It's HERE...INTERRED by Marilyn Almodovar

Happy Friday! It's FINALLY here!!!

Well, I must say, this has defnitely been a truly anticipated event and now that it's finally here...I'm beyond proud and excited! AHHHHH!  I am so very, VERY proud to present not only a debut novel but a BRILLIANT debut author, one of my dear fellow DREAM WEAVERS...Marilyn Almodovar and her debut novel, INTERRED!!! WOO-HOO!!!

 



*happy dances and hip bumps* FOR ALL!!!

Born in Ft. Huachuca, Arizona, Marilyn ("Lyn" to me) is an avid lover of words, with reading tastes that range from Victorian all the way to Stephen King.  And it has been this deeply rooted love for words, accompanied with her passion for writing, that has allowed her to escape into other worlds.  Having lived abroad, and a self-confessed citizen of the world, she is fluent in French, English, Spanish and basic knowledge of Italian. I know, I know...SHOW OFF!!! Hehe. Kidding, Lyn. Kidding!

But it has been Lyn's passion, hard work and insatiable imagination that has now led up to the debut of her novel, INTERRED, book one of her Chronicles of the Interred. CHECK IT OUT!

 

"Interred"



"Time has never been an issue for Baxter Jacobs, but then she never knew she had the ability to Bend it.

As her sixteenth birthday approaches, Baxter inherits a pendant that will change her life. Connected to the pendant is a dark and mysterious young man named Declan Ashdown. Trapped in a Time loop for the past 122 years, Declan needs Baxter’s help to escape. The only problem is, she has no idea how to do it.

To acquire the power she needs to free him, she’ll become one of the Interred, those whose Magical abilities emerge as they come of age. When she does, she’ll discover that Declan isn’t the only one interested in the fact that she’s a Time Bender.

As the Interment arrives, Baxter knows this will be no Sweet Sixteen. A vengeful relative and ruthless Council are determined to control her. Declan’s powerful and charming descendant, Jack Ashdown, claims he can save her. She’ll soon have to decide who she can trust, and how to master her new abilities before Time runs out."

You can purchase your copy of INTERRED today, now available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

For more information on Lyn and her work you can visit her website.  You can also find Lyn on facebook and twitter (@LynAlmodovar).

Happy Writing & Happy Reading!


 

What happened to BLAIRE?!

WARNING: This is a very long blog. Turn back now or forever hold your peace.

So, being that I was absent for suuuuuuuch a long time, I thought maybe I should at least take the time to explain my sudden vanishing act.  To say the least, 2012 was a year of many downs.  But to better tell this story I think I'll Quentin Tarantino it. We'll start at the end, work our way back to the beginning, then pick up somewhere in the middle and then...HAHA! I'm kidding.

Okay, okay...I'll just tell it. 

Late 2011 I began experiencing some really intense headaches.  But these headaches weren't just a simple pain in the head, these particular headaches were beyond excruciating. I began experiencing extreme disorientation, dizziness, blackouts, nausea, vomitting...basically, I felt like a walking side effect of some black market drug that failed to get approved by the FDA. LOL!

To say the least, I was MISERABLE! *sigh*

After a trip to the emergency room, and a nice little (okay, tearful) chat with my family doctor...I was referred to a Neurologist where they took blood, gave me the old poke-poke-stab-stab treatment, scanned, and took great pleasure in prodding me.  After all was said and done I learned that I suffered from migraines. I know!! Womp womp. Not exactly the most earth shattering diagnosis.

"Migraines?! What are you, Blaire? A wimp?" Honestly, I was so glad that nothing more serious had showed up, considering how awful I felt, that I didn't care how wimpy I seemed.

But yes, ladies and gents, I definitely felt like a wimp. A sobbing, fetal position, thumb sucking wimp. But as it turned out, not only was I suffering from migraines, but a rare form called Status Migrainosus.  But I didn't care what they called it, since by this point I had sustained a consistent, non-stop migraine for three months straight...and simply wanted nothing more than to make it GO. AWAY!! I had lost more than 30 pounds (in three months) due to extreme nausea and my inability to hold down food, and the "headache" was thoroughly kicking my butt.

I was soon admitted into the doctor's care to begin treatment, with the FIRST priority being to stop the cycle (my migraine). And all I can say is, thank goodness for DRUGS! And I mean the legal kind, not the crack kills kind.

After three days of straight treatment (on some pretty powerful meds), the migraine I had sustained for three months was finally gone. HALLELUJAH! But little did I know that my journey had only just begun. The next seven months would be the darkest and most frustrating days of my life.  For what I didn't understand at the time was that stopping a cycle did not mean the end of more to come.  Now it became a race to figure out how to keep from getting them over and over again for such long periods of time.  Now you'd think this would be a simple solution (well, I certainly did)...after all, it's just a headache (of sorts), take some extra-strength Tylenol and get some sleep.

