The Adventures of Horace, George and Ingle: GIVEAWAY!

NEW ‘COMING-OF-AGE’ FANTASY NOVEL REVEALS THREE YOUNG BROTHERS’ STRUGGLE TO SAVE THEIR KINGDOM!

 

Caution: Dragons, Myths and Betrayal Ahead!

Plot: Horace, George and Ingle are three brothers aged 15-17 growing up in a time of relative calm in a land once dominated by great battles, called Galray, - an expansive kingdom that stretches as far as the eye can see. The Kingdom has enjoyed peace and prosperity for many years under the watchfulness of the knight's council and the strong leadership of their father, King Reynold.

Horace and George are the younger twins and have shown a strong affinity for becoming knights whereas Ingle spends much of his time perfecting the art of cooking and baking with the artisan chefs throughout the lands.

When a fierce storm raging outside interrupts the brothers from a game of chess, they decide to venture into the watch tower in the middle of the storm and witness the enormous lightning strikes in one of the villages, causing fires that the villagers cannot seem to control.

Later at the council meeting, King Reynold makes the unusual choice to appoint his son Ingle to assist in the investigation that is being led by Roland, the son of another king from the council. Ingle and Roland set out to investigate the scene of the fire and uncover a strange substance with an unusual smell that Ingle can faintly recognize from his time in the kitchens. The next day, Roland anxiously goes out to see the Oracle of the mountains, while Ingle visits the kitchen and enlists his teacher to help him find the unidentified substance. Upon realizing that something or someone had coated the village roofs with a film that burns when wet, Ingle enlists his brothers to help find Roland and warn him that someone is working against their fathers and that the kingdom may be in danger.

“There is a bond between siblings, especially brothers, that is hard to explain – friend, competitor, greatest fan, advisor are all words that come to mind,” says Cumming. “In both watching my children grow-up and in my own experiences with an older brother, I tried to capture the sense of a shared experience of growing up with a sibling. Horace and George, being the younger siblings, relied on the wisdom of their older brothers but also wanted to be trusted with the same level of responsibility – something I could also identify with well.”

Author Bio: H.W. Cumming is a 21^st century Renaissance man – in addition to being an author, he is a classical and jazz pianist, a college graduate with a degree in engineering from the University of Toronto, an avid outdoorsman…having skied and trekked all over world – including both Annapurna and Mt. Kilimanjaro, and a successful business executive with more than 20 years in the information technology industry. Horace, George and Ingle were originally conceived by Cumming as bedtime stories to entertain and guide his growing children…The Adventures of Horace, George and Ingle – The Rise of the Black Knight is Cumming’s debut novel.

The Adventures of Horace, George and Ingle – The Rise of the Black Knight is available for purchase in e-book, paperback and hard cover at FriesenPress.com, Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble.  You can also connect with the author on Facebook.com.

Note from Samie: This book is an amazing read! The characters are unique and loveable and the plot is gripping. The illustrations are a wonderful touch and I think the book can be enjoyed by all ages - as can the life lessons it teaches! Not only that, I have very exciting news! I have a Rafflecopter giveaway for you all, with THREE copies of the book as prizes! Click on the link to enter...it's so simple, you might as well try!

Anger by Tiffany Brown

Blurb: Everyone has experienced it at least once in their life. Some have experienced it at least every day. 

I have traveled all over the world and have seen it in every place. I have struggled with it as well. It’s a family problem for generations. It can be your greatest motivator or worst enemy. 

Anger. Anger is defined by the Webster Dictionary as a strong feeling of displeasure and belligerence aroused by a wrong; wrath; ire. 

I will show you not only how to control your anger from a Christian perspective but also have manage it until it motivates you; not hinders you. Get Ready. Anger is nothing more than manifestation of fear. Once you eliminate fear, the anger will be gone. Become Fearless. 

Buy Link: http://amzn.com/B00LR3JWQ2

Author Bio: Dr. Tiffany Brown is native of Atlanta has taken great pride in my education and strives to continue broadening her knowledge. Graduating with a degree in Political Science from the prestigious Spelman College in 2001, a Master's degree in Public Administration from Clark Atlanta in 2004 and also a Doctorate in Public Policy from Walden University in 2009, she earned these achievements through determination and the desire to achieve her goals.

She has held positions with the United States Government Accountability Office, Fulton County District Attorney's Office, Georgia Law Center for the Homeless, Georgia Conservation Voters, Supreme Court of Georgia, Equifax, Coca-Cola Enterprises, and Atlanta Bar Association. Upon Graduation from Walden University, she has truly impacted change as an academic and practitioner.

Review: This book is a wonderful insight to the human psyche. Everyone is affected by anger on varying scales and I think absolutely anyone can relate to this text. Although it's penned as a self help book, I think there's a lot more to it than that. It isn't patronising, or condescending, it feels more like a friend than a teacher. If anger is something that you particularly suffer from, I think this book will certainly give you the tools to help overcome this. I felt really uplifted by the time I had finished reading.

