Friday, August 30, 2013

Spotlight: COLOUR WIELDERS by Dawna Raver #fantasy #indie

COLOUR WIELDERS 
by Dawna Raver 
IS BACK!!!

I'm happy to announce that Colour Wielders is back on the market with a pretty new face and updated content. It thrills me to be able to share it with you today. Thank you Jade Hart at Black Firefly for all her work, Michelle Johnson for Dawna's amazing cover (Michelle also designed EVER's gorgeous cover!), and Danielle Blanchard for all your hard work and help. If you have time, please stop by Facebook tonight and party with us at 4:00 central https://www.facebook.com/events/314183782060128 hosted by the wonderful Leslie Whitaker.   Colour-Wielders   Behind the Faerying Mysts, hidden from Mortal eyes, is a land where gods and creatures of myth and legend dwell. And in the Mortal Realm, their Princess is hidden away. Quinn Sinclair lives an ordinary life with her less-than-loving mother in Conifer, Colorado, clueless of her true nature. On the night of her birthday, a staggering betrayal sends her life spinning out-of-control. As she struggles to pick up the pieces, a vision of a man with haunting tourmaline-blue eyes begs her for help, and she is transported into a Magykal battle-forever changing her life. Arik Morgaine—Demigod bad boy and outcast of the Magykal Realm—tried to avoid contact with Princess Quinn for eighteen years, not wanting to make good on an old threat. But the fates have other plans. Arik can no longer deny his growing desire for Quinn, or the need to protect her from those wanting to control her burgeoning powers. Can the two of them come together and save the Magykal Realm from being destroyed by the Darkest of Magyks? New Adult. Recommended for 18 and above. Mature themes, sexual situations, and profanity.
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Excerpt:

Gentle fingertips grazed the edge of her jaw, trailing down her neck to her collarbone. His citrine gaze stared deeply into her eyes, and her body heated at his tender touch. “You’re okay, yeah?” Thaene asked, his voice hoarse from their lovemaking. Am I okay? She hardly knew. Though she had nothing to compare it to, this feeling was more than giving her virginity to him. Quinn felt like something bigger inside had stirred to life, wanting to escape. “You know I love you. I’m sorry if it hurt.” He kissed her again, his lips caressing hers, as if he could take the ache away. “Say something, Quinn. Please.” “I love you, Thaene.” She pressed herself into him, passionately returning his affection. As their kiss continued, Quinn wondered if he wanted more. She also wondered if she had more to give. “I want us together, always. Do you want that, Quinn?” Thaene’s eyes danced with a mixture of emotions—love, passion, possessiveness, and something else she couldn’t name. “We can have forever. You want that, don’t you?” Thaene asked. “Yes,” Quinn answered breathlessly, before realizing what she’d agreed to. She smiled, finding his need for her exciting. “Forever is a long time. But I could do it with you.” Thaene smiled back. Happiness lit his face. He looked like he’d just won a major prize—he looked triumphant. “Being with you on your twenty-second birthday was very special to me. You’ve given me such a precious gift.” “I love you. I can’t imagine my first time with anyone else.” Besides, my gift of Sight showed you to me, over and over. How could I not give myself to you? Her gift had shown her something else as well. Since she didn’t understand it, Quinn ignored it. She’d followed her heart where Thaene was concerned. Not even her mother’s dislike—or in spite of it— changed her mind. Following your heart always led you down the right path. Thaene lightly brushed her hair from her face, then he rested his forehead on hers. “There’s something else I’d like you to give me. Will you do that? Give me what I desire the most?” The longing in his voice made Quinn squirm underneath him. Right now, she’d give him anything. “It’s the most precious gift of all. One I’ll cherish forever.” Oh my God. He wants to marry me. “Yes,” Quinn said, drawing in a breath. “I’ll give you anything.” “Good.” Thaene nuzzled her neck. “I want you to show me your Magyk.” “What?” Quinn blinked at him, wondering if she’d heard him right. “If you want us to have forever, you must show me your Magyk.”  