Well, by this time my insomnia was completely out of control and I was suffering from a serious case of fatigue. I was sleeping maybe two hours a night, sometimes not at all because the pain was so intense. When I was awake, I was typically immobile, disfunctional, and completely incoherent when I attempted to communicate. It was as if my mind had completely abandoned me, and I was alone in a dark room with nothing but pain for a companion.  I felt alone and completely robbed of my life. It was as if the pain and zombie-like state I was now in, due to my body having to adjust to the new drugs and reoccuring migraines, had completely taken over. And it was like a completely different person surfaced, locking the old me away.  My emotions were all over the place, and I never knew how I would feel one day to the next.  I know it must sound so dramatic to say it that way, but this had become my world, and it consumed me.  I was, to put it bluntly, a walking zombie disaster.  These months would come to be a long stretch of trial and error with the doctors, through process of elimination, trying to figure out the appropriate treatment and dosage for my particular condition and situation. I was forced to completely change my diet in order to avoid trigger foods that could spark a migraine, my whole routine changed, and I found myself taking meds just so I could perform the simple tasks of getting out of bed each day.

Yes. It would take seven months to finally find a medication that worked for me.  Meaning I was migraine free for at least six weeks at a time. HURRAY!!! It wasn't perfect, but in my mind a step forward was still a step forward. I was able to get out again, work out, I was up to my usual 5 hours of sleep and it finally seemed like I could see a light at the end of the tunnel. But my joy would be short-lived, because in early October things took turn, and I began to have seizure like symptoms.  And similar to before, I experienced extreme pains in my head (like a migraine) but now I was losing feeling in limbs, as well as experiencing muscle spasms in my face and body.

Talk about a NIGHTMARE!!

Without even hesitating I was back to my Neurologist, and it was discovered I had a condition known as Occipital Neuralgia.  SHEESH!! I just couldn't seem to catch a break.  I was once again really bummed out and completely disheartened that things weren't looking as great as I had hoped. And I'm sure, like me, you all must be wondering...WILL THIS EVER END, BLAIRE?!

Yes, yes I promise this post will end very soon. Haha!

It has now been three months since my final diagnosis and I am pleased to report that my migraines have definitely become more manageable and occur much less and far in between.  And my "episodes", for the moment, seem to be under control.  WOO-HOO!!! *HAPPY DANCES* I am still required to take daily meds at this point, and will most likely need them for the rest of my life, along with regular checkups to monitor any changes or additional symptoms that may pop up.  But I am so grateful to finally feel like I'm getting back to myself again.  The windows have been opened and my dark room is now filled with light. I will admit that I hated losing so much time, having neglected my writing and all of you for so long, and without any explanation. I'm so sorry about that. But I'm sooooooo glad to be blogging again, and hope 2013 will be a little kinder than 2012.

Any who...it's great to be back! And I hope to continue to be around in some form or fashion until I kick the bucket!

Happy Writing & Happy Reading!

 

The Great Gatsby move trailer

Okay, I couldn't resist and had to sneak this one in, too.  HEY! I have a lot of time to make up for.

As some of you know, I'm a huge movie fan. HUGE! Some would call it an unhealthy obsession, but I'm sticking with "fan."

Well, I recently went to see Les Miserables....GREAT film, by the way.  A definite B+/A grade film in my book.  Which isn't bad, considering it was nearly three hours of me having to focus and sit still in a theater seat all by myself. Haha! The music, the acting, THE STORY...well played, Victor Hugo. Well played.

But leading up the FEATURE of the day...I saw THIS, and knew I couldn't keep this gem to myself.

ONE. I'm a HUGE Baz Luhrmann fan.  Man is brilliant with a camera.  But not only that, he both writes and directs his films, and he is most known for his The Red Curtain Trilogy, which includes Strictly Ballroom, Romeo + Juliet and Moulin Rouge!  I also really loved AUSTRALIA. He's one of the reasons why I divide my passion of writing between screenwriting and novels.

&

TWO. F. Scott Fitzgerald is sort of my McDreamy of the literary world. Yes, I said it. Mad crush on the guy. Oh, that Zelda was one lucky doll! Hehe. ;)

But this trailer completely sold me HOOK, LINE & SINKER!

*ahem* Well, helloooooo, LEO!!! *girly giggle*

SOLD!!!

The Great Gatsby

The Great Gatsby is set to hit theaters in May of 2013 (in the US).

Happy Writing & Happy Reading!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Soooooo, wow, yeah...I'm so out of practice with this.  Part of me feels like I need a refresher course, "How to blog with the PROS." Haha! Okay, now I'm beginning to sound snarky and that was not my intent here.

So, 2012 is over and gone and all I have to say is...SAYONARA, lady!!! HAHA!

Wow, what an...interesting year.  Yeah.  Yeah, interesting is definitely a good word for it. I won't go into the long drawn out details of it all, but it's safe to say that it wasn't exactly my year, but I SURVIVED. WOO-HOO!!! And despite everything that's happened it still feels like, at this point, I have so many great opportunities/paths set before me, and at this moment all I keep telling myself is to KEEP PUSHING FORWARD.  I really hate that my writing has suffered so much because of the curve ball that life has thrown me, but it's really nice to have this to still come back to.

I'm not sure if anyone is even listening anymore...but just so you know, I'M STILL HERE.  Just a girl.  A little altered, but still trying to make her mark in the world. But you know something, LIFE is definitely a journey. And I can confidently say that I'm so glad to be in the situation where I'm still lucky enough to still have the chance to fight for and realize my dreams and passions.

For those of you who are interested as to what I've been occupying my time the past few months. Weeeeeeeeell, I've been READING! Hah. I know, pretty lackluster but I have, like an INSANE person! Just devouring novel after novel. New authors and old familiar favorites.  When I feel my brain no longer can handle the voices of my own characters, I completely dive into the stories of other writers.  It's simply a great escape and also a form of encouragement to me.

