Thank you for joining The Book Nymph PR for this fantastic March issue! Inside you’ll find interviews, author spotlights, exclusive excerpts, poetry, writing tips, and more! Enjoy. Top 10 Places to do a Book Reading An Interview with Author, Morgan Jane Author Spotlight: Andrea Raine Book Feature: Shadow of a Dragon by, Kyra Dune Three Steps for Filling a Blank Page An Interview with Author, Kirstin Pulioff Holes in Space, a Poem Author Spotlight: Andrea Barbosa
Top 10 Places to do a Book Reading! By, K.N. Lee 1. A coffee shop 2. Libraries close to your home...or go on a road trip! 3. Schools (local community colleges, universities, private & public schools) 4. A retirement community
5. Google + Hangouts 6. Church 7. Local bookstores 8. Facebook videos 9. YouTube 10. Rehabilitation centers (sick children's ward, etc)
Rise of the Flame Available on Amazon
An Interview With Author, Morgan Jane Conducted by Write Like a Wizard
Where are you from? I was born in Columbus, Ohio but grew up in the hills of Eastern Kentucky in a small town called Inez. Small means population 600! My Father, Grandmother and other relatives all had businesses in town, and I feel like I was raised by a community of wonderful people. Now I reside in Central Kentucky near Lexington and miss knowing everyone around me. What inspired you to write your first book? My love of urban fantasy books led me into writing fan fiction for four years. I just couldn’t get enough and wanted to create my own continuation of certain series. I
never dreamed of publishing my own work even though fans would tell me to all the time. It wasn’t until someone I know personally read my fan fiction and some of my original work told me about self-publishing that I decided to finish Sanguis City. Do you write full-time or part-time? How do you balance your writing life with your family/work life? I would love to write full time but having three children and a very full life doesn’t allow for it, at least during the summer months. I am hoping with my kids back in school I can devote eight hours a day to actually writing. I need long spans of time to write that it is useless for me to think I can accomplish what I need to in a couple hours. As a self-published author, I do it all, writing, editing, cover design, formatting, promotion, marketing, and the list just gets longer. Networking on social media alone seems to take up most of my day. Then I find myself trying to write when my husband and children go to sleep. I stay up all night writing and am worthless the next day. Needless to say, I am still searching for that balance as this turns into an all-day adventure at times. What jobs have you held that influence your stories? Blogging since Blogger was invented and being a freelance writer, I had to keep up with the times. Meaning, I had to
know a little bit about everything, but that was no big change for me. I have always had a natural curiosity and a wide range of interests. Also, my love of reading and art influences my stories. I have always been surrounded by creative independent thinkers. My husband and I used to publish a paper poetry magazine and post people’s short stories and art online. Write Like A Wizard reminds me of the Psychoponic Press, our old website. Now that I am writing again, I want to start it up again. How did you come up with the title for Sanguis City? Drinking wine by the fire, I explained my story idea to my husband. He is well read but not in the genre books I love, so I was explaining that I wanted to write a story within a world. My story wasn’t going to be about the world I have created but rather set in it. Long story short, he is in love with the world and thought my city needed a great name. Having both studied Latin we were in love with the word for Blood, Sanguis. I was writing a book about a city made by vampires, it just seemed to fit. Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp? I didn’t intend to write anything but fantastic fun but social commentary might shine through in my writing.
There isn’t anything I want the reader to do but enjoy the ride. What books have most influenced your life most? I have read all the classics and gone over them in great detail in many classes LOL. I have studied the Bible as literature, Greek plays, poetry, philosophy, and so on. Literature as a whole has been important to me, but Alice Walker’s books really struck me when I was young. Possessing the Secret of Joy was such a compelling read and set me on a path of political awareness, even though the book is more about women. But alas, I have given up activism for Vampire books. A girl needs her fun in life! What book are you reading now? I am reading a new author, Skye Turner’s Alluring Turmoil. It’s steamy, and I am starting it tonight! I'll certainly have to check that out! Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest? I have met so many new and indie authors since publishing Sanguis City. I am just getting a chance to read all their books because I cannot read while writing. I wrote fan fiction and can pick up another’s voice easily. I have to try to stay true to my own voice. There is an author, K.N.
