Dec 3rd FB/Author Giveaway List!

Hi all!
I just wanted to remind you of my up coming facebook event on Dec 3rd (http://www.facebook.com/events/177994762338853/. It's going to be the Paranormal and Horror Lovers Goodreads Trivian Giveaway. I have many authors giving away books so I though t you might like a list. Here goes:

The Undeparted-Deborah Palumbo
Bedtime Shadows-Tara Fox Hall
The Chalet-Tara Fox Hall
3-Death Lily- Rebecca Nolan
2-Dead of Eve-Pam Goodwin
Bound-Lee Taylor
Phoenix Rising #1- Lisa C. Morgan
Phoenix Burning #2- Lisa C. Morgan
Pocketful of Fear-Joseph Rubas
Our Forbidden Love-Branda Hastings
Oobers-Jay T. Harding
Supernova #1-Crystal Ward
Tsunami #2- Crystal Ward
Headwind #3- Crystal Ward
The Thorn of Death-Firefly & Wisp Publishing
13 Tales of the Paranormal-J.B, Sullivan, Jo-Anne McCleary, Heather Greenhalgh, Caithlin Mccoll, Roy Hudson, Stephen De Marino, Rebecca Nolan, Dawn Kirby, Susan Harris, Jana Boskey, Theresa Oliver, J.S. Wilsoncroft
The Vampire Queen-Jodie Pierce
The Reluctant Vampire-Jodie Pierce

There are your susperstars people. They will be donating books for my event so go check them out and thank them.
Thanks all!
Keep Reading & Writing!
Jodie Pierce

Allison Merritt Author Interview!

Hi all!
 Please help me welcome Allison Merritt to my blog today:

Here are her interview Q & A's which I'm sure you'll find interesting. Check it out!

Tell me a bit about yourself:

I’ve always been a serious reader, so it comes as no surprise to anyone who knows me that I wanted to be an author as well. I’m from the Ozark Mountains in Missouri where I live with my husband and our dogs. Hiking and photography are two of my passions besides writing.

What type of genre do you write?

Currently I'm writing historical fantasy/steampunk romance.

What genre to you personally read?

I prefer romance, but I also enjoy western, mainstream fiction, YA, and some horror.

Tell me about your latest book:

The Sky Pirate's Wife is the second book in the Legends and Lovers Series.

After a tragic airship wreck, Captain Alwin van Buren makes a drastic decision to obtain a wealthy bride in order to save his flagging business. He meets his match in Sophie Barnes, heiress to an airship empire. After he seduces her and ensures their marriage—igniting a rivalry with her godfather—he learns the green-eyed beauty is as headstrong as he is.

Sophie knows Van Buren's reputation based on a series of dime novels written about his adventures. Determined to be more than an end to a means, she despises him for luring her into marriage. In fiction, he's a no-nonsense captain on the verge of piracy, but the flesh-and-blood man wins her heart by proving she's worth more to him than her money.

Their love is threatened when Sophie learns Van Buren's airship accident was a result of mythical creatures. Winged predators that appear to have a grudge against him, a fact he deliberately hid by accusing her godfather of sabotage. If she can forgive him for that, they still have to face the danger when they're cornered and at the mercy of beasts and the evil that controls them.

Where is your book available?

B&N http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-sky-pirates-wife-allison-merritt/1112878533?ean=2940015701098

Amazon http://www.amazon.com/Pirates-steampunk-romance-Legends-ebook/dp/B008UUYNQO/ref=pd_rhf_gw_p_t_3

Where you live and one thing you love about it

I live in southwestern Missouri. My favorite thing about is our nature and the history of the area. We have a lot of parks, conservation areas, and a national Civil War battlefield. The area is really beautiful.

Website:

http://havenovelwilledit.blogspot.com

What sparked your passion for books and the art of a good story?

My parents encouraged me by reading to me when I was young. I learned that books were a good source of entertainment and could take you out this world and into another one.

Is there a particular book that changed or affected your life in a big way?

Around the time I was a teenager, I read Harold Bell Wright's The Shepherd of the Hills, which is set in Missouri during the early 20^th century. It's a great book, full of romance, adventure, mystery, and suspense. It really impressed me. Louis L'Amour westerns also shaped the way I write. His descriptions of the West and his characters make me see the world the way it was in the 1800s.

What was the seed of inspiration for your latest book?

I got interested in mythology when I was in college. Lately I've taken to exploring more Native American mythology. There are so many interesting legends that anyone could write about. In The Sky Pirate's Wife, I've taken the legend about thunderbirds, these huge cryptoid birds that people still report seeing, and molded them into a weapon to be used against the hero of the novel.

Is there a message in your book that you want readers to grasp?

The Sky Pirate's Wife is about a man who starts out too selfish to reach out for love. When he marries an heiress to save his business, he discovers that love is real and in the end, he's willing to sacrifice everything for her safety. I like to think that love is one of the greatest forces on the planet and it's a universal feeling, so everyone understands it. Love changes things.

What challenges have you faced in your writing career?

As a self-published author, I've stumbled over a few roadblocks and trials. I do everything from cover design to setting up formatting for both e-books and paperback. When I made the decision to self-publish last year, I had no idea where to start. There's so much information out there about it, it can be difficult to sort through it all and figure out what's relevant to me and my books. And it's not just formatting issues and making sure the edits are correct. There's no support for marketing like traditionally published authors usually receive. Formatting and covers eventually get finished, but marketing is something that has to be done frequently. It can get very tiring fast.

What has been your best moment as a writer?

