Write Stuff: May 2014

Friday, May 30, 2014

After Reading: FIRE OF STARS AND DRAGONS

Following the death of her uncle, twenty-one-year-old CAITRIONA HAYDEN finds herself in the midst of a trio of quintessential alpha male suitors in 22nd century sovereign America where human females should be seen and not heard.

Theo Pendragon claims her as his ward, ordained to guard her through to a long-awaited destiny unbeknownst to Cait, but finds more than he expected when passion ignites within the dragon for the first time. Always drawn to the pursuit of knowledge rather than the heat of desire, powerful demigod Dante cannot deny everything his future holds in Caitriona. America's monarch, ancient vampire Corrin, has no interest in the frivolity of love, yet marrying Cait could be the answer to his continued survival.Soon, Cait goes from studying for college exams to choosing a husband knowing the consequences are eternal, the love undying, and the bond timeless. (Goodreads)

I have been looking forward to reading this for a VERY long time, and I was definitely not disappointed! Petreshock has designed a really interesting world, with some great characters, that drew me in and kept me up very late at night. I loved the detail when it came to describing the dragons and their hierarchy, as well as the world in general. It was seriously fascinating. Also, the book gave a whole new meaning to, well, 'how to train your dragon.' Hehe! There was some serious heat to this, which was, well, enjoyable. Yeah, I'll admit it! Two small little quibbles: I had to read the first chapter a couple of times because I got a little lost. Everything was explained as things went on, but I did find myself scratching my head over the actions of a few characters. Also, I wanted to get to know Cait a little more! She seemed fascinating, but I didn't get to see her enough. I can't want to see what happens in the next book and see if a few things are explained. Overall, a very fun read and definitely something to check out!!

Have you had a chance to read this one?

Major thanks to Swoon Romance for the review copy :)

Tori and the Sleigh of Midnight Blue by Margo Sorenson

By: Meradeth Houston on 3:30 AM

Look what has an awesome new cover:

In this work of fiction, eleven-year-old Tori and her family are struggling with the Great Depression in North Dakota, and the death of her beloved papa has been the severest blow of all. To aspiring writer Tori, everything is changing for the worse--her friends are acting too grown-up, and her little brother Otto invades her privacy. When a Norwegian bachelor-farmer begins courting Mama, Tori writes in her journal that her life is about to be ruined. What will Tori discover about forgiveness and acceptance as she tries to keep her life from changing? (Goodreads)

Pretty, isn't it? I wanted to showcase Margo's new book and show it off a little here today :) It was recently re-released by NDSU and is a great middle grade read. There's a lot of typical family history and cultural stories from Scandinavian settlers on the plains, along with a little love story woven in, too. Go check it out! And while you are at it, say hi to Margo over on twitter!

After Reading: WHITE HART by Sarah Dalton

By: Meradeth Houston on 4:00 AM

Mae never asked to be craft-born. She never wanted that burden.

The realm needs magic again, and the the King of Aegunlund has been waiting for the first craft-born girl to marry his son, Prince Casimir.

In Mae's town of Halts-Walden, the ambitious miller claims his daughter Ellen is craft-born. Mae knows this is a load of hogwash, but she's glad Ellen will have the unfortunate pleasure of becoming queen instead of her. All she has to do is sit back and wait until Casimir and Ellen are married, then she will finally be free of the threat of her fate. But on that day an event so shocking and terrible occurs that Mae finds herself entering the neighbouring cursed forest on a quest she never thought she'd have to follow. Join Mae as she rides her white stag through the Waerg Woods with a pampered prince at her heels. She's out for revenge and nothing, no one, will get in her way. (Goodreads)

Thanks to the author for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!

I've seen several of Dalton's books around and was curious about them, so I jumped at the chance to read White Heart. I was no disappointed! I really enjoyed reading about Mae and her world, the magic therein, and all the adventures she goes through. The Waerg Woods had some crazy surprises hidden within it, and I enjoyed watching Mae battle her way through them. She was an amazingly strong character, with flaws of course, but still, I appreciated her tenacity and unwillingness to give up. Her relationship with Casimir was a bit predictable, but I liked the Ellen-element and found myself still drawn into their tale. Basically, this was a fun, quick read, with one heck of a cliffhanger ending that has left me hoping for the next book soon!

Have you read any of Sarah Dalton's books?

Release Day for REFLECTION by Kim Cresswell

By: Meradeth Houston on 3:00 AM

The Difference Between Mystery and Suspense

Although mystery is an element found in every genre…what if there weren’t any secrets to uncover or bad guys to catch? Would you want to turn the pages and continue reading? Romance, romantic suspense, thrillers, historical and other genres all have some sort of element of mystery.

