Blogger Book Fair: Welcome Back David Kirk!

Blogger Book Fair Features Something a Little Different with David Kirk

Dave is one of my favorite people in the world. In addition to being a fantastic author, he’s also been incredibly supportive and helpful – not to mention encouraging. His novel Particular Stones is one of the best books I read last year. Since he’s already answered my usual questions, I asked Dave to give us some insider information on his forthcoming novel Cornerstones. Because he’s a good guy, he said yes. First, let’s have a refresher on Dave and Particular Stones.

About David J. Kirk

David, an honorable discharged veteran of the United States Navy, earned his master’s degree in personality psychology from Rhode Island College, Providence, Rhode Island, in 1980. He worked as a counselor and a Human Resources Manager. David then became an instructor at Rasmussen College where he taught psychology and sociology for four years.

An avid writer since 16 years old, he enjoyed elective college courses in creative writing, poetry, and drama. He has written over a dozen poems and the short stories “Stranger on the Beach” and “Blue Men.” After completing Particular Stones, he is currently finishing up his most recent novel, In the Big Flood. He also enjoys vegetable gardening, fishing, book discussion, geography, science, and philosophy. He lives with his wife in Indiana; they have two children.

About Particular Stones

Bothered by nightmares regarding his beginnings and trapped in an unacceptable situation, Dan joins the Eagles, a group of similar misfits whose only connection is their assignment to the same wing of their orphanage hall. Together, the boys at first use brute force to defend themselves against a group of bullies harassing them and fellow orphans. After a brief period of popularity for their bravery, opposing interests in the community plot to turn public opinion against them. The Eagles soon realize their strategy is beginning to fail. Facing incarceration and expulsion from school, they pull a strategic retreat into the wilderness where thing are seen more clearly. Realizing a more rational plan, redemption begins to unfold.

Amazon | Martin Sisters Publishing | Smashwords | Barnes and Noble

And Now for the (Other) Good Stuff

Dave is currently putting the finishing touches on his next novel, Cornerstones. I asked him for a sneak peek, and he said “Sure!” Instead of an excerpt, because the man does like his secrets, he sent a special message full of insight, just like the Dave himself. In his words:

I am the author of Particular Stones (Martin Sisters Publishing, 2011) and its sequel Cornerstones. While the books have different plots, they are about the same things. The stories take place in a futuristic, post-apocalyptic world, but readers may not be familiar with the type of apocalypse. There are no flying cars, radiation diseased zombies, or death ray machines about. The dystopia here is an exaggeration of what I feel is wrong with civilization today.

I can almost summarize reviews with “This is a story about some orphan boys who band together to fight the bad guys.” While this is basically true, they about so much more. The Stones stories are about:

Family. And what better way to explore the functions and rolls than with a group of young people without biological parents to show how these are formed.
Spirituality. We appear to be in two camps today: faith and science. Also, purists on each side claim that belief in one excludes belief in the other. I attempt to show that both not only can work together but must.
Personal responsibility. Can we blame our shortcomings solely on genetics?
Champions. In regard to the latest Nobel Prize winner, Miss America, and Super Bowl champs, one of my characters put it best with “why do we celebrate a status that ninety nine percent of the population will never reach?”
Progress. I’m all for it, but what were we doing right before that for some reason we stopped doing?

I invite all types of readers to enjoy the Stones stories, but particularly those close readers. I hope you will sit back and consider my different way of looking at things.

Follow David Kirk…Everywhere

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Win Particular Stones

Dave is giving away Particular Stones on Goodreads. All you have to do is go sign up and keep your fingers crossed!

Blogger Book Fair: Welcome Dan O’Brien

Feb9

Blogger Book Fair Marches On with Dan O’Brien

The next brave, brave man to be featured here on my super-pink site is Dan O’Brien, author of The Path of the Fallen. This super-good sport (and apparently sport-lover, if his blog is evidence) has gamely answered my usual questions and provided an excerpt for your reading pleasure. Take a look and then make use of all the social media links to keep an eye on his future projects. It’s my turn to shut up and Dan’s turn to talk.

About Dan O’Brien

I have been writing novels for over a decade and had a couple published by traditional, small houses. Riding the self-publishing boom, I have four books in print that are available in paperback or e-book format. If you are interested in reading them, I am always open to sending out samples (or PDFs) to those who are interested.

I was born on the east coast and spent most of my life moving around. I recently settled into California where I am a graduate student in Experimental Psychology. I was a fitness trainer and am a lifelong student of martial arts. I write a little bit of everything and have lately been focusing on a few new novels, continuing some series and embarking on a screenplay binge.

Hope to hear from other avid readers and novelists out there.

Interview

As my husband always says, “What’s your book about?”

It is about a young man who learns what it takes to be a hero.

Do you remember the first thing you ever wrote? Can you tell us about it?

I wrote a play for my cousin when I was 6 or 7. I don’t recall what it was about, but I do remember creating little characters on Popsicle sticks.

Do you prefer plaid or stripes?

Plaid.

Was choosing to publish independently something you always wanted, or an option you hadn’t considered before?

I started out in traditional publishing and transitioned to independent publishing because of the flexibility.

Are you working on anything new at the moment?

Always. Sequels, new novels, you name it.

Do you have any rituals before writing? Music or silence? Coffee or tea? Twizzlers or M&Ms?

Music. Tea. Chocolate.

Have you ever based a character on someone you know?

I have an entire novella based on people I know….

What color is your umbrella?

Black.

Who is your favorite author and why?

Hemmingway because, well, he was Hemmingway.

What was the last book you read?

Dance of Dragons by George. R. R. Martin

Do you write about locations you’ve visited, or do you rely on research? Or do you make up entire settings in your head?

A little of both. The Lauren Westlake mysteries are set in places I have lived, but I love to do some research as well for the details.

After the last word is written, then what? Do you have pre-readers and editors who take over? Do you begin query letters immediately?

I generally have some beta readers, a laundry list of marketing points, and the broad strokes of a publishing plan.

What song would be on the soundtrack for your book?

“Numb” by Linkin Park

Where can people find your book?

Wherever books are sold. It is available as an e-book and in print.

Can we read a little excerpt?

You absolutely can.

Leane rose from her seat with a startling quickness. She was upon the inebriated Fredrick with three long steps, her hand slapping him before he could utter another word. The sting drew a rueful look from the childish Fredrick.

“You will never speak of Ry––Fe’rein like that,” snarled Leane; her true words almost revealed. She recovered and drew back. Her hands disappeared into the folds of her layered dress once more. The darkened shawl around her shoulders made it so only her face and hair were visible.

“But you hate him.”

The slap came again, this time with renewed force. Fredrick’s eyes were glassy as a flush faded over his cheeks. He looked at Leane with wide eyes.

Leane watched him with a hawk-like gaze. Her sharp eyes dared him to speak again. “You will do well to remember your words here, Fredrick. Your opinions would be best kept to yourself.” Her breathing slowed as she fought to regain her calm.

Fredrick looked from E’Malkai to the others, and then bowed awkwardly. His arms were plastered along his sides, his voice wavering as he spoke. “Pardon my drunkenness, Leane ilsen. I knew not what I spoke. Please allow me to retire to my personal residence.”

Leane nodded as Fredrick passed. He flashed a beleaguered grimace to each individual who he passed and disappeared out the door.

About The Path of the Fallen

The world is broken. The coming of the Intelligence pushed the remnants of humanity deep into the tundra. What remained was a vast sea of ice and the machine city, Culouth. E’Malkai Armen, descendent of the Fallen, has been a citizen of Culouth his entire life. A bitter betrayal, and the inception of a war that will destroy millions of lives, forces E’Malkai to confront the past and undertake a pilgrimage that is his by birthright. As he travels to the cold tundra of the north, the realm prepares for war. The Path of the Fallen is a lonely and arduous path, but it must be walked for the sake of all mankind.

