I’ve been gearing up for this year’s Penned Con. Sadly, I won’t have book 2 of the Valkyrie’s series done in time. Darn it!
I’ve been working a lot on the day job, got my office decorated finally. I”ll bet you haven’t seen another mortgage loan officer’s office like mine!
Purple walls- what are you going to do with that? It wasn’t my choice of colors, but I worked with what I was given. this has become my place of solitude to write uninterrupted.
I’d like to say I had a completed project to share with everyone, but I don’t. I have been organizing my files, going through duplicate files, making print copies of each story so that I had a reference point, and writing out my main storyline and plot points.
In Kiss of the Dragon, for instance, I pantsed that one. It didn’t have a viable plot, other than romance, but they meet they fall in love, they work their way towards the big deed isn’t exactly a plot, now is it? In the meantime, there are five different things going on in their world that involve them. I had to sort it out to make sense inside my head before continuing. The first book, which I wrote during Nano many years back, I wrote over 100K. Sadly, much of that will either go into other books of that series or it will be thrown in the virtual trash bin. I have four or maybe even five books planned for that series. It’s just a matter of whether the mage parts can be included into the other books or not. Which, is why I was working on writing out my plot points.
For those who have followed me for a long time, you know that I have multiple projects in the incomplete file. I’ve really been trying to focus on just one at a time like my friend Vicki Locey has advised. If I could get to where I can crank out the writing at even half the pace she does, I might stand a chance to get all of my books completed!
In the meantime, I’ve been packing and decluttering my home. So far this month, I’ve removed over 300 items, whether it has gone in the trash, recycling, or to charity. It’s liberating, but man I got a lot more to do in the dungeon, errr basement.
So, aside from all of that, I’ve been gearing up for Penned. I wanted to share over the next few days some of the past interviews I’ve done with attending authors.
The first one, Mr. Rick Miles, organizer of the event. (This one is from 2016 – my God, I was huge!!!)
Next, is AnnaLise Grant, author of the Lake, the only book I have read of hers yet. I have others, I just haven’t read them yet.
I surprised Nikki Jefford, she commented that she almost came downstairs early in her pjs, but she was glad that she got clothes on when I surprised her.
She looks completely together to me! So last year, I made an invitation to the Penned Con group and was overwhelmed with responses. Sadly, I greatly overestimated my energy level and was unable to get to everyone that I had signed up to do an interview. Please don’t hate me guys – I blame cancer! Yes, I’m pulling the cancer card on that one, because I was drained after treatments.
But here are a few from Penned Con 2017. First. Laura Hawk!!
IF you are into military romance, have I got the author for you! Meet Shannon Nemecheck!
Well, that’s all you’re getting for today, I have to get back to work on these darned edits, which will require more coffee.
Y’all have a great day and come back to find out who else I’ve interviewed tomorrow. Or the net tomorrow, we’ll see how it goes.
At Penned Con, I had the chance to interview in person a few of the authors. Seriously, I had scheduled a LOT more than I was able to do – my bad! I greatly overestimated my energy levels!
One of the authors I was able to catch up with was Maggie Adams, as she was right across the aisle from me. Last year, this wonderful lady helped me to set up. I was in a panic, frazzled, didn’t know what to do and she stepped in and helped me get things arranged. Thank you for that, Maggie!!
Maggie Adams is an Amazon Best Selling romance author. Her first book in the Tempered Steel Series, Whistlin’ Dixie, debuted in Amazon’s Top 100 for Women’s Fiction, humor, in November 2014. Since then, she has consistently made the Amazon bestseller 5-star list with her Tempered Steel Series. Her series has launched the tiny town of Grafton, Illinois, into International recognition with sales in Mexico, Ireland, Scotland, Australia and the UK.
She also writes erotica (Lustful Trilogy), paranormal romance (The Leathers Series), young adult romance (Sweet Tea Sisters), and women’s fiction (Minx).
Maggie’s books can be found on eBook and paperback at these links:
Mackenzie Coalson was determined to rebuild his hometown after a devastating flood left it in ruins. He has no time for a relationship and all the romantic junk that goes with it. He has a vandal to catch and no sweet smelling bundle of femininity is going to sway him.
A woman protecting her family….
Dixie Harris charged into the county sheriff’s office with a sassy sway and a smart mouth, eager to give the sheriff, and anyone else, a piece of her mind. When she locks horns with the devil himself, in the form of Mac Coalson, she quickly learns he has a temper to rival hers, even if he’s the living epitome of her sexual fantasies.
When the two unite to catch a potential murderer, it’s in everyone’s best interest to keep it, “business only”. But that’s hard to do when their combined attraction is volatile enough to burn down the town.
Sam Coalson, ex-Navy Seal, has returned to Grafton for the wedding of his brother. After being run out of town fifteen years ago for a crime he didn’t commit, he’s determined to claim what is rightfully his and take on anyone crazy enough to try and stop him.
Angel Devereaux is smart, sexy and definitely on Sam’s blacklist. After siding with Sam’s enemy fifteen years ago, Angel can’t help but wonder what if….what if Sam had never left? What if he could forgive her now? She had her reasons, but he won’t listen. So enough with words, sometimes action is exactly what’s called for.
Chance Coalson loves women. And they love him. Young or old, no woman is immune to his charm.
Except one.
Georgia Haines is the only female volunteer firefighter in Grafton. She’s had a crush on Chance Coalson since he offered her his handkerchief at her momma’s funeral. But she’s smart enough to know that it takes a special woman to tame a charmer like Chance, and there’s nothing particularly special about her.
When fire breaks out at the Coalson’s construction business and Chance is trapped inside, Georgia braves the flames to save him, only to discover her “crush” has morphed into love. And she’s helpless to hide her desire.
Chance awakens to find an angel breathing life into his lungs with a kiss. The woman he wanted more than any other was the one who paid the “Casanova of the County” no mind.
