Fellow Ohioan Author Linda Robertson!

Hi all!

Today we have a special treat! I'm having fellow Ohioan Linda Robertson on my blog today as just one stop on her blog tour!

Here's my interview with her:

What is your name? Do you use a pen name (if so, why?)?

Hi everyone! I’m Linda Robertson. I do not use a pen name, but I have a few ideas for one if I ever decide to try one on.

Tell me a bit about yourself:

I am a mother of four boys who, in addition to writing novels, plays guitar in a rock-n-roll band that plays cover tunes from the 70’s-through today and some original songs. I have a big Rottweiler mix named for Bela Lugosi. I’ve been a graphic designer, a realtor, and a cashier everywhere from a convenience store, a gas station, smaller chain retail stores, to big mall chain stores. Currently, I tend bar two nights a week.

What type of genre do you write?

I write the Persephone Alcmedi series which is UF. I am working on two other unrelated novels which are also UF, and a super-sneaky collaboration novel that might be a bit more mainstream.

What genre to you personally read?

I’m all over the place. I love UF/Fantasy/Sci-Fi. I like research non-fiction titles, action adventure, and the occasional western.

Tell me about your latest?

SHATTERED CIRCLE is the 6th instalment in the Persephone Alcmedi series from Simon & Schuster's Pocket Books. The vampire hierarchy has taken the haven from Menessos, and transitioning it into Goliath's rule--and the plotting of the Shabubbitu--strains their relationship to the breaking point. The waerewolves are losing their den as the local Department of Transportation intends to seize it and tear it down to make way for the new highway (I placed them in a real building in Cleveland that ODOT has truly taken and torn down for their I-90 project...). As if that isn't enough for Johnny to deal with, his new assistant, Aurelia, shows herself to be a serious threat to all he holds dear. Seph’s beloved foster daughter, Beverley, has been playing with a magical artifact that’s far more dangerous than she realizes. Our heroine, named for the goddess best known for being abducted, summons help from a mystical being so potent that even vampires fear him . . . and the cost of his aid may be more than she’s willing to pay. So...Seph, Johnny, and Menessos are facing threats from all sides—and a few from within. These forces may cement their tenuous supernatural union, or shatter it forever.... 

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

I was a member of the Writer’s Digest book club and I came across this book by Donald Maass. I ended up getting the workbook that went with it and attending a seminar he gave a hundred and seventy-five  miles away from my home. He sparked my passion for the art of a good story. A little over ten years later, he became my agent. Can you say perseverance?

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

SWORD DANCER by Jennifer Roberson was the first book I ever read where the female lead was truly a swordswoman who could handle herself, had an honourable motive, and wasn’t out to get laid. She had principles. I respected her. But back then such a book could only be told from the male lead’s point of view. Ms. Roberson was slick in getting that story told. I still adore it today. After reading it I went in search of more and came up empty. That sent me down the path of writing my own stories.

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

Only that everyone, every day has choices to make about who they are, what they believe, and whether or not they will stand up and take responsibility for themselves and their own future.

What challenges have you faced in your writing career?

Time, mostly. I have a family, so trying to find the right balance of work week hours vs. productive writing hours, and still have enough to get all the bills paid. I’m either fighting to find time or make time…or giving too much. Knowing when enough is enough for one day is also a challenge.

What has been your best moment as a writer?

The day my first copies of my first book arrived in the mail was the same day my college diploma arrived. I got to stand in front of all four of my boys that evening and show them what I had accomplished. Non-traditional student, determined writer dream-come-true. Inside the cover of VICIOUS CIRCLE, the dedication is partially to my boys: “See? Dreams can come true with hard work and perseverance.”

Who is your author idol?

I don’t really have an author idol. I have several authors who I’ve met and respect very much, but none of them are idols.

Do you see yourself in any of your characters?

I’m all over them in small ways. I’m the try-to-do-the-right-thing-no-matter-what part of Persephone. I’m the rock-n-roll goofball part of Johnny. I’m the big-obscure-word-loving part of Menessos. I’m the flannel-shirt-over-thermal-underwear part of Beau. I give them all a bit of my likes, my personality, my experiences. I have to. It makes them feel real.

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

Yes, to both. My dream of being published has come true, but I’m not set in a writing career yet. There is a lot of work before me, and I intend to do it and do it well. That’s the only way I know how to honor the dream gift given me, you know?

