Hump Day Hook #HDH Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel)

Having recently sent my final manuscript off to the publisher for printing, I would like to share an excerpt from my upcoming new release Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel). I am very excited to see my third book in print, and I hope you will enjoy the snippet, which shows a little action between the witch Jessica Stone, and the alpha werewolf Danny Mason.

“You are the alpha male,” I said, “You are worthy of our attention.”

            “Jessica,” Danny said, “I do not want to play with your tiger.  I want you,” he paused, staring at me with glowing blue eyes, “Jessica, I want you.” He said again.

            I hesitated, mulling over his words.  Something stirred within me, a memory of another man who looked identical to the alpha.  The other man was not a wolf.  He was dead.  I didn’t want a dead thing.  I wanted heat, power, and life.  I moved towards the alpha, my body preparing to pounce.  My movements were smooth, agile and feline.  I loved the way I moved, so graceful and delicate, so strong.  I pounced.

There we go! Not only is Jessica fighting with her wayward animal familiar, but she is about to plunge head first into a love triangle with supernatural identical twin brothers. Will her sanity survive? Will she survive? Wait and see! In the meantime, you can read the story from the beginning by checking out Love Hurts (A Redcliffe Novel) free on Wattpad for a limited time only. You can then sample the sequel Love Kills (A Redcliffe Novel) and follow the progress of our feisty heroine and her tumultuous relationships.

You can see the rest of our Hump Day Hook bloggers on our special website, and on Facebook. Take a look, you won't be disappointed! 

Book Review: Shadow of Night by Deborah Harkness

Here is my book review of Shadow of Night, the sequel to A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness.

I loved this book! It is an epic tome, but well worth taking the time to read. After A Discovery of Witches, I couldn’t wait to get hold of the sequel. I have to admit it seemed a bit slow to take off.  I almost got bored of it, but not so badly that I gave up reading. Once I was able to dedicate some proper time to immerse myself in it, I became lost in the world traversed by witch Diana Bishop and her vampire husband Matthew, a man of many secrets and as many alter egos. I loved the description of Elizabethan England and the intrigue of international politics and religion at the time. The book finished at the beginning of a new journey, and now I look forward to the next instalment. If you want to know more about real witches, you have to read this!

Book Review: Tapping the Power Within by Iyanla Vanzant

Here is my review of the spiritual non-fiction book, Tapping the Power Within: A Path to Self Empowerment for Women.

This book was written by Iyanla Vanzant, who is a Yoruba priestess and an ordained minister in Christian New Thought. I found the book very easy to read, and her tone was informal and inspirational. She is basically a human just like the rest of us, who has had unique experiences throughout her life that have shaped her spiritual beliefs and general attitude. The book was helpful in making me realize that my own spiritual journey runs alongside my daily life, and on many occasions interconnects with it. I came away with renewed determination and vigour, and I admire Vanzant for her frank accounts of life in describing how other people can learn to help themselves to be happier and more fulfilled.

You can see my article A Book that Brought my Spiritual Life into Perspective over on my personal blog.

A Vampire for Valentines Day #VampireBlogHop

I am very excited at the moment! Not only am I soon to release my third novel in the paranormal romance series the Redcliffe novels, but also my favourite television show, Being Human, is back on BBC3 for its fifth series. Can life get any better? Well, yes, but for now I am content!

Today is St Valentine’s Day. Traditionally we are supposed to revel in romance, lavish affection upon our loved ones, and take the opportunity to share our true feelings with the objects of our affections. As a married woman with a young child and another on the way, my romantic life is pretty non-existent right now!

That is partly why I escape to Redcliffe and the passionate love affair between witch Jessica Stone, vampire detective Jack Mason and his identical twin werewolf brother Danny. Throw in a werewolf love triangle between alpha Danny Mason, and lieutenants Simon Bunce and Sally Frost, and you have an explosive mix. Add another feisty vampire, playboy business owner Marcus Scott, and the whole thing becomes a tornado!

So, for your romantic pleasure, and in the spirit of St Valentine, I have participated in the Valentine’s Vampire Bite Blog Hop courtesy of Precious Monsters. My vampire heroes are Detective Jack Mason from the Redcliffe novels, his friend Marcus Scott, and the heroes from Being Human, Mitchell (actor Aidan Turner) and Hal (actor Damien Molony). If you haven’t seen Being Human, here are some photos of these two delectable Irish men (who incidentally would be in the running for my fantasy Redcliffe cast):

Mmm, delicious! Happy Valentine's Day my friends. May it be filled with love, romance, and chocolate!

