Monday, January 25, 2016

New #Teen #PNR Release from @MarcusDamanda and @EvernightTeen #Urban #Fantasy

“This is what the truth is. Second Salvations murdered my parents, and I’m running away.” A single post over unregulated Internet channels. A sleeping society awakens to a chase, broadcast live on television screens all across the New United States of America... Rebecca and Daniel have never met. A fifteen-year-old preacher’s kid and a sixteen-year-old atheist outcast, they appear to have little in common. And yet they have both attracted the attention of a recruiter for Angel Island, where bad kids go to be remade—or destroyed. Agents of the all-powerful New America Unity Church will stop at nothing to get them. They’re building an army, a modern children’s crusade, in which Rebecca and Daniel may be just the kind of future leaders they need. If not, they might be just the kind of sacrifice necessary to keep the rest of the faithless in line.


What does your writing desk look like? What would we find on it right this minute? 

My “desk” is actually a table with aluminum legs! The mouse for my computer sits atop a soft, book-sized afghan that, in turn, is binder-clipped to my all-in-one hardback edition of The Lord of the Rings Trilogy (50th Anniversary edition). There’s a small pile of McDonald’s napkins that I’ve accumulated under the monitor. I also have a pepper shaker on my desk for some reason—can’t remember how it got here, and I’m not sure why I haven’t put it away yet. Oh, and there’s my magnifying glass. I was wondering where that went. Most importantly, there’s a small black metal box filled with notecards. I do all my outlining on those cards before transferring to computer—weird, I know. My daily double shot of caffeine is here, too: coffee and Diet Coke. Next to me is the cat perch, where my partner in crime, Shazam, curls up and makes sure I don’t get myself into too much trouble.



When and why did you begin writing?

I was nine years old when I wrote my first short story, an eight-page epic and heroic fantasy tale called “Mighty War of the Dragons.” I was going to a private religious school at the time, getting into all kinds of trouble, and really feeling like I couldn’t fit in with my peers. Being able to pass that story around and get other kids to read it—well, that was my thing. I was starved for attention. There was no driving need to be creative, no need for catharsis or escape. I wanted an audience, and I had no other talents.

At what point did you first consider yourself a writer?

I’ve considered myself a writer ever since I started writing tales that weren’t specifically assigned to me by a teacher. I even bound my stories with little garbage bag twisties and put ratings on them, like this: “The Witch and the Haunted Forest,” by Marcus Damanda, Rated R for violence and the presence of demons.

What inspired you to write your first book?

My family, especially my dad, was very encouraging. I also had terrific friends who pushed me and help me get better—especially an amazing woman named Barbara Posey, who’s been suffering through my material for thirty-one years now. When I was nineteen years old, I wrote my first real book-length story that had a chance. I was inspired largely by Stephen King at that point. The horror market was in full-gear back then, and I was excited by the prospect of shocking and terrifying an unsuspecting world.

Do you have a specific writing style? In other words, are you a plotter or a pantser? 

I’m absolutely a “plotter.” I plan everything. It’s ridiculous, borderline obsessive—but, then again, when it comes time to start the fun work of typing a draft, I can usually attack the story with a good deal of confidence. There are times, sitting in front of the screen, that’ll I will lean back in my chair and actually cackle in satisfaction—which used to freak out the cat, but he’s used to it now.

How did you come up with the titles to your book(s)?

I alternate between banging my head against a wall and screaming aloud, “God, please, give me a title that doesn’t totally suck!”

Is there a message in your book(s) that you want readers to grasp?

I’m already prepared for people to make the assumption that The Salvation State is a “message” book—a grand statement about the evils of government and organized religion. It’s fair enough, I suppose, although all I really wanted to do was try my hand at the dystopian future genre. Same thing with The Devil in Miss Drake’s Class horror trilogy. There’s no denying there’s an anti-bullying message underlying that story, but my first goal was to write something blow-your-hair-back scary. I never deliberately set out to teach something in a didactic way to readers; nor do I mind if a larger implication comes through in a natural way. Story first—anything else is just a bonus … or, if done poorly, a distraction.

What are you currently working on? Can you give us a sneak peek?

I’m currently outlining the sequel to The Salvation State, of course! There’s nothing polished enough to show just yet, but I’m hoping it will be done by the end of the summer. I can tell you this much: there’s going to be a lot of action in it. It’ll be kind of a futuristic update of that old Steve McQueen movie, The Great Escape. I’m really excited about it.

Do you see writing as a career? Do you write full time? Or in addition to another job?

I absolutely see writing as a career, and I intend to do it until I seize up and die in front of the computer. However, I am also a middle school English teacher—so I’m juggling two careers at once. I love both jobs, and I’m always trying to get better at them.

Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?

Even as I was struggling socially and academically in my private school, I had a strong little brotherhood of friends at home. My writing got kick started by playing Dungeons and Dragons with the other neighborhood kids. D&D is a storytelling game at its core, and that was what appealed to me. So, before long, I took on the role of “Dungeon Master” in my group, setting up all the heroic and adventuresome scenarios the other kids would play through. And it was at exactly that time in my life that I started writing, too.

The Fun Stuff

Who I am: I am Marcus Damanda: world’s greatest uncle, teacher of tweens, master of Shazam the cat—I am a writer, weaver of nightmares and dreams, oracle and prophet, conjurer of tales magical and terrifying. I am the Ferryman who bears readers across story landscapes hitherto unexplored … or some crap like that.

What genres I write in: Dystopian future, horror, character-driven young adult and teen fiction

Favorite genres to read: See above! Also, I try to keep up with what the kids are reading at school, and I’ve grown unexpectedly fond of the romance novels and fantasies published by my talented colleagues at Evernight Teen.

Favorite TV shows: Game of Thrones—and that’s pretty much it. To me, usually, the closest I come to television is enjoying a never ending stream of audiobooks.

Last movie I saw on the big screen: The Force Awakens (along with everyone else), but I’m looking forward to The Hateful Eight.

What’s on my Netflix list (to be watched): I still have to finish up the two Mockingjay movies and The Scorch Trials, believe it or not.

Coffee or Tea: Coffee—easily. By the bucket.

Chocolate or Caramel: Yes. Put ’em together!

Apple Cider or Pumpkin Spice: Gotta go pumpkin here, unless we can ferment the cider and start a serious party.

Rock N Roll or Country: Rock and roll—specifically, 70s and 80s heavy metal.

Lumberjack or Police Officer: For a friend? I’ll take a cop any day. As an alter ego—still a cop. In a Monty Python movie, I’ll take the lumberjack.

Tropical Island or Winter Cabin: Winter cabin, warm fire crackling, the wind outside singing like a chorus of ghosts. And, yeah, you really don’t want me in swim trunks. We’ll leave it at that.





Marcus Damanda lives in Woodbridge, Virginia with his cat, Shazam. At various times throughout his life, he played bass guitar for the garage heavy metal band Mother’s Day, wrote for The Dale City Messenger, and published editorials in The Potomac News and The Freelance Star. Currently, while not plotting his next foray into fictitious suburban mayhem, he spoils his nieces and nephews and teaches middle school English.




1/16: Nics Book Nook http://nicsbooknook.blogspot.com


1/18: Darkest Cravings http://darkestcravings.blogspot.com


1/20: The Book Pub http://thebookpub.blogspot.com

1/21: All Book Finds http://shannaclemens.blogspot.com

1/22: Nikki Noffsinger http://nikkitrueblue.blogspot.com/

1/25: Fantasy Pages http://www.fantasypages.ca

Sunday, January 17, 2016

Indulge in a little SAND AND SIN with @Dani_Jace #MFRWauthor #RB4U #RomFantasy

Today we have Jax Taylor from Dani Jace’s new release, Sand and Sin.

Hi Denyse. Great to be here. 

Tell readers your occupation? Navy SEAL.

How did you meet your love interest and what’s here name? Peri. I walked into her bar and she read my number right away. I had to play handyman until she couldn’t resist me any longer. **laughs** 

Oh come on, you guys like it when women play hard to get. Guess you’re right. **smiles** 

What intrigues you most about her? She’s the wittiest woman I know. But then she’s had to learn while running a bar catering to SEALs.

How do you stay fit? Running through foreign countries toting an M4 rifle.

If you could change one thing in your life, what would it be? To have had more time with my father.

Sound like you still miss him. **nods** What would you say is your most comfortable article of clothing? The thigh strap holding my pistol. **winks**

Ha ha! What’s one thing Peri can do to totally turn you on? Run her fingers through her hair. She’s got amazing hair. 

What’s something you’ve done that could have landed you in prison? **laughs** I’d have to write you a list. 

I’ll bet! What worries you the most? That I won’t be there for Peri when she needs me. 

What’s a sexually fantasy that Peri would never agree to? She trusts me so probably nothing, if I asked nicely. **winks** 

What’s the hottest thing Peri has ever said to you? Hmm…oh I know. “So, I’m thinking we should seal this deal, Chief.” 

Awesome! Well that’s it, Jax. Thanks for coming. It was a blast, Denyse. Thanks for having me.