What does your workspace look like?

My office consists of a three-level desk beside my bed. I have a tower computer with a 19 inch screen on the top level. A laptop, a netbook, AND my iphone are generally cluttering up the main level. (Can’t have too many devices to access research.) The keyboard and mouse are housed on the roll-out lower level. I have the standard lamp, but my pencil/pen holder is a large plastic CRUZAN bucket from DragonCon that was once filled with a drink called VOODOO JUICE. It said 'serves four.' I can tell you, that is a lie. :)

On the wall is various black frames with the most important writing keys in those frames. I can look up at any time and see a reminder of how to improve my work. There are also many fleur-de-lis and peacock feathers. 

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

Nope. (smiles)

What do you do when you’re not writing?

I like the Ancient Aliens tv show on the History channel. Sometimes, all those boys who call me mom will still let me hang out with them and watch movies or Big Bang Theory. And they do love it when I cook them food.

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

Thick skin. Determination. Belief in yourself.

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

When I was eight, I wrote a 'Harlequin' romance for my mom because she read so many of them. I illustrated it and even drew the little symbol on it--if I’m remembering correctly. It was about a princess who hated skirts and dresses, who was getting married to a prince. Someone shot him at the wedding so she and all her friends went off on a spaceship to catch the bad guy, and had some pizza at a space station. Somewhere between there and my teen years where I was looking for strong female characters in SF/F and finding none, I decided to write them for myself. My senior year of high school, in a creative writing class, my teacher noticed that I had some real desire to pursue writing. He was very encouraging and took some of my stories home to read on his own time and give me some feedback. I think his encouragement, that stamp of approval coming from a non-family member, really impacted me and made me feel like I could do this.

**Fast-forward to VICIOUS CIRCLE being published…after all those years, I found that teacher on facebook and arranged a meet-up at our local bookstore, where I gave him a copy of the book. It was a great day.

What advice would you give to aspiring authors?

It's more work than you know. If your skin isn’t thick, if your ego bruises easily, or if you are trying to get into writing for any reason other than the passion you have for telling a good, compelling story, then might want to look into being a gas pump attendant or cashier. (I've done both of those as well. Neither was hard on the ego or required extra-thick skin.) However, if hard work and critical thinking isn't the complete starter-set for a whine-fest to you, if you can take criticism, and if you're going to write those darn stories no matter what anybody says or thinks, then challenge yourself and master those skills.

After this book, what is next?

I’m working on two novels unrelated to this series or each other, as well as a third novel, a super-secret collaboration. The first two are UF, while the collaboration is more mainstream. I’m VERY excited about all of these projects. I want to return to Persephone ASAP, but I need to do something else for a little while.

Your website?

www.authorlindarobertson.com

Your blog?

www.word-whores.blogspot.com  I post on Wednesdays.

Other websites?

twitter:  @authorlinda

fb: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Linda-Robertson/232211130144721

GOODREADS: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2937372.Linda_Robertson

Where can your book be found?

My books can be purchased many, many ways! Available both as mass market paperbacks and as ebooks, you can find them at most major book store chains, your local indie store can order it in, or you can order it yourself via my publisher’s website: http://authors.simonandschuster.com/Linda-Robertson/63492742  or the various on-line booksellers.

Let's all thank Linda for taking the time to answer my questions and stop by. Check out her links and leave her a comment. Let her know you saw her here! Oh, an don't forget to buy her book! LOL

Keep Writing!

Jodie Pierce

Welcome Author Kristy Centeno!

Hi all!

Please help me welcome Author Kristy Centeno to my blog today! Her first book is going to be released on Jan. 23rd!

Author Bio:

As a child, I used to lose myself in an imaginary world by the means of a good book. Now that I’m all grown up, I get to create my own fictional realms and make them come to life in ways that most readers might not expect.

I’ve always had a passion for writing but never had the opportunity do so until now. After trying out numerous options I realized that writing was what I loved the most so when I found myself with some free time on my hands, I decided to give it a shot. As it turned out, my very active imagination helped me achieve my goals of creating believable plots with some ordinary, and some not so ordinary characters that helped the stories move along in one way or another.

As I keep moving along in achieving my dreams of becoming a published author, I divide my time in between my four children and my very understanding husband.​

What is your name? Do you use a pen name (if so, why?)?

Kristy Centeno. I don’t use a pen name.