While I have been writing here and there, going to quite a few films, and overall just figuring out what comes next for me. The landscape of my life has drastically changed, so much so, it's almost unrecognizable and now I find myself having to find a way to fit into a new landscape.  It's almost like I'm starting over, having to redefine who I am and my purpose.  Which is both scary as hell and exciting all at once.

But something about this, putting my rambling thoughts into words, and those words out into the void...THAT, for some reason, always feels familiar to me.  No matter what is going on out there, this always feels right. You know...it's nice to have that one solid in your life you know you can always come back to.

And to those who have constantly reached out to me throughout this trying time, not knowing how much it meant to me...you will FOREVER be in my heart.

So, here's to 2013!!! May ALL of YOUR dreams come true. (Yeesh, I hope Disney doesn't come after me for that one.) And for those of you who know me, this should not come as a surprise...a little kick off the year tune! I know, I know.  I've posted it before...but I LOVE this song! ENJOY!

"Good Life" by One Republic

Happy Writing & Happy Reading!

SHIFT cover reveal!!!

Well, hello there!! And what do we have here? Oh, it appears that the wonderfully talented RAINE THOMAS has done it AGAIN!!! As the creator of the Daughters of Saraqael trilogy, and now with her spin-off series the Firstborn trilogy, she has honestly proven to me that her imagination truly knows no boundaries.

So, without further delay...I present the cover of SHIFT, the second book in the Firstborn trilogy. BOOM!!!

Can you say FABULOUS!!!

SHIFT by Raine Thomas

Having the ability to shapeshift, Sophia is familiar with change. But even she feels the rising tension in her homeland.

A shadowy male and deadly beast reside in their midst. The births of the newest Kynzesti loom. Hostile Mercesti continue to hunt for the Elder Scroll, and a traumatized female is too afraid to use her abilities to stop them.

Topping off Sophia’s stress is Quincy, the male she’s convinced can’t stand her. She rues the loss of their friendship, but can’t figure out how to move past it. She’ll soon learn, however, that mending that rift bears more significance than she ever imagined.

The search for the Elder Scroll takes on unexpected urgency, and Sophia finds herself in a race across the mainland. To stop the Mercesti led by Eirik, she and her companions must get past their differences and unite against them. If they don’t, Eirik will acquire the immense power he seeks, and two of the beings Sophia loves most will die.

AAAHHH! I can't wait!!

SHIFT will be published by Iambe Books August 24th, 2012. WOOHOO!!! Mark your calendars! Now! This is going to be GREAT!!!

For more information on Raine and her work you can visit her website. You can also stalk Raine on twitter (@Raine_Thomas) and Facebook! ;D

Happy Writing & Happy Reading!!

BIG NEWS FEATURE FRIDAY

HAPPY MAY!!!

Wow, time just doesn't wanna give these days, does it?  But nonetheless here we all are.  I hope everyone else is enjoying the sweltering heat we're getting these days...I'm not.  And forgive me if I seem a little random and scattered, I'm a little rusty on my blogging these days. ;-)

But I AM excited, and admittedly very giddy about the two authors I'm featuring in today's BIG NEWS FEATURE FRIDAY!!

Today's first writer is the beautiful YA Paranormal Romance writer, Lucy Swing.  Lucy lives in sunny Florida with her husband and two kids, and is definitely a chica I can get down with.  Not only is she a fellow book hoarder who must ALWAYS have a book nearby, she's also a true lover of music.

Lucy's debut novel, FEATHERMORE (book #1 of her Feathermore Trilogy) was recently released has been called a "great", and "original, nicely paced and well-written" by her readers. 

"Feathermore"

"When the one thing you live for is taken from you, do you let it go or do you fall?

Jade, like any other student at Brushwood High, awaits the start of the school year with a certain measure of dread. Worse, she is being threatened by a voice that only she can hear—a voice that lurks at the edges of her awareness, haunting her and warning her of something unknown. She has always been able to count on her two best friends, Claire and Nate, but can she confide in them now? About this? Would they even believe her?

Life takes a turn for the better when she meets Avan, a darkly handsome new student who, somehow, seems to drown out the voice and make her feel at ease.

But Jade soon comes to realize that good things don’t last forever. When everything spirals out of control, she is shattered by something she never saw coming. Dazed and despairing, she must now overcome tragedy and embrace her true existence and a new but dangerous love. Will she be able to save herself and those she loves, before it’s too late? Or will she let the surrounding darkness consume her?"

FEATHERMORE is now available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Smashwords, and Goodreads.  Get your copy today! You can also PRE-ORDER your copy of FALLENMORE (Book #2 of the Feathermore Trilogy) available June 2012.

For more information on Lucy and her work please visit her website.  You can also find Lucy on twitter (@Luceeduceswing) and Facebook. 

*****

So even though I am SUPER SUPER late in doing this announcement, I am still CRAZY-EXCITED about today's last #BNFF author. And simply must say...FINALLY!!! Wow, you guys...this is a release that I have anxiously waited on for nearly a YEAR. Yes, readers, I said a YEAR! So, without further ado, I want to send a HUGE HUGE congratulations to the sweet and lovely YA writer, Eve Marie Mont.  Eve is a English teacher in the Philadelphia suburbs and also, sponsors her school's literary magazine. This lady is freakin' BOOM-tastic!  And she's been a writer that I've been closely stalking, *ahem* I mean, following since I first joined this crazy word of social media.  