Lee, I have read three of her books now and believe she is a talented storyteller. LOL, and I am not just saying that because you are interviewing me. Paranormal and fantasy are my favorite genres, and The Chronicles of Koa blended them perfectly. What are your current projects? Currently, I am working on Sanguis City Carpe Noctem, a stand-alone erotica, a standalone romance and two ghost stories for contests. And I admit I am writing some fan fiction on the side for fun. Name one entity that you feel supported you outside of family members. Book blogs and other indie authors have been wonderful. I feel blessed to work in such a supportive community. If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book? I reread Sanguis City so many times and included everything that I wanted to add. I guess with a series, I have a chance to add so much more that I wouldn’t change a thing about this book. Can you share a little of your current work with us?
Sanguis City: Carpe Noctem is my main priority and no, no spoilers! I love that readers are dying to know what happens next even though Sanguis City isn’t a true cliffhanger. Many things are resolved, but the story has a clear path forward. One reviewer even said she wanted to chain me to the computer until I finish. What I can say is that all the players are back. Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing? I write what I enjoy to write, so very little is challenging. Personal stories have been challenging before, but I prefer to write fiction now. My first short story of the series was difficult. It was a different style than the other works and it took a lot of effort because of the change. Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work? Charlaine Harris is my current favorite. I could read all her series over and over. She writes mysteries that are funny, scary and completely engrossing. I would give anything to write like her. Who designed the covers? My husband W. Solomon Mitchell envisioned and painted the Sanguis City Art on canvas for me after I told him
about the book. He also designed all the covers except Sanguis City’s final. I put together that one myself. What was the hardest part of writing your book? Rewriting the story after writing the two prequels was the hardest part. I had to scrap around 20,000 words that were no longer true. Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it? That I can do anything I set my mind to. What do you think about e-publishing versus technical publishing? Having e-published art and stories on a very small scale before ebooks were widespread, I love the digital format. I know that I am reading more with the ease of my kindle, and it hasn’t stopped me from purchasing actual books. I think paper books will survive. Do you have an agent or publisher? How did you go about finding one? No, it’s just me. I want to see what I can do without restrictions of any kind before looking for a publisher. I am still growing as a writer, and self-publishing gives me the freedom to do what I most enjoy.
Do you have any advice for other writers? I have been giving my stories away for free for years. I just now started publishing my work. My advice would be to let people read your work and if they enjoy it, go for it – self publish. Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers? Thanks for your support, feedback and reviews. More lemons to come, and I do write H.E.A. don’t worry. If you could live anywhere, where would it be? Coming back from NYC a few months ago, I want to say I would like to live there… but nah, it’s a place to visit. I used to say Egypt or on an island, but now that I know myself better, I realize I want to live right here in Central Ky. People are friendly, the air is clean and it’s beautiful. I get hot winters and freezing winters and my favorite seasons in between. If you could have any super power, what would it be? Teleportation, but I could teleport others when they touch me. Then I could travel cheaper and quicker.
For More on Morgan Jane: Sanguis City Blog Twitter Facebook
Netherworld: The Chronicles of Koa Book One Available on Amazon
Meet our guest, Andrea Raine. Author Bio: Andrea McKenzie Raine earned a B.A. in English Literature at the University of Victoria. She has attended the successful Planet Earth Poetry reading series (formerly known as Mocambopo) in Victoria, BC since 1997, and participated in the Glenairley writing retreats led by Canadian poet and novelist Patrick Lane in Sooke, BC. In 2005, she published her first book of poetry titled A Mother’s String through Ekstasis Editions. Andrea lives in
Victoria, BC with her husband and two young sons. Turnstiles is her debut novel.
Twitter Website Facebook Goodreads Writing Blog
YA Dystopian Book Feature Shadow of the Dragon
Title: Shadow Of The Dragon Author: Kyra Dune Genre: YA Dystopian Fantasy
Micayta’s world has long been gripped in the thrall of an endless winter that grows worse with the passing of time. Life is a constant struggle. Then catastrophe strikes the small town in which she lives, thrusting Micayta and her brother Pytaki alone into the snow laden countryside. To keep herself and her brother alive will take all the strength that she has. Then a mysterious stranger appears to complicate matters. Tech has an amazing story to tell, but is any of it true? Old wounds and betrayals make Micayta slow to trust, but without Tech she and her brother will never make it across the countryside alive. Through bandits, wolves, and snowstorms, the three struggle their way to the city of Phadra. But the real danger lies within the city walls, where Micayta becomes a player in a deadly game with a dark-eyed mage. Nothing is what it seems. As the truth unravels, Micayta finds herself drawn into a struggle much bigger than she ever dreamed. Choices must be made and sides taken. But the question of who to trust is one not easily answered. Micayta will have to open her heart and find a way to let someone else in, or the flames that destroyed her home will consume the world.
