What have you had published?
Mirror’s Hope is my fifth published novel. The first was Neo Central; a love story and coming of age novel set in a futuristic dystopia. After that, I wrote and published the Crimson Winter trilogy which follows a Japanese high school student named Yukari as she is transported to another planet and told that it is her destiny to save it from a man known only as the ‘Vile Emperor.’
What genre(s) of book do you write?
Most of my books are a blend of science-fiction and fantasy. Mirror’s Hope is my first romance, but it is still set in a dark fantasy world. I prefer to write books that are set on another world or that are a re-imagining of this one.
What inspired you to write your first book?
I’ve been writing a long time, but usually it is role-playing with friends that inspires me. I bounce ideas off of my friends and come up with vivid worlds and characters for them. Usually if they really like what I’ve come up with then I know that I have the beginnings of a good book. My first published book, Neo Central, I wrote with my sister, Murandy Damodred and a friend of ours, Lori Rule. We wrote it as a conversation on an internet forum and it evolved from there into the full length novel it is today.
How long did it take you to write “Mirror’s Hope”?
Three months. It’s about three hundred pages and my sister and I set ourselves a goal of a hundred pages a month. We mostly kept to that goal and had a complete story after three months. The editing and re-working took longer, of course.
What is the working title of your next book(s)?
We’ve just finished writing the sequel to Mirror’s Hope and it’s called Mirror’s Heart. It’s going out to test readers now. As of the other day we’ve begun brainstorming for our next book, but it doesn’t have a working title yet; it’s still too soon for that. However, we will be blogging about the world that we’re developing for this next story which will be fantasy/romance as well. At the moment we’re planning what I’m calling a ‘letter campaign’ which will showcase letters sent from one character to another each week on our blog.
When and why did you begin writing?
I’ve always wanted to be a published author. It’s been my dream for as long as I can remember. The first novel I ever wrote was when I was fifteen. It was about anthropomorphic cats. It was terrible, but I learned a lot from the process and in the end that’s what matters.
Do you self publish your books or go through an agency?
I started by self-publishing and learned a lot doing it. I’m still learning, but with the launch of Mirror’s Hope, Murandy Damodred and I have opened up our own publishing company, Mirror World Publishing and we’re happy to be accepting submissions from other authors and helping them to do what we’ve always wanted to.
What part of writing books do you find the hardest?
Keeping your momentum. I don’t tend to do a lot of planning before starting to write and whatever planning I do is usually in my head and not on paper, so I find it important to write as often as I am able to keep myself ‘in the story.’ If I take too many days off I find it difficult to pick up where I left off and the writing goes slower as I try to get back into the swing of things.
What do you do in your spare time?
I love to role-play with friends. I have a background in theatre and am fortunate to have made friends with very creative people. I also like to sew and I try to make time to make at least one mascot costume each year.
Who is your favourite author?
Anne Bishop, Melanie Rawn, and Brandon Sanderson are my top three at the moment. Anne Bishop for her dark fantasy, Melanie Rawn because her books are fantastic and I feel she’s underappreciated and Brandon Sanderson because I haven’t read anything of his yet that I haven’t liked.
What’s your favourite genre to read?
I prefer reading epic fantasy or historical fantasy/romance. I like books that take me away to other worlds and times. I also like my fantasy books to have aspects of other genres in them like science-fiction, romance, or adventure.
Do you have any advice for other writers?
If you have a story you want to get out of your head, then KEEP WRITING. Don’t second-guess yourself or try to edit as you go. Write every day, or as often as possible, and keep getting the story down on paper. Once you’re done, feel free to criticize yourself and re-work what needs re-working, but in the writing process it’s more important to write than to do anything else.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Mirror’s Hope is a full length novel set within a fantasy world and is now available through most major retailers. It has witty and modern dialogue, a fast paced plot and strong romantic elements. So if you're the kind of person who likes to escape into or is looking for a novel that is both inspirational and entertaining as it takes you through a what-if scenario in an exciting world filled with interesting and believable characters, then Mirror’s Hope is the book for you and we hope that you will not only read it but also help me spread the word about it.
Friday, 25 April 2014
Friday, 4 April 2014
One Lucky Night - Cover Reveal
One night can change everything…
The crew at Boston’s Brazen Head Pub hasn’t been very lucky in love. Can a mysterious visitor inspire them to look past old hurts and misconceptions and give romance a chance? One Lucky Night is a collection of five sexy interwoven novelettes by Aria Kane, Grace Teague, Ana Blaze, Constance Phillips, and Melinda Dozier.
