Hywela Lyn

noreply@blogger.com (Hywela Lyn) — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 17:30:00 +0000

To all my lovely friends and visitors
Thank you so much for your friendship and support

Wishing you a Happy Valentine's Day filled with love

Whether your sharing it with a human or a furbaby

(and if you don't have either, just curl up with a good romance novel and some chocolate and know that you are loved)

'STARQUEST' 'CHILDREN OF THE MIST' (The sequel to Starquest) Dancing With Fate 'Freeread':'A BARGAIN WITH DEATH 'STARQUEST' 'CHILDREN OF THE MIST' (The sequel to Starquest) Dancing With Fate 'Freeread':'A BARGAIN WITH DEATH'

Also available on Kindle

HEARING VOICES BLOG FEST, Day Three

noreply@blogger.com (Hywela Lyn) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 13:02:00 +0000

You can find all the details, and a complete list of entrants and links to their blogs HERE

DAY THREE

It's the final day of the Festival today. I've really enjoyed taking part and want to thank everyone who's taken the trouble to visit my blog , especially if you left a comment as well. I've loved reading all the great posts of the other participants as well, this has been such a fun exercise.

Today we were supposed to write a 'flash' fiction piece representing 'emotion' . This is my effort, from my current WIP, 'Beloved Enemy' which will be the third book in the futuristic romance series that started with Starquest and continued with 'Children Of The Mist. I'd be interested to know if you think the emotion comes through, and what emotion I am actually trying to portray. The male character is Kerry Marchant, and the female one is Katt O'Brian. Because I love to illustrate my posts I've included the cover I designed to keep my motivation going for this story.

"That cross and the locket are priceless—to me. Steal them and you would be very, very sorry.”

The pain she saw in his eyes told her it was dangerous to probe more deeply, but somehow she couldn’t help herself. “She was pretty. You must have loved her very much.”

"The woman in the locket was my mother. I never knew her. She died when I was a small child.”

“I’m sorry.”

“No need to be. It happened a long time ago, as I said, I was only a child.”

“The cross was hers too?”

He was silent for so long she wondered if he was ever going to answer her. “I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have asked. It’s none of my business.”

“No, it's not. But if it makes you happy, you might as well know. The cross didn’t belong to her. It belonged to …a woman I cared for—a great deal.” He stared at her with that blue gaze that seemed to look into her very soul, and yet somehow not see her at all. “Before you ask, she’s dead too. She died from a laser bolt intended for me. Satisfied?”

The anguish in his eyes, the pain in his voice, almost tore her in two. She wanted to reach out, to touch him, offer some words of comfort, but none came. This man who had such an effect on her was in love with a phantom from the past, and it was apparent that the wound ran deep and raw, far deeper than any physical hurt he sustained over the last couple of days.

'STARQUEST' 'CHILDREN OF THE MIST' (The sequel to Starquest) Dancing With Fate 'Freeread':'A BARGAIN WITH DEATH 'STARQUEST' 'CHILDREN OF THE MIST' (The sequel to Starquest) Dancing With Fate 'Freeread':'A BARGAIN WITH DEATH'

Also available on Kindle

I'm Hearing Voices Pt II - Dialogue

noreply@blogger.com (Hywela Lyn) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 16:14:00 +0000

http://livetowrite1.blogspot.com/p/im-hearing-voices-blogfest.html

It's day two of the "I'm Hearing Voices Blogfest" and this time we have to introduce two characters using nothing but dialogue.

I've set up an imaginary conversation between the heroine from my futuristic romance novel, 'Starquest', and Narjohol, the antogonist.

JESS: I have to confess to being a little nervous, considering what Narjohol put me through when I was his prisoner, but I've been asked to introduce him to this Council. I’m grateful for the force shield between us. He is one of the most evil beings I've come across in all my travels through hyperspace.

NARJOHOL: My dear, you are not usually so judgemental. Your words hurt me. I merely pursue my legal vocation. You on the other hand, preach peace and love and yet you led a band of mercenaries to destroy another living being, the unfortunate mutant, Ayandos. Hardly the act of a Missionary of the Sisterhood of the Universal Spirit.

JESS: On the contrary, the people of Phidia begged me to fetch help to free them fromAyandos when he invaded their world and enslaved the population to mine the planet’s minerals and precious stones. Ayandos was much like yourself really. I would hardly call rounding up innocent citizens on remote planets, and selling them as slaves a 'legal vocation'. Slavery is a crime on most of the civilised planets.

AYANDOS: Not in the sector of space where I come from. Slavery is considered a very respectable occupation there. You may be feisty, for a human female, but you are very naïve too. My spies tell me you were foolishly willing to sacrifice yourself for the love of one of the men on board the Destiny, when you brought the crew to Phidia.

JESS: Love is something a cold blooded monster like you could never understand, Narjohol. I would do it again – and I intend to search the galaxy until I find the Destiny, and he and I are reunited. I hope that one day you will be made to pay for your crimes, because I’m certain you will never change your cruel ways.

AYANDOS: Take care my dear, you were lucky to escape from me, Should I ever get the chance I will take the greatest pleasure in torturing you again, and if that happens, I promise - you will not live to tell the tale!

'STARQUEST' 'CHILDREN OF THE MIST' (The sequel to Starquest) Dancing With Fate 'Freeread':'A BARGAIN WITH DEATH 'STARQUEST' 'CHILDREN OF THE MIST' (The sequel to Starquest) Dancing With Fate 'Freeread':'A BARGAIN WITH DEATH'

Also available on Kindle

Review, Guestpost and Giveaway - Heroes and Hounds by Bill Miller

noreply@blogger.com (Hywela Lyn) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 08:30:00 +0000

I'm thrilled to welcome Bill Mller here today. I love both horses, hounds and nearly every fourlegged animal on the planet so I knew I would enjoy Bill's book. I was not disappointed.
Heroes and Hounds is a wonderfully charming story about a young girl’s adventures with her pony and her friend as she seeks to fulfill her dream of riding “to the hounds” with the hunt. Although the story is written for young audiences, it has multi-generational appeal as it touches on such issues as the plight of families with parents in military service and the welfare of veterans. Anyone who loves horses, dogs and other animals will enjoy this book. The illustrations are beautiful and create a nostalgia of their own in their old-style look reminiscent of children’s books decades ago.
Carly is 11 years old and lives with her grandfather on a 200-acre Virginia farm while both parents serve in the military overseas. She loves the farm, and befriends all of the animals including a sneaky red fox that stalks her grandfather’s prize chickens. Her best friend is her pony, Monroe, who shares her enthusiasm for adventure. Carly’s constant dream is to ride with the Riverdale Hunt Club that passes through her grandfather’s property.
On one particularly rainy Saturday, Carly watches from her front porch as the finely dressed ladies and gentlemen ride to the hounds. Later in the day, Carly finds out that a young hound named Hampton has become lost and Carly is determined to find him and by so doing endear herself to the hunt’s Master; perhaps to be asked to ride Monroe in an upcoming meet. Carly enlists the help of her friend, Freddie, but the adventure is just beginning. Carly, Monroe, Hampton and the red fox have no idea what’s dangers await them.

My Review:

This delightful story is full of excitement and action. The main character, Carly, has all the characteristics of a typical eleven year old girl. She lives with her grandfather, 'Grandpa Oakley' while her parents are in the armed Forces. Her best friends are Freddie, a young lad of about the same age, Buster, her grandfather's cat, and her pony Monroe. Although she was brought up in the suburbs, she has quickly adapted to life on her grandfather's farm and loves living in the country.

The animals in this story are as important as the human characters. They have their own personalities but are not 'humanised' and are written as 'real' animals. Apart from Monroe, there is the foxhound, called Hampton and a wily red fox. The two become unlikely allies - and they and Carly and Freddie become unwittingly involved with an aging Vietnam veteran, 'Strange Willie' rumoured to be half mad and more than a little dangerous. The story moves along at a fast pace, from the beginning of the adventure when Hampton becomes separated from the hunt, is injured and lost to the the thrilling climax when Freddie goes missing and suspicion falls on Strange Willie. Carly, riding Monroe, leads the search party in a desperate chase across country, and Strange Willie saves the hunt pack from a terrible fate.

Apart from being a really good adventure story, with animals and characters that children can easily relate to, there are some good lessons to be learnt along the way, like not making hasty judgements, and that honesty, friendship and loyalty are the things that are really important in life. Altogether a delightful story which any animal loving youngster is likely to throughly enjoy. The beautiful and lifelike line drawings by Mary Burkhardt add even more to the story.

Buy the book at:

Create Space

I asked Billl if the the animals in his story are based on real animals or purely imaginary?

This is what he has to say:

All of the animals, both four-legged and two-legged, are imaginary but based on friends I have know or met over the years. I have been riding horses for over 50 years and have horses, dogs, cats and various other animals have shared their lives with me. I have been an honorary whipper-in with Norfolk Hunt Club for the last twenty years and in doing that job have gotten to know many of the hounds up-close and personal.

So Hampton, the lead dog in the story, is an amalgam of many of the hounds I have known over the years. His personality really comes from a dog I got from the pound when I graduated from college a million years ago. He was a great dog, part Beagle, part unknown with a wonderful personality and great quirkiness. His portrait still adorns my living room wall. Much of his personality is reflected in Hampton’s inner thoughts. My little dog would do wonderful and unexpected things, had a vocabulary of over 100 words, and I had many people convinced the brown spot on his white back moved up and down according the temperature of the day. I remember one day I was up on my brother-in-laws roof helping fix the TV antennae (anyone remember those). I looked around and there was my dog up on the roof with us. He had climbed the rung ladder two stories to join. I almost expected to see a tool belt strapped to his waist. Another time his foot was nicked by a car and he ran three blocks to the ocean to soak his foot. I think that’s where I got the background for Hampton soaking his foot in mud. Another time we were driving off with two other dogs in the car. He jumped on the hood and starred us down. He wouldn’t be left behind. So yes, the animals
are based on real life.

Hampton sounds absolutely delightful, he must have been a real character. I've had beagles in the past and I know what clever little dogs they are, full of personality. I laughed out loud when you said he climbed the ladder to join you on the roof and you almost expected to see him with his own toolbelt!
Thanks so much for being my guest today, Bill, I've really enjoyed learning more about you and 'Heroes and Hounds.'

Author Website

Other Website, Twitter,Goodreads, Facebook Page

Visit Minding Spot tomorrow for the next stop in Bill's Tour, and the other stops can be found here:
http://nurtureyourbooks.com/vbtblog/2011/12/upcoming-book-tour-heroes-and-hounds-by-bill-miller/

GIVEAWAY

leave a comment on this post to be entered in a draw to win a free download of Bill's book!