So how does a man with a bad reputation convince a shy firefighter that he’s worth taking a chance on love?
Lawrence “Lucky” Coalson is on the track of the arsonist that torched his older brother’s construction company. The clues have led him to the Mississippi Flame Casino, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Taking a job as a bouncer there, he hopes to find a connection to the vandalism or even the arsonist. What he finds is a blonde bombshell in a bit of trouble, so like the alpha male he is, Lucky comes to the rescue. But like a magician’s trick, not everything is as it appears.
Can Lucky discern the difference between lust and love when what happens in Vegas doesn’t stay in Vegas? And is the Coalson family prepared to face the consequences of his actions?
His brothers tease that he’s the “Sensitive”‘ one— Brandon Coalson has a huge heart and a tender touch with those that need saving. He thought it a weakness. He will see it as a gift when he meets shy and frightened Anna Meeks.
Anna has a secret that keeps her from encouraging Brandon’s thoughtful advances. He lifts her to heaven during the day, but she goes home to hell at night. Can she trust this gentle giant with her life and the lives of those she loves?
When tragedy strikes the Coalson family, can Brandon and his brothers save the company they’ve worked so hard to build? Or will he be forced to sacrifice Anna when she’s caught in the crosshairs of a psychopath’s revenge?
“Lady, if I were you, I’d get the hell away from here ‘cause when I make it up this hill, I’m gonna be looking for you.” Lucky Coalson’s luck has run out. His ex-wife turned out to be a con artist; his business is in a shambles, and he’s been tossed into a muddy river by a smart assed feminist with a chip on her shoulder. Things couldn’t get much worse…or so he thought.
When Lucky’s accused of murdering his ex-wife, the Coalson family enlists the help of a private investigator to gather the clues necessary to prove his innocence. Little did they know that Renee Morgan is the same woman that sent Lucky scrambling up a sodden river bank at the height of a storm.
The two square off immediately, but Renee’s admiration of the Coalson family, despite her dislike of Lucky, is the deciding factor in her acceptance of the job. And although Lucky bristles every time she speaks, he grudgingly respects her intelligence and savvy skills as a private investigator.
As the hunt for the killer escalates, the two find they are not the only ones looking for the mysterious assassin. And the other people are more than willing to take out anyone that gets in their way, including those that Lucky and Renee hold dear to their hearts.
In a moment of passion that rocks them to the core, they realize their love may be forged in fire, but both have been badly burned by past lovers, and too stubborn to admit the truth. Can they find a way around their fears, or will Lucky’s ex-wife continue to plague him from the grave?
He wants her to be his lover…she wants to be his forever.
Nick Coalson is abrasive, arrogant, and an absolute dynamo in the bedroom. Problem is, he knows it.
Rebecca Morgan is sweet, shy, and immensely attracted to Nick, but he’s trouble in tight jeans and she knows it.
When Nick Coalson saves Rebecca Morgan from an assassin’s bullet, he sets his sights on the shy partner of a detective agency. But he mistakes her kindness for weakness and learns the hard way that although she may seem submissive, she’s a voluptuous bundle of intelligence and determination.
Rebecca tries to hide her feelings for Nick because he’s the kind of man that makes a smart girl do stupid things. After a sensual encounter, Nick grows distant, stating he wants a lover, not a wife. Rebecca realizes she’s going to need to keep her wits about her if she wants Nick forever because it’s too easy to lose herself to his dominant personality.
When a stranger offers to help her win Nick, she accepts although she wonders what’s in it for him. But Nick thinks it’s too late for his love when he witnesses a tender moment between Rebecca and another man. His head tells him to step aside, but his heart aches for her tender touch.
And as the killer closes in on the Coalson family, Nick wonders if it will be too late to save not only their love, but their very lives?
When the picture-perfect wife of a prominent local businessman decides to let loose of her inhibitions, she begins a journey into the darker art of romance and sexual gratification. Through online chats and fetish forums, she explores the world of kink, from Dominance and submission to BDSM. Sensory deprivation, wax, fire, rope and knife play are ideas waiting to be experienced. Then there’s the relationships with Daddy/littles, Master/slave, primal, puppy play, hedonists, and leather families.
She yearns to explore, and yet, fears the loss of her vanilla world, for once seen, it can never be unseen. Her solution is to conduct dalliances online, but it soon becomes apparent that this will not satisfy her cravings. So, she must choose to continue in cyberspace or take the leap and truly begin to live the life her body, and her heart, desires.
But not every kinkster is a good soul, and she learns the hard way that trust can be misplaced, the mind can be twisted, and those that seek the darker passions may have their own psychotic agendas. Just like Alice’s Wonderland, nothing is as it appears and what’s right is wrong and what is perceived as pain is, in fact, Nirvana.
That’s how I look back on this time in my life. In my sexual prime, a widow escaping the mundane, seeking the darker art of romance. Romance? Ha! It was an obsession, a compulsion to discover the sensual being hidden for so many years.
I was a fool.
I ran rampant with the fever of sexual discovery, from submission to Dominance, edge play to slavery, I was willing to try it all. I would seek out willing participants in debauchery from online sex sites to chat forums. It didn’t matter. It was safe to play online, to meet in groups of like-minded people intent on pleasure.
Or so I thought.
When drugs and alcohol make the mind blurry and the hands unsteady, someone could get hurt. When the highs of pleasure can go no higher, when slavery and edge play take on dangerous thrills for the Dominant and frightening scenarios for the submissive, it is time to safeword out. So, I did.
But no one listened.
Now I must live with the consequences. I must decide to run away or face the challenge before me. I must discern the truth from the Lustful Lies.
IF you like romance with an erotic edge or straight up erotica, Maggie is your gal! Go check them out!
I got the chance at Penned Con 2017 to interview the lovely Candace Carrabus to talk about her latest book.