Lucky Break by Aria Kane
Four years ago, chef Derek Chase walked out of Andrea Rivera’s life after a tragedy neither of them were prepared to deal with. When she’s called to the Brazen Head to repair a dishwasher, old sparks ignite buried feelings.
Lucky Star by Grace Teague
When her life is threatened by a mugger, Charlotte Price realizes she's in love with her best friend, Tommy Leung. The Brazen Head seems like the perfect neutral place to confess her feelings, but nothing goes according to plan.
A New Tune by Ana Blaze
When it comes to dating, Holly Hall has one unbreakable rule: no musicians. Not even gorgeous ones. Especially not gorgeous ones. Dating them only leads to heartbreak. So why did she let singer-songwriter Cian O’Neill kiss her? And why is she thinking about doing it again?
Lexi’s Chance by Constance Phillips
As a bartender, Sean Whalen meets all kinds of women every night, but none turn his head the way that Lexi has. She’s been playing cat and mouse with him for weeks. Tonight, Sean’s determined to get Lexi to quit teasing and take a real chance on him.
Drink or Dare by Melinda Dozier
A bachelorette party Drink or Dare game pairs paramedic students, Rachel Robertson and Killian Whelan, in a flirting match. Soon, the dares threaten to turn their academic rivalry into something much more.
One Lucky Night will be available in print and at all major ebook retailers on May 7th. For now, you can add it to Goodreads!
About the Authors
Aria Kane is a recovering mechanical engineer and romance writer. As a military brat, she grew up all over the country, but now lives in sunny Florida with a 60 lb mutt who thinks he's a chihuahua.
Website | Twitter | Facebook | Pinterest | Goodreads
Grace Teague lives in Pittsburgh with her spouse, children and a cat named Mr. Sushi.
Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads
Ana Blaze lives near Washington DC with her charming husband and three cats who firmly believe they are royalty. Ana is a member of Romance Writers of America.
Website | Twitter | Facebook | Pinterest | Goodreads | Tumblr
Constance Phillips lives in Ohio with her husband, two
ready-to-leave-the-nest children, and four canine kids. Her perfect
fantasy vacation would involve hunting Dracula across Europe with her
daughter, who also digs that kind of stuff.
Website | Twitter | Facebook | Pinterest | Goodreads | Tumblr
Melinda Dozier teaches English to middle schoolers by day and writes at night. She lives in Guatemala, Central America with her college sweetheart and three sons.
Website | Twitter | Facebook | Pinterest | Goodreads
Giveaway
The authors are giving away four print copies of One Lucky Night before you can buy it!
Enter here.
Tuesday, 11 March 2014
Interview: Joanne Troppello
What have you had published?Bella Lucia (2012) – romantic suspense
My S.E.D. Label (2012) – psychological drama
Mr. Shipley’s Governess (2014) – inspirational romance
What genre(s) of book do you write?
I’ve written in three different genres. My two favorite genres are romantic suspense and inspirational romance. I am interested in working on a fantasy novel at some point. I like keeping my writing and technique fresh by trying new styles.
What inspired you to write your first book?
Bella Lucia is a romantic suspense novel, but the themes of infertility and adoption play a part in the storyline. This was a personal story for me since my husband and I have dealt with similar issues. I also enjoy reading suspense novels so it was fun adding a suspense plotline as well.
How long did it take you to write “Mr. Shipley’s Governess”?
At the time of writing Mr. Shipley’s Governess and my other novels, I was working full time and did not have many hours to devote to writing. So, it took about 1 year to write each book and run it through a series of edits. I now co-own a marketing company and have more time to devote to writing.
What is the working title of your next book(s)?
My current work in progress is entitled, Innocence Reborn. It’s a mystery / police procedural novel. I started this book many years ago, but put it on the back burner to focus on other projects. I’m looking forward to finishing this novel. It is the first book in a series.
When and why did you begin writing?
I began writing when I was 17 years old, but went on a long journey before I became published. In one of my high school English classes, my teacher brought a love for reading and writing to his students. I’ve always had a desire to start writing since I was younger, but didn’t try my hand at it until that year. I’ve learned so much about writing along the way and continue to desire to better my writing.
Do you self publish your books or go through an agency?
Bella Lucia is published with Astraea Press and my other two books are self-published. I am keeping my options open and am looking to publish future works with another publisher and also self-publish other books.
