♥.•¨Author Elizabeth Mueller¨•.♥

My LTUE Sitings

2012-02-13T14:59:00.003-07:00

I held a panel at LTUE's Paranormal Romance: Injecting Romance into Ghost Stories with moderator Elana Johnson. I worked up a ditsy storm because of my anxiety the entire day up to the time of my appearances, then I crashed hard after my reading, which proceeded the panel. Not a pretty sight because I kept losing things.

See my mysterious black gown? That's my Wanda dress. Wanda is one of the main characters from Darkspell. She's the guardian of the Stormhold Coven, the necklace is the talisman that she gives to Winter for protection against the Shadoweaver. I dressed in character for my reading and used voices and facial expressions.

It was such a pleasant surprise to see Brenda Sills at LTUE!

Do you like my book signing display and getup?

Lynn and I decided to dress in character for the book signing!

My baby at the UVU bookstore!

My first book signing ever at LTUE. This one was cool because everyone that went was a writer--so easy to strike up conversations when you know you have something in common with a person at a signing.

Paul Genesse is one of the coolest authors I've ever met.

Donna Weaver and Konstanz Silverbow eating lunch at LTUE's cafeteria.

It was enjoyable, seeing old friends, making new ones, and chatting with potential authors who share the same obsessive love of writing. I usually go camera crazy, but I didn't this year. I only took what I could when I could--it was really busy.

Have you been to a writers conference? How was it like for you?

Read Darkspell here.

Writerly Whirlwinds

2012-02-10T00:00:00.000-07:00

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Right now, as you comfily read this post on your snuggly couch, I am in a whirlwind of authors, aspiring authors and readers as well as people who just love to learn.

This is my first writers conference ever that I will be a panelist in. Am I scared? Yes. Standing in front of dozens of people makes me feel weak as water! Okay, I know water can be very strong, but I am not there yet!

I am also doing a reading out of Darkspell! I've been reading books out loud for fifteen years--because I'm a mom, and I have read out loud at book readings to very small groups. I've read to a large group a picture book at an elementary school using silly voices, but maybe only four people will show up to my reading here. What do you think? I think a tip is keeping in mind my audience. LOL. We'll see how it goes.

So, where is this writers conference you ask? It's LTUE! I attended this conference when I was only aspiring to be an author a few years ago. Interesting how now it's reversed!

The next wind will sweep me away to my first book signing at the Gateway Barnes & Noble Saturday the 11th! A dear friend of mine was thoughtful enough to invite me as one of the several authors attending. I am so thrilled. Am I scared? Not really. I find presenting the worstest of scaries. But with a powerpoint, the universe is mine.

Muahahahaha!

What is your scary exciting moment?

coming up: how my weekend at the conference and book signing went! Aaa!

My #AtoZChallenge Venture!

2012-02-08T00:00:00.000-07:00

So I started outlining my alphabet for April!

At first, I was going to base my theme around being a writer, but I did that last year! Then I stole the idea from my gorgeous 9 year old who's doing Utah Studies from A to Z! So every night, she and I have been jotting down notes and "copying" each other.

What a fabulous experience and bonding opportunity for us. I am having lots of fun with this!

So what this means for you is a Tour de Utah! I'm trying to stick mostly with nature things, but if the letter persists in stubbornness, I'll just have to break down and do something peoply ...

I need 8 more alphabets to go and then I get to start writing out my posts! I am posting an image along with its source as well as a few links about the subject matter I can get to when I am done "staging" my ABCs.

I've had someone ask me if I plan to capitalize the featured letter with its color. My answer: of course! That was part of the funnest thing I did with my challenge! If you want to steal my idea, I welcome it!

Here is a cheat sheet reference calender for you, to make it easier:

April

1--A
2--B
3--C
4--D
5--E
6--F
7--G
9--H
10--I
11--J
12--K
13--L
14--M
16--N
17--O
18--P
19--Q
20--R
21--S
23--T
24--U
25--V
26--W
27--X
28--Y
30--Z

Hmmm, me thinks it looks like a cypher of sorts! I hope that helps some. I know last year I had accidentally skipped a day (since we don't post on Sunday but for the 1st for this year), and I had to go back through every scheduled post and redo the dates. Ugh. Not fun, let me tell you!

I've tossed the gauntlet, do you think you're up to accepting the challenge? Yes? Sign up here! Please?

Help us reach 1000 at Twitter!
use #AtoZChallenge discussing anything ABCish
Join us on Facebook!
Read our newspaper!

But it's Tradition . . . NOT!

2012-02-06T00:00:00.000-07:00

Bloomberg Businessweek sent me my weekly subscription. It had me reeling: "Amazon's hitman, a tale of books, betrayal, and the (alleged) secret plot to destroy literature" which refers to Amazon's Larry Kirshbaum.

Is he really seeking to destroy literature? I think it's a matter of perspective.

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Here's an excerpt from the article:

" 'Publishers are selling drinks on the Titanic,' says Joe Konrath. 'They are doing so much to protect their paper industry that they are disregarding the needs of customers and are treating authors poorly.' Konrath was once a struggling mystery writer living outside Chicago with hundreds of rejections to his name, nine unpublished novels, and a tempestous relationship with the publisher of two of his books, Hyperion. Then two years ago he started experimenting with uploading those books directly to the Kindle marketplace. Now, under the name of J.A. Konrath, he says he's making about $4,000 a day and collecting a &) percent rolaytly on every book he sells."

Publishers resent the fact that Amazon is *stealing authors from them.

Publishers v. Amazon, Amazon v. Publishers

On January 11th, I shared some heartache I face as a published author. Something one of my readers posted in the comments struck a chord in me. This is what she said:

"I sometimes think publishers are the pimps and writers are the prostitutes. Publishers have fancy names and fancy promises but it's the writers who bring in the loot, with the publisher getting a lion's share for looking good. My hub's in the corporate world, a minnow in a sea of big fish, so to speak. He says that in the corporate world publishers are the vendors and writers are the clients, with the latter having the power. But this has been turned around, with the latter having to say 'how high' when the publisher says jump. "

Hmmm . . . One might question if this is a passing fad or the sign of the times. It's no wonder more and more authors are turning to self-publishing. Does this mean that those of us who are opting self-publishing are destroyers of literature as the Bloomberg's title states? I think not! Authors are creators of literature, whether they choose Amazon or the traditional publisher.

Were you aware of all this muck going on in the book world? Where do you stand on this?

*My personal thoughts regarding this article.

Review copies: Free or not to Free?

2012-02-03T00:00:00.000-07:00

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So a dear friend of mine has this burning question. A question I had to figure out myself a while back--maybe I'm a bit stingy, but that's for you to figure out for your own marketing plan.

Let me know what you think.

Friend:
Hey, I have a question ... when someone says they want to review your book, do you wait for them to purchase it, or do you send them free copies ?

Me:

Your concern is a tricky thing, and it brings up a thought: first of all, if you're going to go with a publisher that provides ARCS or the first 20 copies free, then find your reviewers and send it off to them. IF you are through a small publisher and you must purchase your own copies, I would set a budget for marketing NOW! I didn't know to do that and I've spent so much on sending people swag (stuff we all get). Ugh...

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Sometimes people will say, "I want to review your book, how much is it? I will also purchase one to give away." While many will say, "Could you please donate a copy for giveaways?" I usually giveaway ebooks! But during the holidays I was feeling mighty generous and agreed to doing many hardcopy giveaways...

If I were you, say something like this if it's something you feel comfortable with, "Sure, I'd love for you to review it, but as of now, I'm only providing ecopies. I would like if you could please post your review on Goodreads, Amazon, Barnes and Nobles" (where ever your book is at). If it's no where yet, i would hold off a bit.

BUT! I would first give this person a short summary of your book and say, "Is this something you'll enjoy reading?" You do NOT want to send your baby who hates your genre and only loves historicals. Make SURE they enjoy that genre first. another thing is to start looking for published authors who will endorse your book--not someone like your neighbor who may only have credentials in plumbing. LOL

So that is the end of my reply...

If you're an aspiring author, it doesn't hurt to create a plan now! What do you think yours will look like? How have you been handling review requests?

My #AtoZChallenge Short Cut

2012-02-01T00:00:00.000-07:00

Okay, I've been thinking about all the things that made it easy for me to keep up with this fabulous Challenge last year. I need simplicity because of the shortage of time I have with four demanding kids underfoot. As a mom, I tend to find short cuts and augment my time. Aside from exposing my secret, here's another thing to add to its ease (and I hope it helps you too!)

First, I open my list of A to Z bloggers. Going down the list, and by hovering my mouse over each blogger link with my left button down, I drag it up to the browser tab. Do that for as many bloggers as you plan to visit that day/session. Now, I whip out my timer and set it for fifteen minutes, so that's fifteen blogs for me. Yes, it takes me a minute per blog--I don't frivol away my time because it's precious to me!

Important: Do not hit "publish" for any of your comments until after your timer rings. After it goes off, then go back and publish all your comments.

Note: For the pop-up window comments requiring the anti-spam code--you do not need to hit "publish", rather, just hit enter. (A time saver thing I've learned).

Do you have any blogging short cuts you'd like to share with us?

this post has been updated

Welcome to the 2012 #AtoZChallenge

2012-01-30T00:00:00.001-07:00

Welcome to the 2012 A to Z Blogging Challenge--the fastest way to make friends and sharpen your blogging skills! Starts April 1st, sign up with the Linky below. Questions? No problem, go here!

I learned how to write short, snappy, yet interesting posts from last year's challenge! Because there are many, many bloggers out there who are signing up and they don't have too much time to linger with a single blog, so I pushed myself to making it this way. It's really a growing experience and you'll love it!

Welcome the hosts--you may visit any time our blogs for fresh updates or news flashes, or simply click on the badge above for our direct site!

Tossing It Out (Arlee Bird)

Amlokiblogs (Damyanti Biswas)

Alex J. Cavanaugh (Alex J. Cavanaugh)

Life is Good (Tina Downey)

Cruising Altitude 2.0 (DL Hammons)

Retro-Zombie (Jeremy Hawkins)

The Warrior Muse (Shannon Lawrence)

The QQQE (Matthew MacNish)

Author Elizabeth Mueller (Elizabeth Mueller)

Pearson Report (Jenny Pearson)

No Thought 2 Small (Konstanz Silverbow)

Breakthrough Blogs (Stephen Tremp)
Coming Down the Mountain: A Writer's blog (Karen Jones Gowan)

Read my survival guide here.

Enter your name if you'd like to join the wild ride! Hope to see you around. ;)

Please help spread the word by simply tweeting, +1, or Facebooking below! Thank you!

My Accidental Direction

2012-01-27T00:00:00.000-07:00

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I talked about the confusing directions we can take our books as debut authors, I'll share with you some of mine.

I'm stumbling along my maze, trying to figure my way around.

Do I accept every request for others to review my book?

Do I accept invitations for group book tours?

Do I accept every giveaway request for Darkspell?

