Author Interview : The Cowboy and the Vampire: Rough Trails and Shallow Graves by Clark Hays and Kathleen McFall

Little Blurb about yourself:


1. Who or what inspired you to become a writer?

It must have been something both our mother’s ate while we were in the womb because each one of us came out spewing words. Clark cut his teeth on cowboy poetry, inspired by the majestic and seemingly endless mountain ranges surrounding him during his Montana cattle ranch childhood. Kathleen, on the other hand, turned her words toward the microscopic and found post-womb inspiration in geology. Although, now in hindsight, we can say we were both inspired by the natural landscape, especially the American west. This reverence plays out in a big way in the setting of The Cowboy and the Vampire Collection.

2. How long did it take you to write (title of book you're promoting)?

It took us about a year to write The Cowboy and the Vampire: Rough Trails and Shallow Graves. We’re getting better. We published book one — The Cowboy and the Vampire: A Very Unusual Romance — in 1999 and it was more than a decade before we finished book two, The Cowboy and the Vampire: Blood and Whiskey. We’re epic procrastinators. We could probably write faster, but it takes a surprising amount of time for a married couple writing together to argue about plot, character and commas. Well, the arguing is only half of it; it takes time to make up too (the fun part). In the end, however, we think the fussing about the writing makes the book considerably stronger.

3. While writing how many times do you go back and rewrite a plot?

The plot itself stay relatively constant. But we rewrite individual scenes dozens of times. However, by this time, in book three, the characters are well-established and they often write their own scenes, in a way, oddly. It’s clear how they will behave and so it becomes easier to write their actions and words.

4. You run into a bookstore, where do you go first?

Clark makes a beeline for the latest graphic novels and then heads for non-fiction, often history-based. Kathleen peruses the new literary fiction releases and then ambles toward the science shelf.

5. How many books in a month do you tend to read?

On average, we each probably read three books a month.

6. In all the books you've read. Who is your most favorite character and why?

That’s tough and changes daily! For Kathleen, today, it’s detective Jack Daniels in the series by J.A. Konrath. For Clark, it’s Corporal Louis Barthas, a World War One trench soldier whose journals were recently rediscovered and translated into English in a book called Poilu.

7. State 5 random facts about yourself.

Clark: Loves clouds; is a discriminating whiskey aficionado; hates the sounds that flip flops make; once accidentally shot himself in the leg and bled all over his sky-blue tuxedo on the way to the prom; collects antique knives.

Kathleen: Loves rocks; hates the Muppets; can’t understand people who speak with British accents; has musical anhedonia; wears only black (occasionally gray).

8. Your favorite Genre?

Western Gothic, of course!

9. What are you currently reading?

Kathleen has just started The Jack Daniels series by J.A. Konrath after finishing Ignorance: How it Drives Science by Stuart Firestein (kind of a literary whiplash there!)

Clark is working through The Antidote: Happiness for People Who Can’t Stand Positive Thinking by Oliver Burkeman (yes, it’s helping).

10. What is the best book you've read?

For Kathleen, it’s Anna Karenina by Tolstoy; For Clark, its Guns, Germs and Steel by Jared Diamond. There’s an unexpected connection there. Check out Jared Diamond to discover it.

11. Any new projects coming up?

Yes! We are working on book four of The Cowboy and Vampire Collection. We’ve promised our readers that we will quickly resolve the “issue” that occurs between Tucker and Lizzie at the end of book three. Right now, we are naming a new evil character. Any ideas for evil sounding names?

Here’s your chance to market your book. Describe it. And why readers should pick it up?

The Cowboy and the Vampire Collection is a beautiful, dark love story, like life itself. And, we’re told, all of the books will make you laugh out loud!

Where you can find Clark and Kathleen:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/cowboyandvampire

Twitter: @cowboyvamp

Goodreads: Clark Hays or Kathleen McFall

Website: www.cowboyandvampire.com

Instagram: @cowboyvampire




Rough Trails and Shallow Graves
The Cowboy and the Vampire Collection
Book Three
Clark Hays and Kathleen McFall

Genre: Paranormal Romance/Western Romance

Publisher: Pumpjack Press

Date of Publication: May 5, 2014

ISBN: 978-0-9838200-4-8

Number of pages: 358
Word Count: 82,900

Cover Artist: Aaron Perkins

Book Description:

Say goodbye to LonePine, Wyoming, a typical small town in the American west with typical small town problems — romantic intrigues, warm beer and vampires.

When Lizzie goes missing on their wedding night, Tucker is forced to team up with his bloodthirsty Russian nemesis to find answers. Crashing through cowboy country, the vampire spirit world and wrecked salmon canneries, they confront an evil more ancient than even the undead — human greed — twisting science into something terrible.

Can there be a happily-ever-after for a cowboy and vampire, or is their unusual love just a delusion? Time to cowboy up.

This is the third book in The Cowboy and the Vampire Collection.

Available at Amazon



Reviews of the first two books….

