Today is the worldwide release of THE PIRATE CURSE, the fifth and final novel in the Spirit Guide young adult paranormal series by E.J. Stevens.
Keep reading for a chance to win a $15 Amazon Gift Card and The Pirate Curse ebook!
The Pirate Curse (Spirit Guide #5) by E.J. Stevens.
When Yuki starts smelling salt brine and seaweed, she finds her
summer vacation hijacked by pirates...the DEAD kind.
Will the ghost of Black Sam Bellamy, Prince of Pirates, lead Yuki
and her friends to treasure or terror?
A new Spirit Guide adventure you won't want to miss!
Twitter Party: Join the party on Twitter October 8th for a chance to win more prizes. Use hashtag #ThePirateCurse and be entered to win The Pirate Curse books and swag. We're giving away ebooks, stickers, signed postcards, skull and bones candy, and more!
While the actual book was released a bit early, the official release for Ghost Light is today, and in celebration, there's a huge, tour-wide giveaway that YOU can take part in! First, some info about the book itself.
Ghost Light is the second full-length novel in the Ivy Granger, Psychic Detective series. Here is the series information (so far), and links to my reviews.
Series Information: Ivy Granger, Psychic Detective series Book 1: Shadow Sight, read and reviewed July 2012, review linked here. Book 1.5: Blood and Mistletoe, read and reviewed October 2012, review linked here. Book 2: Ghost Light, reviewed 7/4/2013, review linked here. Book 2.5: Club Nexus, scheduled to be released later in 2013 Book 3: Burning Bright, scheduled for release in 2013
Ivy Granger, psychic detective, thought she'd seen it all...until now.
With a vengeful lamia that only she can see on the city streets, reports of specters walking Harborsmouth cemeteries, and an angry mob of faerie clients at her office door, it's bound to be a long night. Add in an offense against the faerie courts and a few foolish bargains and one thing is clear--Ivy Granger is in some seriously deep trouble.
Ivy Granger is back, gathering clues in the darkest shadows of downtown Harborsmouth. With the lives of multiple clients on the line, she's in a race against time. Ivy finally has a lead to the whereabouts of the one person who can help her control her wisp abilities, but will she put the needs of her clients above her own?
If Ivy doesn't find a solution soon, she could wind up a ghost herself.
I am pleased to announce the publication and release of Mark Matthews' latest book, On the Lips of Children, available in Kindle format by following the link. Mark has previously published Stray (which I edited), Jade Rabbit, and Zombie Dash.
Synopsis:
Meet Macon. Tattoo artist. Athlete. Family man.
He's planning to run a marathon, but the event becomes something terrible.
During a warm-up run, Macon falls prey to a bizarre man and his wife who dwell in an underground drug-smuggling tunnel. They raise their twin children in a way Macon couldn't imagine: skinning unexpecting victims for food and money.
And Macon, and his family, are next.
What others are saying about On the Lips of Children (in their own words):
“Mark Matthews’ On the Lips of Children is a sprint down a path of high-adrenaline terror that never offers the comfort of monsters you can dismiss by reminding yourself “there’s no such thing as...” The story alternates between harsh reality and an almost dream-like surreality while never losing sight of the real heart of good storytelling. Matthews demonstrates that you don’t have far down to go to reach the underworld, yet the road back up is a lot harder run than anyone is prepared to make.” ~ Bracken MacLeod, author of Mountain Home
“An ordinary running trail becomes the most terrifying place on the planet for Mark Matthews' troubled, likeable, marathon-running, tattooed, hipster protagonists and their young daughter. But, for the horror-show clan living under that trail — who subsist on flesh and bath salts in a nightmare orgy of blood and crazy — the hipsters are a rare treat indeed. As the family v. family showdown transpires underground and off the beaten path, the vulnerability of running on a trail — alone but for the watchers in the woods — makes the setting unique and well-crafted. Written with verve, surprising compassion, and bite, On the Lips of Children is a seriously demented must read.” ~ Sacha Z. Scoblic, author of Unwasted: My Lush Sobriety
“On the Lips of Children by Mark Matthews, is a dark, terrifying page-turner. It’s Stephen King’s Misery on bath salts. In a cave. It scared the crap out of me. The story was original. The characters were fascinating, exposing the reader to worlds foreign to most of us. Matthews has a knack for pacing his story then jolting the reader with a frightening plot twist. I was impressed by how he wrapped up the ending. Read this book.” ~ Michele Miller, author of The Thirteenth Step: Zombie Recovery, an Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award quarterfinalist