How do I set up my website? How many social medias should I join, and how do I keep up with them all?

Do I accept every invitation for public appearances?

Do I accept every request for book reviews?

Do I accept every request for critiques?

Do I accept every invitation for promo sights?

How do I handle negative reviews?

How do I handle comments in favor for my book? Is it possible to turn them into a sale, if so, how?

I didn't know that too much self-promotion is annoying to many people until a few months ago! What's a happy medium?

Oh no! It seems like my book isn't selling, what can I do? When is it time for me to decide that I've done my best and emotionally move on without giving up?

How do I go about setting up book signings since my publisher is small enough that I need to arrange them myself?

Since my books aren't in brick & mortar stores, how do I handle potential sales (when someone says they want to buy my book)?

Questions Questions, so many questions!

There are times when I feel so overcome by which direction to take--and since I'm such a newbie at this, I've hardly been turning down any invitation or request! You can imagine my workload--and this doesn't count outside book life! EEEEP!

Then my husband hears how overwhelmed I am and then he started singing this song (keeping in mind that I'm a published author and how many are striving for that goal):

Even though I've had a marketing plan before my book was sold, I wasn't prepared for the entourage of surprises that come after, for how would a debut author know? I wonder if it's more of the same with the second, third, fourth book? Have you whipped up a marketing plan for when your book is sold? If you're published, how has the path been like for you?

Choosing a Direction . . .

2012-01-25T00:00:00.000-07:00

. . . to take your book.

You'll notice the past several posts have been about my being a debut author.

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As a debut author, I feel very much like a teenager right out of high school. Lucky the ones who have counselors and parents and mentors who care. They knew what to expect, but here comes the great big world and you feel like a kid in a candy store. All this freedom!

Well, I kinda feel like that now. There are so many directions to choose from, yet I don't know which one! If I ask another debut author, it's like a blind man leading another blind man--we are at the same exact starting point!

So I've asked authors who have a few books out and share with them my confusion. I've had some say, "Oh, yeah, I remember doing that!"

Doh!

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Even with a career in books, I haven't strayed far from a starting point. Without a mentor, a debut author is sorta alone because not many established authors discuss those early awkward days--not on Facebook, not on Blogger, no where.

So, I'm here to share with you my successes and woes together.

My advice is to hook up with established authors you feel comfortable with asking away all your greenie questions!

Do you have an action plan? If so, care to share it with us? If you have more than one book, how did you deal with the teenie blues as a debut author?

Blood and Tears and Joy

2012-01-23T00:00:00.000-07:00

I knew that getting my book published would change my life, but I didn't know in what way.

The first thing that hit me was a bad case of vertigo and nausea as soon as TreasureLine wanted Darkspell, my YA paranormal romance novel. I slammed the panic button and requested some more time before I sent it. I'm one lucky gal because my publisher is a real sweetheart. She consented and I deleted about 8,000 words; that's about 6 hours worth of writing gone.

As a writer, you never know when that agent/publisher will say yes. Your manuscript must be ready to the very minute!

I've always wanted to do my own chapter illustrations, but had forgotten all about it after I sent my baby off for editing. I emailed my publisher and asked her what she thought if I illustrated each chapter. She said it was a great idea if I wanted to do that. Over the course of a week and 117 hours worth of time, I completed 39 illustrations.

After a long nail-biting wait, the editor sent a marked up Darkspell for me to work on. When I was done, I had to wait for another long period of time. What to do now? After working day in and day out nonstop for a few months for Darkspell's perfection, this sudden bout of nothingness left me feeling out of place.

Then the thought hit me. Marketing. I could start marketing my book. I hunted down an author pal of mine and asked him how he handled pre-ordering. I tinkered with PayPal and slowly updated my website.

Is your head spinning yet?

There's so much work involved in getting a book published, but one thing's for sure, I couldn't have done all this without the moral support of other writers! Not only that, but I have the joy of knowing that I've finally reached my life's dream.

Would you like for me to share something fun?

From the author's portfolio, never before seen footage:

my 12 year-old son

my 15 year-old daughter

Equals

Chapter 15 illustration

FuN fAcT: the cover model is my 12 year-old son manipulated by moi to look 17!

Elizabeth Mueller Website (find all 39 chapter illustrations!)

Elizabeth Mueller Blog

Elizabeth On Twitter
Elizabeth On Facebook
Darkspell on Smashwords
Darkspell on Goodreads
Amazon Kindle
Read Darkspell here!

Ready, Get set . . .

2012-01-20T00:00:00.000-07:00

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Survive!

A trusted friend comes to you and says, "Well, you're pretty familiar with astronomy, right?"

You nod your head. "Of course I am. I've only been studying the subject for twenty, maybe ten years?" You don't want to sound like a space geek.

Your friend smiles and says, "Welcome to our space expedition program, then!" He hands you the keys to his magnificent spaceship and says, "I'll see you later. Make it count."

Okay, you think, what do I do now?

That's the question. What do I do now? That's how it's like being a debut author. What now? What now . . . I've been told by a good friend that expectations kill. They do, don't they? I expect my book to sell well. It doesn't. I expect everyone to love it. They don't. I expect to become Ms. Popular in my town. I'm still invisible.

I know, this sounds so silly, but it's the misconception I had as an aspiring writer. Being published doesn't change very much unless it's a miracle!

I still don't know what to expect and every author I've spoken to--the nondebut ones--say, "Oh, yeah, I remember going through that. Don't worry, it'll get better [because you'll learn from your mistakes]." Just like real life.

*sigh*

I just thought I'd share my experience with you, so you'd know that I'm not walking the yellow brick road.

I'd love to hear your expectations? Go on, I promise not to snicker or roll my eyes. <3

Refreshing Honesty, a 3 star Review

2012-01-18T00:00:00.000-07:00

You'd think when a book gets a 3 star review, someone's bashing it, right?

Because I know the person who gave Darkspell the review, I had a creeping feeling she'd rate it a 3 star, I don't have an explanation for that, either. So I clicked on her link for my Book Tour and headed over to her website.

Lo and behold! I saw her 3 star at the top. I smiled because I knew I was right! Yay! Not very many people are happy about that, really. But guess what? Anastasia wrote a FaNtAsTiC review! I know that my book is too gushy for her (she loves battling elves), so you can tell how flattered I am with her perception as well as her objectivity.

Even when you don't favor a particular book, it doesn't mean you must bash the poor thing. I read Star Scout Rising, a full-blown science fiction read, and I have to admit it was one of the hardest books I've had to read since my heart is in romance, but I was positive and found joy in the characters and plot and adventures rather than pick it apart.

How do you review a book that isn't your cup of tea?

Find out what a fantastic review, Anastasia wrote for my debut novel here and why I LOVE this 3 star review!

My A - Z Blogging Challenge Secret: How I Survived

2012-01-16T00:00:00.000-07:00

I must confess that this was truly challenging! Like with any huge project, I planned ahead of time. I thought of a theme I'd stick by through out the entire month and created a list per alphabet letter on a spiral bound notebook, writing as many words that started with each letter.

example:

A: anaphora, alphabet, allegory, artist

so on so forth till I reached Z.

(sneak a peek at my posts here!)

Next, I went down my list and circled one idea per letter to post about it. I wrote my entire alphabet post in two days a month ahead of time. Why? Because I wanted to enjoy visiting everyone's fabulous blogs and leave comments on as many as I could per day!

Since we aren't posting on Sundays (but for April 1st for 2012) it gives us a fabulous opportunity to catch up on the comment love!

And that's my secret. What's yours?

Expectations Kill

2012-01-11T00:00:00.000-07:00

We are all familiar with disappointment. Disappointment is born when there is hope or expectation. Yes, we all need hope to keep moving forward, but I believe that expectation is a whole lot steeper than hope.

I've lost my sights on why I've become published. I became obsessed with marketing my book to the point that I was losing my soul to it! I'm with a very small publisher and it's up to us to promote our own books. That has been a struggle with me because I have a family to tend to as well, and then there's real life that comes with it.

It became so bad that I've had to force myself to take a break for a whole week straight. I found that I had SO much more time open wide for reading, being me, and playing with my kids. I really enjoyed it.

It's been two days since I've returned to my writing career. This time, it's different. I've set aside specific times in my day so that I don't let things rule my life again.

As an aspiring author, I had expectations for my book--but that's like saying a little girl expects to live happily ever after once finding her knight in shining armor.

I had no idea what I was really in for--being published is simply the business side of writing.

Being published doesn't mean all your problems melt away and you're set for life--it's like with any other career out there: you still have to work at it but wisely! You don't stay at your current job 17 hours a day, Monday through Thursday, do you? It's so easy to let that happen with your book because you love it, you're home doing it and it slowly cooks you alive if you're not watching the water boil!

Just like with any relationship gone sour, I need to remember why I started writing. So I'm getting back to the basics: Discovering the pure joy in writing, and remembering the love of sharing my heart's work.

As a rule, authors never talk about the hardships of their careers, and it makes me wonder why because it is there. What struggles are you facing now?

A to Zing!

2012-01-06T00:00:00.000-07:00

Do you know your A, B, C's?

My experience with last years A-Z blogging challenge was a total blast! I learned to write concise posts, shrink time, and make tons of friends!

I enjoyed it so much that I'm now part of the A to Z Team, yay!

See what the buzz is about and click on the badge below, follow our shiny new site for updates.

Guess what? I'd love to introduce you to our lovely team for 2012! We will announce occasional A to Z news in stereo so that you don't miss a thing. They are a wonderful group of friends that I know you'd love to follow if you aren't already!

Tossing It Out (Arlee Bird)

Amlokiblogs (Damyanti Biswas)

Alex J. Cavanaugh (Alex J. Cavanaugh)

Life is Good (Tina Downey)

Cruising Altitude 2.0 (DL Hammons)

Retro-Zombie (Jeremy Hawkins)

The Warrior Muse (Shannon Lawrence)

The QQQE (Matthew MacNish)

Author Elizabeth Mueller (Elizabeth Mueller)

Pearson Report (Jenny Pearson)

No Thought 2 Small (Konstanz Silverbow)

Breakthrough Blogs (Stephen Tremp)
Coming Down the Mountain: A Writer's blog (Karen Jones Gowan)

Interested in signing up yet? Not sure? Okay, if you'd love to see my A to Z Challange, click on this link here and see what the fuzz is about. Go on, you'll love what I've done! But if you're still not sure, That's fine, you have until January 30th to sign up. Think about it!

Here is the link again so you can bookmark it: http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/
Don't be shy and drop by our new site every so often for updates and stuff!

What do you think, are you going to join? What are your goals for 2012?

Darkspell Tour, Book Fair and 3 Winners!

2012-01-02T00:00:00.000-07:00

post has been updated!

Alex Stormhold is sworn to protect Winter from the darkness that hunts her, an ordinary girl who believes she's nobody special.

She wrong.

Winter unlocks a horrifying secret and must make a choice that could cost the lives of the ones she loves.

