Today I get to share an interview from Errin Stevens in regards to book three in her Siren series. I've really enjoyed working with Errin over the past several years, and was excited to get the next installment. I apologize for things being a bit rushed. The new motherhood thing has totally taken over my life, but please be sure to read through to the interview from Errin at the bottom of the post.
The Mer Chronicles. Book 3: Outrush
Author: Errin Stevens
Summary from Amazon.com
"Falling, falling... Maya was airborne again, suspended between a landless platform above and an inscrutable expanse of water below. Maya's headlong rush into marriage isn't working out... and it isn't the only collision course she's on these days. Her saltwater distractions aside, her father-in-law wants her gunned down for reasons unknown, and her pesky bodyguard - when he's around - seems intent on drowning her in want and regret. Maya is desperate to hold onto any small part of herself she understands. When escape becomes her only option, she finds herself in a race against a past - and a man - she can't outrun.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/Outrush-Mer-Chronicles-Book-3- ebook/dp/B07MK3YKXR Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43599011-outrush
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Errin Stevens writes paranormal romance from her home in Minnesota, where she lives with her husband and son. When not wrestling with unruly narrative – or reading everything from mythology to contemporary romance to New Adult suspense – you’ll find her swooning over seed catalogs (winter), or digging in the garden (the other three days of the year). Visit the blog for release updates and random essays on writing and mothering.
AUTHOR LINKS:
Website: http://errinstevens.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/author.errin.stevens
Twitter: https://twitter.com/errinstevens Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/errinstevens
GIVEAWAY http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/050c6a3b21/?
TOUR SCHEDULE:
June 3rd: Jen (http://www.happylilbooknook.com)
June 4: Sarah (http://www.transientdrifter.blogspot.com) & Interview
June 6: Destiny (https://afountainofbooks.blogspot.com/)
June 8: Charlotte S. (http://www.instagram.com/bookishnomad)
June 9: Marianna (https://mariannareads.wordpress.com)
June 10: Yahaira (http://www.instagram.com/thejubilantreader)
June 12: Aisha (https://aishaereads.tumblr.com)
June 13: Jordan (http://www.readbyroe.com)
June 14: Stephanie (http://www.instagram.com/shutupnread)
June 15: Jackie (http://dauntlessbooksandpenguins.wordpress.com)
June 16: Leanetta ( http://www.instagram.com/leanettascott08 )
Blog Tour Organized by: Happy Lil Book Tours *Hosts were provided with a copy of the book for review purposes in exchange for their honest reviews and opinions.
Interview questions:
1.) How does it feel to have your third book baby out in the world?
I feel better than I ever have after letting this one leave the nest, and I'm not sure why? I had such a case of the baby blues with the first two! Perhaps because I feel like, with Outrush in the mix, there's at last an aggregate, or maybe several places for your imagination to go. I hope people will find the added breadth satisfying. And I'm ever so pleased to have told Maya's story, which I wanted to do in book two... but Simon and Sylvia staged a coup in my brain.
2.) Do you feel like things have changed in your writing process over the course of the series? Has it gotten easier or more difficult to carry on your story lines?
Writing is hard for me, and while I'm quicker to recognize soft spots in my thinking than I used to be, I still have to mull and refine and rework a ton to feel satisfied with what I develop. But the world-building is set; I have characters I can do more with/develop a story line for if I choose; and I really feel like I've been able to play as I've wanted within my chosen genre. I.e., Updrift was more character-driven, Breakwater more plot-driven, and Outrush is a balance although slightly more focused on character.
3.) Can you give us some behind the scenes insights about your characters in Outrush?
I like to think all of my characters flirt (or worse) with deviance but act in a way that doesn't harm my readers... and by that I mean devastate or sadden. I pushed these boundaries more in Outrush, giving one of my characters a serious addiction and leading another to actively plan my heroine's murder but still kept to my hurt-less values, which I think makes the ending more satisfying. The love story in this one is richer to me, too, because by now, I've watched Maya grow up; and we get to see Aiden become everything a romantic hero should be.
4.) How many more books can we expect in the series?
One for sure - I'm in the EARLY stages of drafting Crosstide - and I might like to mine some of the story lines I started in Breakwater. I'm thinking a little about a west coast series... and I promise that you'll know more when I do!
Tuesday, June 4, 2019
Monday, February 11, 2019
Girl, Keep Fighting Blog Tour
Wow, it's been pretty much forever since I've been on here...Lots of life changes and all that good stuff, but I won't go into all the details right now. Just wanted to share a little tour info for you all. I'll put my personal review down at the end.
Title: Girl, Keep Fighting
Author: Channon Bailey
Synopsis From Amazon.com:
This is for the girl who’s ever been told no. This is for the girl who still holds a dream in her heart. This is for the girl who has to do what she has to do. This is for the girl who won’t give up. This is for the girl who still believes in fairy tales. This is for the girl who knows she is worth more. This is for the girl who wants a life to call her own. This is for you. Girl, keep fighting.
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43686285-girl-keep-fighting?from_search=true
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Girl-Keep-Fighting-Break-Dreams/dp/1793498881/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1548268230&sr=8-1&keywords=channon+bailey
—————————————————————————————————————-
Want a free digital copy of "Girl, Keep Fighting?" Head over to http://www.channonbailey.com and subscribe for your free copy of this amazing book. What are you waiting for?
—————————————————————————————————————-
About the Author:
I love to tell people that I'm an Outlander & GLOW fanboy (cause I freakin' LOVE those shows!) who built a career coaching men and then threw in the towel... "exchanged" is a much better word... to fight for women.
I love that I almost closed the door on my businesses too many times to count, and now I am living my dream by doing what the heck I want.
I love that so many people (including every family member and friend) told me no, and I am living proof that you gotta do what you gotta do.
I love that I learned there's a difference between sex and love-making, and I have a "Wonder Woman" of a wife and three awesome + one on the way kids to prove it.
I love that I quit the 9-5 so I can work from 7 in the morning to noon or 10 at night through midnight cause my brain seems to work better at those times.
I love the day I got my rock star confidence back and knew the world was a much better place living my life and not someone else's.
I love Mexican food and sushi. Yum! (Yes, it's that important to include here!) Coffee too!
I love that my biggest fear isn't failure, being worried about what someone thinks, taking risks, or not winning. My BIGGEST fear is not doing what I know I'm supposed to.
And, finally? I love that I can show you the same.
:SOCIAL MEDIA:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/therealchannonbailey/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/TheRealChannonBailey/
website: https://www.channonbailey.com
—————————————————————————————————————-
TOUR SCHEDULE:
Feb 11th: Sarah (http://www.transientdrifter.blogspot.com)
Feb 12th:Jordan (http://www.readbyroe.wordpress.com)
Feb 13th:Jessica (http://www.crossroadreviews.com)
Feb 14th: Rubina (http://readdayandnight.blogspot.com)
Feb 15th:Jen (http://www.happylilbooknook.com)
Feb 16th: Yahaira (http://www.instagram.com/thejubilantreader)
Feb 17th: Leanetta (http://www.instagram.com/leanettascott08)
Feb 19th: Emily (https://goandgetemblog.wordpress.com)
Feb 20th:Misty (http://www.mistysbookspace.wordpress.com)
Feb 22nd:Kayla (http://www.sundaymorningcoffee.net)
Feb. 23rd:Allison (http://www.mynovelife.com)
Feb 24th:Jackie (http://dauntlessbooksandpenguins.wordpress.com)
*Hosts are provided a copy of the book for free in exchange for their honest review.
Personal thoughts:
I thought this book was a good idea, but not really quite right for me personally. There were some editing errors, and I felt like a lot of it was so focused on the personal experiences of the author, which are nothing like my own, that it was sometimes hard to totally get the point. I'm not a man from a dysfunctional family, so it was a little hard to connect...
Anyhow, I can see where it would be very helpful to people who are a bit younger and still trying to figure out where they're going in life. I have a couple of copies that I'll be offering up in a giveaway on my instagram account soon if anyone is interested.
Title: Girl, Keep Fighting
Author: Channon Bailey
Synopsis From Amazon.com:
This is for the girl who’s ever been told no. This is for the girl who still holds a dream in her heart. This is for the girl who has to do what she has to do. This is for the girl who won’t give up. This is for the girl who still believes in fairy tales. This is for the girl who knows she is worth more. This is for the girl who wants a life to call her own. This is for you. Girl, keep fighting.
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43686285-girl-keep-fighting?from_search=true
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Girl-Keep-Fighting-Break-Dreams/dp/1793498881/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1548268230&sr=8-1&keywords=channon+bailey
—————————————————————————————————————-
Want a free digital copy of "Girl, Keep Fighting?" Head over to http://www.channonbailey.com and subscribe for your free copy of this amazing book. What are you waiting for?
—————————————————————————————————————-
About the Author:
I love to tell people that I'm an Outlander & GLOW fanboy (cause I freakin' LOVE those shows!) who built a career coaching men and then threw in the towel... "exchanged" is a much better word... to fight for women.
I love that I almost closed the door on my businesses too many times to count, and now I am living my dream by doing what the heck I want.
I love that so many people (including every family member and friend) told me no, and I am living proof that you gotta do what you gotta do.
