Words Escape Me

My My, It Sure Has Been A While

noreply@blogger.com (Kriston Johnson) — Mon, 18 Jul 2016 22:58:00 +0000

Thank you for stopping by Words Escape Me. As you can see posts are far and few between these days. Unfortunately, I am not here to say that I will be blogging on a more regular bases, but more to let you know that after a year long hiatus I am getting back in the writer’s seat. This last year has been very hectic, both personally and professionally, and yet the characters in my head have grown impatient have decided they are not going to rest until I tell their stories.

As far as the life of this blog…I do not plan on updating it beyond this. My plans are to graduate to more of an “official” website, and leaving this blog as some what of a diary of the beginning of my writing career. I love looking back to my early posts reading everything through the eyes of a brand new writer/blogger.

So for now, if you want to keep in touch Facebook is the best place. Thank you for stopping by and happy writing!

Reading Update...The Iron Warrior and The Six of Crows

noreply@blogger.com (Kriston Johnson) — Sat, 12 Dec 2015 04:36:00 +0000

Tis the season to be completely swamped. But I've still managed to keep up with my reading and I thought I'd write a quick post and share a couple of thoughts.

First up~ The Iron Warrior by Julie Kagawa.

I LOVE the Iron Fey series. Megan, Puck, and Ash are some of my all time favorite characters. (Team Ash) So of course I had to follow along into the next series, but I have to admit I did't love it. The first two books I'd give a "strong like", and the last book, well...I barely finished. In fact I wanted to DNF it. By the time I hit 75% I mostly scanned through and read the last chapter. I just felt the story dragged and took to long to get to the point.

Next up~ The Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo

The follow up to the Shadow and Bone series. Once again, I did not love it as much as the first trilogy, but I liked it enough to continue with the series. The characters were unique, flawed but likable, and the writing itself is absolutely to die for. Tension and conflict in every scene.

Now I'm reading The Fifth Wave, and have Winter on my Christmas list.

Got to go, thanks for stopping by and happy reading!

And Introducing...Author Ruth Silver

noreply@blogger.com (Kriston Johnson) — Sun, 29 Nov 2015 20:25:00 +0000

This week I am happy to feature, and interview author Ruth Silver. Ruth has a variety of books in multiple genres, more than I even kew about! So please, take a look around, I think you will find something you'll like!

Hello Ruth! Thank you for stopping by Words Escape Me and chatting with us today. I’m looking forward to sharing you’re works with the readers here. Lets jump right in!

While scrolling through the list of your published books I learned something new about you. That not only do you write YA Dystopian and Fantasy books, but that you also write Adult Romance under the names Allison West, and Ravyn Rayne. You have such a vast list of books to offer.

~Do you have one genre that you enjoy writing over the others?

I love all sorts of genres but my favorite is probably dystopian. I’ve written dystopian in both the YA and adult romance genres.

~What books have influenced your life?

I absolutely loved John Green’s The Fault in Our Stars. It’s not just the emotion and story but the way he writes, very poetic.

~What is your favorite part about living in Chicago?

I live in the suburbs of Chicago, but I love the Midwest. The people are far friendlier than some of the other cities I’ve lived in.

~Can you tell us what you are currently working on?

Sure! I’m working on a steamy adult romance that is set in the Victorian era. It’s about a governess with a bit of a sticky hand that finds herself constantly in trouble.

~What are you currently reading?

I’m reading a few books at the moment. Judging His Little Girl by Breanna Hayse and Outlander by Diana Gabaldon.

~Do you have any advice for the aspiring writers out there?

Write a lot. Then write some more. The only way to improve is to keep writing.

Allison West & Ravyn Rayne Links

Romance Blog – http://spankingauthor.com

Facebook – http://facebook.com/allisonwestauthor

Facebook – http://facebook.com/ravynraynereads

Twitter – http://twitter.com/blushingravyn

Twitter – http://twitter.com/blushingallison

Ruth Silver Links

YA Blog – http://writeawaybliss.com

Facebook – http://facebook.com/writeawaybliss

Twitter – http://twitter.com/writeawaybliss

Local Book Signing!

noreply@blogger.com (Kriston Johnson) — Sun, 15 Nov 2015 19:20:00 +0000

On Saturday, November 21st, at 2:00 pm, I will be reading and signing at Vintage Books. If you live in the Vancouver/Portland area I'd love to see you. I will be reading from Awakened and Ensnared. Victoria will be reading from her middle grade novel The Tale of Willaby Creek and a children's Christmas story The Scandinavian Santa. For more on Victoria's book you can visit
http://www.victorialindstrom.com .

