Cover Reveal - Feudlings in Sight by Wendy Knight

Woohoo! Got something special to announce!

Ain't it purty?

Blurb:
Boys of war suck at romance.

Charity Delyle has lived in the shadow of her Prodigy cousin and his powerful Guard since the day she was born. And she doesn’t mind—really. Except that being in Hunter’s shadow means that he can’t see her. And she’d like that to change.

Hunter has one purpose in life: Protect the Prodigy, or die trying. That means a social life, school, and even Charity come last until the war is over. For the most part, he’s okay with that—he can lose everything if he has to…except his seer.

Starting at a new school should be much safer than living in a war-ravaged Carules headquarters. But this new school is different than the others. Friendships are forged and destinies are questioned, and Hunter’s decision could cost them all everything they’ve been hoping for. 

Excerpt:
“Okay, do you want to practice the ones we learned last week or just start new ones?” She had carefully color-coded the spell book with sticky tabs — spells they had mastered, spells they had practiced, spells that would come in handy one day — she was very organized. And if the Council ever found out she put sticky tabs in a book that was over three hundred years old, they would kill her completely dead.

“Learn as much as you can, Shane. Gonna be hard to find a place to practice in the mountains of Utah, surrounded by Normals.” Hunter idly traced spells in the air, letting them fizzle and die without igniting them.

“Well, alright.” Charity flipped to the red section — spells that would come in handy one day. She started at the top. “This one is called an Al-able.” The odd word rolled awkwardly off her tongue. “It’s like… it looks like it’s sort of a flat triangle of flames.”

Hunter and Shane both walked over, studying the spell in the book before tracing it slowly into the air. The spell wouldn’t actually ignite until they lit it with the flames roiling through their blood, but they both wanted to make sure they could do it correctly so as not to explode them all to pieces or something.

“No, no, Hunter. Less harsh lines. Softer.” Charity glanced down at the page and then up at Hunter’s disaster of an attempt. Sighing she laid the book on the metal next to her and pushed herself to her feet. She took Hunter’s hand, trying hard to ignore the way her own blood seemed to explode into flames. There’s no magic there, she told herself harshly. “Like this.” She led his hand through the spell until the air smoked and the image burned in front of them. She looked up, got caught in his gold eyes. He watched her, an unreadable look on his face.

It made her heart stutter in her chest.

Before he could say anything she dropped his hand. “Now try it on your own. I can’t do everything for you, you know.” Charity grinned playfully, dodging out of the way as he tried to push her over. She rescued the book from the twisted metal and perched, watching them expectantly. “Go. Do something.”

Shane rolled his eyes. “Give the girl a book and she’s suddenly the boss.” He moved away several feet so he wouldn’t accidentally ignite her. He’d done it before, and Charity didn’t relish the idea of it happening again.

Feudlings in Sight! Available Thursday on Astraea Press, Amazon, and all other major ebook retailers!

BIO: Wendy Knight was born and raised in Utah by a wonderful family who spoiled her rotten because she was the baby. Now she spends her time driving her husband crazy with her many eccentricities (no water after five, terror when faced with a live phone call, etcetera, etcetera). She also enjoys chasing her three adorable kids, playing tennis, watching football, reading, and hiking. Camping is also big: her family is slowly working toward a goal of seeing all the National Parks in the U.S.

You can usually find her with at least one Pepsi nearby, wearing ridiculously high heels for whatever the occasion may be. And if everything works out just right, she will also be writing.

Twitter: @wjk8099
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AuthorWendyKnight
Blog: www.writethroughthenoise.blogspot.com
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7009940.Wendy_Knight

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"Friday Night Alibi" by Cassie Mae--Character Interview with Chase

I'm on a blog break through July.

I have a special guest here today--Chase from Cassie Mae's new book, Friday Night Alibi (through Random House Flirt).

There's a picture of you above, so my readers can see what you look like. Tell me, in your opinion, what is your best feature? It doesn't have to be physical.