“Mark Matthews’ keen ability to bring his own very real personal experiences to life in the guise of fiction, in this instance delightfully horrific fiction, makes even the macabre relatable.” ~ Peter Rosche, author of My Dead Friend Sarah
“On the Lips of Children pulled me in early on. Within the first chapters, Mark’s well-paced plot had me experiencing every footstep with him, riveted. By the time their daughter Lyric’s perspective engulfed me, the story was whirling by, her innocence eating at my heart, each stride drawing me from one word to the next. Who knew an innocent run through the park could be so startling and gruesome? Fans of thrilling chases and horrifying tales where family and innocence hang in the balance will certainly enjoy On the Lips of Children.” ~ Weston Kincade, author of A Life of Death
“Mark Matthews’ novel On the Lips of Children is a brutal, intense ride of claustrophobic horror and gritty, page-turning suspense. This is dark fiction at its visceral, chilling best.” ~ Jan Kozlowski, author of Die, You Bastard! Die!
“On the Lips of Children is dark and gritty. Even the peaceful moments feel dangerous. Always on the border of safety, danger, and death. Readers beware.” ~ Jay Wilburn, author of Loose Ends
“What would you do for your family? Anything, of course. Blood is thicker than water, after all—and sweeter, too. On the Lips of Children is a gritty, sadomasochistic tale of misguided loyalty and dysfunctional kin—innocence morphed into desperate beasts that are hypnotized by the stars at night and the glint of steel as it parts quivering flesh.” ~ Richard Thomas, author of Staring Into the Abyss
Sounds pretty cool, eh? I know I can't wait to read it! How about you? Go, buy!
You might remember from my cover reveal on this book that A Change of Plans was to be released on June 1, 2012. Well, it is now available on all platforms, so I'm going to provide you a bit more information!
A Change of Plans is a New Adult book, which means it has been written to appeal to people who are recently graduated from college and just going out on their own. Here is a bit more info about A Change of Plans (and you may or may not have noticed, but each mention of the title provides a link to a different place. First Rhemalda directly, then Amazon, then B&N.com, so you can just click to go and pick it up wherever you prefer!). Be sure to check out the GIVEAWAY and cool trailer at the end!
However, fear is an emotion, too. Unaware of the sensitive waters he's navigating, Braedon moves to take their relationship beyond friendship--on the very anniversary Lyn is on the cruise to forget. Lyn's painful memories are too powerful, and she runs from Braedon and what he has to offer.
Their confusing relationship is bad enough, but when the pair finds themselves on one of the cruise's snorkeling excursions in American Samoa things get worse. Paradise turns to piracy when their party is kidnapped and Lyn's fear of a fairytale turns grim. Now she must fight alongside the man she rejected, first for their freedom and then against storms, sharks, and shipwreck.
Author Bio:
Donna K. Weaver has always loved reading and creating stories, thus she’s been ever entertained. A Navy brat and U.S. Army veteran, she’s lived in many U.S. states as well as South Korea, the Philippines, and Germany. An avid cruiser, she’s sailed the Pacific four times. When she retired from Shorei Kempo Karate with a black belt, she decided it was time to put her imaginary friends and places on paper. She lives in Utah with her husband. They have six children and eight grandchildren.
"A Change of Plans will keep readers up way too late in this fast-paced tale of love lost and found again." ~Melanie Jacobson, author of The List, Not My Type, Twitterpated, and Smart Move
"A Change of Plans is lots of romance sprinkled with pirates, shipwreck and adventure. Donna Weaver spins a tale that you will fall in love with, think about for days afterward, and then go back and read again. I laughed, I cried, and I couldn't put it down." ~Betsy Love author of Identity and Soulfire
"A captivating tale of love, grief, and hope that will tug at your heartstrings until the very end." ~Laura Josephson, author of the Rising series and Confessions from the Realm of the Underworld
"When someone says pirates and novel in the same sentence, I usually say, "Thanks, but no." Not in this case. Ms. Weaver brings a warm humor to her story of romance, travel and overcoming skeletons in one's past with her vivid characters and delightful scenes." ~Shaunna Gonzales, author of Dark Days of Promise
It's time! Today is release day for M.J. Rose's latest book Seduction! See my review here. You can pick up this excellent book in the following formats (all links go to Amazon): Hardcover Kindle Audible MP3-CD
Don't miss out, this is an excellent book, and is part of an excellent series.