I'M HEARING VOICES BLOGFEST - February 6th - Characters on the couch

noreply@blogger.com (Hywela Lyn) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 23:36:00 +0000

Cover Art by Miss Mae

February 6th - Monday: Characters on the couch

THE CHARACTER WHO VOLUNTEERED FOR THIS SPOT IS TERPSICHORE, MUSE OF DANCE, FROM 'DANCING WITH FATE' AVAILABLE AT THE SPECIAL PRICE OF 99C for a limited time HERE
(Paperback version HERE)

Terpsichore seats herself on the low couch, arranging her chiton so that it falls in graceful folds around her, her long, silky hair, the colour of burnished chestnuts, reaching to its hem.

(*whisper* between you and me, she was not the easiest person in the universe to write about being rather complex and a Greek Goddess! She's rather strong willed but fun as well as being a bit of a challenge!)

Q: Good morning Terpisichore. Thank you for agreeing to answer these questions. I hope the ambrosia is to your liking. Without further ado, lets start with the first question.

What is your biggest vulnerability? Do others know this or is it a secret?

T: Well of course, being a Muse, I don’t have many vulnerabilities at all. However, when Apollo and Zeus sent me to Wales in the 5th Century, I wasn’t allowed to use any of my powers which was rather disconcerting to say the least. Also, like all the muses, if I give anemos too often it could be fatal – yes even Greek goddesses can lose their immortality. Of course all the gods are aware of this so it’s no secret to them – but the first one, being deprived of my powers, was something only Apollo and Zeus were aware of. No-one on Earth had any inkling that I’d ever possessed any magical gifts.

Q: What do people believe about you that is false?

T: That's easy (Terpsichore frowns a little in annoyance.) It's the idea that all I can do is inspire people to dance. There’s a lot more to it than that and I have many other talents.

Q: What would your best friend say is your fatal flaw? Why?

T: My best friend is also my soulmate – Myrddin! He would say I’m too impetious. Of course I disagree!

Q:What would the same friend say is your one redeeming quality? Why?

T: Only one? Well, I imagine he’d say it’s my unswerving loyalty – and of course my undying love for him!

Q: What do you want most? What will you do to get it?

T: Now, I want for nothing. My immortal life is truly complete. However in the story I dictated to my author, I thought my beloved was in grave danger – that he might even die, so I would do anything, including giving up my immortality, in order to save him. Thankfully it didn’t quite come to that or I wouldn’t be here now!

HL: And I wouldn't have been able to write your Happy Ever After. Thank you so much, Terpsichore.

T: It's been a pleasure, Now I must get back to Olympus, and my beloved. I see my golden horse, Sal, is waiting for me, and pawing the ground impatiently! Farewell, and remember, 'Dance As if no-one is watching!'

artwork by talented 'Sister Muse' Masha Holl, author of 'The Brightest Heaven'

Hywela Lyn first published 'Dancing With Fate in 2008 as part of The Song of the Muses Anthology. Find the list of authors original to this anthology at her website under 'Muse Anthology'.

Some of these authors have also republished, or are in the process of republishing their stories, among them Sky Purington, whose Story 'Highland Muse' can be found here:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Highland-Muse-ebook/dp/B006J2U0Q2/ref=sr_1_6?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1328528426&sr=1-6

FIND EVERYONE ELSE'S INTERVIEWS HERE

'STARQUEST' 'CHILDREN OF THE MIST' (The sequel to Starquest) Dancing With Fate 'Freeread':'A BARGAIN WITH DEATH 'STARQUEST' 'CHILDREN OF THE MIST' (The sequel to Starquest) Dancing With Fate 'Freeread':'A BARGAIN WITH DEATH'

Also available on Kindle

I'm Hearing Voices Character Blog Fest 6th to 10th Feb

noreply@blogger.com (Hywela Lyn) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 00:44:00 +0000

Every great story has great characters! So this blogfest, run by Angie Cothran and Cassie Mae, is designed to help us flex our character writing muscles through three separate blog posts.

February 6th - Monday: Characters on the couch

February 8th - Wednesday - Dialogue Introduction

February 10th - Friday - Emotion Flash Fiction

Full details can be found HERE or by clicking the Button at the top of this post.

I've registered for all three of these challenges and HOPE to complete them all. Wish me luck - there are prizes involved! :)

'STARQUEST' 'CHILDREN OF THE MIST' (The sequel to Starquest) Dancing With Fate 'Freeread':'A BARGAIN WITH DEATH 'STARQUEST' 'CHILDREN OF THE MIST' (The sequel to Starquest) Dancing With Fate 'Freeread':'A BARGAIN WITH DEATH'

Also available on Kindle

INDIE-AUTHOR TAG PARTY BLOGFEST

noreply@blogger.com (Hywela Lyn) — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 09:30:00 +0000

This weekend I'm taking part in this wonderful Tag-Party, today and tomorrow.
The idea is to 'tag' the any books you wish on Amazon.
Here are the links to my books, Starquest, Children Of the Mist and Dancing With Fate, on Amazon/Kindle

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Starquest-ebook/dp/B001GS77RO/ref=sr_1_cc_2?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1328390054&sr=1-2-catcorr

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Children-Of-The-Mist-ebook/dp/B002HMC7VE/ref=pd_rhf_ee_p_t_4

http://www.amazon.co.uk/DANCING-WITH-FATE-ebook/dp/B005MGU31I/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1328390267&sr=1-3 http://www.amazon.co.uk/DANCING-WITH-FATE-ebook/dp/B005MGU31I/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1328390267&sr=1-3

Once you're on Amazon's page please feel free to hit the like button on the top of the page and if you scroll to the bottom, just agree with those tags if you feel they're appropriate.That's all you need to do to join our tag party.

For those unsure about tagging - A Tag is a key word or words readers associate with a book. The higher the number of readers selecting a specific keyword, the higher that book moves on the list in searches for that keyword.

And tagging is easy! Just click on the link each of the authors have provided at their blogs, scroll down to the list of tags and click on all those you think apply to the book (you have to be logged into Amazon to tag).

The great idea was thought up by the talended Francine Howarth. Please visit her blog so you can discover other talented authors and their fantastic eBooks. By liking and tagging those authors you'll be helping them gain a little more recognition and hopefully, more sales. (and we could all do with a few of those) :)

Thank you so much and I hope you find lots of new authors for you reading list.

Oh - and if you leave me a comment I'll put you in a draw to win a free download of 'Dancing With Fate'

(And I apologise to anyone who's visited my blog and this post wasn't up - it's been one of 'those days' and I've been chasing my tail all day and forgot to check. *smacks wrist* Late again! I am sorry - but better late than never)

'STARQUEST' 'CHILDREN OF THE MIST' (The sequel to Starquest) Dancing With Fate 'Freeread':'A BARGAIN WITH DEATH '

Also available on Kindlehttp://tgunwriter.blogspot.com/

Melissa Douthit with an interview and giveway

noreply@blogger.com (Hywela Lyn) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 09:00:00 +0000

AFTER YOU'VE READ MELISSA'S INTERVIEW, CHECK OUT HER FANTASTIC CONTEST TO WIN A KINDLE OR A $100 GIFT CERTIFICATE, AT THE END OF THIS POST! ALSO EVERYONE WHO LEAVES A COMMENT WILL BE ENTERED IN A DRAW FOR A FREE DOWNLOAD OF HER BOOK

Yesterday I posted my review of Melissa Douthit's wonderful Y A Fantasy Novel, The Firelight of Maalda, the second in her trilogy. Today it is my great pleasure to here here in person.

Good morning Melissa, please make yourself comfortable and feel free to ask the dispenser-bot to serve you with your favourite snack and beverage.
The first question I have for you is one I'm sure a lot of readers are curious about, and that is:

What is the earliest story you can remember writing?

I remember writing a story for my 6th grade class about my friend, Jenny, and me when we went for a trail ride on our ranch. This was back in the day when my family bought and sold horses. I rode my horse and Jenny rode our pony, Sammy. Sammy was infamous for throwing off every rider who ever attempted to ride him but Jenny insisted that she knew what she was doing and that it wouldn’t happen to her. Well ... guess what. It did. The story was so hilarious, I wrote it down for my whole class to hear that day my teacher asked me to read it out loud. Even Jenny laughed during the reading. I still remember it to this day.

LOL, I seem to remember having a few friends like that myself. One shouldn't really laugh I suppose, but it's quite funny when someone who thnks they can 'ride anything' ends up biting the dust - as long as it's only their pride that's hurt anyway. So, getting back to 'The Firelight of Maalda', where did the idea for this book come from?

A short prequel to The RaieChaelia

The background theme of the book came from my professional experience, first working at Lawrence Livermore National Lab, which is a nuclear weapons lab, and then working at the Naval Postgraduate School, where I worked down in the basement in a vault, sifting through and analyzing secret data. It had HUGE influence on this trilogy.

The story of Chalice and Jeremiah - part of it came from the experience of my own life and my own relationships and part of the story, the plot itself, just came really out of nowhere. I knew I wanted to write about a strong heroine and I also wanted to write a trilogy, so one day, I sat down and started writing notes of different ideas. The notes eventually became an outline and then the outline eventually became book one, and so on.

Wow, what a fascinating work history you have, and having read 'Firelight' I see what you mean about it being an influence on your trilogy. How long did it take to write?

The first book took a few months once I started really writing it. I wrote a couple chapters in 2007 and then stopped and didn’t start up again until 2010. The time in between was a time in my life that was too busy for writing. The second book took about six months. Much of the time was taken up with “pre-writing.” Pre-writing is when an author blankly stares out into space, thinking of possible ideas and scenes that will go into the book. This happens to me all the time, which is why I either keep my computer with me or a pen and pad of paper.

Short prequel #2

*Grin*, yes I know what you mean about 'pre-writing'!

Did you always intend for the story that started with The Raie Chaelia to become a series?

Yes, I knew from the beginning that this was going to be a trilogy. It will become very obvious when the third book is written and the readers see how everything in book one and book two is tied together with book three. I would have made the whole trilogy into one book if I could, but I am not like Brandon Sanderson and I can’t get away with writing a thousand page book. =o)

LOL, and there are two prequels as well, although admittedly they're quite short. So did you plan the book out, if so did you get led to other locations while writing, different characters coming along, different slants to the story etc.?

Definitely! As Dave Farland says: “The story grows in the telling.” I had a rough outline of the story but the details still needed to be worked out. Magda was a character that just popped into my head at the last moment. So was Thaene.

And they're both great characters, and fit into the plot perfectly. How long, on average, did it take to write this book compared with the others in the series?

I felt like this one was faster. I knew exactly what I wanted to write, it was just a matter of finding time to do it with a full time job, a house, a dog, and kids to take care of at home. =o)

Gosh, yes, you certainly do have your hands full. Do you have a favorite character from your books? And if so, why do you like them above all the others?

Bunejab is my favorite character. He is the Chinuk, which is a small furry creature that befriends the main characters in the story. I love Buney for so many reasons but the most important is his loyalty to his friends and to his mission that was passed down to him by his father from his grandfather and great-grandfather.