Hmm. I'd like to think it's my adorable face but it's probably my eyes. People talk about them a lot

Ah. So you think you're adorable? Were you like this in high school? What "clique" did you best fit in with?

Swim team for the most part. But I was home schooled. So my "clique" was just me and Robbie, baby bro. But I had the community water polo and tennis teams.

Source
Looks like it can be a tough game.

You're close to your baby brother? How old is he?

He would've been ten this year. But he passed away when he was six.

I’m so sorry to hear that. If you can talk about it, do you mind telling my readers how the loss of your brother changed you?

Well even though I was home schooled I was a loud mouthed people person. After he died I kinda spent more time with my Xbox instead. I guess sometimes it's easier to play online with someone who doesn't know or doesn't give you the pity face.

Do you do anything to honor your brother’s memory?

Yeah but it's personal. Just for me and him. Hope you understand that.

I do, and good on you, Chase. On a lighter note, what’s the most embarrassing thing you've ever done?

Source
(from people at the country club?)

Well I don't get embarrassed easily but sometimes I do after the fact. Like when I mooned Kelli at the country club.

Classy. Was Kelli the only witness, or did you have a larger audience? Did you get any dates from it?

I think half the tennis players at the Sundale country club know exactly how hairy my butt is. And no dates... at least not immediately. ;) 

TMI, my friend. But this does beg the question. Actually, a couple of questions. 1. Why did you moon Kelli? 2. Was she one of the dates?

1. To see her reaction. 2. I'd say she was. She'd say she wasn't.

I guess we'll have to read the book to see what her reaction was. You mentioned playing the Xbox. If you played any games where you gave yourself a user name, what was it? And what does that name mean to you?

I picked a username that wasn't taken yet. Not much meaning to it. lol. But I like being anonymous since I sort of suck against the person I normally play against.

Interesting. I think there's a story there. Hopefully it's explained in the book.

I understand Kelli's not a fan of yours and is quite vocal about it. What is it about her that keeps you coming back for more abuse?

She wants me lol. Nah I'm addicted to her personality. People are always either walking on eggshells cuz they know about Robbie or they get embarrassed by my sense of humor or they know I come from money... blah blah. But Kelli dishes crap out as fast as I do. She sees through my bull. She matches my intensity. She treats me so differently. I'm always surprised by her. I can handle the abuse because I deserve it ;) but also because it comes from her.

And dang that was a long answer.

Two last questions.

What do you wear to bed?

Lol! I wear fuzzy pink pajamas with bunny slippers and the butt flap.

Source

Um...

Are you ticklish?

And yes I’m super ticklish. But Kelli has only discovered the ticklish spot on my knee. I’m hoping she doesn’t find the other places because I know she’d use that against me.

Yes, when you’re ticklish, it gives your enemies power over you. Good luck with keeping that a secret, Chase. I'm afraid Kelli would have to much fun with power like that.

Thanks for dropping by today.

Okay, peeps. Not only did you get to talk to this gorgeous man, but there's a giveaway!

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"Heaven's Just a Prayer Away" by Diony George

I'm on a blog break through July.

Sometimes we wonder how, with so many people on earth, we matter to God. Like birdsongs in a city of sounds, answers to our prayers are easy to miss—unless we’re listening. Through inspiring personal stories, scripture, and prose, Heaven’s Just A Prayer Away answers many questions about communicating with and drawing closer to Jesus Christ and our Father in Heaven.

Here is a brief description of the book:

“Counsel with the Lord in all thy doings, and he will direct thee for good; yea when thou liest down at night lie down unto the Lord, that he may watch over you in your sleep; and when thou risest in the morning let they heart be full of thanks unto God.” –Alma 37:37

Before we came to earth, we lived in heavenly realms. We knew our Heavenly Father. We walked and talked with Him. We heard His voice. We felt His love. In Heaven’s Just a Prayer Away, beloved author Diony George teaches us how to reestablish that relationship with Him here on earth. 