#HDH - Hump Day Hook - Love Hurts (A Redcliffe Novel)

Hello and welcome to Valentine’s week and today’s Hump DayHook! We have seen some interaction with vampires during recent weeks, and they seem to be a popular choice for Valentine romances. Today I would like to offer you a little something from the werewolves, just to shake it up a little. We return again to the first novel in the Redcliffe series, Love Hurts, and this one is free to view on Wattpad for a limited time only.

With that in mind, here is an excerpt where our heroine Jessica Stone witnesses a mysterious exchange between the werewolf alpha Danny Mason, and his lieutenant Sally Frost. At this point Jessica is not aware of vampires and werewolves, and she has no idea of what she has gotten herself involved in.

Danny was standing close to Sally, and he looked quite angry and intimidating.  In fact he looked different, more frightening, very like Jack had on that morning when he pinned me in the bedroom.  Sally seemed to be acting submissively to him, as though she had done something wrong, but I couldn’t imagine what.  Surely they must be a couple and they were having an argument.  But why would Danny be in the hospital when Sally was working?  He should be at work today I knew that.  Actually he was dressed in jeans and a smart shirt rather than his usual surfer clothes.  I knew enough to see that these were his work clothes.  Maybe he was on an investigation or something. 

Mysterious happenings, aren’t they? Ha ha! Now, why not pop over to our Hump Day Hook blog and check out some fabulous excerpts from brilliant authors that write everything from straight romance, gay romance and erotica, medical drama, science fiction, and a whole lot more. You can also find us on Facebook, and join in the fun. Happy Humping, and Happy Valentine’s!

The Redcliffe Novels Fantasy Cast List

People have been asking me recently which actors I would like to see playing the roles of my heroes and heroines in the Redcliffe novels, should they be picked up by Hollywood, or maybe the BBC… After much consideration, I have assembled a fantasy cast list of the main characters. My actors will have to be British in order to do an authentic portrayal. I would like to see some new talent emerging, but for now I will choose familiar faces from British television (and the odd Hollywood superstar) to give you an idea. 

 Jessica Stone – It took a while for me to settle on a suitable match for Jessica. Finally I decided my closest ideal is the actress Rosie Marcel, most recently known for her role as consultant Jac Naylor in the BBC hospital drama series Holby City. She has the look I imagine for Jessica, and she clearly likes to play strong and complex female roles.

 Jack and Danny Mason – Now these two are a slight problem. I have two actors in mind, but I need identical twin brothers from Ireland if I am to make the characters truly authentic. As far as appearances go, here are my favourites. I choose Michael Fassbender, because let’s face it, he is hot! And he seems to prefer fantasy roles, if you remember the television series Hex and the X-Men: First Class film.

But, there is another man who I see as a great Jack Mason. That is the Being Human actor Aidan Turner, who totally stole my heart when he appeared on screen as the tortured vampire Mitchell. Ooh, the choice is so hard!

 Elizabeth Gormond – I need an actress who can be both accessible and spunky to play Jessica’s best friend and business partner. Liz is a happily married woman, who is starting a family, but she is very forthright, very strong in her opinions and morals, and she is fiercely protective of those she loves. I see the actress Jemima Rooper playing a convincing Elizabeth.

Marcus Scott – Well, now, the vampire Marcus Scott is a character! He was never supposed to be such a big part of the Redcliffe novels, but somehow he forced his way into my affections, and indeed, into Jessica’s, much to her dismay! I have two candidates for the part of Marcus. The first is another Holby City actor, James Anderson. He is totally cheeky and charming as the trainee surgeon Oliver Valentine, and I think he could quite easily switch into confident playboy vampire mode.

But, there is another potential for Marcus, and one who I am sure a lot of vampire fans will be very familiar with. I was thinking perhaps Joseph Morgan, who currently plays the evil vampire Klaus in The Vampire Diaries. Delicious!

So there we are. I have finally put faces to some of the names in the Redcliffe novels, and I hope you appreciate my choices. I am still searching for suitable candidates to play werewolf lieutenants Simon Bunce and Sally Frost, Elizabeth’s husband Robert Gormond, and witch Crystal Waters. They will show themselves in good time… 

*All actor photographs courtesy of Google images in the public domain*

*Cover Reveal* Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel) – New Release!

It has arrived! It has finally arrived! After much discussion, tantalising titbits, and lots of talk about my exciting new Redcliffe novel, I can now reveal the front cover of Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel).

*Cue drum roll* - Ta-da!

Adjusting to life with vampires and werewolves, Jessica Stone is learning about being a witch. Love is painful. Life is difficult. It is never boring.