Tell me a bit about yourself:

I’m a hard working mother of four and the eldest of four children. I was born in a small City in a Caribbean island some twenty something years ago and moved to the USA when I was four. I developed a love for books even before I could read them and my parents encouraged my passion by supplying a healthy amount of books, which I read often.

What type of genre do you write?

Horror, Paranormal Romance, and Young Adult.

What genre to you personally read?

Horror, Thrillers, Paranormal Romance, Erotica, Young Adult, Fantasy among others.

Tell me about your latest?

Enchanter is categorized as a Paranormal Romance and may even fit the Young Adult novel (older) category. It’s a story about two individual who carry more than their fair share of secrets and struggle to make the right choice between love and duty.

Book Blurb:

Leah Parker is furious when she finds out she’s been paired up for a class project with deadly silent, tough as nails, and incredibly intimidating Brandon Morris. Though she’s known him for years, Leah has made it a priority to stay away from him for a reason. As they are forced to spend time together however, Leah comes to find that there is more to Brandon than what meets the eye.

When a series of unexpected events forces Brandon to reveal his true identity, Leah suddenly finds herself fighting to come to terms with who he is and with the fact that by fulfilling his destiny she will come to lose the only guy she’s ever loved. As a family secret is unveiled and old threats possess new risks, they both have to find the strength to do what is expected of them. Even if that means losing each other in the process.

Love brought them together. His bloodline threatens to pull them apart. Will Brandon choose duty over love? Or will other forces far beyond their control separate them first?

Book Excerpt:

Brandon tore his lips away from mine so he could explore my neck, nipping and nibbling as he traveled the length of it. Deliberately, gently, passionately, he kissed a path down my skin and paused only when he reached my naked shoulder. “So soft,” he murmured, the hoarseness of his voice forcing my body to break out in goose bumps.

My fingers intertwined in his hair, forcing the long locks out of the black bow keeping it neatly tied at the nape of his neck. As soon as it came loose, his dark hair cascaded around his face like a curtain, making him look like some exotic creature of the night.

“Brandon…” I glanced up at his pale blue eyes, admiring the beauty of them. “Kiss me… please.”

He immediately obliged, devouring my lips with so much intensity it caused my knees to wobble. Heat, fast and powerful, spread through my body in rapid sequences as our tongues playfully toyed with each other and our bodies touched. I moaned when the feel of his strong, hard, and warm body pressed against mine. I did enjoy his masculinity and how wonderful it felt to have his hands massaging my back.

Feeling the need to explore, I untangled my fingers from his long mane and slowly allowed my hands to glide down his neck, and to his upper torso where they paused just over his pectorals. The tips of my fingers slowly slithered over his hard-as-steel chest and there they lingered for a while, exploring, touching, and feeling. Ever so slightly, they lowered to his abs, which despite the jacket and white shirt, I detected to be just as defined as the rest of him.

My greedy fingers worked their magic over Brandon, who immediately groaned and pulled away from me. His breath was ragged, his eyes filled with lust, his body language tense.

“Leah… I…”

A movement over his left shoulder caught my attention and I no longer focused on him or on what he was saying.

“Brandon, I don’t think we’re alone anymore,” I murmured as another flash of whiteness rushed from one side to the other, some ten to fifteen feet from us. It was too dark for me to determine who it was, but I was certain of one thing: we were being watched.

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

Basically, I’ve always had a passion for reading and writing. At a very early age I developed a hunger for amazing stories that captured the mind and made me want to read more and more. As soon as I learned how to write, I began to bring forth my own ideas and transforming them into stories that in my mind would do just that.

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

I couldn’t name just one because of the fact that each and every book I have read had a profound effect on me. I have read books that left me thoroughly impressed for a long time afterwards and that amazing feeling was what prompted my desire to write. Aside from writing stories that I would want to read, I wanted to inspire others to pick up one of my books and say ‘I know this is going to be good’.

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

Yes. Don’t judge a person for what they look like. There’s nothing wrong with being different or acting different as long as no one gets hurt. Respect other people and their point of views even if you don’t agree with them.

What challenges have you faced in your writing career?

I think that by biggest challenge was getting published. Before I even started sending out queries, I spent a lot of time researching company in order to know what they were looking for. It was time consuming and arduous work but it was all worth it at the end.

What has been your best moment as a writer?

Realizing my dream. Getting published.