Tiffany Brown is a wonderful writer and I will certainly be taking a look at more of her work.

Telsa's Imprint by Kimberly Adkins

BLURB: 

Some things just can’t be erased.

Simon’s visions of a little girl are the only memories he has. Like an imprint on his heart, the visions cling. Who is she? Who is he for that matter? Tracked and hunted across the world, and in possession of a device that sets him apart from time and space, danger follows him at each turn.

He never meant to drag Tess into his drama. But with one slow, seductive dance in a candlelit night­club, that’s exactly what he’s done.

Tesla’s own heritage is a mystery in itself. Born of wealth into a corporation with no paper trail, she’s called back to take the helm. But what’s the nature of the business she’s supposed to lead? And how does it connect her to Simon?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 EXCERPT:

Simon leaned with his back against the door. The metal was searing hot through his layers of clothing, but he barely reacted to the burn. He understood the feeling that flooded through his being, the sense that the young woman from the nightclub was just on the other side of the frame. It was false, of course. Once the device opened the slice it automatically detached and became inactive. When the door closed she was a world away.

What am I thinking? He firmly banged his head against the solid door, tacky with hot paint. When he’d told her he made a promise, he couldn’t have been more serious – and more disturbed by his reaction to the encounter in the night club than he cared to admit to himself.

What could he possibly have to offer such a beautiful young woman after a dance like the one they shared? God, he didn’t even know who he was. The only thing he could even be sure about was that he was in danger, all the time.

He had to learn the truth about his past and why he knew the things he did without remembering them. Until then, the only thing he could be is a shadow on the edge of society. Everyone was safer that way.

He replayed the way she felt in his arms, how she stood on her toes to kiss his chin with her irresistible lips. She felt familiar to him in a way he hadn’t experienced for what seemed like a lifetime. It didn’t matter, though. He couldn’t let it matter. She was halfway across the world now, and all the better for it.

…besides, he had work to do. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

AUTHOR Bio and Links:

Kimberly Adkins is an author and artist who spends her spare time working on worm hole theories so she can go back in time and enter Star Gate’s ‘Get in the Gate’ sweepstakes as many times as it takes to win.

Says Kimberly of romance, “Fate lines up to reward the faithful who believe that love holds a power beyond our understanding and dreams have a chance to come true.”

Website: www.kimberlyadkins.com

Twitter: twitter.com/authorkimberlya

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Kimberly-Adkins/194607480611778

Win a copy of Telsa's Imprint here: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/28e434172/

Dream Huntress by Michelle Sharp

BLURB: Detective Jordan Delany has a gift. Through her dreams, she connects with dead victims of violent crimes. Her isolated life as a drug cop is perfect for hiding the freakish visions, until her newest investigation has her posing as a cocktail waitress in a down-and-dirty strip club. When she’s saved from a drunken customer by a handsome stranger, the heated chemistry is exactly why she intends to keep Mr. Arrogant at bay. But learning he’s the new bouncer for the corrupt club she intends to bust just might be the one reason why she can’t.

Tyler McGee suspects a drug ring operating out of the local club is flooding the streets of his hometown with heroin. Determined to get answers, he plays the part of a fallen cop and lands the job of head bouncer. What he discovers is that the club owner isn’t the only deadly obstacle he’s facing. His attraction to an intriguing cocktail waitress with a penchant for danger just might kill him first.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 

EXCERPT: Her breath hitched, and her gaze locked on his. He pulled his hands back, as if the impact of the connection startled him, too. She wasn’t sure if chemistry was the right word, but something foreign, and not altogether unpleasant, crackled in the air when they touched.

Oddly compelled to test the theory, Jordan reached out and ran a finger over the scratches on his chin. “I’m sorry, I hurt you.”

He continued to hold her in that dangerous gaze, and when she pulled her hand away, he swallowed. Hard.

Definite chemistry.

He offered a thin smile. “You almost gave me a heart attack; my blood pressure was probably high enough for me to stroke out. I thought you were dying. Probably took ten years off my life, and you’re sorry you scratched me?”

He was attempting to lighten the mood. But his humor only made her throat swell and her eyes burn. She’d put him through hell, and he was still being sweet.

“Well, then, I’m sorry for the stroke and heart attack, too,” she teased, managing to yank a knot in her unraveling emotions. “I thought you left, and I took something for the pain. The doctor at the hospital said it would help if my back started hurting again, but I should have known better. I have bad reactions to most drugs, even the mildest ones. They help with the aches but also give me weird nightmares. Usually, I don’t even take aspirin, but tonight I thought it might help. Guess it backfired.”