Darkspell is a YA Paranormal Romance.

Please join my Book Tour this month!

January 1 Ana at BookSpark

January 2 Jewel at Jewel's World

January 4 Konstanz at No Thought 2 Small

January 6 Cassie at Shadow Kisses
January 9 Connie at Connie Bookreviews

January 11 Anastasia at Labotomy of a Writer

January 13 Katrina at Page Flipperz
January 14 Amy at The Ramblings of Amy

January 17 Debbie at Debbie's Inkspectations

January 18 Tanya at All Things books

January 20 Tiffany at Trh87Books

January 23 Jeannie at The Character Therapist

January 27 Sheila at Why Not? Because I Said So!

Read Darkspell here!

Did you find a newKindle, Nook, or iPad under the Christmas tree? Browse the Indie Book Fair and find a new ebook to break in that reader!

These great new bookswere released Nov 2011-Feb 2012 by Indie authors, priced right so that taking achance on a new author doesn’t have to break your wallet. (Check out my previous Internet Book Fair for other great Indie finds.)

[Indie = self-publishedor small-publisher, for the purposes of this post, because no matter how we’re published, we’re all in this together, trying to get theword out about our books]

Note: Links are givenfor Amazon, but most authors publish across all e-book formats. Clickon the author’s name for additional purchasing options, includingpaper copies.

For Your Browsing Pleasure

Contemporary (Adult)

Build a Man by Talli Roland (Chick Lit)

Slaveto the rich, rude and deluded, cosmetic surgery receptionist Serenity Hollandlongs for the day she's a high-flying tabloid reporter. Unfortunately, everypitch she sends out disappears like her clients' liposuctioned fat, never to beseen again. Then she meets Jeremy Ritchie -- the hang-dog man determined to beBritain's Most Eligible Bachelor by making himself over from head to toe andeverything in between -- giving Serenity a story no editor couldresist. With London's biggest tabloid on board and her very own columntracking Jeremy's progress from dud to dude, Serenity is determined to be asuccess, even going undercover to gain intimate access to Jeremy's life. Butwhen Jeremy's surgery goes drastically wrong and Serenity is ordered to coverall the car-crash goriness, she must decide how far she really will go for herdream job. $0.99on Amazon

TheGolden Sky by ElisaHirsch (Memoir)

Thenight I met Cade I never would’ve thought that two years later, after wewere homeless street musicians in Hawaii, we would have a little girl andanother baby on the way. Our son was born with the type of birthdefects that make televangelists cringe. The “death home” gave him a reallynice funeral, the kind I’d never wished to attend. We lost it after that,totally cemented in our grief. Cade got into drugs, joined a rockand roll band, and I kicked him out of the house. That was how I met: Earl(an old man and unlikely best friend), the “big sag” (a middle aged womanwho still flashed folks), Todda (the stripper next door), and Chris(a cowboy who fell in love with me). It wasn’t until I killed a rogueskunk, and my daughter nearly choked on a fry, that I gave my husbandanother chance. But could our marriage recover from the death of ourson? $2.99 onAmazon

SomeoneElse’s Fairytale by E.M. Tippetts (Contemporary Romance)

JasonVanderholt is the hottest actor under thirty with legions of screaming fans.Chloe Winters is a college student who hasn't gotten around to watching most ofhis movies. When they meet by chance, he is smitten, but it justisn't her fairytale. In fact, it could be her worst nightmare as her past,attracted by the bright lights of the media, comes back to haunt her. $0.99 on Amazon

Historical Romance(Adult)

The Duke’s Divorce by Anne Gallagher Available late January 2012

Asimple trip to the Scottish Highlands finds the Duke of Cantin with a bride hedoes not want. With her impeccable beauty and fiery disposition, Fionatakes Society by storm. As their prearranged divorce proceedings drawnear, can Fiona change his mind? Check author's website.

Literary Fiction

String Bridge by Jessica Bell

Greek cuisine, smog anddomestic drudgery was not the life Australian musician, Melody, was expectingwhen she married a Greek music promoter and settled in Athens, Greece. Keen toplay in her new shoes, though, Melody trades her guitar for a 'proper' careerand her music for motherhood. That is, until she can bear it no longer andplots a return to the stage—and the person she used to be. However, theobstacles she faces along the way are nothing compared to the tragedy thatawaits ... $6.99on Amazon ALSO: Music Sample!

Mystery

Sherwood Ltd. by Anne R. Allen

Sherwood. The name immediatelyconjures up images of Richard Greene, Michael Praed and Russell Crowe. Or maybethat sly fox in the Disney version. Only, in Anne R. Allen's latest rom-commystery the fox is a coyote and there's no Robin Hood. Or is there? In herusual inimitable fashion Allen peels back the layers, one hilarious subplotafter another, until you just never know what's real and what's not. Ratherlike the Robin Hood legend. When the Manners Doctor, Camilla Randall, fliesinto Robin Hood airport with a suitcase in one hand and a book contract in theother she thinks she's leaving all her problems behind and is about to start anew life. If you look very carefully you may just spot the Sheriff ofNottingham, Maid Marian and even Little John hidden away. But as for Robin Hoodhimself... You'll just have to read it and find out. $2.99on Amazon

Short Stories andAnthologies

The Initiate (CloudProphet Trilogy) by Megg Jensen (YA Fantasy)

Overa thousand years ago, the gods left Eloh's people and took their magic withthem. To win back their favor, her people sacrifice ten female initiates everyten years. No has ever survived. There has never been a Chosen One. Forced intobecoming an initiate, Eloh will try to find a way to beat the odds, stay withher boyfriend, and survive the fires that threaten to consume her. But will herlack of faith in the gods and her disbelief in their magic doom her to apainful death? $0.99 on Amazon

Eight by Karly Kirkpatrick (YA Paranormal Short Story Collection)

Prepareto be thrilled and chilled by Kirkpatrick's eight short tales in EIGHT. Theseeight stories, while short, pack a big punch. There are demon spirits, zombies,and even some human baddies. Each story comes complete with author'scommentary. It also includes the previously unreleased short Grenades. $0.99on Amazon

{CoverComingSoon} In His Eyes by The Indelibles (YA Anthology) - Available February 14th

Justin time for Valentines Day, The Indelibles bring you a one-of-a-kind youngadult anthology! Twenty original short stories, all from the point of view ofour favorite male characters - some are old flames from our novels and somewere dreamed up especially for this anthology. Let these imminently crushable,swoon-worthy guys show you what romance looks like – in his eyes. Add to GoodreadsTBR

The contributors to IN HIS EYES includeaward winners, frequent “Top 100” placers, and hot 2011 debut authors: S.R. Wells, C.K.Bryant, Elle Strauss, Susan Kaye Quinn, Jessie Harrell, Magan Vernon, LisaNowak, Heather McCorkle, RaShelle Workman, Ali Cross, Karen Amanda Hooper, CoryPutman Oakes, Laura Pauling, Stacey Wallace Benefiel, Sarra Cannon, Katie Klein,Cheri Lasota

Transcendent: Tales ofthe Paranormal byLani Woodland, Melonie Piper, Rita Webb, Wendy Swore, Melanie Marks, Heather McCubbin and Evan Joseph (YA Anthology)

Discover the secrets of a siren, fly with a hawkgirl over the mountains of Montana, and flee supernatural party-crashers as thedécor comes to life in this magical journey through paranormal stories. Alongthe way, watch for ghosts in a haunted house, or ride through the moonlightwith a stranger. Save a comatose boy who has lost his soul, and don’t forget tobring your garlic and wolfsbane—you never know when the shadows will snag you. Transcendentincludes eight stories of magic, love, death, and choice by some of the newestnames in young adult fiction. $0.99on Amazon

Young Adult

Open Minds by Susan Kaye Quinn (Paranormal/Science Fiction)

When everyone readsminds, a secret is a dangerous thing to keep. Sixteen-year-old Kira Moore is a zero, someonewho can’t read thoughts or be read by others. Zeros are outcasts who can’t betrusted, leaving her no chance with Raf, a regular mindreader and the bestfriend she secretly loves. When she accidentally controls Raf’s mind and nearlykills him, Kira tries to hide her frightening new ability from her family andan increasingly suspicious Raf. But lies tangle around her, and she’s draggeddeep into a hidden world of mindjackers, where having to mind control everyoneshe loves is just the beginning of the deadly choices before her. $2.99 on Amazon

Bound by C.K. Bryant (Paranormal Romance)

When a photo shoot endsin tragedy, Kira discovers her best friend, Lydia,has been keeping a secret.Knowing the truth, and accepting it, will change Kira’s life forever and thrusther into a world of ancient curses, magical objects, and savage enemies. Whathappens next will challenge everything Kira knows about her world, herself andthe shape-shifting warrior she’s falling in love with. No longer the timidmouse her mother accused her of being, but a woman who finds the mental andphysical strength to endure and survive. $3.99 on Amazon

Become by Ali Cross (YA Urban Fantasy)

Sixteen-year oldDesolation Black wants nothing more than to stay in Hell where it’s cold andlonely and totally predictable. Instead, she’s sent back to Earth where sheBecomes the evil she despises and the good she always feared. When Desi isforced to embrace her inner demon, she assumes her Choice has been made—thatshe has no hope of being anything other than what her father, Lucifer, hascreated her to be. What she doesn’t count on, is a reason to want tochange—something she’s never had before—a friend. $3.99on Amazon

Exiled by RaShelle Workman (YA SF Romance)

Worldsdivided them. Chance brought them together. Only love will save them.
An alien princess exiled to Earth. An arrogant boy. One week to get back to herplanet or she'll die. And, her only chance for survival? She must help the boyfind his soul mate.
Piece of cake! $0.99on Kindle

The Secret of SpruceKnoll by Heather McCorkle (Urban Fantasy)

Followingthe tragic death of her parents, Eren Donovan moves to Spruce Knollto live with an aunt she’s never met. Little does Eren know the entiretown of Spruce Knoll is filled with “channelers”—a magical group ofpeople who immigrated to the small Colorado town when theywere driven out of their own lands. Channelers are tied to the fateof the world. As the world slowly dies, so do they—and they alonehave the power to stop the destruction of Earth. Soon, Eren learnsshe not only lives among them, but she is one. When she meets local boy Aiden,his charm convinces her that being a channeler may not be all bad though. $4.99 onAmazon

Destined by Jessie Harrell (Retelling)

WhenPsyche receives a prophecy gone horribly wrong, she learns that even the mostbeautiful girl in Greece can have a hideous future. Her fate? Fall in love withthe one creature even the gods fear. As she feels herself slipping closer intothe arms of the prophecy, Psyche must choose between the terrifyingly tendertouch she feels almost powerless to resist and the one constant she's come toexpect out of life: you cannot escape what is destined. $0.99 on Amazon

Darkspell by Elizabeth Mueller (Paranormal Romance)