There are a lot of good moments. Most recently it's a toss up between finishing the third book in my series and seeing the proof copy of my second book in paperback. Of course, there's also the thrill of selling a paperback to a person in front of you and signing it to them. Amazing.

Who is your author idol?

Linda Lael Miller has been one of my favorite romance authors since I read the Springwater Series. She's the reason I love historical romance novels.

Do you see yourself in any of your characters?

The characters from the Legends and Lovers Series are always faced with challenges that force them to go beyond the limits they think they have. When I started seriously writing in 2009, I never imagined I'd be able to sit down and write an 80,000 word novel. It's the characters that have led me on and inspired me to finish their stories.

Do you feel like your dream has come true or is there much more to do?

Both. I never intended to write a series. The first book in the series was written just for fun as a novella, but as I added more to it and realized I wanted it published, it grew into a bunch of characters clamoring for their own stories. I plan to release the third book in April 2013, but I intend on having five novels total in this series, so I still have plenty of work to do to get that finished.

What is your personal cure for procrastination?

I participated in two NaNoWriMo events where I managed to “win” with 50,000 words. I learned that writing consistently, even if it doesn't seem very good, is important for accomplishing goals. To really get down to business, I like to turn the TV off, pop my earbuds in, turn on either the radio or my music list, and block out the world so I can get involved with the characters and their story.

What does your workspace look like?

Messy! I'm not very organized at all. I have stacks of papers, books, and various odds and ends laying around. That's my type B personality going crazy. I can very easily ignore debris when I'm focusing on the story.

Have you ever had a day when you just wanted to quit?

I think most writers go through that. One day when I took the first chapter of my first novel to my writer's group critique and it was met with dead silence after I finished reading it, I got a very bad feeling in my stomach. When you're surrounded by a talented group of people, you start thinking you don't have what it takes. All it took though, was rewriting that chapter three times. I eventually got it right. During the process of learning formatting, I had days where I was sure I was making a mistake. And there are months when sales aren't the best no matter what kind of advertising and marketing I do. I've gotten over that though, because I've learned that everyone has off months.

What do you do when you’re not writing?

I love walking and taking photographs of nature. Sometimes I get some pretty pictures. During the winter when it's too cold to do much, I'm usually found sitting in my chair watching DVDs and reading. I'm lucky enough to have a day job as a card cataloger, so I get all the new releases before anyone else in the library. I also have a husband and a dog to keep me entertained.

What are the most important attributes to remaining sane as a writer?

Never taking criticism personally. Or if you decide to take it personally, then make sure you use it to turn yourself around. If someone says you can't do something, or you're wrong for making a decision (self-publishing, for instance), stand by your convictions. It's important not to let others get you down and never, ever listen to self-doubt. Some doubts are necessary to make you learn to be better.

What was the greatest thing you learned at school?

That I'm terrible at math, the cooler your car, the better your social status is, and that you should never stop learning. I enjoyed most aspects of school from history to English and even got into science. I particularly loved agriculture studies. Learning new things makes me feel good about myself, so I try to keep that up.

Did you have a moment when you realised you were meant to be a writer?

I've been writing for a long time. There was a time when I took a break, didn't do any writing, but in late 2008 I decided to try writing another novel. I've been at it since then, writing historical romance and historical fantasy romance. I was hugely surprised in 2009 when I got second place in the first writing contest I'd entered in years. That's the kind of thing that keeps you going and makes you want to get better and better.

What advice would you give to aspiring authors?

Join critique groups, make friends with writers, read, read, read. Follow agents and publishers and write what you love. Take the criticism and use it to make yourself better.

After this book, what is next?

I'm editing the third book in the series now, working on the fourth, and I have an idea for the fifth in mind. After that I've got an idea for a paranormal historical romance series about brothers. I'm looking forward to starting that. It should definitely keep me busy for the next couple of years.

What a great interview! Please thank her for joining us today! She can be found at the below addresses: 

http://havenovelwilledit.blogspot.com/

https://www.facebook.com/allisonmwrites

https://twitter.com/allison_merritt

The Sky Pirate's Wife: 

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Pirates-steampunk-romance-Legends-ebook/dp/B008UUYNQO/ref=pd_rhf_gw_p_t_3

Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-sky-pirates-wife-allison-merritt/1112878533?ean=2940015701098

Go check out her and her book. Leave a comment on her blog and let her know you've been there!

The Blog Tour Dates Are Here!

Hi all!

So here it is! My book blog tour! I have listed below the tentative schedule of my appearances on others’ blogs. Please stop by, take a read and leave a comment so I know you’ve joined me. Hope to see you all there!

Here goes:

NOW                    www.tbxebooks.com/search?q=Jodie+pierce&x=0&y=0

NOW                    http://askdavid.com/reviews/book/paranormal-romance/2551#websites

11/23    Dorothy Dreyer                 www.we-do-write.blogspot.com

11/25    Liliana Soare                      www.lilianasoare.blogspot.com.au

11/26    Mia Darien                         www.miadarien.com

11/27    Evan Bollinger                   www.meandermin.blogspot.com

11/30   Coffeetime Romance          www.groups/yahoo.com/groups/karendevinkaren
12/1       Robert Haddad                  www.survive2012intwoweeks.com

12/4       Mae Clair                            www.maeclair.net/2012/12/04/mae-clairs-wizards-with-words-jodie-pierce

12/4       Olga Nunez Miret             www.olganm.wordpress.com

12/5       Kayla S.                               www.theramblingsofatoddlersmom.blogspot.com

12/6       Deborah Palumbo            www.deborahpalumbotheundeparted.blogspot.com

12/7      Alesha Escobar                 www.aleshaescobar.com/feature-friday-demise-of-the-vampire-queen
12/8       Karen Smith                       www.broad-mindedbooks.blogspot.com   The Vampire Queen-giveaway

12/9      Julia Walker                       www.juliahughes.co.uk
12/11    Elodie Parkes                     www.elodieparkes.blogspot.com

12/14    Stacy Eaton                        www.stacyeatonauthor.blogspot.com

12/15    Karen Smith                       www.broad-mindedbooks.blogspot.com   The Vampire Chronicles

12/17    Teicha Mailhes                  www.valloryv.wordpress.com

12/17-12/22 Paige Bleu                 www.paigebleu.blogspot.com  Check back daily for something new!