“You think?” He lifted his hand to her face and tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. “Okay then, no more drugs for you. Trust me when I say you won’t even get a baby aspirin out of me.”

He let his knuckles fall against her cheek, and the zing of chemistry returned. Then the pad of his thumb smoothed across her bottom lip and stalled there. Along with his gaze.

There was no escaping the fact that he was contemplating kissing her. And she was seriously contemplating letting him.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Author Bio: Michelle Sharp is a romantic suspense author from the Midwest. Although she has a degree in journalism from Southern Illinois University, she finds weaving tales of danger, deception, and love much preferable to reporting the cold, hard facts. Her goal in life? To team resilient, kick-ass heroines with the sexy alpha’s who love them. As most writers probably are, she is an avid reader. Her husband and kids would call it obsessive—but whatever. Her first choice is usually a story with a thrilling combination of danger and love, but any book with a great voice and intriguing story will keep her turning pages well past any reasonable bed-time. Her debut novel will be published with Entangled Ignite in summer of 2014. She is a member of Romance Writers of America and Missouri Romance Writers.

Links:

Website:  http://www.michellesharpbooks.com/

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/pages/Michelle-Sharp/609022162479401

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MSharpBooks

Entangled Publishing: http://www.entangledpublishing.com/dream-huntress/

Barnes & Noble:  http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/dream-huntress-michelle-sharp/1119641083?ean=9781622667413

Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/Dream-Huntress-Dreamseeker-Novel-Michelle/dp/1622667409/ref=la_B00KPNFH0U_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1403706194&sr=1-1

For a chance to win a $30 Amazon Gift Card, courtesy of Michelle Sharp, please click here: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/28e434230/

The Lost Flower by Geraldine Solon

BLURB:

 After third grade teacher, Lacy Stone undergoes a kidney transplant she develops vivid dreams of a toddler running away from a blazing fire. Lacy soon embarks in a journey to Boracay island, Philippines to find answers. On the island, Lacy meets Sampaguita Navarro, one of the last few Aetas of her tribe. As a manghihilot, Sam hopes to open her own holistic spa on the island, but as she acquires tragic visions, she discovers that her gift of touch comes with a price. Searching for clues, Lacy crosses paths and falls in love with investor, Adam Shaw not realizing that he's the prime target of waitress, Frankie Lloyd who has acquired a new identity to seek revenge and claim her redemption. When Lacy and Sam provide a threat to Frankie’s plans, trouble looms paradise which leaves Lacy with a choice between saving the man she loves or the child from her dream.

To win a FREE print copy of The Lost Flower enter here: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/28e434127/

 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 

EXCERPT:

Chapter One

Smoke filled the air as Lacy Stone raced through the crowd of bystanders standing outside a burning resort surrounded by tall coconut trees. Flames bellowed all over the place as three men eradicated the fire. A short dark man carried a white man splattered with blood all over his face and clothes as the man laid him on a stretcher.

“My wife?” He called out with his raspy voice. “Where is she?”

“We’re still searching for her.”

The bystanders mumbled in their native tongue.

The man positioned the oxygen mask on his face. “We have to rush you to the clinic.”

A wailing sound echoed as people pushed their way to the resort. Lacy spotted a toddler with curly hair carrying a bouquet of white flowers scurrying towards the island. Without hesitation, Lacy scampered after her. “Wait.”

A strong wave splashed through the child and carried her deep into the ocean.

Lacy dove into the water hoping to save her. Air escaped her lungs, then everything went black.

Feeling a nudge on her shoulder, a familiar voice said, “Lacy, are you all right? Looks like you had a bad dream.”

 Lacy pushed the comforter down, gasping for breath as she caught a glimpse of the ceiling fan in her bedroom.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

AUTHOR Bio and Links:

 Geraldine Solon is the award-winning, best-selling author of three novels—Love Letters, Chocolicious and The Assignment and a marketing guidebook, Authorpreneur in Pajamas. Two of her books have been adapted into film. Geraldine is the Managing Editor of food/fashion/lifestyle magazine, Gastronomique en Vogue She is also the Vice President of the Fremont Area Writers club and the Screenwriter/Executive producer of her upcoming movie, Love Letters. Geraldine has studied creative writing and screenwriting courses at Stanford University. She is currently working on two novels and a screenplay. You can learn more about

Geraldine at www.geraldinesolon.com

Twitter:@GeraldineSolon

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Geraldine-Solons-Author-Page/181823348524179

Instagram: http://instagram.com/geraldinesolon_author

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/609788.Geraldine_Solon

Review: The Lost Flower is a wonderful story, beautifully written with engaging characters. As soon as I started reading the story, I couldn't put it down - the plot follows Lucy as she embarks on a life changing adventure, and with each page I found myself becoming increasingly sucked into the storyline, gripped by the romance and mystery it entailed. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves and unusual plot which will leave you reeling for days after you have finished reading.