How To Turn On Text To Speech On Kindle Fire

noreply@blogger.com (Kriston Johnson) — Tue, 27 Oct 2015 02:55:00 +0000

Hello folks. This one is for the writers.

I wanted to share a link to Tattered Page Ink (my book design site) that seems the getting a lot of hits. It's an article about finding typos in your writing, and a short video on how to turn on the text to speech feature on the Kindle Fire. Incase you were ever wondering how to that...click here. I hope you find it useful.

Happy writing!

What the Heck is Faerieworlds?

noreply@blogger.com (Kriston Johnson) — Wed, 21 Oct 2015 04:27:00 +0000

One thing I do every year, without question, is attend the absolutely coolest festival on the entire planet...Faerieworlds. When I talk about my expeirences at Faerieworlds everyone always asks what it is about.

Well first of all, it's a real life faerie realm here on earth. It's about community, making new friends, and listening to great music. I could go on and on, but you know as they say, a picture is worth a thousand words, or in this case, a video.

Here is a link to a post I wrote about my first Faerieworlds where I got to meet Melissa Marr! It was quite entertaining to say the least.

OMG! I Can Hardly Stand the Wait....A Drop of Night by Stefan Backmann

noreply@blogger.com (Kriston Johnson) — Wed, 30 Sep 2015 17:53:00 +0000

This post was inspired by an article I read on Itching for Books. Thank you, Shane. I'm so excited I want to share it too! Yes I know the cover was released in June, but it's new to me, so there.

I am huge fan of Stefan Bachmann. I love his writing style, snarky tweets, The Peculiars, and his contributions to The Cabinet of Curiosities. A couple of years ago I had the pleasure of meeting him at Wordstock in Portland Oregon. While there he was promoting the upcoming The Cabinet of Curiosities, and his most recent release, The Whatnot. During his Q & A session he briefly talked about a YA novel that he was writing. Being that YA is my favorite genre, my interest was piqued. Without further ado, I share with you, A Drop of Night. Available March of 2016.

Add to Goodreads

Five gifted teenagers are selected out of hundreds of other candidates to fly to France and help with the excavation of a vast, underground palace buried a hundred feet below the suburbs of Paris. Built in the 1780's to hide an aristocratic family and a mad duke during the French Revolution, the palace was sealed after the aristocrats fled there. No one has set foot in it for over two centuries.

Now, in the present day, the teenagers enter with cutting-edge technology, state-of-the-art security, scientists and chaperones. And then a brutal accident occurs. No way out. Caught in the dark.

They will have to fight to survive. But are they really alone in the depths?

Doesn't it sound wonderful. I would pre-order it, but I can't decide if I want it on my Kindle, or hardback. Decisions, decisions. Here is a link to Stefan's blog where he revealed the cover for the first time, and he talks about how he hated the title! (Only at first, though. It is quite common for the publisher to choose book titles, despite what the author wants. Who knew? Now all of you do.)

From left, my friend, author Victoria Lindstrom, Claire Legrand, Stefan Bachmann, and Emma Trevayne (and a random lady who had no idea she photo bombed this awesome pic)

My personalized copy of The Whatnot

Introducing...Tattered Page Ink Interior Book Design and Formatting

noreply@blogger.com (Kriston Johnson) — Mon, 28 Sep 2015 20:14:00 +0000

For the last year I've been working on two things, publishing Ensnared, and working as a book designer. I've been keeping the book design thing on the down low until I was established and had a permanent online presence.

Tattered Page Ink has its own blog where I will talk about the publishing world, as well as offer helpful information for self published writers to help bring their future best sellers to life. Here are a couple examples of my most recent work. I'm also offering a giveaway for a free design.

by yours truly

The Tale of Willaby Creek by Victoria Lindstrom

It's Finally Live

noreply@blogger.com (Kriston Johnson) — Tue, 08 Sep 2015 02:32:00 +0000

Finally! After two long years I present to you Ensnared. It has been a long time coming. I'm so excited that I can finally share Jade's fate with the world. (Buy links in the side bar.)

Facing monstrous demons, a ravenous dragon, and a malicious faerie queen are the least of Jade’s worries.