Winter Sky believes sheis everything ordinary . . . until she is kissed by Alex Stormhold. Asseer of Stormhold Coven, Alex is sworn to be Winter’s protector against thedarkness that hunts her. Violently thrust into a magickal realm shealways thought impossible, she stumbles upon a disturbing secret of her own.Will love prove thicker than magick? $3.99 on Amazon

Untraceable by S. R. Johannes (Thriller)

Grace has lived in theSmokies all her life, patrolling with her forest ranger father who taught herabout wildlife, tracking, and wilderness survival. When her dad goes missing on a routinepatrol, Grace refuses to believe he’s dead and fights the town authorities,tribal officials, and nature to find him. One day, while out tracking clues,Grace is rescued from danger by Mo, a hot guy with an intoxicating accent and asecret. As her feelings between him and her ex-boyfriend get muddled, Gracetravels deep into the wilderness to escape and find her father. Along the way, Grace learns terrible secrets that sever relationships andlives. Soon she’s enmeshed in a web of conspiracy, deception, and murder. Andit’s going to take a lot more than a compass and a motorcycle (named Lucifer)for this kick-butting heroine to save everything she loves. $0.99on Amazon

Rival Demons (Book 5 ofthe Peachville High Demons Series) by Sarra Cannon (Paranormal Romance) Available January 20th

After narrowly escaping death atthe hands of the Order of Shadows, Harper finds herself thrust into the strangeand beautiful world of the shadow demons. But crossing through the portaldoesn't mean she is safe. The Order of Shadows is determined to bring her homeand transfer the Prima line to the Harris family. They send their most vicioushunters after Harper. Hunters who will not stop until they have found theirprey. Determined to keep her safe, Jackson takes her deep into an undergroundworld filled with dangers of its own. Here, Harper will begin a journey thatwill teach her more about herself and her own path than she ever imaginedpossible. Addto Goodreads TBR

The Legend of VictorStandish: Under a Voodoo Moon by Roland D. Yeomans (Urban Fantasy/Romance)

Can love kill? Yes... if you love a ghoul who hungers for your flesh only slightly less than shedoes your heart. Yet to the lonely street orphan Victor Standish, who hasrisked his life for a meal, to find love (even for one magical French Quarternight) is worth dying in the morning. $2.99 on Amazon All profits go to the Salvation Army.

Getting Sideways (Book 2 in the Full Throttle Series) by Lisa Nowak (Contemporary)

Getting shipped off to live with hisuncle Race was the best thing that ever happened to fifteen-year-old Cody. Thena wreck at the speedway nearly ruined everything. Cody’s making every effort toget his life back on track—writing for the school paper, searching for theperfect girlfriend, and counting the days until he gets his drivers’license—but there’s no escaping the nightmares that haunt him. Achance to build his own car seems like the perfect distraction. Until Codyrealizes he’ll have to live up to Race’s legendary status. But that’s the leastof his worries, considering he doesn’t have his dad’s permission. All he has todo is the impossible: keep Race from discovering his lie until he can convince his dad that racing’s safe. Yeah, sure. That’llbe easy. $3.99on Amazon

Tangled Tides by Karen Hooper (Sea Monster Memoirs)

YaraJones doesn’t believe in sea monsters—until she becomes one. When a hurricanehits her island home and she wakes up with fins, Yara finds herself tangled upin an underwater world of mysterious merfolk and secretive selkies. Both sidesbelieve Yara can save them by fulfilling a broken promise and opening thesealed gateway to their realm, but they are battling over how it should bedone. The selkies want to take her life. The merfolk want something far moreprecious. Treygan, the stormy-eyed merman who turned Yara mer, will stop atnothing and sacrifice everything to protect his people—until he falls for Yara.The tides turn as Yara fights to save herself, hundreds of sea creatures, andthe merman who has her heart. She could lose her soul in the process—or shemight open the gateway to a love that’s deeper than the oceans. $4.99on Amazon

Here by Denise Grover Swank (SF Romance)

Sixteenyear old Julia Phillips buries herself in guilt after killing her best friendMonica in a car accident. Julia awoke in the hospital with a broken leg, a newtalent for drawing and false memories of the accident, in which she dies andMonica lives. The doctors attribute this to her head injury, but no one canexplain how a bracelet engraved with her name ended up at the scene of theaccident. A bracelet no one has ever seen before. Classmate Evan Whittaker paidJulia no attention before the accident, let alone after. Now suddenly he’svolunteering to tutor her and offering to drive her home. She can't ignore thathis new obsession started after his two-day disappearance last week and that hewears a pendant she’s been drawing for months. When the police show up onenight looking for Evan, he begs Julia to run with him, convincing her thatMonica is still alive. Julia agrees to go, never guessing where he’s reallyfrom. $2.99 on Amazon

The Veil by CoryPutman Oakes (Paranormal Romance)

Seventeen-year-oldAddison Russell is in for a shock when she discovers that she can see theinvisible world of the Annorasi. Suddenly, nothing is as it appears tobe—the house she lives in, the woman who raised her, even the most beautifulboy in town all turn out to be more than what they seem. And when thisstrange new world forces Addy to answer for a crime that was committed longago, by parents she has never known, she has no choice but to trust Luc, themysterious Annorasi who has been sent to protect her. Or so he says . . .$7.99on Amazon

Embrace by Cherie Colyer (Paranormal Romance)

Madisonis familiar enough with change, and she hates everything about it. Change tookher long-term boyfriend away from her. It caused one of her friends to suddenlyhate her. It’s responsible for the death of a local along with a host of othermysterious happenings. But when Madison meets a hot new guy, she thinks herluck is about to improve. Madison is instantly drawn to the handsome andintriguing Isaac Addington. She quickly realizes he’s a guy harboring a secret,but she’s willing to risk the unknown to be with him. Her world really spins out of control, however, whenher best friend becomes delusional, seeing things that aren’t there anddesperately trying to escape their evil. When the doctors can’t find theanswers, Madison seeks her own. Nothing can prepare her for whatshe is about to discover. $6.99on Amazon

Onyx Talisman by Brenda Pandos (Paranormal Romance)

Unrest stirs deep in Scotts Valley. Filled withuncertainty, Julia anxiously awaits Nicholas’ return. Phil, holds the pieces ofJulia’s fragile psyche together, secretly hoping Nicholas stays away forever.But Alora secretly conspires to reclaim her talisman and strip Julia ofeverything she holds dear. Littledo they know, a war is coming and more than one vampire would like to see thePrince of Vampires overthrown. Can Julia bargain with fate? Find out how it allends in this explosive grand finale of The Talisman Trilogy. $3.99 on Amazon

Howto Date an Alien by Magan Vernon (Science Fiction)

Highschool senior Alex Bianchi's estranged father gets her an internship at CirceOperations Center to pad her college applications. But Circe isn't your typicalmilitary base. It's an alien-run operation center and not all of the aliens arefriendly, especially the one that tries to kill Alex on her first day. WhenAce, a dark-eyed Caltian, enters and saves the day, she can't help but be drawnto him. Can these star-crossed lovers survive when they're on the brink ofintergalactic war? $2.99on Amazon

FireseedOne by Catherine Stine (Science Fiction/Thriller)

Fireseed One is ajourney into a tricked-out near-future earth where 18 year-old Varik hasinherited a vast ocean farm, following the suspicious drowning of his Marinebiologist father. When Marisa, a beautiful and devious terrorist, destroys theworld's food source, Varik is forced to travel to a lethal hotzone, teemingwith dangerous nomads and a strange cult to search for a magical hybrid plantthat may not even exist. The catch? He must take Marisa along, the only personwho seems to know way, way too much key information. $2.99 on Amazon

The Missing by M.A. Leslie (Paranormal)

Eight-year-old, Ethan Doyle is just a normal kid whose biggest problem in life was to fight for the attention of his busy parents from his older twin siblings. But, after his aunt and uncle tragically die, his family takes in his teenage cousin, Kelsey, and moves to a spooky old, manor house in a new town. At first, everything seems fine, but when he begins to see and speak to a spirit named Lucas, his biggest problem becomes, just staying alive. Lucas was ten years old when the spirits of the house came to him and asked him for help setting their spirits free. Unfortunately, he never made the deadline and as a result the spirits took him and made him a part of the house as well. As he soon finds out, the only way he can save his own soul is to save the souls of the missing boys in the house. With his own deadline in place, Ethan enlists the help of his cousin Kelsey to solve the twenty-year-old mystery of THE MISSING. $0.99 on Amazon

Princess Kandake by Stephanie Jefferson (Fantasy) Available February 1, 2012

In Nubia a woman can be whatever she chooses. At 14,Kandake knows exactly what she chooses...Prime Warrior of Nubia. But hergrandmother has said that she will follow her father on the throne. Refusing toabandon her warrior dreams she continues to train. When her brother is kidnapped,Kandake learns she must be both queen and warrior to win his release! See Author's Website

Middle Grade

Blink of a Dragon by Eisley Jacobs (Fantasy)

Discovering she’s connected to dragons is onething, but when another dragon is caught hanging out in the fifth grade, Meia thinksthings couldn’t get any worse. Is she ever wrong! Trouble is brewing in thecosmos and Deglan believes this new dragon holds the answers, but his hopes arecrushed when the leader of the exiled dark dragons ambushes them. The fate ofthe dragons and possibly the whole world falls to Deglan and Meia as theysearch for the only creature powerful
enough to send the dark dragons back into theabyss. What they encounter along the way makes the adventure worth fightingfor. $6.99Paperback preorder, Amazon

Now for the WINNERS!

I'd like to thank everyone one who danced with me for my Debutante Ball, you made Darkspell's entrance into society a pleasurable one!

I have two winners: my lovely international and local--Yay!

Are you ready?

CoNgRaTuLaTiOnS, Old Kitty from Ten Lives and Second Chances, you've won Darkspell's e-copy and poster!

*cOnGrAtUlAtIoNs, Ashley, you've won the signed copy of Darkspell and swag!

Congratulations, John Dwyer, you've won Transcendent Tales of the Paranormal!

Thank you and Happy New Year!

*Another winner will be chosen if I don't hear back from Ashley soon!

Win Free Darkspell Gift Pack!

2011-12-31T00:00:00.000-07:00

What's better than a signed and numbered book of my debut novel? A tote, Winter's necklace, a Darkspell pen, a handful of bookmarks, the author's favorite nail polish color, and a tote to go with it! Oh, and that's not all, I will throw in Darkspell's e-book as a thank you for dancing with me!

Click here to enter, hurry, contest ends

ToNiGhT 12:00 EDT!

Be my groupie for the Darkspell Book Tour!

January 1 Ana at BookSpark

January 2 Jewel at Jewel's World

January 4 Konstanz at No Thought 2 Small

January 6 Cassie at Shadow Kisses

January 11 Anastasia at Labotomy of a Writer

January 14 Amy at The Ramblings of Amy

January 16 Michelle at

January 17 Debbie at Debbie's Inkspectations

January 18 Tanya at All Things books

January 20 Tiffany at Trh87Books

January 23 Jeannie at The Character Therapist
January 25 Connie at Connie Bookreviews

Read Darkspell free!