Forever Tainted by Julia Skyler

Blurb: A baron...driven by love? Lord Johnathan Connolly never believed in wicked creatures. So, when his best friend tries to tell him what's attacking people and turning them into dark beings, John is skeptical. He soon learns to face reality when he witnesses an evil creature with his own two eyes. He's forced to engage in a beastly battle in order to rescue Ann, the woman he met and fell in love with. He never expected to meet this extravagant woman who stole his heart. Little does he know that he's going to spend a very long time fighting to keep her. Ann Winfrey has never met a man like John Connolly. She's completely smitten when their eyes meet. It seems they were meant to be together. He's wealthy, powerful, and extremely handsome. He's a love hungry baron who's determined to be with her, and she longs to spend a life with him as well. Neither of them have any idea what they must face to be together. Love...True And Eternal One love stricken man, one fiery woman, one hellish story.

Buy Link: http://amzn.com/0990471659

Review: Forever Tainted is a flawless vampire love tale, full of wonderfully written characters, driven by an amazing story line. Julia Skyler is an amazing author, who is definitely going places! As soon as I started reading this book I just couldn't put it down - the plot sucks you in from the very first page. It is by far the best paranormal story I've ever read - and I'm a huge fan of the genre so that is saying a lot! I've already recommended this to all of my friends, and I shall continue to do so.

Sharing Links and Wisdom: Lockdown BBT

Sharing Links and Wisdom: Lockdown BBT: Blurb: Leah's practical joke has spiraled way out of control. Now everyone seems convinced that the apocalypse is coming - in the f...

Kick Ass Review of Lockdown from The Bookie Monster

Review

Oh my goodness!  The ending of this book alone is worthy of 5 little bookie monsters!  Lockdown is like anything I’ve read recently.

Leah is trying to impress a guy… and, as usually happens, she’s made a fool of herself.  At least she thought she did.  Jake is the office practical joker and Leah thought that she could grab his attention by sending him a completely fake video about a virus that is spreading… and turning people into zombies.  Only, instead of sending it to Jake she sends it to Jamie, her boss.  She fears for her job, believes that she will have to move back home and face the disappointment of her parents, lose her apartment and quite possible her best friend, Michelle.  But Jamie doesn’t take it as the joke it was meant to be and runs a news story on it.  Things just snowball from there.

But perhaps the video wasn’t as fake as she thought it was.  Now the government is imposing a mandatory lockdown.  Then Leah witnesses firsthand the horrors of AM13 (that’s what the government has dubbed this new virus).  In her panicked state of mind she decides she can’t stay cooped up in the office; she needs to get to her family.  And it seems she isn’t the only one locked down in the office that feels this way.  Leah, Michelle, and Jake make plans to sneak off and get to their respective families.  They have no idea what really lies ahead of them.  The trio goes through so much in such a short amount of time.

But perhaps the video wasn’t as fake as she thought it was.  Now the government is imposing a mandatory lockdown.  Then Leah witnesses firsthand the horrors of AM13 (that’s what the government has dubbed this new virus).  In her panicked state of mind she decides she can’t stay cooped up in the office; she needs to get to her family.  And it seems she isn’t the only one locked down in the office that feels this way.  Leah, Michelle, and Jake make plans to sneak off and get to their respective families.  They have no idea what really lies ahead of them.  The trio goes through so much in such a short amount of time.

Once this story gets you in its clutches, it won’t let go until the very end.

The only part that I do wish would have been expanded a little more is when Leah runs into Mike.  You get the feeling that he knows something more than he’s letting on, but then he just disappears.  I have a couple of scenarios running through my head… who knows what really happened.

And the ending… it’s twisted and I love it!!

For lovers of the zombie genre, you will eat this one up!  Even those who aren’t lovers of the genre, there are components of other genres present enough to appeal to a broad audience.  It’s a quick read… I got through it in a couple of hours.  A perfect summer, zombie fun read!

http://bookie-monster.com/2014/07/blog-tour-lockdown-by-samie-sands-review-excerpt-giveaway.html

Guardians of the Underworld

Guardians of the Underworld: Underworld Chronicles

by Rachel Tetley and Sophie Playle

Blurb: Two worlds 

Neither can exist without the other 

And one guardian to ensure their survival 

But a family with a score to settle 

Forces one boy, into a dangerous adventure 

Jake Summers is an ordinary boy with an ordinary family- so he thinks. He has just spent another summer holidays building dens in the woods with his best friend Paul. But when someone special unexpectedly dies, Jake is determined to find out the truth, unaware that it will change his life forever. 

He discovers a key to Grandpa’s forbidden room, and is plunged into a long-forgotten magical world, together with class mate Arianna Brown and a strange creature called Noggin. Stormy seas, underground carts pulled by Golden Eagles and a dragon all stand in his way. He must race against time to fulfil an ancient magical prophecy and save the world.