I love that I learned there's a difference between sex and love-making, and I have a "Wonder Woman" of a wife and three awesome + one on the way kids to prove it.
I love that I quit the 9-5 so I can work from 7 in the morning to noon or 10 at night through midnight cause my brain seems to work better at those times.
I love the day I got my rock star confidence back and knew the world was a much better place living my life and not someone else's.
I love Mexican food and sushi. Yum! (Yes, it's that important to include here!) Coffee too!
I love that my biggest fear isn't failure, being worried about what someone thinks, taking risks, or not winning. My BIGGEST fear is not doing what I know I'm supposed to.
And, finally? I love that I can show you the same.
:SOCIAL MEDIA:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/therealchannonbailey/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/TheRealChannonBailey/
website: https://www.channonbailey.com
—————————————————————————————————————-
TOUR SCHEDULE:
Feb 11th: Sarah (http://www.transientdrifter.blogspot.com)
Feb 12th:Jordan (http://www.readbyroe.wordpress.com)
Feb 13th:Jessica (http://www.crossroadreviews.com)
Feb 14th: Rubina (http://readdayandnight.blogspot.com)
Feb 15th:Jen (http://www.happylilbooknook.com)
Feb 16th: Yahaira (http://www.instagram.com/thejubilantreader)
Feb 17th: Leanetta (http://www.instagram.com/leanettascott08)
Feb 19th: Emily (https://goandgetemblog.wordpress.com)
Feb 20th:Misty (http://www.mistysbookspace.wordpress.com)
Feb 22nd:Kayla (http://www.sundaymorningcoffee.net)
Feb. 23rd:Allison (http://www.mynovelife.com)
Feb 24th:Jackie (http://dauntlessbooksandpenguins.wordpress.com)
*Hosts are provided a copy of the book for free in exchange for their honest review.
Personal thoughts:
I thought this book was a good idea, but not really quite right for me personally. There were some editing errors, and I felt like a lot of it was so focused on the personal experiences of the author, which are nothing like my own, that it was sometimes hard to totally get the point. I'm not a man from a dysfunctional family, so it was a little hard to connect...
Anyhow, I can see where it would be very helpful to people who are a bit younger and still trying to figure out where they're going in life. I have a couple of copies that I'll be offering up in a giveaway on my instagram account soon if anyone is interested.
Tuesday, December 19, 2017
Monsters of Selkirk book 2 Blog Tour
It's the crazy season. Let there be no denial. So I definitely have not had a chance to finish reading this book, but I am in the midst, and I'm curious to see where Tallis and her little crew are going to wind up next. I read book one earlier this year, and, if you read down through the fun author interview you'll learn that there is still quite a ways to go to find out the ultimate conclusion of Tallis and her monsters...
TOUR SCHEDULE:
Dec. 18th:
Jen (http://www.happylilbooknook.com)
Dec. 19th:
Sarah (http://www.transientdrifter.blogspot.com)
Dec. 20th:
Paige G.
(http://www.popthebutterfly.wordpress.com)
Dec. 21st:
Jess (https://xlittlebookwormx.wordpress.com)
Dec. 22nd:
Kat (http://www.instagram.com/katsbookstagram)
Dec. 23rd:
Kira (http://thelonelybookclub.blogspot.com)
Blog Tour Organized by: Happy Lil Book Tours
*Hosts were provided with a copy of the book for review purposes in exchange for their honest reviews and opinions.*
Title:
The Monster of Selkirk Book 2: The Heart of the Forest
By: C.E. Clayton
Synopsis from Amazon.com: Tallis is learning how to deal with loss and violence as she and her friends traverse the forests of Selkirk trying to find the reason behind the elven uprising. Not to mention why they keep hissing her name. But the further into the forests they go, Tallis is finding that the elves' depravity can still surprise her and thoroughly test the bonds of friendship, family, and love. Tallis's journey eventually leads to answers they're not prepared for. Now Tallis begins to wonder just who she really is, and if she's the evil that will end up destroying Selkirk. But she cannot stop processing these revelations, as an unforeseen betrayal lands those she loves at the feet of the very monster responsible for all the hurt and heartbreak.
Coming face to face with her foe, Tallis discovers all too late she has no idea how to deal with this level of pain and death. One way or another, the monster's path ends here, and all Tallis can hope to do is bring those she loves safely out of the heart of the forest.
Amazon Link:
https://www.amazon.com/Monster-Selkirk-Book-Heart-Forest-
ebook/dp/B075J7J42D/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1513581703&sr=8-
2&keywords=the+monster+of+selkirk
Goodreads Link:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36221912-the-monster-of-selkirk-book-
ii
_____________________________________________________________________________
SPOTIFY PLAYLIST CODE:
SPOTIFY PLAYLIST LINK:
https://open.spotify.com/user/121402516/playlist/5y7UnUZSUR9rGR2uqHMpRp
_____________________________________________________________________________
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
C.E. Clayton was born and raised in Southern California where she worked in the advertising industry for several years on accounts that ranged from fast food, to cars, and video games (her personal favorite). This was before she packed up her life, husband, two displeased cats, and one very confused dog and moved to New Orleans. Now, she is a full-time writer (mainly in the fantasy genre), her cats are no longer as displeased, and her dog no longer confused. More about C.E. Clayton, including her blog, book reviews, and poetry, can be found on her website: http://www.ceclayton.com
MEET AUTHOR C.E. CLAYTON DEC 23, 2017 @ Pasadena,
CA
...
Click here for more details:
https://www.facebook.com/events/136617837043098/
AUTHOR LINKS:
Website:
http://www.ceclayton.com/
Instagram:
http://www.instagram.com/chelscey
_____________________________________________________________________________
GIVEAWAY:
a
Rafflecopter giveaway
Now for the fun author interview :)
1.) When you started writing The Monsters of Selkirk did you expect it to be a series?
I did! I just didn't know how long of a series it would be. I knew what the ultimate ending would need to be, and the final conflict. I just was not sure how many books it'd take me to get there (the answer is 6)
2.) In what ways did your writing strategies change with writing this sequel?
I hate writing recap chapters, probably because I hate reading them (and watching them). But, I can't control when someone will read my books so I had to find ways to remind readers of what happened in the previous book without writing something I wasn't a fan of, or something as cliche as "Previously, in the Monster of Selkirk..." which meant that I had to determine which details were the most important from the previous book to bring forward into the sequels. Then, I had to do that for book 3, and 4 and so on, so it becomes a ladder of which points in each book are vital to tease in the subsequent books. Which means I make good old fashioned lists and bullet points so I can better keep track of those parts moving forward. I know a lot of people like those recap chapters, but I hope that my world and characters are distinct enough to where, once you dive back in, it feels like you never left and everything comes back to the reader without having to actually go back to previous books.
3.) Did you find writing book two to be more or less difficult than book one?
In terms of flow, it was easier to write. The backstory was in place and now all the craziness could begin, and writing those parts was a lot of fun and tended to just flow right out of me. But there are more difficult situations in the second book, things that are emotionally more difficult to write and convey in the right ways. So it was easier in that I got into a great rhythm while writing, but difficult at times because of WHAT I was writing.
4.) Which of your characters do you find to be the most likely to do something unpredictable when you’re writing?
Rosslyn, hands down. She's such a free spirit and I love it, but she tends to ruin my little outlines when I'm writing her as the character will steer me in directions I hadn't considered, but love once it gets going. Sometimes Tallis is that way too, but not as much as Rosslyn.
5.) If you could spend the day with one of your characters who would you choose and what would you do?
For as fun as Rosslyn is, I'd want to hang out with Tallis so she could teach me how to fight the way she does. I wrote her to be awesome, and she is, arguably more-so than I am, with her incredible skill with her trident shaped daggers. I'd love to be able to defend myself like that, and make it look like a dance all at the same time.
6.) Do you have plans for another sequel?
Yup! Book 3 is with the editor now and I have already written books 4-6, though those are all still in the revision / beta reading process. So, basically, the entire series has been written, but now the hard part of editing and revisions have begun!
If there is anything else you would like to share please feel free
I tend to write my books in chunks. Book 1 and 2 are best read together, book 3 will be good all on it's own, book 4 and 5 follow the same path as books 1 and 2 and the last book, well it's the end so everything gets settled there. it may sound confusing, but a lot of that is based on the places Tallis ends up, and how much time she spends there. So there's a little hint about the places Tallis and her friends end up, and how long they stay there!
TOUR SCHEDULE:
Dec. 18th:
Jen (http://www.happylilbooknook.com)
Dec. 19th:
Sarah (http://www.transientdrifter.blogspot.com)
Dec. 20th:
Paige G.