It has been a fortnight since Jade confronted Draven, and he has emerged from the battle more terrifying than ever. Armed with a new plan and fueled with unrelenting determination, Draven casts a dark spell and calls forth new players that no one ever expected, bringing him one step closer to opening the portal to The Fathom.

Jade vows to bring an end to the madness she feels responsible for and works to harness her elemental power, but unforeseen consequences arise. Her power is growing beyond what she can control, and it’s on the verge of destroying her from within.

Was learning to use her magical ability the beginning…or the beginning of the end?

New To My Shelf...The Witch Hunter

noreply@blogger.com (Kriston Johnson) — Sat, 29 Aug 2015 23:41:00 +0000

Back in the olden days my favorite thing to do was visit my favorite real life book store, Borders. It was a time before Amazon and book bloggers ruled the kingdom and publishers were forced to win me over with nothing more than a snazzy cover and catchy summary. It was always a surprise to see what I could find and I loved scouring the shelves and hunting for treasure.

Now I probably shouldn't admit this, but some time back I quit following book blogs and stopped reading reviews on Amazon. I wanted to get back to what I loved while I still have an actual brick-and-mortar store to frequent. The newest and most popular books still pop up in my Twitter feed, but I go out of my way not the read about them, unless a friend makes a point to recommend it.

So after spending a half hour walking up and down the YA aisle in Barnes & Noble, this is what I decided to give a try. The Witch Hunter, by Virginia Boecker. I've never heard of the book or the author, but I liked what I read on the flap copy and thought I would give it a try.

The Witch Hunter~

Your greatest enemy isn't what you fight, but what you fear.

Elizabeth Grey is one of the king's best witch hunters, devoted to rooting out witchcraft and doling out justice. But when she's accused of being a witch herself, Elizabeth is arrested and sentenced to burn at the stake.

Salvation comes from a man she thought was her enemy. Nicholas Perevil, the most powerful and dangerous wizard in the kingdom, offers her a deal: he will save her from execution if she can break the deadly curse that's been laid upon him.

But Nicholas and his followers know nothing of Elizabeth's witch hunting past--if they find out, the stake will be the least of her worries. And as she's thrust into the magical world of witches, ghosts, pirates, and one all-too-handsome healer, Elizabeth is forced to redefine her ideas of right and wrong, of friends and enemies, and of love and hate.

Virginia Boecker weaves a riveting tale of magic, betrayal, and sacrifice in this unforgettable fantasy debut.

We're Almost There!

noreply@blogger.com (Kriston Johnson) — Tue, 11 Aug 2015 02:18:00 +0000

A quick update on Ensnared. All I need to do is approve the proof and we're in business! I estimate that Ensnared will be available for sale in about one week!

For those of you with the Kindle subscription service, Awakened will be free until August 21st. I am pulling it from the program so that it will again be available on all platforms. So if you've been waiting to download, you better hurry!

NW Book Festival and New Books To My Shelf

noreply@blogger.com (Kriston Johnson) — Tue, 28 Jul 2015 05:17:00 +0000

Book Modeling. It's totally a thing.

Last Saturday I attended the 7th annual NW Book Festival in downtown Portland. As luck would have it, it was the first weekend in twelve weeks that Portland had seen rain. But being that I've lived the Pacific Northwest my entire life, doing things in the rain is something I'm quite used to. Thanks to fellow writer and friend, Victoria Lindstrom, we had a canopy with walls to protect us. Thanks again, Vic!

I met loads of new people and I look forward to attending next year.

Oh look, there's Blue. How did he get in there?

I did not leave empty handed, and both of these books were written by authors local to me! I got to meet Margaret at the festival and I came home with this gem. Dulci's Legacy is a YA mystery and I cannot wait to dive in it. And of course I can never go downtown without visiting Powell's City of Books. There I walked away with The Daughter of Smoke and Bone. It's been on my TBR shelf for years and I found for only $5.00. What a deal.

Two Weeks and Counting!!

noreply@blogger.com (Kriston Johnson) — Mon, 22 Jun 2015 04:00:00 +0000

In exactly 14 days Ensnared will be in the hands of my most awesome editor for its final proofread. If everything goes according plan, which I am confident it will, Ensnared should available by the end of July!

I'll keep you posted!

And Introducing...The Tale of Willaby Creek Release Event

noreply@blogger.com (Kriston Johnson) — Wed, 10 Jun 2015 04:52:00 +0000

Welcome to the release event for The Tale of Willaby Creek by Victoria Lindstrom! This is a middle grade adventure fantasy that has just released!