Buy Link: http://amzn.com/B00LA1HGWS

Review: Guardians of the Underworld is the start of what is promising to be an epic series. Jake and Arianna, the main characters are lovable and intriguing and their story delving into the underworld is a tense and gripping one. The descriptive language is visual and emotive, the plot line is incredible and it left me desperate for more!

RoguesAngels: Rogues Angels Present: Lockdown by Samie Sands

RoguesAngels: Rogues Angels Present: Lockdown by Samie Sands: Please welcome Samie Sands author of Lockdown. Samie will be awarding a signed copy of Lockdown (International winner) to a randomly draw...

Words of Wisdom....from The Scarf Princess: Blurb Blitz for Lockdown by Samie Sands (GIVEAWAY)...

Words of Wisdom....from The Scarf Princess: Blurb Blitz for Lockdown by Samie Sands (GIVEAWAY)...: Fans of The Walking Dead will be drawn to  Lockdown  by Samie Sands as it's an intriguing story with action-packed sequences.  Keep ...

Wow...another fantastic review for Lockdown!

"Finally, a book that starts before the virus is happening & from a new perspective all the way through, including the thoughts of someone who has turned. It was well edited, which can make a good book an annoying book. & the story was great. It being from someone that is supposed to know what's going on before the public & the reasons why they made the decisions they did. It was almost seamless & the story flowed so well, that I lost all track of time & read the whole thing. Losing my cleaning day to the book. Even the way it ended was a natural finish to the story. Also its not constantly a briefest so you can follow the story without distraction. Great debut Samie! For someone who also spends too much time with her nose in books, from historical novels to zombie books. I find this to be a really good read especially after the same old same old of most zombie books being about almost the same scenario (with the exception of John O'Brien's series which I adore). Sorry if I have formed on, it's my first time leaving a review."

http://amzn.com/0988619695

Escape From Dreamland - TJ Weeks

1. Can you tell me about your new venture - the goosebumps style stories?

Well I’m still doing my regular novels as well, but my kids always get angry with me since they can’t read my novels, so this is a way for all ages to enjoy some of the horror I bring to the table. The series is based on my favorite character “Allistar Shadows”, he’s a vampire clown. Kind of the Devil’s sense of humor so to speak. Book 1 of the series “Escape From Dreamland” releases out 7/7/14. I have started book 2 as well & should be done with it soon. I’m aiming to put out a new book to this series every other month.

2. What made you decide to write something so different to your normal style?

I don’t really want to direct my attention to a certain “group” of people; I want everyone to be able to enjoy my writing. Plus I always enjoy a new challenge.

3. How are you enjoying writing something outside your comfort zone?

It was a challenge at first, but after I started getting more into it things really started to click. I’m really looking forward to putting out a lot more.

4. How is the filming for Satan Claus coming along?

All the filming is done, now it’s just being put together. It was a blast directing one of my short stories though & even though I enjoy writing I’m hoping more go to film in the future. This one will be on youtube for everyone’s enjoyment.

5. You have signed to a new publishing company recently, how are you enjoying working with them?

So far so good. Titan InKorp has really worked hard on getting my novels back out there & releasing my new ones as well. As it goes with any new company, “time tells all”, but so far I can’t complain. They’re putting together a book release video for my Escape From Dreamland at the moment & working hard on putting together the illustrations for my Shark Wars. I’m looking forward to many great releases with Titan InKorp. One thing I’ve learned from being with publishing companies is trust, if there’s no trust then there’s no need in going forward with anything. Luckily I was able to get out of previous contracts that were leading into very unprofessionalism & move forward in this awesome career that I’ve made with the help of my fans.

Don't forget to check out the Escape From Dreamland Facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/events/822235011120862/?fref=ts

Taken by Benedict Jacka

Blurb: Welcome to Fountain Reach - Ancient seat of the Aubuchon dynasty - Majestic setting of the White Stone tournament. 

Alex Verus's (not necessarily reliable) reputation attracts all sorts. Most are plain bonkers. Yet there's one invitation he just can't refuse. 
At Fountain Reach, Alex is perfectly placed among the noted and notorious to figure out why apprentices have been vanishing. But the tournament is a minefield of ancient grudges and new threats, and Alex can't afford to miss a trick as his elusive adversary stays one step ahead in this most dangerous of games.

Buy Link: http://amzn.com/B008K5T2GK

Review: Taken is the third book in the Alex Verses series and wow what an action packed, fast paced installment! It didn't matter that I haven't read the previous books (although I definitely will now!) I could still follow the plot with no issues. The world that has been created by Benedict Jacka is rich and exciting and the characters are interesting and loveable. I was immediately sucked into the storyline, once I'd started reading the book I just couldn't put it down. I'm very excited to see what the author comes up with next - this series looks to be an extremely successful one!