Introducing racial issues isn’t the only adjustment the authors have made to the vampire mythos, but it’s more than just the details that set this series apart. Rather, it’s the way the authors utilize those details to create meaningful conflicts and world-altering choices for the characters...the book is first and foremost a thriller, upping the ante in every chapter as bullets fly and relationships strain under the weight of old loyalties and new revelations…with strong writing, funny characters (no irony is lost on one vampiress who takes to sporting a “Future Farmers of America” jacket) and plenty of action, it’s hard to fault the authors for keeping the focus on a story this riveting. ~ Kirkus Reviews

As a vampire novel, The Cowboy and the Vampire is sure to satisfy Dracula fans’ expectations. However, this book has a little something extra to offer readers. A little something that harkens back to the days when man fought against the wild in the name of civilization. Hays and McFall have succeeded in mixing the Western genre tropes with the Gothic conventions to create a zany grey romance.
~ Writastic Thoughts from the Thinking Realm

One of the weirdest stories I have ever read. It’s right up there with Neil Gaiman’s man-swallowing woman parts and talking tents. Instead, here we have rocket-launching, womb-sucking, Bible-bending, non-pointy-toothed vampires. And love. And cowboys. Depending on what you are looking for, that might be a good thing. If I had to liken this book to a movie, it would either be to Tucker & Dale vs. Evil, or maybe more appropriately, Quentin Tarantino’s From Dusk to Dawn.
~ The Avid Reader

The Cowboy and the Vampire: A Very Unusual Romance is one of the funniest and most engaging books I have read in a long time. Jam-packed with adventure, vampires, true love, and a cast of characters you will not soon forget, you find yourself turning the pages thinking, “What more could possibly happen to these two?” And then, you find out. I never imagined the melding of a contemporary western and a paranormal romance could ever be so seamless or so much fun.
~ Bitten by Books

A choice and very much recommended read, not to be missed. Relationships are tumultuous when they may only last a few decades, but when they last eternity, it can get more difficult. “Blood and Whiskey” is a novel of adventure, horror, and cowboys as a follow up to previous novel ‘The Cowboy and the Vampire’, as couple Tucker and Lizzie retreat to a tiny town to of LonePine, hoping to settle down, but the reality of the Vampires on their trail may make that an impossibility. A riveting read that explores many concepts on top of the intrigue of vampires in the lawless lands of the west, “Blood and Whiskey” is a choice and very much recommended read, not to be missed. ~ Midwest Book Review, Micah Andrew, Reviewer

If you’re looking for a combination of sex, blood and Western romance, pour yourself a shot of the good stuff and settle in for a wickedly good read.
~ Renee Struthers, Eastern Oregonian Newspaper
About the Authors:

Between the two of them, Clark Hays and Kathleen McFall have worked in writing jobs ranging from cowboy-poet to energy journalist to restaurant reviewer to university press officer. After they met, their writing career took center stage when they wrote the first book in The Cowboy and the Vampire Collection as a test for marriage. They passed. Clark and Kathleen now live in Portland, Oregon.

www.cowboyandvampire.com

www.facebook.com/cowboyandvampire

@cowboyvamp (Twitter)

@cowboyvampire (Instagram)

Author Interview : Penelope’s Ghost by Goldie Alexander

Little Blurb about yourself:
“Goldie Alexander’s latest novel, Penelope’s Ghost, is a haunting romance published by Boroughs Publishing Group. Her short stories, articles and books for adults, young adults and children are published both here and overseas. For children she is best known for, "My Australian Story: Surviving Sydney Cove", now in its 11th edition. Recent work for middle grade readers includes ‘The Youngest Cameleer’, ‘eSide: A Journey into Cyberspace’, ‘Cybertrix 2043,’ and ‘Neptunia’. For YA readers: ‘In Hades’ and ‘That Stranger next Door.’ Her latest junior novel is ‘Gallipoli Medals.’ Goldie facilitates creative writing workshops in schools, mentors emerging authors and runs Writing Memoir classes.”

1. Who or what inspired you to become a writer?
I have always loved to read and make up stories. That inevitably leads to writing my own stories.

2. How long did it take you to write “Penelope’s Ghost”?
Approximately six months. I am quite slow, I think. And there are always the rewrites and other things – like life- that get in the way.

3. While writing how many times do you go back and rewrite a plot?
I rarely rewrite plots; rather I go inside the plot and that gets rewritten many times and fleshed out even more often.

4. You run into a bookstore, where do you go first?
The children’s section as most of my work is for young readers. This is usually situated at the back of the store and delegated as not important. I always wonder at this because if kids don’t read, they certainly won’t read when they grow up.

5. How many books in a month do you tend to read?
I belong to a number of book clubs so that means at least 4. Sometimes I have to reread a book as well. Does that count?

6. In all the books you've read. Who is your most favorite character and why?
I know this sounds corny, but I have always loved Elizabeth Bennet.

7. State 5 random facts about yourself.
Persistent. Anxious. Self deprecating. Interested in other people. Kind.

8. Your favorite Genre?
Don’t have a favorite. I love crime, Romance and literary novels.

9. What are you currently reading?
‘Her Husband’s Secret’ and ‘Burial Rights’.

10. What is the best book you've read?
All the Shakespeare tragedies.

11. Any new projects coming up?
2 new YA books just out “In Hades” a verse novel and “That Stranger Next Door” set at the time of the McCarthy investigations.