Book Review: Transcendent: Tales of the Paranormal

2011-12-30T00:00:00.000-07:00

Transcendent: Tales of the Paranormal

by Lani Woodland, Melonie Piper, Rita Webb, Wendy Swore, Melanie Marks, Heather McCubbin and Evan Joseph

Back Cover: Discover the secrets of a siren, fly with a hawk girl over the mountains of Montana, and flee supernatural party-crashers as the décor comes to life in this magical journey through paranormal stories.

Along the way, watch for ghosts in a haunted house, or ride through the moonlight with a stranger. Save a comatose boy who has lost his soul, and don’t forget to bring your garlic and wolfsbane—you never know when the shadows will snag you.

Transcendent includes eight stories of magic, love, death, and choice by some of the newest names in young adult fiction.

My Review:

Each story was made alive by the wonderful talent of every author. I couldn't put my Kindle down as I read the stories aloud to my children, ages ranging from 9 to 15, and now they insist on rereading their favorite picks of short stories on their own.

The characters came to life, the storylines shared in rich detail that swept me into each world! The only sad thing about this book is that I wish that they were longer than short stories. If you want a cozy thrill with a flashlight-under-the-covers, or a snuggle-up-with-your-Kindle, I recommend this book!

GiVeAwAy TiMe!
I'm excited to share this book with you guys! Just comment to win Transcendent's eBook--winner will be announced Monday, January 2nd!

Meet Anastasia V. Pergakis, my lovely guest!

2011-12-26T00:00:00.000-07:00

Today, the fabulous Anastasia is visiting my blog. I'm honored to have her here!

Elizabeth asked me to write about my journey to writing, somethingthat would be helpful to aspiring authors. As a warning, this post is going toget really dark for a moment, which might seem out of character for me as Iusually try to stay positive in my posts, but it'll get better toward the end Ipromise. And you might not understand at first what this has to do with myjourney to writing, but it will all be explained in the end, I promise.

To be helpful to aspiring authorsthat might be struggling with their writing, I'm going to tell you what keepsme motivated when times get tough.

So what motivates me to keep writing and not give up? Well, to answer that Ihave to take you back a few years to a sixteen year old girl trapped by alcoholand drug addiction. I couldn't function without a few vicodins or oxycodones tostart the day, a few drinks after school (okay a lot of drinks) and more pillsat night. The fact that I didn't stop my heart with this combination ofchemicals is beyond me.

You see, for a long time, I wanted to die. Literally. And Itried. I prayed every day for years that I would go to sleep and not wake up. Iwould be extremely upset that I woke up everyday, still trapped in the darknessthat had become my life.

I was so wrapped up in my own problems and simply justexisting for so many years, that I crushed people along my way. I tookadvantage of them, manipulated them to get what I wanted, used them and thenthrew them away. I know; I was not a very nice person at all.

I don't want to scare you too muchwith the horror stories of those ten years, so let's skip ahead to the goodpart.

I was sitting there in June of 2006 and realizing howutterly alone I was. I literally had nothing and no one. I cried for days. Fromguilt, from loneliness, from the pain I felt physically. I had two"friends" that attended AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) meetings. So I gavethem a call and asked if I could live with them (I was homeless at the time)and that I wanted to start going to meetings with them. I didn't believe eventhen, that I was an alcoholic, but I was so desperate to be rid of the guiltand pain I felt, that I was willing to try anything. They gladly accepted meinto their home and helped me get back on my feet. I'll be grateful to themeveryday for the rest of my life.

That was five and a half years ago.

I try to look at each day as a miracle - because it is. Byrights, I should have died many times over before I even reached my 22ndbirthday. I'll celebrate my 28th birthday in May.

So, what does all this have to do with my journey towriting? Well, a lot. During the darker times, I wrote twisted poetry and darkshort stories - many of which I will never share with the world. I wrote cutelittle poem and stories as a young child, too. About a year into my sobriety, Irealized that writing was the one thing I always had, that I always turned torelease pent up emotions. It's how I find myself, how I deal with stress. Itwas then I decided that writing was what I wanted to do for the rest of mylife, for my career.

If I am to impart some ounce of wisdom or inspiration toother authors from my story it's this:

Never. Give. Up.Ever. Your life, YOU, are important. What you have to say is important.Someone out there loves you, no matter what. It doesn't matter whether youbelieve it to be God, Jesus, or a person in your life. SOMEONE does love you.Don't quit on your dreams or yourself. You'll regret it. I was given a secondchance at my life 5 1/2 years ago. Not everyone gets that second chance. Chaseyour dreams and never, ever quit.

~ * ~ * ~

About Cleanse Fire

Cleanse Fire is a fantasy adventure novel, withedge-of-your-seat action. Epic battles, suspense, and a bit of romance too! Followthe Kinir Elite as they track down a traitor and find more than they bargainedfor.

**Portions of profits for this book are given to the WoundedWarrior Project**

Complete the mission,no matter what…

Captain Derac Vidor has served Kinir for nearly twentyyears. It’s his life, his blood. And then his Commander betrays everythingDerac holds dear. Now he has to focus on his own life and his team instead ofsaving the citizens of Kinir.

Treason is only thebeginning…

Fueled by rage, the team chases the source to theirCommander’s betrayal – a powerful wizard bent on revenge. The wizard seeks todestroy the Kinir Elite, in both mind and body. No place is safe, even amongtheir allies.

The past holds thekey…

Derac’s tragic past may be the key to saving the team. Butcan he face the gruesome nightmare in time?

Purchase Cleanse Fire

Join the Kinir Brigade by signing up for our newsletter! Getexclusive deals, access to special giveaways, and inside information about theseries!Join the Kinir Brigade now and receive the first five chapters in youremail! And don't forget to visit our Facebook Page and Website too!

~ * ~ * ~

I’m giving away an e-copy of Cleanse Fire! Leave a comment on this post to enter into the randomdrawing. I'll draw the names at the end of my tour, January 31, 2012. If you want more chances to wina copy, visit our website to follow our tour! The more comments you leave, themore chances you have to win!

All commenters will also be added to the drawing for achance to win a signed hard cover. Drawing for the hardcover will be on January 31, 2012, the end of my tour.

You can also get more chances to win by tweeting or postingon facebook! Just leave a link to the tweet or post in a comment below!

**All Winners will be announced on the Kinir Elite Websiteon February 1st**

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T23:10:00.000-07:00

This made me bawl. Literally. I had dinner on the stove and it cooked to a slow burn as I couldn't tear myself away! I LOVE how the producer focuses on Joseph's tenderness for the Son...

Have a Fabulous Christmas, my bloggie friends!

*HUGS*

I know my A, B, C's, next time won't you...?

2011-12-21T06:00:00.000-07:00

Click on this beautiful badge here to see what I have to say about last year's neck-lashing, friendship-building blogging challenge!

It was one memorable month, that's for sure!

Strong or Weak?

2011-12-19T00:00:00.000-07:00

I got this image off of Facebook.

There are contrasting heroines listed below.

Media has a powerful impact on humankind.

What kind of hero/ine are your books?

Have a Darkspell Christmas!

2011-12-16T00:00:00.001-07:00

(Bookcover doesn't really have a Santa hat on, I drew it in for FUN!)

I'm feeling the Givingmood of Christmas! I've decided to have a coloring contest--open to everyone! You can choose any of my illustrations from the following two links:

http://squigglebop.blogspot.com/2010/11/christmas-angels.html

http://squigglebop.blogspot.com/2011/12/christmas-fun-enjoy-them.html

Submit your entry by the 23rd via email (elizabeth.mueller.author[AT]gmail). Winner will be announced Christmas morning!

For US Winners: You will WIN a signed copy of Darkspell!
For International Winners: You will WIN an e-copy of Darkspell!

Read Darkspell here for FREE!

Debutante Ball, a Feast of Debut Authors

2011-12-12T00:00:00.000-07:00

Announcing Darkspell YA Paranormal Romance by Elizabeth Mueller!

Winter Sky believes she is everything ordinary . . . until she is kissed by Alex Stormhold.

As seer of Stormhold Coven, Alex is sworn to be Winter's protector against the darkness that hunts her. Violently thrust into a magickal realm she always thought impossible, she stumbles upon a disturbing secret of her own.

"Darkspell is one of those guilty pleasure books that keep you turning pages. Elizabeth Mueller tantalizes the reader with healthy doses of romance, mystery and magic unlike any other. The perfect read for anyone 13 and up who wants to curl up with a good book." SB Niccum, author of Veiled

"Elizabeth Mueller gives a great story, full of normal teen angst without tipping the scales to be annoying, she keeps up guessing, dropping nuggets for us throughout the story, but never tipping her hand. Combine that with the fantastic use of illustrations that give it almost a graphic novel feel as we read, and this is easily a five star read. I can’t wait to pick this up in paperback and you should too! Mueller is a great addition to the YA world and I can’t wait to see what comes next from this talented writer!" YA BookBabes

Pick up your very own copy of Darkspell, YA Paranormal Romance at Amazon,or your very own signed and numbered copy here for only $12.75 for Christmas! Read sample chapters here!

If I was sucked into Darkspell, I'd be Winter! She starts off as a happy-go-lucky teen who endures the tragedy of betrayal along with the death of her beloved friends, but she discovers a hidden secret that may save them all.

Every author wants their book turned into movie! I'd choose Amanda Seyfried as Winter!

source

Want more of Darkspell? Of course you do!

This is what you'll get just by leaving a comment--but wait!The more shout outs you do on Facebook, Twitter or where you hang,the more chances you get to win! Just let me know what you've done in this post! (one entry per shout out per day--YES, per day!)

Contest ends the 31st of December!*

All WINNERS will be announced at the end of the tour on January 2nd on respective author blog! (Unless otherwise noted.)

Want to win more book fun? Of course you do! Please follow the author names and December dates below! Good luck and don't forget to have FUN!

12 Elizabeth Mueller elizabethmueller.blogspot.com

13 Regan Guerra reganguerra.blogspot.com

14 Melissa Pearl melissapearl.blogspot.com

15 Claudia Lefeve claudialefeve.com

16 Joseph Beekman josephsstoriesandtales.blogspot.com

17 Pendragon Innmen PendragonWrites.com

19 Alex J. Cavanaugh alexjcavanaugh.blogspot.com

20 Gillian Schafer gillianjoy-livingtowrite.blogspot.com

21 FiaunaLund formyfour.blogspot.com

22 Anastasia V. Pergakis labotomyofawriter.com

23 H. Linn Murphy murph4slaw.blogspot.com

26 Tanya Contois speedyreader-allthingsbooks.blogspot.com

27 Patti Larsen pattilarsen.blogspot.com

28 Red Tash RedTash.com

29 Annetta Ribken wordwebbing.com

30 Cindy Hogan watched-thebook.blogspot.com

*Sorry, parcel shipping is for US residents only for Darkspell drawing;
International winner will get an e-book of Darkspell and an e-copy of my illustrated Darkspell poster drawn by moi!