About the Author:DawnaFlowersDropShadow

Dawna Raver is an author of paranormal romance and urban fantasy. Colour Wielders, Book One, is her debut novel. When she's not spending time in her fantasy world, Dawna loves football, reading, and pretending she's a top chef in the kitchen. Oh, and fawning over her dogs and husband, sometimes in that order.  

Contact Dawna at:

https://www.facebook.com/DawnaRaver https://twitter.com/DawnaRaver https://dawnaraver.com http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17261634-colour-wielders      

Thursday, August 29, 2013

EVER is re-releasing on THIS SUNDAY, 9/1/13! Teaser time! And Giveaway! #EVERTrilogy #YA #Paranormal

Be sure to stay tuned for the FREE first chapter of EVER revealed on Sunday! It will be a progressive reading (like a progressive dinner party, but without annoying drunk neighbors, right?), with multiple blogs, and PRIZES! YAY! 

In the meantime, here's a little teaser for you, and a giveaway on GoodReads! 



Goodreads Book Giveaway

Ever by Jessa Russo

Ever

by Jessa Russo

Giveaway ends September 28, 2013.
See the giveaway details at Goodreads.
Enter to win

Wednesday, August 28, 2013

Spotlight: THE LURE OF FOOLS by Jason King #fantasy

THE LURE OF FOOLS
By Jason King


“Adventure is the lure of fools, and excitement glamour to the gullible. The siren song of the world is as music to the wanderer’s feet, but that dance leads only to the soul-less grave.” 

So Jekaran’s uncle has warned him. But that doesn't stop him from leaping at the exhilarating chance to single-handedly rescue a beautiful woman from a gang of lecherous thieves.

But the bored farm boy quickly finds that he is no match for the group of angry street thugs, and only escapes death by bonding a magical sword that grants him the strength and skill of a master swordsman. Unfortunately, a peasant wielding such magic is forbidden and punishable by death. 
Thus Jekaran finds himself a fugitive with his fate tied to that of the exotic and mysterious, Kairah; a fey woman who must deliver a dire warning to the king that, if heeded, could prevent the very extinction of humanity.


Add THE LURE OF FOOLS on GoodReads!
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Enter to WIN a copy of THE LURE OF FOOLS! 

About Jason King
Jason King’s interest in writing started at a young age, and was fueled by the fantastical works of greats such as J.R.R. Tolkein, George Lucas, and Brandon Sanderson.  Now he creates his own fantasy adventures, including Valcoria: Children of the Star, Thomas Destiny, and several short films.

King has a tendency to create novels that seem so deeply entrenched in the fantasy realm, but somehow offer a fresh take on both trope and tale, with what bestselling author James Wymore describes as “breath-taking imagery and a pervasive magic system”.  For the reader that likes everything, the book offers fantasy, adventure, romance, an enigmatic plot, and the ever-present threat of danger. To embrace the pun, one would be a fool not to be lured into reading Lure of Fools. Find out more about author and novel, visit King’s website and check out the first chapter on Wattpad.



Wednesday, August 21, 2013

BREAKING THE REINS by Juliana Haygert!






Breaking the Reins
Release Date: 08/19/13

Summary from Goodreads:
Horses, mansions, tea parties, and lies are twenty-year-old Hannah Taylor’s life. To others, her family and her relationship with Eric is perfect. But she knows the truth. She lives it.

After a fire takes her grandma's life and kills her horse, Hannah's immaculate life spirals out of control. Her father disapproves of her decision to run her grandma’s ranch instead of focusing solely on learning the family business; Animal Control brings her Argus, a mistreated horse that she can't turn away even though she's not ready for another horse; and her boyfriend, Eric Bennett, a world famous polo player, becomes possessive and authoritarian. Despite her best efforts to disguise it, Hannah grows wary of him.

Then, Leonardo Fernandes struts onto the polo scene. A cocky rookie with a messy life of his own, he’s drawn to Hannah and isn’t afraid of showing it, even when Eric makes it clear she is his and he’ll do whatever it takes to keep it that way. Hannah suffers for Eric’s jealousy. The abuse only gets worse when Leo steals the title of best polo player in the world from Eric.