Mystery novels involve a puzzle—a game of whodunit. A crime usually happens and it’s up to the protagonist to uncover the truth.

In a suspense novel–a threat and imminent danger must be resolved not a puzzle being resolved.

Something is coming. Thunder. Footsteps. Bad guys. Run! Run! Run!

It’s the ticking bomb concept.

A suspense novel builds then ebbs creating an emotional rollercoaster and the author ensures it crashes at the right moment with a big bang.

The protagonist in a suspense novel is usually tossed into the role of the hero, and in most cases without preparation or the necessary skills. He or she would rather be working or at home with their family etc., but someone has made that impossible by putting the hero’s home or loved ones in danger.

In suspense novels, the stakes are much higher with the threat reaching an impossible level.

In my debut romantic suspense, REFLECTION (A Whitney Steel Novel), my heroine Whitney Steel is an investigative reporter determined to nail the “story of a lifetime” because her colleagues have always made their opinions clear: Between her father’s luster as a war correspondent and her ex-husband’s political connections she’s had a free ride to get where she is in her career.

But her journey to get the “big story” is not going to be easy as she battles billionaire, Biotech company owner, Nathan Shaw–who will do ANYTHING to keep his illegal human cloning project concealed from outsiders.

Reflection is a deeply emotional romantic suspense that starts bold and holds you captive to the very end.” —New York Times Bestseller, Dianna Love

“Action packed from page one…an impressively laid out passionate thrill ride!” —InD’Tale Magazine (http://www.indtale.com)

“I was looking forward to reading about Whitney and Blake. I anticipated a Booth and Bones relationship (from the Bones TV Series) and I wasn’t wrong…this book is definitely worth reading.” —Quality Reads UK Book Club

Amazon: www.amazon.com/Kim-Cresswell/e/B00B5LKAXA

Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/c/kim-cresswell

About the Author

Kim Cresswell resides in Ontario, Canada. Trained as a legal assistant, Kim has been a story-teller all her life but took many detours including; working in legal and adult education before returning to her first love, writing.

Her debut romantic suspense, REFLECTION, has won numerous awards: RomCon's 2014 Readers' Crown Finalist (Romantic Suspense), InD'tale Magazine 2014 Rone Award Finalist (Suspense/Thriller), UP Authors Fiction Challenge Winner (2013), Silicon Valley's Romance Writers of America (RWA) "Gotcha!" Romantic Suspense Winner (2004) and an Honourable Mention in Calgary's Romance Writers of America (RWA) The Writer's Voice Contest (2006).

LETHAL JOURNEY was a finalist in RomCon's 2014 Readers' Crown and From the Heart Romance Writers (FTHRW) Golden Gate Contest (2003).

Her action-packed suspense and thrillers have been highly praised by reviewers and readers. As one reviewer said, "Buckle up, Hang on tight!"

Kim recently entered the true crime writing arena. Real Life Evil - A True Crime Quickie (two short stories) was published in January 2014. You can read her latest true crime stories in Serial Killer Quarterly, a new quarterly e-magazine published by Grinning Man Press.

Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Kim-Cresswell/e/B00B5LKAXA

Website: www.kimcresswell.ca

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KimCresswellBooks

Twitter: @kimcresswell

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6898395.Kim_Cresswell

How I Found the Write Path bloghop

By: Meradeth Houston on 4:00 AM

The awesome Carrie Butler and PJ Hrezo put together this awesome series of posts discussing the many roads we've all traveled in our writing lives. Check out the full list of participants here--there are some amazing posts to read!

Dear 2003 me,

First off, for the love of all things, please learn how to correctly use a comma. It would be SO super useful now and spare your poor copy editor a huge headache :)

Okay, writing, you know, that hobby thing that you've always wanted to do more with, and after taking a few great courses in college, actually want to try and find a way to be published. It's time to get to work. I know you spend much of your spare time behind your keyboard, but if you want to get something out into the world, it's time to start spending some serious time with the craft. Learn how to create a character arc, how to build the world on paper that's been living in your head, and how to ask for help. Finding a great community of other writers will be the best thing you ever do: get on that!

Me and my college roommate (she's the one in red) in 2013!

Also, it's time to get over yourself. As in, stop being so shy about your writing. It's nothing to be ashamed of. You know, your friends will probably be interested in what you write about, if you'd ever tell them. Your family will eventually come to grips that you'd much rather write YA fantasy than the next great American novel, and the sooner that happens, the better. So find a way to get out of your shell a little. The real world doesn't bite--too hard at least.