Excerpt A shadow drew Micayta’s eyes to the sky and for a moment she could only stare up in confusion at what seemed to be a large cloud floating slowly by. But as far as she could remember, there had never been clouds at night and certainly none so large, hanging so low over the rooftops. Then a building almost directly across the street exploded in a ball of flames, raining debris down on the street. Micayta stumbled back with a cry, the sudden sight and sound shocking her out of her stupor. She turned to run down a narrow alley between two buildings. Pale moonlight glinted off crimson scales. Another explosion rolled through the night and Micayta lost her footing on a patch of ice. She went down hard on the frosted ground. Her knee cracked against the ground and she cried out. For a moment, she lay panting with her face pressed against the ice. The scent of charred wood came to her on the wind, mixed with another, fouler scent that she could not place. Holding her knee, Micayta rolled over on her back and looked straight up into the face of a nightmare. Two long, black horns curved back from a reptilian face covered in crimson scales; sharp spikes ran all down a serpentine neck that was mottled with a faded shade of orange; clawed feet gripped the edge of the bakery roof; two leathery wings cast a dark shadow over the alley. The dragon’s black eyes gazed at
something over the rooftops, seemingly oblivious to Micayta’s presence below.
About The Author Kyra Dune was born in Oklahoma, but spent most of her life travelling with her family. She is the author of more than twenty fantasy novels, including: Shadow of the Dragon, Elfblood, and Firebrand. As a child, her favorite stories were those that told of ordinary children being whisked away to magical lands. She has yet to find her own secret wardrobe or rabbit hole, but she hasn’t given up the search. You never know what might be waiting over the next rainbow.
Connect With Kyra: Twitter Blog Website Pinterest
Goodreads
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, Scarlett Dawn, turns up the heat with two best friends, who were always meant for each other, in the first novella of The Club series, Just One Sip... Available on Amazon
Three Steps for Filling a Blank Page K.N. Lee What is your goal when sitting down for a writing session? It should be to do whatever it takes (within reason) to fill the blank page! That doesn't mean to ramble nonsensical words and try to string them together into something coherent. It means that you should find new practices that'll urge you out of that writer's block or moment of desperation.
Lately I've been struggling to stay focused and meet my word quota, but after utilizing my tried and true little writing tricks, the inspiration and the words are flowing once again! I wanted to share three of my tactics. They've always worked for me, so I hope you can benefit as well.
Three Steps 1. Write from another character's POV Sometimes changing it up a bit will inspire you. Give that character that makes you draw a blank a break, and write from one of the other main character's point of view. This is effective when writing from 3rd person. If writing from 1st person, the second tip should be helpful! 2. Work on a different scene Stuck on a part of the story with nowhere to go? Move on to that awesome battle or love scene you've been thinking about...or dreaming about. You'll be surprised by how this opens up your mind and keeps the story flowing. 3. Write a jot list with your ideas for dialogue and scenes Jor lists are great! You simply write out everything you'd like to capture with your story. Sometimes writing out what your character's motivations are, or their backgrounds, your goals for the story, and so forth will fire you up and put you back on the right path.
More tips on defeating writer's block here!
An Interview With Kirstin Pulioff
Where are you from? Well, I was born and raised in Southern Californian, but moved to the Pacific Northwest to attend Oregon State University, and have lived in Oregon ever since. Pulioff! That's an interesting surname. Where does it originate? It sure is, and I owe it all to my husband! His family is from a small town in Northern Greece. How long have you been writing?
I have been writing my whole life. From the time I was about seven, I really started to incorporate it into my life. Writing stories, transcribing shows, making up songs and plays, it has always been my way of expression. You have children, correct? How many? How do you find the time to balance writing with your busy life? Advice to other writers about time management? Yes, I have two kids, 5 &4. As for balance, I was hoping you could tell me! I am still figuring it out, day by day, tweet by tweet! I am 100% focused mommy during the day, and then after the bedtime stories, I put my author cap on. I realized early, that venturing into writing as a career would not happen overnight, and that some sacrifices and readjustments would need to be made. I just try to stay consistent, positive, and keep the momentum going. For advice- as with anything, don’t give up.
Have you ever been to a writing conference, class, of critique group? How was that experience? I actually never have. I got my degree in Forest Management and didn’t really know much about the literary world before I started submitting my book. I had a friend who worked as an editor, and she helped me fine tune my book for submissions. I love connecting with other authors on Facebook, twitter and Goodreads, and imagine that attending a conference or a regular critique group would be a lot of fun. What genre do you prefer to write in? I tend to write fantasy. I love this genre for the ability to suspend belief, the magic and mystery, the idea that good will always triumph over evil, and that Prince Charming is waiting around the corner. What inspired you to write The Escape of Princess Madeline?