(http://www.popthebutterfly.wordpress.com)
Dec. 21st:
Jess (https://xlittlebookwormx.wordpress.com)
Dec. 22nd:
Kat (http://www.instagram.com/katsbookstagram)
Dec. 23rd:
Kira (http://thelonelybookclub.blogspot.com)
Blog Tour Organized by: Happy Lil Book Tours
*Hosts were provided with a copy of the book for review purposes in exchange for their honest reviews and opinions.*
Title:
The Monster of Selkirk Book 2: The Heart of the Forest
By: C.E. Clayton
Synopsis from Amazon.com: Tallis is learning how to deal with loss and violence as she and her friends traverse the forests of Selkirk trying to find the reason behind the elven uprising. Not to mention why they keep hissing her name. But the further into the forests they go, Tallis is finding that the elves' depravity can still surprise her and thoroughly test the bonds of friendship, family, and love. Tallis's journey eventually leads to answers they're not prepared for. Now Tallis begins to wonder just who she really is, and if she's the evil that will end up destroying Selkirk. But she cannot stop processing these revelations, as an unforeseen betrayal lands those she loves at the feet of the very monster responsible for all the hurt and heartbreak.
Coming face to face with her foe, Tallis discovers all too late she has no idea how to deal with this level of pain and death. One way or another, the monster's path ends here, and all Tallis can hope to do is bring those she loves safely out of the heart of the forest.
Amazon Link:
https://www.amazon.com/Monster-Selkirk-Book-Heart-Forest-
ebook/dp/B075J7J42D/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1513581703&sr=8-
2&keywords=the+monster+of+selkirk
Goodreads Link:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36221912-the-monster-of-selkirk-book-
ii
_____________________________________________________________________________
SPOTIFY PLAYLIST CODE:
SPOTIFY PLAYLIST LINK:
https://open.spotify.com/user/121402516/playlist/5y7UnUZSUR9rGR2uqHMpRp
_____________________________________________________________________________
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
C.E. Clayton was born and raised in Southern California where she worked in the advertising industry for several years on accounts that ranged from fast food, to cars, and video games (her personal favorite). This was before she packed up her life, husband, two displeased cats, and one very confused dog and moved to New Orleans. Now, she is a full-time writer (mainly in the fantasy genre), her cats are no longer as displeased, and her dog no longer confused. More about C.E. Clayton, including her blog, book reviews, and poetry, can be found on her website: http://www.ceclayton.com
MEET AUTHOR C.E. CLAYTON DEC 23, 2017 @ Pasadena,
CA
...
Click here for more details:
https://www.facebook.com/events/136617837043098/
AUTHOR LINKS:
Website:
http://www.ceclayton.com/
Instagram:
http://www.instagram.com/chelscey
_____________________________________________________________________________
GIVEAWAY:
a
Rafflecopter giveaway
Now for the fun author interview :)
1.) When you started writing The Monsters of Selkirk did you expect it to be a series?
I did! I just didn't know how long of a series it would be. I knew what the ultimate ending would need to be, and the final conflict. I just was not sure how many books it'd take me to get there (the answer is 6)
2.) In what ways did your writing strategies change with writing this sequel?
I hate writing recap chapters, probably because I hate reading them (and watching them). But, I can't control when someone will read my books so I had to find ways to remind readers of what happened in the previous book without writing something I wasn't a fan of, or something as cliche as "Previously, in the Monster of Selkirk..." which meant that I had to determine which details were the most important from the previous book to bring forward into the sequels. Then, I had to do that for book 3, and 4 and so on, so it becomes a ladder of which points in each book are vital to tease in the subsequent books. Which means I make good old fashioned lists and bullet points so I can better keep track of those parts moving forward. I know a lot of people like those recap chapters, but I hope that my world and characters are distinct enough to where, once you dive back in, it feels like you never left and everything comes back to the reader without having to actually go back to previous books.
3.) Did you find writing book two to be more or less difficult than book one?
In terms of flow, it was easier to write. The backstory was in place and now all the craziness could begin, and writing those parts was a lot of fun and tended to just flow right out of me. But there are more difficult situations in the second book, things that are emotionally more difficult to write and convey in the right ways. So it was easier in that I got into a great rhythm while writing, but difficult at times because of WHAT I was writing.
4.) Which of your characters do you find to be the most likely to do something unpredictable when you’re writing?
Rosslyn, hands down. She's such a free spirit and I love it, but she tends to ruin my little outlines when I'm writing her as the character will steer me in directions I hadn't considered, but love once it gets going. Sometimes Tallis is that way too, but not as much as Rosslyn.
5.) If you could spend the day with one of your characters who would you choose and what would you do?
For as fun as Rosslyn is, I'd want to hang out with Tallis so she could teach me how to fight the way she does. I wrote her to be awesome, and she is, arguably more-so than I am, with her incredible skill with her trident shaped daggers. I'd love to be able to defend myself like that, and make it look like a dance all at the same time.
6.) Do you have plans for another sequel?
Yup! Book 3 is with the editor now and I have already written books 4-6, though those are all still in the revision / beta reading process. So, basically, the entire series has been written, but now the hard part of editing and revisions have begun!
If there is anything else you would like to share please feel free
I tend to write my books in chunks. Book 1 and 2 are best read together, book 3 will be good all on it's own, book 4 and 5 follow the same path as books 1 and 2 and the last book, well it's the end so everything gets settled there. it may sound confusing, but a lot of that is based on the places Tallis ends up, and how much time she spends there. So there's a little hint about the places Tallis and her friends end up, and how long they stay there!
Tuesday, November 14, 2017
Loud Music Blog Tour
Wow, it's been a while since I posted here. Sorry for the long absence. Honestly, I'm thinking of starting a new blog that is more dedicated to my writing. I will probably keep doing some of these author interviews and book reviews, but I think it is time to have something more professional, rather than my personal blog in order to share with a broader audience. I don't want to totally give this blog up, since it has been a part of me for so long now, but it seems to have mostly run its course, so the new year will most likely see me starting up with a fresh blog.
This blog tour sort of got put off for a while, so I actually read this book a couple of months ago. It was a pretty quick read, that started off a little on the PG13-R rated side, but then settled down into a Hallmark sort of style tale of self discovery and redemption. There were a few elements that surprised me along the way, especially in regards to romance, but I don't want to spoil it. Suffice it to say, there were some surprises along the way.
Be sure to read through to the end for my interview with Gloria :)
Title:
Loud Music: If It Ain't Turned Up... It Ain't Loud Music!
By: Gloria L. Geiger
Synopsis from Amazon.com:
Ryan Davies is the lead singer of America's most popular rock group Loud Music. His face is on just about every magazine cover, website, and news program in the country and around the world. With T.V. endorsements and film offers, Ryan is set to become one of the most famous superstars of all time. That's only on the surface, under it all, there are problems, drugs, alcohol, sex, run-ins with law enforcement and his adorable face on the nightly news reporting yet another embarrassing moment in his life. To top that off, his controlling and money hungry mother still wants control of all things Ryan Davies, including money! His band mates hate him and he has been arrested so many times the jail might as well have a revolving door just for him. All that glitters isn't gold in his life,that is until a court judge decides to make him the example by sending Ryan to work on his estranged father's Kentucky horse ranch.
At first, Ryan thinks this might be the death of him until he meets the family he never knew and starts to form bonds with each of them including a special needs cousin who will teach Ryan that there is more to life than being rich and famous.
Amazon Link:
https://www.amazon.com/Loud-Music-aint-turned-music-
ebook/dp/B074QM5756/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?ie=UTF8&qid=151037687
9&sr=8-1-
fkmr0&keywords=loud+music+by+gloria+l+geiger
Goodreads Link:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36037798-loud-
music?from_search=true
___________________________________________________
EXCERPT: CHAPTER 1
The music is thunderous roaring in my chest and vibrating down to my feet. My body buzzing, itching to move with the beat as the backup dancers come out on stage. Blue, purple and white stage lights along with smoke from the smog machine fill the air as the audience starts screaming and chanting along with Bobby, who raps, "Rock that body, rock it good shake what yo' momma gave ya, promise not to break ya..."
The distinct sweet smell of cannabis wafts towards me on the stage making me want to light up just once before this segment of the show. I follow behind lead choreographer, Benny Henderson, one of my friends on this tour, he’s tatted all over his chest and arms and has large black gauges in his ears, and a buzz-cut so close to his scalp the stage lights gleam off his head. The dancers line up diagonally and wait for me to make my move, and then right on beat, I jump out in front of the dancers as planned to start my choreographed dance. Swaying and stomping to the music with the dancers. A female dancer saunters in front of me, wearing a flesh-colored dress covered in clear sequins and fringe, swaying her hips. She gives me a flirtatious smirk as she runs her finger across my chest. I give her a look that conveys my lustful interest then grab her wrist and spin her into my arms. We begin an insanely fast-paced cha-cha dance as the other dancers follow in suit. The crowd goes nuclear feeding my performers soul. I wink at my dance partner, Chalice, Cherise, Patrice. Whatever, then dip her backwards and kiss her cheek. It’s all part of the show; still, I can feel her melt in my arms.
"Not yet, sweetheart!" I say in her ear then pull herup straight and continue dancing while Bobby’s rapping into his mic. She sways her hips, twisting and turning in step with me.
"Gimme, gimme, give me what I want!" Bobby shouts into his mic as I spin her from my arms and perform a Fred Astaire move with another beautiful redheaded dancer twirling her about like a little shiny spinning top, the fringe of her nude colored dress splaying out from her body catching the stage lights like a human crystal. The music suddenly stops as we stand with our heads down waiting for our cue.