About the Book:

A magical tale of amazing sacrifice...

When a violent windstorm strikes an enchanted rain forest many of the woodland creatures of Willaby Creek are stranded, injured, or lost forever to the frenzied force of the tempest. Basil, a black bear full of doubt and fear, becomes the unlikely leader to head the woodland creatures' rescue. He is joined by Daphne, a spunky blue dryad; Oliver, a wise horned owl; Elbert, a noble elk; and a host of other creatures that inhabit the enchanted rain forest.

Dangerous twists and turns in this animal adventure fantasy cause Basil to discover a courage, and a conviction, he never knew he had. The answers to the ancient mysteries in this magical tale emerge in an extraordinary finale under the tall timbers of the hidden hinterland.

Add to your Goodreads shelf

Buy from Amazon Hardcover | Amazon Kindle | Nook

A Note From the Author:

For seven years my husband and I owned a cabin on the shore of Lake Quinault, near Willaby Creek. We spent many weekends enjoying the beauty and tranquility of the Olympic National Forest. While there, we saw: Black bears, Roosevelt elk, eagles, herons, river otter, raccoons, one bobcat, and a host of other little critters.
In December 2006 the Hanukkah Eve Windstorm hit the Pacific Northwest causing severe damage to parts of the Olympic National Forest. One afternoon following the windstorm I wondered: What happened to all the animals? After that, a seed of the story that was to become The Tale of Willaby Creek tumbled into my mind.

As writers, we are told to write what we know; the setting for The Tale of Willaby Creek is definitely a familiar place to me!

Willaby Creek Falls

-----------------------------------------------------------------

About the Author:

VICTORIA LINDSTROM is a full-time writer, a voracious reader, and the author of the children's picture book, The Scandinavian Santa. She loves to wander through the woods, capture the beauty of Nature in photographs, and visit museums and fine art galleries. She and her husband, Michael, live near the shore of the Columbia River in the Pacific Northwest. You may visit Victoria at: www.victorialindstrom.com

Facebook | Twitter @AuthorLindstrom | Goodreads | Pinterest

Giveaway:
One $50 Amazon gift card (INT), One hardcover copy of The Tale of Willaby Creek (US) and an ebook of The Tale of Willaby Creek (INT) as well as 3 bookmarks (US)
Ends 7/13

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This event was organized by CBB Book Promotions.

My Thoughts... The Young Elites by Marie Lu

noreply@blogger.com (Kriston Johnson) — Fri, 05 Jun 2015 23:39:00 +0000

The Young Elites
By Marie Lu

My thoughts~

I have mixed feelings about this book. I will start of with the things that I liked.

I loved the writing style. Marie Lu writes very believable settings and her characters move around very naturally. Everything was so clearly written I felt like I was watching a movie. The tone and feel of the book is on the edgy side which in return enhanced the vivid imagery.

This doesn't happen very often, but what I liked most about this book was the secondary characters. They are a wild bunch, but they care about each other and each individual contributes to the story in a unique fashion.

Now for what I did not really care for. The main character. I just didn't connect with her and I didn't like her that much. In fact, my feelings toward Adelina actually made me quit caring about the story.

But in the end I enjoyed the writing so much I am going to give Legend a try.

Summary~

I am tired of being used, hurt, and cast aside.

Adelina Amouteru is a survivor of the blood fever. A decade ago, the deadly illness swept through her nation. Most of the infected perished, while many of the children who survived were left with strange markings. Adelina’s black hair turned silver, her lashes went pale, and now she has only a jagged scar where her left eye once was. Her cruel father believes she is a malfetto, an abomination, ruining their family’s good name and standing in the way of their fortune. But some of the fever’s survivors are rumored to possess more than just scars—they are believed to have mysterious and powerful gifts, and though their identities remain secret, they have come to be called the Young Elites.

Teren Santoro works for the king. As Leader of the Inquisition Axis, it is his job to seek out the Young Elites, to destroy them before they destroy the nation. He believes the Young Elites to be dangerous and vengeful, but it’s Teren who may possess the darkest secret of all.

Enzo Valenciano is a member of the Dagger Society. This secret sect of Young Elites seeks out others like them before the Inquisition Axis can. But when the Daggers find Adelina, they discover someone with powers like they’ve never seen.

Adelina wants to believe Enzo is on her side, and that Teren is the true enemy. But the lives of these three will collide in unexpected ways, as each fights a very different and personal battle. But of one thing they are all certain: Adelina has abilities that shouldn’t belong in this world. A vengeful blackness in her heart. And a desire to destroy all who dare to cross her.