But the title isn’t enough for Leo. He wants Hannah too, and she can’t deny her attraction to him either. Somehow, she must find a way to break free from abusive Eric before he breaks every bone in her body.

**New Adult Contemporary Romance Novel**


Available from:
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LINKS:
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Breaking-the-Reins-ebook/dp/B00EH5UC3E/ref=sr_1_2_title_0_main?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1376664588&sr=1-2

Amazon UK:http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00EH5UC3E/ref=s9_simh_gw_p351_d4_i1?pf_rd_m=A3P5ROKL5A1OLE&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=0EH3FK9W28ZJH18GEHZG&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=418445227&pf_rd_i=468294

B&N: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/breaking-the-reins-juliana-haygert/1116543712?ean=2940148736516&itm=1&usri=2940148736516

Kobo: http://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/breaking-the-reins

Apple: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/breaking-the-reins/id687295710?ls=1




Praise for Breaking the Reins:
 “Breaking The Reins by Juliana Haygert is a real treasure. It’s a sexy, heartbreaking and romantic ride you won’t want to miss.” —Sawyer Bennett, USA Today Bestselling author of Off SideOff LimitsOff the Record, and Off Course.

“A breath of fresh air in the New Adult market. Juliana Haygert’s new contemporary novel is one not to be missed!” —Magan Vernon, international bestselling author of The Only Exception


“A swoonworthy love interest and a fantastic backdrop make Breaking the Reins a New Adult read you don’t want to miss!” —Alyssa Rose Ivy, bestselling author of The Crescent ChroniclesClayton Falls Series, and The Hazards of Skinny Dipping.

About the Author:
New Adult author and contributor at NA Alley blog.
While Juliana Haygert dreams of being Wonder Woman, Buffy, or a blood elf shadow priest, she settles for the less exciting—but equally gratifying—life of a wife, mother, and author. Thousands of miles away from her former home in Brazil, she now resides in Connecticut and spends her days writing about kick-ass heroines and the heroes who drive them crazy.
Author Links:
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***GIVEAWAY***
2-ebook copies of Breaking the Reins (INT)
1-ebook copies of Destiny Gift (INT)
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Book Blitz hosted by:

Friday, August 2, 2013

Difficult Decisions: Why I chose to cut ties with my publishing house, and the future of the EVER Trilogy . . .

Difficult Decisions . . . 

As most of you may know, my journey to publication was a tough one (as so many tend to be). No, it wasn't long, at all (a short five months), but it was tumultuous, and there were many days that I couldn't imagine continuing on. I'm not someone with thick skin, and I take everything personally, internalize it, and dwell/spin/spiral. From rejection letters, to lost contests, to pitching on Twitter and having absolutely no response, I had so much self doubt during my querying days, that I'm surprised I managed to overcome.

But I did overcome.

And, in doing so, I realized that I am definitely a writer. Whether good or bad, published or not, the writing bug bit me and it won't be ignored.

I've also learned that my journey to publication didn't end with publication. It is a constant, evolving road, and I have a feeling I am only just getting started.

As most of you know, I signed with Curiosity Quills Press back in June of 2012. Initially, I was beyond thrilled. I had a publishing contract! On top of that, I had a publishing contract with a publishing company whose logo was a skull! What could be more fitting for me? I also had the backing of an editor who loved my story, understood my characters, and all-in-all, just 'got' me.

My debut was published in late September 2012, with an "official" release date of October 1st. Publishing EVER was a whirlwind of emotion. I was scared, excited, nervous, happy, and basically running the gamut of every good and bad emotion you can think of! My baby was going out into the world, and I didn't really know what that would mean for me. EVER was my very first completed manuscript. No, not just my first published manuscript, but the very first book I'd actually completed. Period. EVER is special, and precious to me, and probably not the best book I'll ever write, but still, she's mine, and I'm proud of the accomplishment.