This is a long story, so I will give you the short answer. As an elementary youth, and advanced reader, I found myself reading books that were not the most appropriate for my age. So, when I began to write, I wrote a book to fill that gap- a fantasy adventure with aspects of magic, fantasy and romance appropriate for all ages. How long did it take you to write the book? 7 years I wrote the first draft in about a month and a half during my lunch breaks at an office job. Then I put it down, not knowing what to do with it next. A few months later, I transferred it from my journal to the computer and made the first rounds of edits. After that, I had my kids, and stopped focusing on my writing. It wasn’t until 2 years ago that I re-focused on my dream and started to make it a reality. I picked it up, edited it, edited again, and again and then began submitting. It took six months before I got my contract and another six until publication.
What books have most influenced your life? Ohhh‌. Good question. That is hard to pick. The one that has most influenced my life is The Bible. If we are looking at the philosophy, the fantasy and the fun, then David Eddings, Belgaraid and Mallorean series hold a special place in my heart. What book are you reading now? I am a little embarrassed to say. I still have the Hunger Games waiting to be read. Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest? Absolutely! I am so happy about the new authors I have found. Some of my new favorites are Michelle Browne, Trish Marie Dawson, Travis Luedke & Bobbie Shafer What are your current projects?
Right now, I am working on the final touches on “The Battle for Princess Madeline.” Now that Princess Madeline has the future she has dreamed of, how far will she go to protect it? Do you recall how your interest in writing originated? Writing has always been my ‘thing.’ Some people are athletic, some like to draw, to sing, to bake, and I write. Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing? For me, the hardest part about writing is finding the time. When it comes to writing for me, it happens either in the evening or the weekends when I can escape for a couple of hours. So, it’s a matter of getting everything out of my head and onto the paper in a relatively short period of time. Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?
Dr. Seuss. He has a way to balance the lesson with artful whimsy. Whether talking green eggs or saving trees, his words are captivating. What was the hardest part of writing your book? The hardest part was deciding what I wanted to do afterwards. It was one thing to write the book, but another process to get me ready for submitting it and opening myself to the new level or scrutiny and vulnerability. I am an introverted person, so taking this step was a big hurdle for me. Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it? Each book holds new lessons, new challenges and new growths. For me, each book is discovering a new part of myself, uncovering a new truth, and taking new steps towards living my dreams. This book really showed me that at any age, it is important to take charge of your life and find a way to live it fully.
Do you have any advice for other writers? My only advice is to always stay true to yourself, your muse, and your dreams. Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers? As always, I am so appreciative to my readers and fans. Writing is such a joy for me, and I am thrilled at every review, every rating, and every smiling reader. If you could live anywhere, where would that be? That is a toss up. I LOVE living in Oregon (minus the rain)‌ but I also loved my time as an exchange student in New Zealand, and Greece is absolutely magical. Maybe I can timeshare between all three.
For more on Kirstin Pulioff, visit her at:
Kirstin Pulioff Website: www.kirstinpulioff.com Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/KirstinPulioffAutho r Twitter: http://twitter.com/KirstinPulioff Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/11281 401-kirstin-pulioff Amazon.com: https://www.amazon.com/author/kirstinpul ioff Amazon Book: http://www.amazon.com/The-EscapePrincess-Madelineebook/dp/B00A1Y87P0/ref=tmm_kin_title_0
Excerpt for Holes in Space - A Poetry Collection: Poème You are my poem, versed in love, rhymed with passion, worded with desire. You are my fragrance, bathed in flowers, mixed with the scent of the stars in bloom. You are my dream, embroidered in silk, sewn with illusion, dressed with kisses. You are my one, my heart, my love, my eternal, my life, my light. You are my forever, my everlasting poem, you.
About the Author Andrea Barbosa
Andrea Barbosa was born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism and took creative writing courses at Texas Tech University. Besides loving to travel, read and write, she maintains an Indie review blog and is a contributor on Yahoo Contributor Network and Yahoo! Voices websites. Her work has been influenced by the writings of Joyce Carol Oates, Erica Jong, and contemporary Brazilian authors Paulo Coelho and Fernando Sabino, among others.
In the future, the world is at war. Available on Amazon
For More on Andrea Barbosa: Facebook page Twitter Goodreads Amazon author page Pinterest Blog
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