It is my turn to use. My turn to hurt.

It's Finally Here! Ensnared Cover Reveal and Giftcard Giveaway!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Kriston Johnson) — Mon, 18 May 2015 07:00:00 +0000

Here she is in all her glory! The cover for Ensnared, book two in the Legends of Elyndia. As of now the Legends of Elyndia will consist of five stories, but this book wraps up Jade's tale. Now don't fret, we get to meet the characters of the next three installments in Ensnared. Coming this August.

About the Book:

Facing monstrous demons, a ravenous dragon, and a malicious faerie queen are the least of Jade’s worries.

It has been a fortnight since Jade confronted Draven, and he has emerged from the battle more terrifying than ever. Armed with a new plan and fueled with unrelenting determination, Draven casts a dark spell and calls forth new players that no one ever expected, bringing him one step closer to opening the portal to The Fathom.

Back at the Citadel, the people are divided and succumbing to the dark magic that threatens to encompass the entire realm. To unravel a tangled web of hidden truths, Jade plays a dangerous game of her own and works in secret to uncover something the Council is refusing to share. But the more she learns, the more she begins to question if she is doing the right thing.

Jade vows to bring an end to the madness she feels responsible for and works to harness her elemental power, but unforeseen consequences arise. Her power is growing beyond what she can control, and it’s on the verge of destroying her from within.

Was learning to use her magical ability the beginning…or the beginning of the end?

Add to Goodreads

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This event was organized by CBB Book Promotions.

Cover by Regina Wamba at Mae I Design

Once Chance Night Book Blitz...by Eliza Boyd

noreply@blogger.com (Kriston Johnson) — Fri, 15 May 2015 07:00:00 +0000

Once Chance Night by Eliza Boyd

Series: Make a Change #1

Genre: New Adult Contemporary

Pages: 188

Published: May 15, 2015 by Patchwork Press

Book Description:

On the surface, Chelsea Greer has it all: A loving husband. A nice house. A good job.
In reality, she works hard to maintain the illusion that is her life. She's also missing the most important thing:
Love.
One night could change her life. One night could give her the strength to rediscover what's important. In one night, she could find love when she most needs it and least expects it.
All Chelsea has to do is follow her heart after One Chance Night.

Eliza Boyd's Once Chance Night is out today! This is one New Adult romance that you will not want to miss and will make for a great summer read. The BLOG TOUR is currently taking sign-ups; it will run from June 15th to June 26th and Eliza would love for you to participate!

Purchase Links:

Amazon | B&N | Kobo | Apple | Scribd

Amazon UK | Amazon Canada

About Eliza Boyd:
Eliza Boyd is a contemporary women’s fiction and romance author. Also an avid reader, she writes novels, short stories, poetry, and whatever else strikes her fancy. Born and raised in Northern Illinois, she now lives in sunny Arizona with her husband and her plethora of animals. When she’s not reading, writing, or working, she can be found walking around her neighborhood (for exercise, not for stalking), taking photos of her pets, or catching up on her favorite shows. Catching up really means binge-watching.

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

Instagram | Pinterest | Blog | Newsletter

This Release Day Blitz was organized by Patchwork Press.

It's Almost Time To Share My Cover...Wanna Help?

noreply@blogger.com (Kriston Johnson) — Tue, 12 May 2015 03:24:00 +0000

I know it has been a very long time since I've given an update for book two in the Legend's of Elydia series. Now there is finally an end it sight! As we speak, Ensnared is in the trusted hands of my editor, bringing us one step closer to the August release.

Next Monday is the cover reveal for Ensnared. If you would like to be a part of it you can sign up at CBB Book Promotions. As a host you will be able to offer your readers the chance to enter a Rafflecopter for a $25 Amazon gift card, and you will be entered into a separate host only drawing for a $10 gift card.

My cover was created by the ever most talented Regina Wamba at Mae I Design. I have to admit, the cover is pretty awesome. I wish I could take credit for it. But I gave Regina 100% artistic control and she knocked it out of the park.

Are you tempted yet? Please read the summary below.

Facing monstrous demons, a ravenous dragon, and a malicious faerie queen are the least of Jade’s worries.

Was learning to use her magical ability the beginning…or the beginning of the end?