Who is your author idol?

I have too many to name all : - )

Do you see yourself in any of your characters?

They definitely represent a part of who I am, even if it’s a very small part. For example, a character from one of my novels might like pasta, and the other might love the color blue. The color blue and pasta are two of my favourite things so I may be reflected in some form through them.

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

I believe my dream has come true because I have been able to accomplish my goal to write and get published; anything that comes as a result is only a bonus. However, I do plan to continue writing and venturing in genres I never dreamed of before.

What does your workspace look like?

It’s definitely organized but full. In order to work properly I have to have notebook, pen, Nook, and of course, my laptop. If something is missing I can’t work. Whenever I’m getting ready to write a scene I write down notes I use for reference. Music is a must for me and my Nook, which contains a long playlist, provides that for me.

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

Oh, God, yes. I have had those, and if it hadn’t been for all the emotional support I got from those around me I would have probably quit or at the very least taken a break. There are times when writing is hard work, but at the same time it’s so much fun and fulfilling that I had to keep going.

What do you do when you’re not writing?

Because I have four little ones running around most of my writing usually take place during the evening when the kids are tucked in for the night. So when I’m not writing you’ll find me cleaning, organizing, doing the laundry, dishes, cooking, or running errands.

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

I think the most important attribute is to balance your time and use your resources well. If you need a break, take a walk and relax. Don’t try to do too much in one single sitting.

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

During the time I attended college, some classmates and the teachers commented on my ability to write great essays. I realized then that if so many people were praising my work that maybe I should try for something else and I’m very glad that I did give it a shot.

What advice would you give to aspiring authors?

Don’t give up no matter how hard it gets. Do plenty of research, especially when in the process of presenting your work to a publisher. Don’t take constructive criticism personally, take the good from it and use it to your advantage. Edit and proofread the MS as much as possible before presenting the final work to the publisher. Believe in what you write and above all, have fun, enjoy yourself, and keep writing.

After this book, what is next?

Actually, I have another novel coming out on February 15, 2013. A Stranger in the Night is a paranormal romance with strong sexual content.

Author’s Website: www.kristycenteno.com

Author’s Blog: http://booksbycenteno.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/KristyCenteno

Twitter: www.twitter.com/KrissyGirl122

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/KristyCenteno

Please thank Ms. Centeno for joining us today! Check out her website, blog and Facebook pages. Leave her a comment and let her know you saw her here first! Don't forget to buy her book on January 23rd!

Keep Reading & Writing All!

Jodie Pierce

Author Debbie Martin makes a splash!

Hi all!
Please help me welcome author Debbie Martin to my blog today. She is a new type of author than I've had on my blog. She is a literary fiction author so you are going to get more of a contemporary story than the usual ghosts, vampires, werewolves, etc that you normally find here. I thought I'd open the blog up to ALL authors and she's the first. Hope you all enjoy her interview. She's very interesting!

What is your name? Do you use a pen name (if so, why?)?

I use my own name – Debbie Martin. Well, why wouldn’t I? I have to be proud of what I write I order to publish it so I stand by it and it goes under my own name.

Tell me a bit about yourself:

Almost a child of the sixties, I’ve had quite a varied – and sometimes disconcerting - life until now, but it has always been interesting!

I’m widowed and have two teenage daughters who I’ve brought up largely on my own. Sadly my husband died from cancer some while ago. My daughters are amazing – the eldest, at now 18 has just gone to Oxford University and the younger is 14, and a budding dancer. I am extremely proud of their maturity and strength of character.

Being on my own led me into trying to work out the best way of living a happy life as a singleton. About two years ago I took over a singles social business because, having tried internet dating, I had come to the conclusion that it was the worst possible way  to try to meet someone, whereas the no-pressure sociable way the business I took over approached it promoted self-esteem and  a good social life; win- win, it seemed. It is called Singles that Mingle and is still running – although ironically, with its own dating site now too because the members wanted one! It was because of this that I wrote the two other books I’ve already had published:

·        Are You The One? – a humorous look at internet dating.

·        The Strategy – ways of meeting people appropriate to you in terms of dating and sociability.

After that I got the writing bug big time, and not only was my current book, Chained Melody written but two more just waiting in the wings for all the buzz about it to settle before I publish them too!