The writing world is going to take you for a serious ride. There will be a whole lot of ups, downs, and
blind corners. And there will be times you want to quit. (Hello, stay AWAY from that delete all button--you know what I'm talking about!) But sticking with it will have its rewards. Especially in the awesome people you'll meet along the way. And while I can't say yet whether it's totally worth it, it has been a blast. So dig in, have some fun, and for the love of Pete, learn how to use that comma!

~2014 me

After Reading: HOLD ME TIGHT by Faith Sullivan

By: Meradeth Houston on 3:00 AM

I'm woefully behind on my book reviews, so I'll be catching up this week with a couple of my recent awesome reads :) First and absolutely one to go and buy NOW, is this awesome gem:

He loves me. He loves me not.

Ivy's heart shatters upon hearing Eric's crushing ultimatum. Despite how much she cares for him, she won't give in to his demands. She has no choice but to leave, even if it's the hardest thing she's ever had to do.

She loves me. She loves me not.

When Ivy walks out, Eric can't help feeling betrayed. Unwilling to put her at risk, he values her safety above all else. By refusing to compromise, he's blindsided when she moves in with a man who's already stolen so much from him.

I love you. You love me not.
Lauren sees Eric and Ivy's split as an opportunity to end their relationship once and for all. When Ivy places herself at the mercy of Eric's rival, Lauren plots to destroy the fragile tie binding them together, even if she endangers Ivy's life in the process. (Goodreads)

I've reviewed the other two books in this series before, and the last book in the Take Me Now series was an utterly amazing wrap-up of this series. I'm a huge fan of Sullivan's work and I will absolutely read everything she writes, because not only is she a great writer, but I love the complex and real characters she creates. I can't stop rooting for them! Sullivan doesn't shy away from creating characters who aren't perfect, which I find refreshing and makes her stories so real and easy to identify with. Even in this book, I actually found myself feeling sorry for Lauren, who has clearly gone 'round the bend on the sanity street, but once we get a picture of what's going on in her life, it makes so much more sense. Not that it makes it okay...but I don't want to get into spoilers :) Lets just say it's quite a ride throughout this whole book and I found myself gripping my kindle with both hands a few times (for very different, er, reasons), as well as reaching for the tissue box more than once. I will say this: I never would have thought of a pocket knife in that way...and definitely will have a certain scene come to mind forever whenever I see one now! Anyhow, verdict: absolutely a must-read series, and I can't wait to read the next book Sullivan puts out!

WONDERFULLY WICKED blog tour and interview with CJ Burright

By: Meradeth Houston on 3:00 AM

I have a great book to showcase today, one that is not-so-patiently-waiting for me on my kindle :) Please say hello to C.J.! You can check out the book on Amazon, as well as the rest of the tour schedule!

Do you have a routine that you use to get into the right frame of mind to write?

Coffee annnnnd go! No, seriously, coffee. Since I have a full-time day job, I have to be ready to write whenever the opportunity arises—while boss is in trial (shhhhh!), when hubby’s away fishing, weekends in between laundry and cleaning the cat box, every evening my brain isn’t short-circuiting from life outside of my writing world...I guess ‘routine’ doesn’t really apply to me. 

Where did you get the idea or inspiration for WONDERFULLY WICKED?

Not too far into the story, my heroine Kalila frequents her favorite coffee shop, stalked by Lydon, the contagonist. That’s the vision that started this journey, Kalila waiting for her coffee, her wannabe murderer standing right behind her. I needed to know why he stalked her, how she knew he wanted to kill her, what would keep him from killing her. I’m a total pantser, but I didn’t want to add another vampire or werewolf tale to the Been-There-Done-That Sea. I wanted something different, and since I’ve always been fascinated with dreams, I created my own supernatural creatures: dreamcasters and the V’alkara. Kalila and Lydon took it from there.

What was your favorite part writing this novel? Don’t forget to tell us why.

Ooh, hard one! I’m always a sucker for a HEA, so the moment of mutual love confession is always super-satisfying, but I had a ton of fun writing the scenes where Lydon invades Kalila’s dreams. As a writer creating my own world, there’s already a sense of freedom, and the dream sequences widen that window. Situations that couldn’t happen in their reality have no barriers while in the dream, so anything goes--some laughs, some heat, and some frights.

What was the most difficult part writing this novel?

The love scenes, for sure. Kalila isn’t much of a mushy-gushy character, so playing on all the senses while blending sensual action with emotion…I wanted to get it just right. Two of my critique partners write at a higher heat level, so they helped whip my scenes into satisfying shape. Fighting scenes are so much easier for me to write. I’ve got a bit of a violent streak. 

