Illicit Magic by Camilla Chafer - Guest Post & Giveaway

Illicit Magic by Camilla Chafer

Published: May 1, 2011 by Audacious

More than three hundred years after the most terrifying witch hunts the world has ever known, it's happening again.

Young witch, Stella, has to put her faith in strangers just to stay alive but she might not be any safer in their midst than from the danger she is running from.

There is more than one dark secret in her new family: Étoile’s sister is spoken of in fear and sadness; Marc is supposed to be a powerful witch but is missing his magic; where does the owner of their safe house vanish to every day and why does Evan have the eyes of someone not quite human? There is only one secret that someone will do anything to keep quiet, but whose secret is it and will Stella have to pay the price for silence?

Guest Post:

When I first started thinking about writing about witches, I knew I didn’t want to do a traditional tale of spellcraft. No frogs, toads and lizard tails solely for my witches! Instead I wanted magic to be a very intrinsic part of their being, something that comes as naturally to them as breathing. When they use their magic it’s simply an extension of themselves, much like another sense. However, there are some that specialize in spellcraft and we’ll meet them too.

Our heroine, Stella, hasn’t had the benefit of growing up in a witch family. Instead she’s been left, untutored, in an almost hostile human world. Without training, her magic is frightening, uncontrollable and very isolating. She “shimmers” or dematerializes by accident, appearing unexpectedly in a different location and her telekinetic “burden” means things happen around her, often bursting forth when she is angry or frightened. Despite not understanding how her magic works, or even what it is, it’s her ability to shimmer that enables her to escape the dangerous witch hunters who chase her one dark night.

Each of my witches is a little different. There’s Etoile who is psychic and can dematerialize at will, Kitty who controls the weather, and David who is a master of spellcraft. And then there’s Marc, the son of powerful witches, who unfathomably has no magic of his own. On meeting a witch in this world, you never know what skills they possess or how strong they are. Magic is neither good nor evil in this world. It can be a great aid, it can corrupt horribly and it can also be a great comfort.

Despite the innate nature of their magic, my witches still need to learn to control it. As Stella’s control grows other abilities appear, and her personality changes so she’s more relaxed and comfortable in her own skin, enabling her to form the relationships she craves with her new friends and love interest, the enigmatic Evan. Gradually, her power grows, Stella is able to move objects at will, shimmer to locations of her choosing and protect herself. But as the saying goes, with great power comes great responsibilities and we’ll see the effects of too much power on some of the witches and the devastating legacy it can lead.

About the author:

Hi, I'm Camilla and I'm the author of the Stella Mayweather Series, an urban fantasy/mystery. The series starts with Illicit Magic and a lonely young woman, Stella, who has been caught up in a terrifying witch hunt and is whisked thousands of miles away to what she thinks is safety to learn her craft. The series is a blend of magic, mystery and romance with a splash of humour - and while the girls really do go all out to save themselves, there's always a hunky guy or two on hand to help them out. The series continues with Unruly Magic and Devious Magic, both out now.

I live in London, England, but I try to travel as often as I can – I’ve been all over the US and Europe. In my day job I'm a journalist and editor so I write for magazines, newspapers and websites throughout the world (my favourite assignment was spending a week riding rollercoasters - if you listen carefully you can probably still hear me screaming) but writing fiction has always been my first love.

You can find out more about Camilla Chafer and how to connect with her on her website.

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Giveaway:

1 winner will receive an eBook of Illicit Magic by Camilla Chafer.

How to enter:

+1 Follow Krazy Book Lady in whatever way you choose.

+1 Follow Camilla Chafer on Twitter or like on Facebook.

+1 Tweet about this giveaway. Here's the tweet to use:

I want to #win ILLICIT MAGIC by Camilla Chafer @camillawrites from @KrazyBookLady! http://bit.ly/H9zVXb

Giveaway details:

Giveaway is open internationally. This giveaway will run until midnight EST on April 23. Must be 13 or older to enter. Winner will be chosen using Random.org. Winner will be emailed and this blog post will be updated to include the name of the winner. Winner has 3 days to contact me or a new winner will be selected.

Sorry! This giveaway is now over.

Winner: Alyssa

Lightning Tree by Sarah Dunster - Fun Facts Guest Post

Lightning Tree by Sarah Dunster

Expected publication: April 10, 2012 by Bonneville Books, an imprint of Cedar Fort

After surviving the tragic deaths of her parents and her baby sister and a harrowing trek across the plains to Utah, it's no surprise that Maggie's nights are plagued by nightmares. But after years of harsh treatment by her foster family and memories that seem to hint at an unthinkable crime, Maggie is forced to strike out on her own to separate the facts from the lies.

Guest post by Sarah Dunster:

Fun facts about Lightning Tree and its background

What drove me to write Lightning Tree was, first and foremost, a deep interest in the history of the place I lived at the time: Provo, Utah. I drove through the main streets and looked at old buildings and wondered about them. There is a park in the middle of town with a collection of old log cabins with family names on them… I wanted to know so many things about those families and about the people who lived there. And I was also interested in the narratives of immigrants who joined the Mormon faith and then moved into a place where most everyone spoke English. What were the dynamics like for a “foreign” convert in a pioneer community?

As I researched for my story, I came across many entertaining anecdotes about Provo and its citizens. Maggie, my main character, is what was called Waldensian or Valdois. The Valdois were a French sect of Christianity separate from the Catholic Church, who adhered to old doctrines and a certain, older version of the Bible. For that reason they were persecuted throughout the centuries they lived in the Turin valleys in Italy. The Mormon pioneers related to them—a lot of the beliefs between Waldensians matching up well with Mormon beliefs, and of course, being driven from place to place, having to deal with persecutions from the government, etc.—and so they sent missionaries over there to see if anyone was interested in the message they had to offer. In the end, a handful of families converted and came over (together, in the same boats and pioneer companies) to settle in Utah. They formed their own little knot of a congregation in the middle of the LDS population. I felt that a story about a Waldensian girl who is isolated from this very strong sense of identity and culture, being, in a way, forced to become “Americanized” as a part of her acceptance of the new life living the gospel her parents accepted, would be an interesting narrative.