I now also work for the University of Winchester as an event organiser for their business networking group, Wired Wessex, so I’m using my contacts and knowledge of business needs to identify speakers and workshop leaders to meet their business community needs too, which is fascinating.

           

What type of genre do you write?

All kinds actually. I would like to call Chained Melody literary fiction – but many will categorise it as LGBT. It is only because it writes about a transgender, however it is also a love story and a tale of inner courage. The next book I would like to have published is Courting the Dark, which is a psychological thriller, and after that the third novel that I have just finished the first draft is a psychological/supernatural thriller.My first two books were self-help and my daughters regularly nag me about finishing that comedy called ‘Trivett’ that I’ve written the first two chapters of …

What genre to you personally read?

Thrillers, psychological drama, literary fiction, supernatural, crime – and also I love a good classical blood and guts a-la Jacobean revenge drama style, so I still often read Marlowe, Webster and Shakespeare.

Tell me about your latest?

Chained Melody is a tale of two men’s journey from boyhood to maturity. They are best friends as children but are completely different in personality. Their lives go in extraordinarily different directions as one embraces his masculinity and the other realises his feminine side by changing his gender. Their worlds collide at a time of great personal discovery, and their feelings towards one another change dramatically too. Eventually their relationship evolves into something special and incredible against the backdrop of prejudice and their own confusing emotions but not before they’ve each had to challenge their beliefs and find their own version of inner courage.

Back cover:

'"Chaos is rejecting all you have learned, chaos is being yourself." – Emile M. Cioran

Can the fluttering of a butterfly’s wing cause such a ripple in the world, it can change lives?
Chaos theory says it can.

Even with the sexual revolution of the permissive seventies and eighties, men remained men. But as childhood friends Tom and Will enter adulthood, for one of them maturity isn’t just growing from boy to man. He develops into someone completely new as surely as the butterfly emerges transformed from its chrysalis, irrevocably and chaotically also transforming both their worlds in the process.

Through battle ground bravado in Northern Ireland, drugs, sexual betrayal, IVF, transsexualism, and ‘forbidden’ love, they each search for courage to live life their way. Can love be strong enough to fly in the face of the chains of convention? The answer only becomes clear after events transpire to ultimately create a simple choice for them both; life or death, and they have to face the consequence of their choices.'

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

I have always been a voracious reader. As a child I used to work my way along the shelves at the local library – a bit like a locust! I would come home with an armful of books and have finished them all within days and be champing at the bit to go back for more. I developed a love of literature per se at school and that lead me to university to study English and Fine rt – my two passions by then. I still love going to the theatre and visiting art galleries when I get the chance.

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

There are many books that have had a lasting effect on me. Enid Blyton’s Famous Fives were probably the first major influence in getting me hooked on reading the next and the next and the next as quickly as possible. Shakespeare was a revelation when I started reading and understanding the skill of the writer in my teens. At university, I was struck by the drama and spectacle of the Jacobean tragedians but also knocked sideways by the punchiness of controversial writing like Selby’s ‘Last Exit to Brooklyn’, yet I also love the epic other- worldliness of Tolkien. I would say overall that there are so many influences it would be difficult to lay the blame for my writing now on any specific one of them! 

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

Why did I write Chained Melody, as I’m not gay, transvestite or transsexual? Because after discussing with my older daughter how Twelfth Night was one of the earliest plots to include gender confusion as an issue, I realised that it was a very serious and distressing issue, yet one that barely gets any really empathetic airtime. Much of the LGBT type fiction is blatantly erotica and I wanted to write an account that led non-transgender people to understand it as a serious issue, not a tacky joke. ‘Trannies’ are usually figures of fun, not sympathy. I hate prejudice and closed-mindedness,so I set out to write something that spanned a wide range of difficult situations including transsexualism, and get the reader rooting for the two main characters, who experienced these dilemmas, despite the fact that one was transsexual and they would therefore not normally be regarded as the hero(ine).

What challenges have you faced in your writing career?

Getting published is a continual issue for all writers. I lost all faith in the traditional system after meeting a range of publishers and agents at a literary conference last year via the university I now work for, and realising how blasé and dismissive they were of debut writers in their search for the next ‘Fifty shades of…’ money spinner. Literature should be about great writing not great piles of cash (even though we’d like some of it …)

What has been your best moment as a writer?

I suppose it has to be the time I held the first printed book in my hand and thought – ‘this is mine!’ There is a family photo of me with a grin bigger than the Cheshire Cat’s holding it up. Classic!