Oh yes, he's a cutie isn't he, and I love that he's such a clever little fellow as well. Looking at the ships chronograph, I see we're nearly at the end of this interview, can't believe how quickly time flies. One thing I always ask my guests though is - do you have any advice for new writers?

Don’t try to write to the market. Write what you love and you will be much happier ... and it will show in your writing. Also, when you decide to publish, know that there are many choices out there now for writers. You can try to break into the traditional publishing world (large press or small press), which right now is very hard. Or you can go indie - publishing on your own. Research both avenues and decide which is best for you.

The first book in the trilogy

Very sound advice, Melissa, you're so right about the choices available to writes today, and I do agree about writing what you love. The great SF writer Anne McCaffrey said just that when I contacted her and told her I wanted to write, myself.

One last question, just for fun. If you could be any of the animals featured in your book, which one would it be?

I would be a Naezzi. I would love to be able to breathe fire and fly through the skies with ease. Yes! Definitely a Naezzi! =o)

Oh yes, wouldn't that be incredible - and riding one would be almost as good. Well, that's the end of the interview, thanks so much for being my guest today and for sharing your books with us. Let's finish with a short excerpt from 'The Firelight of Maalda'.

The Second book in the trilogy

The statue began to move. Radiating a myriad of colors, its outer shell rippled like the surface of a dark pond disturbed by a strong wind. It was slow at first and then faster and faster until the statue was no longer a statue but a living, fire-breathing creature that rose slowly from the ground and towered over her menacingly. Its fiery eyes threatened her and it’s breath created a fierce, blistering gale as flames shot from its snout. It stood almost as high as the outer wall of the fortress and gleamed in its own firelight, it’s dark, smooth, obsidian skin reflecting a pale cast over everything near it. It had a long neck and body with strong, bulging legs and arms ending in black, razor-sharp claws that could cut through anything. Sharply pointed horns protruded from its forehead, snout, and tail as well as decorating the ridge line of its back. It had two sets of wings that stretched so far out that its wingspan blocked much of the night sky above her. Opening its mouth in a savage snarl, it positioned itself to strike.

And don't forget to answer Melissa's question at the end of this post, for a chance to win her fantastic prize!

Check out the blog tour schedule and find more reviews, interviews HERE

Melissa Douthit grew up in North County of San Diego, California. After graduating with a Computer Science degree in Southern California, and working for a summer at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory in New Mexico, she moved to the Bay Area to work at NASA Ames Research Center for a year and then at Lawrence Livermore National Lab for another four years. From there, she moved to Monterey, California, to work at the Naval Postgraduate School on a government project for two years. She currently lives in Salt Lake City, Utah, working with the Army Corps of Engineers on another government project. Since high school, she has been a voracious reader of books of all genres, with an emphasis in fantasy and science fiction. Her literary work is strongly influenced by her professional experience and includes many elements of her scientific background.

LINKS

Amazon

B&N

Contact Melissa at her website

Melissa at Amazon

Tumblr

Goodreads

Twitter

Facebook

Book One and the Prequels are FREE on Smashwords and Amazon:

Book One THE RAIE CHAELIA

ALSO AT

http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/62611

Prequels:

THE JOURNEY BEGINS

THE VANISHING

http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/75235

http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/73993

C O N T E S T

Leave a comment to be entered in the draw to win a free download of Melissa's book - Contest ends 8th February,2012

PLUS

Enter a drawing and win a free-E-reader of your choice or a $100 gift certificate to your favorite store by answering the following question:

What animal in The Firelight of Maalda would Melissa like to be?

To answer the question go to this link and fill in the information (place answer in Message field):

http://melissadouthit.com/contact-me-2/

Contest ends March 10, 2012. Winner will be announced March 11th on Melissa Douthit's Blog.

*Please contact Melissa if you have further questions on her giveaway*

The Firelight of Maalda - Book II of The Raie Chaelia trilogy

noreply@blogger.com (Hywela Lyn) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0000

THE FIRELIGHT OF MAALDA by Melissa Douthit
is the second book in the Raie Chaelia trilogy. (There are also two short 'prequels' and they and Book 1 are available free on Smashwords and Amazon.

The Firelight of Maalda: A story that unites the real with the fantastical and turns science into magic …

Chalice and her group leave Barenthren to travel to Portalis. There she and her friends discover the beautiful city, its people, its history, and its secret that has been kept hidden for thousands of years. During their stay, they learn that Dar’Maalda has the Firestone and that he plans to use it.

What is the Firestone and what does Dar’Maalda plan to do with it? What are the Naezzi? What does the title, The Firelight of Maalda, really mean? And … what is the secret of Portalis, the secret that has been guarded so jealously for so long – so jealously, that many have given their lives to protect it?

In The Firelight of Maalda, the second novel of the trilogy, The Legend of the Raie’Chaelia, you find out. It is a tale of intrigue and wonder where two opposite worlds collide in an explosive journey that leads Chalice and her friends to the dark islands lurking just beyond the horizon of Ielieria, where the Firelight of Maalda sits … and waits.

This is a YA series for age 13 upwards. Having said that, I'm sure many 'older' readers will enjoy it as much as I did. The story continues the story begun in The RaieChaelia and reveals more of the characters and the wondeful world Melissa Douthit has created. I really enjoyed reading the first book, The Raie Chaelia, as well as the short sequels, but I did think there were a few anomalies which didn't seem to quite fit in with her magical world and seemed to reflect a little too much on her own. In The Firelight of Maalda, these anomalies are touched upon and as I read I realised that these were purely intentional. In fact they serve, I think, to project a subtle, ecological message.

This story continues Chalice's journey to fulfil her destiny, and the growing romance between her and Jeremiah. She and Jeremiah knew each other as children, and meet up again at the beginning of The Raie Chaelia. Their friendship has grown into something deeper and in The Firelight of Maalda both characters, but especially Chalice, have grown and matured emotionally and I found it particularly satisfying that their love is not only acknowledged but their sweet romance seems completely natural and uncontrived. There is a touching tenderness between them, they are both strong characters but neither feels complete without the other and their love and respect for each other shines through even when they are not entirely in agreement.

There is a lot more to this story than romance though, there is plenty of action and suspense. A deadly enemy must be defeated and the fate of a world hangs in the balance. Chalice also has to contend with prejudice and an annoying tendency for people to patronise her and try to control her. There is a large cast of characters, and some of those from the first book make a welcome re-appearance. In addition to the human protagonists, there is a cute little creature called Bunejab who actually has a very important role to play, several horses, including Chalice's beautiful palomino, 'Sunny ', and Jeremiah's 'Banner', as well as the Naezzies who have every reason to hate humankind.

The story moves at a fast pace to the nail biting climax and a cliffhanger of an ending - I'm really glad Melissa gave us a taste of the next book to answer at least one of my questions, and I can't wait for the third in the series.

THE FIRELIGHT OF MAALDA - AVAILABLE FROM:

Amazon

Barnes &Noble

PS: I think this book stands very well by itself, but your understanding and enjoyment would probably be even greater from reading the first book in the series, and the prequels. You can do so for FREE

Book One and the Prequels are FREE on Smashwords and Amazon:

Book One:

http://www.amazon.com/The-RaieChaelia-ebook/dp/B00534QD18/ref=as_li_tf_ssw?&linkCode=wss&tag=cookingcalifo-20

http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/62611

Prequels:

http://www.amazon.com/Vanishing-Legend-RaieChaelia-Prequel-ebook/dp/B005DRX5Q6/ref=pd_sim_kstore_22

http://www.amazon.com/Journey-Begins-RaieChaelia-Prequel-ebook/dp/B005D3FZXQ/ref=pd_sim_kstore_17

http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/75235
http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/73993

Here are Melissa's contact links:

Website:

Amazon:

Tumblr:

Goodreads:

Twitter:

Facebook:

Please join me here again tomorrow, when Melissa herself will be answering some questions I posed for her

as well as posing her own question where you could win a free e-reader of your choice or a $100 gift certificate to your favorite store

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'Freeread':'A BARGAIN WITH DEATH '

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FALLENWOOD by Leslie D Soule - Review and guest post

noreply@blogger.com (Hywela Lyn) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0000

Tour Contest

Leslie will be giving away a $25 Barnes and Noble Gift Card to one randomly drawn commenter during the tour as well as to the host with the most comments. Comment on each blog tour stop to increase your chances. Full list of tour stops can be found HERE

Today I'm delighted to welcome Leslie Soule to my blog as part of her Blog Tour . I've just read her book 'Fallenwood' and here are my thoughts on the story:

Fallenwood—a land where magic is the life force, dragons are sages, and wizards good and evil battle for supremacy. When 23-year-old Ash is thrust into the middle of Fallenwood’s power struggles, she is also forced to face her own inner battles. Life on Earth was hard enough on Ash, who is locked in grief for her stepfather. Now, the fate of Fallenwood rests on her shoulders. She must destroy the Great Crystal—the catalyst for all the land’s magic. As the kingdoms prepare for war, Ash must look inside to find the power to save the world, and herself.

I really enjoyed this delightful tale of a young girl finding faith in herself, and a reason to go on - of adventure, prophesies, and romance. Like all good fantasies, it has its dark moments, but these are necessary before the final hurdle can be overcome. The heroine, Ashley Kensington, is in the depths of despair when the book opens, mourning the death of her stepfather, to whom she was closer than she is to her mother. After scattering the ashes (is it a coincidence she is called 'Ash'?) she wanders into the woods and is transported through a portal into another world - an 'alternate' Earth, but one where magic is commonplace - and has a heavy price!

The other characters in this book are many and varied, so many in fact I had a job to keep track of them sometimes, but that was due more to my own shortcomings than to the writing. Characters with weird and wonderful names, and not all human either. There is a talking cat called 'Greymalkin', who had not always been a cat, a beautiful but deadly black unicorn, an evil toad, an ancient wolf who guards a crystal of ultimate power, and, of course, dragons. The humans are, for the most part very likeable and easy to relate to, apart from the 'villains' of course, some of whom hide their darker side beneath a surface of charm and good looks. You will meet wizards and magicians, gypsies and a jester, Kings, Queens and a Prince or two and they are all beautifully painted, with interesting and varied personalities. I have to to say I especially liked Will, who is a cental character in the book, and not only a kind of monk, but a magician with his own secret.

The journey for Ash is long and difficult, but along the way she makes friends, as well as the odd enemy or two - and finds her Prince. Most importantly though, she discovers a new faith in herself and a sense of purpose, leaving behind the hopelessness and dreary future she'd envisaged in the world she had known. If I were asked to be critical, I might say there is rather a lot of 'telling' in the narrative, especially in the first few chapters, but this is really being rather 'picky' as it in no way detracted from my enjoyment of the story. There are some really beautiful passages, and much of the description is so vivid and well drawn, I could visualise them as if they were illustrated in colour on the page, or rather, screen.

Altogether a thoroughly enjoyable story, with all the elements required in a good fantasy, including a satisfing love interest. I would not hesitate to recommend it for young adults and more mature adults alike. Now I'll step back to let Leslie herself, to tell us about her world building, and how much is actually based on fact and how much is pure fantasy.