Lacey Reah (who wrote the dark fantasy novella Fireflies, my review linked here) let me work on her soon-to-be-released second book, Enlightened Ones. It should be available on Amazon and Lulu soon, and believe me when I say I'll be letting you know as soon as it's available! This is a very dark and difficult book about the dangers of cults and brainwashing, a New Adult novel about how the attempts to find oneself can sometimes lead to subsuming that self within the confines of another's dreams, and I think anyone interested in these ideas will love this story.
Here's the synopsis:
When Maggi turns eighteen and realizes that she has nothing to show for it, she looks for meaning by joining a church of people called “Enlightened Ones,” led by the enigmatic John Cronus. As she is pulled deeper into this organization, the stories of its people are unveiled, showing how they all joined the church seeking their own form of fulfillment. The followers give up all their worldly possessions to start a commune on a distant island paradise. Will they find the utopia they seek, or will they be pulled into a menace that is even darker than the lives they left behind?
Watch for this one; it's going to be epic! I'm so pleased to let you all know about this book, and to show you the gorgeous cover.
"Write Like a Man" Please welcome Sharon Bayliss to Now is Gone today. You may remember my post on Sunday about her book The Charge, currently on sale, recently published by Curiosity Quills. If not, go and look at it, it's linked above; the sale lasts until Saturday! Anyway, I asked her: how do you manage to write as a male protagonist? In response, I received the following guest post. Be sure to check the bottom, where other tour stop links and other links in general are included, as well as the trailer AND a giveaway!. And now, without further ado, Sharon Bayliss, to tell us how to "Write Like a Man"!
I have often pondered why I prefer writing from the male POV. That has to be weird, right? As a woman, shouldn't I feel more comfortable speaking as a woman? Shouldn't I be more versed in what women think and feel?
Although quite girly in real life, for some reason in fiction, I'm a tomboy.
I can write from the female POV, and do in The Charge, which is told from multiple POVs. As a matter of fact, the original draft of the novel that would become The Charge was written from Lena's perspective, the leading lady in the story.
Deciding to change my main character from Lena to Warren was a big decision, namely because it meant re-writing most of the novel. But also I didn't trust that I could master the voice of an 18-year-old guy, especially one like Warren, who is not that much like me. However, I decided to make the change at the suggestion of some astute critique partners.
From a plot perspective, writing the story from Lena's perspective had been a mistake. She's deeply involved in the story, but it's not about her. It's Warren's story, and should be told by him. Honestly, I think I was stuck in the female-focused mentality of the YA/NA genre. I naturally started writing from the female perspective, just because it seemed like the normal thing to do, even though it wasn't right for my story.
When I stated writing the story from Warren's POV, it felt like fireworks erupted in my head. It worked better partly because it made for a better plot, but also his voice flowed so naturally. The prose came to life with color and texture.
My leaning toward the male POV didn't stop with Warren. The exact same thing happened with my next novel (which I hope to publish later this year). When planning the story in my head and in outlines, I fully intended to write from the perspective of the main female character. But when I actually sat down to write, the main male character took the helm. I just started writing a scene from his perspective and he tumbled out for a whole novel. In retrospect, I am very glad I chose him as a MC. He's a deeply flawed character and making him into a likable MC added much more complexity than I would have had otherwise.
Who knows, perhaps I do have some deeply seeded gender issues, but my guess is that something else is going on here. I like writing from the male perspective because the voice is less like mine. When you're attempting to write from the perspective of someone who is not like you, you have to make a more conscious effort to create a strong and consistent voice, which at least in my case, improves the quality of my writing.