Follow Dan O’Brien…Everywhere

Blogger Book Fair: Welcome Michael Cargill

Feb9

Blogger Book Fair Continues with Author Michael Cargill

I’m always so thrilled to host writers of the male sort, especially because they look so handsome surrounded by all this pink. Michael Cargill is the first of three manly men unintimidated by my site’s girly colors. He brings us a book of short stories called Shades of Grey, which he promises “…has nothing to do with that grotty erotica trilogy of the same name.” How I love a man with a sense of humor, and Michael has plenty of wit to spare. Sit back and enjoy the interview and two excerpts from his book.

About Michael Cargill

I’m an author who lives in the sunny, green hills of England. As you can see in the photo, I’m mostly bald.

Over the years people had often said that I should write a book so, in mid 2011, I did just that! Anyone wondering which book of mine to read first should start with Shelter from Thunder. ‘Tis short and available for free.

Feedback of any kind is always welcome.

Interview

As my husband always says, “What’s your book about?”

It’s actually a collection of three short stories, but I guess ‘the threat of death’ is an overriding theme running through each of them. Some of the characters are aware of the threat, some of them see it as just part of their lives, whilst others have no idea it is even there.

Do you remember the first thing you ever wrote? Can you tell us about it?

I vaguely remember writing a story in school when I was about ten years old. I don’t remember much about it, but for some reason she was having a really bad day where she kept forgetting her keys and so had to spend a lot of time on the bus trying to find where she left them.

Do you prefer plaid or stripes?

Ha! I had to look up what ‘plaid’ was, as we refer to it as being ‘checked’ over her in Britain Land.

I reckon I would go for stripes, especially if they were the slimming kind. After all, everyone likes a good pin-striped suit (unless you sell checked suits, of course.)

Was choosing to publish independently something you always wanted, or an option you hadn’t considered before?

Erm, it was more that it was just about the only option available to me! Clicking that ‘go live’ button the first time was a nerve wracking experience, and the thought of sitting through umpteen bajillion meetings with a publisher was far too intimidating for my feeble mind.

Are you working on anything new at the moment?

Yes! It’s a YA tragedy story, and I’m in the editing stages as we speak. I’m at that point where I’m utterly sick of the bloody thing, and can’t wait until I’m finally free of it!

Do you have any rituals before writing? Music or silence? Coffee or tea? Twizzlers or M&Ms?

Not really. I have to close my browser window down, otherwise I get distracted too easily. The tea or coffee question ultimately rests on which one is closest at the time.

Have you ever based a character on someone you know?

Yes, several in fact, though not usually the main character. Most of the time they’ll just have parts of that person’s personality, and even then it’s something I only really think about when I’m trying to think of a name for them.

What color is your umbrella?

I don’t have one, they’re annoying and I just end up borrowing other people’s. I guess I’m like those ‘social smokers’ who steal everyone else’s cigarettes when they go to the pub.

Who is your favorite author and why?

Stephen King, ‘cos his stories are bloody marvelous. It’s hard to say exactly why, but the most memorable aspects of his stories tend to be the characters. If you get those right, then everything else tends to slip into place.

What was the last book you read?

Just this morning I finished reading Mockingjay, the final book in The Hunger Games trilogy. I thought it was the worst of the lot.

Do you write about locations you’ve visited, or do you rely on research? Or do you make up entire settings in your head?

A bit of a mixture to be honest. I’ll imagine somewhere familiar, like a friend’s back garden, but then bosh in an extra detail such as a bomb crater, dragon, or a headless corpse, as and when it is required.

The Internet makes research very quick and easy for things like historical fiction.

After the last word is written, then what? Do you have pre-readers and editors who take over? Do you begin query letters immediately?

Once I’ve finished, I’ll take a few days break to stop myself slitting my wrists. Then I’ll do a pass of editing, and try to stop myself slitting my wrists. Then I’ll do a couple more passes of editing, whilst again stopping myself from slitting my wrists.

Then I send it off to some proof readers and spend the next week or so clenching my buttock in nervous anticipation whilst also fighting off the temptation to slit my wrists.

What song would be on the soundtrack for your book?

Hmmm. Firestarter by The Prodigy most likely.

Where can people find your book?

Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Sony store, and Smashwords!

Can we read a little excerpt?

No, it’s a secret.

Oh, okay then. Here are excerpts from the first two stories in the collection:

Talking of grunting, that is exactly what I did when I grabbed the edge of the mattress and yanked it out from underneath my wife and neighbour’s naked bodies. They both fell off the bed, and onto the floor, in a tangled mess of arms and legs, of tits and testicles. She must have got elbowed or something because her nose was bleeding. She later blamed that nosebleed on me, which was nothing short of outrageous and hilarious. I kindly offered to give her another one.

***

Dazed and bewildered, James staggered out from under the pile of earth. For a moment he couldn’t even breathe, and he spat out as much of the mud as he could. Artillery shells whooshed over his head and explosions filled the world. He felt completely disorientated and everywhere he looked, he saw the same thing. Columns of mud and earth were shooting up into the air, and it was like running through a forest of living trees. Someone grabbed him and helped him stumble his way back to the safety of the trench. They passed another soldier lying motionless on the ground, his left leg missing completely. James was still too stunned to properly acknowledge this grim sight, but he would later look back on that moment as his first proper exposure to the cruelties of war.

About Shades of Grey

John is not a very nice man. He works for the government. So who has tied him to a chair and what do they want? James is a British soldier during WWII. Tom is a young boy with a terrible secret

Three stories. Three very different people. All of them battling to survive.

Follow Michael Cargill…Everywhere

Blogger Book Fair: Welcome Kimberly Gould

Feb8

Blogger Book Fair Continues with Kimberly Gould, Fellow Martin Sisters Publishing Author

I was lucky enough to be one of the first readers of Kimberly’s debut novel, Cargon: Honour & Privilege, a Young Adult dystopian novel unlike any other out there. Cargon, a game where social status is gambled away like pennies, is the central feature of the book, but the real star is her heroine. She’s just released the follow-up Cargon: Duty & Sacrifice, and I can’t wait to see what happens to Eve.

Kimberly gamely answered my usual questions, so take a moment to meet and greet, and then enjoy the excerpt.

About Kimberly Gould

Oldest of three girls, raised in a small city surrounded by family, Kimberly was well acquainted with her imagination and started writing novellas in High School. She took a break while attending University, but returned to it soon after the birth of her daughter late in 2006. She has been married for 12 years, a mother for 5 and a published author for 1. She is looking forward to her future releases and new ideas.

Interview

As my husband always says, “What’s your book about?”

A servant turned princess who is enlightening a second age.

Was choosing to publish independently something you always wanted, or an option you hadn’t considered before?

I started out looking for an agent the traditional way. A writing friend suggested an indie publisher and they were my first yes.

Are you working on anything new at the moment?

I have an erotic penname and most of my WIP are part of her body. I am brewing a third Cargon book and have two other YA manuscripts in various states of completion.

Have you ever based a character on someone you know?

Not more than looks. George looks like my Dad, Adam looks like my cousin, things like that.

What color is your umbrella?

Black.

Who is your favorite character and why?

Bianca is probably my favourite character. She’s smart and fun at the same time. She’s a mother, but she doesn’t smother. She is a leader, but she’s willing to be proven wrong.

What was the last book you read?

A Memory of Light, the last Wheel of Time book.

Do you write about locations you’ve visited, or do you rely on research? Or do you make up entire settings in your head?

