Category: About Me

May 9, 2013

What’s New? Authors, Books and MEme

So this blog post is a little (okay, a lot) “me” focused, today. I was honored by a very talented author, TW “Todd” Brown recently when he tagged me on his blog. Someone somewhere started a meme (have you noticed that’s two “me’s”???) where an author answers a few questions and then passes along the challenge to three other authors they find to be talented.

I can’t tell you how much it means to me that someone as talented and as well respected in the horror genre has chosen me as one of his three, as well as to be included with such gifted writers as Gregory Carrico and Catie Rhodes.

And just so it’s not totally me focused – let me tell you a little bit about the three people above. Not only are they great writers, but they’re remarkable and supportive friends as well.

I haven’t known Todd as long as I have Greg and Catie, but I can tell you, he does a lot to help others out – from charity anthologies to his current goal of raising $1000 for Camp NaNoWriMo. He’s currently at $971, so if a few of you have a couple of dollars to spare this month, maybe we could push him over his goal line. Todd, dude, you really should do an Authors Give Back post for me one day. I think I’ve mentioned a time or twenty how much I really really like his ZOMBLOG and DEAD series. If you enjoy The Walking Dead, you should try these. They’re not just zombie books. They’re character driven, well-written and I think you’ll be hard pressed to stop reading once you start.

Both Catie and Greg had awesome stories in the TALES FROM THE MIST anthology.

And, Catie just recently released her debut novel, FOREVER ROAD. It’s a great paranormal read. Catie manages to catch the spirit of small town living and it’s people within the pages of this book. There’s definitely a few people in there that remind me of people I know having grown up in a small town. The heroine is someone you can relate to and want to know more about. I can’t wait for the next book in this series. If you haven’t, you should really check out Catie’s blog. It’s one of the most entertaining out there in the blogosphere – especially if you like the paranormal, the dark side of humanity and true crime. Catie also shares the spotlight with fellow writers with her Playlist series.

Last but not definitely not least, Greg Carrico’s newest release, CHILDREN OF THE PLAGUE, is an apocalyptic fantasy that will have you lost in the pages until the very end. He’s great at world building and character development. Greg has a wonderful imagination that will take you on an epic journey along with his protagonists. His blog posts are hilarious and you should really check those out. He keeps me laughing. And Greg helps out his fellow authors by showcasing them in his 30 Minute read posts. Very cool!

Okay, so if you’re still with me, here are those questions I’m supposed to answer.

What are you working on now?

I’m behind due to life issues, BUT I should have PREDATOR out soon. While it’s not the first I’ve written in my Courting Justice series with Court Investigator, Tori Matthews – it is the first I’ll be releasing. It’s novella length and I believe it’s the perfect place to start the series.

Three missing girls. A family in crisis. A predator on the hunt. Can court investigator, Tori Matthews, find out the truth before it’s too late?

I’m also working on getting THE CONSUMING formatted and it should be out soon as well as a single short story. It was included in the TALES FROM THE MIST ANTHOLOGY last year.

Serena knows her late uncle wasn’t crazy. So when she inherits his sprawling Carolina mansion and leaves the big city to restore both his home and his name, she uncovers a mystery that could cost much more than her sanity. As the house slowly reveals its dark secrets, and the extent of her peril becomes evident, she’ll settle for escaping with her life—if it isn’t already too late.

The cover was done by Jeffrey Kosh. Isn’t it spooky?

For those that sign up for my brand new newsletter, I’ll gift an e-copy of THE CONSUMING as soon as it’s available.

What experiences have influenced you?

Definitely have to say that twenty years worth of investigating child abuse/neglect and custody issues has given me some unique perspectives. I can say I’ve seen the very worst of people and the very best. From evil to near Saint-like behavior. I’ve had guns and knives pulled on me, been threatened and stalked. Been cursed at and thanked. I’ve been alone in places that even the cops don’t go alone.

Having been blessed with a great family and growing up in a small town have also had a tremendous influence on me. I think I have a lot to share.

How would you describe your writing process?

Have an idea. Start writing. When I get to the point I need to know more about a character, I figure that out – take a few notes and get back to writing. I research as I need the info. Then I rewrite. Throw a bunch out. Keep a few things in the cut folder for use later maybe. Rewrite some more. And some more. I’m without a doubt a pantser. I enjoy figuring out what’s next and am often surprised.

I usually have more ideas than I can get to at any given time, so when I do have one, I’ll write when the idea strikes until I have enough down that I can remember where I’m going with it and put it aside until I have finished whatever I’m currently working on. Then I choose from those I have pieces of to start on next.

What is the hardest part of writing?

Like Todd and Greg – finishing is the hardest part for me.

What would you like to try as a writer that you haven’t yet?

I wrote a short story for Christmas one year. I shared it recently with my critique group. They all thought it would make a wonderful Hallmark Christmas movie. So my next thing to learn is scriptwriting. I think it will be fun! Yeah, okay. It’ll probably be hard work too, but still fun!

Who are the authors you most admire?

Dean Koontz and Stephen King of course influenced the horror writer in me. I’m in awe of Nora Robert’s prolificness and her ability to keep the writing fresh.