Another interesting thing about my story, and history, is that the anecdote that starts off my conflict—Maggie finding her mother’s name written on the Aldens’ mattress—actually happened in my own family history. One of my ancestors, who had immigrated to America with his parents, was orphaned and then adopted by a family who hid some of his past from him. And then one day, he found his family name written on a mattress the family used. He was fifteen—like my character—and actually, ran away from home. It’s an interesting struggle for me, too, dealing with the issues of loss and acceptance surrounding adoption, as I am an adoptive mother. And so I found the story a very interesting and sometimes, therapeutic one to write.

About the author:

Sarah Dunster is an award-winning poet and fiction writer. Her poems have been published in Dialogue: a Journal of Mormon Thought, Segullah Magazine, and Victorian Violet Press. Her short fiction piece, Back North, is featured in Segullah’s Fall 2011 issue. Her novel Lightning Tree will be released in spring of 2012 by Cedar Fort. Sarah has six children and one on the way and loves writing almost as much as she loves being a mom.

You can find out more about Sarah and Lightning Tree on her website and the Book Poster page.

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Abby Finds Her Calling by Naomi King - Review

Abby Finds Her Calling: Home at Cedar Creek, Book 1 by Naomi King

Published: February 28, 2012

Publisher: New American Library 

The Lambright family's eldest daughter, Abby, runs her own sewing shop. There, she mends the town's clothes and their torn relationships. But the town maiden has sworn off any suitors of her own because of her unrequited love for James Graber, who is about to marry her younger sister, Zanna.

On the wedding day, Zanna is nowhere to be found, breaking James' heart. Zanna has brought shame to her family, but there's more in store for them when they discover how far she has fallen. Long-buried secrets come to light, and they test the bonds of the Cedar Creek community. Abby is at the center of it all, trying to maintain everyone's happiness. But will she ever find her own?

My Review:

James and Zanna are planning to be married, but she runs off on her wedding day. When she is found, secrets come out that will turn their little Amish community upside down. Abby, Zanna's sister, has been friends with James most of her life, but she is also secretly in love with him. Abby must put aside her personal feelings to help support her sister, her friend, and her family.

Most of this book revolves around Zanna and her secret which has repercussions for the whole Amish community. However, Abby is in the center of it all. When you read closely, you discover the book is actually about Abby's quiet faith in God and following what He wants her to do so that she is able to help her family. It is an inspirational story that brings you a sense of peacefulness when you read it and reminds you to stand strong in your beliefs and your faith.

When I first agreed to read this book, I didn't realize that I also had another one from the same author but written under another name. I enjoyed reading this book as well as the other one. Naomi King is a skilled writer who easily engages you in the lives of the characters she has created. 

A copy was provided by the author for review.

About the author:

Drawing upon her experiences in Jamesport, the largest Old Order Amish community west of the Mississippi, longtime Missourian NAOMI KING writes of simpler times and a faith-based lifestyle in her new Home at Cedar Creek series. Like her series heroine, Abby Lambright, Naomi considers it her personal mission to be a listener—to heal broken hearts and wounded souls—and to share her hearth and home. Faith and family, farming and frugality are hallmarks of her lifestyle: like Abby, she made her wedding dress and the one her mom wore, too! She’s a deacon, a dedicated church musician and choir member, and when she’s not writing, she loves to travel, try new recipes, crochet, and sew. Naomi now lives in Minnesota with her husband and their border collie, Ramona. 

You can find out more about Naomi King on her website. 

Naomi King also writes as Charlotte Hubbard. Please see my review of Summer of Secrets.

Night Sky by Jolene Perry - Fun Facts Guest Post

Night Sky by Jolene Perry

Published: March 1, 2012

Publisher: Tribute Books

After losing Sarah, the friend he’s loved, to some other guy, Jameson meets Sky. Her Native American roots, fluid movements, and need for brutal honesty become addictive fast. This is good. Jameson needs distraction – his dad leaves for another woman, his mom’s walking around like a zombie, and Sarah’s new boyfriend can’t keep his hands off of her.

As he spends time with Sky and learns about her village, her totems, and her friends with drums - she's way more than distraction. Jameson's falling for her fast.

But Sky’s need for honesty somehow doesn’t extend to her life story – and Jameson just may need more than his new girl to keep him distracted from the disaster of his senior year.

Fun Facts about Night Sky and Jolene Perry

When I first got the idea for the story, Jameson did not end up with the girl that he ends up with at the end of Night Sky.

Jameson's parents are based on an awesome couple my husband and I knew when we lived in Las Vegas. They had one of the nicest houses in the neighborhood behind the apartments where we lived. He was a dealer at a casino, and she was a waitress. Both had worked in the back, but made more money with all the tips while working in the front. We used to see her leaving for work about 10 PM wearing almost nothing, climbing in her car, and taking off. They were way cool.

Sky really had to be the opposite of Sarah, but I didn't know what she looked like until I wrote the scene where Jameson drives up behind her. That first scene between Jameson and Sky wrote itself, and it was cool to learn about who she was as the scene progressed.

I'm third generation Alaskan (almost fourth), and most of my family still lives in Southeast Alaska where the Tlingit people live. When I was little (and to this day) their drumming and dances are my favorite of the many cultures of Alaska Natives. I've spent hours in the parks in Sitka and Ketchikan, and never got tired of the massive totems there.

My parents own a company that installs gym floors (yes, I know how to install a gym floor, as well as how to paint game lines and logos) and it gave me the opportunity to be in a LOT of native villages all over the state. Many times we had to bring in all our own food, and slept in the school because it was the only public building. I was in Manokotak a few years ago, and the native language of Inuit is still the first language spoken for these kids, and there is one phone for the community. This is changing with the spread of hand-held satellite phones, but I love that there are still places like that in the U.S.

There's talk in the book about Native Corporations versus Reservations. Alaska has only one reservation. The Native people up here formed corporations, which gave them a lot more rights and control over their land than most Native Americans, if not all. It's a very cool thing. My sister and her husband just adopted a native baby, and had to get permission from the tribal council - they work very hard to preserve the cultural heritage.