12/18    Chris Redding                    www.chrisreddingauthor.blogspot.com

12/19    tallis Piaget                         www.blackboogiemen.authorsxpress.com
12/20    Carin Walker                      www.4myreadingobsession.blogspot.com

12/21    Theodora Kostova            www.theodorakostova.blogspot.com  (book giveaway)

12/21    Catalina Egan                    www.thebridgeofdeath.com  If the future does not end, plans for the future-giveaways!

12/22    Karen Smith                       www.broad-mindedbooks.blogspot.com  Demise of the Vampire Queen

12/24  Vampire Book Realm          www.vampirebookrealm.com
12/26    Tessa Stokes                      www.the-ruthin-trilogy.blogspot.com

12/27    Evan Bollinger                   www.meandermin.blogspot.com

12/28    Karen Docter                     www.karendocter.com/blog

12/29    M.M. Frye                          www.melissamfrye.com/missywrites/

12/30    Dark Wispers Podcast      http://www.facebook.com/notes/dark-wispers/dark-wispers-podcast-guest-list/517539444925464?comment_id=6248396&notif_t=note_reply  7pm est

So come join me, check out these fabulous websites, leave comments on interviews and buy a book or two! Thanks all!

Keep Reading!

Jodie Pierce

Tessa Stokes Author Interview

Hi all!
 I just wanted to introduce to you to the fabulous Tessa Stokes. She is a great author and has some great interview answers. Her newest book, The Ruthin Trilogy book three has just come out and is selling like hotcakes.

Here are her interview questions:

Tell me a bit about yourself:

I was born in the United Kingdom but after graduating from uni I travelled around quite a bit for my work. I’ve lived in various places in the world, North Africa, Europe, Australia, but now I am home again in England. I live in the countryside and enjoy the history and places there.

What type of genre do you write?

I write urban fantasy romance, paranormal romance books.

What genre to you personally read?

I read everything (LOL) many genres, recently not as much as I would like to as I am writing two books.

Tell me about your latest?

I recently released second editions of my vampire urban fantasy with new edits and extra scenes, plus new covers. The Ruthin Trilogy book three is currently one of the books I am working on.

Where is your book available?

All Romance and Amazon Kindle

Website: http://the-ruthin-trilogy.blogspot.com

What sparked your passion for books and the art of a good story?

I can’t remember but I have been reading from a very early age and always loved books and stories. I use books as an escape.

Is there a particular book that changed or affected your life in a big way?

Not really.

What was the seed of inspiration for your latest book?

An old abbey I visited in a very old town in England. I thought of the characters as I sat in a nearby café.

Everything was so atmospheric and the story just unfolded there.

Is there a message in your book that you want readers to grasp?

No real message. I write about love and loneliness, what it feels like to be alone in the world.

What challenges have you faced in your writing career?

Marketing (LOL) it’s the bête noir of all writers I think because it’s so time consuming and random. Finding the place where your readers might find you is mission impossible.

Do you see yourself in any of your characters?

I think a different little piece of me is in each of my characters, but then again who knows really.

What is your personal cure for procrastination?

I find I don’t procrastinate there’s so much to do.

What does your workspace look like?

It’s utilitarian, but I work by a big window with a rural view so that’s great.

What do you do when you’re not writing?

Work (LOL) sometimes I get to sleep and eat.

What are the most important attributes to remaining sane as a writer?

I have no idea. I guess resilience is, or an ability to bounce back from all the disappointments.

What was the greatest thing you learned at school?

To continue to learn all through life.

Did you have a moment when you realised you were meant to be a writer

When I was about eight and I couldn’t stop writing a story at school, then at ten pages the teacher said I had to stop.

What advice would you give to aspiring authors?

Just write from the heart.

After this book, what is next?

The Ruthin Trilogy book three is my current WIP and also a stand alone romance.

Here's a little about the author and some short excerpts from her books:

Tell me a bit about yourself:

I was born in the United Kingdom but after graduating from uni I travelled around quite a bit for my work. I’ve lived in various places in the world, North Africa, Europe, Australia, but now I am home again in England. I live in the countryside and enjoy the history and places there.

What type of genre do you write?

I write urban fantasy romance, paranormal romance books.

What genre to you personally read?

I read everything (LOL) many genres, recently not as much as I would like to as I am writing two books.

Tell me about your latest?

I recently released second editions of my vampire urban fantasy with new edits and extra scenes, plus new covers. The Ruthin Trilogy book three is currently one of the books I am working on.

Where is your book available?

All Romance and Amazon Kindle

Website: http://the-ruthin-trilogy.blogspot.com

What sparked your passion for books and the art of a good story?

I can’t remember but I have been reading from a very early age and always loved books and stories. I use books as an escape.

Is there a particular book that changed or affected your life in a big way?

Not really.

What was the seed of inspiration for your latest book?

An old abbey I visited in a very old town in England. I thought of the characters as I sat in a nearby café.

Everything was so atmospheric and the story just unfolded there.

