Title: Branded

Author: Abi Ketner & Missy Kalicicki

Release Date: June 28, 2013

Genre: Mature Young Adult, Dystopian

Reveal Host: Lady Amber’s Tours

Book Description:
Twenty years ago the Commander came into power and murdered all who opposed him. In his warped mind, the seven deadly sins were the downfall of society. He created the Hole where sinners are branded according to their sins and might survive a few years. At best.
Now LUST wraps around my neck like blue fingers strangling me. I’ve been accused of a crime I didn’t commit and now the Hole is my new home.

Darkness. Death. Violence. Pain.

Now every day is a fight for survival. But I won’t die. I won’t let them win.
The Hole can’t keep me. The Hole can’t break me.
I am more than my brand. I’m a fighter.
My name is Lexi Hamilton, and this is my story.

Author Bios:

Abi Ketner Is a registered nurse with a passion for novels, the beaches of St. John, and her Philadelphia Phillies. A talented singer, Abi loves to go running and spend lots of time with her family. She currently resides in Lancaster, Pennsylvania with her husband, triplet daughters and two very spoiled dogs.

Melissa Kalicicki received her bachelor’s degree from Millersville University in 2003. She married, had two boys and currently lives in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Aside from reading and writing, her interests include running and mixed martial arts. She also remains an avid Cleveland sports fan.

Abi and Missy met in the summer of 1999 at college orientation and have been best friends ever since. After college, they added jobs, husbands and kids to their lives, but they still found time for their friendship. Instead of hanging out on weekends, they went to dinner once a month and reviewed books. What started out as an enjoyable hobby has now become an incredible adventure.

Links:
twitter @abiandmiss.com

website and blog www.abiandmissy.com

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

goodreads http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17402117-branded
Book Trailer: http://video214.com/play/PlssJogkXB4H85hKKomnOA/s/dark

Synopsis

Linc knows Wyn is the girl for him.

Wyn knows Linc is the boy for her.

But she’s promised to another.

Lincoln “Linc” Tatman had been at his new school for months and he thought he’d met all the girls it had to offer. Until one day, he spied Wyn sitting against a tree and realized this new place had been hiding the girl of his dreams. He goes out of his way to get to know her, even though he’s warned that it’s a hopeless case. But he’s determined to win her, even if she can only be his for a short time.

Arwyn “Wyn” Scott is the black sheep of her big gypsy family. When most of the girls her age are dropping out to start their own families, she begs her parents to stay. She doesn’t fit in with the gypsy teens and the regular teens are too afraid of her five older brothers to get close. Then Linc comes into her life, showing her a new life she never thought she could have. She can’t stop herself from falling head first for the boy.

Can Wyn leave behind her family and their traditions to follow her heart, or will she become a young gypsy wife?

Author Bio:

Michelle is a 28 year old native Ohioan. Go Buckeyes! Who now lives with her husband and son in West Virginia. When she isn’t spending time with her family you can find her with her nose stuck in a good book. She released her first book (Reviving Bloom) as an independent author in October 2012 and plans to release two new books (Promised & Enlightening Bloom) in 2013.

Author links:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/#!/MichelleTurnerAuthor

Blog: http://michelleturnerauthor.blogspot.com/

 EXCERPT

“Linc, there are things in my life that you can’t understand and this,” She waves her hand back and forth between the two of us, “will never be able to work out.”

“You can’t know that. You’re not even giving us a chance.” I cross my arms.

She throws up her arms, “You want to know how this will go if I give in?”

“Yeah, since apparently you’re a psychic, tell me how this will go, Wyn.”

“Say my family doesn’t find out, which is highly unlikely. And say if they do find out and they don’t hurt you. And Linc, those are two huge obstacles to overcome right off the bat. Well, say we overcome those, then what?” She runs her hands through her hair before she continues, “We’ll spend a few weeks, a few months it we’re lucky, together. But it won’t last after that, Linc. It’ll be over and we’ll be left with what? Nothing.”

“You’re wrong, Wyn. We’ll have the memories and I’d rather have those than nothing.” I want to reach out and grab her. I want to hold her in my arms but I know she has boundaries that I’m not use to and I can’t cross them. I’m afraid to even hold her hand, that it might cross some unseen line.

“I’m not sure I can handle the memories. Because if you give me everything I think you can and things turn out the way I know they will, I won’t be able to handle them. Knowing I had you and I had to let you go. I can’t do that, Linc.” There’s a quiver in her voice and I have to shove my hands in my pockets to keep from reaching out for her.

“You won’t have to let me go.”

“Yes, I will.”

“The only way I’m going anywhere is if you decide you don’t want me around.” I promise her.

“It won’t be me who pushes you away.”

“Well, I can promise I won’t push you away. I want to be with you, Wyn.”

“I’m promised, Linc.” As the words leave her lips, I watch the tears begin to escape her eyes.

“Explain please.” I have a feeling I know what it means but I need to hear it aloud.

“My Dad informed me last night that someone expressed interest in my hand. He’s going to accept the proposal.” She’s watching my face as she finishes, “I’m going to be married.”

Title: The Star

Author: Clemy Warner

Release Date: June 3rd, 2013

Genre: Young Adult, Dark Fantasy

Reveal Host: Lady Amber’s Tours

Blurb:
Abbii had been afraid of the dark for four long years. She hated the eerie silence that filled the night.

She would often try to forget by closing her eyes at night, but she would always be met by dreams of Shadows that would attack her, dragging her into the Darkness. Most nights, she would simply lie there with her bedding wrapped tightly around her, staring at the light coming in through her window, hoping that she would drift off into a dreamless sleep.

Ever since that day four years ago, the dark had frightened her; she had thought it would be a curse throughout the whole of her life, but something changed when she met him.

The dark seemed to lose its power and the moon’s light brightened.

Her dreams didn’t stop; nightmares still stole her sleep, but there was always a figure of Light that would save her and allow her to wake.

He said the same thing every night in her dreams. Keep fighting, Abbii.

She thought that he was part of her imagination, someone that she had created to save her, until she met him and was drawn into his bright hazel eyes.

His name was Nate.

Author Bio:

I was born in England in the West Midlands in 1991 where I am still currently living, growing up alongside one younger and three older brothers.

Books and writing was an interest that I began to develop from the first years of secondary school, and on my thirteenth birthday, I began to plan and design the idea to write a fantasy novel. I finished secondary school with high GCSE’s and then went on into further education to study English and all aspects of art and design. After six years of writing, planning and overall editing of the book, it was successfully completed, containing over 82,000 words, and self published in the first week of 2011.

With high expectations in myself, I immediately began to write a second novel in the series, while keeping my art and design a part of the process. The achievement of completing the first novel ‘Purest Light,’ allowed the ideas of the second to flow much easier and it was completed by early 2012. As I was writing the third and final book, New Beginnings, at the same time, the series was finished by its publication in 2013.

Writing is now a part of my everyday and I have started on my newest project, The Star, which is also planned to be the first of three. Only time will tell.

Excerpt:
Nate signalled for her to move forward, watching as she did after a brief hesitation. She stopped several strides in front of him and waited for him to speak. “How many windows are there?”