I put In-N-Out Burger in almost all my books so I can live vicariously through my characters. The chances of one ever making it to Alaska are very, VERY slim.

About the author:

Jolene grew up in Wasilla, Alaska. She graduated from Southern Utah University with a degree in political science and French, which she used to teach math to middle schoolers.

After living in Washington, Utah and Las Vegas, she now resides in Alaska with her husband, and two children. Aside from writing, Jolene sews, plays the guitar, sings when forced, and spends as much time outside as possible.

She is also the author of The Next Door Boys and the upcoming Knee Deep. 

You can find Jolene on her website, Twitter, and Facebook.

You can find out more about Night Sky on the book's official website or add it on Goodreads.

 

The Secret Life of Copernicus H. Stringfellow by Lorin Barber - Review & Giveaway

The Secret Life of Copernicus H. Stringfellow by Lorin Barber
Expected publication: March 13, 2012
Publisher: Sweetwater Books, an imprint of Cedar Fort

Copernicus H. Stringfellow, a.k.a. Nick, is not your run-of-the-mill genius. His mind is so powerful it can stop a speeding automobile or stem internal bleeding. As Nick goes about quietly doing good, he discovers that his powers are greatly enhanced by the nutrients present in Twinkies. Follow Nick on his amazing adventures in this humorous and exciting action-packed book for all ages.

Kayla's Review:
The Secret Life of Copernicus H. Stringfellow is Lorin Barber’s first work of fiction about Copernicus “Nick” H. Stringfellow – a Twinkies-powered, super-genius superhero who lives his life to help others. It is published by Cedar Fort books with a March 13^th, 2012 release date. Its target audience seems to be young adult, although all ages could find enjoyment in this book.

Nick Stringfellow is a strange fellow. He drives cross-country in his 1969 Chevy Impala SS 427, picking up hitchhikers and helping his fellow man when/wherever possible. When the wind blows him to Seattle, Washington, he calls in a favor to one of his old friends to get a job at the Harborview Medical Center as a “nurse at large”. While there, he makes new friends and tries to come up with ways to make these various individuals’ lives better.

I found The Secret Life of Copernicus H. Stringfellow to be a very sweet, funny, and enjoyable read. The protagonist, Nick, is a man on a mission to make the world a better place. He goes out of his way to be helpful to everyone he meets and is quite endearing. His backstory is filled with a little bit of sadness, and he reminds me a bit of T. S. Garp from The World According to Garp by John Irving (minus the sex). The Secret Life is littered with a multitude of minor characters, and the housekeeper, Jemima, is my favorite. The best line of the book is when Nick offers her three thousand dollars a month to clean his house a few hours a day. She tells him, “Honey, for $3000 a month, I’d clean between your toes with a Q-tip.” (ARC, Page 30) I laughed out loud. These minor characters are used to show us the facets of Nick and give him opportunities to grow (as much as a super-genius can).

Something I enjoyed the most of this novel was the little tidbits of information that Nick would rattle off randomly. He was a well of knowledge and was quick to share it, whether his listener liked it or not. Mr. Barber had to have researched a good bit of miscellaneous trivia to provide so many extra facts to the story. I also found the Twinkie-related consonance to be hilarious, even if it began to go a little overboard.

On the downside, I had a few problems with The Secret Life. The main one was that Mr. Barber used stereotypes as a crutch. Every character that was introduced in the story had his or her age, height, weight, race, beauty, and level of hygiene presented. The fat, less than hygienic men were the bad guys that had to be punished (and seemed to be drunks also); the less than pretty or older females were waiting to be swept off their feet by the just as unattractive man; and the beautiful, intelligent woman who had a great career was only being successful while waiting on someone with whom she could start a family. Despite them being so wonderfully described, each one lacked development in the book. There were also a few plot points that went absolutely nowhere. Perhaps there will be a sequel to this novel, but that brings me to my last issue. I would say the book stopped more than ended. Each chapter of the book was its own little story that, while fitting in with the flow of the book, mostly wrapped up at the end of its own little section. I cannot say the same for the book. The only end that was even remotely tied was with one of the villainous minor characters, and the book ended with him. I was left staring at my Nook, asking “Is this it?!”

Although I had my problems with the aforementioned items, I found myself enjoying the book. I think anyone looking for a quick, fun read would relish going on an adventure with Copernicus H. Stringfellow.

A copy was provided by the publisher through Net Galley for review.

About the author:
Lorin Barber has an MBA from the University of Washington and a bachelor's degree in Japanese language. He has had a successful career as a manufacturing executive. He has six children and, so far, eight grandchildren. He lives in a small town in the state of Washington with his wife of thirty-six years. In his spare time, you might find him panning for gold in the wilds of Washington. This is his first fictional work.

You can find out more about Lorin Barber and Copernicus Stringfellow on Mr. Barber's site, Twitter, and the Book Poster page.

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Giveaway:

One winner will receive a copy of The Secret Life of Copernicus H. Stringfellow by Lorin Barber.  Per Cedar Fort's policy, winner will have the choice between a print or an e-book if in the U.S. and an eBook will be sent if the winner lives outside the U.S.

How to enter:

Just fill out the form below with your name and email. 

Giveaway details:

Giveaway is open internationally. (See details above.) This giveaway will run until midnight EST on March 16. Must be 13 or older to enter. Winner will be chosen using Random.org. Winner will be emailed and this blog post will be updated to include the name of the winner. Winner has 3 days to contact me or a new winner will be selected.  

Sorry! This giveaway is now closed.

Winner: Ronda N.

Until Next Time by Amy Lignor - Review

Until Next Time by Amy Lignor
Published: February 1, 2012 by Tribute Books

How does a girl choose between the one who steals her heart and the one who owns her soul?

Matt and Emily were created for a specific job. Raised and trained as the ultimate angel/warrior team, they are sent down to save, defend, judge and forgive, depending on the 'life' they've been assigned. What they don't realize is that the power of human emotions, such as love, anger, passion and fear can take over even the best of souls, causing them to make mistakes and follow paths that lead to confusion and heartache.