Candace was in the same group as I was for an authorgraph card, the prize being a basket of books from each of the authors participating. What better prize for book lovers, right? It was a such a joy to speak with Candace! At the awards ceremony, we sat near each other and had the opportunity to talk a little more. I’m looking forward to seeing her at Penned again, and perhaps some other signing events. Since I got sidetracked during our interview, and didn’t actually let Candace talk about her book as much, here’s a bit more information for your pleasure.
Run Out, Dream Horse Mystery #2
by Candace Carrabus
Viola Parker might be one of the best show-jumper riders around, but her attitude just landed her out of work. Again. Now, all that’s between her and a surprise trust fund is keeping a job for one full year by the time she’s 30. But between the ghost horse visiting Vi’s dreams and the dead bodies piling up, the question isn’t whether she can keep her mouth shut long enough to earn a reference, but whether she’ll live long enough to get it.
Blurb:
Keeping a job for one year shouldn’t be so hard…
Vi’s sworn off whipped cream, her favorite bra is strung on a tomato plant, and ghost horse Wastrel has galloped back into her nights. When her estranged parents land on the farm’s doorstep with suitcases full of nothing, tempers flare and secrets emerge. Fearing her boss/lover, Malcolm will lose his patience, Vi does her best to keep her grandfather out of the gun safe and her dog out of his garden. Curbing a lifetime of anger to endure her parents’ mystifying visit is the least of her problems. A furtive stranger is stalking them, and he’ll stop at nothing to execute his long-awaited revenge.
Vi can barely resist the urge to RUN OUT.
Will she survive a scorching summer of tomatoes, tango, and terror?
Witty, crisp dialogue and plenty of twists and turns will keep you guessing right to the very end of this thrilling and emotional sequel to On the Buckle.
Certain men should be required to wear a sports bra when riding.
That’s what I was thinking as I boosted an overweight guy onto Fawn, a stout quarter horse mare who could carry him without straining anything. Although she did let out a little grunt of protest when he plopped onto the saddle. His parts bounced recklessly. And by parts, I mean man boobs. Moobs.
I’d read a recent study that said riders could throw their horse’s balance out of whack if they didn’t wear the right undergarments.
I couldn’t unsee the moobs, but I could ignore them as I mounted my horse—correct undergarments in place—and set off for the relative cool of the woods. Here it was, late August in Missouri and there was no sign of the heat letting up or rain coming down.
Unfortunately, there was no sign Winterlight Farm would discontinue public riding anytime soon, either.
BONUS Excerpt:
It was when I stepped down into the aisle that a loud boom ricocheted through the barn. Horses in the field jumped, lifted their heads and looked toward the house. Zoe came through the tack room door.
“Was that—”
“I think—”
The sound had been both familiar and foreign. But my brain was catching up fast.
Again, a crack bent the air, sending a tremor through me. A couple of the horses bucked and took off.
“Shit,” I said, starting to run. “Those are gunshots.”
I ran. Ran like the devil himself had a bead on me.
Which someone had, once, not long ago, someone evil. But that time, I’d been on a horse. A very fast horse.
Oh god oh god oh god.
Again, I found myself running straight at my fear instead of disappearing in my preferred direction—away.
Wishing I had four legs, I forced more power into the two, sprinted up the driveway, pounded across the porch, and tore the screen door off one hinge getting inside.
Needed to breathe. Not picture the images rushing my brain.
No one in the front room.
Sliding down the slick old hardwood of the hallway on the soles of my riding boots, I careened into the kitchen.
There, my parents sat at the table, each reading a section of the days-old local weekly paper. My father wore glasses.
No blood.
Had they killed Giacomo and stashed the body? If so, they were mighty quick.
Author Bio:
Candace Carrabus is a multi-published author of fantasy, contemporary mystery, and metaphysical fiction. Most of her stories feature women of a certain age <cough> because, well, women of a certain age like to have adventures, too, right?
She’s written stories and ridden horses–simultaneously–for as long as she can remember. Now, she shares a farm in Missouri with her husband and daughter, two dogs, three cats, two feisty goats, a gentle alpaca, and a guard llama. Her horse wasn’t interested in sharing his pasture with those critters, so he lives at a horse farm.
Not surprisingly, Candace’s stories are often infused with the mystery and spirituality horses have brought to her life. Come along for the ride!
Please leave a comment to show Candace your love and support! I am going to get my copy of this book now because I love a good mystery! Thank you for being my guest today Candace and I hope to see you again soon.
While I was at Penned Con 2016, I got the opportunity to talk with and interview a few authors live, one on one.. OK, so I fangirled a lot as well. What can I say?
Nikki Jefford is one of those authors. I took a big breath, exhaled loudly, then quickly approached her to do an interview. She was such an amazing sport, and I know I cut into her set up time.
Sorry Nikki! I had only read the first of her books but was already in love with this character and series. I was so nervous however, that I forgot to get her to autograph a print copy for me. Next time Nikki, don’t let me forget!
You can tell I was nervous, I was tongue tied, which is rare for me.
I first saw a post on Facebook in the Penned Con group from Nikki back in April I think. She posted a release for her latest book, True North (Aurora Sky, Vampire Hunter book 6) and I had never heard of it before that time. It piqued my curiosity so I went over to Amazon and immediately got book 1, because I can’t jump into a series on book 6 that’s just crazy. I’m currently on book 3.
I talk way too much when I am nervous and Nikki was great about it. *facepalm*
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Nikki Jefford is the author of the Aurora Sky: Vampire Hunter series and Spellbound Trilogy. She is a third-generation Alaskan now living in the Pacific Northwest with her French husband and their Westie, Cosmo. When she’s not reading or writing she enjoys taking long walks and motorcycling. Lifelong nature and animal lover with a fondness for hot chocolate, tea, wine, and baked goods.