12. Here’s your chance to market your book. Describe it. And why readers should pick it up?
Fleeing a humiliating end to a passionless marriage, Lisa Harbinger seeks refuge in a posh summer retreat on Australia’s lush South Coast. There she finds work as a nanny for two willful children on one prestigious estate. But behind Rangoon’s ivy and red brick walls lies a mystery: What really happened to the family’s beloved Penelope?
Even more mysterious is Richard Prescott. Cold and aloof by day, Lisa’s boss heats up her nights and awakens her soul. But to have a future they both must escape their pasts. Vengeful ghosts and a generations-old curse seek to bring ruin on Richard and his family. But if Lisa can find the answers, she—and her growing love—could be the one to set him free.


Penelope’s Ghost
Goldie Alexander

Genre: Paranormal/Romantic Suspense/Contemporary

Publisher: Boroughs Publishing Group

Date of Publication: April 9th 2014

ISBN: 9781941260142
ASIN: B00JLGEFQO

Word Count: 83,560

ARe Amazon Smashwords

Book Description:

Haunted. Haunting. Redeemed.

When Lisa Harbinger takes a job as nanny to a prestigious Australian family, she gets more than she bargained for: two spoilt children, vengeful ghosts, a long-unsolved mystery and a blazing passion she and her enigmatic boss are unable to deny.

Excerpt:
“He fell in love with someone else,” Richard repeated thoughtfully. “Was she a friend of yours?”
It must be time to confess. What he would think of me after that, I didn’t dare consider. “Actually, she was a he. Simon fell in love with Robert and finally admitted he was gay.”
Richard’s eyebrows shot up. “Married to someone as lovely and intelligent as you? That’s almost impossible to believe.”
Lovely? Intelligent? Not knowing how to respond to these compliments I said quickly, “I think Simon always knew he was gay. Even when he married me, he was just in denial. I was too dumb to wake up to it.”
“When you did realise, how did it make you feel?”
“Angry. Miserable. Then totally stupid,” I answered. “There were so many hints, but I kept on ignoring them.” Then I dared to venture, as the atmosphere between us was definitely pulsing, “He was never interested in sex.”
His face blank, Richard turned to the next page of the book we were sharing, then another. In the pause I heard an owl hoot and the wind rustle a branch against the window.
At last he put down the book. “Never interested in sex. That mean you’re not? Let’s find out.” With this, he placed one arm around my waist and with the other hand tilted my head so I faced him. Then he carefully and delicately placed his mouth over mine.


About the Author:

Goldie Alexander has published over 75 books plus many prize winning short stories and articles. For children she is best known for, "My Australian Story: Surviving Sydney Cove", now in its 10th edition. Amongst recent work are three collections of short stories: ‘Killer Virus’, ‘My Horrible Cousins’ and ‘Space Footy”.

Her latest novels for Young Adult include ‘The Youngest Cameleer’, ‘In Hades’ a verse novel, and ‘That Stranger next Door’. For middle grade readers: ‘eSide: A Journey into Cyberspace’. ‘ Cybertrix: 2043, and ‘Neptunia’, and the Junior novel ‘Gallipoli Medals’. She has authored the how-to-write ‘Mentoring Your Memoir’, facilitates creative writing workshops and mentors emerging authors.

Penelope's Ghost is Goldie's first, but far from last, Romance novel.


Where you can find author : Goldie Alexander

Facebook: facebook: goldiealexander1

Twitter: twitter/goldiealexander

Goodreads: Goldie Alexander

Website:www.goldiealexander.com

Blog:www.goldiealexander.com/blog

Boroughs Publishing Group: www.BoroughsPublishingGroup.com


Giveaway

1 winner will receive a 10-book subscription to the Lunchbox Romance line.
The ten-book subscription will provide the winner with a new Lunchbox Romance every two weeks. Lunchbox Romances are "delicious short Romances consumable during the lunch hour."

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Author Interview/#Giveaway: The Darkness of Glengowyn by Isabo Kelly

Little Blurb about yourself:

Hi! Thanks for having me here today. I grew up in Las Vegas (I know, wild huh? It was actually really boring and I couldn’t wait to get out). I went to Hawaii for my Bachelors’ degree in Zoology. After I got my degree, I moved back to Vegas for a bit where I worked at the Natural History Museum taking care of sharks and snakes. Then I moved with my folks to Germany and eventually landed in Ireland to do my Ph.D. in animal behavior. I met my now husband there—he has such a cute accent! Eventually we moved to New York City, where we still live. I’m a stay-at-home mom to two beautiful little boys and a full-time writer. Oh I’m also a travel addict, a Sudoku addict, and a chocolate and coffee addict. (Hello, my name is Isabo, and I’m a coffee addict *g*)

1. Who or what inspired you to become a writer?

IK: I’ve been writing since I was little—or I should say I’ve been telling stories since I was little—and my biggest inspirations for those stories were movies actually—Star Wars and Indian Jones had a huge impact on me (Harrison Ford!! Yummy!). I didn’t actually think I’d be a writer for real, though, until I got to college and had a particularly good English teacher who encouraged me to take the writing seriously. Until that point, I thought it would be a hobby while I worked as a scientist. Funny enough, I had several college teachers during my undergraduate years encourage me toward writing, despite the fact that I was in college getting a science degree. I have to thank them for helping me view writing as an actual option.