What part of writing books do you find the hardest?
The hardest thing is letting go of my book once it’s completed and has gone through the editing process. I hope that it’s the best that I can do and am always thinking maybe I could’ve written it even better. Maybe I’m too much of a perfectionist and don’t know when to let go.
What do you do in your spare time?
My husband and I enjoy going to the movies. We both like spending time outdoors and sightseeing. I have 7 nieces and 7 nephews and my husband and I love to spend time with them. Reading is another pastime I enjoy.
Who is your favourite author?
My two favorite contemporary authors are Karen Kingsbury and Anne K. Albert. My favorite literary author is Jane Austen.
What’s your favourite genre to read?
I like to read romance as well as mystery novels.
Do you have any advice for other writers?
Following your heart is vital. Be true to yourself and write from your heart. Learn to accept constructive criticism and always work to become a better writer. Network with other authors, as critique partners, and learn to help promote each other. Accept the fact that self-promotion comes with the territory if you’re in this field. Whether you write articles or books, continue to write…even if you’re not seeing immediate success. Perseverance will win out in the long run.
About the author
Joanne Troppello is an author of inspirational and romantic suspense novels. She and her husband are Network Marketing Coaches and owners of Mustard Seed Marketing Group, LLC. They have several active blogs and readers are encouraged to visit their Author's Corner Blog, a place for authors and readers to connect. They host various blog parties throughout the year and many guest authors stop by to meet with readers.
Sunday, 9 March 2014
Monday, 10 February 2014
Interview: Darcy Daniel
What have you had published?“Playing the Part” and “The Devils’ Cradle”.
What genre(s) of book do you write?
Contemporary romance and thrillers.
What inspired you to write your first book?
A scary event that happened to my mother when I was only about 10. I’ve never forgotten it and used it as a germ of an idea for a story.
How long did it take you to write “Playing the Part”?
About 6 months.
What is the working title of your next book(s)?
Dreaming of You (definitely a working title).
When and why did you begin writing?
I’ve always been an avid reader and did well in English classes at school, so it just seemed to come naturally to me. I started to become serious about it just after my son was born.
Do you self publish your books or go through an agency?
“Playing the Part” was published traditionally, but I decided to give self-publishing a try with “The Devils’ Cradle”.
What part of writing books do you find the hardest?
Marketing! The writing part is much easier.
What do you do in your spare time?
I work full time and write in between, so I rarely have spare time. I guess the only break I get is when I actually go away for a holiday.
Who is your favourite author?
Dean Koontz is my all-time favourite.
What’s your favourite genre to read?
Thrillers with some romance.
Do you have any advice for other writers?
Just write what you yourself would like to read.
Friday, 7 February 2014
Interview: Claire Davon
I have self-published two books so far.
What genre(s) of book do you write?
I write contemporary romances. However right now I am trying my hand at a paranormal series at the same time I am revising a contemporary romance series.
What inspired you to write your first book?
My first book dates back to when I was a pre-teen. I became inspired again a few years ago to pick up the writing baton and based the male characters on certain celebrities or famous figures I found interesting.
How long did it take you to write “Sense of Adventure”?
My first draft of Sense of Adventure (at the time entitled “Hunter”) was written in three weeks. I put it down for a number of years and finally revised it over a two month period and self-published it in January, 2014.
What is the working title of your next book(s)?
For now, “Phoenix,” but that will change. I usually use the male character’s name as a working title. This book is the first of a four-part paranormal romance series and the titles I will choose will be linked thematically.
When and why did you begin writing?
I’ve been writing on and off since I was a child. One of my earliest memories was writing a Kids from C.A.P.E.R. romance novel with me and my friends as the romantic interests when I was eleven or twelve.
Do you self publish your books or go through an agency?
I self-publish at this time.
What part of writing books do you find the hardest?
Usually about midway through the story I decide it is the worst story EVER and it SUCKS and WHY OH WHY did I ever try writing? It’s powering through that time, just slogging through and persisting with daily writing until I get past that feeling that is hard. That and revisions, being ruthless with chopping words and filler plot points or meandering chapters in order to tell the story that really wants to be told.
What do you do in your spare time?
I have a full time job so writing is what I do in my spare time.
Who is your favourite author?
