Friday, March 27, 2015

Blog Tour: Running Interference by @elleywrites #interview & #giveaway



Contemporary Romance
Date Published: January 19, 2015


As an offensive linewoman for the Cleveland Clash, Tanya Martin is tough inside and out. The 5'9" beauty can take a hit and keep on going. But when the man she was best friends with - and secretly in love with - in high school comes home the same day she learns her father's gym is in financial trouble, she's unexpectedly blindsided.

Super Bowl MVP Cam Simmons is only back in town to convince his mom to move out of her failing neighborhood and live in luxury with him in Boston. But running into Tanya stirs up plenty of old feelings he never resolved. He was happy to leave his old life behind him when he hit the NFL, but walking away from their friendship was a mistake he wants to rectify.

As they work together to help save her dad's gym, Cam and Tanya's easy camaraderie and undeniable chemistry resurface. But can she open up enough to trust him with her heart a second time around?

Purchase Links



Interview

Is There a Message in Your Novel That You Want Readers to Grasp?

My publisher put it best when they came up with this tagline for some promotional materials: Who says tough isn’t sexy? Of course, the message behind that is women can be strong and capable while being alluring too. The idea that a strong woman is a turn-off or an annoyance bothers me. Strong women alongside strong men built this world into what it is today. It took all genders, and it will take all genders going forward. 

Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
Ha! After 12 published books, you would think the challenges would be waning. Nope. I still struggle with the basics like characterization and pacing. Depending on what’s going on in my life, it can be hard to write as my character instead of writing as me. That’s where I struggle the most.



How many books have you written and which is your favorite?
Well, I’ve written 15, and eleven of those are currently published with No. 12 coming out in May. My favorite is hard to pick, because it feels like a mother picking a favorite child, but I will tell you that I’m very partial to Change My Mind: Kemmons Bros. Baseball 2, and those characters Nel and Grey. There’s just something about that story that makes me want to re-read the book. And believe me, I avoid re-reading my work once it’s published and can’t be changed.




If you had the chance to cast your main character from Hollywood today, who would you pick and why?
I know exactly who I’d like to see cast as Cam: Morris Chesnut. Yum! That man was born to play a professional football player. He also does sincere and emotional scenes very well. For Tanya, that’s tougher. The actress would have to embody her strength, and that’s hard to find in younger actresses. Let’s just say I’d like to see Serayah McNeill, from Empire, read for the role. She’s breathtakingly beautiful and sassy with a capital S.



When did you begin writing?
I’ve been writing professional for about 16 years now. The first ten years of that were non-fiction, writing for magazines and eventually winding up at the Walt Disney Company. Fiction, and the world of total creation, was always calling to me though, and in March 2013 my first romance was published.



How long did it take to complete your first book?
My first book, which will never be published because it’s too big of a mess to fix, took ten years to write. I started it when my kids were wee tiny and I often had no money to buy new books for myself and no car to get to the library to borrow them. Since I didn’t know what I was doing or have anything other than enjoyment on my mind, writing it was a very lazy process.



Did you have an author who inspired you to become a writer?
Judith McNaught would be the big inspirationg. I read her books with the same necessity as I breathed. Holding one made me feel like I’d never be alone or unhappy again.



What is your favorite part of the writing process?
When I feel what the character is feeling, it’s the most gratifying part of writing. It’s like I’m literally giving birth to these people I’ve created. There really are no words to describe that feeling.



Describe your latest book in 4 words.

Football. Passion. Second chances. 

Can you share a little bit about your current work or what is in the future for your writing?
The second book in the Cleveland Clash series, Crossing the Line, releases in May, and that book tells the love story of wide receiver, wild child Jillian Bell and her offensive coordinator, former Marine Carter Howl. Lots of sparks between the two as they battle for control. I’m currently writing the third book in the Cleveland Clash series, Keeping Score, which features Cleveland Clash Center, Jade Wren, a Korean-American, and a sports radio shock jock, Rome Rizelli, as her unlikely hero. I’m having lots of fun with that one!





Elley Arden is a born and bred Pennsylvanian who has lived as far west as Utah and as far north as Wisconsin. She drinks wine like it’s water (a slight exaggeration), prefers a night at the ballpark to a night on the town, and believes almond English toffee is the key to happiness.
Charming characters. Emotional stories. Sexy romance.

Twitter: @elleywrites



Thursday, March 26, 2015

Blog Tour: Lexi Goes on Vacation to the Outer Banks by @janicekingsbury #interview



Children's Book
Date Published: October 2014


Ms. Janice and Mr. Rob have vacationed in the seashore town of Duck in North Carolina for 10 years. Duck is a friendly place with sandy beaches where children and dogs romp to their hearts content. This year Lexi, a new addition to their dog family, will come too. But the vacation will be like no other and as the sun sets on the beach it promises to be a long night, one the family will never forget!

Full color illustrations appeal to children and make the book come alive. The action and adventure encourage children to read to the end and learn new vocabulary. Even reluctant readers will want to finish the story.

Interview

Is There a Message in Your Novel That You Want Readers to Grasp?

I hope readers will understand that rescue/adoptive dogs are wonderful.  Some have baggage through no fault of their own, but with patience and training they can become a wonderful family addition.  Dogs have needs too and the more the dogs needs are addressed, such as space for exercise and socialization, the better the dog will be adjusted.  Community and values all play a part in a well-adjusted family.

Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

I tend to get wordy.  My college professors used to bring extra paper for me for essays.  It was a standing joke.  I also want to avoid being preachy or suggest that I know all the answers.  Everyone does the best they can with dogs, children and family.  It’s a growing and learning process.  If you take your dogs to a dog park, you will meet people with a great deal of experience who are very relaxed with their animals.  Others who are new to having dogs will get upset when the dogs try to play with each other.   

How many books have you written and which is your favorite?

I’ve written 5 books.  Lexi Goes on Vacation to the Outer Banks was my favorite and the only one I wanted to publish until recently.  I’m about to publish another one that I like also.  After that, I’ll decide if I want to publish the others or write something new. 


If you had the chance to cast your main character from Hollywood today, who would you pick and why?

Lexi is called Lassie more than he’s called by his actual name, so I think Lassie could play him.  They do look alike.  Julianne Moore is the name I get the most, probably because of the red hair.  I would love it if she played Ms. Janice.  A couple of people have commented that the book would be an awesome movie. Maybe Lexi could be the next Lassie.  We can hope!

When did you begin writing?

When I was young, I loved to write.  I think I loved books so much as a child that I wanted to write my own stories. Later I was so involved in graduate school and my job as a School Psychologist I didn’t have much time to write.   I mostly wrote poems or short articles for myself.  The last year I worked at school, 3 years ago, I made a video and wrote lyrics for it.  It was supposed to win second prize with one of the big animal rescues.  Then two years ago I began to write and be creative again.  It’s best when I’m in a quiet environment and relaxed.  Then the ideas come.  I’m especially grateful for my time in the Outer Banks.  It’s here I feel most creative.

How long did it take to complete your first book?

Lexi Goes on Vacation to the Outer Banks took 5 or 6 months to write and publish.  The book before that sat for a year and when I finished it, I wasn’t happy with it.


Did you have an author who inspired you to become a writer?
I think my first “coming of age” book, “Little Women,” inspired me the most.  I loved the book and read it 5 times when I was a preteen.  I truly loved books from the time I could read. 


What is your favorite part of the writing process?

It’s difficult to pick just one.  It’s very exciting when I first get an idea and begin to write.  Then when the manuscript is finished or almost finished, I love coming up with illustrations that I’ve been thinking about.  I have to admit, however, getting the book in my hand to proof was one of the most inspiring days of my life.  Seeing the finished project and knowing you had a big part in creating it is magic! 

Describe your latest book in 4 words.

Will make you smile! 

Can you share a little bit about your current work or what is in the future for your writing?

 I am currently putting together a children’s book.  It is nearly finished and I ‘m waiting on final drawings.  I am arranging promotions for the book.  After that I have a book in mind about a little girl who gets bullied and tries to win the bullies over and be their friend.  But one day she discovers the real meaning of friendship.

Another book is an adult novel about life with dogs.  A challenging and fast-paced, edgy life sometimes becomes too much for an ambitious over-achiever and she begins to question herself and the people she has chosen to be part of her life. Controlling parents, two failed marriages, backstabbing coworkers, and narcissist bosses lead her to lose faith in people and wonder if she can ever trust again.  But through it all, there is one constant, her rescue dogs, and she begins to wonder who saved whom.




Janice Wills Kingsbury grew up in New Jersey.  She worked as a teacher and later as a School Psychologist for 18 years.  Janice also taught reading and has a love of children's literature.  Janice is also involved in animal rescue. Her children's books are written from the heart and portray her love of and knowledge about children and animals. The stories will capture children's interest and imagination.  Age 6-12, but suitable for all ages, even adults.


Wednesday, March 25, 2015

Blog Tour: Red Stick Diaries by @uplandpublish #interview



Fiction / Political Drama
Date Published: March 1, 2015


A criminal drama that reveals the power and control that state and local justice system has over its residents. A young woman finds herself enthralled in a romantic love affair after rebuilding her life from a previously traumatic relationship. She soon learns that the man of her dreams is abusive, controlling and untouchable. He uses his network to enable his behaviors while he finds his next victims. Betrayal is a page directly from the diary of one of his victims.

Purchase Link

Interview

Is There a Message in Your Novel That You Want Readers to Grasp?

The main message within the contents of the dramatic storyline is one of self survival in the midst of a world of chaos and lost trusts. One that takes the reader on a journey in which obstacles threaten the very livelihood of one’s existence, yet through sheer willpower and faith there is a new beginning..

Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

The topic of the storyline is a very heavy subject, and entailed revisiting times and things that are difficult to face… the first time around, and in doing so, calls upon a strong determination to complete. For the underlying message is stronger and far more important to share with others than the will to pull away. 

How many books have you written and which is your favorite?

I have written seven (7) books. Each has it’s own special place in my heart. My prose, cookbook and word on the gospel were far more entertaining for me as a writer. But the passion I have strongest within me, lies within the RED STICK DIARIES - Series.


If You had the chance to cast your main character from Hollywood today, who would you pick and why?

I feel the heroine has to be a woman of strengths and wisdom. (Book knowledge and street sense), a woman who could grasp the very substance of this storyline. After viewing EMPIRE this past season, I would have to say Taraji P. Henson is an actress of substance and inner perceptions. She would surely be my first choice. 

When did you begin writing?

 I started writing in high school with my first publish poem. Mrs. Brown, my English teacher was my strongest supporter, and encouraged my further writings.

How long did it take to complete your first book?

Wow! Yes, great question! It took me 3 years to complete. because fears of my own fears, and in accepting the realities that were so great, once viewing the words that hit the page. 

Did you have an author who inspired you to become a writer?


 Many authors influenced me. Terry McMillian, Maya Anjelou… many others. I had had aspirations for a Nobel Prize in literature since I began writing. Having been published for diverse topics in poetry, as an adult since 1985.

What is your favorite part of the writing process?

(Smiles to self...) the last page! Actually, it is the concept of leaving footprints behind in a completed piece.

Describe your latest book in 4 words.

A RED HOT SCANDAL 

Can you share a little bit about your current work or what is in the future for your writing?

I am, have always been an advocate for others who are going through struggles. In speaking and teaching and reaching others who have experienced life and need a form of expression… or outlet, I intend to allow my writings to lead me towards other endeavors which create the opportunity for motivating others to write their stories. I shall continue to let my pen dance upon the page and continue writing. There are 4 other books due out this year in the RED STICK DIARIES Series. And, another saga [entirely different matter] already in the works!


Diamond Ryan

Pen Name: Diamond Ryan, Maya Pinyon
Born: 1958, Los Angeles, California.
Published author and poet.
228 243­0331
Published: The National Library of Poetry 1998 Anthology. Poem: A Tear Falls.
Selected for Anthology; Sound of Poetry. 2002.The Day The Angels Cried.
Nominated for Poet of the Year 2003; International Society of Poets.
Author/Speaker/Youth & Women Advocate/Marketing & Promotions ∙ Baton Rouge and New
Orleans, Louisiana ∙ The Red Shoes.org. 2011 – 2012




PROMO: Seams in Reality and Cracks in Reality by @GraySpear #giveaway






Young Adult Fantasy / Thriller
Date Published: Sept 26, 2014 & December 25 2014

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SEAMS IN REALITY is the first book in the Seams in Reality Series.

As a freshman in a suburban college near Chicago, Andrew leads a mundane life until he meets a professor named Tonya. She is secretly a master sorcerer, and she invites him into a conspiracy of magic. Only those few who possess exceptional talent may join. A resourceful young woman named Charley has the same supernatural gift. She accompanies Andrew on his journey into a dark profession, and romance quickly blooms between the young apprentices. When Andrew meets Blake, a sorcerer who knew his grandfather, Andrew becomes embroiled in a game of lies and treachery. Blake's thirst for power leaves a trail of casualties, and in the end, only Andrew can stop him.

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CRACKS IN REALITY is the second book in the Seams in Reality Series.

The Vault is a fortress in the desert protected by the United States Army, and it contains the most dangerous, forbidden secrets of sorcery. Blake, master sorcerer and fugitive from justice, has a plan for robbing the place. He will create a tangled web of lies to trick the Army into delivering the treasure into his hands. He intends to use the stolen knowledge to destroy his enemies and become the most powerful sorcerer on Earth.

Two apprentices are on a mission to kill Blake. Andrew is a war mage, a genius at psychic combat. Charley is a young woman who commands physical sorcery. Their instructor, Tonya, will turn the two teenagers into warriors capable of defeating Blake, if they can endure the extreme mental and physical tests.