Full Blooded by Amanda Carlson

Blurb: Born the only female in an all-male werewolf race, Jessica McClain isn't just different - she's feared. 

After living under the radar for the last twenty-six years, Jessica is thrust unexpectedly into her first change, a full ten years late. She wakes up and finds she's in the middle of a storm. Now that she's become the only female full-blooded werewolf in town, the supernatural world is already clamouring to take a bite out of her. Now her new Pack must rise up and protect her. 

But not everyone is on board. There are certain superstitious werewolves who think Jessica means an end to their race - and they're not about to go down without a fight.

Buy Link: http://amzn.com/B008K5TDSM

Review: Amanda Carlson is a phenomenal new author who is going to go far! Full Blooded is full of suspense, romance, wonderful characters and a plot you will not be able to forget. This book is a promising start to what is looking to be a brilliant series. 

The main character, Jessica is not as you would expect from a werewolf series, which just makes her all the more appealing. Abandoning her lifestyle for a more conventional one, her past soon catches up with her with exciting twists and turns. As urban fantasy goes, this is one of the best ones I've ever read!

Paths of Young Men by Matthew Chase Stroud

Blurb: Michael Corbin is awoken by the sound of his own screaming most nights--the thoughts of his past torturing him without relent. Adding to his tensions, his mother has just passed and he cannot remember the last time he communicated with either of his brothers. Of his own conviction, he has closed himself off from his family, his ambitions, and the world--and his sanity is beginning to slip with little help from the staff at Stonebrook Hospital. Fearful of Michael's debilitation, Carson Corbin, a man with an adventurous soul but prodigal personality, has taken to the road to fight the dread brought on by the mother's death. His only salvation comes from his relationship with Valencia Mott, a small town journalist with similar qualities.  Meanwhile, their brother, Christopher, travels down the Amazon River with the matriarch's ashes. As he gets deeper into the foreign countryside, he witnesses atrocities indicative of the land itself, as well as the damage suffered from foreign influence. His journey leads him past abandoned villages, a dishonorable Montana oilman, and a tribe of orphaned natives wary of his intentions. Together, the three brothers work through their emotional deficiencies to prove that loss does not irreversibly wound the human spirit.

Buy Link: http://amzn.com/1612963196

Review: Wow what a dramatic read! Once I started reading this I couldn't put it down. There is so much drama that unfolds throughout the plot, all of which is believable and relatable. I got immediately sucked into the storyline and absolutely had to find out how the story was going to end. Heartbreaking, heartwarming and thoroughly enjoyable - highly recommended.

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. Can you tell me a bit about yourself and your book.
I grew up in a small town south of Fort Worth, Texas. I did the usual rural boy thing, sports, working after school, reading, finding trouble. It was mostly ranch work and maintenance that I did (hauling hay, tending grounds, mowing for days on end.) I rather liked that, and still do. From there, I went on to college at the University of North Texas to study engineering, but got disenchanted somewhere along the way and began studying History and English. The reading was enjoyable, and I found a lot of peace in those studies, so I was fine with pursuing those subjects. Whilst working on that, I worked as a dock hand and boat tech on lake Lewisville, which I found as a way to break up intellectual study by putting my hands to work with a wrench instead of a pen. I also spent some time outside of Gardener, Montana in the summers. I moved cattle and such there. Those were very beautiful and peaceful times.
I bought myself an Olvetti typewriter sometime during my first years at college and began typing out a story about a boy moving to Montana and getting into some trouble. I later scrapped that to begin writing Paths of Young Men. It seemed to have developed more so than my first attempt, so I stuck with it.

2. What is the inspiration behind your work?
I'd always had the idea of a boy canoeing down some foreign river with his mother's ashes in my mind. It had always been there, but wasn't accessible until I started working through some other ideas. As Paths came along, I found myself creating these three brothers, all with a different set of problems. It was fun to write from each perspective, how I'd relate to their hardships, and how they would grow in some way. I started this book to memorialize the death of my grandmother, and as time and circumstance interjected, my mother found herself in there as well. You adjust to what life/death gives you, I guess.

3. Can you describe your writing style in three words?
Digging, Rooting, Exploratory

4. What makes your book stand out from the crowd?
My writing combines rural life, and the characteristics of individuals that sprout from these roots, with the larger, disparate characteristics of our world. Basically, I like to put characters in situations that challenge their being at the very core, to crumble their foundations so that they can be created anew. I also think that it is important to concern ourselves with our families, whether we hold certain individuals dear or not. These people play larger roles in our lives than we tend to give them credit for, and I play on that a little in most of my writing.

5. Who would you like to play the characters in the film version?
That's a tough one... I think I'll leave that up to the suits in Hollywood, if it ever came to that. They'd have to get three guys that could make believable brothers.