When the reason for their training is finally revealed, the angel/warrior team find themselves thrust into a world they know nothing about. Matt takes over the life of Daniel, a young man with a great deal of baggage. Emily becomes Liz, a girl living in a remote village who relies on nothing more than her own strength to survive. A violent storm erupts one night, and framed in the window of Liz's establishment is a frightening face. Let in by the soul of a Good Samaritan, the two visitors bring with them a past full of secrets that could literally change an angel's path and a warrior's plans.

From murder to redemption, this angel/warrior team must find a way to keep the faith they have in each other in a world that's ripping them apart.

My Review:
Matt and Amy were made for each other, literally, and they were raised together and trained together in Heaven. When they turn 18, they begin going down to take over the life of someone whose life ended too soon, who still had important things they needed to accomplish. What they don't realize until their first trip is that they won't remember each other while they are there.  Do people who were "made" for each other always end up together?

Matt and Emily go from being Daniel and Liz to leaving those bodies (at night so no one around them realizes what is going on) and being back up in Heaven.  While they are in Heaven, they discuss what is going on in the bodies of Daniel and Liz with the angels who have been their teachers and trainers. Then they jump back down into the lives of Daniel and Liz and don't remember any of it. Daniel and Liz are friends, having been pulled together by tragedy. Two strangers show up during a violent storm. One of these is John, who is interested in Liz. Is her interest in John enough to make her fall in love with him and pull her away from the man who was made for her? The attraction between John and Liz is enough to make readers want them to end up together while also wanting Liz to choose Daniel, who we know is her "soul mate." It is an interesting concept that perhaps Daniel and Liz were not made for each other, even though the souls inside their bodies are Matt and Emily, who have been told they were made for each other their entire lives. Because, after all, Matt and Emily only have the memories of Daniel and Liz while they are in those bodies.

Until Next Time has a unique spin on angels, and it isn't the typical boy meets girl scenario. If you are looking for something different in YA paranormal, this would be a good one to pick up.

A copy was provided by the publisher for review.

About the author:
Amy Lignor began her career at Grey House Publishing in northwest Connecticut where she was the Editor-in-Chief of numerous educational and business directories.

Now she is a published author of several works of fiction. The Billy the Kid historical The Heart of a Legend; the thriller, Mind Made; and the adventure novel, Tallent & Lowery 13.

She is also the owner of The Write Companion, a company that offers help and support to writers through a full range of editorial services from proofreading and copyediting to ghostwriting and research. As the daughter of a research librarian, she is also an active book reviewer.

Currently, she lives with her daughter, mother and a rambunctious German Shepherd named Reuben, in the beautiful state of New Mexico.

You can find Amy Lignor on her website, blog, Twitter, Facebook, and The Angel Chronicles website. 

Character Guest Post by Terri Giuliano Long, author of In Leah's Wake

Because I have had Terri on the blog before, I asked for something a little different this time. I hope you enjoy this guest post written from the perspective of one of the characters from the novel.
 

Guest post by Terri Giuliano Long

What do you like about people?

By Justine Tyler

Because I’m young and sort of reserved, people often assume I like everyone. Maybe it’s because I try to give everybody a chance. It’s unfair to judge people you hardly know. My sister bends a lot of rules, but it doesn’t make her a bad person. She just wants to be independent. I don’t always agree with how she behaves, but I respect her. When I overhear people talking, judging her, I just want to punch them.  KIA-AH. Left, right, uppercut. Pow, pow! Ha! Knock some sense into their peanut-size brain.

Not everyone’s like that, of course, so I have to be careful. Some people – my friend Holly, for instance – live in their own little world, isolated from the rest of us. They hardly notice anyone else, which is a little annoying. At least they don’t hurt anyone. Sometimes I wish I were more like Holly, but if I were, I suppose, I wouldn’t be me.

What do I like about people? Let’s see: Given a shot, most people are kind. If a small animal or a child is in trouble, they do what they can to help. Maybe they sense the vulnerability and shut down their defenses. Really, I’m not sure it matters. It’s the act, what you do, right? How you behave? Not whether you think about it or not.

People are generous, especially with their time. Take Officer Johnson. He’s got a tough job and two babies at home, yet he finds time for our family. Leah thinks he’s got the hots for our mom. I don’t believe her. Even if it’s true, as long as he doesn’t act on it – I really can’t imagine him doing anything – he’s still a good person. He doesn’t have to check in on us, but he does. Whenever I see his cruiser, I smile.

I like that people try. Life can be rough, you know? Hard to get out of bed every day, put one foot in front of the other, go to school, study, do your chores, make an effort to be a good friend. Look at Hope Lansdown. She’s fat—not chubby, fat. If that’s not bad enough for a girl, her dad left when she was a baby. She and her mom live in this  falling down house – Mom and I drove by one day and she showed me – with dirty windows and a ratty front yard. She was kicked off the soccer team in ninth grade, has no extracurricular activities. Her boyfriend, this big scary kid named Lupo, sells drugs. With her life, why get out of bed in the morning? What’s the point? Yet she does. People, all kinds of people – young, old, middle age – do the same every day.

Once, in Boston, my mom and I saw this guy with a transplanted face. A nurse held his arm and they were out walking. I cried. I didn’t feel sorry for him. No, not at all. Last year, watching the Kentucky Derby with my dad I bawled my eyes out. The horses are so beautiful, so powerful. And they have so much heart. It’s not always about winning, you know? Mostly, it’s just about being there, playing the game.

Big things, winning, heroics—this isn’t what counts. On any given day, under the right circumstances, anybody could be a champion. It’s the everyday things - being kind and generous, giving of yourself, going out on a limb, getting out of bed every day, pushing yourself—the connections that make people special. That’s what I love.

Who is Justine Tyler? She is Leah’s sister in the novel, In Leah’s Wake. Protecting their children comes naturally for Zoe and Will Tyler - until their daughter Leah decides to actively destroy her own future. What happens when love just isn’t enough? Who will pay the consequences of Leah’s vagrant lifestyle? Can this broken family survive the destruction left in Leah’s wake? 

About the author:

Terri Giuliano Long grew up in the company of stories both of her own making and as written by others. Books offer her a zest for life’s highs and comfort in its lows. She’s all-too-happy to share this love with others as a novelist and as a lecturer at Boston College. Terri loves meeting and connecting with people who share her passions.