Is there a message in your book that you want readers to grasp?

No real message. I write about love and loneliness, what it feels like to be alone in the world.

What challenges have you faced in your writing career?

Marketing (LOL) it’s the bête noir of all writers I think because it’s so time consuming and random. Finding the place where your readers might find you is mission impossible.

Do you see yourself in any of your characters?

I think a different little piece of me is in each of my characters, but then again who knows really.

What is your personal cure for procrastination?

I find I don’t procrastinate there’s so much to do.

What does your workspace look like?

It’s utilitarian, but I work by a big window with a rural view so that’s great.

What do you do when you’re not writing?

Work (LOL) sometimes I get to sleep and eat.

What are the most important attributes to remaining sane as a writer?

I have no idea. I guess resilience is, or an ability to bounce back from all the disappointments.

What was the greatest thing you learned at school?

To continue to learn all through life.

Did you have a moment when you realised you were meant to be a writer

When I was about eight and I couldn’t stop writing a story at school, then at ten pages the teacher said I had to stop.

What advice would you give to aspiring authors?

Just write from the heart.

After this book, what is next?

The Ruthin Trilogy book three is my current WIP and also a stand alone romance.

Check her out on her website and leave a comment so she knows you've been there. Check out her books on amazon! Good luck Tessa and thanks for joining us!

Online interviews!

Hi all!
I'm still putting together my blog tour (should have dates up this weekend) but I have 2 appearances in the next two days promoting my newest book, Demise of the Vampire Queen. Here's where you can find me:
11/14 Allison Merritt's blog: http://havenovelwilledit.blogspot.com/2012/11/author-interview-jodie-pierce.html
11/15 K.F. Johnson's blog: http://www.kfjohnson.wordpress.com

Please go check me out and see the interview's! Let me know what you think!

Keep Writing & Reading!
Jodie Pierce

Evan Bollinger Author Interview

Hi all!
So, please help me welcome Evan Bollinger promoting his book The Followers to my blog.

He's a very interesting author and person and very kind. He's been great so please check out his interview:

Tell me a bit about yourself:

I’m easy going but hard to get to know. When not writing, I enjoy running, reading, and making up words. I’m a huge fan of dry comedy/satire, and I love a good Lager. I prefer dogs over cats, tea over coffee, and have been known to wear pajama pants in most public places. Oh, and I like the smell of gasoline…

What type of genre do you write?

I try to dabble, but I think my strength might be horror and suspense. I like to immerse myself in the senses of a world before moving along with the plot.

What genre to you personally read?

Personally, I’ve read everything from metaphysics to erotica. I want to experience all the genres, but I typically gravitate toward fantasy, horror and suspense. I read what I read, write what I read. Usually some kind of fiction (with shock value) is my go-to.

Tell me about your latest?

The Followers is a horror/mystery/suspense hybrid. It’s a novella that traces the psychological boundaries of everyday life, and introduces some especially eerie beings…

Where is your book available?

My book is available on Amazon here: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007OYPOL0/ref=s9_simh_gw_p351_d0_i1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=1YVWJGDAF71N5VXSJ7RW&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=1389517282&pf_rd_i=507846

Where you live and one thing you love about it

I live in Maryland. Firstly, I love the crabs and Old Bay seasoning—nothing like it! I also love the rural nature of my home. There are plenty of rolling hills and trees and quiet streams—it’s a great place to go running, playing, or simply to clear your mind.

Website:

http://meandermin.blogspot.com/

What sparked your passion for books and the art of a good story?

Books are about turning a blind eye to your issues and letting your mind’s eye roam free. They’re about escape, and alteration—books bring us into our own minds and sometimes into those of others. I think that a good story is like looking through a window into another realm. Because I’ve always been a space cadet, reading and writing books seemed like a natural progression. A good story is hard to touch—and even harder to define. But somehow, somewhere, you know what it is.

Is there a particular book that changed or affected your life in a big way?

50 Shades of Grey. Just kidding… I would have to say the Hobbit. I read it when I was young, and the vastness and complexity of Tolkien’s world just blew my mind. Honestly, I can remember looking at farmland around me and thinking I was in The Shire, and wishing that little people with hairy feet would just pop up out of the ground. Tolkien was genius.

What was the seed of inspiration for your latest book?

The Followers is the nexus of many ideas. There's nostalgia for the freedom of youth, anguish, fantasy, and the dark underbelly of even life's smallest moments. I wanted to incorporate thoughts of life's meaning and structure--of the Multiverse. I wanted elements of horror, and the intrigue of beings that we have never seen, that we may not comprehend when we do.

Is there a message in your book that you want readers to grasp?

The Followers is a lot of different things for a lot of different reasons. I don't think it has the same meaning for any one person. And it shouldn't. If anything, I guess people should just realize that everything goes so much deeper than we think. That our world, our reality, could instantly change.

What challenges have you faced in your writing career?

The challenge of self-promotion and marketing is a big one. Finding your audience, having the confidence to really sell yourself and beef yourself up and act like you’ve got the big bad books that everybody wants. Alright, alright... that’s a slight exaggeration—but you get the idea. 

What has been your best moment as a writer?

My stories are always seen first in a snapshot. I typically have a dream, and then that dream becomes the first scene of the book. It’s awesome. That moment is that dream. I used to do nothing with my dreams. Now I try to channel them.

Who is your author idol?

I honestly can’t pick one. I idolize authors like Camus and Salinger. I like existentialism and I also love Stephen King and Bradbury and Puzo. I idolize big-time authors who can sell out their eyeballs. But then again, I like the smaller guys who have ‘niche’ markets. So not really sure if I answered the question…

Do you see yourself in any of your characters?