As for indie writers, I have to say: Christine Claire McKenzie, Stacey Joy Netzel, Dale Amidei, Tamara Ward, Cate Dean, D.D. Scott, Alicia and Roy Street, PJ Sharon, Natalie Owens, and the rest of the WG2E Street Team. I must also mention Aiden James, Tiffany A. White, Sandy Rowland, Myndi Shafer, and Amber West. And of course, Todd Brown, Greg Carrico and Catie Rhodes. One thing I admire about each of these authors besides writing great books I love to read is their generous spirit. They all help other writers and find time to help in other causes as well.

What scares you?

Some days – everything. Others – not much.

I think my biggest recurring fear is that my work isn’t good enough. And that after all the classes, the learning, the writing and the rewriting, the editing and the re-editing, it won’t be enough. When I have those days, I just have to take a few moments to breathe. To remember that people like Todd Brown and others I respect have said I’m talented. And that’s usually enough to calm my fears – until the next time.

So now for the three extraordinarily talented authors that I’m tagging to participate in this meme:

Stacey Joy Netzel

Amber West

Myndi Shafer

I highly recommend their books and their blogs.

Stacey has several books and short stories out that I have enjoyed. It’s hard to pick just one. But I did love LOST IN ITALY. It’s a romantic suspense that keeps you turning the page.

Amber just released her debut novel, THE RUTH VALLEY MISSING. This is a clean mystery with some twists you won’t see coming.

And Myndi has written an excellent fantasy – the SHRILUGH Series. I read the first, waited impatiently for the second and devoured it upon release. I’m now awaiting the third. Love it!

I’m always curious – what authors influence you? What are you afraid of?

As always, thanks for reading!

March 19, 2013

Local DFW Authors Book Signing Event

I’m so excited! I’ll be doing my very first book signing Thursday night in Cleburne, TX from 5:30pm to 9:00pm. It will be at the Wright Plaza located at 115 S. Main St. 76033. If you’re in the area, I hope you’ll stop by and say hello. I’ll have copies of TALES FROM THE MIST available. TFTM is a horror/paranormal anthology that includes my short story, The Consuming.

TALES FROM THE MIST will take you on a journey into the dark world of the paranormal. These twelve stories vary in their degree of horror, yet all reach across the boundaries of their genres into the chilling realms of the macabre. Witches, ghosts, shape-shifters and vampire rats are some of the creatures that reign within these pages. Authors included are: Scott Nicholson, Rhonda Hopkins, Marty Young, Cate Dean, Tamara Ward, Meredith Bond, Catie Rhodes, Greg Carrico, Mitzi Flyte, Natalie G. Owens, *lizzie starr and Stacey Joy Netzel.

Two of my friends will also be there.

David Walker will have copies of HEAVEN SENT, a collection of stories of real people’s devotion and spiritual insight to inspire and lift you up. David is a Christian husband, father and grandfather, a grounded pilot, a would-be Nashville star, and a near-scratch golfer who had to give up the game because of shoulder problems. A graduate of Duke University, he spent 42 years as a health insurance agent. Most of that career was spent in Texas, but for a few years he traveled many other states. He started writing about 20 years ago and has been a member and leader in several writers’ groups. His books, the devotional Heaven Sent and the novella series FANCY, are now available in paperback and in Kindle and Nook formats. http://davidnwalker.com/heaven-sent/

AND

Richard Weatherly will have copies of CLOSED DOORS, A TRILOGY which includes a novella and 2 short stories. Rich Weatherly’s professional career spanned several decades. Much of that career included technical writing and copy writing. He also worked in media production and corporate photography. After retiring from the corporate world, Rich focused his attention on creative writing. He continues to work on a series of short stories, and a collection of works that will include poetry, photography and miscellaneous writings. Rich Weatherly is a descendant of one of General Marion’s militia at the Battle of Cowpens during the Revolutionary War. His maternal Great-Grandmother’s father scouted western Dallas, County and was numbered among the first 50 families to settle western Dallas, Co., Texas.

You can connect with Rich at:
Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Rich-Weatherly/e/B008OHMH98
Facebook, Author page: www.facebook.com/pages/Rich-Weatherly-Author/235488943239220
My Writing page of blog: http://richweatherly.com/my-writing/
Twitter: @RichWeatherly43

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It looks like the event will have a little something for everyone. The following is info from the press release from Masters Management Group (www.facebook.com/MMGServices) about the event as well as a few other links some of the authors sent me:

The local shop owners at the Wright Plaza Shopping Mall on South Main in Cleburne, have graciously offered to host a night to meet many local and a few not so local authors who are promoting a wide variety of published books. Being held Thursday March 21^st, 5:30-9p, genres of books include children’s, personal stories, Christian, novels, pictorial, local history and self-help. There will also be some short presentations by some of the authors on their area of expertise or other topics they want to share with the audience. Some of the shops will also be open for you to browse through and see their wonderful selections of gifts and other items.

Most of the authors have also graciously offered to donate a copy of their books to be put in a door prize drawing, so those who attend may win a book before the night is over. There will also be a pair of tickets to one of the great Plaza Theater plays. We may have a few other surprises as well.