Over to you Leslie:

World-Building: Fact and Fantasy

Leslie D. Soule

Hello there! Thanks for inviting me to join you today.

So the question has been posed as to how much fact versus fantasy I’ve used in the process of building the fantasy world of Fallenwood. For me, this goes back to a debate I had with a co-worker of mine, and an essay by C.S. Lewis where he talks about what fantasy really is. With the debate, my co-worker and I were talking about where ideas are derived from. He argued that when writing fantasy, your ideas shouldn’t be a rip-off of something you’ve seen before – “derivative”, which he used as a derogatory term for something. I argued that everything is essentially derivative of something else, and that there’s nothing wrong with that.

So it’s hard to claim that something is a unique product or creation of mine, because the act of creation involves derivation. Here I’m going to explain the C.S. Lewis essay – he talked about how to create a fantasy item – his formula involved taking two common things like gold and a tree, and combining them to make a gold tree, which doesn’t exist in reality. One of the things I created for Fallenwood was a pack of dragons that usher in the new day, called the Dragons of the Dawn. There are four of them, each a different color. However, claiming them as mine becomes problematic if I think about how I created them – by taking a staple of fantasy literature, dragons, and combining them with the Sword of the Dawn from Castlevania: Symphony of the Night (an excellent game, by the way). In the same way, Greymalkin is derived from the “Greymalkin” mentioned in Macbeth and from the talking Redwall creatures I’d read about when I was a child.

Although I can claim the finished products as my own, the things they are derived from are most assuredly not. Let’s see…Magic having a Curse was my idea, but the idea of magic needing a “price” came from the book How To Write Sci-Fi and Fantasy by Orson Scott Card. Portals connecting two worlds is a staple of fantasy literature and I cannot claim to own it by any means – it’s been used by C.S. Lewis, Lewis Carroll, and whoever wrote the screenplay for the made for TV movie The Tenth Kingdom. Most of the people in Fallenwood are based on real people I’ve known. A big free-hanging crystal in a cave that needs to be destroyed can be found in The Dark Crystal, but there are also crystals in the original Final Fantasy game.

I’d like to stake my claim on the black unicorn, but I know it’s been done before and by other people as well, and I think Terry Brooks even has a book titled The Black Unicorn. Dragon teeth creating soldiers is from mythology, as is Discordia from the Pan-Experiential. The Pan-Experiential itself is sort of Matrix-derived, I suppose, because if you die in your dream, you die in real life. I’ve borrowed its rules from the Matrix. So….there ya go! I think it’s easy to see how the parts themselves are derived to create unique things, just like C.S. Lewis explained.

Thanks for having me here!

It's a pleasure to have you, and that was really interesting, Leslie. I'm a great admirer of both C S Lewis and Orson Scott Card, myself, and I think, just as there is supposed to be a finite number of plots, there are also a finite number of original fantasy or S F elements. In my own writing I tend to draw a lot on ancient myths and legends, especially those of my native Wales, and combine and enlarge different aspects to try and create something different and as original as possible. I think this is actually how most writers work, in whatever genre, taking a variety of ideas and weaving them into something new and different and unique to themselves.

As a horse lover, I empathised with your black unicorn and was hoping she would not be destroyed in the final part of your book - and I loved your 'Dragons Of The Dawn' which conjured up a beautiful picture in my mind. Thank you so much for being here today and sharing some of the background to 'Fallenwood' with us.

FALLENWOOD
Excerpt One:

Tears blinded her. She couldn’t stop and even the rough winds couldn’t scatter the wild thoughts that swirled in her mind—memories of her stepfather, words that people had said at his service, images of her mother and that stupid grin she wore—all she could do was run. Ashley was deeply wounded but was powerless to heal this kind of pain. She’d looked into the face of evil. Her feet hit the gravel, and the wind whipped at her face as she tried to outrun her anguish. She closed her eyes for a split second, and the wind stilled, and she stopped. Ashley looked around her. It had suddenly become night, and she was now in an unfamiliar part of the woods.

Excerpt Two:

The dragon’s eyes glowed, for a flickering moment, with white light.

“Ash,” the dragon continued, “Welcome to Terra Illumina…or as it is more commonly known, Fallenwood.” Then a fierce roaring laugh erupted from the stone, as though the dragon thought the new name a joke. “A dark, difficult, dangerous path lies before you, Ash Kensington.”

Ash’s heart grew heavy. In truth, she knew that she was destined to some terrible, dark fate. For so long, her life was filled with sadness and doubt, and one horrible thing after another. What else can I hope for?

“But Ash, you must not lose hope. Our world needs you..."

Leslie Soule lives in Sacramento, California. Fallenwood is her first fantasy novel. She has received her B.A. in English from Sacramento State University and is currently working on her Master’s degree in English at National University.

Website: www.lesliesoule.com

Price: $4.99
Pages: 194
Genre: Fantasy
Publisher: Decadent Publishing
PURCHASE FALLENWOOD HERE

And to whet your appetite further, here is the trailer for 'Fallenwood'

Don't forget to leave a comment, with your email address, if you'd like to be included in the Prize Draw

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Also available on Kindle

The Fall of Rain Book tour

noreply@blogger.com (Hywela Lyn) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 09:30:00 +0000

The Fall of Rain

(Book Three of the Emerald Isle Trilogy)

by Renee Vincent

I'm sorry to be late posting this, many apologies to Renee and CBLA. I'm really keen to share information about Renee and this book, partly because I find Norse history and legends absolutely fascinating, and also because, as well as writing, Renee and I share a love of horses and riding.

Blurb:

Leif Dæganssen, an archeologist from Norway, is determined to trace back his Scandinavian roots as far as the Dark Ages and find proof of their existence on the Emerald Isle. After several years of living off the west coast of Ireland, he finally uncovers an ancient artifact—an intricately decorated chest with pagan carvings—buried beneath the very porch of his coastal cottage. Knowing it only confirms the presence of a glorified Norse-influenced settlement on Inis Mór, he’s determined to establish a link between himself and those who once inhabited the rugged isle.

For as long as she can remember, Lorraine O’Connor has had dreams of a Norse warrior kissing her. And even though she’s never fully understood the reason for her vivid subconscious imagination, she welcomes the meaningless and wanton pleasure of being in a Viking’s protective embrace—until the day she meets that brazen Northman on an impulsive vacation trip to Ireland.

Though blindsided by the relevance of her dreams and the strange familiarity of the man within them, Lorraine can’t help but feel a deep-seated intimacy toward Leif. And the more she gets to know him, the more she’s convinced they’ve shared a life together in a time long forgotten.

Are the clues to their ancestral past hidden within the contents of the chest or buried deep within their hearts?

Excerpt:

Leif laughed inwardly as he heard the lock engage. Lorraine was definitely an odd sort of female, with all her outlandish outbursts and peculiar reactions, but no less interesting. She had this way about her that made him pay close attention, made him want to pay close attention, else he might miss something. No woman had ever been able to do that to him.

He was not a man easily beguiled. ‘Exceedingly picky’ were Kristoff’s words on many occasions when they could’ve had a few choice opportunities with several of the women who entered Tí Joe Mac’s Pub in Kilronan. But he always found a way to stay clear of them. Either their hair was too short, their fingers too long, or they were excessively giggly over anyone who spoke Gaelic to them. No matter how beautiful they were to the eye, Leif always managed to find some flaw, an imperfection he couldn’t get passed.

The only imperfection Lorraine possessed, if he could call it that, was being unreadable. Even then, he couldn’t rightfully hold it against her. He was glad that she left him guessing, left him wondering what she’d say or do next. Every time he spoke to her, he had no idea what would come out of her mouth.

And what a pretty mouth it was.

Her lips were a delicate shade of rose and looked just as supple as the petals from which its color derived. He imagined they felt as soft and delicate in a kiss, and longed to taste them, to press his lips against her and savor every blessed moment of it while watching her eyes close in automatic response.

Oh, those eyes…

Their exquisite brilliance utterly entranced him. He couldn’t look away no matter how hard he tried. They shone as bright and vivid as the intrinsic color of an emerald, with flecks of lighter green pigments fissuring throughout.

Though he’d stared at them as if they were rare jewels tucked within the hilt of a Viking warrior’s ceremonially-bent sword, uncovered from a sacred burial site, he couldn’t help but feel he was gazing into something he’d known and seen before. Words could not describe what he felt, except that his longing was innate—as if her eyes and all its wonders had been engraved on him from years past.

Again, he laughed inwardly, reminding himself that his entire week had fallen into the epitome of the absurd. Between finding the carved chest of treasured antiquities buried beneath his porch to having a gorgeous woman bathe in his home, he could hardly believe his bizarre stroke of luck.

He quickly left the hallway and entered the kitchen, flipping the nearly burned fish in the pan. The unrelenting vision of her slick wet body clung to him like a wet blanket, drenched with his own lustful musings of what she’d feel like if he dared to touch her. At least, he was glad to know he was still a red-blooded man. As many times as Kristoff had ridiculed him for his lack of interest, tonight he didn’t have to ponder his gender. It was as plain as the nose on his face, and stuck out a bit further than he cared to admit.

Reaching down, he shifted himself, trying to award his erection some more room in his jeans, while cursing it all the same. “Now is not the time.”

“Not the time for what? Dinner?”

Leif turned at the sound of Lorraine’s voice, not expecting anyone to be behind him, and almost knocked the pan off the stove. He caught it by the handle, fortunately, steadying it before it slid off the edge.

“I take it you’re not used to a woman in your home,” she stated discernibly.

Heaving a sigh, he smiled. “How was your shower?”

“Exhilarating.”

I’m sure it was. “Good.” He rallied his best casual voice and turned back to the fish, still simmering on the stove. As he resumed cooking, he secretly regarded the way the small swell of her breasts put curves in his oversized T-shirt that her raincoat had once hidden. Though her dainty figure had been virtually swallowed up by his cotton drawstring sweats, he knew somewhere beneath all that fabric was an enticing set of feminine curves.

“Since my clothes were still damp, I hung them over the shower rod to dry,” she confessed. “I hope that’s all right.”

His grip tightened on the handle. The image of a lace-lined bra and delicate panties, hanging in his bathroom flashed in his mind and he could do little about the smile teasing the corners of his lips. Without facing her, he shrugged his shoulders, pretending he hardly cared and changed the subject. “I hope you’re hungry,” he replied, fisting a quartered lemon above the pan-seared cod and dousing it with lemon juice. “I’ve made enough for the whole village it seems.”

He thought he heard a slight chuckle, regretting that he’d probably missed the first opportunity to see her smile. But he kept to his mission of transferring the food to the two plates sitting on the adjacent counter. That little feat required more of his attention given he wasn’t much of a practiced chef.

“It smells delicious.”