I like making places up, part of the reason I write fantasy. Other than that, I usually write about places I’ve never visited, but that I imagine as ‘cities’ and therefore, at the core, similar to where I live. They all have neighbourhoods and shopping districts, a downtown. If I need particulars, Google maps is usually all I need.

After the last word is written, then what? Do you have pre-readers and editors who take over? Do you begin query letters immediately?

The first book, I didn’t have pre-reader, and when the edits came back with very small suggestions, I thought that was good. Upon rereading my first manuscript, however, I wish I’d gotten more people to read it. Now I have everything read AT LEAST twice before submitting. Usually I can find 3-5 people to pre-read. So far, almost everything comes back with superficial edits.

What song would be on the soundtrack for your book?

Something orchestral, with a good bit of winds to give it a haunting feeling, like you can see the ghosts of the fall waiting to be rediscovered.

Where can people find your book?

Martin Sisters Publishing has links to all the different formats, so it is easiest to go there. There is a link to Honour and Privilege on that page as well. Here is the link for Thickness of Blood (not YA).

Can we read a little excerpt?

Of course:

Her meeting with Vanto Albert was to discuss her plans to travel to Augustia and assist the neighbour with an internal conflict. Trade with Augustia had failed in recent months when the common class had risen up against their elite. The lapse in trade had disrupted Fontive although some goods were still coming through—only as much as the commoners allowed. The Ambassadorial Vanto continued to encourage her to make the trip.

“Suggesting raising commoners to the elite should come from a person of high standing, a Vanto at the least. Also, I believe you will be perfectly equipped to deal with any questions regarding cross-class relations, don’t you?”

Eve had to chuckle at her uncle, Bianca’s brother in law. As the first and only servant to be raised to the elite, it did make sense to send Eve. “I expect I am,” she agreed. By playing and winning Cargon, the game ranking elite in Fontive, Eve had made the unprecedented shift.

“Well, let’s prepare you for it then.” Albert scratched at his short brown beard for a moment. “Eric is High One in Augustia, with his wife, Rosa, as second.” He presented her with a list of the highest elite and their portfolios, which they reviewed together.

“Ducat and Ducati are called Ambo and Amba in Augustia,” Albert explained. “Clarence,” Fontive’s Ducat of Augustia, “will of course answer to both, but you would confuse others there.”

Eve nodded, thinking she would most likely confuse herself. She should be able to mingle with the Vanto and Vinca, avoiding any misnomers. She read the list over again but was interrupted when Albert began discussing some of the differences between the cultures of the two kingdoms. “They do not rank themselves by Cargon.”

“What?” Her voice seemed to squeak in her own over-sensitive ears, making her cringe. Cargon was rule, it was law, it was…

“They pass rank through heredity, as we do when no one wagers,” Albert explained, placing a hand on her shoulder. She must seem very disturbed for him to touch her. Physical contact was strictly proscribed among the elite in Fontive.

Albert pulled his hand back, using the action for another example. “They are also less reserved about contact. You may see open displays of affection.” He said it with distaste, but Eve merely nodded. Although she had seen none since being raised, servants showed affection quite often. It wasn’t something that bothered her as it would one born into the elite.

“That isn’t a problem for me,” she explained. “Servants show affection when they aren’t on duty.”

About Cargon: Duty & Sacrifice

In a post-apocalyptic world, Eve has discovered power of more than one nature. In Honour and Privilege, Eve became heir to the throne. In Duty and Sacrifice, she explores and defines the power of the elite. At the same time, electricity is being harnessed for the first time in centuries, providing the first glimpse into the ancient people who left the world as it exists. The horror of this revelation could shake their society as much or more than a servant becoming monarch.

Follow Kimberly Gould…Everywhere

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Win the Book

You know the drill. Follow the Rafflecopter link and do what it says – a Rafflecopter giveaway

Check Out Other Kimberly Gould Titles

Blogger Book Fair: Welcome Allison Blanchard!

Feb8

Introducing Fellow Martin Sisters Publishing Author Allison Blanchard for Blogger Book Fair

I’m so excited to introduce Allison Blanchard of Martin Sisters Publishing and her book, Forget Me Not. She’s been kind enough to answer my usual questions with her wit, and I know you’ll love meeting her. After answering my usual questions, some silly and some serious, Allison provided an excerpt from her book. Enjoy!

About Allison Blanchard

Allison Blanchard is currently a student at Georgia College and State University in Milledgeville, Georgia where she is pursuing her bachelor degrees in English Creative Writing and French. She is an active sister in Sigma Alpha Omega where she continues to grow as a woman in Christ. She writes everyday, drinks too much coffee, and is looking forward to the next adventure her characters will take her.

Interview

As my husband always says, “What’s your book about?”

Forget Me Not is a unique love story that digs at the deeper questions of life & death, illusion & reality, with an interwoven thread of Native American culture and legends.

Do you remember the first thing you ever wrote? Can you tell us about it?

I’m pretty sure it was a badly written poem when I was in middle school. Not the deepest and most meaningful piece of literary merit.

Do you prefer plaid or stripes?

Plaid, but damask is my FAVORITE pattern!

Was choosing to publish independently something you always wanted, or an option you hadn’t considered before?

It sort of just happened. I like the freedom my publisher gave me. It really felt like I was apart of a family, not just some client.

Are you working on anything new at the moment?

The project I am working on now is the second book in the Forget Me Not Trilogy, Morning Glory. It picks up where Forget Me Not left off. There are new characters, new twists and turns, but it is definitely a little darker than the first. SPOILER ALERT: There are some character deaths. It’s a pretty intense read.

Do you have any rituals before writing? Music or silence? Coffee or tea? Twizzlers or M&Ms?

COFFEE! And some good music! My all time favorite bands are The Civil Wars and Paramore!

Have you ever based a character on someone you know?

Um, guilty. Usually, the person might not want to know who they inspired. It’s never usually good. But there are a few good characters in my current project who were inspired by some pretty awesome people I know.

What color is your umbrella?

It is black and white hounds tooth!

Who is your favorite author and why?

Marianne Curley! She inspired me to not only read more, but to become a writer. Her beautiful books got me through a really tough time in my life. I am forever grateful to her.

What was the last book you read?

The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath.

Do you write about locations you’ve visited, or do you rely on research? Or do you make up entire settings in your head?

I do a bit of both. For Forget Me Not, I had to do A LOT of research. I had never been to Great Falls, MT, but I was excited to write about a new place.

After the last word is written, then what? Do you have pre-readers and editors who take over? Do you begin query letters immediately?

Usually there is a victory dance which may or may not include crumping. I then go back and read through and edit like a crazy woman. Then there are my trusty pre-readers (Thanks Mom and Courtney!), then comes the query letter process. The dancing is my favorite part.

What song would be on the soundtrack for your book?

“Forget Me Not” and “I’ve Got This Friend,” both by The Civil Wars.

Where can people find your book?

Here are the links to buy my book!

Amazon (US) | Amazon (UK) | Barnes & Noble | Smashwords | Paperback

Can we read a little excerpt?

Chapter One

I almost lost my breath when he walked through the door. Here, in the small town of Great Falls, Montana stood an angel in the front of my geometry class. His very presence gave the whitewashed room a certain glow. His skin was a dark, rusty copper. His onyx hair stopped at his neck, curled, and hung close to his face. I finally looked into his clear, blue eyes, but found them looking down to his feet. He was standing awkwardly at the front of the class, never meeting anyone’s eye as Mr. Holman read his note from the office. He was very tall, about 6’2”, with long legs that couldn’t seem to stay still as he swayed side to side.

Something about him caught my attention the moment he walked through the door. Like some magnetic pull. Nothing I could possibly explain, not even to myself. He looked strong, but seemed so unsure, nervous. But that wasn’t the only reason it took so much self-control to look away.

It couldn’t be that he was from the Indian reservation. Plenty of students had transferred from the reservation school. Although, most of them had transferred back for one reason or another. I never cared enough to take much notice.

I’ve never really taken much notice to any of the other students that attended my high school for that matter. That might be one of the reasons no one took any notice of me, either.

I was never the most social person in my grade. I didn’t see the point of befriending people when in two years we would lose all contact because we were thousands of miles away trying to figure out what we were going to do with our lives. It seemed kind of pointless.

I heard Mr. Holman mutter something about finding a seat. The beautiful boy kept silent and sat down quickly, avoiding eye contact with everyone.

The thought flew across my mind about trying to befriend him, showing him around the school. But the thought left as quickly as it came. There was no way I could show him, whoever he was, around. I barely had any confidence left to take myself to class. And that was thanks to Lily.

One of my first, and very few, friends was Lily Shelton. We had been best friends all the way through middle school. But when we started high school, Lily changed. Suddenly, boys and the desire to be accepted were more important than me, than our friendship. Ever since our friendship crumbled into oblivion, I have kept to myself. Out of both pride and self-preservation.

I glanced to my left, simply curious to see how he was holding up. He turned at the same moment and our eyes locked. I instantly looked away, completely mortified, keeping my eyes glued to either the board or my book. However, I could not shake the feeling that he was still staring.

Thankfully, the bell rang. I stood up, shoving my books into my bag. I began to leave the room when a deep, rustic voice stopped me.

“Excuse me, but can you tell me where I can find room 102?”

I looked over my shoulder, and time seemed to stand still.

“Uh, it’s down the hall,” I replied awkwardly, vaguely pointing out the door.

“I could show you! I know this school like the back of my hand!” Interrupted Sasha, her fire red hair framing her striking, magazine worthy face.

I saw the triumph in her eyes and cringed internally. There was no denying she was beautiful.

I decided to end my embarrassment and leave the room. Sasha would show the new boy around. I was sure he had already forgotten the small, average girl he had asked where to find his next class.

Once I made it to the hallway, I could finally take a deep breath and steady my pulse. I wasn’t sure why this particular boy was suddenly making me feel and act the way I was. The boy and this strange connection to him was unfamiliar territory. And being the coward I was, I was going to run from change. Not allow it to grow or continue to have any more influence on my life. So all I had to do was avoid him like the plague and life would hopefully return to normal. It wasn’t too hard to avoid people, especially when half the school didn’t even know your name. I was almost to my history room when I felt a warm hand grab my shoulder.

About Forget Me Not

Cole Dyami is a mysterious boy with a dangerous secret. Adeline Jasely is a typical teenage girl. Living in the seemingly normal small town of Great Falls Montana, Adeline is confronted with everyday teenage problems by a not so normal beautiful boy. As Adeline and Cole’s worlds collide, the line between illusion and reality is blurred. According to a tribal legend, Adeline and Cole are no longer two friends, but two pieces in a complicated mystery. Suddenly, Adeline finds herself in a world she never knew existed. Along side Cole, she attempts to unravel the mysteries of the small Chippewa tribe in order to not only find out who Cole Dyami truly is, but who she is as well. As Cole and Adeline begin to uncover the secrets behind the legends of the Chippewa tribe, illusion slowly unravels into reality and friendship gradually melts into a mutual need of survival.

Follow Allison Blanchard…Everywhere

Win the Book

Just follow the Rafflecopter link, do what the thing tells you for multiple entries, and then cross your fingers!

Blogger Book Fair: Welcome Sydney Logan!

Feb7

Blogger Book Fair Kicks Off with Contemporary Romance Author Sydney Logan

I’ve been dying to host Sydney Logan, but we’re both busy girls. Thank goodness for Blogger Book Fair so I had a reason to buckle down and drag her over for a visit. Sydney’s book, Lessons Learned, is one of the best I’ve read in years. The story, while certainly a compelling (and hot) romance, focuses on timely issues for a well-rounded tale of love on every level. I highly recommend the book to anyone who loves romance with a deeper message.

About Sydney Logan

Sydney Logan holds a Master’s degree in Elementary Education and makes her home in the hills of East Tennessee. With the 2012 release of her first novel, Lessons Learned, she made the transition from bookworm to author. She has a very unhealthy obsession with music, and her iPod is filled with everything from Johnny Cash to Eminem. When she isn’t reading or writing, she enjoys playing piano and relaxing on her front porch with her wonderful husband and their very spoiled cat.

Interview

As I always do, I sent Sydney my usual questions, and she was kind enough to answer even the silliest. Take a moment to get to know her, and enjoy the excerpt of Lessons Learned.

As my husband always says, “What’s your book about?”

Lessons Learned is about a high school teacher named Sarah Bray. In the prologue (which you’ll read below), she witnesses a traumatic event at her school. This traumatizes her and sends her running back to her hometown of Sycamore Falls. It is a small, tight-knit, conservative (fictional) community in the mountains of Tennessee. She reconnects with old friends and makes a new one, in the form of Lucas Miller. He has just transferred to Sycamore Falls from a school in NYC. They begin teaching at Sarah’s old high school, and over time, their friendship turns into love. One of Sarah’s students becomes a victim of bullying, and she finds herself helping him face his demons, as well as some of her own.

Do you remember the first thing you ever wrote? Can you tell us about it?

I don’t recall the first thing I ever wrote. I’ve written poems and songs all my life. I do remember writing a poem in high school about my upcoming graduation, and it brought my teacher to tears.

Do you prefer plaid or stripes?

Plaid. Stripes are not attractive on me!

Was choosing to publish independently something you always wanted, or an option you hadn’t considered before?

I hadn’t considered publishing at all until a small, independent publisher approached me. One of the editors had read my online stories and asked if I wanted to submit something original. That’s how Lessons Learned came to be.

Are you working on anything new at the moment?

I am editing my second novel, Mountain Charm, and starting on my third book.

Do you have any rituals before writing? Music or silence? Coffee or tea? Twizzlers or M&Ms?

Instrumental music is fine, but I can’t listen to anything with lyrics when I write or edit. I do have to be careful with the music because it can influence my writing.

Have you ever based a character on someone you know?

I use little snippets of people in most of my characters. I tell people that Lucas in Lessons Learned is very much my husband, and they are amazed. Yes, girls, good guys do exist! There is a lot of me in Sarah. The little nods to music and 80s movies – that’s all me.

What color is your umbrella?

Blue and white

Who is your favorite author and why?

Nicholas Sparks, because the man has never failed to write something that brought me to tears. That’s what I want to do (in the nicest way possible, of course.)

What was the last book you read?

On Dublin Street by Samantha Young

Do you write about locations you’ve visited, or do you rely on research? Or do you make up entire settings in your head?

My first novels are all set in fictional towns in the Appalachian Mountains. I live in a very rural town in East Tennessee, so describing the setting is easy. I take little pieces of surrounding communities to create the town.

After the last word is written, then what? Do you have pre-readers and editors who take over? Do you begin query letters immediately?

Early in the process, I have to submit my first three chapters and a synopsis to my publisher. They then decide if they’re interested. Once I get the go ahead, I finish writing the story. I have pre-readers (trusted and honest friends) who read my story and offer valuable advice. Then, it is submitted to my publisher and to my editing team. I haven’t had to send out query letters. My publisher has always been happy with whatever I submit, thank goodness.

What song would be on the soundtrack for your book?

I actually have a complete playlist on my website, but probably Miranda Lambert’s “The House That Built Me.”

Where can people find your book?

http://www.sydneylogan.com/2012/11/purchasing-links.html

Can we read a little excerpt?

Prologue

Voices roar through the high school cafeteria while students navigate their way to the tables. The cliques are easily spotted: the jocks, the geeks, the beauty queens, the slackers.

Where will he sit today?

Despite the fact he’s a handsome and impeccably dressed young man, he fades into the background. Knowing it’s pointless, the girls don’t bother to look his way, and the guys deliberately avoid his eyes.

He grips his tray tightly and heads toward the corner table with the rest of the outcasts. They nod hello, but that’s the end of any real attempt at conversation. It’s an unspoken rule of sorts. This is their refuge—a tiny bit of sanctuary in the hell that is public high school—and they’re content to sit in peace.

He takes a seat, and I can see the exhaustion on his face. It’s not a weariness that comes from too many sleepless nights. This is a bone-tired fatigue no seventeen-year-old kid should ever feel.

He’s giving in.

Giving up.

In my peripheral vision, I see a senior stalk into the cafeteria. He’s tall, with deep brown eyes and jet-black hair that won’t stay in place. He’s good looking, popular, and a little conceited, thanks to his father’s wealth and status.

He has a reputation to uphold.

Rumors to squash.

A score to settle.

He pulls the silver gun out of his jacket pocket. Amid the chaos, no one notices.

I notice.

I try to run, but I’m frozen in place.

I try to scream, but there’s no sound.

The first shot rings out, and suddenly, everyone’s on the cold tile.

Tears, prayers, screams.

Another shot, and for some reason, I’m the only one who can’t move. Who can’t scream. Who can’t do anything but watch as the young man’s body slumps over his tray.

Finally, I find my voice and scream his name.

About Lessons Learned

A young girl needs to spread her wings, but a young woman needs roots.

English teacher Sarah Bray never thought she’d return to Sycamore Falls, but a traumatic event at her inner-city school leaves her desperate for the sanctuary of home. By returning to her roots, an older and wiser Sarah hopes to deal with the demons of her present and confront the ghosts of her past.

She discovers a kindred spirit in Lucas Miller, a teacher from New York with demons of his own. As the newest faculty members at Sycamore High School, they quickly become friends – bonding through Lucas’s culture shock and their mutual desire to build new lives. When they open their wounded hearts to each other, their friendship effortlessly evolves into romance.

Their love is put to the test when Matt, the quarterback of the football team, shares his deepest secret with Sarah. When the conservative community finds out, Sarah and Lucas – along with the town of Sycamore Falls – are schooled in the lessons of acceptance, tolerance, and love.

Follow Sydney Logan…Everywhere

Giveaway

You can win a prize pack with Lessons Learned and an Applebee’s gift card. Click the Rafflecopter link, follow the instructions, and cross your fingers!

Welcome to THE NEXT BIG THING BLOG HOP!

Jan30

Discover a New Sports Romance

What is a blog hop? It’s a way for readers to discover new authors. With bookstores closing and publishers not promoting new authors as much, blog hops are a way to introduce readers to authors they may not see in the local bookstore.

The Next Big Thing Blog Hop is a great chance to find many new authors. Here you’ll find information about what I’m working on now – FINAL SCORE. Also, see links after the questions and answers and find five other authors you might like to check out.

I’d like to thank fellow author LISA HANNAH WELLS for tagging me to participate. Click the link below to find out about her latest book BE STILL MY LOVER’S HEART

In this particular hop, my fellow authors and I, in our respective blogs, have answered 10 questions where you get to learn about our current work in progress as well as some insights into our process, from characters and inspirations to plotting and cover decisions. I hope you enjoy!

Please feel free to comment and share your thoughts and questions. Here is my Next Big Thing!

What is the working title of your book?

Final Score

Where did the idea come from for the book?

After attending a Nashville Predators game, Jen had an idea about a hockey player and a chef. I’d been talking about writing a story with a hockey hero – one of my favorites – and we thought, why not? Since I know nothing about cooking (and Jen does), and Jen knows nothing about hockey (and boy, do I), it was pretty easy to delegate writing responsibility. Many fun hours of “what if…” later, we had ourselves a story.

What genre does your book come under?

Contemporary romance, though we’re not averse to the sports romance and hockey romance labels.

Which actors would you choose to play your characters in a movie rendition?

We’ve always envisioned model Ralf Baumgarten for Brody and actress Sarah Drew from Grey’s Anatomy for Anna.

What is the one-sentence synopsis of your book?

When NHL bad boy Brody Clark gets checked by pretty redheaded chef Anna Bloom, his free agent days just might be over.

Is your book self-published, published by an independent publisher, or represented by an agency?

FINAL SCORE is a work in progress, in the last stages of self-editing before the manuscript is ready for submission, but Jen currently has YA novels published with a small press, and Melissa has a paranormal romance published and another contracted with another small press.

How long did it take you to write the first draft of your manuscript?

The first rough draft took approximately nine months to write, and we’re still going through edits!

What other books would you compare this story to within your genre?

This is comparable to hockey sport romances by Deirdre Martin and Rachel Gibson, although there are other great writers taking on hockey players as heroes—and even heroines!

Who or what inspired you to write this book?

Live hockey games, hockey players, and the excitement they generate. Read the story, go to a game. You won’t regret it!

What else about your book might pique the reader’s interest?

Conditioned athletes, celebrity, paparazzi, travel. Hockey. Attraction and tension. Set goals, reassessed priorities. Good food, good friends, good times between consenting adults.

Between the two of us, we have intimate knowledge of both the restaurant business and hockey players, so hopefully that adds a fun depth to the story!

Below you will find authors who will be joining me by blog next Wednesday. Be sure to bookmark and add them to your calendars for updates on WIPs and New Releases! Happy Writing and Reading!

Sandi Layne

A Moment with RJ Burroughs

Apr13

RJ Burroughs is one of the newest members of the Martin Sisters Publishing family. His book, The Boys of 58, is a coming of age story told with RJ’s unique humor and insight. No matter when you were a kid or what kind of trouble you got yourself into, you’ll see a bit of yourself in The Boys of 58.

RJ was nice enough to answer my usual questions, and he even gave extra attention to those originally designed with women in mind. He’s a good sport, and his answers will make you laugh. I hope you’ll take a few minutes to get to know him better, and then head over to one of the many places The Boys of 58 is available to take a look.

As my husband always says, “What’s your book about?”

The Boys of 58 is about 5 twelve-year-old boys growing up in the much slower time of 1958–all the trouble they seem to get into and the way they get out of trouble. It’s not one story, but a combination of several stories. When I wrote this novel, I did my best to make each page different and funny. I tried to put a little something in it for everyone–if you can please everyone that is. From a fainting goat to the zombie, or the boy and girl killed fifty-years before the boys were born. A person would be hard pressed to read The Boys and not laugh out loud several times.

Do you remember the first thing you ever wrote? Can you tell us about it?

That would be to a girl named Rita in the 3rd grade. Rita was the fastest runner in our elementary school, and she was going to represent our school in the 100-yard dash at the city-wide elementary track meet. I thought Rita was about the prettiest girl I had ever seen. Of course, I hadn’t seen all that many girls, living on a farm and being nine years old.

I saw a senior boy and girl kissing at the Big Burger one afternoon when my uncle took me to get a cherry limeade. The look on that senior boy’s face after he finished with that kiss was something I had never experienced before–kind of like the look people get today when OU beats Texas. I though kissing must be something special, so being who I am, I decided the only way to find out would be to give it a try. That’s when I wrote Rita a one-page note expressing my desire to find out what it feels like to kiss a girl.

She wrote me back, stating if I could catch her at recess she would let me kiss her.

Well, as I said before, she was fast–darn fast. I spent almost all of the fifteen minutes chasing that girl, and I finally trapped her between the monkey bars and the old slide. I will give her this–she was a girl of her word. She let me kiss her square on the mouth just like that senior boy. However, I didn’t have that look he had when I finished. It was more like the look people get when Texas beats OU. From that day on, I gave up on girls for good–or until I first saw Pam in her cheerleader outfit in junior high school a few years later.

Do you prefer plaid or stripes?

Well, that is a tough question for me. The only thing I can say is, I don’t have a clue. I guess if Sally Field was wearing a long plaid dress or a pair of shorts with stripes on them, I would have to say stripes. On the other hand, if Sally Field was wearing a long dress with stripes on it or a pair of plaid shorts, I would have to go with plaid. To me, it doesn’t matter the material or the color, but what a person does with it.

Was choosing to publish independently something you always wanted, or an option you hadn’t considered before? (Independently being defined here as NOT one of the Big Six.)

I have written a lot of different stories in the past and tried several times (several times being a heck of a lot) to find an agent and or publisher. I don’t know for sure if my material was ever looked at, much less read. After hundreds of attempts, I just stopped trying. I have a lot of family members and friends that enjoy what I write, be it horror, sci fi, mystery, or humor, so I wrote just for the enjoyment of writing and the pleasure my friends got out of it.

After I finished writing The Boys of 58, I sent out several queries to agents/publishers. Still nothing. I just happened to be checking the spam on my computer when I found an answer from Martin Sisters. To make a long story short, they loved the novel, and now it’s in print.

If it hadn’t been for the Sisters I would still be writing for family and friends. Still, it is hard to get the word out about a new book, but I just keep plugging along in hopes that people who do read it enjoy it and pass the word along.

Are you working on anything new at the moment?

Yes, I am just about finished with The Boys of 59, the sequel to The Boys of 58. I won’t be sending it off until The Boys of 58 has been out awhile. I am also about 3/4th finished with a mystery novel called Marriage, as well as a fiction novel about how the names of creeks in Oklahoma came about. I have several others planned as well.

Do you have any rituals before writing? Music or silence? Coffee or tea? Twizzlers or M&Ms?

No, I just write when I feel like it–just walk into my office, sit down, and write. I always carry a small pad with me, just in case I happen to think of something I want to write about or something I would like to add to a novel. Then when I get to the computer, I take out the pad. Otherwise I would forget my thoughts. This is something I believe all authors should do, as I can’t ever remember all the things I have thought of and forgotten before I could get to the computer.

The only other ritual that helps me write is when my wife gets upset with me about something or she happens to cook liver. Either one of those send me to my office quick.

Have you ever based a character on someone you know?

No, I haven’t based any characters on anyone I know. I have used the names of some of my friends, however. As for places, yes. The Boys of 58 takes place in a small Oklahoma town called Verden, a little town my grandmother lived in and where I attended the second and third grade.

In The Boys of 58, one of the boy’s names is Sonny, and my nickname is Sonny. Now I kind of wish I had given Sonny a different name, as people seem to think the story is about me, and it is not. It is pure fiction.

The grandmother in the story does have some of the traits of my grandmother. The snuff and flyswatter came from her.

I enjoy making up the last names myself.

What color is your umbrella?

Jen, I don’t have an umbrella. If I did, I am sure the wind in Oklahoma would be more than happy to take it away from me. Being a young lady as you are, I am sure you have no idea what runs through a man’s head about being macho. It is something we men strive to be. I can’t speak for all men, but it seems kind of hard to run into Wal-Mart, or Rexall Drugs holding an umbrella and still feel macho. Ok, if I had an umbrella, it would have Sooners on it.

Who is your favorite author and why?

I guess that would have to be Stephen King. I wrote a book called Unholy Ground a few years ago. A lot of the people that read it thought it was something from Stephen King. I have a little part in The Boys of 58 about a boy and girl that were murdered fifty years before the boys were born. The head of the young girl was never found. As I said before, I tried to put a little something in it for everyone. By no means is The Boys a horror novel or is the murder part scary; it’s all humor.

As for what I like about Stephen King: when you read his novels, there is always a part a person can relate to in it. Some of it is even funny. He is very different from me, however. He taught English; I flunked English. He is from the north (Maine); I am from the southwest (Oklahoma.) If I had to bet, I would say his wife doesn’t cook liver mine does. I think he talks funny, but I am sure if he were to hear me talk, he would think the same thing about me. The only thing we have in common is he has been in a lot of movies same as myself. The only difference is that he was acting, and I was in a chair eating popcorn with butter and drinking a small coke.

What was the last book you read?

That would be Huckleberry Finn. I have read it several times. I enjoy Mark Twain’s writing. That just happens to be the last one I read. However, I am waiting on Side Effects to get here. You know about Side Effects, don’t you?

Do you write about locations you’ve visited, or do you rely on research? Or do you make up entire settings in your head?

As I said before, I used Verden from my childhood. However, I make up 99% of the locations in my head. That way, if I need a fire station down the block or a Dairy Queen across the street from something, I can always add it in. Again, I like to make things up in my head. As I write about it, I make notes. If I didn’t, I would end up with a fire station on each block and four or five Dairy Queens in the same town.

After the last word is written, then what? Do you have pre-readers and editors who take over? Do you begin query letters immediately?

I really don’t do anything other than send it to my editor. I type so fast (or at least I use the excuse of typing so fast) that I have to have someone edit it. If it hadn’t been for sports and girls in school, I might not have passed. My spelling leaves something to be desired.

After the military, I did try to go to college, but it was in the 70s and the students were all protesting Vietnam. Since I was ex-military, I was given a cold shoulder by most. I dropped out and went into the pipeline field–something I still do to this day.

So yes, as soon as I finish a story, it’s off to my editor.

What song would be on the soundtrack for your book?

Red River Valley by Stevie Nicks. Why, I have no clue, other than I like the fire out of that song. I guess that is the southwest coming out of me.

Where can people find your book?

Amazon, Amazon Kindle, Smashwords, Barnes and Noble, Martin Sisters Publishing, or it can be ordered at any bookstore.

Can we read a little excerpt?

When I reached the store, I saw Sally Majors coming out carrying a large sack of groceries. That wouldn’t have been much of an inspiration before, but Sally had been the talk of the town a few months back. She ran off with the high-school French teacher and got married. She was seventeen and Mr. Baxter was thirty-seven. That was about the biggest thing since the Bible salesman came to town and stole the cash box from the Baptist Church. Seeing Sally’s large stomach that day, I just knew she was going to have a baby.

She wasn’t pregnant, mind you, saying that word was another no-no. Sally was either in the family way, with child, or just going to have a baby. Pregnant was only used for bad girls that lived out of our little town or by the doctor.

Seeing her ‘in the family way’ gave me the perfect idea for paying Miss Mary Sue Bailey back. It came to me in such a flash I forgot all about the Garrett Snuff. I turned on my heels and, in a dead run, started for Charlie’s house. About halfway there I remembered the snuff and thoughts of flyswatters and yardsticks came to mind, but there was no turning back now, and the respect I’d get from the guys was worth more than just a couple licks.

Reaching Charlie’s house, I banged on the door till the usual greeting came.

“Stop that banging, you little fart,” Charlie’s mom said.

Everyone was a fart to her. Dumb fart. Old fart. Young fart. Stupid fart. Young, no-account fart. That was my favorite.

“Is Charlie home, Mrs. Shaffer?”

“Yes, the little, no-account fart is here,” she said, turning to fetch her son who was already headed up behind her.

“What you want, fart-head?” he asked, sidestepping the slap he knew would be coming his way.

The fart word was used a lot in his house, but only from his mother. When she heard Charlie or one of us use it, you could bet a slap across the top of your head was soon to follow.

“Have the guys meet at the depot after supper tonight. I think I know a way we can pay Mary Sue back for all the trash she’s been spreading about us.”