This is the Place LDS Superstore

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Diony George is a wife, stay-at-home mom of seven, grandmother of three, motivational speaker, and the author of four books. Through her writing and public speaking she loves helping others draw closer to God. An avid reader whose favorite genre is romantic suspense, Diony also loves to travel, sew, and bake—especially pies and homemade bread. Born and raised in Alaska, she currently resides in Salt Lake City with her husband and family. Mrs. George can be reached through her personal website at http://www.dionygeorge.com

A Change of Plans Audiobook

I'm so excited about this! A Change of Plans is now available in audiobook. I'm a huge audiobook lover, and I'm picky about narrators. 

As authors, we create this world in our minds. We know how we think each of the characters are saying things, the emphasis they give. I've heard many other authors say they hate hearing their books in an audiobook. So, it was with some trepidation that I started listening to Karen Kruper's interpretation of MY characters.

It was such a relief because I really enjoyed it! Kruper catches Elle's bubbly enthusiasm, Lyn's more low-key tone, and Braedon's seriousness. She gives Jori a fun Finnish accent, Jimmy a great Texas drawl, and Maria a Spanish accent. Jack's voice is rougher and gruffer, just like it should be. Emily was brisker than I had imagined, but it fit her character, so I was able to move easily from the voice in my head to the one in my ear.

As for the story itself. Well, I'm biased. :D

Here's a sample:

Do you have anything in audiobook? If yes, are you happy with it?

If not, have you ever considered it?

Cover Reveal - Courage by Carrie Butler

I'm on a blog break through July.

I interrupt this blog break to bring you ...

Courage

 

Book Description:

Rena Collins never thought she’d long for the past—back when affection from Wallace, her freakishly strong boyfriend, was the most dangerous aspect of her life. But now that the human-altering organization known as ERA has gone on the offensive, nothing is safe. Her bloodline is exposed, her relationships torn apart, and just when it seems like things can’t get any worse, ERA ups the ante. To save mankind from forced evolution, Rena will have to mend her broken ties and form a resistance... hand-in-hand with the one she hurt most.

Note: Courage (Mark of Nexus #2) features four unique points-of-view. While the novel stands alone, it is best enjoyed after Strength (Mark of Nexus #1).

I read and thoroughly enjoyed the first book in the series, Strength. Can't wait for October!

 

Launch Party for "Spirit" by Lauren Ritz

I'm on a blog break through July.

I interrupt this blogging break for a PAR-TAY!

Welcome to the Spirit Online Launch Party!

Answer any or all of the following questions, but remember that those with the most points will win the prizes:

• 1/2 point:  At what point does a habit become a disease (as classified by the DSMIV)

• Spirit (1 point): Why doesn't Val drink coffee?

You can check out sample pages of Spirit here to get your answer about Val's coffee.

• A Change of Plans (1 point): What's the first physical attribute that Lyn notices about Braedon?

Here's a link to some sample pages of A Change of Plans where you can get your answer about Braedon.

Now go back to the party here to post your answers. And to finish up the party, we have Lauren Ritz, at Eclectic. 

Shahira & the Flying Elfs by Anna del C. Dye

On blogging break through July.

Friendship should be forever…

Once upon a time the elfs’ lives were quiet and peaceful. Then mankind and their enemies happened.

However, the giant eagles have been the Elfs’ friends for millennia—but has something turned the majestic birds against them now?

They say that in perilous times you discover who your true friends are. When a mad wizard wreaks havoc, can the elfs alone obtain victory against him? Save the eagle race? And the mankind caravan?

See what awaits you in “Shahira & the Flying Elfs” the new epic fantasy novel by Anna del C. Dye. Written in the genre of J.R.R. Tolkien’s works and the Shanara series, this story is full of action, romance, and secrets. It will keep you turning the pages.

AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE

 
Anna was born in the extreme South along some famous beaches. She is the third child and twins with her sister Elena. She grew up with four other siblings being placed in the middle. The green eyed, brown haired author found a mother in her husband’s mother and loves her dearly. She accredits her mother-in-law with teaching her many things in life. 