Eve's novel, A BREATH OF EYRE is only the first novel in her YA series. And I completely fell in love with this book cover the moment she revealed it. Fabulous!

"A Breath of Eyre"

"Get lost in a good book. Literally.

 

Emma Townsend has always believed in stories—the ones she reads voraciously, and the ones she creates in her head. Perhaps it’s because she feels like an outsider at her exclusive prep school, or because her stepmother doesn’t come close to filling the void left by her mother’s death. And her only romantic prospect—apart from a crush on her English teacher—is Gray Newman, a long-time friend who just adds to Emma’s confusion. But escape soon arrives in an old leather-bound copy of Jane Eyre…

Reading of Jane’s isolation sparks a deep sense of kinship. Then fate takes things a leap further when a lightning storm catapults Emma right into Jane’s body and her nineteenth-century world. As governess at Thornfield, Emma has a sense of belonging she’s never known—and an attraction to the brooding Mr. Rochester. Now, moving between her two realities and uncovering secrets in both, Emma must decide whether her destiny lies in the pages of Jane’s story, or in the unwritten chapters of her own…"

A BREATH OF EYRE is available at these bookstores: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, IndieBound, Buy.com, and Books-A-Million.  Get your copy today!!!

For more information on Eve and her work please visit her website.  You can also follow Eve at twitter (@EveMarieMont) and Facebook. 

Well, that does it! I wish you all a FANTASTIC rest of your Friday, and as always...

Happy Writing & Happy Reading!

THE AVENGERS movie trailer!!!

Um, yeah...THIS!!!

WOO HOO!!! This looks AWESOME!

Happy Writing & Happy Reading!

DEFY is finally HERE!!!

Happy Book Birthday to DEFY!!!  That's right readers you heard correct! DEFY by the amazing Raine Thomas is now available!! What what!! *fist pumps* and *hip checks* for ALL!

Okay, yes, I am aware that it's been a while (A VERY LONG WHILE) since I last posted but what can I say, sometimes life hands you the unexpected and you have to just roll with the punches.  And even though I am a day late in posting this bit of delightful news, I couldn't let an event like this pass without showing some very much deserved love for one of my all-time favorite tweeps.



*does the happy dance around the room*

Raine is not only the creator of the Daughters of Saraqael Trilogy, which are also available at Amazon and Barnes and Noble, but also, The Prophecy.

And now her latest release, DEFY will once again take us into the beautiful world of the Estilorians...and I just LOOOOOOOOOVE this FABULOUS book cover. OMG!!!



"Defy"

"Seventeen-year-old Tate is about to make her parents’ dreams come true. Unfortunately for her, their dreams foretell her death. Eager to explore more of the Estilorian plane and prove her abilities, Tate goes against her parents’ wishes and leaves the area of protection surrounding her home. Her choice puts her on a deadly path…one that leaves her alone, severely injured and battling for her life. Her possible savior arrives in the form of Zachariah, a male who has removed himself from Estilorian society for more than fifty years. Fighting an unexpected connection to Tate, he must decide whether saving her life is worth destroying his. As Tate struggles to find a way home, she ends up drawn into a dark Mercesti plot involving multiple murders and a powerful ancient artifact. With the unpredictable Zachariah as her only source for aid, she’ll soon find out if her abilities are strong enough to help her defy her Fate."

So go purchase your copy of DEFY today, now available at Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

For more information about Raine and her work please visit her website.  You can also find her on Facebook and twitter (@Raine_Thomas).

Happy Writing & Happy Reading!

Fighting the (Writer) Blues

Tune of the day:

"Raise Your Glass" by Pink

There's a saying people often use..."If life gives you lemons, make lemonade."

If I'm intending to be honest here, then I'll admit that when life hands me lemons, sometimes I just want to take in its bitter sour taste and call it a day.  And that's a dangerously unhealthy place for anyone to be ladies and gents.  This is the place where I not only find myself uninterested in being out and about, but I also find it hard to even want to write and/or read, which is NOT me.

That's why it's very important to keep positive people, multiple positive people (if you're lucky) around that you can depend on to be there when you're down and who will come along and help pick you back up.

When I get too bogged down in the bitter truths of life I often find I lose motivation to be...me. I know that this isn't exactly a very inspiring post, but sometimes it helps just to release, and share the not-so-good things in our lives along with the good.

Lately I've been reading about some of the great writers of history and discovered that a significant number of them actually suffered from horrible bouts of depression throughout their life.  So we're not alone, this isn't some made up, fabricated issue that we sometimes find ourselves battling with.  It's real and you have to recognize it in order to do something about it.

Now knowing this, I also realize that writing can be a pretty solitary process, and to be honest I really prefer it that way.  It's hard for me to focus if I'm being bombarded by the presence of people all around me.  I even go so far as to seclude myself away from my husband and cat.  But it's important to remember that a life well and truly lived can also be a great source for good writing.  My hermit tendencies sometimes get the best of me and I literally have to force myself to be out and interact with people.