Blurb:

The heart has a mission of its own…

Wounded in more ways than one, Navy SEAL Jax Taylor only understands short-term commitments. And when he walks into the Trident Bar in Virginia Beach, beautiful bartender Peri Halstead sizes him up right away. But that doesn’t stop her from teasing him with her sultry sarcasm, or taking him home—after she finds him passed out cold in the parking lot…

Soon enough, Jax is recovering at Peri’s in return for doing some handyman work, and the sexy sparks are flying—in almost every room in the house. Peri tells herself she deserves some fun, especially now that she’s a single mom with a cheating ex to deal with. But when it’s time for her and Jax to go their separate ways, the miles between them—and the danger that’s about to touch both their lives—has them wondering if Jax can learn to love more than the mission… 

Excerpt:

After catching a ride with another SEAL leaving base, Jax Taylor made it to a car rental before closing. The GPS directed him to the Trident, located in a small shopping strip a few miles north of Oceana Naval Base. The sign bore the SEAL special ops standard of an eagle on an anchor with a trident in one claw and a pistol in the other. SEALs had nicknamed their insignia the Budweiser because of its resemblance to the famous beer’s logo.

He climbed from the compact. Stiff from the bullet wound and transatlantic trip, he limped a few steps but righted his gait before opening the heavy oak door. In his bar experiences, such an entrance usually led to a man cave.

Inside, darkness enveloped him, matching his mood. Pain meds and exhaustion made him irritable. He was still pissed about not being allowed to rejoin his team, and doubly so because TJ had a training op circumventing their party. So much for buddy reunions.

Behind the bar, a tall, lean beauty glanced up from the beer taps. The gnawing ache in his leg disappeared under scrutiny of wide, sea green eyes. Long, wavy hair surrounded her shoulders like a lion’s mane. His fingers itched to tangle in the strands. Other more intimate visions flitted through his mind.

Months without a woman made him a sick bastard. Probably in stark contrast to the public’s standard perception of a SEAL, but they didn’t know or understand a Special Operator’s life. What they did for love of country and their brothers in arms. For him, the best antidote after a gruesome mission was down-and-gritty sex.

Before he readjusted his sour expression, she stepped in front of him. Her lovely gaze branded him with I got your number, sailor.

Amazon Kindle * Apple * Google * Kobo * Nook

Author Bio:

Dani Jace lives in coastal Virginia and enjoys writing headstrong, flip-flop casual heroines and everyday heroes who work with their hands―and other body parts. Claiming the Outer Banks of North Carolina as her second home, she includes the scenic and legendary chain of barrier islands as a setting for many of her tales.

When not working on her next novel, she’s dipping her toes in the ocean, reading or checking out the newest action flick. Husband, son and many imaginary characters make life complete.



Saturday, January 16, 2016

Downfall (The Incorruptibles 1) Release Blitz by @sdwasleyauthor #PNR #99cents

  

Release Blitz: Downfall (The Incorruptibles Book 1)


Release Date: January 7, 2016



Buy Links


99c Release Special! (Free on Kindle Unlimited)

Summary


From Amazon bestselling author S.D. Wasley comes her first work of new adult paranormal romance perfect for lovers of Lauren Kate's Fallen and the Richelle Mead's Bloodlines series.

Blurb

Frankie’s cousin wants her to do three things this year:

1. Lose her inhibitions
2. Do something spectacularly stupid
3. Fall madly in love

Travelling was Frankie’s life. As the daughter of a big-name evangelist, she’s been able to feed her hunger for new sights throughout most of her teenage years. Then a hushed-up scandal gets her thrown off the tour circuit and stuck at her uncle’s house in the town of Augur’s Well.

Forced to repeat her failed senior year, it looks like a dismal existence for Frankie—until she’s invited to the bizarre meeting place of four mismatched people ... and falls hard for the fascinating, secretive Cain Aleister.

Furtive meetings in an underground chamber ... Latin words carved into a stone wall ... intense desire ... and a secret so elusive she’ll do almost anything to bust it open. Until now, Frankie never believed in grand passions—but that’s not the only one of her beliefs about to implode right before her eyes.

Looks like Frankie’s going to score three for three.