2. How long did it take you to write THE DARKNESS OF GLENGOWYN?

IK: I was about seven months pregnant with my second baby when I wrote the first draft of this book, and I wanted to get the draft finished before my due date. In the end, I wrote the full thing in a total of 18 days—two of those days earlier in the summer when I got the opening scene down, but the rest I wrote really quickly that October. I ended up writing the third book in the series the month after I finished this one and got that draft done in about 13 days (even though the book was longer!). I didn’t mean to, but I actually completed NaNoWriMo successfully because I was writing so fast. I was really motivated to finish the drafts before my maternity leave *g*

3. While writing how many times do you go back and rewrite a plot?

IK: I write really fast first drafts, usually all in one go without much editing. Then I go through the book at least another two, maybe three times before I send it off to my editor. Because I believe in the shitty first draft and fast writing to get the bones down (this technique works best for me), I do have to do a lot of editing. I’m getting better at it all though. I used to need 4 or 5 drafts before I could comfortably show anyone a book.

4. You run into a bookstore, where do you go first?

IK: I go right to the genre shelves. Usually Romance first followed by Science Fiction/Fantasy. Sometimes that order is reversed, but I hit up both those sections consistently when in the bookstore.


5. How many books in a month do you tend to read?

IK: Not nearly as many as I buy *g* I’m not very consistent in my reading either. Some months I only read 1 novel because I’m busy writing and too much into my own story to step into someone else’s world (though I’ll still read magazines and non-fiction during those periods). Other times, I binge on 4 or 5 books in a week. I also like to read novellas so I can squeeze in an entire story in a few hours and get my fiction fix even if I need to keep my focus on my current work-in-progress.

6. In all the books you've read. Who is your most favorite character and why?

IK: Oh this is impossible! There are so many memorable and beloved characters in my reading history. I guess I’d have to say Roarke from JD Robb’s In Death series rises to the top of the list. And Stephanie Plum in the early books is still one of my favorites too.

7. State 5 random facts about yourself.

IK: Hmmm, okay.
1. I was called the shark lady at the Natural History Museum in Las Vegas when I worked there.
2. I’m a really terrible housekeeper.
3. I work out a lot of my plots and initial story ideas while I’m in the shower (I actually get some privacy to think in the shower!)
4. I love to swim (I was a fish when I was younger).
5. If I won the lottery, I’d totally pack my boys up and go traveling more.

8. Your favorite Genre?

IK: Romance, fantasy, paranormal and science fiction (or any combination of those genres) are all about equal. I adore historical romance, too!

9. What are you currently reading?

IK: I’m busy writing so I’ve been sticking to novellas a lot lately. Currently I’m reading a historical romance anthology—Three Weddings and a Murder from authors Tessa Dare, Leigh Lavalle,
Courtney Milan and Carey Baldwin. And Tessa Dare’s A Week to Be Wicked is the full length novel I’m squeezing into my schedule.

10. What is the best book you've read?

IK: Another impossible question! LOL Though while I rarely re-read books, I have re-read Bet Me by Jennifer Crusie a couple of times so obviously that ranks up there. The Iron Duke by Meljean Brook is high ranking too.

11. Any new projects coming up?

After THE DARKNESS OF GLENGOWYN, I have the third book in the Fire and Tears series, WARRIOR’S DAWN, coming out July 29th, and I’m mulling over the fourth book in the series now. I’m also editing book 3 in my science fiction romance series The Naravan Chronicles—which I’m hoping to have out early in 2015.


Here’s your chance to market your book. Describe it. And why readers should pick it up?

THE DARKNESS OF GLENGOWYN is a gritty, dark fantasy romance that should appeal to readers of high fantasy and paranormal romance alike. This is the story of two Glengowyn elves—Nuala and Einar—who’ve been in love for centuries but are forbidden to be together. When they’re sent into the warzone of the neighboring human city and end up on the run from the bad guys, they find out resisting their love and attraction is impossible. But once they give in, they face the wrath of their king and queen. It’s a very sexy and exciting story (if I do say so myself *g*) and Einar is super hot. His devotion to Nuala is yummy and pretty irresistible.

The Darkness of Glengowyn
Fire and Tears
Book 2
Isabo Kelly

Genre: Fantasy Romance

Publisher: Samhain Publishing

Date of Publication: April 29, 2014

ISBN: 978-1-61922-046-1
ASIN: B00HSOHSCY

Number of pages: 151 pages
Word Count: 44,000 words
Cover Artist: Angela Waters

Amazon BN Samhain Kobo

Book Description:

They’ll risk forever death for one last chance together…

Nuala of Glengowyn hasn’t left her home city in over a century, but not by choice. Her skill as a weapons master has made her a prisoner of her people. Held apart, protected in the extreme—until Sorcerers attack the human city of Sinnale.

Sent to supply her unique magical arrows to help the humans, she is far from free.