Who is your author idol?

P D James. I heard her speak at a writers group meeting I hd the privilege to go to last year and at over 90, she is still sharp, charming, interesting, relevant and a brilliant speaker as well as writer. Please may I be as quick-witted and skilled in my nineties!

Do you see yourself in any of your characters?

Yes, unfortunately. I think we always write a little of what and who we know into our characters – whether we intend to or not. Art has to imitate life as it’s the only way we’ve gained enough experience to w be able to write. However, now when I write a character, I am writing characteristics I am aware of – and how they determine or influence the characters behaviour and decisions, rather than copy-catting people I’ve met or known. Writing is also a rather good way of examining those elements I yourself and others and using that to work out why we do things to, so there’s always some self-analysis going on in any writing, I think.

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

Well, a dream has come true in the sense that I have written and been published three times – and that is amazing for me, but it’s just the first step along the way. I still have so much more to write, I don’t quite know where to start…

What does your workspace look like?

It’s my dining room table – littered with bits of paper, my laptop, a cup of coffee and the biscuit tin, unless I’m feeling virtuous or on a diet. On the floor, where I will fall over her as soon as I get up, is my daft retriever called Rosie – who actually has a bit-part in ‘Trivett’, when I get round to finishing it.

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

No. I’ve had days when I’ve wondered why I was doing it as getting published is often so hard to achieve, and then the love of writing – and the need to do it, kicks in again.

What do you do when you’re not writing?

I have a rather hectic life most of the time, being a single mum, and also working and running my own business so I always tend to be rushing from one thing to another. When I can I like to play badminton, read, love live music, the theatre and just being sociable to relax. I’m a bit of a party-thrower, and then wonder afterwards why I did it because I spend most of my time rushing round being the host and not the party-goer. Maybe that makes me a workaholic?

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

Staying determined even when it doesn’t feel like it’s going well, being observant because the next character or situation is often write under your nose, listening carefully because sometimes the smallest thing can make the difference to success or failure, taking criticism positively because you ALWAYS learn from it, letting rip to your friends when you’re frustrated (– and then shutting up so they don’t get fed up with you going on about it) and just keep writing …

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

When I realised I enjoyed writing and wanted to find the time to do it.

What advice would you give to aspiring authors?

·       Try to find some time every week to write something. You can draw on what you think as even disconnected ideas at a later stage

·       Always have something to record ideas wherever you are. It may not be possible to write every day, but the longer you don’t write the more the frustration builds and when it’s built up enough I always find that’s when the great ideas spill out – usually when I’m driving! Make sure you have some way of recording them wherever you are – notebook, dictaphone, phone even.

·       Have goals - even if they are small ones, so you feel you have achieved something.

·       Have a long term plan – if you want to publish, have that as your plan.

·       Join a writers group – they will encourage you and give you ideas, and you will do the same for your fellow members.

·       Read, read, read.

·       Go to some classes if you aren’t sure on technique, style, content. One of the best inspirations I had was a course at Bournemouth University (my ‘local’) – the course teacher is now a personal friend and I learned so much from it, and the other people on it, it was invaluable.

·       Learn how to edit and ‘kill your darlings’ if you have to.

·       Find and take advice when it’s needed. We can’ all do everything perfectly – yo may  need someone else to edit, proof-read, critique …

·       Read aloud – it really pinpoints problem areas.

·       Be bold. No-one got anywhere without a little self-belief.

After this book, what is next?

Apart from editing and getting the next two novels that are already written published, I’ve just taken on a joint project to write a tale about the lap dancing industry. Its working title is ‘Private Dancer’ and I will be fictionalising real life memoirs, which is going to be tricky challenge to create a startling but non-cheesy story about principles in an unprincipled world. I’ve got the first sentence of the first chapter already in my head!

Your website?

http://www.debbiemartin.co.uk

Your blog?

Blog: http://debbiemartin.wordpress.com/

Other websites?

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/DebbieMartin.Author?ref=hl

Linked In: http://uk.linkedin.com/pub/debbie-martin/21/27b/3b4?trk=shareTw    

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6588010.Debbie_Martin

Twitter @Storytellerdeb

Where can your book be found?