Not really understanding the relevance of counting windows, Abbii turned to count them.

“No!”

Startled by Nate’s outburst, she glared at him, more out of shock than malice.

“Without turning.” He watched as confusion took over her face. “Close your eyes and focus on the energy of the sunlight beaming through the glass.”

Abbii shuffled in her place, not really understanding, but when Nate smiled, she did as she was asked. She closed her eyes, immediately feeling self conscious that Nate’s gaze was focused onto her.

“Clear your mind of everything else. Think of somewhere you feel calm.”

Keeping her eyes closed, Abbii took in Nate’s statement. She felt her heartbeat increase and her breath seemed shallow, but as she relaxed her shoulders, the rest of her body seemed to follow. She listened to the faint breeze that circled through the large space, hearing leaves pitter-pattering against the wooden floor.

“Anywhere you feel calm.”

Although her mind was full of questions and worries and a fear that she would lose herself, Abbii found that an image began to form in her head. Bursts of blue and silver light soothed her, and once the image had focused, she realised why. She could see the lake at The Everglades, with the moon reflected clearly upon its surface. The stars were shining brightly, and the air was still. The feeling of calm which enveloped her felt uplifting.

“Now keep that feeling inside of you and focus onto the light of the sun.”

Not at all distracted by Nate’s words, Abbii kept hold of the calmness inside of her and expanded her mind in some way, feeling the energy of the sunlight. She could feel its warmth and the way it passed through the glass of the bay windows. The years of dirt and dust made no difference; the power of the sunlight beamed through it without faltering.

“How many are there, Abbii?”

Realising that she could sense several different areas of the sunlight’s energy, Abbii realised that each one represented one of the windows.

There are eight.

Book Name: Touching Fire
Author: Airicka Phoenix
Series: Touch Saga, book 2
Publisher: Airicka Phoenix
Release date: June, 2013
Genre: Young Adult Paranormal Romance.
Warnings: Strong language and mild sexual content
Formats: ebook & paperback
Other Novels:
Touching Smoke (Touch Series, book 1) ebook – http://www.amazon.com/Touching-Smoke-Touch-Series-ebook/dp/B008RB72NW

Touching Eternity (Touch Series Beginning) ebook – http://www.amazon.com/Touching-Eternity-Touch-Series-ebook/dp/B00AQQDVTU/ref=pd_rhf_gw_p_t_1
Games of Fire (ebook) – http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BFIR2HU

Whispered Beginnings: A Clever Fiction Anthology (ebook) – http://www.amazon.com/Whispered-Beginnings-Fiction-Writers-Anthology/dp/1617521221
Midnight Surrender Anthology (ebook) – http://www.amazon.com/Midnight-Surrender-Paranormal-Anthology-ebook/dp/B009M9EMT0/ref=tmm_kin_title_0

Social Networks:
Twitter (@AirickaPhoenix) – https://twitter.com/#!/AirickaPhoenix
Facebook – http://www.facebook.com/pages/Airicka-Phoenix/252135634831614?ref=hl
Design Page – https://www.facebook.com/pages/Airickas-Mystical-Creations/462373910480084
GoodRead – http://www.goodreads.com/AirickaPhoenix
Pinsterest – http://pinterest.com/airickaphoenix
Author Site – http://airickaphoenix.com/Author

Touching Fire Synopsis

Fallon’s on the run again, but this time, she’s not alone and she has a direction — she’s going to meet the man whose blood runs through her veins, the only man who can finally tell her who… what she is and why Garrison wants her so badly. But the truth may be more than she can handle when she falls from one world into another, one that shouldn’t exist and learns truths about herself that she may wish she never knew.
Faced with a reality so beyond comprehension, Fallon must accept the destiny she’s given because Garrison will stop at nothing to insure the success of The Amalie Project, even if he must do the unthinkable and become just like Fallon.
Touch Vengeance. Touch Malice. Touch Fire.

Excerpt
He was still waiting when I joined him again, composed. He stood with his back against the wall, his hands lost deep into the folds of his pockets. He was studying his shoes, his hair falling in thick fringes over his eyes. Those blue eyes rose, crystalline pools of electricity, and met mine, and my world stopped. My breath stopped. My heart would have stopped if it wasn’t drumming a tempo of pure elation at the sight of him. It ached, so desperate for the need to be closer. God, it was never close enough. I could crawl into him, burrow into his soul and it wouldn’t be enough.
I took a step closer, as unsteady as a new born calf. He caught my hand, reeled me to him without ever pushing away from the wall. I was pulled into the space between his feet, held there as he bent my arm and twisted it around my own waist. I was pressed into him, his thighs hard against mine. I felt his heartbeat through the fingertips he traced over the curve of my cheek.
“Stop touching me,” I gasped, cotton-mouthed, half-crazed by the possibility that he might take me seriously.
“Why?” His breath fanned over my dry and already parted lips.
I opened my eyes, surprised to find them closed. “Because I won’t want you to stop.”
The band of steel around my waist tightened until I was supported only by him, by his arm, his chest, his heat, his scent… God, I was home! My fingers curled into the soft material of his fresh, clean shirt. He must have changed, but it was yet another black t-shirt.
“I can’t.” His lips wrote each word against mine in the caress of butterfly wings.
My bones liquefied. I nearly fainted.
“Why?” The single word was a mere movement of my lips.
His free hand shackled my chin, guided my face up, held me prisoner to eyes much too animal to be human. “Because I don’t want to stop.”
If there was ever any possibility of remembering to breathe, it was gone. I was barely conscious, barely even sane as I sunk into blissful madness cured only by his lips… his touch.
“Touch me!” My desperate plea was met with a fierce growl.
His eyes, dark, feral, bore into mine. “Not here!”
I opened my mouth to protest, to beg, but his finger against my lips became a barricade, trapping the words on my tongue.
“Don’t!” he hissed. His finger drew back, traced the curve of my bottom lip. His eyes followed the slow caress the way a cat watches a canary. “I can’t promise I’m completely in control right now.”

Author Bio
Airicka Phoenix is the best-selling author of the Touch Series with short stories in Whispered Beginnings: A Clever Fiction Anthology and Midnight Surrender Anthology. When she’s not hammering away at the keyboard, she can be found banishing pirates or crawling through the attic looking for lost treasure with her kids. She loves baking, gardening and reading. She also likes to travel and take pictures of everything she comes across. When asked, Airicka describes herself as a sarcastic basket case that has an unhealthy addiction to chocolate, old movies and really bad jokes. She loves to laugh, make friends and write. If she could have one wish granted, it would be to spend one day as a fly-on-the-wall inside Stephen King’s mind. If she could have two wishes granted, she would ask for a castle dedicated entirely to her overwhelming collection of books.

For more about Airicka, also on how to win giveaways, read author interviews and reviews, visit her website at: http://airickaphoenix.com/Author

I’m super excited to share the cover for Broken Prince! It is book two in the The Broken Ones and will be released June 1st!

Sometimes, when you’re broken, you can heal on your own. Sometimes, you need the help of your friends, your family, and the people you love. Keeping those pieces together when the world seems intent on ripping you apart is the greatest challenge of all. Especially when the ones you love, the ones who hold you together, start falling apart themselves.