But something someone suggested to me recently has completely put a spark back into my life that I almost thought I'd lost.  They suggested I create a daily schedule for myself that includes activity that MAKES me get out from in front of a computer.  I've recently taken up a new Fitness Plan and have partnered up with another friend (who's actually in a whole other state) who acts as not only an accountability partner when I need it but also a great source of motivation. I find that having a regular workout schedule is definitely a motivator for me and also stimulates my creative mojo.  Now I'm not saying this is a sure fire way of keeping the blues away, but it's definitely an option and one that I'm really enjoying.  So a HUGE thanks to my partner in crime, Jess and my mom, Mary, who have both been a great source of support to me. You're both ROCKSTARS in my book!

So to all you readers out there...what's your method for getting out of the slumps when life gives you lemons, and you're not necessarily in the mood for lemonade?

Happy Writing & Happy Reading!

Rainy Monday Tune

When I woke this chilly, rainy Monday morning, the day before Valentine's Day, I woke up with one particular song streaming on repeat through my head. I hope you enjoy!

Tune of the day:

Billie Holiday - "P.S. I Love You"

Happy Writing & Happy Reading!

Write. Write! WRITE!!!

I can happily say that my life is gradually returning to normal.  Well, as normal as I can imagine the randomness in my life to be.  I'm writing again and feel as if I don't have enough time or space in which to get everything that's going on in my head out...but I'm definitely giving it my best go.

At this point my intent is to simply write. Nothing more.  I'm taking out the pressure of publishing and release dates and focusing purely on telling the stories I want to tell, and ultimately to see each one through to completion. Simply put, you can't publish what you haven't written. So for those who have been wondering about my more recent absence, it's simply due to the fact that I'm spending a great deal more time on my writing than I am on here. I won't lie, I do find myself feeling quite guilty about not being around as much as I once did, but hopefully my efforts will allow me to finally reach the goal that in reality started me down this path in the first place.

The goal of sharing my passion and work with all of you.

And speaking of passion, being that I've been pretty remiss in my #BNFF I thought I'd be a little tacky and include a few pretty awesome features in today's post that I find crazy exciting.

BIG NEWS:

I have to say that in the time I've come to know this guy he has grown to become one of my favorite writer tweeps who challenges me (whether he knows it or not) to step up my game and push myself to achieve my goals.

M.R. Merrick is the brilliant writer of The Protector Book series.  With his debut novel EXILED having received rave reviews upon its release, it's unsurprising that his latest novel, SHIFT (book #2 of TPB series) would receive the same reaction.  SHIFT has been called "Epic, Emotional, Pure Brilliance!" and "An adventure like you've never experienced!!" by its readers.

And I highly suggest both books be added to your MUST READS list!!

 

 "Shift"

Devastated by the loss of his mother, Chase is trying to balance the life he’s been left with, a family he’s still getting to know, and power he never thought he’d have. He doesn’t understand why the Goddess has named him the Protector and granted him two gifts: the Mark, a tattoo that now covers his back, and the ring. But between getting interrogated by the Circle and psychic attacks from Riley, the Mark is the least of his concern. There’s a demon inside Rayna that’s fighting to be released, and it’s not her inner witch. It’s something else–a monster threatening to tear her apart.

As Chase struggles to control his magic, his enemies are closing in. Everyone has staked a claim on his ring, and destroying it may be his only chance to stop Riley. But Chase must decide if stopping him is worth risking the lives of everyone he cares about, or if protecting the ring will be enough to save his world.

EXILED & SHIFT are both available on Amazon! GET YOUR COPIES TODAY!!

For more information on M.R. Merrick please visit his website! You can also find him on twitter (@MRMerrick) and Facebook.

*****

I must admit that it's writers like Samantha Young that (as a reader) keep me coming back for more. Having stumbled across her on twitter a while back, I've become quite a big fan of her work. Author of paranormal and fantasy fiction, Samantha is a brilliant young Scottish book addict who has been writing for as long as she can remember.  The creator of multiple trilogies, Samantha continues to prove that some writers truly do get better with time.  

The latest of her series that I've come across, BLOOD WILL TELL book 1 of her The Warriors of Ankh trilogy has definitely drawn me in and has left me anxious for more. 

  

"Warriors of Ankh Omnibus Edition"

(includes "Blood Will Tell", "Blood Past" & "Shades of Blood")

When the heroine and the villain are one in the same…

Eden is a Soul Eater. While that hasn’t meant much to her in the past, she’s pretty sure any minute now she’s going to go all "Carrie" on her eleventh grade class.

Noah is an Ankh. As an immortal Warrior, his purpose in life is to hunt down and kill Soul Eaters.

Together they are about to embark on a journey that will change their lives forever...

... A journey in search of Eden’s redemption.

But with enemies and tests of morality and strength around every corner, it will be a journey that pushes them both to their very limits.

Can the promise of honor, purpose and love be enough to temper the monster within?

Find out in this special omnibus edition of the Warriors of Ankh trilogy.

The entire The Warriors of Ankh trilogy is now available at Amazon US & Amazon UK.

BONUS! Book Trailer:

For more information on Samantha and her books you can visit her website! You can also follow her on twitter (@SYoungSFAuthor) and Facebook.

Happy Writing & Happy Reading!

Appreciating The Special People In Our Lives

For today's post instead of doing my weekly #BNFF, I've decided to change the tone up a bit and simply share with all of you a little about myself.