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We invite you to come and meet many authors including Burleson’s own Sarah Nelms Churman who wrote “Powered On”about her journey from deafness to a world of hearing through the procedure of getting an Esteem implant. The story of her desire to be able to hear all those sounds that had been a mystery to her all of her life is a great story. You might also recognize Sarah from her many appearances since the YOUTUBE video that was taken as she “heard” with her implant for the very first time. You can search for it by looking for “29 years old and hearing myself for the first time” it has over 16 million views. You can locate Sarah’s fan page by going to facebook and www.facebook.com/sarahmchurman.

We are also pleased to have Sara Zink author of “20 Tips for Power Chicks” who will be sharing her book as well as the information on the publishing service she also provides for other authors wanting to get published. If you have been thinking about writing a book, or are in the process of searching for a publisher you won’t want to miss out on her presentation at 6:30 during the authors night event. You can find more about Sarah on her website http://www.SarahZink.com .

Doug Petersen shares inspirational messages entitled “Thoughts of the Day.” He began sending these life-affirming thoughts of the day a few years ago. The random, spontaneous thoughts share one common theme — the focus on personal values, gratitude, serving others, and heartfelt passions. His series of books helps bring the joy of life into focus to combat everyday stress. His last book, Inspire: A Year of Daily Inspirational Thoughts was awarded the 2012 Global eBook Award for the best Inspirational/Visionary Non-Fiction.

Doug Petersen is a decorated Vietnam “Dustoff” (medical evacuation) pilot and served more than two decades as a United States Army aviator. After retiring from the military, he worked for a financial services company in Texas. Today he shares his inspirational thoughts and experiences to thousands through his free “Thought of the Day” newsletter, social media and as a professional inspirational speaker and award-winning author. Doug is also a professional member of the National Speakers Association. (www.inspirevalues.com , doug@inspirevalues.com) [information provided by Doug Petersen] Doug resides in the Benbrook area.

You can also connect with Doug at Facebook: www.facebook.com/douglasnpetersen

Shana Duty’s first endeavor at authoring a book is a collection of beautiful photos that share the memory of loved ones remembered in road side memorials. Shana’s story began as she was traveling the country with her truck driver husband Conor. He was also the one who encouraged her to finish and publish the book. In a very sad and ironic turn of events his life would serve as the ultimate inspiration, but you will have to read/visit “Crossroads“ to find out how this pictorial story ends. Shana is a resident of Burleson.

Kellie Coats Gilbert “Mother of Pearl” is the story of HOW FAR WILL A MOTHER GO FOR HER DAUGHTER? The character in the book is Barrie Graeber who has two great kids, a loving husband, and a respected job as the high school counselor in her close-knit community. Without warning, everything unravels when her teenage daughter, Pearl, is betrayed by friends and lashes out. Nothing prepares this mother for the helplessness that follows when her attempts to steer her daughter back on course fail and Pearl shuts her out . . . or when she discovers the unthinkable about her nemesis, the football coach. Emotionally riveting and profoundly moving, MOTHER OF PEARL brings us into the heart of a mother bound by an incredible burden, who ultimately finds she must recognize her own vulnerability and learn to trust in something much bigger. One of the reviews for Kellie’s book shared by Lisa Wingate, National bestselling, award-winning author of Dandelion Summer and Blue Moon Bay was “A cautionary tale for our times, Mother of Pearl is a compelling journey through loss and longing, grief and redemption, crime and justice. Kellie Coates Gilbert unfolds her story with the sensitivity of a skilled writer .” wrote Lisa. [Information taken from Kellie Coates Gilbert website] http://kelliecoatesgilbert.com/

Linda loveGarten (aka Mrs. Linda Goodwin) has recently retired from twenty years of teaching Art and Spanish in a Dallas middle school. A great lover of the beauty and spirit that’s all around but sometimes hard to see, she creates ethereal images in words, paint and various media. She holds degrees in Art, Spanish, and ancient Latin American cultures from universities in Texas and California; and has studied/traveled in Mexico, Costa Rica, Peru, and China. Ms. loveGarten lives in Texas where she joyfully explores her art and travels with her husband Richard, also a retired Dallas teacher. Between them, they celebrate six grandchildren. You can get more information by visiting http://www.lovegarten.com.

Laurie Orloff author of “How To Handle Your Cranky and Stressed Out Parents (A Teen Survival Guide)” is originally from the Chicago area, has two sons and currently lives in Dallas. As well as being an author and speaker, she has been a musician since childhood. She teaches violin and viola and has been a symphony musician since she was 15 years old. After the birth of her first child, she dedicated herself to becoming the best parent she could possibly be- and discovered that much of it revolves around being a role model that is happy, optimistic, respectful and extremely adaptable! Laurie got her start on writing about parenting shortly after the birth of her first son when a letter of hers was read on 20/20 regarding nighttime sleeping arrangements for babies. She hasn’t stopped writing since then. You can find more about Laurie and her book by visiting http://www.parentteenalliance.com/book-list/how-to-handle-your-cranky-and-stressed-out-parents-a-teen-survival-guide/about-the-book.html . [Information from the website for Parent Teen Alliance]

Sharon Gresham author of “Paul’s Lifesong of Joy and Unity” is a former pastor’s wife and missionary, earned her MA Theology from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 2008 in biblical studies and systematic theology. She enjoys investigating biblical languages. She is a PhD student at B. H. Carroll Theological Institute studying Bible Theology and lives in Burleson, Texas.