Cover Reveal...The Tale of Willaby Creek, by Victoria Lindstrom

noreply@blogger.com (Kriston Johnson) — Mon, 27 Apr 2015 07:00:00 +0000

I'm excited to share the cover reveal of The Tale of Willaby Creek by Victoria Lindstrom! This is a middle grade adventure fantasy that releases in June 2015. I was a beta reader for this delightful tale and it would be the perfect book to bring along on any summer camping trip or a visit to a national park. Make sure to stop by the giveaway below.

About the Book:

-----------------------------------------------------------------

About the Author:

VICTORIA LINDSTROM is a full-time writer, a voracious reader, and the author of the children's picture book, The Scandinavian Santa. She loves to wander through the woods, capture the beauty of Nature in photographs, and visit museums and fine art galleries. She and her husband, Michael, live near the shore of the Columbia River in the Pacific Northwest. You may visit Victoria at: www.victorialindstrom.com

Facebook | Twitter @AuthorLindstrom | Goodreads | Pinterest

Giveaway:
One hardcover copy of The Tale of Willaby Creek (US) and an ebook of The Tale of Willaby Creek (INT)
(Books will be delivered upon release, or shortly before.)
Ends May 19, 2015

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This event was organized by CBB Book Promotions.

Gambit Blog Tour and Guest Post by C.L. Denault

noreply@blogger.com (Kriston Johnson) — Wed, 22 Apr 2015 07:00:00 +0000

Today I am excited to be a part of the Gambit, by C.L. Renault, blog tour. When I read the summary it sounded like I book I would enjoy reading, and I wanted to help spread the word and introduce this YA dystopian to you, too.

Summary~

In Earth’s battle-ridden future, humans have evolved. Those with extraordinary skills rise to power and fame. Those without live in poverty.

Sixteen-year-old Willow Kent believed she was normal. But when a genetically-advanced military officer shows up in her village and questions her identity, long-buried secrets begin to emerge. With remarkable skills and a shocking genetic code the Core and its enemies will do anything to obtain, Willow suddenly finds the freedom she craves slipping through her fingers. Greed, corruption, and genetic tampering threaten every aspect of her existence as she’s thrust, unwilling, into the sophisticated culture of the elite Core city. To ensure peace, she must leave the past behind, marry a man she’s never met, and submit to the authority of a relentless officer with a hidden agenda of his own.

Her life has become a dangerous game. How much will she sacrifice in order to win?

Get Gambit in paperback or for your kindle today!

A Web of Inspiration

My brain is a spider. Weird, right?

I’m not terribly crazy about spiders, mind you. Especially those gray ones with the hairy legs. Ugh! I almost stepped on one as a child. It was a dark morning, and I was barefoot, and when I flipped on the light, I saw that hairy beast right beside my toes. I’m pretty sure I screamed. And for weeks afterward, I would stand on my bed and lean over, propping my hands against the wall before turning on the light. No way was I going to step on that floor until I knew it was hairy-legged-spider-free.

But when I think of my brain, it reminds me of a spider. Not because they’re venomous and predatory and attack defenseless hobbits carrying The One Ring, but because they spin webs. Delicate, intricate webs that catch the morning dew and sparkle in the sunlight. Meaningful webs, like the ones Charlotte spun for Wilber to save his life.

When people ask me what inspired Gambit, I can’t really give them a quick answer. That’s because my brain is constantly spinning a web of thoughts. A strand here, a strand there, not really looking like much or making sense—until suddenly, they all come together.

It was an episode of Alphas on the Syfy channel that gave me a revelation moment for Gambit. My brain had been doing its normal thing, spinning strands of thought and speculation and wonder. One was about the 2012 Mayan prediction for the end of the world. Another had to do with an article I’d read about the instability of the US economy. Yet another was about the theory of evolution. Others were actively being spun—like the cool, superhuman abilities in the Alphas episode.

And then, somehow, my brain connected the superhuman characters with evolution; and those connected with my wonder at our planet alignment; and then it mixed in my fears about an economy that might be on the verge of collapsing.

A series of “what-ifs” followed. What if the Mayan prediction wasn't about the end of the world, but about a jump in human evolution? What if people all over the world started manifesting unusual abilities? What if those people were treated like celebrities, but then—as they became more numerous—were feared and eventually hunted down? What if those extraordinary people fought back by initiating a global economic meltdown? What if a terrible war followed, and the people with abilities won?

For me, it was one breathless moment. In that moment, my brain connected the strands—and I saw that future in all its darkness and possibility. So I handed it over to my imagination and let the magic begin.