My life has been pretty topsy turvy lately...well, at least more so than usual.  Ailing family members, family crisis, bouts of depression, uncertainty, fear, and just a general sense of feeling lost and adrift.  Things that I've over course faced in the past, just not all at once. I've found myself seeking solace anywhere that would help distract my mind...watching movies, reading & writing.

But even still I found that my spurts of inspiration were often followed by an extended time of reflection. Where I would find myself asking the old cliched questions, "what am I doing?" "am I good enough?" "what makes me think I'm so special?" "am I living up to my true potential?" "am I chasing an unobtainable dream?"...basically the typical spell of self-doubt.

But unlike previous times when these funky downer moods have struck and I find myself feeling doubtful about my writing and whether I've chosen the right path for my life, I quickly throw myself back into the one thing that always reminds me why I love what I love so much.

Reading.

I LOVE to read!! And if I'm honest, I could say just as much as I enjoy writing, maybe more so. Let me repeat. I LOOOOOOVE TO READ! Ever since I was a little girl when all those weird funky looking symbols on the page suddenly started to make sense and a whole world seemed to open up to me. I was hooked.  I honestly can't explain how completely necessary books and literature have become to my life.

And if it weren't for one very special person in my life I'm not sure I would even be here writing this post for you today today, let alone writing books of my own. And that special person is my MOM.

 

Yes. I know it's not Mother's Day yet but I just felt the most powerful urge to send a HUGE thank you to my "mama" for planting the seed that has ultimately influenced and shaped me into becoming the person I am today. 

You're the best & I love you very much!!

I have a friend who sadly lost his mother last year and I know that he still feels the loss of her presence.  So if you're one of the lucky ones who can still run up and give your mom a BIG smackin' kiss and hug, I firmly suggest you do so ASAP!!  Don't take the time you have with those that you care about and love for granted. Call, text, drive/fly for a visit, I don't care how you do it...JUST DO IT!!

*dialing mom now* =)

Happy Writing & Happy Reading!

AUTHOR ALERT: Melanie Marks

I'm finding my groove people!!! And boy does it feel good to be blogging again. Still a little slow with the posts, but don't worry I'm getting back into the swing of things.

That being said...

For my first AUTHOR ALERT of 2012 I am REALLY excited and thrilled to introduce a writer that I, for the most part, accidentally stumbled across.  Haha! Now please don't let my random reading lifestyle detour you from reading further because I am pleased to introduce you to YA writer...Melanie Marks!!

*stands & claps*

Melanie was born and raised in California. She is married to a naval nuclear submarine officer with three "terrific" kids. With over sixty short stories published in various magazines Melanie has definitely created a nice cozy spot for herself in the literary world. 

I fell into serious like with Melanie after reading her long novella, HIS KISS (which I LOVED!)...it's a short but sweet YA romance.

"His Kiss"

"Ally’s world was totally on track: the right boyfriend, the right school activities, the right plans. But then she is bribed into kissing the school “bad boy.” And now nothing is right. Nothing! Because all she can think about is … His Kiss."

HIS KISS is available now on Amazon! GET YOUR COPY TODAY!!

Now unlike most of the writers I've met in the last year on twitter, I actually came across Melanie while perusing Amazon for something to read one quiet afternoon and let's just say I wasn't disappointed. Melanie has a fun, light, and witty style of writing that I find suits the reader in me perfectly, especially on a nice quiet afternoon.

For more information about Melanie and her work please visit her website. You can also follow her on twitter (@ByMelanieMarks).

Happy Writing & Happy Reading!

"The Woman In Black" Movie Trailer

So as most of you know I am a HUGE movie addict. Seriously, the stuff is like crack to me, and to add to it I also really enjoy dark films. I know...I don't really fit the mold but there you have it.  I am really looking forward to this film.

Plus, I'm interested to see Daniel Radcliffe as someone other than Harry Potter.  Enjoy!

Starring: Daniel Radcliffe

"The Woman In Black"

Eeeeek eeeeek eeeeek! BAHAHAHA! So wicked. Gotta see this!

Happy Writing & Happy Reading!

Well...

Before I say ANYTHING else I want to first say...IM SO DEEPLY SORRY for the way I sort of faded out on you guys.  There's really no valid excuse. Life just sort of overwhelmed me and I just became consumed with other things that were happening around me. But the storm has passed and I'm ready to jump back into things. Let's do this!!!

My tune of the day:

Flyleaf - "Missing"

So yeah, I am back and am anxious to dive head first into what has always brought me joy. WRITING. I really have missed you all, and I hope I haven't loss too many of you while my life sort of took some unexpected turns over the last month. I feel like I've let so many of you down, but I intend to make it up to you not with words but with BOOKS! Hahahaha! So prepare yourself, because my MOJO is back!

So now for UPDATES...

Due to all the overwhelming nature of holidays, unexpected personal/family issues and distractions I've dealt with the last month or so, the release date of I LOVE YOU, SARAH LOGAN will be pushed back to March 1st. I know, I know...I'm thoroughly disappointed as well. But sometimes life has other plans and I need time to get back into the swing of things and do what I plan to do right.

But some good news is...I will be posting the cover, a summary, and an excerpt of my debut novel in the next few weeks in the "Writing" section of my blog. Woot woot!

Am beginning the cover art work for Book 1 of my THE CREED series.


Writing a screenplay! HURRAY! For which I must confess I enjoy writing almost as much as I do novels.