Life has changed forever in Redcliffe, Cornwall. Jessica Stone used to be a normal, happy human. Now she is an angry, conflicted and confused witch. It all happened when she met Detective Jack Mason and his identical twin brother Danny. Jessica almost died twice, fell into a love triangle, and she became a murderer. Now she faces the ultimate challenge as she continues the fight to save the man she loves, while simultaneously struggling with her lust for his werewolf brother and their vampire friend. Can she survive, or will love finally end her life completely?

#NLD13 - National Libraries Day 2013

I  have just discovered that it is National Libraries Day today! That will be Friday, 8th February 2013, depending on when you read this post. I am very excited, although I haven't seen an advert for activities in my local library. Apparently libraries all over the UK are participating in  events to celebrate the special day, and I came across it through my local newspaper, the Winsford and Middlewich Guardian. Winsford library is doing an event offering animal handling, which sounds like fun.

I love my local library! I love all local libraries. And I have been dismayed to read in the news all these stories about our government closing down libraries in the UK, reducing their opening hours, and generally taking away what I consider to be a very valuable and useful resource for local communities. I attend Middlewich library pretty much every Tuesday morning, when my daughter enjoys their free Rhymetime session. It consists of half an hour of singing and dancing for pre-school children, and a social hour for the parents and carers. The children enjoy some time together, they find lots of exciting books to read, and they run around burning off steam in a safe and contained environment.

As a child I would visit my previous local library every Saturday morning, with my mother and younger brother. Mum was the one who encouraged me to read. She was the guiding factor in my progression as a published author, and it was partly her insistence on us visiting the library that sticks in my mind. I loved those weekly jaunts. The library was a small, 1960s building in the market town of Cheadle, Staffordshire. It was not an inspiring place to look at, certainly no architectural dream, but it contained everything I needed to free my imagination and take me to other worlds.

Nowadays we use libraries for all sorts of reasons. They are not simply a place to borrow books anymore. I recently discovered a selection of magazines and business pamphlets in the Middlewich library, and they offered up ideas and suggestions for my developing business as a freelance writing professional. You can read daily newspapers in your local library, you can access the internet, and you can find details about events and groups in your community. They are a fantastic place to socialize and to meet like-minded people, no matter what your age.

So here's to National Libraries Day in the UK! I love my library!

Hump Day Hook #HDH - Love Hurts (A Redcliffe Novel)

Good morning and welcome to another Hump Day Hook! This week I have decided to show what happened when Jessica Stone met the vampire Marcus Scott. He is an interesting character. He was only supposed to have a bit part in the Redcliffe novels, but somehow he wheedled his way into the cast, and if I'm honest, into my heart! Watch out for more of Marcus when I find the right publisher for his story...

For now, here is the Hump Day Hook taken from my debut novel Love Hurts (A Redcliffe Novel). Don't forget you can read the whole novel for free on Wattpad for a limited time only, check it out!

“Marcus stop!” I cried, “Please stop, you’re hurting me!”

I was suddenly in a blind panic as he lifted his head, his face pale, and his eyes wild.  He opened his mouth and I tried to scream.  He was going to bite me! 

Suddenly he was flung away and slammed into the ground across the car park.  I saw Danny standing before me.  He glared at Marcus.

 “What did we tell you?” he yelled, “She is with Jack; she is not yours to take.  Leave us!” 

Marcus smoothly stood and put a hand to his mouth where he was bleeding from Danny’s punch.  He smiled and sauntered away without a word.  Danny turned back to me. 

“Are you alright, Jessica?” he asked, “Did he hurt you?” 

Tears sprang to my eyes.  I felt so foolish, so stupid.  If I hadn’t gotten drunk I could have stopped this from happening.  Danny‘s expression was full of concern. 

“Hey it’s all right.” he said softly, “Look, come inside and I’ll get you some water and find Jack.”   

Dramatic, isn't he? Marcus is a brilliant vampire, and he certainly throws a spanner in the works when he makes an appearance. You can see more of him in my second novel Love Kills (A Redcliffe Novel) and in my upcoming third release Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel). 

If you want to see more great writing from diverse and exciting authors, check out our Hump Day Hook blog and the Facebook page for links to more excerpts. You will not be disappointed!

 

Embrace the Small Victories; Being a Writer

Today I have experienced a couple of moments of pure egotistic pleasure and have embraced those moments. The first came when I was in a local town with my friend at lunchtime, and she wanted to visit the Waterstones bookstore. I never say no to an offer like that! Anyway, we wandered into the shop and I breathed in the delicious scent of all those beautiful books. Then I walked over to the paranormal fiction section and began searching for my favourite author, Laurell K Hamilton. She wasn't there! I was horrified!