So while I’m not a huge fan of spiders, I love what they can do. I love their dedication, their persistence, and their talent for connecting tiny strands together to create a thing of beauty.

Just like Charlotte.

About the author:

C.L. Denault is a speculative fiction writer who loves dreaming up tales of adventure and intrigue. A former systems analyst, she gave up her nerdy code-writing skills to care for her family (including a son with special needs), and currently lives among the vast stretches of cornfields in Illinois.

Writing stories and posting on The INFJ Café are her biggest passions, along with drinking coffee and watching sci-fi. When she’s not hanging out with her husband and kids, she can usually be found at a library or tucked away in the shadowy corner of a hip coffeehouse. She’s also been glimpsed sneaking into her garage, late at night, to work on her time machine.

Her debut novel, Gambit, is the first in a Young Adult dystopian series.

Find out more at cldenault .com, twitter or facebook.

Looking For A New Cozy Mystery?

noreply@blogger.com (Kriston Johnson) — Tue, 30 Dec 2014 04:13:00 +0000

Welcome to Ashland, Oregon, home of the world-famous Oregon Shakespeare Festival and the setting for Ellie Alexander’s debut mystery MEET YOUR BAKER.

(On a personal note, I feel very drawn the the Shakespeare Festival as it sounds like it has a Faerieworlds flare to it.)

MEET YOUR BAKER is a culinary mystery centered in the fictional bakeshop, Torte, with a mother/daughter pastry duo. It includes original handcrafted recipes. Meet Ashland!

In Ashland you’ll find an eclectic community of artists, outdoor adventure seekers, college students, farmers, retirees and a constant stream of tourists. At nearly 2,000 feet in elevation, its Mediterranean summers make it the perfect spot to watch Shakespeare under the stars or hike one of the surrounding peaks. In the winter, Ashland becomes home to ski enthusiasts with nearby Mt. Ashland, and plenty of backcountry trails.

You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a charming English village with Ashland’s Shakespeare-inspired pubs, restaurants and shops.

Meander through Lithia Park where you’ll pass ancient trees, grassy patches and picnic benches, and wild deer. Be sure to get a glimpse of the towering Oregon Shakespeare Festival buildings, and stop to drink from Lithia’s mineral spring fountains.

Take Shakespeare’s stairs to “the bricks” where theater lovers and actors gather before performances.

Finally, end your day with a sweet treat at one of Ashland’s many divine bakeshops.

Be sure to check out the blog tour that is filled with reviews, interviews and guest posts by the author! The tour starts January 5th and runs through the 16th. Check out the schedule!

About MEET YOUR BAKER:

Welcome to Torte—a friendly, small-town family bake shop where the treats are so good that, sometimes, it’s criminal…

After graduating from culinary school, Juliet Capshaw returns to her quaint hometown of Ashland, Oregon, to heal a broken heart and help her mom at the family bakery. The Oregon Shakespeare Festival is bringing in lots of tourists looking for some crumpets to go with their heroic couplets. But when one of Torte’s customers turns up dead, there’s much ado about murder…

"Sure to satisfy both dedicated foodies and ardent mystery lovers alike."

―Jessie Crockett, author of Drizzled with Death

The victim is Nancy Hudson, the festival’s newest board member. A modern-day Lady Macbeth, Nancy has given more than a few actors and artists enough reasons to kill her…but still. The silver lining? Jules’s high school sweetheart, Thomas, is the investigator on the case. His flirtations are as delicious as ever, and Jules can’t help but want to have her cake and eat it too. But will she have her just desserts? Murder might be bad for business, but love is the sweetest treat of all…

"Alexander weaves a tasty tale of deceit, family ties, delicious pastries, and murder.” ―Edith Maxwell, author of A Tine to Live, A Tine to Die　

About the Author:

Ellie Alexander is a Pacific Northwest native who spends ample time testing pastry recipes in her home kitchen or at one of the many famed coffeehouses nearby. When she’s not coated in flour, you’ll find her outside exploring hiking trails and trying to burn off calories consumed in the name of research. Follow her on Facebook or Twitter to learn more.

Links:

Twitter | Facebook

Giveaway:

Paperback copy of Meet Your Baker, Chai Tea, designer baking liners and a Starbucks gift card.

Open to US addresses only.

Ends 1/6/15

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This event was organized by CBB Book Promotions.