There’s a little bit of me in all my characters. There’s also a little bit of everybody I’ve ever met and remembered. Whether consciously or unconsciously.

Do you feel like your dream has come true or is there much more to do?

Oh no, I’m still chasing the dream. Maybe one day I’ll catch it.

What is your personal cure for procrastination?

Running. I go out, I sweat, I get tired, I come back, and I try to get done what I have to get done. Sometimes, a nice long shower can help. Or a bowl of ice cream.

What does your workspace look like?

Extremely disorganized. I was actually recognized as having the messiest binder in high school. For some reason I’m proud of this.

Have you ever had a day when you just wanted to quit?

Sure… and these days can lead to a pattern of negative thoughts. You just gotta break the pattern before it becomes engrained. We’re all human so why shouldn’t we feel like poop every now and again? The thing is giving yourself a break, giving yourself that time, and coming back recharged. Sometimes, you just need a cold beer.

What do you do when you’re not writing?

I watch people from afar and judge them. Well not really, but I do like to people-watch. I like to watch Family Guy, South Park, shows about nothing, and I also enjoy a quality banana split sundae. I occasionally do odd jobs when not working in the school system.

What are the most important attributes to remaining sane as a writer?

I guess a lot of writers are a little insane, but to keep themselves productive, it’s good for them to have short term goals. I think it helps to expect something reasonable, then work from there. We all want to be best-selling, but it’s one thing to sit around dreaming about it and it’s another thing to take the million small steady steps to maybe one day get there.

What was the greatest thing you learned at school?

I went to Middle School in a very rural area—big on agriculture. In order to pass the required Agriscience class, we had to take a tractor-driving test. The day I was scheduled to weave in and out of these three little cones, it snowed. It snowed hard.

My run was cancelled and I never got rescheduled. It was then that I learned, without a doubt, that snow and I would have a long lasting relationship.

Did you have a moment when you realised you were meant to be a writer

There was never a single moment. I was always pretty good at writing papers in school—and was a huge procrastinator about it. My family and friends and teachers have always told me I have talent. I’ve done my best to take that to heart, while staying grounded. I believe I still have a lot of work to go. Which is exciting.

What advice would you give to aspiring authors?

Stay the grind. Expose yourself on all the blogs, networks, websites—just keep putting your name out there. It’s important to view everything as part of a process. Never isolate any one success or failure—allow everything to inform your creative process.

After this book, what is next?

I’m currently seeking a publisher for my first full-length scifi/horror novel. It’s a pretty cool story called Marin’s Dale, and part of it can be found at Wattpad.com.

You can find Evan at the following locations:

http://meandermin.blogspot.com/

Your blog?

http://meandermin.blogspot.com/

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5814906.Evan_Bollinger

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/The-Followers-ebook/dp/B007OYPOL0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1352513811&sr=8-1&keywords=evan+bollinger

Twitter: https://twitter.com/EBallzz

Please thank Evan for joining us today and check out his new book The Followers!
Keep Reading!
Jodie Pierce

Airicka Phoenix & Touching Eternity

Hi all!
Please join me in welcoming Airicka Phoenix and her book Touching Eternity:

Tell me a bit about yourself:

My name is Airicka Phoenix. I’m the mother of four. I write Young Adult Paranormal Romance. I’m an advocator of chocolate, shoes and books (not necessarily in that order). I’m a closet nail biter and have a strong hatred for any red foods. I’m a night owl and may or may not be addicted to Facebook. I love bad jokes, hot chocolate and shiny things.

What type of genre do you write?

Paranormal Romance (YA)

What genre to you personally read?

Anything Young Adult (Paranormal is a bonus) but always romance.

Tell me about your latest book Touching Eternity and the two main characters Amalie & Isaiah:

I have to answer this one by insisting that Touching Smoke must be read first in order for Touching Eternity to be understood.

Touching Eternity is the story of Amalie. She was the foundation on which Fallon was created. It was her love for Isaiah that condemned her to what happens in Touching Smoke.

Amalie is Garrison’s daughter and a prisoner. She has never been outside gates of her home. She is never allowed to meet another living soul. Her entire life has been a series of tests, each one more barbaric than the last, because Amalie is crazy, or so she’s told. Because Amalie sees things, impossible things. When she meets eight-year-old Isaiah, he’s there to replace her as Garrison’s heir. Their childhood friendships blossom into a love neither of them ever dreamed of. But their fates change when Isaiah leaves and Amalie’s life becomes a nightmare of torture.

Isaiah was an orphan scrounging through trash for his next meal when Garrison found him and brought him home. He was given every comfort a child with nothing could ever want, except the girl he loves. Amalie is off limits. He isn’t allowed to want her. She’s crazy, he’s told. But he has never wanted anyone, loved any one half as much as he loves the girl with red hair and sad blue eyes. When Isaiah returns after deciding his love was hurting Amalie more than helping her, Amalie is a broken shell of the girl he’d left behind and he swears he will do everything in his power to protect her, to take her away from the cruel clutches of her father, even if he owes Garrison his life.

Where is your book available?

At this time, only <a href=” http://www.amazon.com/Touching-Smoke-Touch-Series-ebook/dp/B008RB72NW”>Touching Smoke</a> is available both in eBook & <a href=” http://www.lulu.com/shop/airicka-phoenix/touching-smoke/paperback/product-20475073.html”>Paperback</a>. Touching Eternity will be released Dec 20, 2012.

Where you live and one thing you love about it

I live in British Columbia, Canada and it’s hard to pick one thing that I love when I love everything, but I think I love how green everything is. It’s very beautiful here.