While I was at Penned Con 2016, I got the opportunity to talk with and actually interview a few authors. OK, so I fangirled a lot as well. What can I say?
(You may have to turn the volume up, I haven’t figured everything out yet.)
Letters From Jayson by Amy Hale
Jayson wants a quiet place to finish his current project. With one missed deadline behind him, he doesn’t have time for distractions and interruptions.
When Lindsey temporarily moves into a beach house owned by her best friend’s fiancé, she finds that it’s already occupied… by Jayson. To him, she’s a nuisance and a distraction from his work. To her, he’s a conceited and bossy obstacle. Both annoyed at this unavoidable situation, they agree to make the most of their predicament and try to co-exist in peace until their work is done. But Lindsey and Jayson quickly learn there is a fine line between love and hate. Is it really possible to love someone that makes you so crazy? Blurb:
Lindsey is ready for a change.
Shallow relationships and a dead end job have left her longing for more, so when a rare, but difficult opportunity presents itself for a promotion and temporary change of scenery, she jumps at the chance to try something new.
Letters From Jayson is a heartfelt comedy about finding love and forgiveness in the midst of chaos.
An hour later, Lindsey retied her sarong around her waist and slowly made her way back to the house. She smiled as she walked, taking note of every detail she passed. The sand, the rocks, plant life—everything felt perfect. And the solitude was amazing. Not a sound outside of nature could be heard. The waves crashing softly were the perfect background music to start her new adventure. She pulled open the French doors and stepped inside the cottage. Then she froze in place. She heard humming. Masculine humming. It was coming from the vicinity of the kitchen.
At that moment, a man walked through the doorway with a knife in one hand. His piercing blue eyes met hers, and he stopped in his tracks. She let out a scream and grabbed the nearest thing she could find, which turned out to be a small potted plant. Lifting it over her head, she flung it at the intruder. He ducked just as it smashed against the wall next to him.
“Get out,” she screamed. “Get out. Get out. Get out.”
“Lady. Hold up a minute,” the stranger yelled back. He quickly glanced at the remnants of the plant, disapproval on his face.
“I’m going to call the cops. I’ll have you put away for life. Get out of this house, you sicko.” She ran for the bed-room that she’d left her bags in, hoping she could shut him out and get to her cell phone.
He got there first and blocked the door. “Calm down.”
“Calm down?” she screeched as her eyes jumped from his to the knife still in his hand. She backed up as she blindly searched for something else to throw at him, and her hand landed on a small glass paperweight. She lobbed it at him, and his reflexes weren’t quite quick enough. It nailed him in the chest.
“Argh … Dammit! Stop throwing things at me.” He rubbed the spot where she’d hit him.
“If you think you can just waltz in here and … and … assault me, I’ll have you know that I will not go down without a fight.” Her tone was full of determination, but she was sure he could see the fear in her eyes.
“What are you talking about?” He held up his hands and only then seemed to realize he was holding a large kitchen knife. He looked back at her. “I’m gonna put the knife down and we will talk like rational adults, okay?”
She backed away from him several more steps before swallowing and giving him a reluctant nod.
He placed the knife on the table to his left, keeping his eyes on her the whole time. “Now, why are you yelling at me like a deranged banshee?”
“Why am I …” His description set her teeth on edge and her anger flared. “Listen, Bucko, I’m not an easy target, so don’t think you can smooth talk me or trick me into letting my guard down. And insulting me sure as hell won’t get you anywhere.”
He put his hands on his hips and raised one perfect eyebrow. “You listen, sweet cheeks, your virtue is safe. I don’t have to resort to forcing a woman if I’m in need of intimate company.” He took a moment to admire her red bikini and see-through sarong. “I mean, you’re hot and all, but don’t flatter yourself.”
She opened her mouth for a witty retort, but all that escaped was air. For a moment, she was actually speech-less, and that didn’t happen often. That moment quickly passed. “Why did you have a knife?”
He looked at her like she was an idiot. “To cut my sandwich.” He pointed to the coffee table in the middle of the room. A blue plate sat on one edge of the table—a large sandwich and a handful of chips covered most of the surface. An open beer bottle was nearby.
“A sandwich?” She was really confused. Why would a guy break in and make a sandwich? She looked him over then, really taking notice of him. She amended that thought—Why would a guy break in and make a sandwich, wearing nothing but lounge pants? He wasn’t just any guy, either, he might have easily been the most attractive man she’d ever set eyes on. He looked to be a few inches taller than her and was muscular everywhere. Not bodybuilder, vein-popping huge, but more like lean cut and definition that spoke of a man who took good care of himself. His face was classically handsome, with an angled jawline and rugged features, yet there was also something about him that made her think of that adorable boy she’d had a crush on in fourth grade. Maybe it was the bright-blue eyes, or the spiky but messy hair. Or it could have been that impish grin that told her he knew just what she was thinking. Damn, he caught me checking him out.
She shook off those thoughts and glared at him. Typical. Handsome and full of himself. Before she could fire off her next set of questions, he pinned her with a hard look.
“Now that we’ve established that the only thing I planned to murder is a hoagie, maybe you can explain to me what you are doing?”
She pulled herself to her full height and looked him in the eye. “I don’t owe you an explanation for anything.”
“Since you are in my house, uninvited, I might add, I’d say you do.”
Author Bio:
Amy Hale is an author, mother, and wife living in Illinois. She started her writing career in 2003 with non-fiction and educational pieces, but decided to take the leap to fiction in 2014. She’s always plotting new projects and writing down crazy ideas. She’s a hopeless romantic and adores all the various ways a love story can be told. Amy also loves mystery, humor, suspense, and other action-filled stories, so her goal is to blend the action with romance and keep you on your toes.