Mollie Mims “Johnson County History Book” and “Images of America Cleburne” is a Cleburne native who has been in publishing since she was a youngster. Mollie is a former employee of the local Cleburne Times Review. She researched the local history of Cleburne and Johnson County compiling stories and tracking down the “thousand words” held in many historical photographs. Her books are not only informative they are beautiful catching a distant home town that so many of us remember in bits and pieces of time. You can order Mollie’s book at http://www.amazon.com/Cleburne-Images-America-Arcadia-Publishing/dp/0738571199 . Or better yet come and purchase directly from her at our event.

Michele Nelson Schmidt author and illustrator of “ Jonathan James and the What if Monster” shares on her “WHAT IF MONSTERS WEBSITE” that she has a MAGICAL LIFE! She gets to go all over the country visiting schools and telling kids all about her books and how she was able to finally be doing what she loves for a living. Her current book and upcoming books are part of the USBORNE publishing company. A local sales rep for their company Alyssa Truman has been on a personal mission to bring the author to Johnson County to share it with all the kids in our community. Alyssa also has reached out to local businesses and individuals to make sure each child who would like a book can have the opportunity to get one. In a recent facebook post Alyssa shared “I belong to the most amazing community EVER!!! I am in awe and humbled”, after a local networker Coralee Flug, developer of the online networking groups called Connections helped her network and gain support to purchase at least 25 books for those kids who might not be able to purchase them during the visits to local schools.. The CONNECTIONS groups all have the motto that we are all stronger together than we are apart, and the business owners all pull together to help when asked. Schools currently on the schedule include Nola Dunn in Burleson and Deer Creek in Crowley. Michelle will also be visiting with Pathway Preparatory Christian Academy in Joshua, which is an open event for parents with school age children. You can still purchase books by contacting Alyssa through her online bookstore at www.alyssasbookshop.com or visit Michelle on her site www.whatifmonsters.com .

Here’s a few more links for Michelle and her books:

Website: www.michellepaints.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/WhatifMonsterLovers
Buy the books at: https://L2007.myubam.com/search?q=michelle+nelson

Scott Odom author “Stand Up – I lost my leg to cancer, not my dream” shares how he always dreamed of growing up about becoming a professional athlete. He was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a form of bone cancer at age fourteen. His dreams and life were put on hold while he fought the horrible disease. The team that Scott now plays with is the AMP1 guys and they have traveled all over showing that they can play basketball much like anyone else. In his book, Scott shares how he was discouraged by the fact that the only teams were using wheelchairs only to compete. And that is how AMP1 was founded. He says “I wrote a book to tell my story about the things I went through with cancer and losing my leg. I talk about my life before and my life during and after this disesae. Also how I got back in the game and how I dealt with all the things I had to deal with not only cancer but as an amputee. I hope my story is one of inspiration, motivation, and encouragement.” Scott is now starting the process to take his beloved AMP1 to 501c3 status and work towards creating the league he and many others believes will be a big part of competitive basketball. You can learn more about Scott and Amp1 by visiting their site at http://www.amp1basketball.com.

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Tracy Marroquin is our host for this event and the owner of Simply Zinful. She is going to be having a wine tasting and serving snacks in her shop. When asked about hosting the event Tract said “I would love to host this, I enjoy offering opportunities for the community to share and enjoy this space as well as giving all our shops the opportunity to gain new customers”. Tracy also hosts several evening events every month including “First Friday at the Wright Plaza” , “Girls Night out at the Wright Plaza” and an annual Wine Festival. She also added “Our wine festival is in the planning stages already for this year and promises to be bigger and better than last year with more wineries, vendors and some other great surprises. Watch for date and ticket sales opening soon!

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Wow! Lots of great stuff, right? I do hope you’ll check out this event. You can join on facebook to get up to the minute information: https://www.facebook.com/events/412649022153769/

If you’re there, please stop by my table. I’d love to chat with you a few minutes and meet you face to face.

December 19, 2012

Who Needs Self-Esteem Anyway?

I’ve discovered over the years that visiting with my nieces can have a detrimental effect on my ego. I love them dearly – but ouch!

At Thanksgiving, my oldest niece lit into me because I hadn’t colored my hair. Now granted, it was looking pretty bad, but I was thinking of just letting the gray grow out. I’m fortunate in that it’s that pretty color of gray and I sort of wanted to see what it would look like.

But my nieces have always given me a hard time – calling me “that old gray-haired woman” even when I was in my 30′s and not a gray hair showed. I was very diligent about keeping it colored back then. You see, my dad’s side of the family has premature gray and I got my first gray hair when I was 20. Yeah….happy birthday to me! LOL

Then, I got my cat 12 years ago and I became “the old gray-haired cat lady”. I have one cat. ONE! Ugh!

So before we celebrated our Christmas last weekend (we celebrated early because one of my great-nieces will be with her dad for Christmas this year) I dutifully colored my hair to it’s proper auburn shade and figured I was safe. Why I’d think that, I have no idea. *sigh*

The younger kids have always loved sitting in my lap and sleeping on me. They would tell me I was comfortable and “fluffy”. LOL It was a trade off…self-esteem vs. kids loving to cuddle. Self-esteem lost.