So there you have it folks! My back-on-the-bandwagon writer life in nutshell. Now let's get this train moving!!!

Happy Writing & Happy Reading!!

Happy New Year! 2012 is HERE!

HAPPY NEW YEAR, ALL!!!

Wow! Can you believe this?! *dances on sofa* A new year, with a new start to make it whatever you want to make it.  No excuses but the ones YOU make.  A whole new year and I feel almost like a new person. I can't really explain how completely scared out of my mind I am about what this year promises to bring.  LOTS of big steps and firsts that's for sure...

1. I intend to self-publish my first book, I LOVE YOU, SARAH LOGAN

2. I will be releasing Book 1 of my series, THE CREED, this Spring.

3. Lastly, I will be submitting a movie script for consideration to agents this year as well.  Yes, I'm a hopeful screenwriter. I know...I'm CUH-RAZY!!!

Now obviously, there are no guarantees on how any of this will turn out for me but nothing worth going after (in my opinion) isn't without risk. So I hope you all will stick with me for the EPIC ride I intend to take in 2012.  Again, Happy New Year.

Happy Writing & Happy Reading!

ANEW by Chelsea Fine is NOW AVAILABLE!

It's FINALLY here!

The brilliantly talented Chelsea Fine, author of the tender love story SOPHIE & CARTER, has done it again with her latest novel, ANEW (Book #1 of the Archers of Avalon series).  Check it out!

(FYI...I love love loved it!)

"Anew"

"Two years ago, Scarlet awoke in the forest alone, afraid, and without her memory. Lost and confused, her life was a mystery until she met a boy with a familiar voice named Gabriel Archer. Intrigued by his voice, Scarlet immerses herself in Gabriel's life only to stumble upon a secret he's kept hidden from her: His brother. Once Scarlet meets Tristan Archer her life becomes even more muddled. While she's instinctively drawn to Gabriel, she's impossibly drawn to Tristan--and confused out of her mind. Why does Gabriel seem so familiar? Why is she so attracted to Tristan? And why are both brothers convinced she's been cursed to die? Scarlet doesn't have the answers...but the Archer brothers do."

ANEW Book Trailer:

ANEW is now available at Amazon and B&N.

For more information on Chelsea and her work check out her website! You can also follow my lovely Dream Weaver pal on twitter (@ChelseaFine) and Facebook.

Happy Writing & Happy Reading!

And the "Hook Me Up, B!" Giveaway Winner is....

ELIZABETH HYATT

and the second drawing winner for an autographed copy of ANEW & LEGEND is...

DB GRAVES

YAY! Congratulations, Elizabeth & DB! Please email me your address' and I will get your book baskets to you ASAP!

And now for the BIG NEWS that you've all been REALLY waiting for. I am very proud (and uber nervous) to announce that my young adult novel...

I LOVE YOU, SARAH LOGAN

will be released...

January 25, 2012!!!

HURRAAAAAY! There you have it, peeps. I can't tell you all how crazy excited and stomach-churning-nervous I am about finally reaching this point.  And yes, for those of you who've already made the connection...January 25th is in fact MY BIRTHDAY!!! Hehe. Let's just say it's the only way I could guarantee that I wouldn't miss my own novel debut.

But I encourage you all to keep checking back because I will continue to post fun news about ILYSL all the way up to the big day.  Lastly, I want to send a BIG thank you to everyone who participated in my giveaway. I had a total blast doing it.

Happy Writing, Happy Reading & Happy Holidays!!!



AUTHOR ALERT: Natasha Slight

Happy Monday!

*sigh*

So many great authors on my list but (unfortunately) so little time to tell you about them all.  But today's AUTHOR ALERT features the brilliant and up-and-coming writer star, Natasha Slight. Having encountered this passionate writer on twitter (of course) I can't help but feel totally on the Cool-Writers-List being that she actually follows my blog.

Say, "Whaaaaaat?" "Yup!"

A writer of both fantasy and adventure fantasy fiction for young adults. This amazing stay-at-home mom of two is an avid reader, speaker of several languages, and has traveled extensively, further expanding her love of reading.

Natasha creates stories that offer her readers unexpected twists and turns that ultimately leave them wanting more.  She writes to inspire young adults, and to unleash the imagination within. Natasha currently lives in Montreal with her husband and kids.

And she's gorgeous! *sigh* Writing the rest of this post with a paper bag over my head.

The release of her DEBUT novel, GUARDIANS OF THE GRIMOIRE, book one of The Grimoire Series has been welcomed with lush reviews. One reviewer stating "...this book took me on the most amazing, wonderful, fantastical journey and one that I have not had the pleasure of being on, for many years.  It pulls you in so deep; you need to take a moment to breathe." - Sandra Valente of SSBookFanatics

"Guardians of the Grimoire"

"What are the realms to do when a corrupt god seeks to destroy three girls? When his greed extends into the human world, and sorcerer and king alike are seduced by the promise of ultimate power hidden in the Grimoire. If man opens the book, chaos is unleashed. If a god touches the book, he shall be rendered mortal.

After being instructed by the Spirit Mother to guard the Grimoire and protect its future guardians, the goddess Gaïa must seek refuge on a hidden island and make certain the sacred book is kept safe. When they come of age, Kerani, Tiluvia, and Cesca are awakened to their destiny in becoming Guardians of the Grimoire, and so begins their journey. But in a land shrouded in magic, and filled with as many friends as there are foes, will the young women be able to reach Gaïa in time, or will the forces of evil take over Utopia and forever haunt the universes?"