Visit Terri on her site, Twitter, and Facebook.  

In Leah's Wake by Terri Giuliano Long

Published: October 2010

The Tylers have a perfect life—beautiful home, established careers, two sweet and talented daughters. Their eldest daughter, Leah, an exceptional soccer player, is on track for a prestigious scholarship. Their youngest, Justine — more responsible than seems possible for her 12 years—just wants her sister’s approval. With Leah nearing the end of high school and Justine a seemingly “together” kid, the parents are set to enjoy a peaceful life…until everything goes wrong. Can this family survive in Leah’s wake?

 

Back to You by Natalie-Nicole Bates - Feature & Guest Post

Back to You by Natalie-Nicole Bates
Published: January 2012
Publisher: Bradley Publishing

On the surface, Lynsey Reznor seems to have it all. She is beautiful, brilliant, and a successful true-crime writer who has been living the past decade in Miami. But what Lynsey lacks is what she needs the most—a family.

After the death of her mother, and yet another failed relationship, Lynsey makes an impulsive decision to return to her hometown of Unity. But Unity will present its own bittersweet memories, most notably, her first love, Nick Lincoln.

Twenty years ago, Nick broke teenager Lynsey’s heart when he decided to marry another. He had his own private reasons—reasons he never explained to Lynsey. Now she is back, along with a chance to reclaim her love. But Lynsey wants answers from him that he may never be able to give out of duty and guilt.

Guest post by Natalie-Nicole Bates:

From Reader to Writer in Three Not-So-Easy Steps!

For several years before I even formulated an idea for my first book, I was reviewing books. Being a voracious reader since I was a child, reviewing seemed like the natural choice for me.

When I was still in school, my teacher assigned us students to choose three books each semester and write a few paragraphs about them. This was my first taste of book reviewing! While I was reading and reviewing Harold Robbins and Sidney Sheldon, my teacher came to me and said, You really should be reading the classics.

To me, Sheldon and Robbins were the Masters.

Book reviewing is an art that requires a special skill set. Book reviewing sites are professionally run, and most require interested applicants to audition. Book reviewers know how a book is put together, they understand the elements of plot, setting, scene, and point of view. They look for flow, for consistency, and most of all, they know how to remain neutral.

So if a book reviewer understands the mechanics of how a good book is put together, can they become writers themselves? Maybe.

About a year ago, I decided to make the leap into writing. First and foremost, I stopped reviewing contemporary and paranormal romance (the genres I was interested in). I did this by my own choice. I now review mostly mystery and inspirational romance.

I already had my idea for a contemporary romance, and I signed up for an intensive six month course in the art of novel writing. This past summer, I sold my first novel, Change of Address, which is now available at Secret Cravings Publishing. Within a few weeks of my sale, I was offered a contract for my short paranormal, Antique Charming, which is now available at Books To Go Now. Back To You followed, which is now available from Bradley Publishing.

I have made successful leaps from avid reader, to reviewer, to finally, writer. But everyone’s journey is individual. Not all reviewers will become writers, not all writers review. When people ask me, how did you know you wanted to review? How did you know you wanted to write? I tell them my truth. For me, it was a burn inside of me that would not let up until I started reviewing, until I started writing. Each reader, reviewer, and writer must follow her own path to personal satisfaction.

About the author:
Natalie-Nicole Bates is a book reviewer and author. Her passions in life include books and hockey along with Victorian and Edwardian era photography. Natalie contributes her uncharacteristic love of hockey to being born in Russia. She currently resides in the UK where she is working on her next book and adding to her collection of 19th century post-mortem photos.

You can find Natalie on her website, Twitter, and Facebook.

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Crater Lake by Steve Westover - Review

Crater Lake: Battle for Wizard Island by Steve Westover
Expected publication: March 13, 2012
Publisher: Sweetwater Books, an imprint of Cedar Fort

While visiting his crazy Uncle Bart at Crater Lake National Park, thirteen-year-old Ethan's world collapses when all the adults at Crater Lake disappear, including his parents. Now Ethan must rally his new friends and decipher the legends of Crater Lake to find the key to rescuing his parents from their earthen prison before he's captured too and their captivity becomes permanent.

My review:
Five kids are left on their own in Crater National Park when everyone over the age of 16 is swallowed up by the ground. Ethan, Jordan (Ethan's little sister), Brady, Allie, and Jacob must go to some extraordinary measures led by an unlikely source to save everyone by a certain time or they will be trapped forever.

Crater Lake started off a little confusing for me. I had trouble following what was going on and all of the different characters. After the initial part, the story progresses smoothly and has a lot of twists and turns to grab your attention. Some of the children don't like each other, and other ones don't even know each other, but they have to learn how to get along and work together to save the adults and themselves. Along the way, they have to test their physical and mental limitations and figure out what they can believe and who they can trust. Steve Westover has created a world that is very imaginative and full of adventure and mystery. Overall, I think it is a good book for older middle-grade and the younger YA readers.

A copy was provided by the publisher for review.
 
About the author:
Steve Westover has always enjoyed writing, but he had never even considered writing a novel until one morning he woke up with the idea for some characters in his mind. He was curious if he could write a book so he thought he would give it a shot as an experiment.

After a long process of writing, nearly giving up mid-way through, editing, shopping for a publisher, changing the title and editing some more, his first book, Defensive Tactics, is being published through Cedar Fort on the Bonneville Books imprint, and will be in stores in August 2010.

Crater Lake: Battle for Wizard Island is his second book and was written with his oldest daughter and son in mind. They are avid readers who turned him on to books like Fablehaven and Percy Jackson and the Olympians, which he really enjoys. So, as a father trying to please his children, he wrote Crater Lake for them. 

You can find out more about Steve Westover and Crater Lake on his site, blog, and the Book Poster page.

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Concealed by Sang Kromah - Fun Facts & Excerpt

Concealed by Sang Kromah
Published: October 2011
Published by: The Little Things Publishing

Concealed Fun Facts
1.)    The background story for Concealed is a story that I started to develop as a little girl. It has changed so much since I first started to create it in the first grade.