"ONE, TWO, THREE, FOUR!" Bobby shouts and on cue the male back up dancers, dressed in only black leather pants, and I rush toward the audience of screaming teenage girls drop to our knees and skid to a stop, turning sideways, leaning back slightly, and start thrusting our hips as if we are sexing thin air. Then we drop forward into the most inappropriate version of push-ups known to humanity and simulate what we'd do to our girl if she were under us.
On the eight count, we flip over, land in a crab position, and thrust our pelvis skyward giving the girls up front the "do me baby" face. Quickly popping up on my feet I race back toward my mic as Bobby shouts in my ear, "Gonna get someone spontaneously pregnant doing that!" I look at my friend and laugh, seeing the surging and frenzied crowd, gives me feeling of completeness, of being whole.
Performing is like flying. Up here, I am untouchable, I get high off the music, the crowds cheers and screaming, lights and sounds! This is where I am free to be the real Ryan Davies. No one to treat me like a kid without say in his future, only the music, the fans, and my voice...up here, I am king. I am alive and up here I matter, not because of what I can do for someone or what my name will get them.
It's because my fans see me! They know I do this for them and them alone! Up here I feel... loved, something sorely lacking for the past twenty-one years of my life.
Shawn steps forward with his guitar and does some crazy Chuck Berry dance moves then spins and walks back to his place next to Trevor they trade looks then continue bopping their heads to the music. The two of them are crazy talented songwriters.
"Gimme your life, gimme your soul, come on baby I'll eat you whole..." I sing into the mic taking over on vocals again. Funny thing about performing it makes me feel as if I took the happiest of happy pills getting the ultimate high! The bad thing about getting high though is eventually you have to come back down again and the crash is always painful. That will be later...after the show, when it'll be Ryan versus... them, me against my entire world. I wish it were different. I wish it could be as it was when I first joined Loud Music. But we can’t go back in time, can we?
___________________________________________________
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Gloria L. Geiger is a lover of the written word, mostly YA novels. Her love of reading started in elementary school when the librarian introduced her to Louisa May Alcott's Little Women. From that point forward she has been an avid bookworm. Reading books whenever and wherever she could. Asan author, she hopes to inspire others. Always be the sunshine and not the black cloud in someone's day.
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/watswritewithme
Instagram:
http://www.instagram.com/gloria_l_geiger_
___________________________________________________
__________________________
a Rafflecopter
giveaway
___________________________________________________
__________________________
Author Interview
1.) Do you consider your self more of a plotter or a pantser (letting the story just carry you along)?
A little of both.
2.) when you create your characters do you use strict character sketches, or do you find that your characters evolve on their own as you write?
My characters seem to have a mind of their own. Each one wants something and if they don't get it. They whisper in my mind all night long until I give in. They also grow and evolve as the story takes it little twists and turns. I love seeing them even mature a little too.
3.). Can you give us some behind the scenes information about your characters? For instance favorite color, food, celebrity crush, any little bit of information you think might give readers a better understanding of who they are?
FAVORITE FOOD: Ryan Davies actually loves cheese burgers, I mention that in the story when he's at Joeys waiting to order his greasy hangover food.
FAVORITE COLOR: Would probably be purple. Royal purple that is.
CELEBRITY CRUSH: Probably Salina Gomez. Cuz she’s so darn cute.
He's also a deep thinker, has a big heart and is a people pleaser to his own detriment I think.
4.) In Loud Music you have an important character with special needs. What lead you to create this character? Do you have any personal experience with people with special needs that you would like to share?
Actually I do have background with both an autistic cousin and then I was a special needs aid in an elementary school. But Billy just spoke in my head one night and that was how he came to be.
5.) if you could choose one of your characters to spend the day with who would you choose and what would you do together?
Ryan, we just go to the movies, he'd have to wear a disguise since he's famous. He likes all things Marvel and DC so probably something like that. He's a huge Thor fan.
6.). If there is anything else you would like to share with my readers feel free to do so.
They can join my face book page, it's new and still growing.
I also have 2 other books out right now. FAMOUS about a stalked celebrity, which was inspired by real events we've seen in the present and past. And TOO YOUNG about a teen age father who steps up to not only be there but raise his baby himself. In this story the girl dumps both him and their baby. People say he's too young to know how to take care of a baby properly. But he knows something they don't. He's got this!
Just follow the links below. Happy reading!
TOUR SCHEDULE:
Nov. 11th:
Jen (http://www.happylilbooknook.com)
Nov. 12th:
Sarah P.
(http://www.sarahinzombieland.wordpress.com)
Nov. 14th:
Sarah E.
(http://www.transientdrifter.blogspot.com)
Nov. 15th:
Pagie G.
(http://www.popthebutterfly.wordpress.com)
Nov. 16th:
Kira (http://thelonelybookclub.blogspot.com)
Nov. 17th:
Misty (http://www.mistysbookspace.wordpress.com)
Blog Tour Organized by: Happy Lil Book Tours
*Hosts were provided with a copy of the book for review purposes in exchange for their honest reviews and opinions.*
This blog tour sort of got put off for a while, so I actually read this book a couple of months ago. It was a pretty quick read, that started off a little on the PG13-R rated side, but then settled down into a Hallmark sort of style tale of self discovery and redemption. There were a few elements that surprised me along the way, especially in regards to romance, but I don't want to spoil it. Suffice it to say, there were some surprises along the way.
Be sure to read through to the end for my interview with Gloria :)
Title:
Loud Music: If It Ain't Turned Up... It Ain't Loud Music!
By: Gloria L. Geiger
Synopsis from Amazon.com:
Ryan Davies is the lead singer of America's most popular rock group Loud Music. His face is on just about every magazine cover, website, and news program in the country and around the world. With T.V. endorsements and film offers, Ryan is set to become one of the most famous superstars of all time. That's only on the surface, under it all, there are problems, drugs, alcohol, sex, run-ins with law enforcement and his adorable face on the nightly news reporting yet another embarrassing moment in his life. To top that off, his controlling and money hungry mother still wants control of all things Ryan Davies, including money! His band mates hate him and he has been arrested so many times the jail might as well have a revolving door just for him. All that glitters isn't gold in his life,that is until a court judge decides to make him the example by sending Ryan to work on his estranged father's Kentucky horse ranch.
At first, Ryan thinks this might be the death of him until he meets the family he never knew and starts to form bonds with each of them including a special needs cousin who will teach Ryan that there is more to life than being rich and famous.
Amazon Link:
https://www.amazon.com/Loud-Music-aint-turned-music-
ebook/dp/B074QM5756/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?ie=UTF8&qid=151037687
9&sr=8-1-
fkmr0&keywords=loud+music+by+gloria+l+geiger
Goodreads Link:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36037798-loud-
music?from_search=true
___________________________________________________
EXCERPT: CHAPTER 1
The music is thunderous roaring in my chest and vibrating down to my feet. My body buzzing, itching to move with the beat as the backup dancers come out on stage. Blue, purple and white stage lights along with smoke from the smog machine fill the air as the audience starts screaming and chanting along with Bobby, who raps, "Rock that body, rock it good shake what yo' momma gave ya, promise not to break ya..."
The distinct sweet smell of cannabis wafts towards me on the stage making me want to light up just once before this segment of the show. I follow behind lead choreographer, Benny Henderson, one of my friends on this tour, he’s tatted all over his chest and arms and has large black gauges in his ears, and a buzz-cut so close to his scalp the stage lights gleam off his head. The dancers line up diagonally and wait for me to make my move, and then right on beat, I jump out in front of the dancers as planned to start my choreographed dance. Swaying and stomping to the music with the dancers. A female dancer saunters in front of me, wearing a flesh-colored dress covered in clear sequins and fringe, swaying her hips. She gives me a flirtatious smirk as she runs her finger across my chest. I give her a look that conveys my lustful interest then grab her wrist and spin her into my arms. We begin an insanely fast-paced cha-cha dance as the other dancers follow in suit. The crowd goes nuclear feeding my performers soul. I wink at my dance partner, Chalice, Cherise, Patrice. Whatever, then dip her backwards and kiss her cheek. It’s all part of the show; still, I can feel her melt in my arms.
"Not yet, sweetheart!" I say in her ear then pull herup straight and continue dancing while Bobby’s rapping into his mic. She sways her hips, twisting and turning in step with me.
"Gimme, gimme, give me what I want!" Bobby shouts into his mic as I spin her from my arms and perform a Fred Astaire move with another beautiful redheaded dancer twirling her about like a little shiny spinning top, the fringe of her nude colored dress splaying out from her body catching the stage lights like a human crystal. The music suddenly stops as we stand with our heads down waiting for our cue.
"ONE, TWO, THREE, FOUR!" Bobby shouts and on cue the male back up dancers, dressed in only black leather pants, and I rush toward the audience of screaming teenage girls drop to our knees and skid to a stop, turning sideways, leaning back slightly, and start thrusting our hips as if we are sexing thin air. Then we drop forward into the most inappropriate version of push-ups known to humanity and simulate what we'd do to our girl if she were under us.
On the eight count, we flip over, land in a crab position, and thrust our pelvis skyward giving the girls up front the "do me baby" face. Quickly popping up on my feet I race back toward my mic as Bobby shouts in my ear, "Gonna get someone spontaneously pregnant doing that!" I look at my friend and laugh, seeing the surging and frenzied crowd, gives me feeling of completeness, of being whole.