“What you thinking?”

For a second, I was going to tell him, but when you get an idea like that, you can’t just waste it; you got to tell everyone at once so they can all talk about how brilliant it was.

“Just get the guys together, Charlie.”

Be sure to leave a few words for RJ. You can also visit his website and “like” The Boys on Facebook.

A Moment with Elizabeth Hunter

Mar21

Twitter’s amazing, isn’t it? I get some of the best replies to my silliest comments. Some of those replies lead to hilarious conversation or, in the case of Martha Bourke, some sympathetic hand-holding. With Elizabeth Hunter, the discussion was David Gandy and his nose. I don’t even know who David Gandy is, but I did look him up. If I were going to talk about any part of him at all, it wouldn’t be his nose. That’s all beside the point. The point is that I asked Elizabeth to answer my usual questions for the site, and she agreed! After the silly conversation we’d had, I couldn’t help but get excited about her potential answers. She didn’t disappoint, either. Without further ridiculousness from me, I present to you Elizabeth Hunter, the author of the Elemental Mysteries series.

Elizabeth Hunter is the author of the Elemental Mysteries Series. She is a graduate of the University of Houston Honors College in the Department of English (Linguistics) and a former English teacher.

A native of Central California, she currently lives in Southern California with her husband, son, and an assortment of dogs. She enjoys reading, writing, travel, and bowling (despite the fact that she’s not very good at it.) Someday, she plans to learn how to scuba dive. And maybe hang-glide. But that looks like a lot of running.

As my husband always says, “What’s your book about?”

My book series, The Elemental Mysteries, is a paranormal romance that dives into a mystery about lost libraries and long-buried secrets. In the first book, A Hidden Fire, Giovanni Vecchio, my main character, is a very “other” Italian book collector, and he’s helped by Beatrice De Novo, a student librarian at the university where he’s researching.The two main characters may start out in very different places, but as the story progresses, they find out that their pasts tie them together in unexpected ways. If you’re a fan of paranormal romance that’s a little more on the suspense and intrigue side, then I think you might like the series.

Do you remember the first thing you ever wrote? Can you tell us about it?

I honestly don’t remember the first thing. The first thing I remember showing anyone was a short story I wrote in college for my mother. It was a fictionalized account of a story my grandfather had told me a few years before he passed away. In fact, a rewritten version of that story can be found in my writing site, ElizabethHunterWrites.com.

Do you prefer plaid or stripes?

Ha! I love plaid on other people, and on myself in very small amounts. A purse or a scarf, maybe. My son is six and quite adept at mixing both plaids and stripes, but unfortunately, I’m not that style-savvy.

Was choosing to publish independently something you always wanted, or an option you hadn’t considered before? (Independently being defined here as NOT one of the Big Six.)

I was a technical writer for many years, but I started to get serious about creative writing in late 2010, just as indie-publishing was starting to make news. I had never queried or submitted traditionally, so I decided to just start my career on my own terms. It’s a good fit for me, personally. I’m independent by nature, and I like to control all aspects of my books. I’m not afraid of the marketing, and I like being able to write and produce work at my own pace. My first series of books will all be published within a year of the first book’s release. I wouldn’t be able to do that with a traditional publisher.

Are you working on anything new at the moment?

My husband will tell you that I’m always working on something! Right now, I’m editing the last book in the Elemental Mysteries, A Fall of Water, which will be out in June 2012. I’m also writing a companion novel for one of the supporting characters that explores the Elementals world a little more. I may write more in this particular universe, but I also have plans another series swirling around.

Do you have any rituals before writing? Music or silence? Coffee or tea? Twizzlers or M&Ms?

No rituals, per se. I’m a mom, so I often have to write when I can snatch time. I’m a meticulous planner and plotter, though, so my books are all time-lined, outlined, sketched, and plotted out in long-hand before I ever sit down to write at my laptop. I do have playlists that I create for each book that snap me into “writing mode.” I like coffee and tea, but coffee is, by far, more crucial for everyday survival. As for candy? I don’t have a huge sweet tooth, but I do love almonds and pistachios. I suppose my guilty pleasure are M&Ms with peanuts or almonds.

Have you ever based a character on someone you know?

Not directly, but I think there are aspects of characters that always sneak in or reflect the people closest to me. One of the characters in A Hidden Fire has an outrageous sense of humor like my husband. Beatrice’s best friend in This Same Earth, the second book, reminds me of a few of my girlfriends. Though I’ll admit, Doyle, the cat in A Hidden Fire is a direct homage to my Grandmother’s cat, Bibi.

What color is your umbrella?

Black. But I once saw an umbrella that was black on the outside and had panels from the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel on the inside! I wish I had bought it at the time. If I ever find another one, I’m buying a dozen.

Who is your favorite author and why?

There is no way to answer that question! I don’t have a single favorite. It’s impossible. My favorite in fantasy is Tolkien. My favorite poet is Neruda. I love Shakespeare and Austen and Morrison and Ondaatje. Within my own genre, I love Jeanine Frost and Charlaine Harris. I love variety, most of all. That’s part of the reason I became a writer. Writing is never boring for me.

What was the last book you read?

Thea Harrison’s third book in the Elder Races series, Serpent’s Kiss. I just discovered the Elder Races series a couple of months ago, and I really enjoy them.

Do you write about locations you’ve visited, or do you rely on research? Or do you make up entire settings in your head?

The Elemental Mysteries are pretty international. The story starts out in Houston, but then travels all over Europe, South America, and China. The first two books are mostly locations where I have traveled, but in the third book, The Force of Wind, Gio and B go to China, so I had to rely on research and help from my brother, who has traveled extensively in Asia. So, it’s a combination. I’ve traveled, but I also do a lot of research. Some of the locations are completely made up or based on traditional myth, like Mt. Penglai, the legendary home of the Eight Immortals in Asian mythology.

After the last word is written, then what? Do you have pre-readers and editors who take over? Do you begin query letters immediately?

I have a few readers who actually read while I’m writing. After I finish the first draft, I set it aside, then do the first self-edit. Then I send it my beta-readers, both of whom are writers; they go over it, then finally I send it to my editor, who then sends it to the proofreader, and so on. All in all, the books are usually read by about ten sets of eyes before they’re published!

What song would be on the soundtrack for your book?

There are so, so many. But two songs that jump to mind for my main characters, Giovanni and Beatrice are “Set Fire to the Third Bar” by Snow Patrol and “Anytime, Anywhere” by Sarah Brightman.

Where can people find your book?

They can find the first three books of my series on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Smashwords. The first book is also available at iBookstore, Diesel, and Kobo (the second and third will get there eventually, but those stores take longer!) and the paperbacks are available on my book website, ElementalMysteries.com or on Amazon for $11.99.

Can we read a little excerpt?

Absolutely! Here’s one of my favorite excerpts from A Hidden Fire:

“Tell the truth, Giovanni Vecchio.” A mischievous look came to her eye. “You have a butler, a cool car, and I’ve only ever seen you at night…”

He froze, tension suddenly evident in the set of his shoulders. Beatrice leaned closer and whispered, “You’re Batman, aren’t you?”

His mouth dropped open in surprise before the grin overtook his face.

She smiled back at him, chuckling until he joined in. Soon, they were both laughing.

“You looked so serious for a second! What did you think I was going to say? A spy? Vampire? Hired killer?”

He shook his head in amusement. “You’re confounding. No, I was just surprised you guessed. I am, in fact, Batman. I would appreciate your discretion.”

She nodded with a smirk, and took another sip of the coffee he’d brought her. It had just a touch of cream, exactly the way she liked it. “Sure you are. I’m a skeptic until I see the rubber suit. You’re not fooling me.”