Adding the final touches to the plate with a few island flowers he’d picked days ago—only because he heard from the more experienced chefs in Dublin’s pricey restaurants that presentation was everything—and a slice of soda bread on top, he turned around and caught her looking at him. Her eyes, however, did not meet his until they jumped up from a lower direction.

She cleared her voice and looked away, feigning that she had ever been looking at his arse. Leif was not a stupid man, nor did things often get passed him, but for her sake, he acted as if he were none the wiser.

“Please. Have a seat.”

She did as he suggested, wringing her hands in the extra T-shirt cloth at her waist.

She’s still nervous.

For that reason, he sat in the seat directly across from her instead of next to her where they could share the same corner of the table. Disappointed as he was, he refused to show it, keeping a keen eye on her facial expressions and body posture. At the present, she sat stiff-backed in the chair, her eyes fixed on the bounty of food he placed in front of her.

A quick grin teased her lips when she saw the white and yellow daisy garnishing the corner of her plate. She never said a word in regards to his makeshift embellishment, but the smile that hung about thereafter was enough for him.

She didn’t waste any time taking her first bite, closing her eyes as she pulled the fork from her mouth. Her shoulders melted and a slight hum reverberated from her lips.

“Does that mean it’s good?”

“Are you kidding?” she asked, her eyes nervously diverting from his the moment they met. “This is the best pan-seared fish I’ve ever had.”

He shook his head, forking his first bite. “Now I’m convinced you have a concussion.”

“I’m serious. I’ve never had fish like this before. Most times it’s fried to a crisp or bland as hell.”

“Well, I don’t know much about Kentucky, but I believe they’re known for their horses, not herbs.” He took another generous bite and waited. “That wasn’t funny?”

She mildly smiled and stuffed a piece of bread in her mouth. “You make a better cook than a comedian.”

“Ah, look at that. Give the small town Kentucky girl a hot shower and some food and she’s as good as new.”

Another smile. That one he was sure to catch.

“I don’t know about all that,” she replied uncertainly.

“Well, you’re gaining a bit of confidence. It’s good to know you’re less fearful of me.”

Her hand froze, her fork stuck in another cut of fish. “I don’t fear you, Leif. I just don’t know you.”

He set his utensil down and crossed his arms, eager to finally delve into a meaningful discussion. “What is it you’d like to know?”

I shied from his intrusive eyes, feeling the heat of his stare setting me ablaze.

He leaned in. “I know you are avoiding me because you feel ‘tis right. ‘Tis moral. ‘Tis safer. But you needn’t fear me.”

I took a deep breath. “I fear you not, Dægan. I simply know not enough about you.”

His face recoiled slightly as if my choice of words had stunned him. He released me and crossed his arms in front of him. “What would you like to know?”

“Rain?”

Leif’s voice caught her off guard and she looked around, confused, the name Dægan echoing in her ears. She blinked, staring at the man across from her, his face illustrating as much bewilderment as her own.

“You all right?” he asked, reaching for her hand.

Instantly, she pulled away, trying to gather her wits. It seemed she’d hear Leif’s words in the same minute she’d hear the exact same thing from a man by the name of Dægan.

What the hell was wrong with her? Why did she keep seeing things that weren’t really there or hear conversations from an unknown past, which were so akin to what she was talking about now?

“You blacked out for a moment,” he explained.

“I did?” The question came out of her mouth even though she knew she had gone somewhere else, somewhere that seemed like memories. It was as if she were having personal recollections of long ago, which involved her and a Norse warrior in some uncanny fashion.

“Yeah, you did. I asked you what you wanted to know about me, and suddenly, your eyes glazed over. You stared straight forward, but focused on nothing. Are you sure you’re all right? Perhaps we need to wake up the good doc.”

She fidgeted in her chair. The thought of a doctor looking her over and determining she was categorically crazy was not in her vacation plans. She tried to go back to her normal routine of eating, forking another bite of fish to prove to him, if not herself, he was overreacting. “Really, I’m fine. You shouldn’t worry. I just need to finish eating and get some rest. I’ve had a long day.”

Again, he didn’t look convinced. But what else could she say? She was as lost as he was when it came to her “blacking out” and no amount of pondering it could procure a logical explanation.

For the rest of the meal, they both lost their tongues for small talk and the only sound heard was the casual clinking of silverware on their plates. It was just as well, since neither seemed to know what to say anyway. Despite the great food and warm hospitality Leif had provided her, Lorraine wanted nothing more than to be alone. To lie down with her thoughts and hopefully be exhausted enough to sleep.

She prayed for sleep. Sleep without dreams. Somehow, as she glanced over at Leif looking at her in the most concerned way, she didn’t think she’d get her wish.

Buy Links:

Amazon print: http://www.amazon.com/Fall-Rain-Emerald-Isle-Trilogy/dp/1937389553/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1322576302&sr=1-1

Kindle: http://www.amazon.com/Fall-Rain-Emerald-Trilogy-ebook/dp/B006HM9QZA/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1323032349&sr=1-2

Nook: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-fall-of-rain-renee-vincent/1107867696?ean=2940013440005&itm=1&usri=renee+vincent

Turquoise Morning Press: https://www.createspace.com/3729821

All Romance eBooks: http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-thefallofrain-651760-140.html

Smashwords: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/110678

Bookstrand: http://www.bookstrand.com/the-fall-of-rain

About The Author:

I am an author with a passionate interest in Irish and Norse history. I live in the rolling hills of Kentucky with my husband and two children on a beautiful secluded farm of horses and hay fields.

When I am not writing, I love to spend my time on the back of a horse, whether with my family or with my friends. There is nothing like feeling the sunlight on your face, the wind in your hair, and the power of the animal beneath you as you enjoy the beautiful scenery. Seeing the world from a saddle is, by far, the best view and the best therapy for a heavy heart or a troubled mind. My therapist's name, or my horse's, rather, is "Statues Suddenly Lucky", a full-blooded Tennessee Walker, and of course, he goes by the name of Lucky for short.

I am a sucker for a good cup of coffee (lots of cream and sugar...and whipped cream if I can get my hands on it), great conversation, and a lilting Irish accent. I love to read and I can't resist watching great epic historical movies.

Links:

Website: http://www.reneevincent.com

Blog: http://www.pasttheprint.blogspot.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/reneevincentauthor

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ReneeVincent

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3005290.Renee_Vincent

Deep In The Heart Romance: http://www.deepintheheartromance.com/

Publisher:

Turquoise Morning Press http://www.turquoisemorningpress.com/

Organizations:

Romance Writers of America http://www.rwanational.org/

Kentucky Romance Writers http://www.kentuckyromancewriters.com/

Ohio Valley Romance Writers http://www.ovrwa.com/

Celtic Hearts Romance Writers: http://www.celtichearts.org/

Hearts Through History: http://www.heartsthroughhistory.com/

Reviews:

Ræliksen

*Winner of two categories by Love Romances Café

“Best Book Cover 2010”

“Best Historical 2010”

“This book and author earn my highest recommendations and I feel privileged to have read one of the best. It is a must read for any lover of historical romance or even lovers of romance in general.”
~ 5 Stars TOP PICK ~ Night Owl Reviews

“…this story is realistic, historically accurate and unforgettable; a story you will remember long after the last page is read.”

~ 5 Blue Ribbons! ~ Romance Junkies

“Every word of this story has meaning. Every moment leads to the next. Every word is simultaneously natural and brilliant, each one holding an unmistakable place in history with the telling of this tale.”

~ Author Sarah Ballance

Mac Liam

*Winner of the “5 Heart Sweetheart” Award

from The Romance Studio

“It comes alive and winds its way into your heart. This is a must-read for anyone who enjoys historical romance and I cannot wait to read the final book of the trilogy as this story has stayed with me days after I read the last word.”

~ 5 Hearts ~ The Romance Studio

“I will admit to being skeptical that this story would capture me as much as the first had, but I was blown away by the awesomeness that is Mac Liam. Ms. Vincent surpassed all of my expectations with her impressive writing abilities, while offering more incites and revelations that will keep readers coming back for more.”

~ 5 Stars TOP PICK ~ Night Owl Reviews

“The steadfast, true love Ms. Vincent creates in Mac Liam takes one’s breath away.

A memorable, satisfying story!”
~ 4.5 Books ~ Long And Short Reviews

Silent Partner

"Ms. Vincent’s writing has the unique ability of capturing both the reader’s heart and mind… I thoroughly enjoyed everything about this story and would love to see it become a movie. Another highly recommended read by Renee Vincent!"

~ "5 Star TOP PICK" ~ Night Owl Reviews

Her writing sparkles, and given this is the author’s first attempt at contemporary mainstream romance, she creates the right impact for settings, pace and conflict. Her balance of the self-absorbed hero meeting emotionally challenged heroine is stunning because of her research into the heroine’s background. This book is a keeper."
~ "LASR BEST BOOK" ~ Long And Short Reviews

Renee's other hosts on her book tour can be found here: http://cblspromotions.blogspot.com/2012/01/blog-barrage-fall-of-rain-book-three-of.html.

'STARQUEST' 'CHILDREN OF THE MIST' (The sequel to Starquest) Dancing With Fate 'Freeread':'A BARGAIN WITH DEATH 'STARQUEST' 'CHILDREN OF THE MIST' (The sequel to Starquest) Dancing With Fate 'Freeread':'A BARGAIN WITH DEATH'

Also available on Kindle

UPDATE ON SHARON

noreply@blogger.com (Hywela Lyn) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 11:22:00 +0000

Poor Sharon's surgery has been delayed yet again! She is now due to have it late this morning (Thursday) Please continue to send your prayers for her, I spoke to her last night and she wanted me to thank everyone who's sent messages and prayers, and voted for her book, and to give you all her love. It's a little difficult to keep track of all the kind messages, and everyone who knows Sharon loves her, and admires her so much for her courage and determination and we're all praying and willing her to get through this and make a good recovery, so I'm going to set up a message post on Sharon's blog, like we did when she had her first major heart surgery. Her Blog address is: http://sharondonovan.blogspot.com/ and I'll try to keep it updated with her progress. Thanks again for all your prayers and warm wishes.

'STARQUEST' 'CHILDREN OF THE MIST' (The sequel to Starquest) Dancing With Fate 'Freeread':'A BARGAIN WITH DEATH 'STARQUEST' 'CHILDREN OF THE MIST' (The sequel to Starquest) Dancing With Fate 'Freeread':'A BARGAIN WITH DEATH'

Also available on Kindle

My friend Sharon Donovan

noreply@blogger.com (Hywela Lyn) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 15:29:00 +0000

As some of you may know, Sharon was due for a heart operation yesterday, but it was put back until today (Wednesday) and your Prayers would be so much appreciated. She's been through so much and is so brave and determined as well as talented.

I'd just like to add that her story in the WRP 'Jewel Of The Night' series 'Charade of Hearts' is nominated for best short Romance. If you'd like to vote for her story, here's the link:

http://www.critters.org/predpoll/shortstoryr.shtml

(It's the one starring her dishy virtual butler, Oliver.) Of course she can't tell people about the nomination herself at the moment, so if you think her story should win, please spread the word. It's a wonderful story, full of suspense and romance.