But, what did I see instead? I saw a row of books neatly stacked, all with black covers and dark images to represent their respective paranormal stories. I saw books by Rachel Cain, Kelly Armstrong, and Kim Harrison, who I have read before and quite enjoyed. A huge grin spread across my face when I recognized the vibrant orange cover of a book entitled Love Hurts. And the author? Me, of course! There I was, nestled in amongst the New York Times best sellers and authors who had shaped my literary life during my early twenties. Cool!

OK, so it was only a small store, in a small town in the North of England. And the reason for my book sitting on that shelf was because I did a book signing event to promote it when it was first published. Still, my book is in that store, and will one day be purchased by an eager new reader. I find that thought very encouraging, very exciting and a little nerve wracking. But generally, I am just happy to see my books featured on the shelves of a national bookshop chain. And one day, they will be in the window displays, and stacked up by the door, as the world realizes how valuable and exciting the Redcliffe novels really are!

Valentines Day Vampire Bite Blog Hop

One of my New Year's resolutions was to get involved in some blog hops with both my author blog, and my personal one. I have thrown myself into the challenge by opening up my blog for guest appearances by fellow authors (message me if you would like a spot), and now I have joined my first blog hop. I will be writing about my favourite subject on Valentine's Day, and the very romantic topic is, of course, vampires!

I am currently considering my options, and wondering which angle to take for my blog post. I am thinking it is a good time to tie in with the upcoming release of my third Redcliffe novel, Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel). And, in the spirit of love and romance for Valentine's Day, I think it might be nice to share some background information about my favourite vampire, the incredibly gorgeous, moody and complicated Detective Jack Mason, lover and soulmate to our witch heroine, Jessica Stone.

If you would like a preview of the vampires of Redcliffe, Cornwall, hop over to Wattpad now, where you can read the entire first novel Love Hurts (A Redcliffe Novel), free. It is online for a limited time only as I promote the series that also includes Love Kills (A Redcliffe Novel) and Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel). Have a read, and tell me what you think...

#FreeBooks Author Spotlight N.L. Gervasio #amreading

January 30^th through February 1^st, you will be able to download Gods & Vampyres for FREE on Amazon.com. What’s even better? From February 2^nd through February 3^rd, The Dracove will be FREE again.

You can get the first two books in the Prophecy series for FREE this week and this week ONLY.

____________________________________________________

The Dracove – Book I of the Prophecy series





Kylie O’Rourke has unwittingly walked into the path of two vampyres—one who wants to use her as a sacrifice, and one who only wishes to win her heart. As she is pulled into their clandestine world, she learns more about her history and the reason behind her horrible nightmares.

Master vampyre Cianán searches for the one woman who could take his immortality to the next level—godhood. But, when he finds his Chosen One, his progeny Grantlund stumbles onto the Master’s plan . . . again. As if losing his first sacrifice to the bastard wasn’t enough, the Fates were to torment him with a second time.

____________________________________________________


Gods & Vampyres – Book II of the Prophecy series






War.

The act never changes, only its players over thousands of years.

When Kylie is taken for use as a sacrifice in an ancient ritual, Grantlund races to save her life, but he has to wait for that perfect moment or all will be lost. Not only does he have to go up against his former Master, Cianán, one of the oldest and most powerful vampyres on Earth, but now the gods are involved, and Cianán has a very prominent one in his corner.

Grant will do anything to stop Cianán from destroying his lover and this world, but what price is he willing to pay? Death at the hands of the woman he loves?

An epic battle is about to begin, and not even the gods know who will come out the victor.

____________________________________________________

This promotion starts on Tuesday night/Wednesday morning at midnight PST, so be sure to bookmark the event or write it down. And share, share, share, folks! Word of mouth is an author’s best advertising!

Jinxie’s hard at work on the next Prophecy series book—Gemini – Book III of the Prophecy series. It needs a bit of editing, and an in-between novella may come of it.

Also, don’t forget to check the Just Ink Press website for Special Content.

Bio:

NL “Jinxie” Gervasio is a creator and destroyer of worlds. She’s both editor and author, and discovered she’s quite good at the romance thing—writing it, that is—along with vampires, werewolves, zombies, angels and demons.

Jinxie is the CEO and Founder of Just Ink Press, her second publishing company, and she also owns and operates Forever Nocturne e-zine, a bi-annual literary magazine. Jinxie reviews books in her spare time, of which she rarely has any.