Anyway, over the past year, I’ve lost quite a bit of weight and everyone was telling me how wonderful I looked and I was feeling pretty good about myself. Then one of my nieces popped off and said, “Yeah, for nearly fifty you look really good.”

Now my nieces have a hard time remembering ANYTHING, but for some reason they’ve always been able to tell me how many years it is until my 50th birthday. Go figure!

I’ve given up on trying to have any sort of self-esteem around these three lovely young women, whom I love dearly. BUT — I am a writer. And I will get even. Bwahahahaha!

I’ll bet you all have nice loving nieces and nephews, don’t you? Do any of you suffer the way I do? Share your ego-busting stories in the comments. Or, you can share your wonderful stories as well. I’ll survive.

December 14, 2012

LAST WEEKEND ON EARTH? HOW WILL YOU SPEND IT?

Just google 12/21/2012 and you’ll get about 156 MILLION results. The Mayan calendar ends on that date and of course there’s all kinds of speculation as to why.

Some prophesy the end of the world. And there’s all kinds of gloom and doom and people stockpiling supplies for the zombie and other types of apocalypses. I could spell many of these out or give you links but, I think most people have already done their own research and decided what they believe will happen (or not).

Zombie Apocalypse meme

We’ve survived several of these “end of the world” scenarios over the past twelve years. I see no reason, we won’t survive this one as well. But the good thing about this one? I think it’s been built up so much and for so long that it’s given us a chance to think about our lives. Where we are and where we want to be. And more importantly WHO we are and who we want to be.

So what do I believe? I believe we have a chance to make a new beginning. Not just for ourselves but for our world. I’m not naive enough to think people will change overnight. Or that even most will. I can hope though.

Okay…I just reminded myself of Sandra Bullock in Miss Congeniality. “I really do want world peace.” <sniff>

Since I’ve had some time to reflect on where I want to be and how I need to change, here are a few of my goals for the new beginning:

Do more for others.
Be kinder to myself.
Don’t procrastinate.
Make goals, plans and follow through to achieve my dreams.
Help others achieve their dreams.
Spend more time with family and friends.
Get healthy and in better shape.

I know I need to break those down into doable tasks and I will. Those are just the big picture goals to make me a better me.

So what will I be doing this potentially last weekend on earth – just in case I’m wrong? I’ll be spending it with family. My parents are in town. One of my great nieces will be with her father when we celebrate our family Christmas on Christmas Eve, so we’re celebrating with her early. I have such special nieces and nephews. I’m truly blessed with the family I have.

I also plan on getting lost in a book or two. Do you want some great reads to help you through the next week? TALES FROM THE MIST, is on sale for only .99! That’s 12 chilling short stories for less than a dollar. This horror/paranormal anthology has short stories from Catie Rhodes and me.

Tales_From_the_Mist_cover - final (1)

Amazon US Amazon UK Barnes & Noble Smashwords KOBO Paperback

It should be .99 at most of those retailers. You’ll need to use coupon codeVW36V at Smashwords – but you can get any format you like there. (The paperback is $14.98.)

And some of my author friends from the WG2E Street Team have banded together for the Last Weekend on Earth to give you some great reads and a chance to win an iTunes gift card! Check out their blogs for more info on their wonderful books. There’s something for everyone!

Anna Erishkigal’s Blog

Catie Rhodes’s Full-Tilt Backwoods Boogie (Catie’s post will be up on Saturday.)

CC Mackenzie’s Romance with Fizz and Fangs

Dale Amidei’s Vae Obscurum

PJ Sharon’s Extraordinary Stories of an Average Teenage Life

Stacy Green’s Turning The Page

Want a chance to win a $35 gift card from iTunes? Here’s your chance!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

And just for fun:

Beth's Bite - The Consuming

I love hearing from you. How will you spend this weekend? Do you think the world will end on the 21st? Will there be a major apocalypse? Or is this a new beginning and what changes will you make?

As always — thanks for reading!

UPDATE: The winner of the $40 iTunes gift card is Susie Lindau! Congrats, Susie!!!

December 3, 2012

Authors Give Back Series

Just a quick note to let you guys know that I was asked about my Authors Give Back series for the Asta Publications December Newsletter. You can check out the post here.

I’ll have a new AGB post next Tuesday. Tomorrow check back by for a guest post from Author J. Lawrence. He sort of hijacked my blog.

October 17, 2012

Release Day: TALES FROM THE MIST

I am super excited. Today is the official release day for TALES FROM THE MIST, a horror/paranormal anthology. My very first published fiction, The Consuming, is included and I am honored to be among the other 11 very talented authors.

TALES FROM THE MIST is now available at any of the following:

Amazon U.S. Amazon U.K. Barnes and Noble Smashwords KOBO

Besides some great prizes that the anthology team is giving away, I’m also giving away an individual gift to someone who leaves a comment. Keep reading to find out more!