Arowyn and her family continue on their journey to return the Elven Prince, Shael, to his homeland before he fades and dies. A journey full of triumph and horror, love and sorrow, rips them apart with every fighting moment, and yet brings them together as a family. They don’t allow the prophecy to rule their lives. Some don’t believe, some don’t care.  Prophecies aren’t written in stone. Events can change. People can change. They are only words. From besieged cites, to the elusive Were and wild Fey, nothing quite prepares them to face their deadliest of enemies, one they didn’t know existed.

Genre: YA/NA Fantasy

Length: 85k+ words

Release Date: June 1 2013

Have you read the first book, Broken Aro, yet? It’s FREE May 1-5 on Amazon! Grab your copy! CLICK!

Open your eyes to darkness. What do you see? Does the darkness frighten you? Now imagine the darkness being the cargo hold of a slave ship. Your city has fallen. Your family is most likely dead. You don’t know anyone around you, and some of them aren’t even human. Giving up would be so easy to do, but not for Arowyn Mason. Not after being raised in a military family with seven brothers. Every great story should begin with a plan. Aro’s was to escape and to survive.

Escape comes, but at a price. As they reach the shore, Aro and the other survivors learn that freedom doesn’t mean safety. The slavers want their property back and will do anything to get it. The party uses every ounce of their brute strength, a hearty helping of cunning, and even ancient magics to keep themselves alive. Sickness, danger, and even love surprise them at every turn. Dealing with danger becomes their way of life, but none of them ever considered that nothing can be quite as dangerous as a prophecy. Running turns into another race altogether as her world falls to pieces again and again.

Twitter: @jen_wylie

Goodreads:  http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4499919.Jen_Wylie

Facebook fan page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Jennifer-Wylie/151266004895266

Amazon Author page: http://www.amazon.com/Jen-Wylie/e/B004HQ9XD8/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_1

In a nutshell, the “Tell A Story Day” blog chain tale will kick off on April 15th and run to the 26th. The first post will be the morning of Monday the 15th. After that, each writer will post the next section of the story and a link to the next writer’s website or blog. We’ll be adding to the story a couple times a day for twelve days straight.

Join us on this chaotic, messy, and epic journey, learn about some new authors you might not otherwise hear about, and most of all, giggle along with the rest of us as the collective story spins out in directions none of us can predict.

Start at the beginning! READ HERE

And now for my part…again… enjoy!

…jolly. I hate the happiness, the laughter. Most of all…I hate elves!”

Princess Zyx, blinked and glanced down at her now elfin form. “Really. Is that so?” Brushing aside the blizzard of angry snowflakes assaulting her, she glared up at her father in disbelief and anger. “Burbleglax, I need you.”

The imp rushed forward, twitching anxiously.

The princess gestured to Claus. “Who is this man?”

With a startled blink, the imp stood taller and then regarded the raging man before them.  Sharp eyes took in everything from the length of whiskers to the precise shade of eye color. “He is Claus…and yet… he is not.”

She nodded once, sharply. “As I suspected.” Raising her ukulele, she dashed forward and bashed the startled man she called Daddy over the head. The man dropped like a bag full of year old shortbread cookies. Her ample bosom heaving, she smiled and dropped her now smashed instrument.

“Well done, princess. But… now what?”

“Hmm. A very good point.” Her hands went to her hips and she tapped her foot as she stared at her father. “First we’ll tie him up, and then we will find my one true love!”

The imp sighed and tore the strings off the ukulele to use as make-shift rope. The princess was ever so dramatic. Hopefully she’d marry someone soon and settle down.

***

The elf turned to the android as the Assembly General approached. “I never thought I’d wish to have a lawyer present…

Continue the story on J.M. Perkins site (link coming soon)

INTIMACY ISSUES (THE SAMANTHA SERIES) by Claudia Whitsitt

Please welcome Claudia Whitsitt, author of The Samantha Series. Book 2 in the suspenseful series was released April 8^th. Claudia and I met at Printers Row in Chicago almost three years ago. She has a knack for page turner mysteries and is a talented writer and friend! Claudia will be chatting about her recent release and The Samantha Series.

Claudia, if you had to describe your book in twenty-five words or less, what would you say?

Heartache, mystery, suspense, and love collide in INTIMACY ISSUES, Book 2, The Samantha Series.

I know that the heroine of your series, Samantha Stitsill, travels to Japan in this book. Did you travel to Japan to research?

As luck would have it, I traveled to Japan with my husband and daughter before I wrote INTIMACY ISSUES. During the time I visited Asia, I had no idea I would one day set a novel there, but I’m grateful that I captured prolific photos during my stay. Also, my husband’s many trips to Japan for business afforded me a personal research assistant. I believe I could have written the story without having visited, but I certainly made it easier for me to step into Samantha’s shoes having that prior knowledge.

If I remember correctly, it was the theft of your husband’s identity that spurred the writing of the series.

That’s right. Don’s passport was stolen twenty years ago. Not long after that, we received a threatening letter from Botswana, followed by disturbing late night phone calls. Ten years later, a strange woman showed up at my school. She thought I was married to her husband! The entire series of events was preposterous, yet I it provided me with such good material, I had to write the book. Thus, The Samantha Series was born.

Are there particular scenes that you have difficulty writing?

I struggle writing sex scenes. (Catholic school upbringing and being an elementary school teacher makes me tap the brakes!) I want to be sure to create the correct balance between enticing the reader and tugging on their heartstrings. For me, sex is about far more than the act; it’s about the emotion that both characters bring to the scene. I’ve always believed that the first brush of shoulders or the mere joining of hands can be incredibly provocative, even more so than a blow by blow description of the actual encounter.

What is your favorite part of writing a series?

Writing is one of the greatest joys of my life! I love stepping into Samantha’s shoes and living her life. She and I share much in common. Like me, she’s a schoolteacher and mother. But while we are similar in those regards, Samantha is spunkier and sassier than I’d ever dream of being. It’s thrilling for me to be so rooted in her life of adventure. I feel privileged that she allows me to accompany her on her life’s journey.

Samantha’s a real woman with real problems.  She’s tough, and faces adversity at every juncture of her life with grace and aplomb. It’s for this reason that I think Sam resonates with so many readers.

What’s your favorite reader response to The Samantha Series?

“And I can’t remember when I’ve enjoyed a book more. The author, without being presumptuous, spins a good tale that had me guessing the entire book. And I usually get bored with trying to solve the mystery, for I usually have it before the middle of the book. Some authors throw a kink into the mix late in the book and think that it adds to the mystery, but I find it deplorable. Ms. Whitsitt, much like the old “Nero Wolf” mysteries, puts it right up front, and she defies you, successfully, to solve the mystery. I find her writing style, her melding of characters, and plot twists, realistic and both terrifying and heartwarming. Not many authors for which I await the next offering, but I’m awaiting the next in this series with great anticipation.”

The reader had no way of knowing that this was what I had hoped to achieve, so this proved an extremely validating review.

Where is your favorite place to write?

I have a quiet study in my home, but I can write anywhere, anytime. If there’s sunlight streaming through the window, I’m that much happier.