What do you like to do when you are not writing?

Besides tackling my mountainous TBR list? I’m a bit of a baseball fan, specifically the Seattle Mariners. Gardening. Working out has always been a priority, although I wouldn’t exactly add it to my “like to do” list…I like the results, not the physical torture, although inspiration seems to strike while I’m running. Not that I increase my run days. Don’t want to overdose on ideas. Give me good movies, good company, good wine, and I’m fine.

Any future writing news you would like to share?

I have a medieval fantasy romance out on submission that I hope will find a home soon—two of my favorite characters ever! I’m also in the countdown to finishing the sequel to Wonderfully Wicked (Beautifully Burned), which focuses on Daxen’s story, a secondary character in WW. He’s very damaged, and the road to healing his soul, self-discovery, and love is filled with pot holes and dead ends. Not to mention another reluctant dreamcaster. Nothing’s ever easy, right?

A dreamcaster with the ability to channel creatures from her nightmares, headstrong and cynical Kalila Montgomery longs for a peaceful, picket-fence life… until the man literally of her dreams kidnaps her.

Survival quickly becomes her number one goal, yet a growing attraction to the man in her nightmares is impossible to ignore. While she fears he will kill her, other, more terrifying enemies surround her, and Kalila succumbs to his scheme to escape. She may be his one hope for freedom…

A deadly combination of power, cunning, and cold-hearted charm, Lydon v’al Endrian fears nothing. Feels nothing. Chained to a brotherhood of men with the supernatural ability to invade dreams, he hunts dreamcasters to be harvested for their dreams and killed. His target: Kalila Montgomery. But Kalila awakens an undeniable dark desire and a longing for a freedom long-lost.

To gain everything he craves, Lydon must seduce Kalila before his plot is discovered… a hopeless challenge which, if failed, will earn him a death-sentence. Caught up in a dangerous world of secrets and obsession, doubt and betrayal, Kalila and Lydon face the nightmare of their lives, where love will either deliver them—or destroy them both.

About the Author

C. J. Burright was born and raised in Oregon and loved it so much she never left. While she has worked for years in a law office, she chooses to avoid writing legal thrillers and instead leans toward urban fantasy, paranormal romance, or–since all things medieval and magic fascinate her–fantasy romance. A member of Romance Writers of America and Secretary for the Fantasy, Futuristic & Paranormal special interest chapter, C. J. also has her 4th Dan Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do and believes stories should always include a gratuitous fight scene. In what spare time she has, she enjoys working out, reading, gardening, and rooting on the Seattle Mariners with a nice glass of wine. She shares a house with her husband, daughter, and a devoted herd of cats. C. J. is represented by Brittany Booker of The Booker Albert Literary Agency.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

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SNIP, SNIP REVENGE by Medeia Sharif

By: Meradeth Houston on 3:00 AM

I'm stoked to spend a little time spreading the love for Medeia's book! She's an amazing blogger her books are definitely worth checking out!

SNIP, SNIP REVENGE by Medeia Sharif

YA Contemporary, Evernight Teen
Release Date April 25, 2014

Beautiful, confident Tabby Karim has plans for the winter: nab a role in her school’s dramatic production, make the new boy Michael hers, and keep bigoted Heather—with her relentless Ay-rab comments—at bay. When a teacher’s lie and her father’s hastiness rob her of her beautiful hair, her dreams are dashed. The fastest barber in Miami Beach has made her look practically bald.

With all her pretty hair gone, Tabby doesn’t believe she fits the feminine role she’s auditioning for. Michael is still interested in her, but he’s playing it cool. Heather has taken to bullying her online, which is easier to do with Tabby’s ugly haircut. Tabby spearheads Operation Revenge, which proves satisfying until all of her problems deepen. After messing up, she sets to make things right.

Author Bio

I’m a Kurdish-American author who was born in New York City, and I presently call Miami my home. I received my master’s degree in psychology from Florida Atlantic University. After becoming a voracious reader in high school and a relentless writer dabbling in many genres in college, I found my niche writing for young people. Today I'm a MG and YA writer published through various presses. In addition to being a writer, I'm a middle school English teacher. My memberships include Mensa, ALAN, and SCBWI.

Find Medeia

Blog | Twitter | Goodreads | Instagram | Amazon

ONE LUCKY NIGHT interview with Melinda Dozier

By: Meradeth Houston on 4:00 AM

It's my pleasure to have Melinda join us here today! Be sure to say hello!!

Website: www.melindadozier.com

Twitter: www.twitter.com/melindadozier

Facebook: www.facebook.com/melindadoz

(Q) I think it’s pretty safe to say that most writers love reading. What are some of the books that influenced you the most? Anything you’d like to recommend?