TALES FROM THE MIST back of the cover blurb:

From Joe McKinney, Bram Stoker Award-winning author of Flesh Eaters and Mutated: “Tales From The Mist is one of those rare anthologies that gets it right from the first story to the last. It’s a magnificent feast of horror from some of the most assured voices working today. From cold-blooded tales of revenge to Faustian bargains to terrifying journeys into the dark corners of our world, these stories will make the shivers climb your back.”

From TW Brown, author of Dead: The Ugly Beginning: “To have a collection assembled by such a talented group of authors makes this THE anthology to own if you are a fan of horror.”

From Bill Hopkins, Author of Courting Murder: “I’ve grown up loving to be scared. Thus, when I had a chance to read Tales From The Mist, I jumped at the chance and jumped when I read the stories. All these stories are worth your while…”

The Consuming blurb:

Excerpt from The Consuming:

I had just put my arm through the pink sleeve and wrapped the soft material around me when I noticed the journal on the desk. Open. I hadn’t left it that way. Maybe Devon had been doing some reading.

As I picked it up, the words jumped out at me, made me tremble.

Serena,
My dear niece, if you’re reading this, please know I never stopped loving you, and I continued to keep track of you through the years. I’m so proud of the many things you’ve accomplished in your young life. You’ve designed some beautiful buildings and your legacy will live on.
I know you’ve probably heard the rumors, but I’m not crazy. I’ll try to explain in the short time I have left. I seem to have been given a reprieve for the moment, a few minutes of clarity, and I fully intend to use it to warn you. This house was originally built by your great, great grandparents, Jesse and Gretchen Billingham. They disappeared in nineteen twenty–eight. Jesse’s brother, Edgar, lived in the house until his suicide two years later. Naturally, it’s a part of the past no one ever speaks of.
When I researched and found the house for sale, I bought it, thinking I would restore it as a tribute to our ancestors and leave you a home of which you could be proud, as an apology for the years I wasn’t there for you. Please forgive me. If I’d only known, I never would have put you in danger. How foolish of me to discount the rumblings from the people in town. They like things the way they are and I simply assumed they didn’t want ghosts—real or imagined—resurrected. I should have listened. You must listen. I want you to leave this house alone. Don’t stay in it. Nothing I have is worth risking your precious life for. Do not let yourself fall under the assumption that it’s only the townspeople…I can feel them coming for me and know I don’t have much longer. The spirits are strong. Stronger than before. I think it’s the kindred blood running through our veins which puts us at a greater risk, so please

And that’s where it ended. With a large ink stain running down the rest of the page. It was dated the day my uncle died.

Blog Hop and Prizes:

We have gift cards to give away to three lucky winners. To find out more and enter to win go to our Beach Book Blast website. You’ll also need to click on the individual authors sites below and gather the needed info. Some of the other authors are giving away individual prizes as well.

On each blog you’ll find a ‘hidden’ picture. Black smoke, a haunted house, Lilith, a bookstore, a lady under water, calla lilies, a cemetery, a light switch, coffin, a dead woman… and a rat. Link 11 will take you back to the Beach Book Blast website to record your answers in the rafflecopter. Find each scavenger hunt item and you’ll be entered 11 times for our prizes of 3 gift cards!

*lizzie starr~~starrwords www.starrwords.blogspot.com

Tamara Ward: Cozy Mysteries, Crazy Life www.authortamaraward.blogspot.com

Natalie G. Owens: No rules. No formulas www.nataliegowens.com

Meredith Bond, Magical Romance www.meredithbond.com

Stacey Joy Netzel www.staceyjoynetzel.blogspot.com

Cate Dean – writing on the edge of reality – www.catedeanwrites.com/blog

Catie Rhodes: Full Tilt Backwoods Boogie www.catierhodes.com

Mitzi Flyte www.mitziflyte.com

Rhonda Hopkins – Where Reality & Fiction Collide www.rhondahopkins.com

Greg Carrico-Live the Story www.gramico.com/blog

Beach Book Blast! www.beachbookblast.blogspot.com

Marty Young www.martyyoung.com/from-out-of-the-mist/

In addition to the above prizes, one lucky person who comments on this post today or tomorrow will win a $10 gift card for Starbucks.

And we’re giving away 12 e-copies of TALES FROM THE MIST over at the RG2E (Reader’s Guide to EPublishing) today. Leave a comment there for a chance to win one of those.

Thank you for joining me today and celebrating the release of my first published fiction. Now tell me — do you like horror? Ghost stories? Paranormal?

As always, thanks for reading!

UPDATE: The winner of the Starbucks gift card is Franny!!! Congratulations, Franny. Thank you all for participating in the TALES FROM THE MIST Blog Hop.

October 7, 2012

My First Author Interview

Hey guys – I’m over at the lovely, Penelope Anne Bartotto’s website, The Library at the End of the Universe, today for my very first author interview. I’d love it if you’d join me!

While you’re there, leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of TALES FROM THE MIST. It’s a collection of horror/paranormal short stories – just in time for Halloween! It includes my short story, The Consuming. And you can win it before it’s official release date of 10/17.

As always – thanks for reading!

September 14, 2012

TALES FROM THE MIST: Release Date 10/17/2012

I just wanted to take a quick minute and share a cover with you. My story, The Consuming, will be in this paranormal/horror anthology releasing 10/17 just in time for Halloween.