Jinxie was born on Friday the 13th. Her dad wanted to call her Jinx. Her mom said no. It took 34 years for her to discover the nickname, and she's grown quite attached to it. She lives in Tempe, Arizona with Umi (her mother), whom she cares for. She enjoys riding her beach cruiser "The Betty" around downtown Tempe, loves a good pub crawl, and has had the pleasure and the heartache of experiencing a love far greater than she could have ever imagined.

She welcomes you to her worlds.

Jinxie is the author of the Kick-Ass Girls Club series book Nemesis, and the Prophecy series books The Dracove and Gods & Vampyres. She’s also an editor for several successful authors.

Find Jinxie online for updates to upcoming works:

Twitter │ Facebook │ Website │ Just Ink Press │ Zombie Survival Crew

Hump Day Hook #HDH - Love Hurts (A Redcliffe Novel)

Today is Hump Day Hook once again. My, the time goes quickly these days! During recent weeks we have been catching glimpses of life in the Cornish town of Redcliffe after Jessica Stone discovered the existence of vampires and werewolves, and began to learn about her own hidden heritage. Now I have decided to take us back to the beginning. Here is an excerpt from my debut novel Love Hurts (A Redcliffe Novel). This is an excerpt from the very first time that Jessica Stone met Jack Mason, on an ordinary midweek evening...

Suddenly he was pulled back and I staggered as he was torn away from my body.  I blinked and opened my eyes to see Simon standing in front of me, his face blazing with anger.  He shoved Jack away from me and almost snarled.  I had never seen him this angry. 

  “You stay away from her, Mason,” he growled. “She is my friend.” 

Jack’s face became stern, almost stony as he replied in a cold voice.

   “Be careful, Simon,” he warned. “I think we should allow Jessica to decide what she is doing.  She seems perfectly capable of taking care of herself.”

  I felt a sudden rush of anger.  How dare Simon interrupt something so intimate!  My voice was strong and steady as I straightened up and faced the two men, glaring at Simon.  He took the full force of my rage, and it surprised him.

   “Simon, what the hell are you playing at?” I said angrily. “For your information I felt a bit faint inside and Jack brought me out here for some fresh air since it was so stuffy in the pub.  And you don’t even know him do you?” I added, the rage subsiding as quickly as it rose.  

 
There we go! If you like the sound of that then read the entire novel for free over on Wattpad. It is a limited special offer in preparation for the release of the third novel Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel), which will conclude the initial story of how Jack and Jessica met. But never fear, there will be lots more books in the series!

Now, if you enjoyed that excerpt, why not check out some other authors in our Hump Day Hook group? Please visit the official blog here, or find us on Facebook. Happy humping!

#amwriting My Writing Schedule January Review

I think it might be nice to write a post about my monthly achievements with writing projects throughout 2013. If nothing else, it will give me a focus and a goal for which to do my writing. I find that my motivation is greatly improved if I have a word count target and a fixed deadline for my work. When I have no specific aim or plan, I tend to waver and procrastinate. My stories are always developing in my mind, but they don't always progress onto paper (or screen).

When we began 2013, just a month ago, I decided to write a minimum of 1000 words per day. I have almost managed to keep up that target. I don't always write on the computer, and I do include my blog posts in that target. I have been writing more in my journals, which I feel will become very useful in later years as and when I make the move to writing non-fiction. The point is, I am writing something. Perhaps I shouldn't be so hung up on facts and figures. As a writer, the main aim is to produce content that people will want to read. I am doing that. It is just coming together slowly.

There are several factors involved here. The main one is my toddler, who is with me 24/7. She starts playschool next week, which means I will finally have a fixed rota in which to work. I am quite excited at the prospect. It will give me a minimum of 15 hours per week to develop my freelance business and to work on my manuscripts and short stories. Wonderful! For now I will continue as I have been, writing as and when the mood takes me. I have submitted a short story for an anthology that I hope will be accepted by the publisher. I am currently confirming cover art and final agreements for the release of my third Redcliffe novel Love Redeems. Everything is falling into place. 2013 is off to a good start!

Hump Day Hook #HDH - Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel)

Hello and welcome to this week's Hump Day Hook! Last week I shared a little excerpt from my upcoming novel Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel). Today I will share one last excerpt, before moving on to new projects. So far we have seen snippets of the relationship between our heroine Jessica Stone and her human best friend Liz, her werewolf friends Danny and Simon, and their mixed up emotional circumstances. Today I will share something of the lovers' relationship between Jessica and her vampire, Jack Mason. I feel he has faded into the shadows recently, so here is a little teaser.