Website:

http://airickaphoenix.com/Author/?cat=10

What sparked your passion for books and the art of a good story?

I had to write a short story for 3^rd grade. We had to use pictures to describe what was happening and put words underneath. I rewrote Beauty and the Beast. I never stopped writing ever since. But more than that, my passion came from my mom always making up stories. She never read me a book, but would spend hours telling me stories of adventure and danger and romance.

Is there a particular book that changed or affected your life in a big way?

No, not a book. But my mother’s stories are the ones I remember with absolute clarity.

What was the seed of inspiration for your latest book?

I was actually working on The Hunter Series, which will be released spring, 2013 and there’s a part where Clara is fighting a demon when she thinks she sees vapours from the corner of her eyes. That’s all it took for Amalie to waltz into my mind and refuse to be ignored.

Is there a message in your book that you want readers to grasp?

That you’re never alone. That you can always change things. That giving up is never an option and never should be. You’re strong.

What challenges have you faced in your writing career?

Finding time for family, work, writing and promoting.

What has been your best moment as a writer?

Meeting and helping new authors.

Who is your author idol?

Stephen King.

Do you see yourself in any of your characters?

I do with Fallon. She shares my stubbornness, my sarcasm. But with Amalie, she’s my polar opposite, but I think she possesses my ability to hold a grudge. Lol.

Do you feel like your dream has come true or is there much more to do?

Oh I think there is still so much still left to go, but every day I seem to get a little closer, so…

What is your personal cure for procrastination?

My husband. He’s always berating me about goofing around. Get that book done, Airicka. Stop Facebooking! That chapter won’t write itself. If he’s not around, it’s my conscience, which has his voice. LMAO.

What does your workspace look like?

I have everything within reaching distance. To some, it may seem cluttered and disorganized, but I know where everything is.

Have you ever had a day when you just wanted to quit?

Never! I am so anti-quitting. I don’t believe in it at all. That word doesn’t exist to me.

What do you do when you’re not writing?

I crawl into whatever adventure my kids are having. They have the most incredible imaginations and I just love playing whatever game they’re playing. Or I’m reading.

What are the most important attributes to remaining sane as a writer?

Let your characters run the show. They’ll drive you nuts if you don’t and usually, in my case anyway, they’re always right.

What was the greatest thing you learned at school?

That there is a whole world after it, bigger and better than what we’re taught.

Did you have a moment when you realised you were meant to be a writer

LOL. No! That moment has not yet come. I’m still wondering every day if this was the good idea or not.

What advice would you give to aspiring authors?

The greatest crime you could ever committee against yourself is to quit on your dreams.

After this book, what is next?

I have several short stories coming out, but I will also be releasing The Hunter Series. So you will meet Clara and Darius and their adventures into the world of monsters, demons and forbidden kisses.

Thank you so much for having me visit your blog. I had so much fun meeting you and your lovely readers. I hope we can do it again! <3

Please thank Airicka Phoenix for joining us and wish her well on her new book!

Dorothy Dreyer Author Interview!

Hello all!
Please help me welcome with wonderfully talented Dorothy Dreyer!

She is a very interesting person and has a great wealth of knowledge to be shared with us all. Check out my interview with her below:

Tell me a bit about yourself:

I’ve been married almost 19 years, have a teen daughter and a preteen son, and I’m living abroad in Germany. In addition to writing, I currently work as an English teacher at a nursery school.

What type of genre do you write?

I write young adult paranormal/urban fantasy. With, like, a touch of horror.

What genre to you personally read?

Mostly young adult, but not necessarily paranormal. Dystopian is great too, and I’ve read a couple great contemporaries as well. As for adult books, they really need to be page-turners so I don’t give up on them.

Tell me about your book.

Here’s the blurb from the back of the book:

Sixteen-year-old Zadie’s first mistake was telling the boy she liked she could bring her dead sister back to life. Her second mistake was actually doing it.

When Zadie accidentally messes with the Reaper’s Rite that should have claimed her sister Mara, things go horribly wrong. Mara isn’t the same anymore—Zadie isn’t even sure she’s completely human. To top it off, a Reaper is determined to collect Mara's soul. Now Zadie must figure out how to defeat her sister’s Reaper or let Mara die … this time for good.

Where is your book available?

It’s up for pre-order at Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/my-sisters-reaper-dorothy-dreyer/1109686823?fb_action_ids=10151174941038006&fb_action_types=og.likes&fb_source=aggregation&fb_aggregation_id=288381481237582

And it should be available for pre-order from Amazon early next year.

It’s also on Goodreads, so be sure to mark it to-read! http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13597733-my-sister-s-reaper

Where you live and one thing you love about it.

Germany can be very beautiful. Love all the cool castles and old churches.

Website: My official site is http://www.dorothydreyer.com/

And my Facebook Fan Page is http://www.facebook.com/AuthorDorothyDreyer

You can also find me on twitter at http://www.twitter.com/DorothyDreyer

What sparked your passion for books and the art of a good story?

I’ve loved telling stories ever since I was young. I used to draw pictures of some random girl, then make up a story about her. This evolved into a passion for not only writing stories but reading them.

Is there a particular book that changed or affected your life in a big way?

Harry Potter, for sure. The way the world accepted this “children’s book” and the way it became such a huge pop culture phenomenon gave me hope that telling stories directed at younger people was a goal worth reaching for.

What was the seed of inspiration for your latest book?

I get all my “seeds” in the shower, lol. It started with me thinking about what someone would do if they accidentally brought someone back to life. It pretty much took off after that.

Is there a message in your book that you want readers to grasp?