6. Do you base the characters on yourself or anyone you know?
Somewhat. I think all writing comes from some extension of your thoughts and emotions, either an exaggeration of yourself, or a complete departure from your own moral character. I see the brothers having similar concerns to those I hold, but I do not act in such a way as they do. Other characters come from people I know, or have known, sure.

7. What's next for you?
I am writing a subsequent novel about a boy roaming the Georgian hill country in search of his sister. It has some aspects of a detective-type novel, but not formulated like one in any way. I don't think I could write such a thing. The boy is destitute, squatting in country shacks and always moving, and has resolved to find the men that killed his mother and kidnapped his sister. It's been fun to write thus far.

8. Where can people find out more about you?
matthewchasestroud.com has most of my information

Author Spotlight

I'm the Triplicity Publishing author spotlight this month! Read the whole interview here: http://tri-pub.com/

Do you remember the first story you ever wrote?

The first story I ever wrote to completion was Lockdown. Before that, I’d started a few but lost motivation part way in. Lockdown was the first story of mine that didn’t seem to run out of steam.

What is your writing process?

I always start with a basic idea, knowing the beginning and the end but only parts of the middle and then I just sit and write. The first draft is very basic, but gives me a general idea of what will happen and what needs to be done. I’ll go over this a few more times, filling in and editing parts – leaving a bit of time between each draft. I find going back to the story having had a break, with fresh eyes helps me pick up plot holes and other mistakes I might not have noticed otherwise.

Do you remember the first story you ever read, and the impact it had on you?

The first book I remember having a massive impact on me was ‘Noughts and Crosses’ by Malorie Blackman. The concept behind the book is all about racism, but the thing that struck me so deeply about it, is the way the plot starts to descend slowly, with the characters lives unraveling. Then suddenly it spirals rapidly and out of control coming to an explosive ending. It’s one that I couldn’t stop thinking about after I’d finished reading it.

What are your five favorite books, and why?

1)      You’re The One That I Want by Giovanna Fletcher because it’s a love story, but it strays away from the plotline other chick lits follow. I think this makes it very brave and so interesting to read.
2)      Outpost by Adam Baker is a zombie/monster book which is so unique in its content and writing style, it absolutely blew me away when I read it.
3)      The Declaration by Gemma Malley is a cool dystopian novel which looks at what would happen if we found a way to cure all illness and extend our lives indefinitely. I like the way she deals with a topic that I’m sure most people would assume to be a positive thing.
4)      Twenties Girl by Sophie Kinsella is a hilarious, quirky ghost story which I could read over and over again. The characters are so lovable, and it’s my favourite light-hearted read.
5)      Thirteen by Kevin Hall is a really cool collection of horror stories. Once I started reading this I couldn’t put it down, each story is unique but the writing style is thematic and strong....

Read the rest at http://tri-pub.com

Zombie Anthology

Do you love everything zombie? Would you like to get involved with a brand new, unique zombie anthology?

Submissions aren't just for short stories. This anthology will also include artwork, photography, poetry and much, much more! If you would like to submit, have any ideas or would simply like to be one of the first readers of the book, please email lockdown@writeme.com.

The deadline is the 30th August and submissions that are accepted will be sent a contract form detailing all the terms of compensation. If you have any questions about this prior to submission, please email me.

Marc's Message

Josée Therrien, a Canadian author has released her "Haiku" poetry book - Marc's Message. The book is published by Xlibris.

Josée Therrien, renowned author has released her new poetry book titled ‘Marc's Message.’ The poetry book provides an exclusive and truthful sight of life and the world today. The author has shared her reflections on life and its challenges with poetry in the book.

Speaking to the media, Josée said, “Marc's Message is dedicated to my father who was a great human being. He always dreamed of a beautiful life in spite of his struggles with manic depression throughout the time he lived. He wanted to see people love and care for the world and be true to themselves. I have kept his passion for life in my heart and in my poems.” She further added, “I want to convey a message with this poetry book. Life is very beautiful but sometimes it can seem dark, but enjoy it and get through it, for what awaits on the other side is a field of dreams.”

According to sources, the poetry book ‘Marc's Message’ is already attracting a number of readers on the internet. Experts in the field are of the view that the unique approach of the book towards life is the reason why it has gained so much popularity. Some of the most loved poems of the book are amongst the following;

‘Either fear will take us over or we will fight through.’
‘It's never what we see, it's what we feel.’
‘The lights are on at home, but he'd rather be outside in the dark where there's life.’
‘When you feel lonely or not good enough, just get through it.’
‘It's the madness in the world that would make it all end, when we're too tired and out of dreams.’

The book is available in Kindle and Paperback on a number of bookseller websites including Amazon.com, Amazon.ca and Barnesandnoble.com.