In addition, I find it more enjoyable to write as a character unlike myself. Don't get me wrong, I'm a huge Sharon fan, but I live in my head 24/7. Stepping out of myself adds fire to my writing because it's fresh and different, and I enjoy the challenge. So, at the end of the day, I don't think it's that much about gender. I enjoy writing as someone different from me.
If you often write from the POV of your own gender, or as characters otherwise similar to you, I challenge you to a few exercises where you write as someone unlike you. If you're like me, hopefully it will help to enhance your voice and add fresh color to your writing.
So, what about you? Do you usually write MCs of the same gender? If so, why do you lean towards one or the other?
Thank you so much for having me here, Katy!
And thanks for dropping by, Sharon! Now, some links!
When King of the Texas Empire kidnaps Warren's brother, Warren embarks into a still Wild West to save him. On his journey, he makes a discovery that changes his life forever—he and his brother are long-lost members of the Texas royal family and the King wants them both dead.
He gets help from an activist Texan named Lena, who's itching to take on the King and happens to be a beautiful firecracker Warren can't stay away from. Convincing her he's not one of the bad guys becomes harder when a mysterious energy stirs in his body, turning his brain into a hive of emotions and memories—not all his own.
A legacy of violence is not all he inherited from the brutal Kings of Texas. The myth that the royal family possesses supernatural powers may not be myth at all.
Gone are the days when choosing a major was a big deal. Now Warren must save his brother and choose whether or not to be King, follow a King, or die before he can retire his fake ID.
Finally, some info about the author and more links:
About Me
Bio: Sharon Bayliss is a native of Austin, Texas and works her day job in the field of social work. When she’s not writing, she enjoys living in her “happily-ever-after” with her husband and two young sons. She can be found eating Tex-Mex on patios, wearing flip-flops, and playing in the mud (which she calls gardening). You can connect with Sharon at www.facebook.com/authorsharonbayliss and www.sharonbayliss.com.
New from Alex Bobl, now available from Amazon, Point Apocalypse. This sounds like a really interesting book. Check out this synopsis!
About the Book:
He enters a prison world. A place of no return harboring the death of the universe. No proper food or drinking water, no modern technologies. He doesn't know who he is. He can't tell friend from foe. He has no idea what brought him here. He has no time to think. He lives from one objective to the next. The Earth's laws end here. No one to turn to for help. The lives of thousands of people now depend on him alone.
This book is part of Amazon's KDP program, which means that Prime members can borrow it for free! Or you can buy it for just $2.99. I know I'll be adding it to my wishlist!
Jolea M. Harrison has been working on the Guardians of the Word series for a long time. Book 1 was released in 2011, and book 7 was released in December. I'm very excited to announce the release of book 8, which was just made available (a bit early, might I add) on Amazon, King.
I am currently in the process of finishing this series, which I began almost two years ago. I just posted the review of book 6, Seer, here, and I'm 75 percent finished with book 7, Adept and will have that review posted soon. Information on the rest of the series is below.
King is currently listed at $3.99, but don't forget... I'm holding a giveaway for the entire series starting on Monday! Don't miss out on your chance to receive the whole thing in one fell swoop, right here on Now is Gone!
Now, just for your information, here is the book synopsis of King by Jolea M. Harrison.
Synopsis:
Evil bides its time, ever waiting to breach the thin veil. Action and reaction join to swing the pendulum toward anarchy and destruction. Chaos reigns. The Demon lurks in the dark recesses.
The possibility exists that it can’t be destroyed. Evil will endure. It can’t be taken, cured, or overcome. Night will cover the world no matter what. Faith may not be enough. Love may not survive.
Amidst deception, temptation and fear, the last choice is made, the ultimate sacrifice taken. Father bequeaths unto son. Natural order must be restored. Those who are chosen to die may live, while those who are chosen to live may not make it through.