Jack arrived promptly at closing time.  He startled me, appearing at the door just as I turned the sign to say ‘closed.’  I jumped and squealed, then laughed at my own stupidity as I unlocked the door to let him in.  Jack did not smile.  His expression was serious and he was clearly showing his vampire tonight as he stepped into my shop and across the room to my internal door, moving at lightening fast speed.  My skin prickled with tension and anxiety, but I forced myself to remain calm and not acknowledge his obvious bad mood.  Suri stood at the edge of her forest, watching the vampire, her large dark eyes sparkling with intelligence and power.  She opened her mouth and growled, but this time I was able to control myself and not allow it to escape through my body.  Instead I harnessed the power, drawing it into me in a tingling, electric mass.  It would help keep me strong and protect me from my boyfriend and his brother, should either of them try and exert their dominance over us.  

What do you make of that? Love is never easy, and more so if you happen to live in this crazy Cornish town! If you would like to see more novel excerpts, why not check out our Facebook group, or even our brand new blog site, Hump Day Hook? There are all sorts of stories featured, from straight romance, pure fantasy, paranormal, LGBT, Gothic and even a little sci-fi. You are sure to find something you will enjoy! Have a lovely week as always my friends.

Did you enjoy this article? Join my tribe today, and I will send you a fabulous FREE book to get you started… (be warned, my vampires do not sparkle, and my wolves will bite!) 

The Very Inspiring Blogger Award

Hooray! Ciaran Dwynvil has nominated me for The Very Inspiring Blogger Award. Thank you! 

Ciaran writes gay and erotic paranormal romance, and I thoroughly enjoy reading his weekly snippets and excerpts every Wednesday on the Hump Day Hook blog hop. 

 The Rules:

1. Display the award logo on your blog.
2. Link back to the person who nominated you.
3. State 7 things about yourself.
4. Nominate 15 bloggers for this award and link to them.
5. Notify those bloggers of the nomination and the award’s requirements.

7 Things About Me:

1.      My third novel, Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel) will be released very soon

2.      I am a natural redhead, and proud of it!

3.      I am married with one toddler, one Staffydoodle dog, and 2 turtles

4.      My hobbies include card making and crafting bead jewellery

5.      I sometimes hunt ghosts

6.      Occasionally I aspire to be like a Stepford wife (though very rarely!)

7.      One day I will own a small holiday cottage on the Cornish coast, from which to pen my masterpieces

15 Other Inspiring Blogs

So, let’s see where I like to stop and read… Check these bloggers too; you may well find something you enjoy...

 

Alex Laybourne 

Oscar Sparrow 

Jan Edwards 

Jane Wakely 

Grace Elliot 

Suzie Tullet 

Needy Helper 

Alison Wells 

Debz Hobbs-Wyatt 

Neale Daniel 

Stephen Ormsby 

S C Mitchell 

Catrina Barton 

Shirley McLain 

Natalie Jolley 

Need a Crazy Writing Challenge?

I know many fellow writers who eagerly participate in the annual novelling challenge that is NaNoWriMo. In fact, I found myself feeling a little wistful the other day when I realised how far away our next challenge is. I seem to write so much more productively when I have a fixed target date and a schedule in mind. Now, I know I could quite easily set myself plenty of targets to get my work done. In fact, my current plan is to write a minimum of 1000 words per day, whether that be in the form of a novel manuscript or short stories. But it is a slow progress at the moment.

Just the other day I received a newsletter from a website called Authonomy. I admit I do not spend a lot of time over there, but I am subscribed to their email list. On the the newsletter I received, something caught my eye. A group of writers have set up a new challenge. They want to write a full novel (or more likely a novella) in just 30 hours during 26th and 27th January. They are calling it National Novel Writing Weekend (or NaNoWriWee), and it is open to the public with prizes available. For more details, here is the link.

I did seriously consider entering this challenge. My husband just happens to be off work for a week because it is our daughter's birthday and mine, and we had planned to do some family activities together. But I couldn't recall any specific plans for next weekend. When I queried it with my husband, he informed me that I had already agreed he could attend a football game next Saturday, since he no longer has a season ticket due to his work schedule, and he hasn't been to a game in several months. I couldn't really change my mind now.

That wouldn't normally be a problem, except that we have a toddler (who will be 2 tomorrow!). I almost gave up on the idea of joining NaNoWriWee but it is still there, whispering in the back of my mind. Perhaps I could arrange for the grandparents to step in and babysit... Hmm, that's not a bad idea...

Hump Day Hook #HDH - Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel)

Today I give you an excerpt from my upcoming novel and the third in the Redcliffe series, Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel). This book concludes a trilogy that began with Love Hurts (A Redcliffe Novel), and continued in Love Kills (A Redcliffe Novel). Check out my fellow Hump Day Hook authors in our Facebook group, or on Kerrianne Coombes' blog.