2.)    Concealed takes place in the town I grew up in (Sykesville) and at the high school I went to. I thought, what better way to make the story more authentic than writing about the place I spent my teenage years? Of course I embellished A LOT, but hey, it’s fiction! 

3.)    When I first decided to write Concealed, Sebastian was British instead of Australian, and then I thought I’d be crazy for not making him Australian. I’ve had this life-long obsession with Australia my entire life. So while I wrote, I’d watch a lot of Aussie TV to help authenticate the lingo and slang, and now I’m even more obsessed.

4.)    When I was a kid, my parents told me a story about a Djinn and a little girl named, Femeni from their native country of Liberia, and I could never get that story out of my head, so I would write my own stories about Femeni for years until one day, I wrote a story about Femeni having a daughter, and that story is Concealed. 

5.)    Many of the characters in Concealed are named after people I know or have met before, but no one is anything like their character, except for Moh, who is named after my younger brother, Moh.

6.)    Writing Concealed is the reason I have such horrible insomnia. The creation of Bijou’s dreams and visions was the death of sleep for me.

7.)    A lot of times as I write, I feel guilty for the horrible things I do to my characters. You would think I hate them or something.

8.)    Like Bijou—I’ve spent most of my life being socially awkward, but Bijou is a whole different realm of weird.

9.) Bijou’s entire life has pretty much been lived vicariously through movie, TV, and literary characters, so she’s like a walking, talking pop culture reference book.

10.) Writing Concealed has made me somewhat crazy…I think. It’s seriously done some sort of damage. ;-)

Excerpt

Chapter 10: Whistling in the Dark I opened my mouth to continue, when suddenly my eyes began fluttering lazily as an intoxicating haze surrounded me and I was no longer surrounded by my peers. The fire was gone and my only companion was the heavy fog that hid my surroundings from me. Off in the distance, I saw a figure standing with its back towards me. “Who’s there?” I yelled. The figure did not answer; neither did it flinch at the sound of my voice. I waited for a few more moments, but still…nothing. Then I heard an odd noise. Someone was whistling. I got to my feet and began walking towards the figure. The figure did not stir in the least, though I am sure that my approach was heard. As I got closer, I could see that the figure was an unusually tall man wearing dark clothing; the broad shoulders made his gender clearly obvious. His head hung low, so I couldn’t make out any other features. I slowed my pace; not wanting to get too close to this strange man, and the whistling grew louder and louder. “Excuse me sir, but is everything alright?” I asked, now only a few feet from this odd individual…still no answer. He just continued standing there with his back turned as he continued to whistle louder and louder. And then it hit me; I had heard that song before, long, long ago, but where? The tune was so familiar, yet it was like a distant memory; maybe even from a dream. “I’m looking for my friends. They were here just a little while ago…” He cut me off midsentence. “Do you know what is said of whistling in the dark?” He asked in a hushed tone that made the hairs on the back of my neck to rise. “Um no… I’m sorry I don’t know. I just need to find my friends, so I can get home.” I responded, slowly becoming aware that I may be in danger. “Everyone?” His rhetoric was followed by a dark and sinister laugh. “Do you know your true home? You’re neither here nor there. So tell me, where do you belong?” This man spoke in riddles. I was now officially confused. If I were a smart person, I would run away now! But there was a deafening silence as I contemplated whether to speak or not. I thought about slowly backing away from this frightening man, but my legs failed to obey. The man slowly began to turn around, his head still bent. This has to be one of my dreams. When he lifts his head, I’m sure it will be Sebastian, and then I will awaken. But when he faced me, I still could not see his face. It hung very low, and the whistling began once again. This time something even stranger began to happen. It was as if I were on the outside looking in. I was watching myself and had no control over my own actions. I began walking closer to him. STOP! I tried telling myself, but it was no use. I was no longer in the driver’s seat. I began humming the beautiful melody in harmony with him. I watched as my eyes closed and my mouth opened. I began singing in a voice that I didn’t recognize, “ce billet doux est toi, mon bijou.” My eyes suddenly opened and my outer body experience ended; once again, I was in control. “Ce billet doux est toi, mon bijou,” I repeated, talking this time—not singing. Where did those words come from? He continued whistling as I repeated the words to myself in French. “This love letter is yours, my jewel,” I finally translated. Where had I heard this song before? “So indeed it is you!” I said nothing in return. “You still offer me no answer to my first question,” he said. His voice was disturbing. “What question?” My voice was raw, as if I hadn’t spoken in a long while. “Do you know what is said of whistling in the dark?” He sounded as if his patience were worn. “No, I don’t,” I answered hesitantly. He began to sway from side to side. I fought hard to catch a glimpse of his face, but saw nothing. I shouldn’t even be conversing with this weirdo. Dread rose in my chest causing it to ache. “Whistling in the dark is an invitation for the djinn to enter,” he said in a whisper. “The djinn? They’re not real.” As the words left my mouth, I had a feeling I was wrong. “They’re as real as you and me,” he answered, reaching out for me. “Sebastian, is that you?” I asked, still trying to see his face. He did not answer. He grabbed my right wrist with hot hands and in that moment I knew this was not the boy from my dreams. “Let go! You’re hurting me.” I fought hard, trying to free myself from his grasp, but he was too strong. The heat from his hand burned my wrist so badly I began to think I would see smoke. “So the traitor has a name,” he yelled, his voice grew loud with curiosity. “Sebastian, is it?” The stranger pulled me closer, my back facing him as his grip tightened. But something made him scream in absolute horror, forcing him to release me from the chokehold. He screeched—obviously in some sort of pain—an imprint of an eye branded on his arm. I ran, but my legs wouldn’t move as fast as I willed them to. Although I could not hear him pursuing me, I could feel his presence near. The smell of sulfur was strong. My legs were tired now and I was completely out of breath. I stopped running, resting my hands on my knees—my breaths coming rapidly. I realized that I was back where I started—the sight of the bon fire—but the fog was gone now. “I am weak, but you have revealed the traitor to me.” “Bijou!” My eyes opened widely and I gasped for air as if I had been holding my breath all the while. I looked around, Sebastian to my left and Amina to my right. Everyone was once again sitting around the large bonfire. Where had they all come from?

