys too, so stop by, ask me a question and have a chat.

I'm also giving away a signed paperback copy of The Angel's Assassin to one commenter and an ecopy of any one of my books to another.

So stop on by and say hello! I hope to see you there.

Author Interview: Lawna Mackie

Welcome to author Lawna Mackie today! She's sharing a bit with us about her book Quinn's Christmas Wish (we did connected just before Christmas and well, with all the snow we're having here, it's very appopriate!) and reading and writing in general.

Thank you for having me on your site Samantha. I hope you and your readers will enjoy learning a little bit about me and my novella QUINN’S CHRISTMAS WISH

1. What books did you love as a child? Why?
I loved the book “Secret World of Og”. The names still stick in my head. The Pollywog and the critters called Ogs.

2. Who are your favorite authors? How did they influence your writing?
My favorite authors are Sherrilyn Kenyon and Christine Feehan. Their novels always transported me to another place. Paranormal romance stuck in my heart.

3. When did you decide you wanted to be a writer? Why did you decide to write?
I always dreamed of being a writer, but never really decided to embrace the thought until about four years ago.

4. What are the joys of writing for you?
I love being swept away when I write. I love my characters and the journey they make throughout the novel.

5. What are the obstacles of writing? How do you overcome them?
Finding the time to write is the largest obstacle for me. I over come that with the help of my wonderful husband who gives me all the support and space I need. He’s always by my side helping me to succeed.

6. What is your favorite genre to read in? Write in? Why?
I love paranormal/romantic fantasy. I read it and I write it. I also love historical romances. My Christmas novella QUINN’S CHRISTMAS WISH is a bit of both. It’s a paranormal within a Christmas story.

7. How would you describe your writing style? How did you develop it?
Good question. I think there is a genuine innocence about what I write, but I also love fantasy creatures, and I’m not scared of scary villains. I’ve always thought of my life as somewhat of a fairy tale so I think I share that in my writing.

8. What was the inspiration for your book?
I’ve brought to life an animal that lives in my heart. It’s a memory that has lived with me for many years. I’ll have to save that story for another time.

9. What were the challenges of writing your story?
QUINN’S CHRISTMAS WISH takes place in 1912, so that was challenging for me…it is a historical with a paranormal elements, something I haven’t attempted to write before.

10. Tell us about your book.
QUINN’S CHRISTAS WISH is a magical paranormal romance Christmas novella. It’s a heart felt story about compassion, love and the hardships found in a town called Bandit Creek. Here is a review I copied from Amazon. It gives a good description of the story.

“Loved this book! The connection between Samuel and Amanda was immediate. Such a fiery romance between the two. Poor Quinn with all his trials and heartbreak at least is finally able to find a friend in the most unlikely place, Jazira, a fantastical talking wolf. Jazira is able to survive in this world only due to the kindness of Quinn, Samuel and Amanda, but gives back more than what she has received. Lawna made me cry twice with this story, once in despair, and then again in happiness! Looking forward to Ms. Mackie's other two books coming out in December and January, and looking forward to more Bandit Creek Books!”

Here is the Amazon link


11. What did you learn about yourself from writing this book?
I learned that I really enjoyed writing a historical paranormal romance, and I enjoyed the youth aspect of this novel.

12. What advice do you have for other writers?
Don’t ever give up! This is a quote from one of my co-workers that holds a lot of meaning.
“Congratulations for doing what many only think about!”

13. What do you wish someone had told you about writing that you learned the hard way?
1. Write because you love it.
2. Write what you love to read.
3. Enjoy writing because editing isn’t fun.

14. Anything else you’d like your readers to know?
QUINN’S CHRISTMAS WISH, and the conception of Bandit Creek Books was done in conjunction with a fantastic group of authors. I encourage everyone to visit Bandit Creek at www.banditcreekbooks.com

Lawna recnetly also released

PErFECT MISFITS

For more information please stop by for a visit www.lawnamackie.ca

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Chapter One

BANDIT CREEK, MONTANA, 1912

Dried leaves crunched beneath twelve-year old Quinn’s weight as he sank to his knees. His throat burned and he swallowed hard, his breath catching in his chest. He would not cry. He wouldn’t! In slow motion, he watched a drop of his crimson blood splatter against the carpet of fallen leaves. Anger and hurt brought unshed tears to his eyes.

The wind gusted amongst the trees, blowing the hair away from his face and forcing him to sit up. Whatever leaves were left on the poplars rustled and the tall spruce groaned and cracked, swaying along in the breeze.

Quinn shook his head and pounded the ground with his fist.

The flood of Bandit Creek a year ago had stolen his hopes, dreams and happiness. Despite the rebuilding of the town, evil thrived in many forms. Countless bodies had never been recovered. Men, women and children, drowned, trapped at the bottom of the lake…Lost Lake as it was now called. A year later, murder, superstition, possession, and mysterious illnesses engulfed the town and survivors of the flood.

Choking back the painful memories, his fingertips traced his father’s name etched in the tombstone. With the back of his hand, he wiped the blood away from his nose and mouth. He could almost hear his Pa’s deep soothing voice. You’re strong, Quinn. Don’t ever let anyone tell you otherwise. Deep down he hoped his father was right.