Candace Candace's Book Blog & CBB Book Promotions http://www.candacesbookblog.com

A Quick Christmas Update

noreply@blogger.com (Kriston Johnson) — Sun, 21 Dec 2014 18:54:00 +0000

A lot has happened since my last post in November. But first I will tie up my loose ends.

I am not a NaNoWriMo winner. Meaning I did not write 50k new words last month. But as of now I am finished with my first draft of Ensared and am currently working on draft two.

Also as you can see I did not share my cover. I was going to organize the reveal myself but I am to busy so I am in the process of organizing one with a promoter. I will post the sign up sheet as soon as the details are ironed out.

As for the now. I will be taking another break from the blog until after Christmas. Life is just to busy for me. Apart from the regular holiday madness I am also coping with the loss of my family matriarch.

My grandmother, Dorotha Christensen passed away last week. She was an amazing woman. I was very close to my grandmother and miss her immensely. I could write forever about the amazing things she had done in her lifetime but I fear the internet is not big enough to hold all of the memories and feelings I could share.

So I will end with this. Call your grandma, mom, dad or any member of your family and tell them that you love them. Because as hard as it is to admit, they will not be there forever. I have the satisfaction of knowing that my last words to my grandmother were, "I love you, Grandma."

It's NaNoWriMo Time!

noreply@blogger.com (Kriston Johnson) — Thu, 30 Oct 2014 04:06:00 +0000

All right, here we go. It's the time of year where we lock ourselves away from the family, increase caffeine levels and kiss our lives goodbye. It's NaNoWriMo!

As a former winner I realize how taxing and intense it will be. I think I am far enough removed from the last experience to remember just how hard it was. But I also remember how proud I was of myself when I completed the 50,000 words in one months time.

In order to give my novel its best chance I will be signing off from all social media until December 1st. My first post when I return will be the book summary and cover reveal. My plan is to publish by April 2015. I can share this though...

My novel will be book two in The Legends Of Elyndia series. Are you ready for the title...Ensnared.

New To My Shelf

noreply@blogger.com (Kriston Johnson) — Tue, 28 Oct 2014 07:00:00 +0000

It's no secret that I am a cover junkie. So I pretty much decided I was going to buy this book without even knowing what it was about. But as luck would have it, it's full of magic and mystery, two of my favorite things.

I am halfway done reading Illusions of Fate by Kiersten White and I am really enjoying the story. Check back next week for the review.

I bought The Iron Trial because it was penned by one of my favorite authors, Cassandra Clare. I love all of her books and I anticipate that I will enjoy this one as well.

I know that a lot of people have noted similarities between The Iron Trail and Harry Potter and I am fine with that. I loved Harry Potter and stories about kids going to magic school. So bring it on!

Just Finished Reading...Ruin and Rising

noreply@blogger.com (Kriston Johnson) — Sat, 25 Oct 2014 04:58:00 +0000

Yes, I realize this is not a pic of Ruin and Rising. :)

*This is more about my thoughts on the series as a whole, not just Ruin and Rising.*

There is something very comforting about reading books in a series. When you start the second and third books you are already familiar with the characters, the world, and the writer’s style. It’s like slipping into a favorite pair of jammie pants and cozying up under the snuggie.

I just finished reading Ruin and Rising by Leigh Bardugo and I have to say I am very pleased with how the YA Fantasy trilogy wrapped up. It has been at least a year since I read Seige and Storm but I easily slid back into the Grisha’s land of Ravka. Alina, our brave heroine, grew right in front of our eyes. She started out a mere orphan in a war torn land and progressed into powerful Sun Sommoner in a very believable way.

This well thought out story was written in a way that ties everything together and everything that happens is for a reason. As a writer this series is an excellent example of how back story and secondary characters, if done properly, enhance a story without bogging it down.

There was humor, joy, hilarious banter and even a fare share of sad; everything a good story should have. I would love to go into depth about the emotions I have over Alina, Mal, and Nikoli, but it would spoil the plot for those who have yet to read these fantastic novels. And for those of you who have already read it, you know what I’m talking about.

So as the story came to a close and the depression began to take hold I clicked through to the final pages of the book to find a note from the author about her next series. *joyously claps because now all is right in the world* It’s a story that takes place in the island country of Kerch, located west of Ravka in the True Sea. There we will meet Kaz Brekker, “thief and gang leader often called Dirtyhands”. I have no idea when we will be graced the upcoming release, but I can already tell you that I will be first in line to buy it.