Performing is like flying. Up here, I am untouchable, I get high off the music, the crowds cheers and screaming, lights and sounds! This is where I am free to be the real Ryan Davies. No one to treat me like a kid without say in his future, only the music, the fans, and my voice...up here, I am king. I am alive and up here I matter, not because of what I can do for someone or what my name will get them.
It's because my fans see me! They know I do this for them and them alone! Up here I feel... loved, something sorely lacking for the past twenty-one years of my life.
Shawn steps forward with his guitar and does some crazy Chuck Berry dance moves then spins and walks back to his place next to Trevor they trade looks then continue bopping their heads to the music. The two of them are crazy talented songwriters.
"Gimme your life, gimme your soul, come on baby I'll eat you whole..." I sing into the mic taking over on vocals again. Funny thing about performing it makes me feel as if I took the happiest of happy pills getting the ultimate high! The bad thing about getting high though is eventually you have to come back down again and the crash is always painful. That will be later...after the show, when it'll be Ryan versus... them, me against my entire world. I wish it were different. I wish it could be as it was when I first joined Loud Music. But we can’t go back in time, can we?
___________________________________________________
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Gloria L. Geiger is a lover of the written word, mostly YA novels. Her love of reading started in elementary school when the librarian introduced her to Louisa May Alcott's Little Women. From that point forward she has been an avid bookworm. Reading books whenever and wherever she could. Asan author, she hopes to inspire others. Always be the sunshine and not the black cloud in someone's day.
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/watswritewithme
Instagram:
http://www.instagram.com/gloria_l_geiger_
___________________________________________________
__________________________
a Rafflecopter
giveaway
___________________________________________________
__________________________
Author Interview
1.) Do you consider your self more of a plotter or a pantser (letting the story just carry you along)?
A little of both.
2.) when you create your characters do you use strict character sketches, or do you find that your characters evolve on their own as you write?
My characters seem to have a mind of their own. Each one wants something and if they don't get it. They whisper in my mind all night long until I give in. They also grow and evolve as the story takes it little twists and turns. I love seeing them even mature a little too.
3.). Can you give us some behind the scenes information about your characters? For instance favorite color, food, celebrity crush, any little bit of information you think might give readers a better understanding of who they are?
FAVORITE FOOD: Ryan Davies actually loves cheese burgers, I mention that in the story when he's at Joeys waiting to order his greasy hangover food.
FAVORITE COLOR: Would probably be purple. Royal purple that is.
CELEBRITY CRUSH: Probably Salina Gomez. Cuz she’s so darn cute.
He's also a deep thinker, has a big heart and is a people pleaser to his own detriment I think.
4.) In Loud Music you have an important character with special needs. What lead you to create this character? Do you have any personal experience with people with special needs that you would like to share?
Actually I do have background with both an autistic cousin and then I was a special needs aid in an elementary school. But Billy just spoke in my head one night and that was how he came to be.
5.) if you could choose one of your characters to spend the day with who would you choose and what would you do together?
Ryan, we just go to the movies, he'd have to wear a disguise since he's famous. He likes all things Marvel and DC so probably something like that. He's a huge Thor fan.
6.). If there is anything else you would like to share with my readers feel free to do so.
They can join my face book page, it's new and still growing.
I also have 2 other books out right now. FAMOUS about a stalked celebrity, which was inspired by real events we've seen in the present and past. And TOO YOUNG about a teen age father who steps up to not only be there but raise his baby himself. In this story the girl dumps both him and their baby. People say he's too young to know how to take care of a baby properly. But he knows something they don't. He's got this!
Just follow the links below. Happy reading!
TOUR SCHEDULE:
Nov. 11th:
Jen (http://www.happylilbooknook.com)
Nov. 12th:
Sarah P.
(http://www.sarahinzombieland.wordpress.com)
Nov. 14th:
Sarah E.
(http://www.transientdrifter.blogspot.com)
Nov. 15th:
Pagie G.
(http://www.popthebutterfly.wordpress.com)
Nov. 16th:
Kira (http://thelonelybookclub.blogspot.com)
Nov. 17th:
Misty (http://www.mistysbookspace.wordpress.com)
Blog Tour Organized by: Happy Lil Book Tours
*Hosts were provided with a copy of the book for review purposes in exchange for their honest reviews and opinions.*
Saturday, July 8, 2017
The Monsters of Selkirk Blog Tour
Summer, it means lots of extra time for relaxation, reading, and catching up on all those things that hibernate over the winter, right? Or it means taking on all sorts of new extra projects, and therefore, having almost zero time for those extra little pleasures. Yeah. So, I have not started reading The Monster's of Selkirk yet, but it looks really good, and we all know that judging books by their covers is a fully acceptable practice. For now, I've got some background for you, a giveaway, and a super fun non spoiler interview with Author CE Clayton.
Title:
The Monster of Selkirk - Book 1 "The Duality of Nature"
Author: C.E. Clayton
Synopsis from Amazon.com:
Monsters come in many forms, and not everyone knows a monster when they see one. Afterthree hundred years of monstrous, feral elves plaguing the island nation of Selkirk, everyone believes they know what a monster is. Humans have learned to live with their savage neighbors, enactinga Clearing every four years to push the elves back from their borders. The system has worked for centuries, until after one such purge, a babe was found in the forest. As Tallis grows, she discovers she isn't like everyone else. There is something a little different that makes people leery in her presence, and she only ever makes a handful of friends. But when the elves gather their forces and emerge from the forests literally hissing Tallis's name like a battle mantra, making friends is the least of her troubles. Tallis and her companions find themselves onan unwilling journey to not only clear her name, but to stop the elves from ravaging her homeland.
Amazon Link:
https://www.amazon.com/Monster-Selkirk-Book-Duality-Nature/dp/1546469680/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1499321994&sr=8-
1&keywords=the+monster+of+selkirk
Goodreads Link:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/34736540-the-monster-of-selkirk
____________________________________________________________________________
Spotify Playlist: https://play.spotify.com/user/121402516/playlist/5y7UnUZ
SUR9rGR2uqHMpRp
________________________________________________________________________________
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
C.E. Clayton was born and raised in Southern California where she worked in the advertising industry for several years on accounts that ranged from fast food, to cars, and video games (her personal favorite). This was before she packed up her life, husband, two displeased cats, and one very confused dog and moved to New Orleans. Now, she is a full time writer (mainly in the fantasy genre), her cats are no longer as displeased, and her dog no longer confused. Moreabout C.E. Clayton, including her blog, book reviews, and poetry, canbe found on her website:
http://www.ceclayton.com
AUTHOR LINKS:
Website: http://www.ceclayton.com
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/chelscey
1.) Would you consider yourself a plotter, a pantser, or something in between?
I'm mostly a pantser though I do tend to be in between a bit. I've found that when I over plot, I get bored of my story and therefore, stop writing. Generally, I know what the conflict is and how the whole thing will end. From there, I let the characters shape themselves a bit as I go along. At most, I plot out a few chapters ahead as I get to them so I never lose the thread of what should be happening and what needs to happen in order to get to the conclusion. For me, I've found this approach really helps with the pacing so things don't drift into tangents and the action is lost, but it keeps me engaged and excited to see what my characters do next. I know that sounds like some abstract, frilly artsy thing, but it really isn't, I promise! :)
2.) Do you feel like you have control over your characters, following strict outlines, or do they tend to evolve over time?
They mostly evolve over time. I always know where they start, their background, the things they are afraid of or struggle to overcome, then I get the pleasure of watching them grow and change based on all the drama and characters I throw their way. I don't have kids, so I imagine this is a teeny tiny bit what parents must feel like when they are watching their children grow, and I love it!
3.) Can you give us some behind the scenes info about any of your characters that isn't mentioned in the story? For example: favorite music, color, food, celebrity crush, etc?
Tallis, the main character, hates the ocean! She can swim, but she gets extremely uncomfortable without solid land beneath her feet. It's a mild phobia of hers that she never manages to reconcile. Also, even though Selkirk is based off a medieval version of Scotland, if Tallis were to have a favorite band today, it would be Bastille though her favorite music would be more folk/americana.
Rosslyn's favorite color is bright pink but she never wears it, she feels like it makes her look too "girly", or innocent , rather, so even though she loves it, she won't own anything pink.
Tomas doesn't drink because he's afraid of losing control, especially around Tallis ;) He's not against drinking, so he may drink one day, but for now, he's afraid of what it'll do to him.
Donovan loooovveeesss Rosslyn and her families cooking, especially her lamb stew, but he can't tell her. He disapproves of Rosslyn's influence on Tallis too much to pay her that kind of compliment.
4.) Speaking of celebrities, who would you cast for your major characters in a film version of your story?
I'd cast Amanda Seyfried as Tallis, they look similar in my mind and she has the range to be both a bit insecure of herself but a total strong, badass woman at the same time.
Jared Padalecki would be Tomas, they have similar builds even though Tomas has blonde hair. Really, it's his Sam Winchester character that reminds me of Tomas most. An intellectual, wants to use violence as a last resort, wants to figure things out, is brilliant, but also extremely attractive ;)
Zoe Kravitz always reminded me a bit of Rosslyn, they are both strong, sassy, and fiercely independent women. She's just missing Rosslyn's signature freckles and honey brown eyes. If nothing else, I'd like to imagine the two would be friends!