The elf king and queen have sent a bodyguard, a fearsome warrior whose reputation has no rival. The only man she has ever wanted. Einar of Glengowyn.

Einar is known as a battle-crazed destroyer, so feared among elves he’s called by a single name: Darkness. And he has only one weakness—Nuala. Their union is forbidden, for melding their magics could destroy Nuala’s gifts. Yet as they journey to the war-torn city, no royal decree is a match for two hundred years of pent-up desire.

But even if they escape the war zone, their lives still hang in the balance. They must confront their sovereigns and prove love makes them stronger—or face their deaths.

Product Warnings: This book contains a deadly elf hero, a heroine who’s his match, a lot of sexy misbehaving, some hard language, racing through the streets, owls, arrows, evil Sorcerers, wicked minions, and a very dangerous elf king and queen.
EXCERPT 782 words

Nuala stared at Einar for a few more minutes, caught by his intensity. To escape, she glanced down at his injured arm. “I can wrap that for you.” She gestured to the wound.
He gave it a cursory glance. “It’s only a scratch.”
“But neither of us can afford to have you weakened.” She spun in a slow circle, then started opening doors. When she found a room that contained a couch, she led him inside. “Sit,” she ordered.
Without supplies, her only option for binding the wound was the hem of her riding robe. “Your knife.” She held out a hand without looking at him and pulled up the long length of material.
“It’s not necessary.”
“Don’t argue.” She wiggled her fingers, still focused on the material in her hand. His presence threw her off balance and looking directly at him made it worse. They hadn’t spent this much time together, alone and in close proximity, since…
She didn’t want to think about the last time.
After the knife hilt settled gently into her palm, she sliced a few lengths of silk along the split front hem of the robe. It would leave a wider V in the front, but since they had to travel quickly, she was considering cutting off the length completely anyway. Once the sun set, the early autumn nights were too cold to get rid of the over-robe altogether. It was designed to allow easy, free movement, with slits in front and back so she could sit astride her horse without the long material getting in the way. It had stayed out of her way during the earlier fight too. But those lengths of material could be put to better use. And the less she had to worry about right now, the better.
Once she had sufficient improvised bandages, she turned to Einar. “Take your tunic off,” she said, her voice as firm and emotionless as she could make it.
She tried not to be affected as he stood, removed his scabbard belt, then slipped his short vest off and dragged his tunic up over his head. Unfortunately, she couldn’t hold back her quickly drawn breath when the magnificent musculature of his chest was revealed in full.
This wasn’t the first time she’d seen him bare-chested, but the sight never ceased to stir her. When she looked up, she found him staring at her, his dark eyes black in the dim light leaking in through grimy windows. She swallowed and focused on his arm. Her heartbeat sped as she drew near enough to feel the heat of his skin and smell the tangy combination of his natural spicy musk mixed with the sweat of battle. With Einar, that combination had always overwhelmed her better judgment, targeting her most desperate desires. Only with him.
Yet another reason she’d spent so many years avoiding him.
Though her pulse pounded in her ears, she concentrated on making her hands steady, her touch gentle. She used one length of material to gently blot the worst of the blood away. Some still seeped slowly from the injury, but not enough to be dangerous. Once she’d gotten the area as clean as possible with a dry cloth, she used another length to tightly bind the wound.
His muscles flexed under her touch, which didn’t help. “Relax,” she ordered, her voice irritatingly husky.
He let out a long, slow exhale that brushed over the top of her head, and his biceps relaxed. She noticed at a glance, however, that his stomach muscles were tightly clenched. When she risked a peek at his face, his jaw was also tight, and he stared at the wall across from where they stood.
She turned back to her work, knowing she shouldn’t have risked this kind of proximity for this long. Einar had more power over her body and heart than any other elf. A fact they were both growing more aware of with each passing moment.
When she’d tied off the bandage, satisfied it would do for now, she stepped back and gestured at his leg without actually looking down. “Are you cut or was it just your trousers?”
“It’s nothing.”
“Nothing as in no blood, or nothing as in you don’t wish me to bandage the wound?”
His gaze jumped from the wall to her and she took another involuntary step back. Heat, promise, need and something she didn’t want to admit seeing blazed out at her, an arrow right into her heart.
“You made it clear,” he said quietly, “that your magic was not something you could sacrifice. We should not remain this close. And I should not take off any more clothing around you.”


About the Author:

Isabo Kelly is the award-winning author of numerous fantasy, science fiction, and paranormal romances. Her life has taken her from Las Vegas to Hawaii, where she got her BA in Zoology, back to Vegas where she looked after sharks, then on to Germany and Ireland where she got her Ph.D. in Animal Behavior.

Now Isabo focuses on writing. She lives in New York with her Irish husband, two beautiful boys, and funny dog. She works as a full time author and stay-at-home mom.

For more on Isabo and her books, visit her at www.isabokelly.com follow her on Twitter @IsaboKelly, or friend her on Facebook www.facebook.com/IsaboKelly

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/722664.Isabo_Kelly



Tour giveaway

3 ebook copies of the first book in the Fire and Tears series—BRIGHTARROW BURNING.