The main thing I ask for though, is to keep praying for her to be able to go through this operation with Faith and courage, and to come out of it with renewed strength and soon be on the road to recovery.
Thank you so much. Last time I spoke to Sharon she asked me to send her love and thanks to everyone who's been praying and sending good wishes for her recover.

'STARQUEST' 'CHILDREN OF THE MIST' (The sequel to Starquest) Dancing With Fate 'Freeread':'A BARGAIN WITH DEATH 'STARQUEST' 'CHILDREN OF THE MIST' (The sequel to Starquest) Dancing With Fate 'Freeread':'A BARGAIN WITH DEATH'

Also available on Kindle

HAPPY 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Hywela Lyn) — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 23:01:00 +0000

I hope you all enjoyed a wonderful Christmas and that the New Year will bring you everything you wish yourselves. I've just returned from Wales, where I soaked up the clean (and wet) Welsh air, and visited my sisters and family and thought you might enjoy the New Year's fireworks display from London, which we all enjoyed last night whilst toasting the New Year with a glass or two of Bucks Fizz.

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!

Our Christmas tree

'STARQUEST' 'CHILDREN OF THE MIST' (The sequel to Starquest) Dancing With Fate
'Freeread':'A BARGAIN WITH DEATH '

Also available on Kindle

De Ja Vu Blogfest

noreply@blogger.com (Hywela Lyn) — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 00:00:00 +0000

The Deja Vu Blog Fest is today, December 16th, hosted by DL Hammons, Lydia Kang, Katie Mills and Nicole Ducleroir.
All of those taking part will re-post their favorite blog offering, or one that didn't receive the exposure they would have liked.
(I apologise for this posting late, I was not around much today and had a few problems with my internet connection and hadn't realised my post was not up.)

Check out the other participants HERE

Mine is quite an old entry - 2008 in fact, although it doesn't seem like more than a couple of years ago. 2008 was notable for three quite different events . The first, a sad one, was the loss of my beloved horse Sally (imortalised in my book 'Dancing With Fate'. The second and third events, much happier, were the release of my debut novel 'Starquest', preceded by the release of 'Dancing With Fate' by the Wild Rose Press as part of their 'Song Of The Muses' series. I've now regained my rights for that story and re-published it on 'Smashwords', but Starqest, and the sequel 'Children Of The Mist' are still available from The Wild Roise Press in print and ebook.

Ayway, here is the post I wrote in the spring of that year about my other two horses, Harry and T'pau.

Although I lost my little golden mare, Sally, at the beginning of the year, I still have my other two horses, Harry (Pentrepiod Sovereign) and 'Flying T'pau. Harrry is a lovely jet black Welsh Cob and an absolute sweetheart. T'pau is a gorgeous paint Quarterhorse mare, who likes to rule the roost and show Harry who's boss!

They are kept quite a long way from where we live, unfortunately. We don't have any land of our own but are lucky enough to be able to rent some land and buildings which we share with a friend. The land adjoins a bridleway so it's nice to be able to ride without having to go on the road.

This is the Bridleway (the narrow track winding into the distance)
It leads across some fields and then along a lovely leafy lane, over a little humpbacked bridge to some parkland.

We spent a lovely day today, just
'messing about' with the horses, moving fences and taking Bouncer for a walk along the bridleway. It was a bit too hot to ride, unfortunately, but Bouncer enjoyed himself sniffing in the hedges and tracking rabbits.

The summer rape is out now and the fields are looking lovely and green. When I'm walking or riding there are red kites flying overhead and we can hear the call of pheasants in the distance. I know some people love the city, but I'm a countrygirl and couldn't live anywhere where it wasn't green! England's countryside isn't as spectacular as my native Wales, but it's still very pretty. Much for my inspiration for my writing has come from being close to nature and her secrets, in the countryside

and to end with, and to give you 'two for the price of one' here is another post from earlier this year which I'd love to share with you again. If you care about the beautiful mustangs of the American West, please check out the 'Cloud Foundation'. There's a link in my sidebar.

'STARQUEST' 'CHILDREN OF THE MIST' (The sequel to Starquest) Dancing With Fate 'Freeread':'A BARGAIN WITH DEATH '

Also available on Kindle

Christmas reduction

noreply@blogger.com (Hywela Lyn) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 23:11:00 +0000

Christmas is coming, and to celebrate I'm offering 'Dancing With Fate' for just 99c (63p)

You can purchase it for this special price until 12th January 2012, so if you enjoy a story full of legendary magic and an enduring love story, take advantage of this bargain price.
HERE
For UK readers I am also offering autographed paperback copies at a special price of £3.50 email me at Hywelalyn@hywelalyn.co.uk for more details, and let me know what dedication you'd like.

A Tribute to Anne McCaffrey

noreply@blogger.com (Hywela Lyn) — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 12:49:00 +0000

ANNE McCAFFREY, the Irish/American Science Fiction writer, died on 21st November. This incredibly talented writer was my idol. I was enchanted by her 'Dragons of Pern' stories, and cried over 'The Ship Who Sang'. Many years ago. I wrote to her and was surprised and delighted to received a hand written postcard back, with the advice 'Write what you would like to read.' I've never forgotten it.

She wrote so many wonderful books - the first one I read was 'The Ship Who Sang', which I originally read as a short story and was delighted to find it had become a full length novel.

The story is about Helva, a severely disabled girl becomes the core of a starship, or Brainship, with her mind controlling all its major functions. Her brain had been saved and implanted into the titanium body of an intergalactic scout ship. The blurb says 'She had to choose a human partner, to soar with her through the daring adventures and exhilarating escapades in space.' This is actually a very moving love story but I won't say any more in case I spoil it for you if you have yet to read it.

She told Locus Magazine in 2004:

"I think the best story I ever wrote was 'The Ship Who Sang'. It still causes people to cry, including me. When Todd (her son) and I were reading it at Brighton, they had a BBC crew filming it. So there were these BBC cameramen hunkered down filming us, and comes the end of the story (which Todd always reads, because I can't go through it without weeping), I saw that these cameramen had tears rolling down their faces. That's such a thrill — a story I wrote at the beginning of my career, and it's still packin' the house."

Anne McCaffrey is probably best known for her 'dragons of Pern' stories. Pern was a distant planet settled by humans but threatened from time to time by life-destroying "Threads", which fell from a neighbouring planet. To combat these, the humans genetically modified a species of winged reptile, native to Pern, each one of which was bonded symbiotically with a human rider from the moment the 'dragon' hatched. These dragons and their riders fought the dreaded thread and a unique telepathic relationship formed between dragon and rider. Anne said she hoped to redress the balance because she felt dragons had previously had a 'bad press'. 'Dragonflight' is the first of the dragon books and chronicles the 'impressing' of Lessa with her Queen dragon and her romance with bronze dragon rider, F'lar.

Not all her readers realise that she was also very fond of horses and had her own stables at her home in Ireland. One of her few non Science Fiction novels is 'Ring Of Fear,' a thriller romance, set in the world of horse shows.

She had an amazing imagination, and created a variety of different and unique worlds.

She will be sorely missed by her many friends and fans. Rest in peace, Ann, may your journey 'between' be smooth and your stories enthral the angels.

NB Most if not all of Anne's books are available on Amazon and you can find out more about this wonderful writer at http://pernhome.com/aim/

'STARQUEST' 'CHILDREN OF THE MIST' (The sequel to Starquest) Dancing With Fate 'Freeread':'A BARGAIN WITH DEATH 'STARQUEST' 'CHILDREN OF THE MIST' (The sequel to Starquest) Dancing With Fate 'Freeread':'A BARGAIN WITH DEATH'

Also available on Kindle

I did it!

noreply@blogger.com (Hywela Lyn) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 23:43:00 +0000

My blogging this month has been haphazard to say the least and I apologise. My excuse is it's NaNoWriMo and I've been hard at it writing 50,000 plus words. I wasn't going to participate this year, since I already have two NaNo novels to edit - but my husband insisted I make it a 'hat trick' and cunningly placed a large bar of Toblerone on the top shelf of my bookcase well out of my reach, as an incentive. So I took an idea for a short story, dusted it off, added some more characters...

I'm glad to report that tonight I've devoured a large part of that chocolate bar and downloaded my 'winners' certificate.'

Congratulations to all the other winners, and to those who didn't quite make it to the finishing line, you're still a winner for simply attempting it. It's a huge adrenaline rush with highs and lows. I for one had serious doubts at times that I'd made the 25,000 mark, let alone the 50,000!

Normal service will now be resumed as soon as possible! :)

'STARQUEST' 'CHILDREN OF THE MIST' (The sequel to Starquest) Dancing With Fate 'Freeread':'A BARGAIN WITH DEATH

Also available on Kindle

Meet Grace Elliot - a treat for animal and romantic fiction lovers

noreply@blogger.com (Hywela Lyn) — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 09:00:00 +0000

I had the pleasure of meeting Grace Elliot at the Festival Of romance recently and I'm delighted to be able to welcome her as the special guest on my blog today.

Fasten your seatbelts, take your favourite drink from the replicator and settle back to learn more about this fascinating lady. To start with, here's her bio:

Grace Elliot leads a double life as a veterinarian by day and author of historical romance by night. Grace works in a companion animal practice near London and is housekeeping staff to five moggies, two teenage sons and a guinea pig. She turned to writing as an antidote to the stress of modern life and believes intelligent people have the greatest need to read romance!

Grace’s published work includes the acclaimed “A Dead Man’s Debt”, new release “Eulogy’s Secret” and a non-fiction book “Cat Pies” (feline historical trivia) - due out December 2011.

HL: Tell us a little more about yourself – you’re a veterinarian, and as you know I’m an animal lover as are many of my friends here and we’d love to know a little more about your work.

GE: Being a vet is both the best and worst, job in the world. The best because you get to work with animals - the first thing I do every working day is to check the kennel room, say hello to in patients and give those that want it a fuss or cuddle - it’s like having a never ending supply of pets! Strangely, the worst side isn’t what you might think - putting animals to sleep, because there is the comfort of knowing their suffering is at an end. For me the worst aspect is aggressive dogs.

So many owners fail to understand the need their pet has for discipline and treat dogs like toys. A bit like careless drivers, that’s fine until someone gets hurt because of it - as was the case when 70 kg Mastiff, treated like a cuddly toy by his owner, grabbed me by the throat. I’m only here today because of my quick reflexes that meant his jaws didn’t lock in place. Have that happen to you once and you're guaranteed to become quite preachy about responsible ownership!

HL: I couldn't agree more, as you say, a badly trained animal can be a danger to itself and those who try to handle it. but back to writing. When did you actually start writing?