Doesn’t that look creepy and fun? I’ve read all the stories and I think you’ll love them. TALES FROM THE MIST is filled with spooky goodness. More later! :-)

August 29, 2012

Week 10: The Next Big Thing

I know I said no new posts the next couple of weeks, but I already had two prior commitments and had already written the posts. Here’s one and I’ve linked to the other guest post below.

I was tagged in The Next Big Thing Hop by Jacqueline Hopkins. Jacque and I aren’t related despite the same last name. Gotta love facebook. Thanks to the social website, I’ve met some great Hopkinses. This is the second time a non-relative-Hopkins has been mentioned on my blog and I’ll be hosting another later in the year.

Before I forget — I’m also over at S. M. Hutchins’ blog today as the featured author for her Wonderstruck Interview Series. If you haven’t read the series or other posts, let me just say – they’re inspiring…it’s an emotional feel-good kind of blog. In S. M.’s own words: “Live Wonderstruck encourages readers to find contentment right where we are, to notice the beauty in their ordinary daily encounters, and to pay attention to what is truly important to them.” Thank you for allowing me to be your guest today, S. M.!

Okay, back to the Next Big Thing. The point of the hop is for authors to answer 10 questions about their current work-in-progress to give readers a little taste of what’s coming up. Check out Jacque’s blog which I linked to above for the answers regarding her latest project.

Okay, some ground rules for the hop.

*** Post the rules. Done!

***Answer the ten questions about your current WIP (Work In Progress) on your blog – Done! See below

***Tag five other writers/bloggers and add their links so we can hop over and meet them. — Done! Err..sort of. See below

***Link back to the person who tagged you. — Done! See above.

Simple enough. Now on to the questions and answers.

What is the working title of your book?

The title is pretty much set now — ILLUSION OF SAFETY. It’s had a few different names over the years. As “In the Best Interest”, ILLUSION OF SAFETY (IOS), received first place in the 2010 DFW Writers’ Conference contest, in the Mystery/Thriller/Suspense Category. It also received third place in the North Texas RWA’s Great Expectation’s Contest in 2009 – Romantic Suspense Category.

Why the name change? I’m also working on a non-fiction book to help people who are going through custody litigation. I decided the first title fit it better. Sort of. That working title is IN THEIR BEST INTERESTS.

I’m actually in the editing stage and hope to have IOS released this fall.

Where did the idea come from for the book?

I worked for over nine years as an investigator for the state and another ten as an investigator for the family courts. So it only seemed natural that the heroine of my book should be a court investigator. During those nearly twenty years, I ran into some real characters. Some good, some bad, and some I thought were pure evil. I got into a lot of funny situations and some scary ones – and some just bizarre.

So, I have a lot of personal experience to draw from. The antagonist in IOS is a composite from several different people I met over the years. And yes, one is a (now) ex-cop that I’m pretty sure was following me before IAD (Internal Affairs) got involved. Is there anything scarier than a bad guy who is supposed to be on the side of law and order? Although the guy in question was definitely not a horrible person like Baxter in the novel. Just … misguided.

I took those experiences and made a kick-butt heroine and a evil bad guy. Both are purely fiction though, straight from my imagination. The plot came from all those times I was alone in a house with people who were not exactly friendly and I thought…”What if?” That sort of thinking keeps you on your toes and has saved my butt more than once, believe me!

What genre does your book fall under?

IOS was originally meant to be a straight suspense/thriller. However, my characters had other ideas. It’s now a romantic suspense. Here’s where things took an unplanned turn:

“You have every right to be upset. And the panic was just a delayed response. You’ve held it together for over an hour after witnessing something horrendous. Hell. You not only held it together, you got yourself and a little girl to safety. So stop being so hard on yourself.”

Caleb turned the water on and fiddled with knobs until the water was warm but not too hot. He grabbed a towel from the dispenser, wet it and squeezed the water from it.

He motioned toward the sink. “Wash your face so we can go find out how Rebecca is.”

Caleb watched as she removed her purse from across her shoulder and placed it on the door hook. She always wore it cross-body style to leave her hands free.

He scrubbed the right leg of her jeans with the wet towel, removing as much of the coffee stain as he could. Tossing the towel, he studied her in the mirror. Her face was pale but still beautiful. Wait. Beautiful? Where did that come from? He’d known her nearly his whole life. Okay…so he thought she was beautiful. It didn’t mean anything. Right?

Her hair was a mess and it reminded him of what she’d been through. He couldn’t stand it any longer.

His gaze rested on her purse. Crap. He knew it was a nightmare in there.

What the hell…I’m going in.

He unzipped the bag and was surprised to find what he wanted on top.

Tori turned to throw away the paper towel and saw the brush in his hands. Her eyebrow rose. “Have a hair emergency?” she asked.

“No. But you do.” He grinned and handed her the brush.

What can I say? The heart wants what the heart wants. Right?

Which actors would you choose to play your characters in a movie rendition?

I really have no idea. I mean, I’ve thought about it, but I can’t come up with any young actors that I think fit. I see a young Rene Russo type for Tori. Caleb? I just don’t know. I guess I need to come up with some ideas though for when Hollywood comes knocking. I’m sure they’ll think I’m so brilliant, they’ll want my input.