1- $40 gift certificate to winner’s choice of B&N or Amazon

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Author Interview/Giveaway : Envelope: Red by K Baskett

ENVELOPE: Red

by K.Baskett

QUICK FACTS:

Release Date: November 30th, 2013.                           

Genre: Suspense                                              

Formats to buy: paperback and Kindle

SYNOPSIS:

Unemployed with no prospects, Dorian Wells is a young man trying desperately to stay afloat and be a good father to his toddler son. While already struggling to pay the bills and earn proper visitation with his child, Dorian’s tumultuous life is thrown into further upheaval when his mother is suddenly hospitalized.

On the verge of losing everything, it seems Dorian finally has a stroke of luck when he inadvertently learns of a potential opportunity with Jakkaru, a decadent, cut-throat organization that pays handsomely by the body count. Dorian’s lifelong friend, Rafe Ibadiah, is his ticket into Jakkaru and soon Dorian is training to be a professional hitman. But learning how to properly kill for a living is not as easy as it seems, and he quickly discovers the short arms of theory are a far reach from reality as the harrowing journey makes him question everything he believes.

The final test before full acceptance into Jakkaru is a contract Dorian must complete alone. Delivered to him via a small red envelope, the name inside propels the stakes of this dangerous game higher than ever before. Dorian will sacrifice anything for his son, but it’s not until he is ordered to do the unthinkable that he grasps the horrific depth of his commitment.

Award-winning author, K. Baskett, expertly weaves a chilling tale of suspense in Envelope: Red that culminates in a shocking look at the prickly nuances of loyalty. Gritty and authentic, Dorian’s story is ultimately a poignant examination of the human condition - what lies within the heart of us all.

Excerpt:

The butler goes to the corner of the room where a small stand holds a glass carafe of water and crystal goblets. He pours some and hands the glass to me, then exits the room, clicking the door quietly closed behind him.

I take a shaky sip, and my parched lips scream with relief. The cool water helps to alleviate my perspiration as well, which has already thoroughly embarrassed me.

“Welcome, Dorian,” says the man seated behind the desk. He is large and stocky, with a bald head and bad skin. He observes me through black, beady eyes that don't seem to blink. “I am Mr Black, and this is my colleague, Mr Red.” He indicates the man flanking his ornate leather chair. Mr Red nods at me slightly. He is reedy with delicate wireframe glasses perched on his beaky nose.

“H-hello,” I stutter, biting down nervous laughter at the absurdity of their names. My hands tremble so badly I am very nearly spilling my glass of water. I set it down gingerly on the small table beside my chair.

“We understand you are here because you're interested in becoming a member of our prestigious organization,” Mr Black begins.

“Yes, sir.”

“I see,” Mr Black says thoughtfully. “Well, as I'm sure you might imagine, we have to know a few things about anyone seeking to join our ranks. Therefore, we have taken the liberty to peek into your background.”

My saliva dries up, making my tongue swell like a blowfish and stick to the roof of my mouth.

Mr Red lifts an iPad from the desk and begins to read from it. “Dorian Wells, age twenty-five. No siblings. Both parents deceased; most recently the mother, Verona Marshall, from an advanced case of septicemia. One son, Josiah Wells, just turned two. Josiah's mother, Milan Carter, age twenty-three. No significant work history, just a few minimum wage jobs here and there. Once matriculated at the local community college but no degree. Currently unemployed. Recently granted a full visitation schedule for son, Josiah, by the family court. Girlfriend, Sekoya Williams, age twenty-nine; dating for about a year.” Mr Red stops reading from the iPad and looks directly at me. “Congratulations.”

My stomach is turning somersaults hearing all this detailed intimate information; it's so surreal. The main thing that sticks out in my mind is that he said, 'both parents deceased.' I don't even know who my father is, and they apparently have not only identified him, but also discovered he is dead. I'm not sure what to say after this recitation, but I can tell they are waiting for me to speak, so I murmur, “Yes, sir. That's me.”

Mr Black laces his pudgy fingers together on top of the desk. “You should know, Dorian: that was the summarized version.”

The Author

 

Jack of all trades, master of none - save for the art of procrastination - K. Baskett lives by the motto, "Never do today what can be put off until tomorrow." K. firmly believes that you aren't really interested in the author's hometown, spouse, children or pets, and has therefore decided to spare you the details. No Greater Illusion is the author's award-winning debut novel. Envelope: Red, the second offering, is a gritty suspense-thriller releasing November 2013.