Buy Link: http://www.amazon.com/Marcs-Message-Josee-Therrien/dp/1477132953

Author Bio: Josée Therrien is a 24 year old Canadian author who started writing at a very young age, discovering ways to express her emotions and thoughts. She is passionate in observing life, which comes through in her poetry. ‘Marc's Message’ is the author’s first creation; she is currently writing and preparing for her next poetry book.

Review: What a wonderful collection of unique poetry! The author is full of wonderful concepts and ideas - each one shining through in her work. Deep and meaningful, a highly recommended read.

Terror Train

Blurb: Terror Train is the creative brainchild of A. Henry Keene. The train leaves the station noir-style in New York and travels across the country until it stops in a California of the future. In between it stops in several states including Tennessee, Missouri, and Louisiana. At every stop there is a different tale of murder, ghosts, demons, and other horrors. There are tales of love gone wrong, twisted demon-possessed trains, a vampire story that is nothing like any vampire story you've ever read, and many other fun terrors. And the legendary William F. Nolan has humbled us with his gracious contribution. Along with the stories there are wonderful poems spread throughout this collection by some truly talented poets. Trust me, this is a ride you won't soon forget.

Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CoFmgrXBQYQ&feature=youtu.be

Guest Post by the Editors – A. Henry Keene and Krista Clark Grabowski

Henry Keene
In the days before bank-breaking tuition rates, I studied at the University of Louisville where I matriculated degrees in Communication, English, and Art History. I made significant progress in post-baccalaureate work in Humanities before my wings melted, and I returned to Earth to study Culinary Arts at Sullivan University. I now support himself and his family through his work as a chef.
A life-long fan of horror, I recall with delight the campy onscreen shenanigans of “Kingdom of Spiders,” the realistic horrors of “The Exorcist,” and the gruesome gore of “Demons” that scarred my youth and warped my mind. My favorite horror films are “Alien,” “Burnt Offerings,” and “Hellraiser.”
Essentially a surrealist, I stumbled into the field of horror with my first publications in James Ward Kirk anthologies. Since then, J.W.K. has published a collection of my early prose pieces entitled “The Crooked Closet” and a novella called “Meridiana.”
As a writer, I have striven to meld genre specific elements with broader cultural concerns, especially violence against women and man’s struggle with his sexual drives.
As an anthologist, I, in partnership with Krista Clark Grabowski, have compiled and edited “Terror Train.” This collection takes the reader on a journey to explore not only the place of the train in popular imagination but also the genre of horror as it plays out by region.
As a surrealist, I proudly proclaim that the inspiration for “Terror Train” came from a dream. Once the notion took shape and the partnership with Krista was formed, the project came to life and quality work from excellent artists came rolling in. It was just waiting to be done. It was in the air, the zeitgeist.
The highlight of submissions was receiving a message from Mr. William F. Nolan to offer his classic tale “Lonely Train A Comin’.” Having the Nolan piece in the Table of Contents has provided such a thrill to our contributors. We are so pleased to have been able to do it for them.
Working on this project has been pure joy from beginning to end. I am thankful to everyone involved, especially the writers and poets, who have responded so enthusiastically.

Krista Clark Grabowski
I too attended the University of Louisville, where I earned a degree in Finance that I have never used. I started working for a major health insurance company before I graduated and have been in the industry ever since, over 20 years now.
I loved reading from the time I was a child. In high school and college I devoured anything I could get my hands on that was written by Stephen King. My taste in books, like my taste in music, covers a wide range. I enjoy classics like Charles Dickens and F. Scott Fitzgerald. I enjoy Maeve Binchy, John Irving, and Neil Gaiman along with other bestselling modern-day authors. In recent years I have had the pleasure of reading the work of some very talented independent authors and it has become a passion.
I have one published story - “Daddy's Girl”, which was published in an anthology published by JWK Fiction in 2013. It was following the publication of that anthology that I had an opportunity to assist Mr. Kirk with some editing needs and discovered that I really enjoyed it. I have since done some additional editing work for him and when A. Henry came to me with his Terror Train idea I was thrilled to be part of the project.
I loved every second of putting together this anthology. Mr. Keene's idea caught on and very soon people were jumping onboard, eager to be part of it. We had fun with the authors involved in this project and we met some wonderful new people. It has truly been a collaborative effort every step of the way. I would do it all again in a second.
I am on the editing team for another JWK Fiction anthology and am also working on finishing up the first in a series of dark fiction/crime short stories. I am so lucky to have found a place where I can do what I love.
Terror Train is a wonderful collection full of great stories and poetry. You'll be happily frightened as you ride the rails. As one of the author's recently said “It's a ride that's to die for”

Buy Link: http://amzn.com/0692237526

Review: Wow what an amazing collection of terrifying horror stories from a selection of very talented authors. They are all so great in their own way - I couldn't possibly pick a favourite. From murder and revenge to mystery and monsters, this book really has it all. A must have for horror fans.