Chris Evans would be Donovan, hands down, even though they have different eye color. They have a similar look but also, Chris Evans does a fantastic job as Captain America and a lot of those same characteristics are present in Donovan, they are honorable, loyal, and will do what's right at any cost.
All of these actors are a bit older now, and the look isn't 100% right on, so they may not be best suited for my characters who are between 19-25 for the most part, but they all fit well in my head!
5.) If you were stranded on a deserted island, which of your characters would you like to have by your side and why?
Oh that's so tough! It depends on the deserted island to be honest. If it were a tropical paradise, I'd have Rosslyn with me hands down. She's hilarious and exactly the kind of girl you'd want by your side for a good time. But if the island was dangerous, I'd want Tallis! She's still fun, but also pretty deadly so I'd trust her to protect us and help figure out how to get to safety.
This is also why Rosslyn and Tallis make such good friends, they compliment each other really well.
6.) Is there anything else you would like to share?
I love giving my characters complicated backstories and mild mental health issues they have to deal with. Tomas has social anxiety, Tallis deals with panic attacks, Rosslyn has a little brother with special needs, Donovan's mother died when he was very young... all of them are either flawed, or fiercely love someone with mental instabilities. To me, even though this is pure fantasy, it makes my characters relatable because they deal with very real things that so many others deal with on a daily basis. I believe that fantasy is not purely an escape from reality, but that it helps us deal with reality. I hope that when others read about Tallis and her friends, they feel that as well.
Giveaway a Rafflecopter giveaway
____________________________________________________________________________
Tour Schedule:
July 8th:Jen (http://www.happylilbooknook.com)
July 9th:Sarah (http://www.transientdrifter.blogspot.com)
July 10th:Paige S. (http://justonemorepaige.wordpress.com)
July 11th:Kira (http://thelonelybookclub.blogspot.com)
July 12th:Paige G. (http://www.popthebutterfly.wordpress.com)
July 13th: Priyanka (http://abooklionshideaway.blogspot.in/)
Jordan (http://www.readbyroe.com)
July 14th: Jess (https://xlittlebookwormx.wordpress.com)
Blog Tour Organized by:
Happy Lil Book Tours *Hosts were provided with a copy of the book for review purposes in exchange for their honest reviews and opinions.
As soon as I finish reading I'll be sure to post my thoughts on my Goodreads account and on Amazon. Hope to see you all again soon. :)
Title:
The Monster of Selkirk - Book 1 "The Duality of Nature"
Author: C.E. Clayton
Synopsis from Amazon.com:
Monsters come in many forms, and not everyone knows a monster when they see one. Afterthree hundred years of monstrous, feral elves plaguing the island nation of Selkirk, everyone believes they know what a monster is. Humans have learned to live with their savage neighbors, enactinga Clearing every four years to push the elves back from their borders. The system has worked for centuries, until after one such purge, a babe was found in the forest. As Tallis grows, she discovers she isn't like everyone else. There is something a little different that makes people leery in her presence, and she only ever makes a handful of friends. But when the elves gather their forces and emerge from the forests literally hissing Tallis's name like a battle mantra, making friends is the least of her troubles. Tallis and her companions find themselves onan unwilling journey to not only clear her name, but to stop the elves from ravaging her homeland.
Amazon Link:
https://www.amazon.com/Monster-Selkirk-Book-Duality-Nature/dp/1546469680/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1499321994&sr=8-
1&keywords=the+monster+of+selkirk
Goodreads Link:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/34736540-the-monster-of-selkirk
____________________________________________________________________________
Spotify Playlist: https://play.spotify.com/user/121402516/playlist/5y7UnUZ
SUR9rGR2uqHMpRp
________________________________________________________________________________
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
C.E. Clayton was born and raised in Southern California where she worked in the advertising industry for several years on accounts that ranged from fast food, to cars, and video games (her personal favorite). This was before she packed up her life, husband, two displeased cats, and one very confused dog and moved to New Orleans. Now, she is a full time writer (mainly in the fantasy genre), her cats are no longer as displeased, and her dog no longer confused. Moreabout C.E. Clayton, including her blog, book reviews, and poetry, canbe found on her website:
http://www.ceclayton.com
AUTHOR LINKS:
Website: http://www.ceclayton.com
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/chelscey
1.) Would you consider yourself a plotter, a pantser, or something in between?
I'm mostly a pantser though I do tend to be in between a bit. I've found that when I over plot, I get bored of my story and therefore, stop writing. Generally, I know what the conflict is and how the whole thing will end. From there, I let the characters shape themselves a bit as I go along. At most, I plot out a few chapters ahead as I get to them so I never lose the thread of what should be happening and what needs to happen in order to get to the conclusion. For me, I've found this approach really helps with the pacing so things don't drift into tangents and the action is lost, but it keeps me engaged and excited to see what my characters do next. I know that sounds like some abstract, frilly artsy thing, but it really isn't, I promise! :)
2.) Do you feel like you have control over your characters, following strict outlines, or do they tend to evolve over time?
They mostly evolve over time. I always know where they start, their background, the things they are afraid of or struggle to overcome, then I get the pleasure of watching them grow and change based on all the drama and characters I throw their way. I don't have kids, so I imagine this is a teeny tiny bit what parents must feel like when they are watching their children grow, and I love it!
3.) Can you give us some behind the scenes info about any of your characters that isn't mentioned in the story? For example: favorite music, color, food, celebrity crush, etc?
Tallis, the main character, hates the ocean! She can swim, but she gets extremely uncomfortable without solid land beneath her feet. It's a mild phobia of hers that she never manages to reconcile. Also, even though Selkirk is based off a medieval version of Scotland, if Tallis were to have a favorite band today, it would be Bastille though her favorite music would be more folk/americana.
Rosslyn's favorite color is bright pink but she never wears it, she feels like it makes her look too "girly", or innocent , rather, so even though she loves it, she won't own anything pink.
Tomas doesn't drink because he's afraid of losing control, especially around Tallis ;) He's not against drinking, so he may drink one day, but for now, he's afraid of what it'll do to him.
Donovan loooovveeesss Rosslyn and her families cooking, especially her lamb stew, but he can't tell her. He disapproves of Rosslyn's influence on Tallis too much to pay her that kind of compliment.
4.) Speaking of celebrities, who would you cast for your major characters in a film version of your story?
I'd cast Amanda Seyfried as Tallis, they look similar in my mind and she has the range to be both a bit insecure of herself but a total strong, badass woman at the same time.
Jared Padalecki would be Tomas, they have similar builds even though Tomas has blonde hair. Really, it's his Sam Winchester character that reminds me of Tomas most. An intellectual, wants to use violence as a last resort, wants to figure things out, is brilliant, but also extremely attractive ;)
Zoe Kravitz always reminded me a bit of Rosslyn, they are both strong, sassy, and fiercely independent women. She's just missing Rosslyn's signature freckles and honey brown eyes. If nothing else, I'd like to imagine the two would be friends!
Chris Evans would be Donovan, hands down, even though they have different eye color. They have a similar look but also, Chris Evans does a fantastic job as Captain America and a lot of those same characteristics are present in Donovan, they are honorable, loyal, and will do what's right at any cost.
All of these actors are a bit older now, and the look isn't 100% right on, so they may not be best suited for my characters who are between 19-25 for the most part, but they all fit well in my head!
5.) If you were stranded on a deserted island, which of your characters would you like to have by your side and why?
Oh that's so tough! It depends on the deserted island to be honest. If it were a tropical paradise, I'd have Rosslyn with me hands down. She's hilarious and exactly the kind of girl you'd want by your side for a good time. But if the island was dangerous, I'd want Tallis! She's still fun, but also pretty deadly so I'd trust her to protect us and help figure out how to get to safety.
This is also why Rosslyn and Tallis make such good friends, they compliment each other really well.
6.) Is there anything else you would like to share?
I love giving my characters complicated backstories and mild mental health issues they have to deal with. Tomas has social anxiety, Tallis deals with panic attacks, Rosslyn has a little brother with special needs, Donovan's mother died when he was very young... all of them are either flawed, or fiercely love someone with mental instabilities. To me, even though this is pure fantasy, it makes my characters relatable because they deal with very real things that so many others deal with on a daily basis. I believe that fantasy is not purely an escape from reality, but that it helps us deal with reality. I hope that when others read about Tallis and her friends, they feel that as well.
Giveaway a Rafflecopter giveaway
____________________________________________________________________________
Tour Schedule:
July 8th:Jen (http://www.happylilbooknook.com)
July 9th:Sarah (http://www.transientdrifter.blogspot.com)
July 10th:Paige S. (http://justonemorepaige.wordpress.com)
July 11th:Kira (http://thelonelybookclub.blogspot.com)
July 12th:Paige G. (http://www.popthebutterfly.wordpress.com)
July 13th: Priyanka (http://abooklionshideaway.blogspot.in/)
Jordan (http://www.readbyroe.com)
July 14th: Jess (https://xlittlebookwormx.wordpress.com)
Blog Tour Organized by:
Happy Lil Book Tours *Hosts were provided with a copy of the book for review purposes in exchange for their honest reviews and opinions.