Get to know her at:

Website

Twitter: @kbaskett1

Facebook: Envelope Red

                   No Greater Illusion

Other books from K. Baskett:

No Greater Illusion 

Genre: Dystopia

Finalist in the 2013 Next Generation Indie Book Awards

                                              

And don't miss her short stories:

Do what must be done 

The Golden Visit

GIVEAWAY:

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TOUR SCHEDULE:

February 1: Laurie's Thoughts and Reviews: Top 10 List

February 3: The Stuff of Success: Spotlight

February 4: I know that Book: Guest Post

February 5: My Devotional Thoughts: Top 10 List

February 7: A Writer's Life: Spotlight

February 10: Deal Sharing Aunt: Review

February 12: Mythical Books: Author Interview

February 16: Vanilla Moon: Character Interview

February 17: Books, Books The Magical Fruit: Author Interview

February 20: Reading For Fun: GP 

February 22: Desert Rose Reviews: Spotlight

February 24: That Girl Reads: Top 10 List

February 27: The News in Books: Review

February 28: Black Lion's Blog: Interview

Author Interview/Giveaway : On the Edge of Humanity by S. B. Alexander

Little Blurb about yourself:

I’m a tomboy at heart, but I still like all the girlie things, although I don’t wear much make-up. That’s one thing I’ve really never gotten into. I love helping people whether it’s teaching or coaching individuals or teams of people. I do work in Corporate America in sales, and when I’m not working, I’m writing. However, since I travel extensively for my job, I do find time on planes and in hotels to write. It seems my best source of ideas come from me sitting on a plane or in a hotel. When I am home, I love to spend time with my husband and two Shih-tzus.

1. Who or what inspired you to become a writer?

Growing up, my best friend and I used to make up stories and then chop the story up into scenes then act them out, engaging our friends in the neighborhood. We either wrote spooky stories or musicals. The scary ones were always fun.


2. How long did it take you to write On the Edge of Humanity and On the Edge of Eternity?

I would say it took me about six months on each book.


3. While writing how many times do you go back and rewrite a plot?

At first it was a couple of times. However, the more I write and develop a routine, I find that I may add layers to a plot but not rewrite the whole storyline.

4. You run into a bookstore, where do you go first?

I usually run to the New Release section, unless I’m on a mission looking for a specific book.


5. How many books in a month do you tend to read?
4


6. In all the books you've read. Who is your most favorite character and why?

Nancy Drew. She was curious, strong, determined and loved to help people.

7. State 5 random facts about yourself.
I served in the US Navy.
I’ve never had wisdom teeth.
I’m a former High School Math Teacher
My early childhood was spent in foster care.
I love the Boston Red Sox.


8. Your favorite Genre?
Paranormal

9. What are you currently reading?
Stained by Ella James

10. What is the best book you've read?
The Shining by Stephen King.

11. Any new projects coming up?

The Vampire SEAL series will have about six books in total. The next one in the queue is On the Edge of Destiny, which is halfway complete.

I’m also working on a separate series (non-paranormal) young adult romance based on a teenage girl whose dream is to play baseball.

Here’s your chance to market your book. Describe it. And why readers should pick it up?

The Vampire SEAL series follows Jo Mason as she embarks on her journey into a unique world of vampires and the paranormal. Her story begins when she learns she carries a dormant vampire gene, that if activated, could save her twin brother Sam, who is kidnapped by an evil cartel. The only problem is she has no idea where to find him until she meets, Lieutenant Webb London, a Navy SEAL who is part of a secret team of natural-born vampires. However, rescuing Sam may be the easy part. Now she must decide if her human life is more important than her twin brother. But that’s only one problem. She has many more as she battles the enemy, struggles with bullies, gets to know her estranged father and longs for her first kiss, her first date and her first high school dance.

The series is filled with tons of action, swoon-worthy characters, drama and the beginning of a budding romance.

On the Edge of Humanity
A Vampire Seal Novel
Book One
S. B. Alexander

Genre: Paranormal, Urban Fantasy

Publisher: S. B. Alexander

Date of Publication: 12/27/2012

ISBN: 9780988776203
ASIN: B00ATVDEHQ

Number of pages: 320
Word Count: 120,000

Cover Artist: Streetlight Graphics

Amazon Apple Kobo BN

Book Description:

Sixteen-year-old Jo Mason is lost in a world where traipsing from one foster home to another is normal. She hates her life, she hates school and on most days, she hates living. If it weren’t for her twin brother Sam, she might already be dead.

Her normal world shifts one hundred and eighty degrees when she discovers her own blood tastes like candy and her eyes change colors like a mood ring. On top of that, her eyesight seems to be failing when she spies an otherworldly man, sporting bloodstained canines, who is trying to strangle a cop. The developments are shrouded when Sam goes missing between Anger Management class and History class.

She’s called to the principal’s office to meet Lieutenant Webb London, a Navy SEAL who is part of a secret team of natural-born vampires. His mission is to protect the twins from an evil cartel, but he’s too late. With Jo now under his protection, his team searches for Sam.

However, finding and rescuing Sam from the evil cartel may be the easy part. Jo learns she carries a dormant vampire gene that, if activated, could save him. As her normal world fades even more, pushing her closer to the edge of humanity, Jo must decide if her human life is more important than her twin brother.

With time as her enemy, she struggles to make a life-changing decision for both her and Sam.

About the Author:

For those of you who know me, you know the ‘S’ stands for Susan in S. B. Alexander. I chose to use my initials since there were a few Susan Alexander authors out there.

The one thing I like about reading a book other than the story is reading about the author. Who is he or she? And, how did they become a writer?

For me, it’s always been a passion to write a book. I love to transport myself into other worlds—ones where vampires and the fantastical exist. Where life is the playground for the impossible.