Thanks for visiting, Claudia! I love your books and hope to see you soon.

Same here, Jen. I miss your smiles and your warm hugs!

About the author:

Claudia is a special education teacher and mother of five living in Michigan with her husband, Don. Her husband’s identity theft led her to the keyboard to write her first novel, IDENTITY ISSUES. As well as The Samantha Series, Claudia has written a coming of age mystery, The Wrong Guy, loosely based on The Michigan Murders of the late 1960s.

GIVEAWAY:

Two digital sets of Claudia Whitsitt’s thriller series, including Identity Issues and Intimacy Issues.

Enter now!

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/share-code/OGE0MTk3ZjZhNjczYTcwMjMzNjNjOTVjODE5OTkyOjA=/

BUY links:

IDENTITY ISSUES:

Amazon US- http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CAB2YU6

Amazon Canada- http://www.amazon.ca/Identity-Issues-Samantha-ebook/dp/B00AGLOJVY/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1366466963&sr=1-1&keywords=identity+issues+by+claudia+whitsitt

Amazon UK- http://www.amazon.co.uk/Identity-Issues-Samantha-ebook/dp/B00AGLOJVY/ref=sr_1_1_bnp_1_kin?ie=UTF8&qid=1366466453&sr=8-1&keywords=identity+issues+by+claudia+whitsitt

Nook- http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/identity-issues-claudia-whitsitt/1113865482?ean=2940016720784&itm=1&usri=identity+issues+by+claudia+whitsitt

INTIMACY ISSUES:

Amazon US – http://www.amazon.com/Intimacy-Issues-Samantha-ebook/dp/B00CAB2YU6/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1366467136&sr=1-1&keywords=intimacy+issues+by+claudia+whitsitt

Amazon Canada- http://www.amazon.ca/Intimacy-Issues-Samantha-ebook/dp/B00CAB2YU6/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1366467209&sr=1-1&keywords=intimacy+issues+by+claudia+whitsitt

Amazon UK – http://www.amazon.co.uk/Intimacy-Issues-Samantha-Series-ebook/dp/B00CAB2YU6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1366467266&sr=8-1&keywords=intimacy+issues+by+claudia+whitsitt

Nook – http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/intimacy-issues-claudia-whitsitt/1115125575?ean=2940016693064

In a nutshell, the “Tell A Story Day” blog chain tale will kick off on April 15th and run to the 26th. The first post will be the morning of Monday the 15th. After that, each writer will post the next section of the story and a link to the next writer’s website or blog. We’ll be adding to the story a couple times a day for twelve days straight.

Join us on this chaotic, messy, and epic journey, learn about some new authors you might not otherwise hear about, and most of all, giggle along with the rest of us as the collective story spins out in directions none of us can predict.

Start at the beginning! READ HERE

And now for my part…. enjoy!

“Alive you say?” The lawyer stared at the engraving of Princess Zyx the android held up, clearly dumbfounded. The beautiful face looked up and smiled at him before sticking its tongue out. “But the Princess has been murdered.”

“No body was ever found. Her death was merely reported by witnesses.” The android looked at the portrait once more and gave it a shake. The princess bounced off the edges until he stopped and then glared at him furiously. “Curious.” He ran through his systems, searching for information on people being trapped, stored, or otherwise confined to engravings or portraits.

“The last to see her being Mrs. Snulgrithn, or Snolthrign Giatztarg  as the case may be. The elf named her liar.”

“Yet this engraving was found in the elf’s possession,” the android pointed out, lights flicking wildly over its metal body as it formulated various scenarios.

“Our simple summons has become not so simple,” the lawyer muttered. Being a lawyer, this didn’t surprise him. Nothing in life was ever simple, and if it was… lawyers could make it complicated more quickly than a troll could bash your head in. He turned back to the security droid, who continued to attempt to subdue the troll entwined in its mechanical tentacles. As he watched, the troll jerked a massive arm free and proceeded to do just that…smashing the droid’s head deep into its metal body. The resulting electric shock lit the troll up like an overdecorated Christmas tree.

Both lawyer and android took a step back as fur fried and sparks flew. The troll, tough beast that it was, roared and struggled to free its massive hand.

“I suggest, considering the new information we have just discovered, that we leave the troll for now and focus instead on retrieving the elf,” the lawyer said, brushing a spark off his suit. “The murder case has possibly just become something much more serious.”

“Agreed.” The android beeped suddenly. “File 1746C. Efernact Spell Journal of 1232. Page 438.”

The lawyer sidestepped the smoking troll and marched quickly through the foundry in pursuit of the elf. “What of it?”

“The spell used on the princess, I believe. The blackest of black magic.”

The android stopped suddenly behind him and the lawyer turned. “Is that so?” The lawyer tensed, hand moving slowly toward the portfolio.

“According to the journal, this spell can not be cast by an elf.” Beeping again, warning lights flashed on and off. “It can only be cast… by a lawyer.”

Next installment over at J. M. Perkins site! Link coming soon!

In case you hadn’t heard, I’ve finished writing the next book in The Broken Ones. Book two, Broken Prince, will be out June 1st! Because I wanted to be able to have covers that worked together, Broken Aro now has a new look! I’m super happy with it and hope it will catch readers eyes too.

Book Description

Feudlings by Wendy Knight

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I bought this book, which is saying a lot right there. I don’t buy a lot of books these days. However, a great friend on facebook recommended this one and the cover and blurb immediately caught my eye.

I sat down in the evening planning on reading a few pages before bed…and didn’t stop. Yes, it’s one of THOSE books.

There isn’t anything I didn’t like about it. The characters are all well defined and unique, and likable. Ari and Shane had a growing relationship.. not a OMGyouaremysoulmateandIloveyouevenifIjustmetyou love. Awesome battle scenes, strong female lead, wonderful supporting characters, great plot and story. Overall a very engaging and fun read.

My only problem is that it ended and there are more books in the series. I rather want to timewarp ahead to the future so I can read them now!

Go give it a try. 2.99 at Amazon

View all my reviews

March Madness at Untold Press

Enter to win free eBooks!

Winners get to choose what Untold Press title they would like.

Contest ends April 1 2013

You can win any of my Untold Press titles! Woot!

CLICK here to be taken to the page where you can easily enter thru Rafflecopter

Also, don’t forget to enter to win a print copy + swag of Broken Aro on Goodreads! CLICK HERE!

Flashy Fiction and Other Insane Tales volumes 1 and 2 are now available in a bundle! Not only do you get both books together, you save 25% too!

Flashy Fiction and Other Insane Tales (Bundle Vol 1 & 2) 

by Jen Wylie and Sean Hayden

Anthology Bundle

Published March 17 2013

Price: 2.99 (save 25%)

Available at [Amazon]

IT’S THE BEST OF BOTH BOOKS!
Okay, technically it’s just BOTH BOOKS in ONE seriously funny and scary easy to read, purchase only once, compendium of the deranged! And you save almost a WHOLE DOLLAR! Do we rock or do we rock?

An anthology of the strange, bizarre, and just plain weird.

Zombies, vampires, ghosts, and …crickets? Try a taste of writing from two very different fantasy authors. Flash stories are super short and perfect for when you ‘just have a minute’. This anthology contains 15 stories from authors Sean Hayden and Jen Wylie. Run the rampart of emotions in this exciting mix of tales. From humor to twisted, there is something for everyone.

Unicorns, zombies, devils, dark whispers, teddy bears, and …fireflies? Try a taste of writing from two very different fantasy authors. Flash fiction stories are super short and perfect for when you ‘just have a minute’. This anthology contains 15 stories (both flash and longer short stories) from authors Sean Hayden and Jen Wylie. Run the rampart of emotions in this exciting mix of tales. From humor to horror, sweet to twisted, there is something for everyone.
~*~

Note: Some stories contain adult language.

STONE COLD

In the competitive world of advertising, Charles Dean is at the top of his game; a ruthless boss driven by results. When a scandal threatens his prestigious advertising company, Dean is determined to find the person trying to ruin him and handle it his way.

Someone else has other ideas and their own reasons for bringing him down.

Then the murders of two senior corporate executives stun the Oxfordshire community and the dirty secret Dean has kept hidden for years is about to be exposed.

Set in the beautiful English Cotswolds, STONE COLD is a brand new psychological thriller, available now for Kindle. Also available in paperback.

Buy now on Amazon

Jenny Hilborne
Author of mysteries and thrillers 

Book summary:

Set against the backdrop of the Battle of Actium, in the city of Alexandria, Star struggles with her guardian duties as her feelings for the newly named pharaoh of Egypt grow deeper. Not only is Caesarian her duty, he’s the son of Cleopatra, and he’s human. All of which makes their love forbidden.

But when a conspiracy linked to Caesar creeps its way into Alexandria, Star must choose between helping her fellow Kythan free themselves of their servitude, and protecting her charge—the last pharaoh—while Egypt burns around her.

YA-Mature: sexual content, drinking, drugs, violence, death, and other mature content intended for readers 17 and older.

Cover design: Stephanie Mooney

Publication: March

Author website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

I’m super excited that Flashy 2 is now in print!! Woot woot!  Of the two Flashys, I have to admit this one is my favorite.

Flashy Fiction and Other Insane Tales 2 by Jen Wylie and Sean Hayden

Anthology Published Oct 13 2012

Ebook Price: 1.99 Available at [Amazon]

NOW Available in Print for 7.99 at [Amazon][Createspace]

Another anthology of the strange, bizarre, and just plain weird.

Unicorns, zombies, devils, dark whispers, teddy bears, and …fireflies? Try a taste of writing from two very different fantasy authors. Flash fiction stories are super short and perfect for when you ‘just have a minute’. This anthology contains 15 stories (both flash and longer short stories) from authors Sean Hayden and Jen Wylie. Run the rampart of emotions in this exciting mix of tales. From humor to horror, sweet to twisted, there is something for everyone.

I have the awesome authors of Witch Hunt: Of the Blood on my site today. I asked them all the same question, I hope you enjoy their responses! Now don’t forget to go and check out this wonderful mix of stories!

Dragonthology Release Tour Jan 3rd-10th

See more stops HERE

Dragonthology Edited by Untold Press

Anthology

Published Jan 1 2013

Price: 3.99 Available at [Amazon]

Enter the pages of the Dragonthology. No single story has ever been great enough to contain the mystical, wondrous creature known as the dragon. We assembled the greatest draconian tales and put them between the covers of a single tome to satisfy your hunger for everything dragon. Seven magnificent stories, ranging from science fiction to mystery, await you within.

The Case of the Bloodstone Dragon by G.L. Jackson

A washed up has been, Private Investigator Clark is down to his last $100. That is, until the night a mysterious femme fatale walks through his door weaving a tale of intrigue in hope of recovering an artifact steeped in mystery and danger. What follows is a raucous ride through a little known human and dragon history, played out on the streets of New York City.

Unto the Breach by Jason Andrew

Jonathan Heller uncovers an unusual secret during one of the bloodiest campaigns of World War One in the middle of horrific trench warfare.  Can he convince an ancient dragon that humanity is worthy of life during their darkest hour?

The Dragon of Sullivan Hall by Marian Allen

A dormitory full of fun loving female students, an angry red dragon with a litter full of hungry whelps, and a particular student of Irish descent. This won’t end well for the dragon.

Egg Hunt by Jay Wilburn

A lonely smuggler must make decisions he never dreamt possible in the darkness of space to elude capture and protect his precious cargo of dragon eggs. When one of them hatches, it threatens to damage his ship. Can a person change enough to save a ship, a dragon, and himself?

The Clan by Troy Lambert

Dragons return to the earth and humanity enslaves them with the last remnants of technology of their dying race. Now the technology of old is fading. Will the dragons be able to rise again? Will the humans declare war, or will a peaceful solution be found? It all rests in the hands of an ancient dragon, and a lowly shepherd and his clan.

Dragon Seeks a Wife by Sandra Graves

What happens when a dragon falls ill and is told he will die in a year and a day unless he finds his one true love? The only thing a dragon can do. He sets out on a quest to win the hand of the perfect mate for a dragon–the daughter of the king. Aided by a Quetzal bird sorcerer, he begins his quest. An old fashioned fairy tale with a Meso-American twist.

Darkness Taken by J.A. Campbell

In a land where children are warriors and the only adults are mythical creatures, all are called to fight the Darkness. Til and her dragon partner, Heliodor, complete the perfect Welcome Ceremony, but their joy is short lived. The Dark has slain a unicorn and taken her foal back to the Darklands. Can Til and Heliodor venture where none go and rescue the young unicorn?

Available at [Amazon]

Enter to win a 25$ Amazon Gift Card–>  Click here!

Please spread the word!

Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays

and Happy New Year!

Happy Holidays! Fill up your kindle! To celebrate the holidays Broken Aro is only 0.99 on Amazon!http://www.amazon.com/Broken-Aro-The-Ones-ebook/dp/B009B37VQS

Don’t miss out on Untold Press’s free shorts either! The Games We Play by Sean Haydenhttp://www.amazon.com/The-Games-We-Play-ebook/dp/B007B5X7BG and Ring Around the Rosie by Jen Wyliehttp://www.amazon.com/Ring-Around-the-Rosie-ebook/dp/B007CATOYO

Happy reading!

~hugs and rainbows~

Jen

Thank you all for joining me in celebrating the book release of my second young adult urban fantasy, Summer Break Blues. This is the sequel to Senior Year Bites and picks up a few months after it left off with Meg’s graduation from high school.

We talked to Meg on the last blog. I thought today we could catch up with her two best friends, Steph and Ann.

Steph, we’ll start with you. Describe yourself.

Steph: I’m athletic, fun, um, I hunt supernatural creatures. I’m going to college soon.

Favorite color?

Steph: Blue, like Meg and Ann.

Food?

Steph: Hot chocolate.

Ann: That is not food.

Steph: It should be.

What’s it like having Meg as a best friend?

Steph: It’s great! We don’t have to be afraid of going out after dark, like, ever again.

Have you ever been in love?

Steph: Gary is Amazing!