What is the one-sentence synopsis of your book?

After witnessing an ex-cop murder his wife, a female court investigator escapes with the couple’s seven-year-old daughter and vows to keep the child safe as the killer goes on the hunt.

Will your book be self-published or represented by an agency?

I’m self-publishing. I’ve never tried the traditional route, but after careful research, I decided that the indie path is right for me at this time. I’ve had a lot to learn. I’m still learning. But I’m loving the experience.

How long did it take you to write the first draft of your manuscript?

LOL. Hmmm…I’m not sure I can even give you a date I first started. Years! I wrote the first chapter about 40 times before I figured out where the book really started. I wrote more and re-wrote. I stopped writing it because I grew tired of it after all the re-writing. I went to work on other things. But I eventually came back to IOS. I love this book. But I can tell you, it’s been written, re-written, read by many (parts of it anyway) and re-written again. I know there are some who thought I’d never really finish it. I can look back over the first few versions and see how far I’ve come in my writing. I’ve learned so much in the past few years – classes, conferences, critique partners and writers’ workshops – the difference is amazing. (If you’re just starting out, please don’t skip this step. You don’t have to take as long as I did, but you’re cheating yourself if you don’t put in the work to learn the craft.)

When I decided to publish it, I basically started over from scratch. The only thing that stayed pretty much the same during this last re-write were the first two chapters – which had already been rewritten too many times to count. I finished it finally this past month. Now I’m reading through it, adding depth, tightening and editing. I’ll be sending it to beta readers soon.

What other books would you compare this story to within your genre?

I think anyone who enjoys reading Lisa Jackson, Lisa Gardner or Allison Brennan would enjoy IOS.

Who or What inspired you to write this book?

I’ve told this story before, but I owe my friend, Kay Rifkin, for getting me started on my writing path. She got tired of hearing me say I was going to write a book one day, so she went to the local college, got a continuing ed catalog and highlighted all the writing courses. She told me it was time. And it was. Thank you, Kay!

What else about your book might pique the reader’s interest?

I know all my female readers just love a hot hero. Well, Caleb is smokin’! There are also secondary characters like Tori’s brother, Greg, and her best friend, Samantha, who may end up in their own books.

The plan is to make IOS a series. I hope people enjoy reading about these characters as much as I enjoy writing about them.

Tagged for next week – you’re it!

Okay, I seriously have a problem with rules. LOL I was supposed to tag five people, but I’m giving you one more. Check these sites next Wednesday, Sept 5th, to find out about my friends’ current works-in-progress.

I love hearing from you. So now it’s your turn. Tell us a little about what you’re working on. If you’re not a writer, tell us what you’d like to know more about when it comes to your favorite authors.

You can sign up for my blog on the right so you don’t miss anything. No spam! Just an email letting you know when I have a new post up.

As always — thanks for reading!

August 22, 2012

Update and Short Break

First of all, I want to tell each of you how much I appreciate your support and continued reading of my blog. I reached over 1000 total comments this week. I don’t post as often as some and for a long time wasn’t a very regular blogger, but since I started blogging, I’ve seen a steady increase in visitors – those that comment and those that don’t. I am so amazed by the number of views I have at times. You guys are really awesome and I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Secondly, I hope you won’t forget about me over the next three weeks. I need to take a break and get some things accomplished. I’ve pushed my release for ILLUSION OF SAFETY (IOS) to this fall. I’m not even going to try to give you a date right now. (This indie gig is hard work and I’m so glad I have friends to help.) I need to do some work and figure it all out. You’ll be the first to know!

I’m also working on the WG2E Street Team’s Beach Book Blast Anthology which will be released October 17th just in time for Halloween. I am so excited about this! Every story will have a paranormal and/or horror element. I think there will be stories for every taste from what I’ve seen of the submissions. The working title is CREEPOLOGY and I’m hoping it stays. I kind of like it. What about you? We should have a cover reveal around mid-to-late September. I love it! Well, what I’ve seen from the designer so far anyway.

Since I’m coordinating the anthology, I have a ton of work to do, including reading submissions and providing feedback. Thank God for those helping out with this project. It’s a lot of work!

And I still need to finish my story. It was finished at one point. I even won second place in a local library contest for it. But the story wouldn’t leave me alone and I know I have to make it a full length novel one day. So, I needed to make some changes to it so that when it’s finally published, the short story and the novel will be in sync. Here’s hoping I don’t mess it up and that I actually make it better.

I need the three weeks to get everything squared away on the anthology, work on IOS, and take care of some pressing personal business. So, I won’t be doing my Sunday Mash-Ups or any other personal posts until my break is over.

I will still be putting together the Authors Give Back posts on Tuesdays though. Those spots are already scheduled and I believe they make a difference. I enjoy these so much! I hope you’ll continue to read them.

I probably won’t be around my usual haunts or on facebook and twitter much at all. I will miss all of you. But I think I’ll be a less stressed person upon my return to the cyber-world once I have some of this behind me. I just need the short break and I’ll be back among you.

What about you? Have you taken a break recently or felt the need to? If you took one, were you refreshed upon your return? While I’m gone, I hope you follow your dreams. And as always, thank you for reading.