I don’t like preachy books, so no. But I do hope it gives readers some chills.

What challenges have you faced in your writing career?

Well, my first three books were turned down by many agencies. But I’ve got a thicker skin now, and I think I’m a much better writer for it.

What has been your best moment as a writer?

Signing my two-book contract for sure! But I guess when my book actually releases, that will be my favourite writer-ly moment. ;)

Who is your author idol?

So many! At the moment it’s Veronica Roth.

Do you see yourself in any of your characters?

Definitely.

Do you feel like your dream has come true or is there much more to do?

Part of my dream has come true. I just need the rest of it to fall into place.

What is your personal cure for procrastination?

Chocolate.

What does your workspace look like?

Oh man, it’s kind of messy. Paper’s everywhere. I’d love to have a nice clean space someday, in a room that has a nice view. I think that would be inspiring.

Have you ever had a day when you just wanted to quit?

All the time!

What do you do when you’re not writing?

Working, wrangling the kids, blogging, reading. Not much housework, that’s for sure, lol.

What are the most important attributes to remaining sane as a writer?

I think Neil Gaiman said it best. It’s a lengthy video, but SOOO worth it. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ikAb-NYkseI

Did you have a moment when you realised you were meant to be a writer.

The first time I finished a novel. Then I knew I could do it.

What advice would you give to aspiring authors?

See the Neil Gaiman video for one, but also, if you really want it, never give up. And for goodness sake, READ!

After this book, what is next?

I’m working on the sequel, and I’ve got another novel picking away at my brain, itching to be written. After that I’d like to revamp one of my old stories and see if I can do anything with it. 

She can be reached at:

Website: My official site is http://www.dorothydreyer.com/

And my Facebook Fan Page is http://www.facebook.com/AuthorDorothyDreyer

You can also find me on twitter at http://www.twitter.com/DorothyDrey

Go check out her book and drop her a line. I'm sure she'll appreciate it! Good luck Dorothy!

Keep Writing!

Jodie Pierce

Blog Tour!

Hi All!
Just wanted to let you know I'm putting together a blog tour for my new book, Demise of the Vampire Queen. Please contact me if you would like to book me for your blogs!

Talk to you all soon! Thanks!
Keep Reading!
Jodie Pierce

Author Jamie Marchant Interview

Hi all!
 Please help me welcome the most excellent author Jamie Marchant to my blog today. She is the author of The Goddess's Choice.

Here is her interview:

Tell me a bit about yourself:

From early childhood, I’ve been immersed in books. My mother was an avid reader and read to us, and my older sister filled my head with fairy tales. When I was about six, I started writing stories about the Man from Mars for my older sister. I devoured every book I could get my hands on, and I wrote my first fantasy  novel while in high school—not that it was publishable. Taking into consideration my love for literature and the challenges of supporting myself as a writer, I pursued a Ph.D. in American literature, which I received in 1998. I started teaching writing and literature at Auburn University and discovered the excitement of teaching. But in doing so, I put my true passion on the backburner and neglected my muse. Instead, for a few years, I wrote literary criticism. Then one day, in the midst of writing a critical piece, I realized I had no interest in doing so. What I wanted to do was write novels. My muse thus revived, I began the book that was to become The Goddess’s Choice.  I now have an entire series planned.

Now, I live in Auburn, Alabama, with my husband, son, and four cats, which, I’m told, officially makes me a cat lady. I still teach writing and literature at Auburn University.

What type of genre do you write?

I write fantasy, primarily. Mostly novels, although I’ve had short stories published in World of Myth, Bards & Sages, and Short-Story.me. They are all available for free on my website. I have an idea for a historical novel about my great-great grandmother after whom I was named, but I haven’t started it yet.

What genre do you personally read?

I mostly read fantasy, Mercedes Lackey and Jim Butcher being two of my favorite authors. Occasionally, I’ll pick up a crime drama.

Tell me about your latest book:

The novel is set in the kingdom of Korthlundia and focuses on the despised youngest son of a farmer—whom I’ve named Robbie—and Samantha, the crown princess of the realm. Half of the novel revolves Robbie’s quest to rise above his mistreatment and learn what it means to be the most powerful healer Korthlundia has seen in centuries. The other half involves Samantha, who has the ability to see auras—colors which surround everyone and reveal their character. She struggles with her own problems—by magical means, a vile duke has enslaved the mind of her beloved father, the king, to either force her into marriage or usurp her throne. The two tales become increasingly intertwined. To save their own lives and stop the realm from sinking into civil war, Robbie and Samantha must join forces and unite the people behind them.

Where is your book available?

It is available of Amazon.com and Barnesandnoble.com and directly from the publisher at Reliquarypress.com. It is also available in a couple of local bookstores in Auburn, Alabama.

Where you live and one thing you love about it

I live in Auburn, Alabama, although I come from the West. One thing I truly love about the South is the riot of the flowers in the spring. Nothing is more beautiful.

Website:

jamie-marchant.com

What sparked your passion for books and the art of a good story?

My mother read to me as a child, and as soon as I was old enough to read to myself, took us to the library every couple of weeks. She encouraged my reading and saw to it that I was always supplied with books.

Is there a particular book that changed or affected your life in a big way?

No single book, but as a teenager, the novels of Piers Anthony, Roger Zelazny, and Stephen R. Donaldson introduced me to the realms of fantasy; that has affected the direction of my reading and writing since.

What was the seed of inspiration for your latest book?