On Amazon:

Paperback: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Chained-Melody-Debbie-Martin/dp/1780035470/ref=sr_1_cc_1?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1357295167&sr=1-1-catcorr

Kindle: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Chained-Melody-ebook/dp/B00AG39Q74/ref=tmm_kin_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1357295167&sr=1-1-catcorr

Debbie also has a Facebook competition to win a free signed copy of Chained Melody. It will run until February 1^st and maybe longer if it does well. Here’s the link:

https://www.facebook.com/DebbieMartin.Author/app_190322544333196

Please thank Debbie for joining us today. Please go check out her website, blog, facebook, etc. Leave a comment. Let her know what you think.

Keep Writing!

Jodie Pierce

Author Mark Harris and his "Bewitched"!

Hi all!
 I wanted to welcome Mark Harris to my blog today. He is the Author of the new book, "Bewitched".

About the Author:

Mark Harris lives in Smithfield Utah, a small town located in a beautiful valley in Northern Utah. His wife, Shaundale, and he have four terrific children, two girls and two boys and a fifth one due to arrive in November of 2012. Mark has taught English and Special Education and currently works from home teaching English to people from all over the world. Writing has always been his true passion since he was a grade schooler writing about mushrooms. "Bewitched" will be his debut novel. He has two others underway and will soon start on the sequel to "Bewitched," called "The Return of the Familiar." He hopes you enjoy his work because he is working on several series geared toward younger audiences.

You can find Mark on: www.markjayharrisauthor.com

Here's his new book, "Bewitched", due out March 1st, 2013!

Blurb:

Is it love or is it witchcraft? He’ll never find out if he kills her first.

The first time Darren saw Samantha, she was floating above his high school gymnasium during a basketball game, invisible to everyone but him. Next time he sees her, she's sitting in front of him in class, wowing his friends and causing unexplainable things to happen that only he seems to notice. But things really get strange (and complicated) when his dying grandfather tells him that he is part of an ancient order, the “Pessum Ire,” whose duty is to destroy witches. What does he do now, since he’s almost positive Samantha is a witch…and he’s crushing on her pretty hard?

"Bewitched is spell-binding! A highly-unique page-turner that hooks you from the first paragraph. With complex characters and unexpected twists and turns, Harris delivers and leaves you hoping for more!" - Stephanie Keyes, author, The Star Child series.

He is holding a giveaway of his book as well until Feb.1st. Go here:

Rafflecopter Code:

For Blogger platforms:

<a id="rc-62e21813" class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/62e21813/" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>

<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script>

For Wordpress platforms:

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/share-code/NjJlMjE4ZjNjN2QxNDk4NmMzZjRmN2YxZjA5MmFlOjEz/

Please thank Mr. Harris for dropping by and giving us some great information about this new amazing book! I look forward to it's release on March 1st and can't wait to pick it up! Visit him on his website for more information. Check out his book and giveaway!

Keep Writing & Reading!

Jodie Pierce

2012 Blog of the Year Nominations

‘Blog of the Year 2012’ Award

Do you know a blog that deserves an award?

Do you have special blogs that you love to read?

Which blogs do you bookmark and follow?

Would you like to give them an award this year?

Then the ‘Blog of the Year 2012’ Award is for you!

The ‘rules’ for this award are simple:

1 Select the blog(s) you think deserve the ‘Blog of the Year 2012’ Award

2 Write a blog post and tell us about the blog(s) you have chosen – there’s no minimum or maximum number of blogs required – and ‘present’ them with their award.

3 Please include a link back to this page ‘Blog of the Year 2012’ Award – http://thethoughtpalette.co.uk/our-awards/blog-of-the-year-2012-award/   and include these ‘rules’ in your post (please don’t alter the rules or the badges!)

4 Let the blog(s) you have chosen know that you have given them this award and share the ‘rules’ with them

5 You can now also join our Facebook group – click ‘like’ on this page ‘Blog of the Year 2012’ Award Facebook group and then you can share your blog with an even wider audience

6 As a winner of the award – please add a link back to the blog that presented you with the award – and then proudly display the award on your blog and sidebar … and start collecting stars…

Yes – that’s right – there are stars to collect!

Unlike other awards which you can only add to your blog once – this award is different!

When you begin you will receive the ‘1 star’ award – and every time you are given the award by another blog – you can add another star!

There are a total of 6 stars to collect.

Which means that you can check out your favourite blogs – and even if they have already been given the award by someone else – you can still bestow it on them again and help them to reach the maximum 6 stars!