Her husband and kids are the center of her universe, although her cat believes otherwise. She also loves reading, music, and photography. When she’s not writing or reading, Amy can be found watching MST3K movies with her kids, or enjoying the scenery fly by from the back of her husband’s motorcycle.
I had a long post planned that was all about Penned Con, all about Bullet journaling, and all about what’s next on the agenda. That is all going to have to wait because:
My bullet journal is flooded with panicked notes, phone numbers, notes from each call, shipment numbers, and I’m too stressed to add any purties to it.
What’s next on the agenda? You’ll have to tune in next week to find that out.
I hope that you are enjoying this series ofguest authors for great summer reads. Be sure to leave a review after reading a book. Reviews are important for authors, especially Indie authors.
Today’s guest is a fellow Bard author, Ms. Madison Granger. Let’s dive in and see what we can learn from Ms. Granger shall we?
Tell me a little about yourself.
I’m a young-hearted free spirit mistakenly encased in an aging woman’s body. On the serious side, wait, that was the serious side. If it sounds like I’m stalling, I am. I absolutely hate this question. I’m never quite sure how to answer it. I’m a mom, I’m a grandmother. I’m a full-time legal secretary. And now, I’m an author. Somewhere in all of that, I’ve lived several lives. I’ve done a little of everything, from being a locksmith to a horse trainer. I pull from my life experiences because I have plenty.
What genre do you write?
Paranormal romance
Are you attending any author events over the summer?
I don’t have any plans for author events this year or next year, for that matter. I am trying to line up a few local signings, but nothing more than that. Since I’m just getting started, I’d like to focus on my writing. I’d like to have at least a couple of books on the table before I venture out again.
That is a good approach. I’ve done a few and I feel underqualified sitting next to someone who has six books under their belt, and I have just the one. How do you manage writing with the rest of your life? (job, spouse, parent, etc.)
Since I work full-time, writing has become my second job, of a sort. I’m single, so I don’t have to worry about spending time with a significant other. My routine has become: go to work, come home, unwind, catch up on social media, then write.
Weekends, I write.
That sounds like a tight schedule. Who are your favorite authors?
J.R. Ward, Sherrilyn Kenyon, Patricia Briggs, Terry Brooks, Kevin Hearne, Lynsay Sands … the list goes on and on.
I absolutely adore J.R. Ward and Terry Brooks. I’ve read the others as well but adore those two. What genre do you read most often?
Paranormal romance and epic fantasy.
Will you share a picture of writing space?
Sure.
*sigh* An orderly designated work area. I am envious. *sigh* Moving on –What do you most value in a friend?
Honesty
Do you use real people as your characters or do you completely make them up? Describe your process.
A little of both. My first book originated from a dream. There are several characters that are loosely based on real people. The rest are all imagination. I’m working on a short story at the moment. I dream of the characters and they come to life on the page.
10. How do you handle research? Do you gather all data first or start writing while still gathering?
Again, a little of both. For the third book of my Kindred series, I started researching ahead of time. I knew how that one was going to start, so I had to prepare. I find myself researching as I go along too.
Wow, that time just flew by. We’ll have to do this again when we have more time! Thank you so much for being my guest today, Madison. It’s been a pleasure talking with you!
Phoenix Rising cover
Phoenix Rising
by Madison Granger
Blurb:
Torie Masters is a curvy, middle-aged, divorcee with a normal job and family life. Her penchant for paranormal romances leaves her longing for the day she will meet the man who will sweep her off of her feet. She’s been dreaming a long time.
Quinn McGrath is Liege Lord to a centuries old clan of shapeshifters known as The Kindred. All have been promised a destined mate by the Goddess. He has all but given up finding his.
Sparks fly when Quinn meets Torie. Could his ‘Promised Soul’ finally be real? The eternal mates might not stand a chance as man and nature work against them. From assassination attempts to a devastating hurricane, their future is put to the test across the globe. Is their bond strong enough to see them through to forever?
“Umm, would you do something for me?” asked Torie.
“If it is in my power, you know I will. What would you have me do?”
“Could you shift for me?” she asked hesitatingly.
It was not the question he’d expected first. “Are you sure you want that now?”
“Well, is it gross like on the movies and TV? All drawn out and tortured?”
Laughing softly, he replied to her, “No, it is not like that at all. That would be werewolves, and their transformation is rather painful to watch. I am a shapeshifter, and it is” … he thought for a moment how best to describe it …. “more of a magical transformation.”
“So, could you show me? We’ll get to werewolves later,” she countered, shaking her head, not quite believing they were really having this conversation.
He nodded, walked to the middle of the room, and toed off his loafers. Straightening, he slowly started to strip. Quinn unbuttoned his shirt and dropped it on the floor. Unbuckling his belt, his pants and boxers followed suit.
Torie gasped. She knew he was built, but even her vivid imagination couldn’t have prepared her for seeing him. He was incredible! The epitome of a true warrior, stood tall and regal before her. His arms were corded, the right one covered in tribal ink. His broad chest was covered with a dusting of golden hair that tapered down to a well-formed six-pack. His shaft was semi erect. She could easily discern that he was much bigger than any man she had ever been with. His thighs were thick and well-formed, and his calves were made for running. He was strength personified.
Suddenly the air in the room felt charged. There was a slight shimmering around the tall warrior, an audible ‘pop,’ and Quinn was gone. A huge silver wolf stood in his place. A silver wolf with Quinn’s blue eyes.
Torie was frozen in place, trying to take it all in. She saw it, but was struggling to convince herself that it had actually happened. Slowly, the wolf padded over to her. She sat quietly, watching his approach. His muzzle bumped her hand. Without thinking, she automatically patted his head and scratched behind his ears. Pulling her hand back quickly, she gasped, “Oh geez, I’m sorry Quinn. I didn’t mean to pet you like a dog,” her face reddened furiously.