BONUS! Check out the GOTG book trailer...EPIC!!!

GUARDIANS OF THE GRIMOIRE is now available at: Amazon US, Amazon UK, Amazon France, Amazon Germany, Amazon Italy, Amazon Spain, Barnes and Noble, Smashwords, Apple Store, Diesel eBook Store, and Sony.

For more information on Natasha Slight and her work please visit her website. You can also follow Natasha on twitter (@NatashaSlight) and Facebook.

Happy Writing & Happy Reading!!!

BIG NEWS FEATURE FRIDAY

Happy Friday, all!

I know it's been a while since I last posted a BNFF and I sincerely apologize to all my regular readers.  But I will be honest and say that December may also be a limited posts month. I know, I know...let the guilt commence. But with so much going on, and me spending time working on my book (occasionally frolicking on twitter) I'm afraid that time just isn't on my side when it comes to maintaining a regular posting schedule. But we'll see what I can squeeze out, but in the mean time... PLEASE FORGIVE ME?!

So not only is it Happy Friday, it's also Happy December! WINTER'S HERE FOLKS!!!

I find I've recently began to take detours on my commute home from work.  Simply driving through neighborhoods to see the twinkling lights and Christmas trees blinking happily in the windows.  I can't tell you all how much I love this time of year.  Full of all the things I love most...family, friends, parties, and FOOD!

Any who...

Let's see who sparked my fancy for today's BIG NEWS FEATURE FRIDAY!

BIG NEWS:

Today's first BNFF author I met in the mysterious world of twitter.  A lawyer by day, author by night. Fingers Murphy has definitely made me rethink my views on legal thrillers.  So after years with an agent and no deal, this wickedly funny writer struck out on his own (giving traditional publishing The Finger!) and I'm sooooo glad he did.

Fingers Murphy is the pen name of a well known international criminal defense attorney.

His novel FOLLOW THE MONEY, released May 2011, has been called a "...gripping and gritty new voice in legal thrillers."

"Follow the Money"

"ALWAYS ASSUME PEOPLE ARE LYING, BUT NEVER ASSUME YOU KNOW WHY."

Oliver Olson went to law school to help people.

But when one of the world’s most prominent law firms offers him a high paying summer job, he thinks he’d be crazy not to take it. He soon finds himself enthralled by a world of wealth, privilege, and power.

Blinded by his gilded new world, Ollie is slow to see that something is not right with the case he is assigned to work on - a case with no chance of winning, given to a "summer associate" merely to keep him busy.

Are people following him? Is he imagining things? Are they listening to his conversations? Why are people coming out of the woodwork with a sudden interest in a twelve year old murder case? And is it really possible that the wrong man went to prison?

Ollie wants to succeed, but when he sacrifices his own moral standards for a shot at the big time, he winds up staring down the barrel of a gun.

When you’ve sold out and can no longer follow your heart, you can only FOLLOW THE MONEY.

 FOLLOW THE MONEY is available at: Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Smashwords.

For more information on Fingers Murphy and his other works please visit his website. You can also follow Fingers on twitter (@fingers_murphy), Facebook, and his blog!

*****

My last BNFF is the brilliant Megg Jensen, author of the bestselling YA fantasy novels ANATHEMA, OUBLIETTE, and SEVERED...the three book in her Cloud Prophet Trilogy.  Megg is a freelancing parenting journalist since 2003 and began wiring YA novels in 2009.  She also runs DarkSide Publishing.

ANATHEMA (Book One of the Cloud Prophet Trilogy) has been called "...an engaging, richly detailed read." by Brutally Honest Book Reviews.

"Anathema"

"Forget prophecy. Make your own destiny.

Sheltered from the outside world with no hope for escape, slave girl Reychel dreads her fifteenth birthday - when her master’s symbol is burned on the back of her bald scalp. Her best friend disappears the night before, leaving her to face the branding ceremony alone. She soon discovers nothing is as it seems when people desperate for freedom beg for Reychel's help.

Can Reychel learn to believe in herself?"

OUBLIETTE (Book Two of the Cloud Prophet Trilogy)...

"Oubliette"

"Reychel thought she was finally free. She was wrong.

Everyone saw her gift of prophecy as a blessing, but her gift is uncontrollable. No one alive can teach her to manipulate her unique gift and the answers she needs lie buried within a madman’s journals.

She’s thrust in the midst of a brewing war and the only uniting factor for her people is their belief in the Prophet. Will Reychel learn to control her gift or will she be forced to deliver a false prophecy that could lead her people into a violent, unwinnable war?"

 And the newly released SEVERED (Book Three of The Cloud Prophet Trilogy)...

"Severed"

"Reychel knows her gift of prophecy will lead to madness and now she is at her most vulnerable. The enemy army will attempt to sever her from everything she's ever known: her homeland, her friends, Mark, and her gift. Even at her weakest, she refuses to give up on her desire to end the war between the Malborn and the Serenians. Reychel would do anything, even come back from the dead, to conquer the enemy and reunite with Mark."

Megg's books are available at: Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Smashwords!

For more information on Megg and her other works check out her website! You can also follow Megg on twitter (@MeggJensen) and Facebook.

Happy Writing & Happy Reading!