That means I can have 2 different winners--please let me know if your International so that I may enter you in the drawing!

Thank you! *Hugs*

Winners will be chosen by Random.org

20 Days of Prizes--easy to win TONS!

2011-12-09T00:04:00.001-07:00

Welcome to our Debutante Ball, a Feast of Debut Authors Blog Tour!

So a bunch of us debut authors have decided to cohort and we came up with a sweet deal for our loyal readers!

We will spotlight our books and share some cinematic fun as well!

The party will start Monday the 12th, and will go on through the rest of the year until the 30th!

Wait, that's not all! We love our books so much that we want to give them to you along with cool swag! Most of our contests will end Saturday, the 31st!

What do we want of you? Just your comment luvin' and cool invites to as many friends as you can gather for our every appearance--each shout out you do is just that much more of a chance to WIN BIG! Just let us know as you do them so we know to throw that in the voting box.

Here's the list of FaNtAbUlOuS dEbUt AuThOrS that will lure you with lots of cool stuff to win!

Remember, most of all, have fun!

12 Elizabeth Mueller elizabethmueller.blogspot.com

13 Regan Guerra reganguerra.blogspot.com

14 Melissa Pearl melissapearl.blogspot.com

15 Claudia Lefeve claudialefeve.com

16 Joseph Beekman josephsstoriesandtales.blogspot.com/

17 Pendragon Innmen PendragonWrites.com

19 Alex J. Cavanaugh alexjcavanaugh.blogspot.com

20 Gillian Schafer gillianjoy-livingtowrite.blogspot.com

21 FiaunaLund formyfour.blogspot.com

22 Anastasia V. Pergakis labotomyofawriter.com/

23 H. Linn Murphy murph4slaw.blogspot.com

26 Tanya Contois speedyreader-allthingsbooks.blogspot.com

27 Patti Larsen pattilarsen.blogspot.com

28 Red Tash RedTash.com

29 Annetta Ribken wordwebbing.com

source

30 Cindy Hogan watched-thebook.blogspot.com

Ahem. May I see your dance card, please?

Guest Post: Tanya Contois

2011-12-07T06:00:00.000-07:00

Today, Tanya Contois is visiting my blog! Please give her a big welcome by showing some comment love!

Writing has always been something I’m good at but after high school I lost focus of that. Instead I worked a series of jobs that lead nowhere. I always felt like there was something else I was meant to do. Now I’m 28 and despite all my efforts to find a job I’m still unemployed.

When I first started my blog and Facebook page All Things Books it was only meant to be a hobby but it has become more popular than I ever thought it would. Both the Facebook page and the blog were very helpful to me because it introduced me to so many people that I wouldn’t have gotten to know otherwise. I have been incredibly lucky to get to know so many friendly and kind people. Another plus of creating All Things Books is that I was able to learn about smaller publishers with open submissions.

When I saw that Firefly and Wisp publishers were having a contest for several anthologies I submitted a horror short story based around the urban legend Bloody Mary. Having my story chosen to be in the anthology was a huge deal but I really wanted a contract. At the same time I had to be realistic because there are so many incredibly talented writers who don’t have contracts with publishers. So I buckled down and started working at fixing plot holes and grammar/spelling errors. At the beginning of October S.L. Schmitz emailed me about participating in a blog talk radio show. Although I was incredibly nervous about being on air I said yes. After exchanging emails with Stephanie about the details of the show I got an email from Giovanni Gelati. When he asked if I was a writer I said yes and gave him a brief description of what I am working on. A few days later I signed the contract officially making me a Trestle Press author.

To anyone who aspires to be a writer don’t give up hope. There are alternatives to being traditionally published that are becoming more and more popular each day. Keep an eye out for smaller publishers with open submissions. There is also the self published route. Other websites that you can publish on are Smashwords and Lulu. Amazon has also just started Kindle direct publishing.

Check out her amazing book, Wicked Little Lies!

Amazon:http://www.amazon.com/Wicked-Little-Lies-ebook/dp/B0068553DA/ref=sr_1_2?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1321404290&sr=1-2

Barnes and Noble:http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/wicked-little-lies-tanya-contois/1107444598?ean=2940013460751&itm=2&usri=wicked+little+lies&workid=1107444598

follow her on Facebook:http://www.facebook.com/tanyacontois

follow her on Twitter:http://twitter.com/tanyalc28

What is your writing journey like?

Introducing the Debutante Ball of Debut Authors Blog Tour!

2011-12-04T00:00:00.001-07:00

Hi! I just wanted to let you know that I've gathered** an armful of rockin' debut authors who want to spread some book cheer for Christmas!

We will start December 12 and party all the way to the 30th! Okay, I know I said for Christmas, but who wants the spirit to end on the 25th?

All you have to do is visit each of the author's sites, leave comment lovin', and PLEASE spread the word by shouting out on all your social networks our FUN tour! Shouting out is one point per network per day per author (-or- depending on individual author's rules), just let us know your deeds and you'll have that much more of a chance at winning!

We will be giving away rockin' prizes--makes for wonderful gifts!

Is your Christmas shopping done?

*a special note for our participating male authors: What's a debutante ball without our escorts? It'll be a smashing hit!
**If you're a debut author and would LOVE to be a part of our fun, we have 8 spots left! Please either leave a comment or email me and I'll send you the info!
elizabeth.mueller.authorATgmail--thanks! :)

Bumps & Bruises

2011-11-29T14:38:00.001-07:00

source

It's been about 1 month since Darkspell released--2 weeks since I've had my print copies!

Is life suddenly rainbows and pink clouds? Nope. The book dream doesn't stop here.

I had to wait a week before my printed versions arrived at my doorstep so that I could mail my signed and numbered beauties to awaiting fans. It was the very next work day, my entire family came down with the severe flu--including myself!

I've just shipped off over 30 books this past week, and I'm barely feeling better.

Okay, so here's the bomb: I had my first 4 "rejections" within a 2 week period before my books arrived. They are all from people I know! What I mean by rejection is that they didn't like Darkspell. These people are my close friends and family. Wait, don't go, I have something important to tie in with this lesson.

I've read somewhere--and I wish I could remember where--that if someone gives your book a bad review, it's because you've reached outside your marketing range. It's like submitting a query letter to an agent that loves horror and yours is a picture book.

Can you see what I'm saying?

I'd have to say that I am VERY grateful for these 4 people because it knocked the shock factor into me right off the bat, but now it's not so shocking anymore when I got a 2 star review--amid a sea of 5 stars--saying that it wasn't what she thought.

She's right. My book isn't her cup of tea. Just because it isn't, doesn't mean it's a BAD book. Like when you get rejected by an agent or publisher. It's NOT a bad book, it just doesn't appeal to their tastes--whatever they are at the moment.

One thing is for sure, this 2 star reviewer has made me realize something about "real life". She's honest and upfront. That's more than what I get when I'm stuck in a crowd of smiling people who know me and won't give me the time of day to say hi or at least say WHY they don't 'like' me. (Actions are louder than words, you know...)

What do you think?

For aspiring authors, it's pretty much the same type of rejection when you get your edits back, those nasty rejection letters and such, but being "public" now means that people have permission to make their thoughts public. Be ready!

Those who are published, how do you handle the bad reviews?

Robin, welcome to my Writer's Cave!

2011-11-25T00:00:00.000-07:00

source

I've basically gone AWOL for the past month--I hope you haven't given up on me. Sorry. I've decided to set a lofty goal for myself and that is to complete 2 novels before the year is out.

I started writing Darkwraith over a month ago, Darkspell's sequel. Well, since I've never officially written a sequel before, this has been a HUGE challenge. So my muse decided to take me into another direction.

Enter Kursed. It's a story about a Gothic boy who ran into a family curse that changes him into a soul-eating demon. I started this under a month ago and I've reached the 57K word mark. Still going. It's flowed, ebbed, and flowed again.

My muse has rewarded me. Now I have many ideas on how to expand on Darkwraith and I'm excited to get back to that as soon as Kursed is done!

source (MY MUSE)

That's where I've been. I intend to remain low for the rest of this month as well as December.

I hope to draw from the eternal waters of inspiration, motivation and creativity as I fly--sometimes trudge--through my writing journey.

source

Where are you at in your writing goals? Are you meeting them? Are they running away from you?

Powerful Writerly Words by a Veteran

2011-11-23T00:00:00.000-07:00

Today, Kristie Cook and I have decided to abduct each other's blog (please visit me here!). I've been blown away by the things she said today and I bet you will too.

If you're a writer--doesn't matter where you stand--you need to read on!

Since Elizabeth’s debut novel just released, I thought I might share some tips and insight from a (sort of) seasoned author. I wish someone would have told me these things when I was a young’un – I wouldn’t have thought myself (extra) insane. So, Elizabeth and other soon-to-be-publishedauthors (it doesn’t matter what “soon” really is), here are some things you can expect:

You will get reviews, people’s opinions written for the whole world to see. These are usually great, but when you’re opening the page to read a review, it’s normal for your gut to feel like you swallowed a school of flopping fish. By the time you’re done reading the review, the queasy feeling will either turn into your heart growing three times its normal size and a smile being plastered on your face or into the desire to throw things and yell at the computer about how wrong the reviewer is. I’m sure you won’t experience the latter often because I know people will love your book. But even those who don’t do you a great service. After all, if every.single.one of your reviews is glowing, people wouldn’t believe them.

It’s also normal to check all the retailers’ sites, Goodreads, Shelfari, etc., on a daily or even hourly basis to see if any new reviews have been posted. This compulsion will wear off after the third book or so…although it might rear its head right after a release.

Once your book starts climbing in sales numbers, it’s perfectly normal to refresh the sales report screens and/or product screens to watch your rankings climb on an hourly basis. You may be tempted to do it more often than that (not that I, personally, ever felt the need every five minutes, no, not at all), the sites only update every hour, so it’s kind of pointless.

Be sure to print out every single review and every piece of fan mail. Keep copies on external hard drives or flash drives. Blogs disappear, taking their fab reviews of your book with them. Email files become corrupt – when I thought I’d lost mine for good, one of the worst parts was thinking I’d lost all my fan mail. It’s not neurotic at all to keep these things. Trust me. I’m a writer and we all know writers are perfectly sane.

Seriously – when you do get a less-than-stellar review or you’re struggling with writing the next book, those reviews and fan mails can be exactly what you need to get back on track. They remind you that although one person might not have loved your story or writing, all these other readers have. They remind you that real, live people out there (not just family andfriends, who may or may not be real and live) are waiting for your next book. They remind you that there’s a reason you write.

Finally, enjoy the ride. You only get one debut book. There’s nothing else like it. Cherish every moment because it really is just a stop on your writer’s journey. You have more books to write, more fans to meet, more excitement to come. And we’re all here with and for you during the ups and downs and in-betweens.