The author loves reading, but had few opportunities to do so while growing up. Once married she was introduced to the Hardy Boys and Nancy Drew books that she admits to having collected, which collections she still retains. They were what wet her appetite. A few years ago she was introduced to Tolkien’s Lord of the Ring’s and to J. K. Rowling’s writings, which she loves.

Some of Anna’s writing recognitions: She received the Editor’s Choice Award from the International Library of Poetry and had her article entitled A New American Mother published by Desert Saints Magazine. Her short story entitled Amerine—Fairy Princess won an award in the Oquirrh chapter contest and was published by Kalkion Magazine and other articles about family and relationship have been published frequently in the MOMS CLUBÒ of Salt Lake Valley-West.

IWSG

I interrupt this blogging break to bring you:

Click here to find out more.

Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!

Well, the month of the book release is over. Anyone who's read my blog for a while knows that I have been worried about a lot of stuff related to sending my book baby out in the world. The launch turned out to be a lot of fun. My reflections on that event are here. Jordan McCollum, whom I co-launched with, and I also did an event at the American Fork Library. A couple of people came, for which I was grateful.

I think what worried me the most was what took place last Saturday. A solo signing.

So, I posted in a couple of my writing groups for suggestions on how to make it a fun day (I did drag my husband with me because he doesn't have problems talking to people about my book). I thought I'd share some of the great suggestions:

• Chas Hathaway suggested balloon marketing.
• Adrienne Monson said acting like a Walmart greeter and chatting with people made it easier. This was a very common theme.
• Another author said she preferred solo signings rather than double ones where she felt obligated to do the same thing the other author was doing--even if that was just sitting at the table waiting for people to come to him/her. Otherwise it felt like she was trying to hog the people.

I love how author Tristi Pinkston put it:

Here's something I learned a long time ago. A signing is what you make it. If you go in there with the attitude that you're going to have fun, enjoy the experience, have fun talking to people and employees, and live in the moment of knowing that you're an author and you have reached a life-long goal, you'll have a fantastic time regardless of how many books you sell.

If you go in thinking that this is awful and you are embarrassed/shy/reluctant/whatever, and that it's not worth your time unless you sell x quantity of books, you'll have a rotten time regardless of how many books you sell.

Decide the experience you want to have and then create it.

Armed with some great suggestions and Tristi's philosophy, I had a great afternoon.

AND a wonderful surprise. I used to belong to an online romance critique group that got too small to continue. The three of us that were left are still friends on Facebook. As I stood at my table yesterday, a couple entered the bookstore, carrying a book--opened to a place where the author had signed it.

My awesome friend Melanie Macek (who lives in Texas) from that old critique group made arrangements with some family members of hers to drive all the way to Layton to bring me an autographed copy of Mel's book, that I got to critique. They picked up a paper copy of A Change of Plans for me to sign for Mel (she's in my acknowledgements).

Melanie never said a word! *sniff* It totally made my day.

Yeah. Solo signings can totally rock.

What are your experiences at book signings, either as an author or a reader? Have you seen (or done) any clever approaches to make it fun for everyone?

The Rebels of Cordovia by Linda Weaver Clarke

I'm on blog break through July.

 In The Rebels of Cordovia by Linda Weaver Clarke, the time period is set in the late 1700s. Centuries after the legendary Robin Hood, a group of men and women find themselves fighting for the same cause: for their rights, for freedom of speech, and equality. Robin’s Rebels realize they must fight against the tyranny of a wicked king and help the people survive this oppression. In the small country of Cordovia, groups of rebels begin springing up, but its Robin’s Rebels who get the attention of the king.

In this battle for freedom, a tender love story begins to blossom. Daniel, a rogue and a leader of the Freemen, doesn't realize that the sweet feminine woman he has met and is falling for happens to be the leader of Robin’s Rebels. Realizing the importance of uniting all the rebel groups, Daniel tries to recruit Robin’s Rebels but they refuse. Now he has to find a way to convince them. When he finds out the leader is actually a woman, what will his reaction be?

You can read the first chapter here.  You can buy the book here.