‘Blog of the Year 2012’ Award Badges

Here are the six badges for you to collect – you can either ‘swop’ your badge for the next one each time you are given the award – or even proudly display all six badges if you are lucky enough to be presented with the award six times!

~

I nominated Deborah Palumbo at www.deborahpalumbotheundeparted.blogspot.com &

Ann Snizek at www.annsnizekauthor.blogspot.com

Go to the main page and give me a nom and star!

Keep Writing!

Jodie Pierce

Please welcome Author Jean Murray!

Hi all!
Today we have just a bit of information about a wonderful book and Author, Jean Murray and Soul Awakened, book 2 to Soul Reborn which is book 1. Here's the Author:

About the Author:

In her pursuit of a nursing degree, Jean Murray aspired to see the world and joined the Navy. At the end of 2011 she said a heart-breaking goodbye to her Navy family and retired after twenty years of military service. Although her dreams of writing full time have yet to come true, she continues her writing journey and draws inspiration from her travels abroad. She enjoys spending time with her family and of course, writing about the “Carrigan sisters and their mates, Gods of the Underworld,” to bring you the next installment of the Key to the Cursed series.

Soul Awakened
Key to the Cursed Series Book Two

Jean Murray

Genre:  Dark Paranormal

Publisher:  Crescent Moon Press

Date of Publication:  January 15, 2013

ISBN:  978-1-937254-97-1                     

ASIN: 978-1-937254-98-8                    

Number of pages:  292

Word Count:  92,000

Cover Artist:  Taria A. Reed

Book Description:

LOVE FOR BLOOD OR HONOR

Kendra, an Egyptologist and demi-god in waiting, is the key to unlocking Bakari, the Egyptian God of Death, from his cursed slumber. Desperate to free him, she inadvertently binds herself to the god with a spell that only death will undo. To save Bakari from himself, she may have to sacrifice her innocence, and possibly her soul, before he becomes his family’s worst enemy.

HAUNTED BY SINS OF THE PAST

Bakari awakens to a world at war and a beautiful woman who has tethered his soul to hers. In the wake of his self-destruction Kendra is his only hope of salvation, but another has vowed to keep Bakari from the one thing he craves most-- his Parvana. His butterfly.

Here is my review:

Kendra Carrigan, an Archeologist, Egyptologist and demi-god in her own right, ventures into Thebes, Egypt to deal with her father’s body that had been brought back to the Underworld my her sister Lily when she had to shove her sword into his chest when he was a zombie. Her husband, Asur wants his son Bakari’s tomb opened so he can move on in the Underworld. With Bomani, the Underworld Legion Commander by her side, Kendra jumps head first into the events that unfold around her. Though Bomani lusts after Kendra, dare he say anything especially after Bakari marks her? She ventures into the lair of Bakari to open the tomb. He had been taken hostage by Kepi, fed her blood and had his powers muted by using scorpions. She then placed a curse on him and put him into his ‘tomb’ after torturing him for four years. Kendra realized there is a curse that kept the sarcophagus shut for her normal methods of opening sarcophagus did not work. She studied and studied to find that curse. After strange things start happening to her, will she give of herself to save Bakari? Will she find the key to the curse? Will she survive to see it? All will be told in the end.

Author, Jean Murray’s use of words depict vivid pictures for the reader. As a reader, I use my own imagination but she writes in such a manner that she creates it all for you. She wrote a spellbinding, twisting and turning story that draws in the reader from the beginning and keep you guess throughout. The main character is so likable and you find yourself rooting for her throughout her journey despite her setbacks. This story also produces an amazing amount of Egyptology mixed in the story and it adds to the realizism of the story. This is a must read, along with her first book, Soul Reborn, Key to the Cursed, Book 1.

Jean Murray can be found here:

Web: www.jean-murray.com ; www.keytothecursed.com

Blog: www.wickedromance.wordpress.com

Face Book:  http://www.facebook.com/pages/Jean-Murray-Paranormal-Romance-Author/130589967006760

                      

Twitter: http://twitter.com/wickedromance

Goodreads: 

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5103113.Jean_Murray

Book Trailer Soul Reborn: http://youtu.be/smSJsJp5o74

  

So folks, go check out this awesome book and Author! Visit her website/blog and leave a comment. Do something!

Keep Reading all!

Jodie Pierce