The fate of the universe, of a kingdom, of a family...of one man is decided. The final battle is at hand. Series Information: King is the 8th book in the Guardians of the Word series. Book 1: Chosen, released in 2011, reviewed August 2011, review linked here where formatting allowed. Book 2: Myth, released 2011, reviewed August 2012, review linked here where formatting allowed. Book 3: Telepath, released 2012, reviewed August 2012, review linked here where formatting allowed. Book 4: Legend, released 2012, reviewed August 2012, review linked here where formatting allowed. Book 5: Union, released 2012, reviewed August 2012, review linked here where formatting allowed. Book 6: Seer, released 2012, reviewed March 2013, review linked here where formatting allowed. Book 7: Adept, released 2012, review to come soon Book 8: King, released March 2013, to be reviewed
Author Stephanie Alexander is releasing her second book The Red Choker this Friday, March 8th. This is the second book in her Cracked Slipper series. Synopsis: Eleanor Brice Desmarais, she of the cracked glass slipper and unladylike intellectual propensities, has learned that happily-ever-after is as rare as a frozen dragon, even for a happenstance princess. She survived a plot against her life, but her marriage to the alcoholic, womanizing Prince Gregory of Cartheigh remains at best a sham, and at worse, a potential noose around her neck.
Eleanor understands the harsh realities of women’s lives in her kingdom, so she turns her energies to a school for impoverished girls. She hopes to give them new opportunities, but the temptations of the streets and an ominous plot to bring down the witches of Afar Creek Abbey threaten to close the school forever.
She finds joy in stolen hours with her lover, Dorian Finley, but her husband’s increasing suspicions, her stepsister’s continued scheming, and her own conscience create a rift between Eleanor and Dorian that seems insurmountable. A witch’s spell and a beautiful necklace are all that stand between Eleanor and a most permanent, and dangerous, heartbreak.
The Red Choker is the sequel to Stephanie Alexander’s bestselling debut novel, The Cracked Slipper.
The author, in conjunction with JKS Communications, is offering one copy of this in e-book format, to be gifted from Amazon. Therefore, you must be able to accept a gifted e-book from Amazon.com, which limits this to mostly the US and the other countries that do not have their own Amazon.etc version. Last time there was some misunderstanding and one of the winners was in a country that did not allow Amazon e-book gifting, so be certain you can accept an Amazon.com e-book gift before you enter. I will hold the drawing in a week and notify JKS, who will pass the winner's e-mail on to the author, who will then gift the winner his/her e-book. Sign up below!
Check out this interesting-looking new book by Mike Robinson, The Prince of Earth. I have this in my review queue, but you all know how crazy busy I am, so it could be awhile before I read it. But it looks good!
Synopsis:
In 1988, young American traveler Quincy Redding is trekking across the misty terrain of the Scottish Highlands. She is destined for the infamous peak Ben MacDui, the summit of which soon finds her inexplicably debilitated and at the mercy of a malevolent entity.
The book spans twenty years, alternately following Quincy in her 1988 ordeal in Scotland as well as Quincy in 2008, when, as an adult, she begins experiencing abnormalities that threaten her family and her life – phenomena that may be related to what happened all those years ago.
As both older and younger Quincy learn more of their situation, and as their worlds further entwine, she becomes increasingly uncertain of the perceived temporality or reality of each period.
MSF delivers emergency aid to almost 70 countries. To people affected by armed conflict, epidemics, natural or man-made disasters, or exclusion from healthcare.
MSF offers assistance to people based only on need and irrespective of race, religion, gender, or political affiliation.
Available today, Nov, 1, 2012, the 2nd book in the Godling Chronicles by Brian D. Anderson and Jonathan Anderson, published by Great Minds Think Aloud Publishing, Of Gods and Elves. I had hoped to have been able to read the first book in the series by now, The Sword of Truth, but circumstances have prohibited it. But have no fear! I have them both and you shall eventually see my thoughts about them!
Now, let me give you some information about this book!
Armies gather for war in the frozen land of Angrääl threatening to set the world ablaze. The elves are divided and scattered and humans fall prey to the dark influence of the Reborn King. Now, Gewey is faced with his greatest challenge yet. Unite the world of elf and human before it is too late...
About the Authors:
Brian D. Anderson was born in 1971, and grew up in the small town of Spanish Fort, AL. He attended Fairhope High, then later Springhill College where his love for fantasy grew into a lifelong obsession. His hobbies include chess, history, and spending time with his son.
Jonathan Anderson was born in March of 2003. His creative spirit became evident by the age of three when he told his first original story. In 2010 he came up with the concept for The Godling Chronicles. It grew into an exciting collaboration between father and son. Jonathan enjoys sports, chess, music, games, and of course, telling stories.