This excerpt is the beginning of a conversation with our heroine Jessica Stone and her human best friend and business partner Elizabeth Gormond. I thought today we could take a break from werewolves and vampires, and see a little human perspective for a change... (don't worry, I have more vampire action lined up for next week!)

     Liz stared at me for a few moments. 
     “I know that Jack is a vampire, and that Danny, Simon and Sally are werewolves,” she said slowly, “I know what really happened to you, and I know that the two women who came to our shop were also werewolves.  Rob told me that much.  Can you tell me exactly what has been happening while I had a baby?”
      I smiled at her, and my heart lifted a little.  Liz was still able to offer sarcasm, even in such a small amount.  We would survive this test.  She returned my smile and some of the light returned to her eyes.  I realised that she was genuinely interested to hear my story, and she wanted to be a part of it.  Her responsibility now was to protect her daughter, her husband, and even her best friend if she could.  The least I could do was prepare her properly, although I didn’t know what I was expecting.

Don't forget that Love Hurts (A Redcliffe Novel) is currently free to view on Wattpad as a limited special offer. Check it out now and tell me what you think!

7 Lines from the 7th Page

I was recently tagged on Facebook by author Ciaran Dwynvil to play the 7 lines game.

Go to either page 7 or 77 of your manuscript. Count down 7 lines, then copy the next 7 lines to your status. After that, name 7 more authors to come out and play. I tag Alex Laybourne; Rebecka Vigus; Gracie C. McKeever; T Michael McCormack; Francesca Elizabeth Miller;  Kelly DeWitt; and Clayton Bye

Here are my 7 lines, taken from my third and upcoming novel Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel):

    I blinked and shook my head, trying to rid myself of the horror of that dream.
    “You attacked Liz,” I whispered, “You and Danny.  I couldn’t stop it.”
    Jack sat back, unsure how to react.
    “I would never attack Elizabeth,” he said quietly, “She poses no threat to me or my brother.”
    I swallowed, realizing that my throat was dry from the screaming.  My body was shivering, still in panic mode from the memory of my imagination.  I coughed to clear my throat.
    “I know,” I said uncertainly, “Sorry.”

Hump Day Hook #HDH - Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel)

Good morning and welcome to this week's Hump Day Hook. Today I am sharing an excerpt from my third Redcliffe novel Love Redeems. The book is due for release very soon, and I am excited to report that this installment proves to be the most action-packed and passionate offering yet! Here is the excerpt, but be warned, it is not for those of a delicate disposition...

“Jessica,” Danny gasped again, his voice struggling to sound human, “Jessica, please, let me go.  You do not want to do this.”

            I laughed, lowering my face to his.  He smelled of woodland, fresh foliage, running water, and something clean and fresh and alive.  I inhaled deeply, closing my eyes as I savoured the sensation.  While I did this I held tight to his arms, feeling the strain of hard muscle beneath my fingers, which triggered a tightening in my body.  Opening my eyes, I found Danny staring helplessly at me.  His struggle faded as he fell into the hypnotic emerald depths of my gaze.  His wolf eyes glowed at me, and he scented my skin as I moved in for a kiss.

            “You smell of tiger,” he growled softly, “I have never experienced this before.”
            “Enjoy it while you can,” I growled in response, and then I touched my lips to his, softly at first and then harder, passionate, forcing my power into and through his body. 

            I writhed on top of him, my nails gouging the skin of his arms, my power flowing straight into the alpha and calling out to his pack.  Behind me I heard Simon cry out.

            “No!” he shouted, “Jessica, stop this, now!”

What do you make of that? Exciting stuff! If you would like to see the offerings of my fellow group members, please see our Facebook Hump Day Hook group, or check out the blog by Kerrianne Coombes for a full list of participants. I will update you when I have a fixed release date for Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel), but in the meantime see my author website for books 1 and 2 in the series; Love Hurts (A Redcliffe Novel) and Love Kills (A Redcliffe Novel).

2013 Writing Plans for Redcliffe and Beyond

I have begun 2013 on a bit of a mission. In 2012 I got a little distracted by other activities, but I still managed to publish my second novel and write a separate one for NaNoWriMo. I also wrote a couple of short stories, but they took a while. In retrospect, I did not put in the effort I would have liked with my writing, and so this year I intend to reconcile that issue.