Okay, Ann, describe yourself.

Ann: I love to swim, sunbathe, lounge and hang out with friends.

Favorite color?

Ann: I think I’m supposed to say Blue, but it’s really violet.

Favorite food?

Ann: Salmon.

Ever been in love?

Ann: I thought so, but it must not be because I think Meg is trying to steal my boyfriend, and I do not think he minds.

And on that note, what’s it like to have Meg as a friend?

Ann: Creepy

Blurb:

Meg managed to survive her senior year of high school as a vampire, and now she’s looking forward to a relaxing summer with her friends before trying to tackle college. Unfortunately, some unfinished business from the previous year rears its ugly head and Meg is forced to deal with the Sidhe who are distinctly unhappy that she killed one of their kind last winter. Then Ann’s parents vanish while they are on their annual summer vacation in Maine and it’s up to Meg and the rest of the gang to come to the rescue. Though she is still trying to figure out who, and what she has become, Meg and her friends feel they are up to the challenge. That is until things really start to fall apart.

You can find Summer Break Blues here:

Bono Books
Amazon
Amazon UK
Barnes and Noble 
Smashwords 
Omnilit 

GIVEWAY!

And now for the good part. Decadent Publishing and I are giving away several books on this tour. You could win your choice of any Decadent/Bono Books ebook including Summer Break Blues, or Senior Year Bites. All you have to do for a chance to win is leave an email address and what format you’d like your book in. (PDF, Kindle or Nook). I will contact the winner to find out what book you’d like. I need this info so I can pass it on to my publisher so they can send you your book and to notify you that you won.

Cupid has been a very naughty boy. The Cupid’s Conquest series is a multi-author series started with Gunshy by Seleste Delaney and the latest offering is Irish Kisses by Ella Grey.

Irish Kisses

The thing with love is it’s all about finding that happy ending. Sometimes it isn’t that simple. People have a habit of making it complicated.

Eros can’t be everywhere at once so for this particular match-up he’s got some old fashion help. Serendipity is the muse of happy endings and her brand of help raises questions that fate might be planning in the hand of the blossoming relationship between Abigail Smith and Seth O’Connor.

Abigail Smith is having a particularly bad week.

Abby’s best friend and fellow lawyer Dawn Philips has been murdered and while Abby wants to bring down the man behind her death. Her bosses decide that she’s too personally connected. She’s told to take some time off and let someone else handle the case. The thing is, the case is falling apart and Abby just can’t let it go. A mysterious private eye pays her a visit and suddenly Abby finds herself on a plane to Ireland.

There she meets Seth O’Conner.

Seth is on holiday, travelling to Ireland to see the place where he grew up. He expected to drink too much Guinness and have some much needed fun. He didn’t expect Abigail Smith, the beautiful redhead and the blistering hot encounter they share in the aeroplane bathroom. She’s got secrets and it takes a brutal attack for Seth to learn them.

Now he has no intention of leaving her side.

Biography

Ella Grey is a full-time writer, with a little monster, a big monster and a cat who might actually be Satan.

The first instalment of the Molly O’Brien novella series was released in 2010. It was quickly followed by the Rachel Valentine eshort series, aimed at young adults. The Red Dress, her first attempt at adult fiction was released by Evernight Publishing as part of their Just Vamps anthology.

She thrives on new challenges and can’t wait to sink her teeth into a new story or a new genre. She can usually be found in front of her netbook with her earplugs in. Bother her at your own peril. You’ve been warned.

For more information about latest releases or a glimpse into the mind of a writer with a full plate, Ella can be found here.

http://www.ellagrey.wordpress.com

Excerpt

“Are you okay?”

She looked up and into the green eyes of the guy who’d checked her out earlier. He actually looked concerned, and it left her wondering what she must look like. “No,” she said bluntly. “If God wanted us to fly he’d have given us a pair of nifty wings.”

He laughed as he sat down next to her. “Then why did you choose to fly?”

“Maybe it’s because I’m lacking anything close to common sense.” She closed her eyes and rested her head on the chair in front of her. She heard a stewardess asking if she was alright, and the guy mumbled something to her.

“It’s okay. I’ll keep an eye on her.” Abby heard something that sounded like a wallet opening. “I’m a cop, so she’ll be okay with me.” A slight pressure on her lower back caused her to look up. “Do you want a drink?”

She nodded. “Anything alcoholic would be great, thanks.” Alcohol would help numb her senses a little.

As the stewardess left, she realised the cop was still rubbing her back. It felt nice. If she focused on those small round movements, it took her focus away from the motion sickness. “I’m Abby.”

“Excuse me?”

“Well, since you’re touching me I thought we should at least exchange names.” She smiled to show she was kidding.  He removed his hand and Abby felt a swell of panic as the sickness came back suddenly. “Please, don’t stop. It is actually helping.”

He put his hand back and Abby looked down at the ground again.

“I’m Seth.”

“So you’re really a cop?”

He chuckled and it was the most dangerous sound Abby had ever heard, it made her heart pick up its steady pace and the dark place between her legs wet. “That’s want the badge usually means.”

She smiled, even knowing he couldn’t see it. She heard the stewardess come back with their drinks, and she slowly got up. Seth handed her one of the bottle of beer. “I’m sorry I don’t think they have anything else, unless you want water?”

“No this is perfect, thanks.” She brought the bottle to her lips and took a slow drag from it. “I’m sorry for ruining your flight.”

“Not at all, I came over here to talk to you anyway.”

His bluntness took her breath away, “Really, why?”

He took a quick drink and Abby watched as his tongue flicked out to catch a bead of liquid at the top of the bottle. “Just curious, are you visiting family?” He asked, quickly changing the subject.

She shook her head. “I’m visiting for work.”

“What do you do?”

“I’m a lawyer, but I’m doing a little freelance work at the moment.” While it wasn’t a complete lie, she didn’t want to go into any gory details. She didn’t want him to get that look of sympathy that everyone at her office seemed permanently fixed on their faces. “I’m going to Dublin. I’m looking for someone.”

Abby took another pull from the bottle. It felt good to be able to talk to somebody. For one it took her mind off her travel sickness, and since she found it hard to drag her eyes away from him, it was an added bonus. Now if she could just stop thinking how it felt to have his hand on her, it would be perfect.

You can find Irish Kisses and the other awesome stories in this series at http://www.evernightpublishing.com/cupids-conquests/

Whatever could I be talking about?

Perhaps my newest release with Sean Hayden … Flashy Fiction and Other Insane Tales Vol 2.

Not only does it have the coolest cover ever (The other side of the faced used in Flashy 1) but the stories are more intense, more twisted, more… everything.

This volume also includes my very first psychological horror. Are you ready for that?

Excerpt:

Whisperings by Jen Wylie

They come in the night. These wild things. Whisperings in my mind.

They disturb my sleep, make me restless. I wish they would disappear. They don’t. They have in fact, been growing stronger. I can’t remember when they first started, little tendrils in my dreams. Several nights ago, maybe more. I can’t think…I can’t remember…

Tonight they are worse; growing bold, taunting me in the darkness. Restless, I toss and turn as if fevered. I’m not sick, I know I’m not. This isn’t normal. They don’t feel like dreams. If I open my eyes they’re still there, dark shadows slowly invading my mind.