So many…for Romance: Ruth Wind or Marjorie Liu. Fantasy: Jacqueline Carey. SF: Neal Stephenson. But that is just the tip of the iceberg. Stephen King. Anne McCaffrey. Christine Feehan. Elizabeth Lowell. Neil Gaiman. Jane Austen. Dean Koontz. The list is endless.
What’s your favourite genre to read?
I tend to stay with romance (contemporary or paranormal), fantasy and science fiction, but one of my top ten favourite books of all time is The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett. Good fiction knows no genre.
Do you have any advice for other writers?
Set a goal every day, whether it’s 100 words, five minutes or two hours, and stick to it. Do the goal you have committed to every day without fail. It will seem weird and awkward at first, that page will be very white and very blank, but the more you do it the easier it gets. And then before you know it, you have a working first draft.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Good luck and keep the words going!
Tuesday, 4 February 2014
Blog Tour: Roe Valentine
Blurb: Realist, Dr. Carla Harris, believes that people create their own fate, through hard work and careful planning. She believes in playing things safe. But, while preparing for her upcoming nuptials she’s forced to confront the most reckless thing she’s ever done, her estranged husband, Jacob.
Idealist Jacob Moreau believes in soul mates, as much as he believes in saving endangered companies. When his long lost wife reenters his life seeking a divorce, he is convinced more than ever they are meant to be together. And he will do—and lose—anything to have her again.
She thought she had her life planned to perfection. He thought they made perfect sense together. Would marrying Jacob be the craziest thing she’s ever done, or divorcing him?
You can add Almost Married to your to-read list on Goodreads
Title: Almost Married
Author: Roe Valentine
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Release Date: 27 January 2013
About the Author:Roe Valentine was born into the right family. Not only does the name Valentine suit her, but her grandmother, unknowingly, introduced the young Ms. Valentine to her first romance novel. She hasn’t read anything else since. She calls herself a romantic at heart and believes that love conquerors all.
The San Antonio native, who now lives in Houston, attempted to write her first contemporary romance novel when she was nineteen years old. That attempt didn’t take, but her story has a happy ending. She kept pursuing the dream until she landed her first publishing contract. Almost Married is her debut novel.
When not busy writing or reading love stories, Roe can often be found in a yoga class or chatting with friends at her favorite coffee shop. Enjoying margaritas with some girl-talk isn’t unusual for her either. For a night in, she watches reruns of her favorite TV shows and, of course, romantic comedies on her Roku, usually with a glass of wine.
Roe Valentine also LOVES talking to readers. You can contact her in the following ways:
- Goodreads
- Website
- Email - info@roevalentine.com
Interview
What have you had published?
ALMOST MARRIED is my debut, but I have a second book coming out this year. It’s a 1920 historical romance called LOVE EASY.
What genre(s) of book do you write?
Contemporary romance, historical romance, erotic romance
What inspired you to write your first book?
I wrote my first contemporary romance when I was 19. I was inspired after I read this Harlequin Superromance called Too Many Bosses. While I loved reading historical romances, there was something about the contemporary setting that made me feel like I could be a heroine in a romance novel. So, I just cooked up a story that was rejected all over the place, and for good reason!
How long did it take you to write “Almost Married”?
Well, I don’t like to say this because I could get slapped, but it took me three whole weeks to write ALMOST MARRIED—it was called LEFT TO FOREVER back then. I haven’t been able to repeat that zeal again so far, so it still surprises me how fast I wrote it.
What is the working title of your next book(s)?
LOVE EASY will be published this year with the Wild Rose Press
Current titles for my next books are –
LOVE HARD
DEVIANT HEIRESS (book one of a trilolgy)
When and why did you begin writing?
I started writing when I was a kid, maybe 6 or so. I think I wrote to escape.
Do you self publish your books or go through an agency?
So far I am going the traditional publishing route. If I indie publish, it will be years down the line.
What part of writing books do you find the hardest?
Getting and stopping the momentum. Some days the words just don’t come out. Other days I can’t stop writing, but I have to because of other responsibilities.
What do you do in your spare time?
Usually go to Yoga, read at my favourite coffee shop, or have wine/margaritas with friends. I also like binge watching episodes of various shows. Right now I’m watching Dracula, Frasier (Daphne/Niles romance is one of my favourite), and any documentary/show about the Tudor Dynasty.
Who is your favourite author?
I have too many. Currently, I really like Sylvia Day.
What’s your favourite genre to read?
Romance of course!
Do you have any advice for other writers?
Keep writing.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Thank you for your time! I appreciate you having me on your blog.
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