You can find Sang Kromah on her site and Twitter.
To see the book blurb, please visit GoodReads.

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Airel-Arson-Pyxis Blog Tour - Review & Giveaways

This blog tour features 3 books, Airel by Aaron Patterson & Chris White, Arson by Estevan Vega, and Pyxis by K.C. Neal. Please see below for my review of Pyxis and for details on how to win a signed copy of Pyxis and for more information on how to win copies of all 3 books, swag, and even a Kindle!

Airel by Aaron Patterson & Chris White 
$2.99 on Amazon.com | £2.21 on Amazon UK
Airel is a story about an angel who falls so deeply in love with a woman that he chooses to fall from heaven to be with her. She gives birth to a daughter in Arabia, 1250BC. The girl is pursued ferociously, relentlessly by an enemy in the deepest darkness. In present day Boise, Idaho is just a girl: Airel. She's just your average high school student...who turns out to be anything but average. It's because of who she is, because of her ancestry, because of her lineage. Past and present crash in on each other in the final pages as what has been twisted comes dangerously unraveled.

Arson by Estevan Vega
99c Amazon.com | 86p on Amazon UK
Arson Gable feels like a freak. He can create fire. He never asked for it. He never wanted it. But he can't shut it off. Before now, three things were true: he both loved and despised his grandmother; his life was going nowhere; and he was alone. But when a strange girl--who feels more normal behind a mask than inside her own skin--moves in next door, Arson hopes to find something he's never had: purpose. Using what he fears most about himself, Arson must face his consuming past and confront the nightmare that is his present as he walks the fine line between boy and monster.

Pyxis by K.C. Neal
99c on Amazon.com | 86p on Amazon UK
Corinne lives an average teenage life working at her dad’s cafe, hanging out with her best friend, and trying to forget a falling-out with her almost-boyfriend Mason. Things take a strange turn when she uses her late grandmother’s food dyes for a bake sale, and her customers suddenly find her irresistibly alluring. Then she discovers she and Mason are haunted by the same dreams of a dark force that consumes everything in its path. Pursued by shadowy figures and a crazy woman with secrets from the past, Corinne must find out who her grandmother really was. In her quest to unravel her family’s history, she learns she is destined to protect this world--and the dark world of her dreams. She races to find the answers she seeks before her nightmares break free.

My review of Pyxis:
Corinne uses some food dyes that belonged to her late grandmother in some items she makes for a school bake sale. Only they are not really food dyes, and the students who eat the baked goods begin acting strangely. While investigating what the liquids really are and why they cause people to act differently, Corinne begins uncovering secrets which involve her. However, the only person who can give her the information she needs is her Aunt Dorothy, who has not been in her right mind and in a retirement home since the death of Corinne's grandmother.

Pyxis is the first book in the series and only the beginning of the story. In this one, Corinne discovers the pyxis and her starts finding out her role in all of it. We get to know Corinne, Ang, and Mason and are set up for the continuation of the story. Once you read this one, you will definitely want to read the next in the series. K.C. Neal has an easy to read writing style and has well developed characters. The story is engaging and provides a lot of suspense. I enjoyed reading Pyxis and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys YA fantasy.

A copy was provided by the author for review.

About the author of Pyxis:
Young adult fantasy author K.C. Neal is repped by herself and published by StoneHouse Ink. Her debut novel, Pyxis: The Discovery, has received enthusiastic praise from readers.

Most of her days are filled with some combination of writing, reading, gardening, working, and watching stuff on Netflix with her husband and their maltipoo, Oscar. She has an irrational fixation with L.A., and during occasional trips there she pretends her life is more glamorous than it really is ("Entourage" is her guilty pleasure). She likes to surf and hang out on sandy beaches, where drinks are served adorned with tiny umbrellas.

Giveaway:
One SIGNED copy of Pyxis by K.C. Neal. To enter, just fill out the form below.

Giveaway details:
U.S. only. This giveaway will run until midnight EST on February 1. Must be 13 or older to enter. Winner will be chosen using Random.org. Winner will be emailed and this blog post will be updated to include the name of the winner. Winner has 3 days to contact me or a new winner will be selected.

You can also win copies of the other books, swag, and there is a grand prize of a Kindle. Click here for more details.

Sorry! This giveaway is now closed.

Winner: Jessica M.

Interview with Terri Giuliano Long - In Leah's Wake

In Leah's Wake by Terri Giuliano Long
Published: October 2010

Protecting their children comes naturally for Zoe and Will Tyler—until their daughter Leah decides to actively destroy her own future.
 
Leah grew up in a privileged upper-middle class world. Her parents spared no expense for her happiness; she had all-but secured an Ivy League scholarship and a future as a star athlete. Then she met Todd.

Leah’s parents watch helplessly as their daughter falls into a world of drugs, sex, and wild parties. While Will attempts to control his daughter’s every move to prevent her from falling deeper into this dangerous new life, Zoe prefers to give Leah slack in the hope that she may learn from her mistakes. Their divided approach drives their daughter out of their home and a wedge into their marriage.

Twelve-year-old Justine observes Leah’s rebellion from the shadows of their fragmented family. She desperately seeks her big sister’s approval and will do whatever it takes to obtain it. Meanwhile she is left to question whether her parents love her and whether God even knows she exists.

What happens when love just isn’t enough? Who will pay the consequences of Leah’s vagrant lifestyle? Can this broken family survive the destruction left in Leah’s wake?

Interview with Terri Giuliano Long:

How did you get the idea for In Leah's Wake?
Years ago, while working for the town paper, I wrote a series of feature articles about families with drug- and alcohol-addicted teens. The moms talked candidly about their children, their struggles. Their heartbreaking stories stayed with me.

When I began writing In Leah's Wake my own daughters were teens. Most families experience conflict during their children's teenage years. As kids grow up and begin to make their own way in the world, it’s natural for them to rebel. We’re no different from most families, though any conflicts we experienced were tame - nothing remotely like the problems and challenges the Tylers face in the book.