“Sleep,” they whisper.

Always the whispers. I hate them. They tickle almost beyond my hearing. Nearly silent voices murmuring words in menacing tones. I find myself straining to listen, forcing myself to stop and then trying all over again. It is a vicious cycle I can’t seem to stop. Perhaps that is their goal.

I’m so tired it hurts. I want to sleep so badly yet I find myself denying it to listen to the whispers. I need to sleep. I must force myself to ignore them. Though they whisper for me to do so, what they want is not the same. They aren’t asking me to sleep like I so wish to. To fall into the deep slumber which leaves you healed and rested and ready to face a new day. The whispers are too wicked. Too laced with dark intent. The sleep they ask for is the eternal kind.

Somehow they read my thoughts, sending shivers of terror streaking down my spine.

“Sleeeep,” the whisperings agree. “Just…let go.”

I’m not ready for death. I’m too full of youth and life and want to live. I want to wake up. Or am I already awake?

The whisperings don’t like such thoughts. Their mad mutterings increase, trying to drown out my treasonous thoughts. How many voices are there? I can’t even count them they are so intertwined. They slip together and away, delving into my thoughts and seeking out every corner of my mind. There is no escaping them…no escape…

A whispered growl erupts through my mind.

* * *

Don’t you want to read more? Of course you do… if you think you can handle it…

Available for only 1.99 at:

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Flashy-Fiction-Other-Insane-ebook/dp/B009Q78TTM

Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Flashy-Fiction-Other-Insane-ebook/dp/B009Q78TTM

Prime members borrow for free!

Another anthology of the strange, bizarre, and just plain weird.

Unicorns, zombies, devils, dark whispers, teddy bears, and …fireflies? Try a taste of writing from two very different fantasy authors. Flash fiction stories are super short and perfect for when you ‘just have a minute’. This anthology contains 15 stories (both flash and longer short stories) from authors Sean Hayden and Jen Wylie. Run the rampart of emotions in this exciting mix of tales. From humor to horror, sweet to twisted, there is something for everyone.

The Story of IDENTITY ISSUES

          Hi! My name is Claudia Whitsitt! I’d like to tell you about my latest mystery, Identity Issues. Thanks for reading!

It wasn’t until the threatening letter arrived (from Botswana) that I became a bit concerned about the theft of my husband’s passport some years previous. The letter, clearly meant for someone else, was disturbing. But in all his business travels, Don had never been to Botswana, nor did he have associates there. We blew it off. Then came the late night wrong numbers (also from Botswana) demanding my husband’s contact information. My interest peaked, but there weren’t enough dots to connect. The caller sought a man by the same name, a man not my husband. I never succeeded in convincing the persistent caller of his mistake and merely tolerated in his bi-annual calls. They became nothing more than an irritating interruption of my much-needed sleep.

After the calls faded, a parent who shared my surname visited me at Parent-Teacher conferences. Who’s named Whitsitt? C’mon, really! She claimed her husband shared the same first and middle name as my husband, along with a matching birth date and countless other similarities. This identity theft had come back to haunt us. FOR REAL. Right in our own backyard. That short twenty minute conference with the other Mrs. Whitsitt, who wound up making startling accusations, marked the conception of Identity Issues.

That disquieting meeting would have been enough to spark my writing of the book, but more puzzle pieces fell into my lap. Too many questions with too few answers and a simple schoolteacher from Michigan re-invents herself as an author of suspense.

I’ve always loved writing and even attempted to write an entire book when at the age of ten. But I found myself compelled to write this story in a way I’d never experienced before. It wouldn’t leave me alone. So, in September of 2006, I fired up my laptop and put fingers to the keyboard. To my surprise, the book poured out of me. Since the initial parts of the story were true, it seemed easy to recount the details. And I LOVED WRITING! In the process, I researched. Both the true elements of the story, to verify the facts, and the fiction portion, to add credibility. I wonder how many readers will be able to tell when the true story drifts into fiction. Can you?

Identity Issues is available exclusively at Amazon.com. Click here!

Hey my peeps! While you’re running around crazy this time of year, don’t forget to get some reading in too! Check out this new novella (10k) from my dear Sean Hayden. It’s only .99 so you can still afford buying those xmas presents! Get yourself a little something!

The Ghost of Christmas Last by Sean Hayden

Throughout history, those who don’t keep the spirit of Christmas in their hearts were often visited by three ghosts. These wise spirits showed these souls what the true meaning of Christmas was all about.

Those were the souls worth saving.

Those who weren’t worth saving were only visited by one spirit and it wasn’t for educational purposes…

ONLY 0.99 Available at [Amazon][Smashwords]

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Blurb: TOUCHING ETERNITY
What would you choose?
She had everything but freedom.
He had nothing but his loyalty, his wits and his training.
She was a prisoner, a disease, not fit for the world, and she didn’t know why. But she did know she wasn’t allowed to die, she wasn’t allowed to live and she wasn’t sane.
He was a soldier, a protector, but his foundation will be tested when he must destroy the only light in his dark world.
Thrown together, prisoner and keeper, their rebellion will splinter through time, changing the course of history and the fate of the world. Their love will challenge their greatest enemy and immortalize them forever.
Loyalty. Freedom. Love.
What would you risk?
“Let me die.”
Pain darkened his eyes. “Never.”

Book Name: Touching Eternity (Touch Series Standalone, book 1.5)
Author: Airicka Phoenix
Publisher: Self-Published
Release date: December 25, 2012
Genre: Adult Paranormal Romance Drama (18+)
Warnings: Angst, drama, torture, suicide, abuse (mental, emotional, physical, sexual, substance (unwilling)) all are implied, not graphic.
Formats: ebook, paperback
Other Novels:
~ Touching Smoke (Touch Series, book 1)
~ Whispered Beginnings: A Clever Fiction Anthology
~ Midnight Surrender Anthology
Book Trailer: Touching Eternity Trailer
Social Networks:
~ Facebook
~ Facebook Author Page
~ Twitter (@AirickaPhoenix)
~ Goodreads
Author Site: Airicka Phoenix Website

Buying Locations: Links to come December 25, 2012

Author Bio:

Airicka Phoenix is the author of TOUCHING SMOKE (Touch Book #1), TOUCHING ETERNITY (Touch 1.5), TORRID, a short story as part of the Whispered Beginnings: A Clever Fiction Anthology and WANTING & INTENTIONS, two stories as part of the Midnight Surrender Anthology. When she’s not hammering away at the keyboard, she can be found banishing pirates or crawling through the attic looking for lost treasure with her kids. She loves baking, gardening and reading. She also likes to travel and take pictures of everything she comes across. When asked, Airicka describes herself as a sarcastic basket case that has an unhealthy addiction to chocolate, old movies and really bad jokes. She loves to laugh, make friends and write. If she could have one wish granted, it would be to spend one day as a fly-on-the-wall inside Stephen King’s mind. If she could have two wishes granted, she would ask for a castle dedicated entirely to her overwhelming collection of books.
Website: http://airickaphoenix.com/Author/?cat=10
Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/AirickaPhoenix (@AirickaPhoenix)
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/airicka.phoenix
Facebook Author Page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Airicka-Phoenix/252135634831614?ref=hl
Goodread: http://www.goodreads.com/AirickaPhoenix

Merry Christmas everyone!