Scheduled for release today, October 1, 2012, a new YA novel by Kate Tenbeth, published by Great Minds Think Aloud. Lucky Dip; continue for further information.
SYNOPSIS:
There are always high stakes to play for in the world of gambling, but it’s a world 15 year-old Holly Maddon knows nothing about until her step-mother tries to kill her. The race is on as she tries to discover what her step-mother is up to and whether her father was murdered. She comes up against gangsters, multi-million pound land deals, treachery and deceit, she’s kidnapped, shot at and loses just about everything she loves – it’s a rollercoaster of a ride and Holly's intent on turning the tables.
I do not currently have any links for the book, but it should be available wherever ebooks are sold: Amazon, Smashwords, B&N, etc.
I live in Essex with my son, who is studying at University, and my two cats, Puzzle and Bud. I’ve always loved writing and in January 2011 I got together with some friends and set up a writers’ group at our local library. One of our first guest speakers was a young lady called Penelope Fletcher who talked to us about self-publishing – I was so inspired I went back home, found some stories I’d written for my son when he was young and started the process of learning how to self-publish. I published 3 books in the Burly & Grum series and then in July 2012 was lucky enough to be signed up by GMTA. I’ve enjoyed every single second of my journey so far, learnt an incredible amount and I’m looking forward to the future!
Elizabeth Eisen is a 23 year old freelance illustrator from North London. She graduated from the University of Westminster with a BA Hons in Illustration in 2011 and has since worked on commissions ranging from album artwork to editorial. Further examples of her work can be found here.
Definitely go and look at her work - it is beautiful, amazing and vivid. You can learn more about Elizabeth here at her blog.
The Void review
Author: Brett J. Talley
5 out of 5 stars
Book Info: Genre: Dark Science Fantasy Reading Level: Adult Ebook available at Journalstone or Amazon; Paperback or Hardcover copy is available as of today, 7/13/12 on Amazon
Disclosure: I received a free eBook ARC from LibraryThing in exchange for an honest review. To make things even better, I just received a free paperback uncorrected proof from Journalstone in a promotion! This will not, of course, affect my opinion of the book, but it is awesome!
Synopsis: In the deepest reaches of space, on a ship that no longer exists, six travelers stare into the abyss . . . and the abyss stares back.
Man has finally mastered the art of space travel and in a few hours passengers can travel light years across the galaxy. But, there's a catch—the traveler must be asleep for the journey, and with sleep come the dreams. Only the sleeper can know what his dream entails, for each is tailored to his own mind, built from his fears, his secrets, his past . . . and sometimes his future.
That the dreams occasionally drive men mad is but the price of technological advance. But when a transport on a routine mission comes upon an abandoned ship, missing for more than a decade, six travelers—each with something to hide—discover that perhaps the dreams are more than just figments of their imagination. Indeed, they may be a window to a reality beyond their own where shadow has substance and the darkness is a thing unto itself, truly worthy of fear.
My Thoughts: Brett J. Talley burst onto the scene last year with his Bram Stoker finalist, Lovecraftian debut, That Which Should not Be, which I absolutely loved, and so did many others. To say I was anticipating this book would be seriously understating the excitement I’ve felt while anticipating the chance to finally read it.
One thing Talley does really well is to create that form of creeping suspense, that feeling that something …. terrible and terrifying waits just right around that corner up ahead. At first this is done subtly, with minor things happening around the characters that could just be their own paranoia, their imagination, but then it starts to ramp up and pretty soon the reader is hanging on the edge of their seat and ready to jump if there is an unexpected sound in the house.
I had initially figured this to be a form of horror/science fiction blend, but after finishing the book, I don’t think I could define it as horror, although it does have some horrific elements, and is very Lovecraftian. No, I have changed my definition to dark science-fantasy, and I think once you read this book you will agree this is fitting. Highly recommended for fans of Cthulhian/Lovecraftian fiction, for fans of the darker prose, for those who enjoy an element of fantasy in their science fiction. This is a really well-written book, and I think that you absolutely cannot go wrong in grabbing a copy to read.