Best wishes, Elizabeth and Darkspell! Your journey has only just begun.

Kristie Cook is the award-winning author of the best-selling Soul Savers Series, which currently includes Promise and Purpose and the newly released Genesis: A Soul Savers Novella. The third book in the series, Devotion, releases February 2012. She can be found at www.KristieCook.com.

Whoa, Kristie, thank you for these words of wisdom. I'll always remember!

Have a great Thanksgiving, guys!

Bound by CK Bryant

2011-11-22T11:10:00.001-07:00

BOUND (#1 in THE CRYSTOR Series)

by C.K. Bryant

YA Paranormal Romance

When a photo shoot ends in tragedy, Kira discovers her best friend, Lydia, has been keeping a secret. Knowing the truth, and accepting it, will change Kira’s life forever and thrust her into a world of ancient curses, magical objects, and savage enemies. What happens next will challenge everything Kira knows about her world, herself and the shape-shifting warrior she’s falling in love with. No longer the timid mouse her mother accused her of being, but a woman who finds the mental and physical strength to endure and survive.

BOUND is a heroic tale of true friendship, infinite sacrifice and untamed love.

You'll definitely find more than meets the eye in this adventurous read. As Kira fights her internal struggles, she learns how to understand herself through the love of her friends Lydia and her brother, Octavian--whom she is hopelessly drawn to.

This is a story about friendship and love. I enjoyed the character development. How they interacted with each other, how they fought for love--and I especially enjoyed Octavian's fierce devotion to his sister, Altaria.

If you enjoy adventures, love and friendship, this book is for you!

You can order a signed copy of Bound here, Kindle download here, and join Christine's grand giveaway here!

Become by Ali Cross

2011-11-11T00:00:00.000-07:00

I am SO excited for my friend, Ali, whose debut novel releases November 11th, 2011--tomorrow! YAY!

What it is:

BLURB:

Sixteen-year old Desolation Black wants nothing more than to stay in Hell where it’s cold and lonely and totally predictable. Instead, she’s sent back to Earth where she must face the evil she despises and the good she always feared.
When Desi is forced to embrace her inner demon, she assumes her choice has been made—that she has no hope of being anything other than what her father, Lucifer, has created her to be. What she doesn’t count on, is finding a reason to change—something she’s never had before—a friend.
Smashwords Goodreads

who it is:

BIO:
Ali Cross is a super fantastic writerly friend of mine whose writing rocks. Her characters bleed from the pages, but don't let that scare you. You'll come back for more!

where it is (launch):

right HERE!

how to find Ali:

Twitter
Blog
Facebook
Dark C.A..R.M.A. Blog
The Writer’s Dojo
Goodreads

Congratulations, Ali!

click here to order your copy!

Thises and Thatses

2011-11-04T08:47:00.002-06:00

I had 3 online book launches. I'm spoiled. They all went very well. The response made me feel like a red-carpet celebrity! Thank you!

Darkspell has many readers swooning and crying and gripping pages as they've reported to me personally. How wonderful!

Your chance to win Darkspell is not over. Click here for details!

I need a break. I've been working overtime and I need to lay low for this month. I'm working on Darkwraith--Darkspell's sequel as well as Kursed--another YA Paranormal Romance, but through 1st person MALE! (a few readers inspired me!) It's my goal to finish both books before the New Year! Wish me luck.

This is the image that is feeding my Kursed muse. And now, the main character is NOT a vampire, but something different . . .

image found on facebook

I have a few posts scheduled for the month, though. Don't miss out!

Meet me this Saturday at Mormon Mommy Writer's blog for Lisa Turner's Darkspell review and guest post!

Something to ask: What is your goal for NaNoWriMo?

Envy Penvy and a Bunch of Insecure Writers...

2011-11-02T00:00:00.000-06:00

I'd like to take advantage of this time and thank the awesome folks who made my Book Launch possible!

Congratulations, Alex Cavanaugh,

you've won Darkspell poster!

Congratulations, Erin Danzer

you've won $10 Amazon gift certificate!

Congratulations, Tristi Pinkston,

you've won an ecopy of Darkspell!

Now for our regularly scheduled program. ;)

click on button for list!

It seems that there is always something new each month, doesn't there? My baggage is comparing myself. That's one of the most destructive human behaviors that I have a hard time getting rid of.

It used to be comparing how neat a friend's house is compared to mine, but now, it's how much more happening other blogs, facebookers are compared to mine. I'm all over the place, I feel, blogging, commenting, following, and yet, it's slower than a snail's trail here.

I know how Alex does it, but with a family of 4 kids among other things that rip me apart, how do I keep up with him? I can't.

I spoke with a friend of mine last month about my feelings. She tells me to think about losing the most important thing--this would put all petty qualms into perspective.

You know what? She's right.

By golly, I am doing my darndest here in my nook and it's my downfall to compare myself. I love to encourage and uplift others and now I should feed myself my own meds: It's okay, I'm doing my best and I should be happy with what I can do. End of story.

How do you squelch envying?

Darkspell Launch Spookfesta is HERE!

2011-10-31T00:00:00.001-06:00

I'd like to thank everyone of my best bloggie palz who volunteered to help make this possible. There is an overwhelming amount of kindness that brings me to tears. Thank you, guys, you ROCK!

source

If I had all the magic in the world, I'd live in a log cabin in the middle of 1,000 acres with horses on it. *SIGH*

Great news! Darkspell is here to stay! I have to admit that I am thrilled and nervous at the same time.

Winter Sky believes she is everything ordinary . . . until she is kissed by Alex Stormhold.

As seer of Stormhold Coven, Alex is sworn to be Winter's protector against the darkness that hunts her. Violently thrust into the magickal realm she always thought impossible, she stumbles upon a disturbing secret of her own.

Will love prove thicker than magick?

Darkspell is now available on Smashwords
& Kindle, and Amazon.com paperback

For a signed copy, please visit my website! http://www.authorelizabethmueller.com/

This Wednesday, I will announce 3 winners from the beautiful list (hopefully you would have posted to qualify)!

Darkspell--7 Different Ways to WIN a Copy!

2011-10-29T00:00:00.000-06:00

Ever skimmed ahead to see if anything bad happens to your favorite character? Well, here's your chance with Darkspell without having to actually read. How you say? Glad you asked! The easiest and funnest way of course is with chapter illustrations!

That is one way that makes Darkspell so fresh and fun to actually read!

Onto the free stuff . . .

I've searched the web and have found 7 different ways for you to win a FREE copy of Darkspell!

1--Romancing-the-book.com! November 6th--SUCCESS!

2--Darkspell Launch Spookfesta! October 31st--SUCCESS!

3--"like" my fan page and automatically enter to win a Darkspell copy on Halloween! October 31st--SUCCESS!

4--Konstanz Silverbow's Book Giveaway! October 31st--SUCCESS!

5--Taneesha has shown tons of Darkspell LOVE! November 12th--ONGOING

6--Scribblers Cove's Hurricane Season Double Book Launch Give-Away! November 31st--ONGOING

7--CK Bryant Giveaway & followup chat with ME!--SUCCESS!

It's easy to win! Well? What're ya waitin' for?

PS:
WOOOOT! My debut novel, Darkspell YA Paranormal Romance releases this Halloween!

Book Review: Deep Blue Secret by Christie Anderson

2011-10-26T00:00:00.000-06:00

Sadie James has fallen in love with a mysterious boy with green eyes. He seems to be where she needs him, like when she nearly drowns in the sea. How doe he know where to find her?

After he pays her a forbidden visit, he is all she can think about. Obsessed with him, she hunts the entire school, but doesn't find him.

Rayne struggles to keep his feelings at bay from the day he meets Sadie, but is that what he really should do?

Christie Anderson did an excellent job at revealing the plot and characters by showing us its secrets bit by bit. The characters are well thought out and believable down to their endearing habits! This book is a sweet romance that had me turning the pages for more.

to purchase Deep Blue Secret:
http://www.amazon.com/Deep-Blue-Secret-Water-Keepers/dp/1463768591/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1317345871&sr=8-1

view the booktrailer:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=BNODYfM7lvo

visit the author!
http://christieanderson.org/

Thanks, Christie, for the wonderful read!

The Power of Being an Author by Brian Moreland

2011-10-24T00:00:00.000-06:00

Today I have the honors of having Brian Moreland as my guest. Please visit his blog and let him know how awesome he is!

Without further ado, Brian Moreland!

Your manuscript is written. Your agent sells it to a publisher. You celebrate with your friends and family. After signing the contract, your very first advance check arrives in the mail. You had hoped for six figures, but it’s only four. It’s divided up into thirds and barely pays one month’s bills. You won’t receive the other two payments until your book is edited and releases late next year, but who cares? You’ve landed your first book deal! You do your happy dance in the living room. Months later your manuscript returns home with lots of red marks and notes from your editor. You edit the book and rewrite a couple chapters. Soon after, your editor emails the cover design. You’re blown away by the artwork and fancy type with your name on the cover. Your book suddenly takes on a whole new dimension. You post the cover on Facebook. Your friends and family give you lots of “Way-to-go’s!” and “Congrats!” Twelve to eighteen months later your book releases on Amazon and in book stores across the country. At last, after years of dreaming and writing, you hold your printed book in your hands. It’s like holding a newborn baby, and your heart swells in your chest. You might even shed tears. The metamorphosis is complete. You can now drop the moniker “aspiring writer” and proudly call yourself an author.

For those writers persistent enough to pursue a writing career—the ones who refuse to give up despite all the years without pay and rejections from agents and publishers—at some point you will publish your first book. It may take years, or in my case, almost two decades. I am living proof that dreamers who procrastinate can eventually complete a book and publish. And once you do, there is much glory to be had. You enter a whole new reality where you wield the power to accomplish bigger goals and experience more than you ever dreamed possible.

Traveling the world as an author doing research has opened many doors for me to have some extraordinary experiences. While doing research for my Word War II thriller SHADOWS IN THE MIST back in 2005, I backpacked across Germany, exploring some of the battlefields. While there, I met three historians—two German, one Dutch—who took me under their wing because I was an author. They showed me where to find some battlefields that weren’t on any tourist maps. I also got to tour a WWII museum that wasn’t open to the public. It was at a German man’s three-story house; every room, including the large basement, was full of war relics and mannequins dressed in German, American, and British uniforms. Every kind of weapon imaginable was on display. The German historians shared many personal details about the war that I would have never found in a history book. The next weekend they invited me to a WWII reunion, where I met several veteran German soldiers. They told me story after story that impacted the writing of my novel. Because I was an author, I was treated with high respect. And that respect has followed me to every country I’ve visited.