As soon as I finish reading I'll be sure to post my thoughts on my Goodreads account and on Amazon. Hope to see you all again soon. :)
Sunday, June 25, 2017
Immer Author Interview
So I quickly posted all the information about this book and the blog tour yesterday, but I didn't have the interview with the author yet. I really enjoyed her answers to my questions, and I think you all will, too :)
1.) Would you consider yourself a plotter, a pantser, or something in between?
My stories come to me almost like videos and conversations in my mind that won’t leave me alone until I put them on paper. So, when I sit down to type, I usually have a basic concept, often a very loose basic concept, of where I’m starting and where I’ll land in the end. But, I typically have no idea the path that I’ll take to get there, or what might pop up along the journey. It’s this wonderful and beautiful, and sometimes shocking, thing. It’s like I’m riding the story and it can completely surprise me!
2.) Do you feel like you have control over your characters, following strict outlines, or do they tend to evolve over time?
I don’t feel like I have a tight rein on my characters. They definitely have minds of their own and I watch them grow and change, sometimes just as the reader will. I let them flow, as I do the story. Who they are at the core doesn’t usually alter drastically, but it’s incredible for me to watch their development.
3.) Can you give us some behind the scenes info about any of your characters that isn't mentioned in the story? For example: favorite music, color, food, celebrity crush, etc?
This question made me smile.
Will is hard core rock and roll, all the way. He loves black, as is apparent by his wardrobe, and he prefers comfort food from home. He couldn’t name a celebrity, let alone have a crush on one.
Rayne loves the color grey, because it makes her think of Will’s eyes. She loves anything Will cooks for her, and, like me, she adores indie pop. She loves Mark Wahlberg, because he’s tough and sexy, but a super sweet guy to his wife and kids.
4.) Speaking of celebrities, who would you cast for your major characters in a film version of your story?
I’ve never thought about this and am struggling to answer. I find it hard to picture my characters any other way than the way I created them. Maybe Lucy Hale could play Rayne and Zac Efron could be Will.
5.) If you were stranded on a deserted island, which of your characters would you like to have by your side and why?
Will, all day long. Yes, Will. Could it be Will??? I must admit, I truly adore him as a character. He developed in my mind before any of the other characters and even with his flaws, he’s pure perfection to me.
6.) Is there anything else you would like to share?
I love being a writer. Becoming a self-published author has been like this fantasy ride that I don’t want to ever end. I am truly grateful for anyone and everyone who has taken the time to read my work. I still get all giggly, like a 5-year-old, when someone mentions that she’s reading my book. So, for everyone out there who is giving me any of your time, I’d like to say thank you, truly, thank you.
1.) Would you consider yourself a plotter, a pantser, or something in between?
My stories come to me almost like videos and conversations in my mind that won’t leave me alone until I put them on paper. So, when I sit down to type, I usually have a basic concept, often a very loose basic concept, of where I’m starting and where I’ll land in the end. But, I typically have no idea the path that I’ll take to get there, or what might pop up along the journey. It’s this wonderful and beautiful, and sometimes shocking, thing. It’s like I’m riding the story and it can completely surprise me!
2.) Do you feel like you have control over your characters, following strict outlines, or do they tend to evolve over time?
I don’t feel like I have a tight rein on my characters. They definitely have minds of their own and I watch them grow and change, sometimes just as the reader will. I let them flow, as I do the story. Who they are at the core doesn’t usually alter drastically, but it’s incredible for me to watch their development.
3.) Can you give us some behind the scenes info about any of your characters that isn't mentioned in the story? For example: favorite music, color, food, celebrity crush, etc?
This question made me smile.
Will is hard core rock and roll, all the way. He loves black, as is apparent by his wardrobe, and he prefers comfort food from home. He couldn’t name a celebrity, let alone have a crush on one.
Rayne loves the color grey, because it makes her think of Will’s eyes. She loves anything Will cooks for her, and, like me, she adores indie pop. She loves Mark Wahlberg, because he’s tough and sexy, but a super sweet guy to his wife and kids.
4.) Speaking of celebrities, who would you cast for your major characters in a film version of your story?
I’ve never thought about this and am struggling to answer. I find it hard to picture my characters any other way than the way I created them. Maybe Lucy Hale could play Rayne and Zac Efron could be Will.
5.) If you were stranded on a deserted island, which of your characters would you like to have by your side and why?
Will, all day long. Yes, Will. Could it be Will??? I must admit, I truly adore him as a character. He developed in my mind before any of the other characters and even with his flaws, he’s pure perfection to me.
6.) Is there anything else you would like to share?
I love being a writer. Becoming a self-published author has been like this fantasy ride that I don’t want to ever end. I am truly grateful for anyone and everyone who has taken the time to read my work. I still get all giggly, like a 5-year-old, when someone mentions that she’s reading my book. So, for everyone out there who is giving me any of your time, I’d like to say thank you, truly, thank you.
Saturday, June 24, 2017
Immer Blog Tour
Wow, seems like ages since I've done one of these blog tours. I'm hoping to have an interview to add as well, but thought I would at least get the basics up now. I still haven't had a chance to read the story, but it is up next on my list. Looks like quite an interesting one :)
Title:
Immer
By: Denise McFarland
Synopsis from Amazon.com:
The world has evolved. Fairies exist and have the power to heal. Vampires are real and aren’t to be trusted. Wolves have revealed their ability to shift into human form. Will Jaxon is both man and wolf.
He is the Alpha of his community’s Wolf Force, the agency that provides security and protection for all mankind.
In addition to his role as the head of his pack, Will has been working undercover to infiltrate an illegal drug organization that is trafficking women. When Will is coerced to take the lead in an abduction, he agrees in order
to preserve his cover. But one look into the terrified, green eyes of the woman he attacks leaves him powerless
to continue.
As Rayne Daniels stares into the face of the man restraining her, she sees a shift, for a fraction of a second he changes and his true form is revealed. She realizes he is a wolf, a protector, and almost before she knows what
is happening, he releases her. Rayne escapes physically, but emotionally she continues to be haunted, held prisoner by the trauma of that night. When Will discovers that members of the organization are still looking for Rayne, his entire world is altered. Now, Will spends his days undercover and every other free moment keeping Rayne safe, because her survival has become critical to him in a way that he cannot explain.
Goodreads Link:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33950142-immer
Amazon Link:
https://www.amazon.com/Immer-Denise-
McFarland/dp/1542326079/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1498283638&sr=8-2&keywords=immer
Chapter 1 Excerpt:
Rayne Daniels was tired. It felt like a long week and it was only Wednesday. But she'd promised herself she'd exercise three times a week and she hadn't cheated at all for the last four weeks, so she wasn't going to start now. After locking her ground floor apartment, she jogged down the first part of the path, around the corner and three blocks over, heading for the park in her neighborhood. She slowed as she crossed the street and made her way around the corner, with the park in view. The sun was just starting to think about setting, telling her she'd have to do more jogging than walking to speed up her trip around the park and be back home before dark.
Exercise was her attempt to get a little healthier. Following her 25th birthday Rayne had noticed her curves were getting a little softer and she'd heard about women's bodies betraying then after 30.
She'd decided she should get a head start on beating back the clock. She was in the process of congratulating herself for heading out into the cool dusk, despite her exhaustion and the later start, as she rounded the higher bushes on the edge of the park. She'd trained herself to speed up the jogging to a run in this area because as a single girl who ran alone, it wasn't wise to linger near large shrubbery that blocked you from view. Automatically running faster, she continued to think about this new phase of her life.
She was in a new city, with a new business, and now she had a new exercise routine. She was like an entirely new woman. Rayne was so caught up in her thoughts that she failed to notice the bent branches and scattering of leaves around the bushes.
If she'd been paying attention, this would have warned her that something was wrong. As it was, she never slowed, never even suspected danger, until she was caught in the grip of it.
Rayne stopped short as she felt firm hands reach out and pull her off the path. She lost her breath as it was jerked from within her and was so shocked that the attack was really happening that she forgot to struggle for the first 3 heartbeats. But then reality set in and she pulled back, opening her mouth wide to scream.
At the same moment anticipating her reaction, her attacker clamped both of her wrists in one vice grip, and he used the other hand to cover her mouth as he pulled her deeper into the shrubs.
Rayne knew no one was coming for her. The path had been empty as she'd entered the park and with every passing moment the darkness was settling around her. People didn't come to the park after the sun set. She was completely on her own. She silently prayed, please God, please no, please help me.
They were totally surrounded by the high growing bushes and as she continued to struggle, she began to feel helplessly like she was about to live every nightmare she'd ever had.
It was becoming harder to breathe through her panic and she tried to turn her head to find some form of escape. That was when she saw the ground behind her attacker. There was a whole cluster of men watching her world end. She couldn't make out features, but they were standing there, witnessing her terror like it was some new sporting event. She couldn't help the whimper that made its way up from her throat, as she finally looked up into the face of her assailant. She pleaded with her eyes, because her voice was still trapped behind his hand, begging him silently to let her go. Watching his eyes she saw a slight change, so quickly she thought she must have imagined it. He leaned in toward her and almost growled, "Stop. Quit fighting me." He lowered his voice further and tears burned into her eyes as he roughly whispered, "Use your knee and push me away. Do you understand? Make it look convincing. Look at me. Do you understand?"