Today I have author Laura Hunter on my blog for her book tour. I met Laura on facebook some time ago, she is an amazing and wonderful woman! Please enjoy this interview and be sure to check out her new release! It is available at Amazon ,
Barnes and Noble (paperback only at this point- if you want a nook copy please click on “request from publisher” and
Kobo

1. Can you tell us a little about yourself?

I’m 24 years old and I live on the central coast of NSW, Australia with my family. I enjoy writing, reading, acting, singing and directing. With my dramatic arts class I have written, directed, and starred in two original plays.

2. When did you first start writing and when did you finish your first book?

I first began writing when I was 15. I wrote a lot of song lyrics as a way to get my thoughts down on paper. I then switched to writing fan-fiction at the age of 19. I finished my first book about September this year.

3. How did you choose the genre you write in?

I have always loved reading the paranormal/ urban fantasy/ YA fantasy fiction genres, so its only natural I began writing this genre, it chose me lol

4. Where do you get your ideas?

I get my ideas from anything I experience and my friends and family, but mostly  my ideas come from dreams.

5. Do you ever experience writer’s block?

Yes, I am currently having a little bit of writer’s block at the moment, mostly due to not plotting properly so I need to go and do that for my next few books.

6. Is there any particular author or book that influenced you in any way either growing up or as an adult?

As a teenager I remember walking into my school library and searching through the YA books. I picked up Phillip Pullman’s The Subtle Knife and my love affair with YA fantasy fiction began. Cassandra Clare and Kathy Reichs also inspire me every day.

7. Can you tell us the challenges in getting your first book published?

The first real issue for me was money. As I am not particularly rich and a self published author, I found investing my own money into my first book quite taxing, so I hope it will be worth it in the end. Everything else has been a breeze.

8. How do you market your work? What avenues have you found work best for your genre?

As a self published indie author I feel marketing is the biggest challenge for us, but I have found social media is the biggest help in creating a platform and reaching my target audience- Facebook, twitter and blogs (I have read several eBooks on the topic and they said this was the best way) Also I am addicted to goodreads! I recommend that every author get a Goodreads account as you can add the books you want to read to shelves and keep up to date with upcoming releases and have people rate and review your work.

9. Can you tell us about your upcoming book?

The Chronicles of Fire and Ice is a New Adult urban fantasy set in Melbourne, Australia. It deals with the fact the human race is becoming over taken and out- bred by angels. It features Scarlett, a 21-year-old half Nephilim girl who finds out she is also half archangel and she has a frightening new ability to go along with it. She enrolls at an Academy for angels where she meets the handsome, yet mysterious Dyston Blackbell, the youngest son of the owners of the Academy, whom she discovers has been sending her weird dreams for years. Some of the story also deals with the backstory of Dyston’s dashing yet egotistic older brother, Lakyn.

10. Is anything in your book based on real life experiences or purely all imagination?

Some things in my book are from real life experiences, like some of Scarlett’s dreams, they actually happened to me. Some of my characters are based on my friends, certain qualities. Most of the fantasy parts are all from my imagination.

11. What was your favorite chapter (or part) to write and why?

One of my favorite scenes that I loved writing was when Scarlett first met Dyston. I also loved writing Lakyn’s backstory. He is one of my favorite characters to write as he has two sides.

12. How did you come up with the title?

I came up with the title, The Chronicles of Fire and Ice a few ways. I wanted something catchy and unique (aspiring authors, I recommend googling possible titles to see if there are any similar already out there, or doing a goodreads search) and also I played around with the elements of my story and tried to fit them into the title. Some might say fire relates to Scarlett, and ice to Lakyn, yes they do, but the meanings run deeper than that.

13. What has been the toughest criticism given to you as an author? What has been the best compliment?

Probably the toughest and most offending compliment given to me was criticizing my marketing plan, saying social media isn’t good enough. They are not authors so I didn’t really listen. As for the best compliment… I get more beautiful messages and compliments about my book every day and it almost brings me to tears, it means a lot to me.

14. Do you have any advice to give to aspiring writers?

Yes, believe in yourself and believe in your work. If you think negative thoughts then that will be reflected in your work and it will suffer.

FUN QUESTIONS

1)    If you were a superhero (or villain!) what would your power be? Would you wear a cape?

I love superheroes! I think I would like to the ability to heal. And no cape for me.

2)   Chocolate, Strawberry or Vanilla?

Chocolate all the way. I am a self- confessed chocoholic!

3)   The light side or the dark side?

I love all things dark but I live on the light side

4)   Do you have deep dark secret? How about a shallow grey one?

Hmm had to think about this one… I have a crush on someone I shouldn’t.

5)   What sort of coffee would you order? Simple coffee, complicated soy-non-fat-extra-espresso-half-caff-nightmare?

My poison is a soy latte. And sometimes if I’m feeling like a sugar hit, I order a soy hazelnut latte.

6)   Have you ever given someone who asked for decaf, regular coffee just to see what would happen?

No because you can taste the difference. But I have given someone full cream milk when they have asked for skim.

7)   Is there any food you refuse to eat? (Other than brussel sprouts because NO ONE likes them)

Bananas!

8)   If you could live off of chocolate would you? What kind?

Totally! Chocoholic here! Dairy milk or the dark and nutty kind would suffice.

9)   What do you think the coolest pet to have would be?

I have always wanted a pet Panda.

10)If you could visit any world (real or imagined) where would you go?

Hmm, The House of Night school, or Narnia (before and after the white witch’s rein)

11) What kind of person drives you nuts? (personality trait)

Loud, obnoxious people, and smokers.

12) Have you ever gone out in public with your shirt on backwards, or your slippers on, and when realizing it, just said screw it?

All the time. And I’ve had to leave it until I could find a bathroom to fix it lol

13) Do you prefer fuzzy or tub socks?

Fuzzy but then my shoes don’t fit lol

14) Are you a person who makes their bed in the morning, or do you not see much point?

No point because it’s a known fact that bed bugs love made beds.

15) Be honest, how often do you wash your hair?

Once a week, I have the worst frizz prone hair

16) Do you get road rage? What pisses you off the most about other drivers?

I don’t drive but I hate slow drivers and tail gaters

17) Do you go out of your way to kill bugs? Are there any that make you screech and hide?

Cockroaches, spiders and flies. I have a phobia of bees and wasps.

Stalk me the following ways:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/LL-Hunter/110104129132865

Blog: http://llhunter.blogspot.com.au

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/llhunter_angels

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6559537.L_L_Hunter

Author Bio:

I am an Australian author who began writing when I was fifteen or sixteen, originally song lyrics, but then moved onto fanfiction when I was nineteen. Having published over 20 stories online. One of which was nominated for an award. I have also written, directed and starred in two original plays entitled, “No Frills Airlines: Flight 123,” and the sequel, “No frills Airlines: Come Fly with Us.” The latter of which was a musical.