Tonya's training is just the beginning for Andrew and Charley. They must discover Blake's hidden objectives, and they don't have much time. A government agency called the Bureau of Physical Investigation has the same assignment, but the agents are unprepared for the dangers they will face. Other surprising threats await the apprentices as they pursue their enemy along a trail of bloodshed.




About the Author


Alex Siegel grew up a math and computer geek. At the age of twenty-five, he received a Ph.D. in Computer Science from Cornell. He continues to make a good living as a software developer in Chicago. In his late twenties, he took up creative writing as a serious pastime with the intention of eventually making it his career. This goal has been elusive, but failure is not an option. In 2001, his wife gave birth to triplet boys. People often ask him how he still finds time to write. In 2009, he began the Gray Spear Society series, and he hopes it will be his key to literary fame.

Author Links


Purchase Links

Amazon


Giveaway
$10 Amazon Gift Card


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Friday, March 20, 2015

Blog Tour: Four Rubbings by @JenniferLHotes with a #review & #giveaway



Young Adult Paranormal Thriller
Date Published: August 2013


Halloween.
The night the barrier between the dead and the living is as thin as muslin. Fourteen-year old Josie, haunted by the death of her mother, leads her best friends to an ancient cemetery to rub graves. Convinced she will come away with proof of her mother’s spirit at last, the evening takes an unexpected turn as the teens gravitate four ways into the haunted grounds.
Set against the backdrop of the rainy Pacific Northwest, four graves will be rubbed, touching off a series of events that will rattle their once mundane lives. From the lonely World War II hero to an accused witch, the people buried beneath the stones have stories that need an ending.

The journey to unravel the mysteries leaves the friends wondering if the graves would’ve been better off left alone.







Review 

What an exciting and unique premise for a Young Adult Paranormal Novel that includes plenty of mystery and suspense. 

First of all, that blurb completely drew me in. I was pleasantly surprised by the way Jennifer L. Hotes was able to keep me on my toes. 

I  love reading thrillers and trying to figure out what could possibly come next. 

 I'll have to admit, I was surprised in a couple of places throughout the novel. A Great Suspense/Thriller with Paranormal bits and perfect for the Young Adult Reader.






Encouraged by her mother-in-law, Elizabeth A. Hotes, who told her to create something and share it with others, Jennifer writes and illustrates to keep her memory alive.
To date, Jennifer’s favorite medium is pen and ink, but she also loves to paint a wall or canvas.
Her works have been featured at benefit art auctions, adorned the walls of public spaces, graced  homes and enhanced books with vibrant covers and internal illustrations.
Four Rubbings is Jennifer’s first novel, though she’s busy writing the second book in the Stone Witch Weries presently. Four Rubbings is great for readers that enjoyed the Harry Potter series, and has been a fun book club pick across the country. The author loves Skyping into book clubs, so email her and ask – she may just surprise you with a cyber visit!





Thursday, March 19, 2015

Blog Tour: Blind Confession by @violettarand #review



Historical Romance
Date Published: February 25, 2015


A heart closed to love ...

Abandoned by the woman he loved, Captain Marteinn wants to escape his misery by winning the summer games in Lagenheim. The champion is entitled to ask one favor from the jarl and he’s prepared to request his freedom.

A woman desperate for passion ...

Taken to Scandinavia after the Normans invaded England, Mercia works hard to prove her loyalty to the Vikings. Despite multiple offers of marriage, she fears she’ll never find true love. Until she meets a brooding warrior, who ignites a hidden passion she can’t ignore.

Purchase Link
Review

Oh Boy, I'm a sucker for Historical Romance. There is something so fun about being transported back in time and feeling like your living in a different era if an author can execute it well, its an even better escape than reading Contemporary. 

My favorite thing about this novel was the characters. They were multi dimensional and we really got a good background on them to allow us to understand their characters. I loved the fact that their relationship was balanced by each of their characteristics and experiences. They really complemented each other well. It was a beautiful romance.


Raised in Corpus Christi, Texas, Violetta Rand spent her childhood reading, writing, and playing soccer. After meeting her husband in New England, they moved to Alaska where she studied environmental science and policy as an undergraduate before attending graduate school. Violetta then spent nearly a decade working as an environmental scientist, specializing in soil and water contamination and environmental assessments.
Violetta still lives in Anchorage, Alaska and spends her days writing evocative New Adult romance and historical romance. When she’s not reading, writing, or editing, she enjoys time with her husband, pets, and friends. In her free time, she loves to hike, fish, and ride motorcycles and 4-wheelers.