He nudged her hand again, stepped closer, and licked her face. Quinn sat back on his haunches with his head cocked to the side, tongue lolling out. Torie couldn’t help but laugh. Leave it to Quinn to ease her no matter what shape he was in.
Author Madison Granger
Author Bio:
Madison Granger is a free-spirited late bloomer that stubbornly believes dreams can come true, never giving up, and you’re never too old to try new things. She proved that to herself, and others, when at the age of 30, she got her first horse and went on to become a three-time National Champion in the show ring.
While having a love for books all of her life, Madison had never tried her hand at writing. After having a story in her head for over three years, in the later part of her life, she has written her first book. She is now well on her way to creating a series for her beloved Kindred warriors.
Madison lives in southern Louisiana. Working full-time as a secretary, she still manages to find time to write. When not working or writing, Madison enjoys reading and spending time with friends and family. Follow her on:
That sounds like some serious summer heat up there. I may have to invest in a signed copy. It’s on my to be read list, but I am terrible about reading my ebooks when I have shiny slick covered books demanding my attention.
If you’re in the mood for some summer heat/ shifter romance check out Madison’s debut!
My first guest for this summer’s blitz is the delightful Ms. Sara DeVaney. Sara is the fastest beta reader I have ever sent anything to! Her observations and comments have been an amazing help to me and I’m sure other authors as well.
1. Tell me a little about yourself.
My name is Sara E. DeVaney. I am 30 years old and live in Michigan. I am the youngest of four kids, sisters Amy and Brenna, brother James. I have six nephews and nieces – Owen, Noah, Grayson, Rosie, Nylah and Gavin. I have two dogs – Lucky and Lily – Lucky is a 12-year-old Labradoodle and Lily is a year-old Golden Doodle. I live with my parents – Judith and Daniel, both of who are retired from social work.
2. What genre do you write?
I usually write modern-day fiction, comedy and drama.
3. Do you have a vacation planned for the summer? If so where? If not, when?
My parents, brother and his family, and I rented a cottage and we are going August 13-20. Unfortunately, the dogs can’t come, so they are staying with a family friend. I hope to have lots of fun playing with my niece Nylah and nephew Gavin.
4. What are your favorite summer foods? Activities?
My favorite summer activities include – cloud watching, swimming, being lazy, watching fireflies, playing in the sprinkler and having fun. My favorite summer foods are – hot dogs, burgers, kabobs, s’mores, lemonade and strawberries.
I’m not much on hotdogs but kabobs – yum! Love strawberries too! I remember playing the sprinkler when I was a kid. We had a blast!
5. Who is your favorite hero of fiction?
My favorite hero – I mean heroine – of fiction is Hermione Granger because she’s not afraid to say how she feels or what’s going on with her. I love how she stands up for others (house-elves, Harry and Ron, just to name a few) and her sense of humor.
6. If you could choose to be a character in a book, who would it be?
I would choose to be either Annabeth Chase from Percy Jackson or Hermione Granger from Harry Potter. For guys, I would want to be Legolas from Lord of the Rings or Four from Divergent.
Annabeth – now I can relate to that! That is an excellent choice. I hate to admit but I’ve not read the Harry Potter series, so I can’t comment on Hermione. From what I’ve heard though, it’s a great character.
7. Which book have you read the most in your lifetime?
The first Harry Potter book – the cover has been taped together and ripped so many times I can’t even count.
8. What is your favorite journey?
My favorite journey is to Hogwarts – Harry Potter was one of the first book series I read – I was eleven when it came out and I felt like I was part of the Trio – playing Quidditch with Harry, going to classes with Hermione and eating in the Great Hall with Ron.
9. What advice would you give to aspiring authors?
My advice to aspiring authors is to write what you know and know what you write. Also, read everything, even if it’s a menu – imagine what kinds of foods your characters would eat and what they would drink. If you have pets, imagine what kind of pet your characters would have. Use your imagination every day and you’ll go far.
Here’s a blurb of this year’s novel – it’s called “In the Shelter”:
In the back room of Friendly Corners Animal Rescue, the animals of the shelter come together to tell their stories. Minerva and Athena, an owl and crow, run Shelter Group.
Here’s an excerpt:
The wind howled as two new residents – Night and Zirah – came into Friendly Corners Animal Rescue. Both of them growled and lashed out at the volunteers.
Athena watched from her perch, curious to know what was going on. She and the other birds – Minerva the Owl and Boston the Red-Tailed Hawk – watched curiously, along with the King Vulture named Queenie.
“They’ll make an excellent addition to Shelter Group.” Minerva hooted.
Boston ruffled his feathers, not impressed. It was hard to impress Boston.
Meanwhile in the Big Cat sanctuary, Juba paced, then stopped when the door opened. He let out a low growl to let the newcomers know that this was his turf.
“Easy Juba – they won’t hurt you. This is Night and Zirah.” The volunteer said as the door closed behind him.
Juba let out a low growl, “no one hones in on my turf.”
“We’ve had a rough night – leave us alone.” The panther – Night – growled.
The lioness – Zirah – was oddly quiet.
Juba narrowed his eyes at the others, “as long as you don’t make trouble, you’re welcome here. There’s Shelter Group in the afternoon tomorrow.”
“What’s Shelter Group?” Zirah asked curiously.
I can’t wait to read more! My youngest daughter has fanfiction on there, I will have to read the rest of this when I read hers!
Thank you Sara for sharing with us today and providing summer reading material!
Be sure to leave a comment for Sara when you read her work!
I have a special guest today, Toney Dunaway aka The Armchair Quarterback.
I met Toney online through a writing group a couple of years ago. He was always making interesting posts about healthy choices and fitness, so it was no suprise to me when he made the shift to becoming a certified personal trainer.
If you get the chance to work with him, I highly recommend him. I am very impressed with his healthy living outlook, and whole foods plan.
Tell me a little about yourself.