The Goddess's Choice  originates deep within my childhood. My sister Jalane--she is ten years older than me--would tell me stories, fairy tales mostly:  "Midas and His Golden Touch," "Little Red Riding Hood," "Hanzel and Gretel." But my favorite was always "The Princess and the Glass Hill" or "The Glass Mountain" as my sister titled it. I had her tell that story over and over again. I was captivated by the bold hero on his magical horses of bronze, silver, and gold. 

When I had a child of my own, I wanted to pass that fairy tale on. My son, Jesse, loved it every bit as much as I had. One day after telling it to him, it came to me that the story could be so much more than five pages and sparse details. However, I didn’t want to write a children’s story but the type of epic fantasy I enjoy as an adult. I upped the dramatic tension, villainy, and sexuality of the piece to create something far different than the original fairy tale. The Goddess’s Choice is intended for an adult audience.

Is there a message in your book that you want readers to grasp?

Yes, that anger and harboring the desire for revenge hurts you more than those you are angry at. They will suffer for their bad actions without any effort on your part, and your bitterness only warps your own soul. It is a lesson Robbie has to learn.

What challenges have you faced in your writing career?

The biggest challenge was to get away from literary criticism and back to writing fiction. Then, of course, I have faced the usual challenges of finding a publisher for my work and the much bigger challenge of promoting it.

What has been your best moment as a writer?

Putting the finishing touches on The Goddess’s Choice and being able to say that it truly was done. Either that or the email from Reliquary Press saying they wanted to publish it!

Who is your author idol?

Mercedes Lackey. I’ve always said that I wanted to be her when I grow up.

Do you see yourself in any of your characters?

I want to see myself in Samantha. She is a strong woman who knows what she wants and how to go about getting it, but I’m probably more like Blaine, Samantha’s personal secretary. He embarrasses easily and is socially awkward.

Do you feel like your dream has come true or is there much more to do?

There is more. The novel is out there, but I need to get into the hands of more readers. I also need to finish the trilogy.

What is your personal cure for procrastination?

Procrastination has never been too much of a problem for me. It produces far too much anxiety.

What does your workspace look like?

I lie back on the sofa with my laptop propped up on my knees. I hate sitting at a desk. Unfortunately, the floor around my sofa is usually littered with dishes, books, and pervious drafts of whatever I’m working on.

Have you ever had a day when you just wanted to quit?

Not really. Every since I came back to writing fiction, I’ve been so happy to be doing so that I can’t imagine not writing.

What do you do when you’re not writing?

I teach writing and literature, and I read voraciously both to myself and to my son, who as a teenager still likes to listen to me read.

What are the most important attributes to remaining sane as a writer?

I don’t know. My login name on many internet sites is maddwoman, and I fear it may not be a misnomer.

What was the greatest thing you learned at school?

The importance of reading.

Did you have a moment when you realized you were meant to be a writer?

Yes, when I was struggling with a literary criticism piece on Willa Cather. I turned from it and started writing The Goddess’s Choice. It flowed so much more easily, and I knew that was the type of writing I was meant to do.

What advice would you give to aspiring authors?

First, read a lot. You can’t be a writer without being an avid reader first. Second, don’t give up. If you’ve truly written something of worth, you will find a place for it.

After this book, what is next? More series and others.

The sequel, tentatively titled The Soul Stone, is nearly finished. Then there is the third volume of the trilogy and another book set in the same world but outside the trilogy that focuses on the character of Darhour, the captain of Samantha’s personal guard. I also have an urban fantasy novel in the works, titled The Bull Riding Witch.

I actually sat down and read her book and it was amazing! I loved everything about it! Here's my review:

The Goddess’s Choice, by Jamie Marchant was a delightful book of magic, romance, action, sorcery and corruption. Ms. Marchant weaves a story that takes twists and turns and leaves you rooting for the good side against the evil invaders. Her story of two star-crossed lovers and their journey towards each other can only be paralleled by the infamous Romeo and Juliet. She writes in a way so that the reader can actually picture each and every scene and place themselves within it. She evokes emotions from the reader, making you cheer on the ruling crowd at the end. Her wonderfully crafted story is a page turner. Leave yourself time to read it as you won’t want to put it down when you start.

When Robbie, the black haired, green eyed ‘demon’ child finds out he’s an amihealer, he pushes aside his fear of his father and brother and demand to be treated equal to a farm hand. After meeting a beautiful Lady Samantha, he dreams of one day being with her again. She is the only person that’s ever been nice to him. He learns of his true heritage and is kidnapped for his potential of healing and magic. While on the run, mystic horses appear to him and train him in the ways of his ‘destiny’. Lady Samantha, or should I say, Princess Samantha, heir to the throne sees auras of people and thinks she is going mad. She too yearns for Robbie. After Robbie and Samantha meet again, he learns who she is and he knows he will never have her. There is corruption within the palace in an attempt to marry Samantha to a man who can take over the throne with her though it is a Matriarchal society. Goddess Sulis dictates Samantha is the ruler and her betrothed is the consort but every man in the kingdom wants to be that consort. A game is arranged to help provide the consort as Samantha refuses to pick a man to marry. Will Robbie partake in that game? Will he win? Will Samantha find happiness and forced to marry someone she doesn’t love? If they find each other, how will the road to happiness be paved? With flowers or bodies? Will the corruption within the walls of the kingdom keep the Princess from her own throne? What atrocities will she have to face in the end?

Please thank her for joining us today and check out her book! You can reach her at:

Email: jamie-marchant@jamie-marchant.com

Website: http://jamie-marchant.com/

Blog: http://jamie-marchant.blogspot.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jamie-Marchant-Author/164706710298768?ref=hl

Twitter: https://twitter.com/RobrekSamantha

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5258855.Jamie_Marchant

Keep Reading!

Jodie Pierce