He looked at her, smiling mischievously. “You really want to see me in a rubber suit?”

(Can we pause for a moment and discuss how delicious Giovanni is? Yes? Good. Let’s proceed…)

A Hidden Fire, This Same Earth, and The Force of Wind are now available from all major online e-book retailers. Book Four, A Fall of Water, will be available in Summer 2012.

Learn more about the Elemental Mysteries series at ElementalMysteries.com or contact her by e-mail at elizabethhunterwrites@gmail.com. You can follow Elizabeth on twitter @E__Hunter or on Facebook on her page “Elemental Mysteries by Elizabeth Hunter.”

A Moment with Matt Tomerlin

Feb22

Guys, the Twitter has done it again. I got a follow request from a fellow author, and the synopsis of his book intrigued me. I wouldn’t say I’m obsessed with pirates, but I do have a soft spot for Peter Pan and Pirates of Penzance…okay, and Pirates of the Caribbean, while we’re at it. I don’t get to hand these questions over to many men, so I was excited to see what Matt had to say. I hope you’ll take a moment to learn more about him, and then enjoy the brief excerpt from his book, The Devil’s Fire, at the end.

As my husband always says, “What’s your book about?”

“The Devil’s Fire: Pirate’s Bane #1″ is about a young woman from London, Katherine Lindsay, who is kidnapped by pirates in the early 1700s. The phrase “what doesn’t kill us makes us stronger” definitely applies, as Katherine is forced to find an inner strength she otherwise would never have realized she had. She evolves throughout the story, and by the final chapter she is barely recognizable from the woman in the beginning. I wanted to write a realistic pirate story without all the supernatural stuff that did not shy from scenes of brutality or sex (though it is not a romance novel).

Do you remember the first thing you ever wrote? Can you tell us about it?

Yes! In my mid-teens I wrote a screenplay about a rich man who fakes his death and then spies on his wife to find out if she really loved him. It was ambitious, but at that point I hadn’t had enough life experience (particularly relationship experience) to make it convincing.

Do you prefer plaid or stripes?

Stripes, because Smee wears a striped shirt in Peter Pan.

Was choosing to publish independently something you always wanted, or an option you hadn’t considered before? (Independently being defined here as NOT one of the Big Six.)

Like so many others, I grew tired of agents/publishers rejecting my work without bothering to read a single paragraph. Bottom line is I wanted people to be able to read the story, and self-publishing was the fastest way to guarantee that. Amazon hasn’t let me down. I’ve sold over 5,000 copies of “The Devil’s Fire” so far, and that’s 4,999 more than I thought I would.

Are you working on anything new at the moment?

I’m nearly finished with the follow-up to “The Devil’s Fire,” which is called “The Devil’s Tide”. The second book is open ended, and there will likely be a third.

Do you have any rituals before writing? Music or silence? Coffee or tea? Twizzlers or M&Ms?

Total silence. Lots of Pepsi or Mt. Dew, and sometimes wine (later at night). Too many varieties of snacks to list… although you’ve inspired me to add Twizzlers into the mix.

Have you ever based a character on someone you know?

Not specifically, but I do incorporate personality traits from everyone I know into nearly every character. In “The Devil’s Fire,” Katherine Lindsay has elements of the strongest women I know, who have faced hardship and emerged stronger, chin held high. The main antagonist, Edward Livingston, contains the very worst traits of humanity; a personification of those dark thoughts we never entertain. Nathan Adams is very much the naïve youth I was and many other teenaged males were. Captain Jonathan Griffith represents blind ambition, and proves to be the most difficult obstacle in Katherine Lindsay’s path, because there’s an undeniable attraction between them, despite the horrible things he has done.

What color is your umbrella?

I have a blue one from Disneyland, with Mickey Mouse on it. Don’t judge me.

Who is your favorite author and why?

Yikes. This is the hardest question yet. At the moment it would be Mark Twain, because he’s one of the few authors who can make me laugh out loud.

What was the last book you read?

I’m currently reading “Hunger Games,” because all my female friends insisted. It’s surprisingly addictive. Before that, I read “The Holy Road,” by Michael Blake, a very depressing but exquisitely written follow-up to “Dances With Wolves”.

Do you write about locations you’ve visited, or do you rely on research? Or do you make up entire settings in your head?

With historical fiction, I have to do thorough research. I think it adds to the authenticity of a story, even if it’s only on a subconscious level. For example, much of “The Devil’s Fire” takes place in Nassau during the golden age of piracy, so I did extensive research on what Nassau was like at that time. I peppered the narrative with little details that may seem inconsequential, but hopefully help in transporting the reader to that time period.

After the last word is written, then what? Do you have pre-readers and editors who take over? Do you begin query letters immediately?

First I read it and edit it myself, and then I send it to a select group of friends who are very detail oriented. My sister is an editor, so that is a big help. Query letters are the last part, though I must admit I’m not really bothering with them anymore. The book seems to be finding an audience on Amazon, so that’s good enough for me.

What song would be on the soundtrack for your book?

“Who’s Gonna Ride Your Wild Horses” by U2. The lyrics totally fit Katherine’s character.

Where can people find your book?

It is currently exclusive to Amazon Kindle: http://amzn.com/B005GL93LA

The second book will be out in 2012, hopefully by June.

Can we read a little excerpt?

It was six hours before the pirates discovered her cowering beneath the bed.

Several pirates spilled into the cabin, laughing and cursing. She glimpsed only their feet. Some wore boots, but most were barefoot. She watched through a hole in the heavy quilt that was draped over the bed as they thieved most of her clothes and jewelry. They took whatever perked their interest and then left, their boisterous laughter fading into the roaring pandemonium that had enveloped the main deck.

After what she presumed to be two hours, she heard a loud scuttle and a subsequent shriek that was abruptly cut short. A riotous commotion lasted for nearly five minutes before it broke into uncontrollable fits of laughter. For the next hour she was left to ponder her husband’s fate. Her mind played out a relentless torrent of ghastly possibilities, with Thomas meeting a grisly death in every one of them.

And then, with a glorious flood of relief, she heard his voice. Her eyes burned. She squeezed them shut, refusing to allow any tears to burst free; there would be time enough for that later, when she held him in her arms again, and the present ordeal was nothing more than a memory.

Thomas was conversing with a man whose voice held a distinctive air of authority. As this man spoke, the pirates gradually calmed. Katherine found herself transfixed on the voice, even though it was far too muffled through the cabin walls for her to distinguish words. He possessed a tranquil tone that she rather liked, and she temporarily forgot her peril while listening to him.

Thomas and the man with the fair voice eventually ended their conversation, and the pirate uproar started anew. This went on at some length, and the cabin remained empty over the next few hours. Gradually, the clamor outside grew even louder, and the unmistakable sound of a shattering bottle prompted her to wonder if the pirates had discovered the cases of wine in the cargo hold.

The endless ruckus numbed her senses, and she found her eyelids growing heavy. The floor’s wooden planking seemed to stretch away from her. Her vision thinned to narrowing slits that soon receded into darkness.

The door was thrust open, and the ruckus outside flooded the cabin like a tidal wave. Katherine lifted her head and smashed the crown of her skull against the underbelly of the bed. Her eyes shot open in accordance with the jolting pain.

A pair of buckled shoes marched deliberately for the bed. The man who wore them reached down and tore the quilt away, spoiling her hiding place. With the velocity of a striking snake, his hand shot under the bed to grasp Katherine’s hair, dragging her painfully from cover.

“This ship’s treasures never cease,” said the man with the voice that she had liked so much. But his pleasant enunciation was no match for the hunger in his eyes.

Be sure to follow Matt on Twitter, “like” him on Facebook, and check out his GoodReads profile. You can also follow his blog for updates on the series.