I’m currently a personal trainer, certified by two different international companies. I also specialize in nutrition and women’s fitness. Beyond that, I’m pursuing a master’s level in nutrition, en route to becoming a board certified holistic doctor. I believe that our bodies are miraculous machines that can do much on their own once we balance them by first figuring out how we are currently out of balance. I’m PASSIONATE about health and fitness and believe that we should all be able to live a full, active, lively life, if we so choose.
Name one thing that is a highlight in your life that you would consider a huge success and name one thing that you count as a failure.
My biggest failure would be not paying attention to my personal growth early in my life. That one thing has set me back decades. My biggest success I would have to say is accepting myself for who I am, strengths and weaknesses, because that has allowed me to more fully love those that are in my life, and appreciate what I have in my life.
Why did you choose this as a career?
There’s a story. I’ve worked out on and off for about 3 decades, and I had no idea how much time I wasted, and how badly I was spinning my wheels. I got a personal trainer for my wife and paid attention to that process. Her trainer suggested that she get certified, then her and I talked about how she thought I would do with it. After some time of batting the idea around, I took the plunge. From that point forward, my passion for proper training and proper nutrition was ignited. Once I started training people myself and teaching them about nutrition, and seeing their positive results, that impacted me, so I knew there was no turning back. I absolutely love seeing others achieve the positive results that they want, to become happier and healthier. It makes all the hours I put into it all worthwhile.
For someone wishing to improve their health that comes to you for help, what would be the first bit of advice that you would give them?
Don’t expect overnight results, but DO expect positive results. If they can take that first step, we can have a very enjoyable journey together.
What do you find to be the most rewarding part of what you do?
Helping others find ways to fit healthier lifestyle choices within the framework of their current life. From that, again, helping others to actually become happier and healthier. As they start seeing and feeling improvements, that makes me happy. With every client that comes in with a smile because what we are doing is making a positive impact on their life, that fires me up to give them that much more of myself.
What part do you feel that the mental game plays in the person’s success or failure?
It makes all the difference in the world. If they are not ready for the needed changes, no matter what their words say, they will get nowhere. To be blunt, they will quit on themselves. I’ve seen it again and again. However, if they are mentally prepared for the journey ahead, together, we will plow through any obstacle. As they communicate with me about what’s going on, together we figure out ways that they can overcome what ever life is hitting them with, so they can continue on their positive journey forward.
How do your services help a person who mentally is defeated?
Honestly, that’s really a tough one. The work outs alone will produce a chemical within your body that make you feel better once the work out is done…however, the longevity of their success has to ultimately come from their readiness to change.
How important do you think supplements play in a person’s diet?
Define “supplements.” The word supplements has all kinds of connotations, some good, some bad. I personally do not recommend 99% of what’s on the market, whether it’s through MLM companies or sold in retail chains. I personally look at the quality of each particular product line, because most of them take shortcuts, and we don’t want shortcuts in our own health. We want ease and convenience, but not shortcuts. We are talking about not only the individual ingredients in a particular product, but also the processing that those ingredients have gone through. It ALL makes a difference in the quality of the product that you put into your body. The bottom line is, the daily diet needs to be balanced. Once it is balanced with the right minerals, then vitamins, then the needed ratio of protein, fats, and carbs, the body will become a well oiled machine all on it’s own. But it first has to have the necessary foundation, and the balance is built on top of that foundation.
Can you share 3 things that will help people to achieve their goals?
Absolutely! Mindset, daily diet, and proper exercise for their particular lifestyle and goals.
Toney Dunaway
Toney can be found at the following sites. I strongly suggest that you watch some of his videos – they are inspiring!
Today my guest is Laxmi Hariharan and we get an exclusive excerpt from
The First Life of Vikram Roy
The Ruby Iyer Series—by Laxmi Hariharan
When I begin to unbutton my shirt, Ash looks at me with raised eyebrows.
“Really?” She smirks. “In such a hurry?”
“It’s not what you think.” I bite out the words.
Before she can ask any further questions, I wrap the shirt around my fist and use it to break off the jagged pieces of glass on the pane. Then, pushing my arm through the square, I open the lock of the window from inside. Opening it, I grab hold of the window ledge and heave myself over, falling over promptly on the other side.
I am stunned, but bounce back on my feet quickly. Coughing out the dust which streams over my face, I tell Ash, “Come on to the front door.”
Running to the front door, I pull at the old-fashioned wooden bar which is placed across it. Pleased when it comes away in my hand, I open the door, panting with the exertion of pulling at the heavy wood. Then, grinning, I bow to Ash, who is standing at the threshold.
“Come in, your highness.” I make a mock bow.
Ash holds her nose in the air, playing her part, and walks past me. It’s gloomy inside but the moon is bright enough to light up the way. Ash follows me as I walk past an overturned chair, a large settee covered in plastic, and take in the paintings on the wall.
“It’s as if the family who lived here abandoned it without moving any of their possessions out,” she says. Holding my hand, she drags me to the staircase.
“Where are we going?”
“On a tour, dummy. Don’t you want to see what’s upstairs?”
I follow her, our shoes making clattering noises on the wooden steps, then, I hear something.
“Wait.” I stop midway up the stairs.
“What?” she says loud enough for her voice to echo around the building.
“Did you hear that?”
“No.” In the silence that follows, she laughs nervously.
Then she hears it too. A soft padding from upstairs, the unmistakable noise of nails dragging on the wooden floor. We look at each other wide-eyed. A chill runs up my back, and the hairs on my forearms spring upright.
“Come on, we have to find out what it is.” Grinning wickedly, Ash leaps ahead and runs, dragging me along.
“Ash, honestly,” I mutter, more scared than I’d like to admit.
We cross the landing of the first floor and walk towards the open door leading to the room on the far side. Once again, there’s the sound of dragging footsteps. I swallow nervously in the darkness, but chivalry gets the better of me and I walk ahead, pushing Ash behind me.