A big challenge for an Indie author is that of self promotion and book marketing. I have learned a lot about the industry during my almost two years on the job, so to speak. There is still a lot more for me to learn, and I have several books and training manuals still to consult on the topic of SEO, marketing and treating the job like a small business. All in all, I rather like being an entrepreneur, or rather, a mumpreneur!

Anyway, one of my targets for 2013 is to submit more short stories for publication in anthologies. These are a good way to spread the word about writing talents, to share ideas for prospective new novels, and continue to build on the growing audience for a series we might be writing. In my case I have written two short stories that feature characters and locations from my Redcliffe novels. One is a vampire story, and the other one features the werewolves.

I was pleasantly surprised today to discover that I already have three short stories that are edited and presentable for submission. Now I need to find the right publishers. Shouldn't be too hard! I also have a novella seeking publication, I have a novel waiting to be edited, and I am writing another separate novel about a vampire hunter who discovers something interesting about her past lives (even I am not sure what that is just yet!)

When I have completed all of that, or rather, while I am still completing all of that, I have to write the fourth Redcliffe novel. This will be a little difficult since I changed the ending to Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel) - book 3, and so my original notes for book 4 are totally useless! Hey-ho, it's all part of the fun. Now if only my beloved Muse would wake up, step forward, and give me some inspiration it will all come together...

Love Hurts (A Redcliffe Novel) - *FREE Special Offer*

I am pleased to announce the imminent release of my third Redcliffe novel, Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel). This book promises to be the most explosive part of the adventure so far, with more revelations for bookshop owner Jessica Stone as she navigates the new world of supernatural creatures, vengeful vampires, and alpha werewolves.

To celebrate the new book, and as a thank you to my fellow readers and authors for your continued support, I have posted up my first novel, Love Hurts (A Redcliffe Novel) free on Wattpad. Follow bookshop owner Jessica Stone as she unwittingly falls in love with a vampire police detective and his identical twin werewolf brother. Their lives are dangerous but Jessica cannot leave once she admits her feelings and discovers her own hidden truths.Check it out here! 

If you enjoy that one, you can sample the second novel, Love Kills (A Redcliffe Novel), and I will be back very soon to share the release date for Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel). Any reviews are welcome and appreciated, as is your interaction either here, over on Wattpad, or via Twitter or Facebook.

Have a lovely day!

Hump Day Hook - Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel)

Good morning and Happy New Year everyone! Welcome to a glorious 2013, where our days will be filled with literary joy and there are many new and exciting books to be discovered, written and read. Today I am sharing an excerpt from my newest, and as yet unpublished Redcliffe novel, Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel). This is the third book in my series, and concludes the trilogy which introduces us to bookshop owner Jessica Stone, her best friend Elizabeth Gormond, her lover Jack Mason and his identical twin brother Danny. This excerpt is from Chapter 1, and as you can see, the book gets straight to the action with no messing!

              I darted round the houses and shops that formed the end of the terrace in which I lived and worked, scraping my arm on the rough brick but not feeling any pain from the impact.  I had to save Liz.  Entering the street behind my house, I saw my red Ford Fiesta parked in its usual space outside my garden gate, and a huge black 4x4 BMW that belonged to either Jack or Danny Mason, I couldn’t tell which without looking carefully at the number plate.  Why were they at my house alone?  They should be at work or at their house.  The panic increased and I imagined any number of horrors as I flung through the battered old wrought iron garden gate, along the narrow flagged pathway, and through my open back door. 

            “Liz!” I shouted, my gaze darting round my kitchen searching for her. 

            “Jessica,” Liz shouted back, “Help!”
            I stopped short when a huge wolf blocked my path.  His brindle fur, highlighted with streaks of gold, gleamed healthily in the residual orange glow from the streetlights outside.  His amber eyes glowed with power and he growled ominously, his hackles raised, warning me to stay away.  I stared past him and my heart sank.  Liz was struggling in the arms of my lover, Detective Jack Mason.  His short dark hair fell in waves at either side of his face, and his beautiful deep blue eyes were now glowing silver.  He hissed at me, his fangs gleaming, and then he struck at Liz’s neck, biting her as she screamed. 

            “Jack, no!” I screamed, running forward as the wolf that was Danny Mason leaped at me in attack.

Did that grab your attention? Want to know more? Then check out my first 2 novels Love Hurts (A Redcliffe Novel) and Love Kills (A Redcliffe Novel), widely available in paperback and eBook format now. They will tell you where the whole story began, and you will soon be able to read Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel) as I plan to have it published in 2013.

 

To discover more fabulous new authors covering all kinds of romance, action and suspense genre, see our Facebook group for Hump Day Hook, or find the full list of participants here. Have a wonderful day!