I created fantasy worlds at a young age as a way to deal with life. Yep, I had imaginary friends and talked to myself a lot. I was always creating, thinking, drawing and writing. I believe words are the key to opening the door to extraordinary places with amazing characters that tell a great story.

My life has had a colorful journey. After high school I decided to forgo college. I enrolled in a business program and graduated in ten months with a certificate that allowed me access to Cooperate America. But, somehow the idea to enter into an unknown world at nineteen-years-old was daunting. Instead, I decided if the world was my playground why not join the military, and so I joined the Navy. The four years in the military was a great foreground to learn about life and the world around me. But, as the cliché says, Life goes on.

I traded the military for college. I became a High School Math Teacher and loved it before deciding to revisit the one thing I was frightened of—Cooperate America. I’ve held many roles in the cooperate arena from sales representative to sales manager, but I never lost my passion to write.

When I’m not working my full time job, and plotting my next novel, I love to play golf with my husband, and spend time with my two dogs.

Website: www.sbalexander.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/sbalexander.authorpage

Twitter: @sbalex_author

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/sbalexander




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Author Interview/Giveaway: Communion by B. Patterson

Little Blurb about yourself:

Hi, I’m B. Patterson. I always said I would never write a book about vampires, yet here we are.

While in college, I majored in Psychology and minored in Japanese. I didn’t really have a career plan. But now I work as an academic advisor at a college and help other people come up with theirs.

1. Who or what inspired you to become a writer?

I’ve wanted to be a writer as long as I can remember. But my earliest memory of writing happened right after an episode of an old cartoon called the Muppet Babies (Yes, the Muppets! Kermi, Miss Piggy, the whole crew). Gonzo was narrating a detective story and I remember writing a similar story in my composition notebook as soon as the episode went off.


2. How long did it take you to write Communion?

The very first incarnation of Lester, the main character, came to me Fall 2012. But I didn’t start planning out a story for him until January of this year. After about a week and a half of planning the story out (I set aside 3 weeks to do so), I completely fell for the story and knew I had to get to work on this one. I wasn’t done with the first presentable draft until early June.


3. While writing how many times do you go back and rewrite a plot?

No more than 3 times. My week and a half of planning gave me a strong, basic outline for the story.

4. You run into a bookstore, where do you go first?

Paranormal/Urban Fantasy :)

5. How many books in a month do you tend to read?

2-4, depending on my writing load. I also read a lot of other people’s work on Wattpad.com.

6. In all the books you've read. Who is your most favorite character and why?

SO TOUGH!! I’m a huge fan of Louis from Interview with a Vampire. In all of the vampire books I’ve read, very few take the time to savor the experience of being a vampire the way he did. Also, he struggles with the moral consequences of being a vampire (feeding on others to live forever) in a way that other vampires brush over.

7. State 5 random facts about yourself.
I speak Japanese
I switched my major 5 times while I was in college (I still got out in 4 years)
This year for Halloween, I’m going to be a dhampir
I haven’t played video games in years, but I’m eagerly waiting for Kingdom Hearts 3 to come out
I like chicken

8. Your favorite Genre?

Urban Fantasy

9. What are you currently reading?

Trickster by Jeff Sommers


10. What is the best book you've read?

The Magicians by Lev Grossman.

11. Any new projects coming up?

A short one called Sparkle, which will be available in April.

“Yes, they’re vampires. Yes, they sparkle. Yes, they’re b*d*ss.”

Here’s your chance to market your book. Describe it. And why readers should pick it up?

Communion is the book a lot of people have been waiting for. It’s a Young Adult title from a male perspective. Lester is conflicted and at times uncertain, but is a likable character despite the situation he’s found himself in.
My dhampir are dark and often struggle morally with their decision to live as they do.
Lastly, my characters are believable. How would you act if you were turned into a blood sucker? You’ll see in Communion that my characters are as rational as they come.

Communion
B. Patterson

Genre: YA/Urban Fantasy

Number of pages: 155
Word Count: Approximately 46,000

Cover Artist: Jason Alexander

Book Description:
"Lester Fuller knows isolation well. It has been his only friend since Jadarius Singleton humiliated him last year. But one night after Jadarius's taunts go too far, Lester stumbles upon Gwynn's body. He's sure she's dead. Until she bites him.

Vampires are extinct. There are only the dhampir.

Now something more than human, Lester struggles to determine where he fits in this new society. Just what secrets about the dhampir are his friends keeping from him? And what will he do when a notorious figure from dhampir history sets her eyes on him?"

About the Author:

I’m a 25 year old writer. I’m a graduate of North Carolina State University where I majored in Psychology and minored in Japanese. I currently live in Maryland.

I wrote a lot as a kid. I began a new story (or 3 or 4) every school year, but rarely finished them. I finally finished one when I was 16. It was about ninjas. It was really bad.

Communion, my first completed novel worth publishing, will be released October 1st. I have that and many other works coming down the pipeline. I plan to be writing for many years to come.

My values as a writer include:
Writing high-quality books
Diversity
Integrity
Entertainment

Where you can find author:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/B-Patterson/554587371251275

Twitter: www.twitter.com/bpattfiction

Website/Blog: www.bpattfiction.com



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