“Stay quiet,” I whisper.
In the dark I see the white of her eyes, rounded in fear. She is not as unafraid as she makes out to be. We slip into the room. The shadows here are darker, and it takes a few seconds for my eyes to adjust. Then I hear a low growl and the padding sound comes towards me, a flash of black and yellow spots.
“Ash!” I push her out of the way and jump, covering her with my body just as a leopard leaps past us, making for the door.
“Fuck, fuck, fuck!” I swear.
My heart is beating so hard it threatens to leap out of my chest. I look up to the door and am relieved to find there’s no sign of the leopard. Ash’s body is shaking below mine. Her heart, too, is thumping hard, slamming against me. I can’t tell where her pulse stops and mine begins.
“Goddammit, Ash!” I look down; worried she is having a seizure, or worse. Her face is scrunched up.
“Oh my God, are you okay?” My voice comes out all high-pitched.
“Yes. No,” her voice quivers in reply. She opens her eyes finally and I realize she is laughing, silently. At me. Again.
Something snaps inside of me and I know there is no turning back. Not today.
“That was a-a—”
“Leopard,” I say
“Gho-st?” she asks at the same time.
“Yeah, that’s our ghost,” I say, nodding.
I want to stay angry with her, but the sparks in her eyes draw me in completely.
Her skin scrapes across mine. Her dress is around her waist and one of my legs is between hers. My thigh brushes against her frock-covered midriff. The heat rushes at me through the cloth. I am surrounded by her smell. Awareness comes into her eyes at the same time. Her laughter dies and the blue of her eyes dart fire at me.
“Don’t go falling in love with me now.” She tilts her head up.
Her lips are curved. I want to taste them, slant my lips across her mouth. Bending down, I touch my lips to hers. Her breath tastes like oranges. And chocolate. She flings her arms around me and rams my body to her’s with fierce strength. It feels as if she’s vibrating, as if the shudders are running up her body and down mine.
About The First Life of Vikram Roy (Ruby Iyer Series)
His family is being held to ransom by a deadly mastermind.
Vikram never should have left his family, but when Vikram’s father brings his half-brother Vishal home, life will never be the same. Vikram thinks things will be better now that he’s gone. He’s met the love of his life, his future looks bright and then everything is shattered. Now, his family’s life is hanging in the balance, and only Vikram can do what needs to be done to save them. From the bestselling dystopian fiction author with over 200 reviews and ratings of her dystopia books across Goodreads, Amazon and other retailers.
About the origins of Ruby Iyer:
Growing up in Bombay, my daily commute to university was inevitably nightmarish. It’s just how public transport is here. The man behind you on the bus will brush up against you. You know you are going to be felt up on a crowded train platform. All you can do is accept it and get on. Or so you think. I did too, until, a young photojournalist was raped in the centre of Bombay in broad daylight. It made me furious. Nothing had changed in this city in all these years. Then, I had a vision of this young girl who would not back down; who would follow her instincts, stand up for herself regardless of consequences. Thus Ruby Iyer was born. Make no mistake, Ruby’s her own person. She leads. I follow. You can download the RUBY IYER DIARIES, the prequel novelette in the series free HERE
About The Many Lives of Ruby Iyer
2015 Readers’ Favorite (Bronze) YA Action
YA Finalist 2015 IAN Book of the Year Award
Finalist 9th Annual Indie Excellence Awards When her best friend is kidnapped, Ruby will stop at nothing to rescue him.
Criminals run the streets of Bombay. Jam-packed with the worst degenerates. The city is a shell of the pride and joy it used to be. Ruby knows something must be done, but it isn’t until her best friend is kidnapped by the despotic Dr Braganza that she knows that she and she alone must save city, save her best friend, save the world from total destruction. Armed only with Vikram, a cop-turned-rogue they are about to embark on a road they may never return from. If you’re looking for fast-paced books like Hunger Games or dystopia fiction like Angelfall, the Ruby Iyer series is perfect for you.
GIVEAWAY
The First Life of Vikram Roy, The THIRD book in the RUBY IYER Series, launches this month. To celebrate the launch of the FIRST LIFE OF VIKRAM ROY I am giving away a $30 gift card. Enter HERE. Winner will be drawn, Oct 1, 2015, and announced in my next newsletter.
DOING MY BIT
All SEPTEMBER earnings from the RUBY IYER SERIES will be donated to SAVE THE CHILDREN: SUPPORT CHILD REFUGEES OF SYRIA. All the RUBY IYER books with their brand new covers, are on SALE all this month at 99p/c & Rs 69/49. Click HERE to buy them.
YOU can also donate to SAVE THE CHILDREN directly HERE
She almost died. But when dystopia romance author Laxmi Hariharan had a near death experience, she was told to write. Laxmi is the creator of dystopian romance series, RUBY IYER SERIES (The MANY LIVES OF RUBY IYER – FINALIST Indie Excellence Awards, 2015 Readers’ Favorite, winner in the Young Adult – Action category | FINALIST 2015 IAN Book Of the Year awards. Also the bestselling The RUBY IYER DIARIES & The FIRST LIFE OF VIKRAM ROY), and the Amazon bestselling, eLit Gold winner, The Destiny of Shaitan (Bombay Chronicles, 1). If you’re looking for books like Divergent and Angelfall, you’ll love the RUBY IYER SERIES.
Laxmi writes books similar to Hunger Games while listening to electronica & progressive rock, and downing innumerable cups of extra sweet ginger-chai. She is also an avid photographer of street art and believes she was a tree — a redwood — in her past life. London is where she creates. Bombay is what fires her imagination.
Receive a free copy of THE RUBY IYER DIARIES when you sign up to her newsletter here
Reach Laxmi, on FacebookTwitterInstagram
quotidiandose 
You must be logged in to post a comment.