Publishing my second novel DEAD OF WINTER was even easier than my first. With SHADOWS IN THE MIST, I had established a track record of book sales, blurbs from famous authors, and positive reviews. I had also grown as a writer and had more confidence in what I could accomplish. My literary agent learned that a legendary editor, Don D’Auria, was starting up a new horror line over at Samhain Publishing. My agent thought this would be a good home for DEAD OF WINTER—a historical horror mystery about a cannibal killer stalking a fur-trading fort in 1870. I submitted my second book to Samhain Horror. Less than 30 days later, Don offered me a book deal. I did another happy dance. As it turns out, DEAD OF WINTER was chosen as one of the first novels to launch the new horror line in October 2011. From this experience, I have made friends with several other Samhain Horror authors releasing their books alongside mine.

As an author, I’ve gotten to be the guest of honor at parties, been interviewed on radio shows, and was invited to speak to 900 junior high students. If you’re a public speaker, having a published book gives you credibility to land speaking engagements. A published book also gives you an opening into highly esteemed circles. I’ve met a number of best-selling authors whom I’ve idolized. I’ve shared meals with them, drinks at the bar, sat next to them on panels at conventions, and gotten to have long, personal conversations with men and women whose books I had been reading for years. Those experiences always gave me a sense of awe.

Your power gets even bigger once you hit best-seller status. If you’re Stephen King, James Patterson, or Dan Brown, you’ve achieved super stardom and the literary world is your oyster. Publishers roll out the red carpet and pick you up in limos. You get top billing on all advertising, your cover placed on Amazon’s homepage among other best-sellers, and your book displayed right at the front of Barnes and Noble. I’ve even seen famous authors in full-page ads in USA Today and on billboards. With this kind of exposure, selling thousands of copies and topping the best-sellers’ lists become automatic. From there your popularity with fans grows exponentially.

I once heard best-selling thriller author Brad Meltzer give a speech. He shared a funny story that one of his novels had just hit number one on the best-seller’s list in Bulgaria, a small European country. When he arrived in Bulgaria and walked off the plane, a crowd of people holding up signs were standing behind a chain-link fence and cheering for him. You would have thought he was Prince William or the Pope. Everywhere Brad Meltzer went in Bulgaria, he was treated like a royal celebrity. He described the experience as surreal.

While having raving fans is certainly one outcome of becoming a popular author, most exciting of all is that your book could get made into a movie. When I met horror author Brian Keene, he told me he was on his way to the filming of his novel Ghoul. He got to experience seeing his book coming to life in a whole new way as actors were playing his characters. When Stephanie Meyer’s Twilight series was being filmed, she got to visit the set and meet all the actors. And those movies have immortalized her characters and created an explosion of Twilight merchandise.

Stephen King has seen dozens of his novels and short stories adapted into movies. And so has R.K. Rowling, who has reaped the rewards of her Harry Potter series being made into eight blockbuster movies. Universal Studios even added a Harry Potter attraction at their theme park, and Rowling was a V.I.P. guest at the grand opening along with the movie stars.

Once the movie version of your book hits the big screen, you can watch your book sales skyrocket, and the power of what you can accomplish as an author multiplies. Not to mention your income. You can finally quit that day job and write for a living!

So what is it that gives authors such power to be treated like celebrities, earn lucrative incomes, and experience extraordinary careers?

The power, I believe, comes from the stories that live between the covers of their books. Well-written stories with characters we can relate to can induce feelings of love, pleasure, joy, and hope for a better tomorrow. Your book can touch the lives of readers in ways you can’t even imagine. R.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter books inspired millions of children to read. Stephanie Meyers’ love triangle between a confused teenage girl, a vampire, and a werewolf offered a fantasy romance that young adults found highly entertaining, especially my fourteen-year-old niece, who has read the Twilight books multiple times and now reads every vampire romance she can get her hands on. For adults, authors like Stephen King, James Rollins, and Norah Roberts continue to churn out thought-provoking fiction that ignites discussions in online chat rooms and Twitter.

When a reader is emotionally moved by a book, they love to share their experience directly with you, the author. I’ve been fortunate to receive a number of exuberant Facebook posts, Tweets, and fan letters from readers. These words of praise always make my day. A group of students sent me a photo album with photos and letters describing their experience of reading my book as a class assignment. One fan expressed that reading my novel helped him get out of depression and inspired him to start living again. I have been deeply touched, seeing the impact my writing has had on others. I would not have had any of these incredible experiences had I given up on my dream.

Books have power. During times of economical uncertainty, when our media is bombarding us with news of politics, unemployment, and wars, a good book has the power to help readers escape into an alternate universe where they can experience anything that the author imagines for them. So if you’re still an “aspiring writer,” stick to your goals of becoming a published author. Do whatever it takes to complete your book and get it published. If a procrastinating dreamer like I used to be can do it, so can you. There is much glory ahead of you. Earning royalty checks and being treated like a celebrity are nice fringe benefits. Well-deserved perks for all those months you spent alone typing at your computer. The highest rewards, I believe, come from sharing the book that was in your heart and knowing that your words, your stories wield the power to bring joy to the lives of others.

Author Bio: Brian Moreland writes novels and short stories of horror and supernatural suspense. He loves hiking, kayaking, rock climbing, and dancing. Brian lives in Dallas, Texas where he is diligently writing his next horror novel. You can communicate with him online at http://www.brianmoreland.com/ or on Twitter @BrianMoreland. Check out his latest novel DEAD OF WINTER.

Amazon link for DEAD OF WINTER: http://www.amazon.com/Dead-of-Winter-ebook/dp/B005LYIDUY/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1315836343&sr=8-2

Get more writing and publishing tips at Brian’s blog: http://www.coachingforwriters.blogspot.com

Tough Skin?

2011-10-19T00:00:00.000-06:00

Enter to win a signed copy of Darkspell poster, a $10 Amazon gift certificate, or a copy of Darkspell! How? Just enter here and set up your post October 31st--easy peasy...pleasy?

photobucket.com

Believe it or not, I've been needing to find my other thick skin. I know as aspiring authors, we are pushed to develop thick skins from critiques, rejections, changes, and so on. It hurts to have someone tell us that we need to rewrite it because then we believe that we aren't good enough.

But there is another sort that looms after the book has sold to a publisher. The feeling of rejection doesn't stop there...

What if the readers don't like it?

What do I do when I get a bad review?

I've had several published friends feel so bummed with the fact that they got a 1 or 2 star rating, or if a reader said some awful things about their books. I'm cringing here, and Darkspell isn't out yet! I have yet to find another layer of skin--and this one might have to be thicker because now it will be made public rather than private and between you and the other person.

How do you deal with thick-skin moments?

Marketing Crazy Days

2011-10-17T00:00:00.000-06:00

Please remember to sign up for Darkspell LaunchSpookfesta party for October 31st here--coolawesome prizes!

source

I have to confess that it's been TONS of work working with just one book. I would have to say much more intense than writing and submitting queries. You've got to keep up appearances with every network so as to keep your name in circulation. That's just online stuff. I've been taking mental notes of every place I could do signings as well as getting them to carry my book. I don't know how much marketing the big publishers do for you, but mine is small, but I'm happy to push my book along. It's certainly a growing experience!

Have you signed up for Darkspell Launch Spookfesta party? Check it out, there are cool prizes to be won!

Have you thought of marketing ideas for your book? What fun stuff do you have planned for your big day?

Book Review: The Key of Kilenya by Andrea Pearson

2011-10-13T00:00:00.001-06:00

Please remember to sign up for Darkspell LaunchSpookfesta party for October 31st here--coolawesome prizes!

From the back:
When two vicious wolves chase fourteen-year-old Jacob Clark down a path form our world into another his life is forever changed. He has no idea they have been sent by the Lorkon--evil, immortal beings who are jealous of powers he doeens' know he possesses--powers they desire to control.

The inhabitants of the new world desperately need Jacob's help in recovering a magical key that was stolen by the Lorkon and is somehow linked to him. If he helps them, his life will be at risk. But if he chooses not to help them, both our world and theirs will be in danger. The Lorkon will stop at nothing go unleash the power of the key--and Jacob's special abilities.

My thoughts:
Want to go on a colorful journey filled with adventure, excitement, and danger? Join ordinary Jacob who stumbles into a magical kingdom where all hope rests on his young shoulders. I admire his integrity for the choices he makes, though most of them are difficult. I enjoyed how he worked through tight spots with his friends who supported him the whole way through.

The world he stumbles upon is nothing like our own. It is well-developed and dangerous as I hoped for Jacob's success. The setting reminds me of Obert Skye's Leven Thumps, so you can imagine how one thing is so unlike another by our standards. It sure keeps our hero on his toes!

I have no doubt that readers will connect with Jacob as he juggles many things in life from basketball to peer pressure and as well as life or death choices.

Thanks for the blast, Andrea!

Where to find the Author:
You can learn more about Andrea Pearson here at her website: http://www.kilenyaseries.com/

Writers Support 4 U: Dying Young

2011-10-11T06:00:00.000-06:00

Please remember to sign up for Darkspell Launch Spookfesta party for October 31st here--coolawesome prizes!

Click on button to join group!

So many things are going on right now with my writing career, I'm not sure where to start. I haven't written fresh in Darkspell's sequel for about 3 weeks now because I'm juggling my internet presence hard! I've been trying to recruit minions who are willing to help me. I offer swag as well as behind-the-scenes stuff with Darkspell and other fun things.

I've been thinking about places I could book sign and how to present to them.

I wonder if it'll ever die down, or if my life will always and forever be a roller coaster? Having children to take care of is crazy enough, will I die young?

What about you, how do you keep up with your marketing and writing and life?

Fantastic Friday Writers: Holidays

2011-10-07T00:00:00.001-06:00

Please remember to sign up for Darkspell LaunchSpookfesta party for October 31st here--coolawesome prizes!

Holidays and celebrations are fun and happy, right? They don't always have to be. As readers, we want something that is bright and entertaining--bigger than life. Maybe with some intensive scenes that are not necessarily cheery.

When I write about party scenes, I love to throw in tension. In one of Darkspell's deleted scenes, I had my characters attend a masque ball for Halloween. They danced and flirted and fought. Two boys became angry over Winter and crashed the party with their rivalry.

I've written about the ancient Viking wedding celebration where the groom becomes what the bride's heart wishes him to be--human!

Another scene from my high fantasy novel, Tragic Innocence, a rich merchant returns safely from lost caverns and a celebration is held. The heroine participates by playing the harp--something she never dreamed she could do, which builds to her self-discovery.

I use celebrations sparingly in my work and only if it will move the story forward. For Darkspell, it didn't add to the book since I have Homecoming and Prom in there. Too many parties make it boring I think.

How do you season your book with parties?

Let's see what our FFW writers think!
J.D.Brown - Urban Fantasy ~*~ Jeffrey Beesler- Science Fiction ~*~ Charlene A. Wilson - Fantasy ~*~ Anastasia V. Pergakis - Fantasy ~*~

♥.•*¨Author Elizabeth Mueller¨*•.♥

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Book Review: The Key of Kilenya by Andrea Pearson

Writers Support 4 U: Dying Young

Fantastic Friday Writers: Holidays

♥.•¨Author Elizabeth Mueller¨•.♥