Teaser


Excerpt


I had to touch him on his bike, to press my arms and thighs around him so I wouldn’t fall off. He was solid. I don’t know what I’d expected but, for some reason, that surprised me. I felt fear as well as something else I didn’t understand, something that made me tremble all over. I told myself it was just the exhilaration of speeding along the highway with the cooling wind rushing past my arms. He didn’t ride towards civilisation but took us even further beyond Gaunt House ruins. I had no idea how long we were out there but it must have been a long ride because the light started to change. I wondered if Cain could feel how hard my heart was thumping with it pressed against his back like that. When we finally arrived back the others’ cars were at the ruin. He cut the engine as we coasted to a halt. I let my arms fall reluctantly but stayed where I was.
“Where did you go, when you went out the other night?”
I felt Cain go tense and it took him a moment to answer. “What do you mean?”
“And last week. Where did you go? What’s the big secret?” I twisted around him, trying to see his face.
When he glanced down at me I knew for certain I was right. There was a secret. I nudged his back with my shoulder.
“I don’t know what …” he said, his tone mechanical.
My frustration surged. “I’m not going to let it go. You’ve invited me back here so what’s the secret? I bet the other three know. Tell me!” He didn’t answer. “We can do this the easy way or the hard way.” I shocked myself with this tough guy attitude. “Are you choosing the hard way?”
Cain was startled, too. “What are you going to do?”
I just slipped off the seat, leaving him to put the bike on its stand and follow me into the ruin.
“Francesca!”
I heard from his hurried footsteps that he wanted to talk to me before we went inside but I didn’t trust myself not to betray what I was feeling; this big … huge … massive desire, just barely disguised by frustration. I knew the other three were inside. It would be safe in there. We wouldn’t be able to have this conversation anymore. I just needed to make it inside before he caught up to me. After a swift clamber down the ladder I rushed blindly for the door but somehow Cain caught my hand to stop me an instant before I threw the door open.
Francesca.” He breathed my name warm against my neck.
A hot, uncomfortable flush hit me when Liz, Owen, and Jude saw my hand caught in Cain’s, although he made an attempt to pull his away. Too late. They’d seen our breathless awkwardness, dishevelled hair, and tangled fingers.


Praise for Downfall...


Author's VIP Readers' Club





S.D. Wasley was born and raised in Perth, Western Australia. She has been composing literary works since before she could write – at five years of age she announced her first poem in the kitchen, improv-style. About 20 years later she earned a PhD in communications. She writes in a range of genres including young adult, paranormal, mystery, new adult romance, and literary short stories.

Her debut novel was published in early 2015 through Evernight Teen, and her first adult paranormal romance will be released on January 7, 2016. Today, she lives and writes in a wine region with her partner and two daughters, surrounded by dogs, cats and chickens.



TOUR SCHEDULE
 

1/11: Sensuous Promos http://sensuouspromos.blogspot.com

1/12: All Book Finds http://shannaclemens.blogspot.com

1/13: Nics Book Nook http://nicsbooknook.blogspot.com

1/13: The Book Pub http://thebookpub.blogspot.com


1/14: Andrew Jericho http://andrewjericho.com/blog/


1/15: Darkest Cravings http://darkestcravings.blogspot.com




1/16: Nikki Noffsinger http://nikkitrueblue.blogspot.com/

1/16: Michelle Roth http://michelleroth.net/blog

1/16: Denysé Bridger http://www.fantasypages.ca



Tuesday, January 05, 2016

An exciting and wondrous world is now in print! @LadyBPublishing

LadyBee Publishing has just announced the release of their first Print book, from Internationally acclaimed author, Koos Verkaik. Discover the wonderful world of Alex and the Wolpertinger, Verkaik’s exciting fantasy/adventure series for children of all ages!


Alex and The Wolpertinger: The Monster Inn
(Book One)
First English/North American Paperback edition
Releasing – December 16, 2015

Available from Amazon or Createspace

Never trust a wolpertinger! For wolpertingers only give you troubles! Still, once, a long time ago, there was a boy who made friends with a wolpertinger. That was Alex, the boy from the Alps, who lived in the land of the giant king Clover and traveled through the Downhills–
together with Ludo the wolpertinger. They had many wonder adventures, and this is how they met.

Excerpt:

Rumour has it that the land of King Clover, which is situated in the large country of Bavaria, has the shape of a four-leaf clover. Should you be able to fly as high as a swallow, you would see that the land consists of four equal parts.

King and Queen Clover live in Northland, where you will find the high Alps.

Their son Prime built his castle in Southland, where the deep lakes are filled with fish.
Prince Dozen, the middle son, reigns in Eastland.

Ruff Rumble, the youngest prince, built a castle of black granite in Westland. Everybody calls it Robber’s Nest, and I work there in the kitchen...

Oh, by the way, my name is Alex. I am only a boy. But I have had many adventures. Together with Shabby Tabby Chum, an old grey tomcat.

If I start by telling you that the cat and I can talk to each other and that I am as small as he is, nobody will believe me—let alone that I claim that Shabby Tabby Chum and I have made friends with a wolpertinger... Better that I tell everything from the beginning, from the moment I stood eye to eye with this giant prince Ruff Rumble of Westland.

Join the adventure: Amazon or Createspace

Visit Koos and the Wolpertinger Museum at:

To learn more about this series, visit LadyBee Publishing here: