Blog Tour: Author Interview & Book Giveaway - Stitch by Samantha Durante

Welcome to Author Samantha Durante

Samantha Durante lives in New York City with her fiancé, Sudeep, and her cat, Gio. Formerly an engineer at Microsoft, Samantha left the world of software in 2010 to pursue her entrepreneurial dreams and a lifelong love of writing. A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania’s Jerome Fisher Program in Management & Technology, Samantha is currently working full time for her company Medley Media Associates as a freelance business writer and communications consultant. Stitch is her first novel.

Links:
http://www.facebook.com/stitchtrilogy
http://www.facebook.com/authorsamanthadurante
http://www.samanthadurante.com/

Interview:
Please tell us in one sentence only, why we should read your book.

If you’re into badass female leads, tension-filled romance, and something a little paranormal or sci-fi, Stitch has all that plus a twist that will knock your socks off.

Tell us your most rewarding experience since being published.

Reading the first reviews by people who didn’t know me – WOW, that was flattering!  And partnering with book bloggers, who have proven to be incredibly generous, both in taking a chance on a completely new author (me!) and helping me find an audience for my crazy book.  Bloggers have seriously restored my faith in humanity – people are GOOD.

If you were stranded on a desert island what 3 things would you want with you?

My cat, my fiancé, and my Kindle!

What is your favorite flavor of ice cream?

Cookie dough, with hot fudge and whipped cream.  Mmmm.

If you could jump in to a book, and live in that world.. which would it be?

Hogwarts, naturally.  Though I would tie in the animal daemon concept from the His Dark Materials series, and/or the dragons from Eragon.  Basically, I want to live someplace where magic exists and I can communicate directly with my cat.  Then my life would be complete.

When you were little, what did you want to be when you "grew up"?

This is a good one.  I wanted to be a lot of things: first female basketball player in the NBA, the first female president (WHY has this still not happened??), a lawyer and a model on the side, a hockey ref in the NHL…  Pretty much the only thing it never occurred to me to be was a writer, lol.

What's the best advice anyone has ever given you?

This is from one of my little brothers, to reassure me I was doing the right thing when leaving my comfortable job at Microsoft to start my own company and become a freelance writer (which, given the disparity in pay and job security, no one seemed to understand why I was doing…): “Part of being an entrepreneur is having everyone tell you you’re crazy and doing it anyway.”

Hidden talent?

Haha, if you ask any of my college friends, it’s writing.  (I took a little detour from my love of writing in college and I’m learning now that no one even knew I had an interest in it!)  But if you ask any of my high school friends or family members, they’ll tell you I’ve got nothing – I can’t sing, I can’t dance, I can’t juggle, I can’t do any tricks, I can’t even snap.  When it comes to talent shows, I am completely useless!  But at least I can write.  J

What's your favorite season/weather?

Until this year, I would have said summer, without a doubt.  I was born in the summer, I love to swim, I love to be outside, and I always appreciated the freedom of summer – not having to be anywhere or do anything unless it pleased me.  I always found that very inspiring.  But I think this year (and especially with no A/C in my apartment…) I’ve had a little TOO much summer.  Global warming = BAD.

How did you celebrate the sale of your first book?

My fiancé and I drank a bottle of Cristal.  Baller!  (But not really, because my fiancé’s brother had given it to us as an engagement present…  Thanks Joy!)

Favorite smell?

Onions and garlic cooking in olive oil.  Brings me right back to waking up on Sunday mornings with my mom starting a pot of gravy in the kitchen.  Or at the very least, I know that smell signals the coming of a delicious meal!

TV or Movies?

I love both, but if I had to choose, I’d go with TV.  I love to go on rampant TV binges where I watch like an entire series in some absurdly short amount of time.  I recently re-watched all of Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel in chronological order as they aired, and it was fantastic, even better than I remembered.  Before that it was the first four seasons of Mad Men (until I’d caught up), and before that, all four seasons (plus movies and webisodes and mini-series) of Battlestar Galactica over the course of one Christmas break.  Heaven!

Pet peeve?

Smoking.  Ugh, I HATE smoking.  I hate smoke.  I wish it was illegal, everywhere, for everyone.  If I could share one message with the world, it would be this: Please don’t smoke, especially not in public places (i.e., the street, parks, or anywhere other people could be present, ever), and especially not in dense NYC apartments where it seeps through the vents and walls and floors and makes your neighbors want to die.  (And in fact, you are slowly killing said neighbors.  So thanks.)

Coke or Pepsi?

Coke.  Diet coke, to be exact.  My housemates in college drank enough Diet Coke to buy a full-size basketball shooting game (like from an arcade) with Coke Points.  (We drank A LOT of Diet Coke.)  However, I’ve since cut back to one a day, since I’m worried soda will turn out to be our generation’s cigarettes.  (And you know how I feel about cigarettes!  But at least when I drink Diet Coke, no one around me is forced to drink it too!!)

Horror or Romance?

Can’t I have both?

Pizza or Pasta?

Ditto.

Do you prefer a bunch of small gifts or one big expensive one?

Even more ditto!

What is your favorite way to spend a rainy day?

The same way I spend most of my other days – chilling at home with my cat on my lap and something delicious on the stove.  I love my life. J

Stitch by Samantha Durante

Her heart races, her muscles coil, and every impulse in Alessa’s body screams at her to run… but yet she’s powerless to move.
Still struggling to find her footing after the sudden death of her parents, the last thing college freshman Alessa has the strength to deal with is the inexplicable visceral pull drawing her to a handsome ghostly presence. In between grappling with exams and sorority soirees – and disturbing recurring dreams of being captive in a futuristic prison hell – Alessa is determined to unravel the mystery of the apparition who leaves her breathless. But the terrifying secret she uncovers will find her groping desperately through her nightmares for answers.
Because what Alessa hasn’t figured out yet is that she’s not really a student, the object of her obsession is no ghost, and her sneaking suspicions that something sinister is lurking behind the walls of her university’s idyllic campus are only just scratching the surface…
The opening installment in a twist-laden trilogy, Stitch spans the genres of paranormal romance and dystopian sci-fi to explore the challenges of a society in transition, where morality, vision, and pragmatism collide leaving the average citizen to suffer the results.

http://www.samanthadurante.com/2012-blog-tour-schedule

Giveaway Details
1 copy of Stitch
Print copy open to US only, Ebook open Internationally
Ends 9/20/12


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Author Interview & Book Giveaway: Alexander Drake's Extraordinary Pursuit by Elizabeth Bellows

Welcome to Author Elizabeth Bellows.

Being the frizzy-haired tomboy with buck teeth gave me a slight case of shyness as a kid. A colorful imagination meant escape and adventure at the drop of a hat.

Over the years I learned that the insecurities I carried around were a waste of time. I still prefer a football game to a manicure any day of the week. That indispensable imagination has found its way into my writing providing a sense of joy and a true purpose.

Links:  
http://www.azraspithbooks.com/
https://twitter.com/lizzypbellows

Interview:

Any other books in the works? Goals for future projects? 
Alexander Drake is part 1 of a series. I’m almost done revising part 2, “The Return of General Drake”. I would love for it to be out by the end of the year. Part 3, “The Butterfly Curse” is almost done; though I’m sure there will be revisions… lots and lots of revisions.

If you could jump in to a book, and live in that world... which would it be?
Azra’s Pith, of course!  I do my best to jump in every day. There is magic, adventure and lots of colorful characters… I wouldn’t mind side trips to Narnia or Middle Earth every now and again.

What's one piece of advice you would give aspiring authors?
Two words to remember are patience and perseverance.  The process takes time and rushing any part of it only hurts the story you have worked so hard to publish. I could paper mache my house with rejection letters and previous drafts of Alexander Drake. Not giving up and taking critical advice from other writers and editors helped me a great deal.

When you were little, what did you want to be when you "grew up"?
I wanted to be an archeologist/ anthropologist/ adventurer. Scratch that - I wanted to be Indiana Jones. As you can clearly see, I had a real grip on reality as a kid.

Can you see yourself in any of your characters?
Alexander is a day dreamer, a little uncoordinated, shy and imaginative; which are qualities I had as a youngster. Thankfully I had imaginary friends to keep me company.

How do you react to a bad review?
I am extremely grateful when someone has taken the time to write a review regardless of whether it is good or bad. We all have different preferences; especially when it comes to what we read. Being thick skinned is a survival trait for writers.

If you were a bird, which one would you be?
Oooh, I love this question! In Azra’s pith there are Empyrean Wizards. Each wizard has a bird form. I would want to be a wise old owl. They are so darn enchanting and mysterious. They make great birds for fantasy.

One food you would never eat?
Oysters… given their general appearance and slimy texture I’m not sure if I even need to explain this one too much.

Favorite Food?
Avocados... chocolate is a close second.

Favorite smell?
This could very well confuse the senses; but I have to call It is a toss up between plumeria and garlic and butter sautéing in a pan.

Favorite sport?
Soccer is my favorite sport to play; I grew up in a soccer family. Football is my favorite spectator sport.  I am a huge Charger fan. This is the time of the year when I am filled with anticipation and optimism. This disappointment comes in January when another dismal season comes to an end.

TV or Movies?
Movies – especially the classics; you can’t go wrong with a bogie flick like “Casa Blanca” or “The African Queen”.

Facebook or Twitter?
I wish I could say both. Unfortunately I am not skilled at using twitter. Facebook is easy enough and more fun for now.

Alexander Drake's Extraordinary Pursuite by Elizabeth Parkinson-Bellows

Meet Alexander Drake, a curious young man living in a drab, oversized mansion with his secretive father. He spent his days playing alone. In the back of his mind he wondered what happened to his mother, and why his father was tight-lipped about the past; but secrets have a way of getting out.
It all started with a stay at his grandmother’s cottage. Alexander found strange clues tucked away in his father’s old bedroom. With a mysterious key and several maps in his pack he set off on an innocent search for answers about his family.
When he discovered a secret passageway the search took a dramatic turn. He suddenly worried about what was searching for him. Alexander was being hunted by a sorcerer from his father’s past. Answers lead to more questions and the journey of his life.
Join Alexander for a thrilling adventure in Azra’s Pith, a place of beauty and magic… but beware—something evil lurks in the shadows.

Giveaway Details
1 copy of Alexander Drake's Extraordinary Pursuit
Paperback open to US only, Ebook open Internationally
Ends 9/17/12

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Author Interview & Book Giveaway: Defending Happiness by Amy Shea

Welcome to Author Amy Shea.

Amy Shea's first short story was featured in a national magazine when she was just 13 years old. She has continued to write throughout her life, publishing numerous poems in literary journals and anthologies, receiving the prestigous Dylan Thomas Poetry Fellowship in Paris, France, sponsored by the Paris Review, as well as a coveted residency at the world-famous MacDowell Colony. Delighting in narration, Ms. Shea continues as a chronicler of human behavior, with her book of short  stories, "Defending Happiness, and other acts of bravery." In this collection she shares, with unsparing wit and candor, her take on mother/daughter relationships, parenthood, and the unfortunate lack of speed-bumps in online dating. Her hilarious account of aging, along with her tough and tender story of being diagnosed with breast cancer, take the reader on a deeply-felt ride, each account making Ms. Shea's point: it's not enough to find your bliss; you have to fight for it.

Links:
https://twitter.com/ashea2009
http://www.facebook.com/defendinghappiness
http://defendinghappiness.com/

Interview:
Please tell us in one sentence only, why we should read your book.
You will have a good hard laugh, while being reminded that your happiness is worth breaking a sweat over.

Tell us your most rewarding experience since being published.
I was on Facebook, avoiding loading the dishwasher. As I was scanning a page, about ready to click and move on, I saw the title of my book in a post from a person I did not know. It turns out she had bought the book. She was taking it to the beach with her, and commenting on how much she loved the stories, recommending it to her friend. Just coming upon it like that, seeing evidence that it was out in the world now, making its way, turned me into a weeping toddler.  I cried for twenty minutes, then put myself down for a nap.

What was your favorite book when you were a child/teen?
Sherlock Holmes. I believed in the power of deduction, that paying very close attention to clues would get me out of the projects--which was a very dangerous and dull place--and into a better life. I was right about that.

What's one piece of advice you would give aspiring authors?
Write. Eat. Sleep. Repeat.

What is your favorite Quote?
The closing line of Alfred Lord Tennyson's poem, Ulysses: “To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield.”

When you were little, what did you want to be when you "grew up"?
Tall. I believed there were a lot of wonderful things going on above my sight line that I was missing out on. Beyond that, I wanted to be an actress. My father proclaimed regularly that I was, so I moved on to writer, my thespian dreams fulfilled.

How did you know you should become an author?
Writing chose me, so it must have known something I didn't. I'm better at writing than anything else I can do, especially math and golf. My face is on posters in golf clubhouses across our great nation. Turns out golfers hold a grudge when you maim their caddy. He didn't need that surgery in the end, but they never got over it.

Who are your favorite authors of all time?
Any one of them that ever wrote one original and honest thought, especially when no one was paying them.

What's the best advice anyone has ever given you?
A 100 year-old woman was asked what advice she had for a long life. She said, "don't stop." I will pass that along. Also, don't cut your own hair.

If you were a super hero what would your kryptonite be?
Harm coming to my children. I would be like Harrison Ford in Air Force One. I don't negotiate with terrorists until they have my kid. Then I'd discuss Heidegger for three hours, without alcohol.

Which authors have influence you most how?
Shakespeare, because he was unrestricted. He was funny, subtle, bawdy, deft, and intelligent all in the same piece. I adore how inclusive his work was, both of the writer's nature and the audience's range. That makes the work layered, and I admire that.

In your wildest dreams, which author would you love to co-author a book with?
Stephen King. He sells a lot of books, and I have a very macabre imagination. I think it would work out for both of us.

Favorite quote from a movie?
“You cannot find peace by avoiding life.” That's spoken by the Virginia Woolf character in "The Hours" after she has pleaded with her husband to support her living her life on her own terms.

What is something people would be surprised to know about you?
That I've been able to make a living off my wits. I know I'm constantly surprised by it.

Defending Happiness

Defending Happiness, and Other Acts of Bravery is a book about fighting for your bliss. The collection of stories demonstrates how one woman faced off with breast cancer, online dating, and motherhood, using audacity and wit to not only survive, but repeatedly reclaim her human right to happiness.

Giveaway Details
1 copy of Defending Happiness
Open to US only
Ends 9/17/12


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Author Interview & Book Giveaway: Count Down to Love by Julie Ford

Welcome to Author Julie Ford

Julie has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and a minor in English Literature from San Diego State University. In addition, she earned a Masters in Social Work from the University of Alabama. She has worked in teaching, childbirth education and family therapy. Besides writing, she spends many hours working along side her husband at their UPS Store franchise, but hopes to re-enter the Social Work field someday.

She is the author of three women’s fiction novels, The Woman He Married (March 2011) and No Holly for Christmas (November 2011), published by Whiskey Creek Press. The third, Count Down to Love (July 2011), published by Bonneville Books.

Currently, she lives in Nashville, TN with her husband, two daughters and one very feisty fish.

Links:

• Website: http://julienford.com/
• Blog: http://julienford.com/blog
• Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/JulieNFord.Author
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/JulieNFord

Interview:
If you could invite any 5 people to dinner who would you choose?
Elvis Costello, Kristin Hannah, Kevin Spacey, President Monson and President Obama.

If you could have any superpower what would you choose?
This question made me laugh. Last year my daughter’s teacher asked her class this very question. My daughter’s answer was—photosynthesis. Everyone else wanted to fly or run at light speed, but she simply wanted the ability to convert carbon to oxygen. As for me, I’d just like to be better at coma placement. Seriously, the ability to punctuate correctly would be considered a superpower for someone like me.

If you could meet one person who has died who would you choose?
C. S. Lewis

Please tell us in one sentence only, why we should read your book.
Count Down to Love is an entertaining story that will make readers laugh a little, but is also the journey of one young woman who, like the rest of us, desperately needs to find her true self.

Any other books in the works? Goals for future projects? 
My next novel is titled The Cadaver Ball and will be coming out sometime in 2013. It’s a women’s fiction/mystery about a woman from Southern California who meets the man of her dreams when she attends Vanderbilt Medical School’s, Cadaver Ball, with her college roommate. One year later she is married and living in Nashville with two step sons and has a sneaky suspicion that something doesn’t feel right regarding her husband’s first wife’s death. Being the curious person that she is, she just can’t help but go poking into the past, which lands her right in the middle of a dangerous conspiracy. The story is sort of a modern twist on the Rebecca and Jane Eyre novels.
Currently, I’m working on a screenplay.

What inspired you to want to become a writer?
I never “decided” to become a writer per se. I’ve always had stories in my head that I would play around with but never really considered turning any of them into a novel. Then, about five years ago, I had just finished chemotherapy treatments for Lymphoma when we moved to a new city. I didn’t know anyone, my girls were in school and I was at home waiting for my hair to grow back when the dialogue and narration for my first novel just started coming to me—insistent, almost, that I let it out. I thought I might as well go ahead and write some of it. So one day I sat down at the computer and started my first chapter. A friend of mine, Gail, agreed to read it and encouraged me to keep going. So I guess you could say that she, along with my husband and my first editor, Heather, inspired me.

What was your favorite book when you were a child/teen? 
Penelope Jane: A Fairy’s Tale. She’s the ultimate eyelash-high fairy. She only trying to help but ends up causing a bit of trouble—the story of my life.

Is there a song you could list as the theme song for your book or any of your characters?
It’s funny you should ask because Count Down to Love actually has a song that accompanies the book. As the story unfolds, I thought it would be fun to have Kelly writing a song that echoes her journey and feelings through her music. Together with Brad Hull from Due West and singer/songwriter Aaron McBride, we created a ballad titled, Who I Am.
Visit my web site, JulieNFord.com, to hear the song.

What's one piece of advice you would give aspiring authors?
Write because you love it, because the voices in your head won’t let you rest until you free them onto the page (or computer screen), because to stop is not an option. Keep writing when you get discouraged because even if you never make a dime off your work, the journey was well worth the effort.

How do you react to a bad review?
Truthfully, not so well. Sometimes I even get seriously blocked. But I’m getting better. I mean honestly, I don’t like every book I read, so how can I expect everyone who reads my novels to love, or even like, them?

Skittles or M&Ms?
M&Ms

Favorite music?
Alternative/Pop/Rock

Favorite smell?
Cinnamon or Pine. Or, Cinnamon mixed with Pine

Favorite sport?
Football

Print or Ebook?
Print

Chocolate or Vanilla?
Chocolate, preferably of the dark variety.

Regular or Diet?
Regular

Coke or Pepsi?
Coke with real sugar.

Action or Drama?
Both/Either

Sweet or Salty?
Together

PC or Mac?
Mac

Count Down to Love

Abandoned at the altar, Kelly Grace Pickens finds herself left holding not only the bouquet but also the exorbitant bill for an A-list wedding. Homeless, a once promising singing career floundering, and her life bearing an uncanny resemblance to one of her country music ballads, she reluctantly accepts a last minute offer to appear on a reality TV show akin to the bachelor. Pitted against silicon-enhanced supermodels in four-inch heels, Kelly feels confident that she will be among the first would-be fiancés to be excused. Only, when the mysterious bachelor from New York City, Dillon Black, invites her to stay, Kelly finds herself thrust into the vortex of a game she doesn’t have the first idea how to play. Nursing her hopelessly broken heart while avoiding the foils of her fellow contestants, Kelly is oblivious to Dillon’s affections as she wades through hurt and betrayal to discover, in the end, that she has landed firmly on both feet.

Leaving behind Nashville’s Music Row for the majestic Grand Teton mountains, Count Down To Love takes readers on a journey from duplicity to sincerity as Kelly discovers that being true to oneself is the first step in finding happiness and everlasting love.

http://thebookbug-hogan.blogspot.com/p/count-down-to-love-blog-tour.html

Grand Prize Giveaway:

As part of the tour, Julie is generously offering a grand prize giveaway of a hard copy of Count Down to Love, a CD of the band Due West, and a copy of the single, “Who I Am”, which Julie and Due West wrote and recorded specifically for the book. All you have to do to enter is leave a comment on this post or any of the other stops on the tour. (Visit the tour page for the full tour schedule.) The more stops you comment on, the more entries you have into the contest!

Giveaway Details:
1 ebook of Count Down to Love
Open Internationally
Ends 9/17/12

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Author Interview: Pike's Quest by K.J. Bennett + Orangeberry Giveaway

Welcome to Author Kevin Bennett

I am a public servant: my employers have a rule that I can have a business interest as long as I don't use my job title to further it, so I can't say what I do. However, a small amount of digging on the internet will possibly give it away. I am a father of two teens - one male, one female, both headstrong, both wonderful (alternating with not-so-wonderful moments), and I am husband to the lovely Theresa (I am not worthy). I was born in August 1957 - that should save me from having to alter my age on a regular basis (well, annually, at least).

Oh, and I write. Nearly forgot that bit.

"Pike's Quest" is my first published novel and it's intended to be fun. Broadly, it would be classified as "Young Adult", but at various readings I've had groups of adults laughing out loud - hopefully at the content!

In the pipe-line I have a sequel to "Pike's Quest", and a more adult sci-fi thriller. I hope to achieve mainstream publication in the future.

http://pikesquest.blogspot.com/

http://kj-bennett.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Pikes-Quest/217399291625570
https://twitter.com/kj_bennett

Interview:
Name one food you would never eat?

Rhubarb: possibly the worst food ever to be grown in the soil.

If you could travel in a Time Machine would you go back to the past or into the future?

I think it would have to be the past. I’ve always been fascinated by biblical tales, but I’m not a believer. I think everyone has the right to have faith, but I’m not at all spiritual. I’d love to travel back to the dawn of Christianity and see, first hand, what actually happened.

Pet Peeves?

I have many pet peeves, but the main one at present is that of prejudice, on principle, against indie authors. Some people believe that simply because a book hasn’t been snapped up by a major publishing house it must be rubbish. Now, imagine the furore if I were to suggest that all people with large ears were criminal, because I once saw someone with large ears being arrested!

There are whole blog strands dedicated to ridiculing independent authors and their products, based on nothing but the fact that someone once read a self-published book that was badly edited or poorly written. Well, many mainstream, commercially published books have the same faults. Yes, there are people self-publishing who have no idea about the basics of writing, but these days you can download a sample and don’t have to spend money to filter them out. Normally the first couple of pages will be a give-away as to the quality within.

Seriously: does anyone really think that MacDonald’s do the best food in the world and that Mabel’s Cafe can’t compete, simply because it’s not been swallowed up by a global conglomerate? Or that Billy Bloggs the plumber is useless because he is self-employed and not part of a national plumbing chain?

Please, judge me on quality, not on assumptions. If you don’t like the free sample on Amazon, fine, don’t buy it, but don’t accuse me of being rubbish simply because the “Big 6” didn’t publish me.

Please tell us in one sentence only, why we should read your book.

It’s funny, entertaining, suitable for anyone aged 12 to 112, and is well-written.

Any other books in the works? Goals for future projects? 

I am part-way through writing the sequel – Pike’s ReQuest. I hope to have that out (at least on Kindle) by the end of this year. I have a less child-friendly novel called Rathbone Kydd, which is a thriller of sorts.  It’s ready to go, but I can only spare so much time to promoting my books, and having that out while I’m still plugging Pike could be difficult.  Also, Pike’s Quest has just been released in paperback, so I have to double my promotional efforts. I’d love to write full time, but so far my income from writing won’t support me.

What inspired you to want to become a writer?

Reading.

As a child I was always lost in books. They detracted from some of the less savoury aspects of my childhood. I had no money, no mother, poor education, and we were constantly moving from home to home across various parts of England, so my friendship groups were regularly shattered. The only constant was reading. I could rely on books to help me escape. They fuelled my imagination.

What's one piece of advice you would give aspiring authors?

Before trying to write the next big blockbuster, read. Lots. Then read some more. Analyse what makes you read on, and try it out.

What is your favorite Quote?

“Genius is one percent inspiration, ninety-nine percent perspiration.” (Thomas Eddison)

I’m already 99% there.

How did you know you should become an author?

When, aged 14 years, I started writing a story in an English lesson, and had to ask for two more exercise books to finish it off.

Can you see yourself in any of your characters?

Always, even the female ones!

Hidden talent?

I’ve hidden many thinks in my life, and I honestly don’t think talent was amongst them. Actually, some who have read my work suggest that my talent as a writer remains well hidden.

You have won one million dollars what is the first thing that you would buy?

First off, I’d prefer one million pounds, sterling – it’s worth more! I’d by a diamond ring for my wife, as she’s never really had any expensive jewellery and would dearly love one.

Which authors have influence you most, and  how?

Stephen King, Colin Bateman and, although more a screen writer, Joss Whedon. They all have great talents in using suspense, humour and character to drive the plot. I am of the opinion that the plot can be wafer-thin, as long as the characters are engaging and drive the story along, picking up as many passengers as they can.

What do you do in your free time? 

When I get some, I’ll let you know.

How did you celebrate the sale of your first book?

Very quietly. I looked at my Amazon KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing) account and said to Theresa, my wife, “Oh look, I’ve sold a copy.” Then we washed the dishes. However, I celebrated the release of Pike’s Quest in paper form by taking my wife out for a French meal. I’m still trying to figure out how many copies I have to shift to pay the bill.

What is your guilty pleasure?

Writing. I always feel that I should be doing other stuff, and that writing is me being selfish. But I’m driven, so I can’t stop.

In your wildest dreams, which author would you love to co-author a book with?

Colin Bateman. He’s an Irish author who writes comedy crime thrillers and he’s simply brilliant.

What is one book everyone should read?

Without any doubt whatsoever, everyone should read Pike’s Quest. But I only say that because this is all about self-publicity. If you have any cash left after buying Pike, read Driving Big Davie by Colin Bateman. It’s in the middle of a series of books featuring a character named Dan Starkey, but it got me hooked on Bateman’s writing. I caught up on the back catalogue and enjoyed Driving Big Davie all over again but in a different way.

Tell us your most rewarding experience since being published.

November 27, 2011: I received my first Amazon review from someone who I’d never met. FIVE STARS! It was a form of validation that convinced me I was writing something people might appreciate.

If you were a super hero what would your kryptonite be?

Now we’re back to rhubarb. The stuff is vomit-inducing.

Pike's Quest

In a future where horses are revered as gifts of the gods, and sheep and hounds are the beasts of burden, ancient magicks have been rediscovered. But there are those who wish to uncover the technology of the past and take control of the world for their own evil ends. Now, more than ever, the world needs a hero.
In the hamlet of Ooze, a fish-faced, flaky-skinned youth commences a quest: to win the heart of the fair maiden at the Pit of Zidor, and to release Moorlock the Warlock from captivity. Accompanied by a garrulous sparrow and a belligerent horse, Pike is captured and employed by the lisping Lord Nairey du Well and then pursued by the deadly huntress, Scarlet Deadnight.
Pike discovers:
- that fair maidens are not always female,
- that they can prove to be deadly foes, and
- the true value of a good moisturiser!
This comic fantasy turns the genre on its head and is a must for readers of all ages.

http://www.orangeberrybooktours.com/2012/07/orangeberry-summer-splash-giveaway.html

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Author Interview: Dr. Von Thistle's Curious Concoction by K.G. Wehner

Welcome to Author K.G. Wehner

K.G. Wehner and her younger sister, Michelle, had many imaginary friends, many of whom appear in K.G.’s Amy & Tracy series. When they weren’t coming up with plays, musicals, or stories, they were spying on their neighbors or getting into all kinds of trouble. Much of what will be played out in K.G.’s novels.

K.G. is a creative writing instructor as well as a writer’s workshop facilitator for her local Barnes and Noble bookstore. Besides writing middle grade novels, she writes young adult novels under the name K.L. Gore. Her work has been published in Beginnings Magazine and CICADA.

http://kgwehner.wordpress.com/
https://www.facebook.com/KGWehner
https://twitter.com/KGWehner1

Interview:
If you could travel in a Time Machine would you go back to the past or into the future?

I’d go into the past, preferably the seventh grade. Instead of meekly allowing the evil bully to throw spitballs into my frizzy hair or take the chairs from beneath my scrawny butt, I’ll walk up to him, calmly look him in the eye, and punch him in the nose. Hard. As I’m marched to the Principal’s office by the teacher who witnesses this compulsory act of violence, I will feel justified. It will be the first of many victories over my opponents.

If you were stranded on a desert island what 3 things would you want with you?

My children (although technically they aren’t “things”), my Kindle, and it’s a toss-up between my computer and chocolate.

What is one book everyone should read?

Watership Down by Richard Adams. It has everything: Peace. War. Governmental rule. Oppression. Love. Hate. Poverty. Riches. Rabbits. I’ve read it four times, starting from when I was thirteen, and each time I cried at the end. But the message has stayed with me all these years: What would you risk for freedom?

If you were a superhero what would your name be?

Laundry Woman, because I’m saving clothes from dirt and grime on a daily basis.

If you could have any superpower what would you choose?

To read minds. My husband would frequently be in big trouble, but at least I’d be able to figure out what my kids want before they started throwing tantrums. Plus, I’d know whether or not I’m a boring conversationalist. Hm. Then again, maybe I’d rather not know.

What is your favorite thing to eat for breakfast?

Pancakes. Preferably from IHop or Perkins. Smothered in maple syrup. A tiny dab of butter on top. What do I really eat? Cheerios in Almond milk. It’s supposed to be a healthier choice and lower my cholesterol. But I’d rather have light, fluffy, golden-brown pancakes. (Is your mouth watering as much as mine right now?)

Any other books in the works? Goals for future projects? 

I’ve written the next book in the Amy & Tracy series, and now I’m working on its revision. I’m also editing the first book of a novel series for boys, which I hope to publish either late this year or early next. The first book is finished, but I need to be sure I have drafts written for the next two. I like to be prepared, or at least feel as if I am.

Tell us your most rewarding experience since being published.

A preteen girl read my book and her parent put her (very flattering) review on Amazon. I was surprised and touched. Especially when she mentioned she wanted to read the next one in the series. Is there anything better than realizing your audience liked you…they really liked you? I think not.

What's one piece of advice you would give aspiring authors?

Read about and implement the rules of writing. Not just grammar and spelling, but also plot, conflict, and characterization. A book is like a machine. If one gear isn’t turning, the others remain motionless. I know it seems that if one reads books, one can write them, but it’s not that simple. I listen to music all the time, but ask me to play the piano, and you’ll be sorry. All art must be studied and learned, and picking up a “how to” book is only the beginning. Once you understand the basics, you can even break some of the rules. But you need to know what you’re doing first.

If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be?

New York City, preferably Manhattan. I spent a summer in Brooklyn, and I could kick myself for leaving, but I wanted to finish college. And then I moved to Raleigh because I heard there were tons of broadcasting jobs (there weren’t), but then my mom became ill, so I moved back to upstate New York. Then I married and had kids. But my dream job would be to become an agent, so boy do I wish I were living in N.Y.C.

What is your favorite Quote?

“Do more than belong: participate. Do more than care: help. Do more than believe: practice. Do more than be fair: be kind. Do more than forgive: forget. Do more than dream: work.” -William Arthur Ward

How did you know you should become an author?

As a child I loved to create characters. I spent morning, noon, and night writing stories, drawing people, or play-acting. I created my first play when I was five. Wrote my first full novel at 13 (and a sequel after that). A year or two later I attempted to write a novel without using any dialogue. Although I succeeded, I wouldn’t suggest it. Very dull, a lot of telling. Oddly enough, it was in college when I considered writing as a career. I’d always acted in plays throughout high school, so I decided to major in theater. I ended up writing a play, and the college theater department produced it onstage. When I saw the reaction from the audience—laughter and tears in all the right places—that was all it took to hook me. I practiced writing short stories and novels (years and years of practice, hundreds of short stories, seven novels), bought books on how to write, took classes, attended writers conferences. After dedicating half my life to studying the craft, I’ve finally published my first book.

Who are your favorite authors of all time?

Elizabeth Strout, Anne Tyler, Margaret Atwood, Ellen Potter, Kimberly Edwards, Christopher Pike, Joan Lowery-Nixon, Chris Crutcher, Linda Sue Park, I could go on and on.

Can you see yourself in any of your characters?

I firmly believe we write our psychology into our protagonists. The characters in my book, Amy and Tracy, are people my sister and I invented as children. I had to flesh them out for my novel, so I gave them aspects of our personalities, and then exaggerated them. You must exaggerate your characters a little to make them larger than life. If I’d written Amy and Tracy exactly as my sister and I were when we were younger, you’d be snoozing by page five.

What's the best advice anyone has ever given you?

When I was younger, a stranger asked me a question. Too shy to respond, I said nothing. He shouted, “When someone asks you a question, you answer!” It scared the Kool-Aid out of me, but I learned a valuable lesson. To this day I don’t remember what he asked, but I still recall my humiliation. His advice pertains to writing, as well. If your story raises a question, don’t anger your readers by not answering it.

If you could have a signed copy of any novel what would it be and why?

Actually, I already do! Elizabeth Strout is one of my favorite authors for adult literary fiction, and I had the opportunity to hear her speak. Having come to the event alone, I struck up a conversation with the woman sitting beside me. She asked if I was attending the meet-and-greet afterward. I hadn’t known about it, but by chance I’d purchased the most expensive ticket, which happened to be the one needed to get into the author signing. Not only did I meet Elizabeth Strout and receive her signature on the books I’d brought with me, but I was able to tell her what an influence she’d had on my YA writing, which I write under a different pen name. She is an amazing woman, brilliant and sweet. I’ll never forget meeting her. Seeing her signature in my books still makes me smile.

Which authors have influenced you most how?

I love to read children’s books. By far one of the best authors out there is Ellen Potter. I love her subtle humor and her characters’ complex psychologies. She has influenced me through her amazing creativity and attention to detail. J.K. Rowling has been a big influence on my middle grade work as well. I was reading her novels when I decided to write my Amy & Tracy series. I loved the way she used action to drive the story. But my biggest influence? (And I know this will sound strange.) Charles Schulz. As a child, his Peanuts comics were my favorite serial stories. My characters were born from his work.

What's your favorite season/weather?

I love autumn when the leaves are exploding with color and the air hasn’t yet made that sharp descent into cold. There’s nothing like wearing jeans and a T-shirt and walking through the woods, inspired by nature’s beauty. Even better is walking with children who help you discover what you would otherwise miss, like the snake curled up at the base of the tree or a beetle camouflaged amongst the branches.

What TV show/movie/book do you watch/read that you'd be embarrassed to admit?

The only shows I sit down to watch are probably the worst time wasters:Big Brother and Survivor. I watch them because they’re filled with quirky characters and amusing competitions. Plus, the shows answer a question I never knew I was curious about: what’s it like to live with people you’re forced to spend every waking moment with whether you like them or not?

Favorite places to travel?

On our honeymoon, my husband and I toured New England, stopping at all the great museums. It was the best vacation ever. I can’t wait until my kids are old enough to appreciate Mark Twain and Harriet Beecher Stowe. I plan take them with me so I can see it all again. Rhode Island is gorgeous. The mansion tour is incredible. I highly recommend it.

Favorite music?

I will never tire of Blondie, Pat Benatar, or the Go-Go’s. Plus, I consider Prince and Phil Collins musical geniuses. Yes, I love 80’s music. Some songs were about what it means to love, be loved, or lose love. Others might discuss politics, music, or events from the past. They weren’t written for shock value like so many songs today. Yes, I realize I sound like an old fogey. (A favorite story within a song? “Parents Just Don’t Understand” by DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince.)

Dr. Von Thistle's Curious Concoction (The Miss-Adventures of Amy and Tracy)

It’s 1958. Eleven-year-old cousins Amy and Tracy Cimino are burdened by pounding drums only they can hear. Amy feels it’s linked to her recent nightmare. Although Amy often has dreams that come true, Tracy isn’t worried. She’s much too busy coming up with a talent she can showcase on a popular radio show.

When a well-known scientist shows up at their mothers’ big gala, all their guests are smitten with him. Except Amy, who feels he is the man in her nightmare. Tracy thinks Amy is making a big deal out of nothing. What would a famous scientist want with ordinary ol’ them?

Except Amy and Tracy are anything but ordinary. They can speak with each other telepathically. And while Amy predicts the future through dreams, Tracy discovers she has her own amazing talent…one she can’t share with the world. In trying to escape the evil scientist who is intent on kidnapping them, they find time portals that send Amy to the future while Tracy becomes stuck in the past.

Amy’s nightmare does seem to be coming true after all. Can they escape the evil scientist once and for all, or might they be trapped in different time periods separated from each other forever?

http://www.orangeberrybooktours.com/2012/07/orangeberry-summer-splash-giveaway.html

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Author Interview & Book Giveaway: The Flight of the Griffin by C.M. Gray

Welcome to Author Christopher Gray

Blog:
http://flightofthegriffin.blogspot.com/
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/cgray129

Interview:
If you were stranded on a desert island what 3 things would you want with you?

A fire starter machine thingy... a fishing outfit and Maria Kirilenko to ...errr... play tennis with:)

What is one book everyone should read?

Anything by John Steinbeck. It was only after reading his writing that I realised there really is a difference between an average writer and the very best. I can only aspire to one day come close to his level of work.

What is your favorite flavor of ice cream?

Green tea Ice cream available from my local sushi shop, it’s incredible!

One food you would never eat?

Meat. I’ve been vegetarian for over thirty years ... cant quit remember why it all started now but it must have been a good idea at the time and the thought now of eating bits of cow etc just.... I’m pretty messed up on my food likes as I do eat fish. I guess Maria Kirilenko and I wouldn’t starve on that island at least.

Please tell us in one sentence only, why we should read your book.

You should read The Flight of the Griffin because it won’t be like any other book you’ve read, its getting a bunch of five star reviews, will entertain you from start to finish and the author is a really great guy!

Any other books in the works? Goals for future projects? 

The Flight of the Griffin is my second book, my first book is also available, it’s called Shadowland and is the story of Uther Pendragon, father of Arthur; he of the Knights of the round table and Sword Excalibur. I’m about four chapters from finishing a sequel to The Flight of the Griffin. The first book is stand alone but I loved writing with these characters so much I just knew there was another story with them, and there is!

What inspired you to want to become a writer?

I got bored with television. Coming home from work and sitting down so my brain could rot in front of the tube. The final straw was when I realised, when watching the commercials one day that I had no idea what show I was watching! I had heard for years that ‘everybody has a book or two inside them’ so I thought I would see what was in me. Im so glad I did because writing is so much more fulfilling that watching tv or even reading a good book, it’s a combination of them both with a little computer gaming thrown in for good measure!

Tell us your most rewarding experience since being published.

Getting the first reviews that weren’t from friends or relatives. People that I didn’t know that had bought my book and were telling me how great it was. This was a real confirmation that I was on to something. Writing is awesome, but it’s like cooking a great meal, you may think it tastes good but it’s when a stranger dips in and tells you that you can cook that you can smile and start to celebrate.

What's one piece of advice you would give aspiring authors?

I would advise anyone that is thinking of writing to just jump right in and start taping away at a computer. Some people plot things out and have a good plan as to what they’re writing but my style is just to write and see where its going. Find a great first line and then see where it will take you. I would also advise, very strongly, to get and editor as soon as you’ve finished your own attempts at editing. The biggest complaint for Indie authors is that their work is badly edited and contains lots of typos and spelling mistakes. The author goes blind to these so you need an independent professional t really go through your work. Don’t think you can do it yourself.

If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be?

I’ve been very lucky to have lived all over the world. I’m English but left home when I was seventeen to live and work in France, then down to Greece. I then lived in Israel, India, Hong Kong, The Philippines, back to Europe into Amsterdam then France again and now I live and work in Spain. I love living here and have a house in the woods just outside Barcelona. My only neighbours are the wild boar yet I am only half hours drive from one of the greatest cities in the world!

When you were little, what did you want to be when you "grew up"?

When I was young all I wanted to do was travel. My grandparents had a book showing pictures of all over the world and it was fascinating to me. I’ve now seen a whole lot of those places, travelled into some crazy scenes and had my fare share of ‘narrow escapes.’ I think some of these experiences come across in my writing. I have a whole catalogue of strange happenings to draw upon!

What's the best advice anyone has ever given you?

Turn off the television.

Favorite Food?

I love spicy hot food after living for so long in Asia and if it is my choice would eat Thai or Indian food every night. When I came back from India the first time I couldn’t eat anything that didn’t have chillies in, normal European food tasted like cardboard! I also like Sushi with lots of wasabi:)

What do you do in your free time? 

I love to go fishing, yet catch very little. Not by design its just that I’m not that bothered. I just love to be with my son, he’s eleven, out in the countryside watching the river gently slip past. Living in the woods means we also spend a lot of time walking with our two dogs, exploring the hillsides and forests of Catalonia. I also play guitar, but you may not want to listen as I’m no talent!

Favorite places to travel?

Anywhere ‘off the beaten track.’ When I went to India, I took a copy of the lonely planet guide, the most popular guide for travellers, and then ignored all the recommended places!

The Flight of the Griffin

Living in their old boat ‘The Griffin’ five young characters become the unlikely heroes at the end of time when a burglary sets them on the path to finish the ‘Last great Spell’ - a spell to stop the balance of the World tipping into Chaos...

They become the Magician, Thief, Priest and Fighter when a magical book guides them upon a quest that pits them against magic, demons and ‘The Hawk,’ an evil hunter of men.

Join a race against time to find three crystal skulls that must be brought together, while all the forces of Chaos try everything to stop them!



Giveaway Details
1 paperback of The Flight of the Griffin
1 ebook of The Flight of the Griffin
Open Internationally
Ends 9/16/12


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