I’m a huge Jill Shalvis fan and strive to write like her. Her writing is full of quirky characters, funny remarks and a load of sexiness. Check out her Lucky Harbor series, if you haven’t already. I also love her Animal Magnetism series.

(Q) What is your favorite part of the writing process? What about it makes you love it?

I love the start of the writing process, where I get to create my story in my head. My starting point is always my characters. Who do I want my hero to be? Who would my readers enjoy? It’s just fantastic to create a possible book boyfriend. The hero is my favorite!

I hope that readers love Killian Whelan, the youngest brother in One Lucky Night. He was a fun hero to create because he’s the serious one ̶ a paramedic student and part-owner of The Brazen Head. Unlucky for him, he’s forced to wear a kilt during his shift at work. From there, everything turns a little strange on that snowy evening in Boston.

(Q) What’s your biggest pet-peeve when it comes to the writing world? Does anything get under your skin and itch?

Honestly, the writing world has been amazing! It’s hard to nit-pick and find something that’s a pet-peeve. I guess I would have to say the negativity in the business, such as bad reviews with no reason why or without even reading the story in the first place, dishonesty and inconsistencies with publishers making it hard for authors to trust anyone in the business.

For the majority of the time I’m surrounded by nothing but positive and feel truly blessed by the friendships I’ve made and the publishers I’m working with now.

(Q) If you could meet any writer, living or dead, and pick their brain over coffee/tea/hot-chocolate, who would it be? What would be your first question?

Can I say Jill Shalvis, again? Actually, I’d like to have a girl’s night out with Jill Shalvis and Kristin Higgins. Those ladies are a riot when they’re together. My first question would be Channing Tatum or Joe Manganiello?

One night can change everything…

The crew at Boston’s Brazen Head Pub hasn’t been very lucky in love. Can a mysterious visitor inspire them to look past old hurts and misconceptions and give romance a chance? One Lucky Night is a collection of five sexy interwoven novelettes by Aria Kane, Grace Teague, Ana Blaze, Constance Phillips, and Melinda Dozier.

Lucky Break by Aria Kane

Four years ago, chef Derek Chase walked out of Andrea Rivera’s life after a tragedy neither of them were prepared to deal with. When she’s called to the Brazen Head to repair a dishwasher, old sparks ignite buried feelings.

Lucky Star by Grace Teague

When her life is threatened by a mugger, Charlotte Price realizes she's in love with her best friend, Tommy Leung. The Brazen Head seems like the perfect neutral place to confess her feelings, but nothing goes according to plan.

A New Tune by Ana Blaze

When it comes to dating, Holly Hall has one unbreakable rule: no musicians. Not even gorgeous ones. Especially not gorgeous ones. Dating them only leads to heartbreak. So why did she let singer-songwriter Cian O’Neill kiss her? And why is she thinking about doing it again?

Lexi’s Chance by Constance Phillips

As a bartender, Sean Whelan meets all kinds of women every night, but none turn his head the way that Lexi has. She’s been playing cat and mouse with him for weeks. Tonight, Sean’s determined to get Lexi to quit teasing and take a real chance on him.

Drink or Dare by Melinda Dozier

A bachelorette party Drink or Dare game pairs paramedic students, Rachel Robertson and Killian Whelan, in a flirting match. Soon, the dares threaten to turn their academic rivalry into something much more.

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21457339-one-lucky-night

Amazon: http://amzn.to/1iPnwKJ

iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/book/isbn9781311147424

B&N: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/one-lucky-night-ana-blaze/1119268966

Other retailers: http://www.ariakane.com/p/one-lucky-night.html

Check out the book trailer!

About the Authors

Aria Kane is a recovering mechanical engineer and romance writer. As a military brat, she grew up all over the country, but now lives in sunny Florida with a 60 lb mutt who thinks he's a chihuahua.

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Pinterest | Goodreads

Grace Teague lives in Pittsburgh with her spouse, children and a cat named Mr. Sushi.

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

Ana Blaze lives near Washington DC with her charming husband and three cats who firmly believe they are royalty. Ana is a member of Romance Writers of America.

Constance Phillips lives in Ohio with her husband, two ready-to-leave-the-nest children, and four canine kids. Her perfect fantasy vacation would involve hunting Dracula across Europe with her daughter, who also digs that kind of stuff.

Melinda Dozier teaches English to middle schoolers by day and writes at night. She lives in Guatemala, Central America with her college sweetheart and three sons.

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Pinterest | Goodreads

Giveaway

The authors are giving away two Amazon Giftcards!

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