GE: I started writing in 2002 after a school reunion. To my surprise, school friends who I hadn’t seen for twenty years, were eager to know if I still wrote. They remembered the stories I wrote for English homework being read out to a hushed class and were convinced I’d go on to be a multi-published author!! Being reminded of those stories was a real “Eureka” moment. The enjoyment of writing for pleasure, of creating new worlds and escaping to them, came back to me and after a 20 year gap I started writing again.

HL: What comes first: the plot or the characters?

GE: Characters - without a doubt!

And the key to establishing a character is to decide on the right name - just like naming a baby!

My latest book “Eulogy’s Secret” was inspired by the word ‘Eulogy’, which in turn sprang into my mind when I saw a poster on the London Underground for a memorial concert. I couldn’t shake the feeling that ‘Eulogy’ would make such a sad, enigmatic name, and that for anyone to call their child Eulogy there must be a heart rending story behind it - perhaps the death of the mother in childbirth, or worse….but as for what Eulogy’s secret is and why she was named thus, you have to read the book.

HL: I certainly agree about characters, and the importance of names.Tell us about Eulogy's Secret' and what you think readers will enjoy about it

GE: My second book, “Eulogy’s Secret”, is a story of greed, prejudice and a stolen identity. Again, characters and how they react in circumstances beyond their control, is key to my work. I aim to write the sort of page-turning book that I love to read and hope readers will find this to be true.

Eulogy’s Secret is a story of contrasts about a heroine who has lost everything and yet sees goodness everywhere, and a hero, who is wealthy but cynical and jaded. It is a story about truth, trust and love finding a way - the literary equivalent of a long soak in a warm bubble bath after a hard day at work.

HL: It sounds so intriguing - if someone were to play one of your characters in a movie, which character, and what actor would it be and why?

GE: This is such a good question! I have something akin to a photographic memory and write by closing my eyes and describing the action as it plays like a movie behind my eyelids. Being able to clearly see the hero and heroine in my mind’s eye is crucial….and so on reflection, I’m not going to answer this because I’m curious to see if anyone picks up on who the inspiration behind Eulogy Foster and Jack Huntley really are. Winks.

HL: Grace, I didn't realise you were such a tease! So what have you learned about writing since you were published that surprised you the most?

GE: Two things spring to mind.

Firstly, how anal some critics can be about minor punctuation errors. Don’t get me wrong, I can be pretty anal myself, but when it comes to a rollicking good read I don’t get too stressed about the odd misplaced comma or colon.

But this leads onto my second point which is that as a writer, you’re never as good as you want to be. Writing is a constant learning curve - you crack one aspect of the craft, only to discover you could do better elsewhere - lucky then that I believe in learning through my mistakes and moving on.

HL: This is so true, as writers, we are always learning. What’s you’re writing process? Has it changed since writing your first book?

GE: This year, for the first time I enrolled on NaNoWriMo, (National Novel Writing Month), which is a challenge to write 50,000 words in one month. I can honestly say my writing process had changed dramatically because of this. Previously, I wrote for a minimum of twenty minutes a day. If the muse didn’t visit during that time my conscience was clear and I would stop. But with NaNoWriMo I’ve learnt to stop procrastinating and write no matter what. The increase in my productivity has been astounding.

When November draws to an end I fully intend to keep up the habit of writing at least 1,667 words a day - who knows, I may even stick to it.

HL: Snap on the NaNo. I've done it twice, although I'm way behind this year, but it is a great motivator. Apart from this, what is your personal definition of success?

GE: My personal definition of success is more philosophical than materialistic - I just want to be content and bring happiness to those around me. Sounds sickly I know, but it happens to be true.

HL: What is your favourite source of inspiration?

GE: Inspiration comes from anywhere and everywhere. As I said earlier, “Eulogy’s Secret” sprang from a poster on the London Underground, whilst “A Dead Man’s Debt” came from a portrait of Emma Hart (she married Lord Hamilton and later became Admiral Nelson’s mistress.) Book two in the Huntley trilogy (working title, “Hope’s Betrayal”) was inspired by the coast of the Isle of Wight, whilst book three was inspired by a visit to the Hell Fire Caves in West Wycombe. Who knows where inspiration will strike next!

HL: That's so interesting, I love how a picture can spark off a train of thought that becomes a plot, and I've visited the Hell Fire Caves too, so I can see how that would be inspiring for an historical romance writer.

Well sadly, we're nearly at the end of the interview and I have one last question. (I can't resist.) If you were an animal, which one do you think you would be, and why? (I have a sneaking suspicion I know the answer to this one already.)

GE: Lyn, you are naughty - I’m chuckling now! And yes, you guessed it - I’d be a cat!

Cats have so got life sussed. What is that saying? - “A dog has a master but a cat has staff.”

That sums life up in the Elliot household. At this moment Widget is snuggled against my leg, Noni is roughing it on two faux fur rugs (folded into quarters and stacked on top of each other), Wallace and Pilchard are curled up on a cushion my bed, whilst Gromit is out hunting - but will be back later for a snack and to sleep with my eldest son.

That aside, my body metabolism is already geared to being a cat - sleeping 20 hours a day and waking for biscuits suits me perfectly!

HL: *Grin* Absolutely! Cats seem to have life perfectly sussed out! Thank you so much for a fascinating insight into your writing life, Grace, and as an animal lover it's been great to learn a little about your veterinary work. Before you go, let's find out a bit more about your latest book EULOGY'S SECRET.

Eulogy’s Secret - a story of greed prejudice and a stolen identity

In the four weeks since her guardians’ death, Eulogy Foster has lost everything. Penniless and alone she seeks the help of her estranged brother, Lord Lucien Devlin. But Devlin throws Eulogy out onto the streets and the mercy of a passing stranger, Jack Huntley.
As Eulogy seeks the truth behind her birth, she is drawn into the world of art and artists, where her morals are challenged and all is deception.

Jack Huntley: bitter, cynical and betrayed in love. He believes women are devious, scheming, untrustworthy creatures - and when he rescues a naïve Miss from being raped, his life is about to change forever. As his attraction to Eulogy grows, caught in a deadlock with both denying their true feelings, events take a sinister turn as someone seeks to silence Eulogy….forever

BUY LINKS

Smashwords.

Amazon US

Amazon UK.

If you would like to know more about Grace please visit her blog:

http://graceelliot-author.blogspot.com

or website:

www.wix.com/graceelliot/grace-elliot

'STARQUEST' 'CHILDREN OF THE MIST' (The sequel to Starquest) Dancing With Fate 'Freeread':'A BARGAIN WITH DEATH'STARQUEST' 'CHILDREN OF THE MIST' (The sequel to Starquest) Dancing With Fate 'Freeread':'A BARGAIN WITH DEATH'

Also available on Kindle

Author Roast and Toast today

noreply@blogger.com (Hywela Lyn) — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 18:34:00 +0000

'We're barbequing -er - roasting Brinda Berry over at the Author Roast and Toast today.. Come and join us in celebrating her Y A book 'The Waiting Booth' an leave a comment for your chance to win an E-copy.

http://authorroastandtoast.blogspot.com/

'STARQUEST' 'CHILDREN OF THE MIST' (The sequel to Starquest) Dancing With Fate 'Freeread':'A BARGAIN WITH DEATH 'STARQUEST' 'CHILDREN OF THE MIST' (The sequel to Starquest) Dancing With Fate 'Freeread':'A BARGAIN WITH DEATH'

Also available on Kindle

noreply@blogger.com (Hywela Lyn) — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 09:24:00 +0000

Had to share this lovely, review!

"Sometimes little gems come along, and this little novella is one of those gems one feels proud to own!

When Greek myth blends with Welsh legend more than mere magic causes a heart to flutter, and the title "Dancing with Fate" is a teaser in itself..."

Thank you so much Fracine!
You can read the rest of the review at Francine Howarth's Blog here:

Francine Howarth - Romancing the Blog

or at her lovely historical romance blog

HERE

Available at Smashwords

Kindle UK

and in Paperback at Amazon

(UK readers can purchase signed paperback editions

by dropping me an email at Lyn@hywelalyn.co.uk Lyn@hywelalyn.co.uk)

Also available on Kindle

Denise Tomkin's Book Tour for 'Legacy' - 'The Allure of the Bad Boy

noreply@blogger.com (Hywela Lyn) — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 09:00:00 +0000

A warm welcome to Denise Tomkins who is stopping by today at what is nearly her last spot on her blog tour. First of all, Denise, I really enjoyed your book, 'Legacy', especially your yummy dragon-shifter hero Bahlin!

So before we talk more about Legacy, let's hear your views on the 'bad boy' hero we love to - er - well, love!

Every romance seems to have one. Every urban fantasy seems to center around one. Every Regency romance creates one.

The Bad Boy

The one man who seems untamable. The one man every woman wants but who has successfully defied all efforts to bring him to home and hearth.

There are different facets of the Bad Boy—some mildly wicked but still opposed to commitment, and others wholly developed and full of hellfire, determined to never settle down.

What is it about the bad boy that seems to draw us in, that makes writers want to play with him on the page and encourages readers to develop a character crush? I’m not a psychologist but, as both an author and a reader, I have a few suppositions.

(Danger alert: writer philosophizing!)

First, there is a deeply drawn need for us to tame our man. To take that which is wild and uncontrollable and overwhelm him so with love that he cannot help but fall victim to our charms.

Second, and this is focused at authors, he’s a great deal of fun to play around with. He’s the character who refuses to conform to our standards of etiquette and civility. The Bad Boy is the character who pushes us to ratchet up the tension and to find ways to soften his heart toward the central focus of the book without compromising who he is. He challenges us.

Third, the man who challenges us (both as readers and writers), who forces us to think outside the box in handling him, ignites in us a sense of conquest. We look at the man, fictional or real, who embodies the traits we covet—those of the passionate, slightly angry lone wolf—and we want to heal him. We want to take all the baggage he comes with and sort through it, ultimately proving the final point, which is—

Fourth, we want to believe love conquers all…even him. We need to believe that, no matter what happens, his loyalty is undivided. And even beyond that, we cling to the idea that love is the only way he’ll find redemption in the harsh light of life, and it gives us hope.

The Bad Boy is the ultimate prize in many a story. He is taken down by a heroine, dismantled brick by brick. He is redeemed and proven worthy of our heroine’s love and affection by, in turn, offering his own version of the same. By this I mean he’s often retained many of the same characteristics that set him apart as a Bad Boy but he’s softened toward the one woman who was strong enough, determined enough, and wily enough to get past his defenses.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to write. I have a series of Bad Boys waiting their turn on the page.

Thank you so much, Denise, I think I'll just like down in a darkened room for a bit and muse about bad boys and how to tame them!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Denise Tompkins lives in the heart of the South where the neighbors still know your name, all food forms are considered fry-able and bugs die only to be reincarnated in aggressive, blood-craving triplicate. Thrilled to finally live somewhere that can boast 3 ½ seasons (winter's only noticeable because the trees are naked), her favorite season is definitely fall. It's the time of year when the gardens are just about to pass into winter's brief silence, and the leaves are out to prove that nature is the most brilliant artist of all.