The words were starting to penetrate her terror. Was he telling her he was going to let her go? She barely tilted her head forward, watching his eyes, momentarily paralyzed by her hope. She watched him match her movement, and saw the spilt second difference in his eyes again as he tilted his head forward, acknowledging that she'd truly heard him correctly.
Louder again he said, "Stop struggling." The words were barely out of his mouth when she reared her head back and slammed it into his face. Feigning that he was caught off guard, his head snapped back on impact and he released her hands. Rayne used that moment to thrust her knee upward and then shove him off balance. The second her hands left his shoulders she turned and ran. She ran with everything she had, her panic and adrenaline pushing her forward faster than she'd ever run. And she was screaming as loudly as she could.
No words would form, she just screamed and ran for her apartment. Nearing her door, she briefly wondered if she was leading the monster right to her home, but a quick glance behind her showed no one was following.
_____________________________________________________________________________
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Denise McFarland is thrilled to introduce her very first publication, Immer. As a voracious reader from childhood, she found herself frequently being drawn into paranormal fantasy novels, falling in love with the interesting quirks and powers that made the characters "para" and the stories fantasy. It's not surprising that when she finally jumped into the author pool, she dove toward her favorite genre. She has dreamed for years of being a novelist. So, when she developed a story that she couldn't get out of her head, she knew she had to start typing. Denise is a lifelong resident of Jacksonville, Florida. She spends her summers soaking up the Florida sunshine and the rest of each year teaching 4th grade.
AUTHOR LINKS:
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33950142-immer
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/author.denise_mcfarland
_______________________________________________________________________________
GIVEAWAY:
a
Rafflecopter giveaway
_______________________________________________________________________________
TOUR SCHEDULE:
June 24th:
Jen (http://www.happylilbooknook.com)
June 25th:
Sarah (http://www.transientdrifter.blogspot.com)
June 26th:
Paige (http://justonemorepage.wordpress.com)
June 27th:
Nikki (http://www.instagram.com/asreadbyginger)
June 28th:
Elizabeth (http://www.instagram.com/throneofshatteredbooks)
June 29th:
Jordan (http://www.readbyroe.com)
June 30th:
Jess (https://xlittlebookwormx.wordpress.com)
Melissa (https://melimimi.blogspot.com)
Blog Tour Organized by:
Happy Lil Book Tours *Hosts were provided with a copy of the book for review purposes in exchange for their honest reviews and opinions.*
Title:
Immer
By: Denise McFarland
Synopsis from Amazon.com:
The world has evolved. Fairies exist and have the power to heal. Vampires are real and aren’t to be trusted. Wolves have revealed their ability to shift into human form. Will Jaxon is both man and wolf.
He is the Alpha of his community’s Wolf Force, the agency that provides security and protection for all mankind.
In addition to his role as the head of his pack, Will has been working undercover to infiltrate an illegal drug organization that is trafficking women. When Will is coerced to take the lead in an abduction, he agrees in order
to preserve his cover. But one look into the terrified, green eyes of the woman he attacks leaves him powerless
to continue.
As Rayne Daniels stares into the face of the man restraining her, she sees a shift, for a fraction of a second he changes and his true form is revealed. She realizes he is a wolf, a protector, and almost before she knows what
is happening, he releases her. Rayne escapes physically, but emotionally she continues to be haunted, held prisoner by the trauma of that night. When Will discovers that members of the organization are still looking for Rayne, his entire world is altered. Now, Will spends his days undercover and every other free moment keeping Rayne safe, because her survival has become critical to him in a way that he cannot explain.
Goodreads Link:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33950142-immer
Amazon Link:
https://www.amazon.com/Immer-Denise-
McFarland/dp/1542326079/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1498283638&sr=8-2&keywords=immer
Chapter 1 Excerpt:
Rayne Daniels was tired. It felt like a long week and it was only Wednesday. But she'd promised herself she'd exercise three times a week and she hadn't cheated at all for the last four weeks, so she wasn't going to start now. After locking her ground floor apartment, she jogged down the first part of the path, around the corner and three blocks over, heading for the park in her neighborhood. She slowed as she crossed the street and made her way around the corner, with the park in view. The sun was just starting to think about setting, telling her she'd have to do more jogging than walking to speed up her trip around the park and be back home before dark.
Exercise was her attempt to get a little healthier. Following her 25th birthday Rayne had noticed her curves were getting a little softer and she'd heard about women's bodies betraying then after 30.
She'd decided she should get a head start on beating back the clock. She was in the process of congratulating herself for heading out into the cool dusk, despite her exhaustion and the later start, as she rounded the higher bushes on the edge of the park. She'd trained herself to speed up the jogging to a run in this area because as a single girl who ran alone, it wasn't wise to linger near large shrubbery that blocked you from view. Automatically running faster, she continued to think about this new phase of her life.
She was in a new city, with a new business, and now she had a new exercise routine. She was like an entirely new woman. Rayne was so caught up in her thoughts that she failed to notice the bent branches and scattering of leaves around the bushes.
If she'd been paying attention, this would have warned her that something was wrong. As it was, she never slowed, never even suspected danger, until she was caught in the grip of it.
Rayne stopped short as she felt firm hands reach out and pull her off the path. She lost her breath as it was jerked from within her and was so shocked that the attack was really happening that she forgot to struggle for the first 3 heartbeats. But then reality set in and she pulled back, opening her mouth wide to scream.
At the same moment anticipating her reaction, her attacker clamped both of her wrists in one vice grip, and he used the other hand to cover her mouth as he pulled her deeper into the shrubs.
Rayne knew no one was coming for her. The path had been empty as she'd entered the park and with every passing moment the darkness was settling around her. People didn't come to the park after the sun set. She was completely on her own. She silently prayed, please God, please no, please help me.
They were totally surrounded by the high growing bushes and as she continued to struggle, she began to feel helplessly like she was about to live every nightmare she'd ever had.
It was becoming harder to breathe through her panic and she tried to turn her head to find some form of escape. That was when she saw the ground behind her attacker. There was a whole cluster of men watching her world end. She couldn't make out features, but they were standing there, witnessing her terror like it was some new sporting event. She couldn't help the whimper that made its way up from her throat, as she finally looked up into the face of her assailant. She pleaded with her eyes, because her voice was still trapped behind his hand, begging him silently to let her go. Watching his eyes she saw a slight change, so quickly she thought she must have imagined it. He leaned in toward her and almost growled, "Stop. Quit fighting me." He lowered his voice further and tears burned into her eyes as he roughly whispered, "Use your knee and push me away. Do you understand? Make it look convincing. Look at me. Do you understand?"
The words were starting to penetrate her terror. Was he telling her he was going to let her go? She barely tilted her head forward, watching his eyes, momentarily paralyzed by her hope. She watched him match her movement, and saw the spilt second difference in his eyes again as he tilted his head forward, acknowledging that she'd truly heard him correctly.
Louder again he said, "Stop struggling." The words were barely out of his mouth when she reared her head back and slammed it into his face. Feigning that he was caught off guard, his head snapped back on impact and he released her hands. Rayne used that moment to thrust her knee upward and then shove him off balance. The second her hands left his shoulders she turned and ran. She ran with everything she had, her panic and adrenaline pushing her forward faster than she'd ever run. And she was screaming as loudly as she could.
No words would form, she just screamed and ran for her apartment. Nearing her door, she briefly wondered if she was leading the monster right to her home, but a quick glance behind her showed no one was following.
_____________________________________________________________________________
Denise McFarland is thrilled to introduce her very first publication, Immer. As a voracious reader from childhood, she found herself frequently being drawn into paranormal fantasy novels, falling in love with the interesting quirks and powers that made the characters "para" and the stories fantasy. It's not surprising that when she finally jumped into the author pool, she dove toward her favorite genre. She has dreamed for years of being a novelist. So, when she developed a story that she couldn't get out of her head, she knew she had to start typing. Denise is a lifelong resident of Jacksonville, Florida. She spends her summers soaking up the Florida sunshine and the rest of each year teaching 4th grade.
AUTHOR LINKS:
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33950142-immer
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/author.denise_mcfarland
_______________________________________________________________________________
GIVEAWAY:
a
Rafflecopter giveaway
TOUR SCHEDULE:
June 24th:
Jen (http://www.happylilbooknook.com)
June 25th:
Sarah (http://www.transientdrifter.blogspot.com)
June 26th:
Paige (http://justonemorepage.wordpress.com)
June 27th:
Nikki (http://www.instagram.com/asreadbyginger)
June 28th:
Elizabeth (http://www.instagram.com/throneofshatteredbooks)
June 29th:
Jordan (http://www.readbyroe.com)
June 30th:
Jess (https://xlittlebookwormx.wordpress.com)
Melissa (https://melimimi.blogspot.com)
Blog Tour Organized by:
Happy Lil Book Tours *Hosts were provided with a copy of the book for review purposes in exchange for their honest reviews and opinions.*
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