As a parent, I knew how it felt to be scared, concerned for your children’s future. I now recognize this as the primary force driving this story. My work with families, my personal experiences and core beliefs – all these things played on my conscious and subconscious mind, and ultimately emerged as this book.

How long did it take you to write In Leah's Wake?
I wrote the first draft in three months. It was my MFA thesis, so I was under the gun. The writing was dreadful, but it was a breathy process; when I finished, I knew the characters and the novel had a general shape. I spent the next several years immersed in the book - revising, developing the characters. I spent all day with these imaginary people, and they took over my dreams. I almost believed they were alive, that Cortland, the imaginary town, was a real place. It was an adventure, and I loved every minute. Total, start to finish, about five years.

Have you written or are you currently writing any other books?
I’m currently at work on a psychological thriller with a historical twist.

Nowhere to Run takes place in the White Mountains in northern New Hampshire. A year after the brutal murder of her six-year-old daughter, Abby Minot, formerly an award-winning writer, accepts her first assignment—a profile of the philanthropic Chase family, kin of the popular New Hampshire senator and presidential hopeful, Matthias Chase.

In her initial research, Abby glimpses darkness under the Chase family’s shiny veneer. Digging deeper, she uncovers a shocking web of lies and betrayal, dating back to the nineteenth century. Abby soon finds herself trapped—between an editor obsessed with uncovering the truth and the town and family who will stop at nothing to ensure it stays hidden. I hope to finish the novel this fall.

How long have you been writing?
I’ve been a writer all my life. As a young child, to entertain myself I made up stories and plays. In high school, I worked as a stringer for the town paper - my first paid writing job - and I loved every minute. They paid me ten cents a word. Within a few months, I was offered a column, called “High school news.” I wrote about anything that occurred to me or that I considered interesting, really. People actually read the column. That was exciting – and it launched my writing career.

When my children were young, I wrote news and feature articles for a local and regional paper, edited technical articles for trade magazines, and wrote marketing and web copy. In 1996, I began teaching at Boston College. In the late nineties, I turned my attention to writing fiction. Early on, I’ve published several short stories in lit magazines. In Leah’s Wake is my first novel. Nowhere to Run will be my second full-length work of fiction.

What is the best thing that has happened as a result of your book being published?
When I first published In Leah’s Wake, I had no clue as to what I was doing. Stupidly, too embarrassed to self-promote, I posted the book on Amazon. That was it. I mean really it – not even my parents knew I’d published the book!

I sold two copies in October, four in November, and thirty-four in December. By March, with sales lagging, and I realized that, if I didn’t do something, my book would die. In early March, I began blogging and activated my Twitter account.

Once I got used to the idea that marketing didn’t have to mean shameless self- promotion, 24/7, I actually began to enjoy it. Since May, I’ve sold over 75,000 books. Getting there took a lot of hard work and dedication, and I’m proud of that accomplishment. Publishing In Leah’s Wake forced me out of my comfort zone. I had to learn to respect and value my work and share it with other people. It was hard and it took time to figure it all out. But it’s the best thing I’ve ever done for myself. I’ve also had the great good fortune of meeting many wonderful people!

What are your other interests and hobbies?
Hands down, my favorite activity is spending time with my family. They are the most important people in my life. Without them, nothing else matters.

I enjoy walking and I’m a passionate traveller and foodie. My husband, Dave, and I have had the pleasure of visiting many interesting places over the years. I love ethnic food and I’m fairly gutsy when it comes to trying new dishes. In Beijing, a few years ago, we went to a tiny restaurant with two students. The restaurant was a local hangout, as opposed to a tourist trap. Because the menu was written in Chinese, our friends ordered for us. When the bowl arrived, I dipped my chopsticks into the stew – and pulled out a frog. Its head had been removed, thank goodness, but the body was fully intact. I realize that a lot of people eat frog; this was my first time. And it was green. Dave shot a look my way. A few days before, I’d eaten fish from a lake that was so polluted that the water was a weird fluorescent aqua. (Before the 2008 Olympics, Time magazine published a photo of thousands of people in canoes, clearing algae from that lake.) To his credit, my husband was discreet. I don’t think our friends even noticed “the look.”

If I were not a fiction writer and teacher, I’d might be an international food writer.

If In Leah's Wake was turned into a movie, who would be in your dream cast?
Will Tyler – Matt Damon. Mr. Damon exudes fatherly love and protectiveness and he’s also very intense. If his daughter were in trouble, I can picture him going into overdrive, like Will, and doing whatever it takes to pull her back.

Zoe Tyler – Sandra Bullock. I see her as loving, driven and ditzy, a less strident version of Leigh Anne Tuohy, the mom she played in The Blind Side.

Leah Tyler – For the role of Leah, I’d search for new talent. Caroline Wakefield, as played by Erika Christensen, in the film Traffic, reminded me of Leah, in her all-American beauty and stunning transformation from preppy to drug-addicted prostitute. Ms. Christensen is too old for this role, but she’d be the prototype.

Justine Tyler – Abigail Breslin. Like Justine, she’s sweet and dorky and cute. She’s also precocious and strong.

Jerry Johnson – Vince Vaughn. He’s not the guy who walks into a room and gets the girl, but he’s centered and responsible, the rock for the others to lean on.

Todd Corbett (Leah’s boyfriend) – Jordan Masek. Jordan plays the role of Todd in my trailer. Jordan is actually a sweet guy, in real life. But he knows how to channel his inner bad boy. I can’t imagine a more appropriately cast Todd.

Also, please tell us a fun, random fact about yourself. Just anything you would like.
I’m a closet nerd. On the outside, I appear cool and relaxed, but inside I’m actually very shy; before a public appearance, I’m anxious for days. I’m also a choc-o-holic and a shoe whore.


About the author:
Terri Giuliano Long is the bestselling author of the novel In Leah’s Wake. Her life outside of books is devoted to her family. In her free time, she enjoys walking, traveling, and listening to music. True to her Italian-American heritage, she’s an enthusiastic cook. In an alternate reality, she might be an international food writer. She lives with her family on the East Coast and teaches at Boston College. In Leah’s Wake is her debut novel.

You can find Terri on her site, blog, and Twitter.

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