A life-long voracious reader, Denise has three favorite authors. Why three? Because favorite authors are like chips: a person can't have just one. Her little house was so overrun with books last year that her darling husband bought her an e-reader out of self-preservation. He was (legitimately) afraid she might begin throwing out pots and pans to make room for more books, and he didn't want to starve.

Along with reading, Denise loves travel, is obsessed with the British Isles, practices photography, enjoys cooking and looks forward to Christmas as an excuse to bake.

Her debut novel, Legacy, is the first book in The Niteclif Evolutions and will be available in both e-book and print from Samhain Publishing.

You can find out more about Denise by following her on

Author Website
Author Blog
Twitter
Goodreads
Facebook Page

Her debut novel, Legacy, is the first book in The Niteclif Evolutions and is available in both e-book and print from Samhain Publishing.

LEGACY The Niteclif Evolutions

When Fate makes you her bitch, accept it and adapt. Or die.

Looking back on the wish she made on Midsummer’s Eve, Maddy Niteclif should have been more specific. She only wanted to escape the shadowy nightmares that plagued her nights, not to be thrust into a completely altered reality.

If a strangely familiar, sexy dragon-shifter named Bahlin, who causes a never-to-be-mentioned-again fainting spell, isn’t enough to make her question her sanity, his insistence she’s the Niteclif ought to do the job. Prophesied super-sleuth of the supernatural world—a world that desperately needs her help—isn’t a job she’s remotely qualified for no matter what her family tree says.

Catapulted into a very different London ruled by dark mythology, mystery and murder, Maddy makes a few startling discoveries. Paranormal creatures exist. Getting shot really sucks. And her body responds remarkably well to dragon magic—in more ways than simple wound healing.

But in this kill-or-be-killed world, reality bites. And Maddy must choose to go back to what she knows…or stay and fight for the man she knows she can’t live without.

Warning: This book contains a shape-shifting dragon with a Scottish accent, modern and archaic weapons, global inter-species politics that make democracy seem mild, some very steamy sex underground, a severed head, murder, and…oh yeah…a woman caught in the middle of it all.

Legacy: The Niteclif Evolutions, Book 1
Author: Denise Tompkins
Genre: Fiction – Urban Fantasy/Paranormal Romance
Published by: Samhain Publishing, Ltd. (October 18, 2011)
Age Recommendation: 18+ For Mature Content & Explicit Sexuality
Format: eBook
ASIN: B005IZUXZE

Buy the eBOOK at:

Amazon.com

Amazon.co.uk

Barnes & Noble

Samhain Publishing, Ltd

All Romance

My Thoughts
I really enjoyed this book even though I found the heroine Maddie a little brash and irritating at times, but I did warm to her and could understand why she was the way she was, and sympathise with her in her grief for the loss of her parents.. There are a wide variety and diversity of characters and shifters introduced in fairly quick succession and it's interesting trying to work out who are the 'bad' guys and gals, and who are actually on Maddie's side, and there is a revelation concerning a well known fictional character which I found very original. The hero, Bahlin, is everything a hero should be, even his dragon form is compelling and attractive! I loved the way he truly did love Maddie, and how he cares for her and puts up with her occasional tantrums and moments of doubt.

It was slightly tricky keeping up with all the different supernatural beings and I had to be careful not to read too quickly and miss something - this is a real page turner! There is plenty of action, suspense and sizzling romance, as well as some surprises. I have to admit the climax really had me shocked and I really didn't want the novel to end and was surprised when it did! I had to do a double take to make sure I hadn't missed somehow skipped a couple of pages on my e-reader! What a way to keep one in suspense and make one eager to read the next book - can't wait!

Denise's Blog Tour organised by:

http://nurtureyourbooks.com/vbtblog/?p=2242

This is the penultimate stop in her tour, but why not check out her previous stops as well as tomorrow's, November 15th – Lisa Ma @ A Casual Reader’s Blog

October 18th – Jaidis S. @ Juniper Grove

October 19th – Florence P. @ Romance Me

October 19th – Kristen T. @ Seeing Night Book Reviews

October 20th – Tammy G. @ News and Reviews from the Heart of the Dragons Den

October 21st – Paula P. @ The Phantom Paragrapher

October 24th – Laurie J. @ Laurie’s Thoughts and Reviews

October 25th – Sheila H. @ The Dark Circle

October 26th – S.J.W. @ Fantasy Cookie

October 26th – Jasmyn No. @ Jasmyn’s Reviews

October 27th – Lea. R. @ Journey Reader

October 28th – Aparajita B. @ Le’ Grande Codex

October 31st – Beverly G. @ Everyone Loves A SiNner

November 1st – Aubrie Di. @ Flutey Words

November 2nd – Lindsay H @ Everyday Is An Adventure

November 3rd – Krystal L. @ Live To Read

November 4th – Shandy S. @ Mama Knows Books

November 7th – Wendy Mi. @ Rage, Sex and Teddy Bears

November 9th – Lena Sl. @ Lena Sledge’s Blog…Books, Reviews and Interviews

November 10th – Krishna A. @ Journey with Books

November 11th – Farrah K. @ The Book Faery Reviews

Also available on Kindle

Gerald G Griffin continues his Blog Tour - 'Of Good and Evil'

noreply@blogger.com (Hywela Lyn) — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 11:00:00 +0000

I am pleased to welcome Gerald G Griffin to my blog today, as part of his Blog Tour with NURTURE:

"People say you should write about what you know. Do you have any personal experiences that helped you while writing this book?"

I did with my first novel, The Corruptors, because a majority of the events in that book took place at and around Michigan State University during the time I was there working on my PH.D., and my personal experiences then helped me in writing the book, as did my personal experiences, to some extent, in writing my subsequent novels, The Death Disciple and The Last Coming.

I feel writing about what you know is essential to your first book and perhaps to your second and even third, but eventually a writer has to go beyond "what he knows" firsthand from personal experience (especially with novels) if he's to continue his writing. That is the case with Of Good And Evil.

For the most part then, except for what sort of creeps in subconsciously, personal experiences did not help me that much while writing OfGood And Evil. That is not to say that there were no personal experience drawn on in writing the novel. In fact, a spark initiating the novel came from a memory of personal (professional, really) experience. While I was still in private psychological practice in Atlanta, Georgia, I treated a few veterans in therapy who were still suffering from unresolved psyche/emotional trauma stemming from combat trauma. Years later, when I first began writing Of Good And Evil, my professional experiences with these veterans helped to formulate the book's hero, Ron Sheffield, leading to aspects of the novel's plot.

Aside from that, it was the experiences of others --- which I'm not at liberty to divulge, and my own research, knowledge and the imagination of my creative process that proved to be helpful in writing the book. This time it was not so much "what I knew" from personal experiences but "what I knew of" from other sources.

Author Bio: Gerald G. Griffin was born in Flint, Michigan. He received his MA and Ph.D. in psychology from Michigan State University. Set up private practice in Atlanta, Georgia as a Consulting Psychologist, a practice of 18 years doing psychotherapy, counseling, diagnostics and executive consultation. Moved to Gainesville, Georgia to enter writing full-time, at first doing ghost-writing and screenplays before turning back to novels. At present, putting the final touches to A Time of Reckoning, the sequel to Of Good or Evil.

Author’s Website: http://www.authorgeraldgriffin.com

Author’s Blog: http://www.geraldggriffin.blogspot.com

Author’s Twitter Account: http://www.twitter.com/#!/GeraldGGriffin

Synopsis: A timely, quick-paced, action-packed story with vivid, vibrant characters and international locales, and villains both fictional and ripped from international headlines.

Ron Sheffield, a gifted but tormented Green Beret, plagued by suicidal guilt because of his “special” abilities, is discharged from the army for going “crazy.” Immediately, he is brutally beaten and shot by the Mafia, and is hospitalized near death. His life is dramatically saved by Amber Ash, who also possesses “special” abilities; and from there the two are propelled against mobsters, terrorists, and a government cell out to kill them over Iraqi documents Ron possesses from his army service. Ron becomes a Mafia hit man, targeting fallen mobsters. This brings Ron and Amber into contact with the powerful and humane gifted secret society, Eros; this contact eventually actualizing Ron’s mental gifts to a point beyond his imagination. Ron is confronted with the imminent nuclear obliteration of a major American city by a suicidal terrorist cell that only he can stop. But will he be able to do it in time? Of Good and Evil is a spiritual fight against tyranny.

'STARQUEST' 'CHILDREN OF THE MIST' (The sequel to Starquest) Dancing With Fate 'Freeread':'A BARGAIN WITH DEATH'

Also available on Kindle

Sky Purington's new release: The Victorian Lure

noreply@blogger.com (Hywela Lyn) — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 00:40:00 +0000

One of the first friends I made when I became published in the US, was the lovely Sky Purington. We've appeared on each other's blogs quite a lot and read each other's books. We were also 'muse sisters' for the Wild Rose Press's Greek Muse Anthology 'Song Of The Muses'. (See my last post) Today Sky has published her wonderful creepy vamp story, The Victorian Lure, which is a wonderful, romantic twist on the current vogue for vampire stories, with I think, a real traditional 'Gothic' feel although the book is bang up todate with modern technology - anyway, why not read the blurb and an excerpt for yourself? (Oh and did I say the book stars a very handsome Scot?)

Is it true love or is the magnetic pull just another part of the Victorian's lure?

Dakota Allerton depends on no one but herself, but then she's never needed a ghost hunter. When her dream home becomes a house of horrors that is holding her hostage, her only hope is a Scotsman who investigates the paranormal.

The supernatural is nothing Leathan Stewart can't handle. However, trapped in Dakota's cursed Victorian home, he finds himself falling back in time. Only those who persevere can survive the dark domination.

Fear has a way of drawing two people together but so does the need to be loved. Dakota and Leathan must fight against unknown enemies, discover the secrets of Calum's Curse and defeat a vampire bent on finishing the legacy it began.

Read an excerpt...

You can purchase this, and Sky's other books at:

Amazon Kindle
Smashwords

Barnes & Noble Nook

THE VICTORIAN LURE ia released from the Wild Rose Press, go on - treat yourself today!

Wishing you many, many sales, Sky dear friend.

'STARQUEST' 'CHILDREN OF THE MIST' (The sequel to Starquest) Dancing With Fate 'Freeread':'A BARGAIN WITH DEATH'

Also available on Kindle

noreply@blogger.com (Hywela Lyn) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 21:22:00 +0000

Today and over the weekend , I'm over at my good friend Sky Purington's blog, together with the hero and heroine of 'Dancing With Fate', Terpsichore and Myrddin. http://skypuringtonwrites.blogspot.com/ If you get a moment please pop over and say 'hello'. I'm giving a download of my book to two randomly drawn commentors. Thanks,

'STARQUEST' 'CHILDREN OF THE MIST' (The sequel to Starquest) Dancing With Fate 'Freeread':'A BARGAIN WITH DEATH'

Also available on Kindle