After having EVER in the world for a few months, I began to feel like something was missing. Something was off. I began to question my choices, question myself, and question my relationship with Curiosity Quills Press. Eventually, the answer came to me, and it was a difficult one to digest.

During this past year, I've struggled with second-guessing myself. I've struggled with regret--which if you've ever dealt with that feeling, you know it can be a pretty heavy thing. I've struggled with the thought that if some of CQP's authors are thrilled, but I am not, then it's obviously something I'm doing. Or not doing. Or, maybe I just suck . . .

But then it hit me. I realized that though my choice to sign with CQP was not a bad choice, it may not have been the right choice for me.

Many talented and amazing people make up the CQP family. I have learned from them, learned with them, laughed with them, shared news with them, experienced highs and lows with them . . . as a family is supposed to do. Many of the CQP authors are loving life and enjoying their writing careers, as well as their choice to sign with CQP. They publish book after book, hit Amazon bestseller lists, and basically just love their writing journey and where it is taking them.

Unfortunately, I don't share their enthusiasm, and it has been a very emotionally draining road for me.

After over a year with CQP, I feel that my heart is leading me down a different path.

I have recently terminated my contracts with Curiosity Quills Press, which was a mutual and friendly break-up, and the rights to The EVER Trilogy have been returned to me. 

Moving forward, I will continue to pursue my traditional publishing dreams with DIVIDE, and my recent project, ARK (a modern redux of Noah's Ark), with the help of my literary agent, Marisa Cleveland and The Seymour Agency.

However, with these new developments, the EVER series will take a different path.

The EVER Trilogy's future . . . 

EVER: First and foremost, if you have a paperback copy of EVER, treasure it! I'm not completely sure when I will have paperbacks available again, and when I do have them, they won't look exactly the same, obviously. So let's call those current paperbacks collector's items, shall we? Makes them sound speshul.

I plan to re-release EVER via self-publishing in e-book form, in the coming months. I'm throwing in a little something extra for the fans--a few chapter's from Toby's POV, possibly? Why don't you take this quick little poll and tell me what you'd like me to throw into the re-release? Sound fair? :-)

If you could pick just ONE of these options to be included in the re-release of EVER, which would you choose?
  
pollcode.com free polls 
PS. "All of the above" is not an option. Sorry, guys! ;-)

EVADE: The cover photo shoot is scheduled for THIS Tuesday, August 6th! I am so excited, its not even funny! AND, I surprised one of EVER's biggest fans--a book reviewer/blogger from right here in sunny SoCal!--with an invite to join us for the photo shoot! SQUEE! She'll get to meet my awesome photographer (Face on by Tamara), interview my hottie models (Tracy Stanbury-Ever and Sean Ciccione-Toby) and hang out with us, documenting the entire day and blogging about it for all of you! Make sure you follow Annabelle Lovell at Sparkles and Lightning or on Twitter so you don't miss the awesome behind-the-scenes post in September! She's super excited, which makes me even more excited!

I am still planning on releasing EVADE near the end of September, beginning of October, just a year after EVER was first published. EVADE will be self-published in e-book format, and possibly paperback as well, depending. This is all very new to me and I'm taking it day by day, learning as I go, so please bear with me.

BOOK THREE: I'm sure you've already guessed, but Book Three will also be released via self-publishing, and will hopefully be scheduled for a year after EVADE is published, landing that release date around 10/1/2014. (See the pattern here?)

In closing . . . 

Regardless of my decision, I will forever stand by my original thoughts on small presses/big presses/self publishing. There is no right or wrong way to follow your dreams or bring your writing goals to fruition. REMEMBER THAT above all else. Your choices may not be mine, and mine may not be yours, and you know what? THAT IS COMPLETELY OKAY. You need to take charge of your own destiny, your own happiness. So grab that bull by the horns, and turn your dreams into reality--whichever path that may lead you down. This is YOUR career, your passion. Go with it. 

I want to thank the Curiosity Quills Press family for the experience and knowledge I've gained in this past year, and for being supportive during this difficult decision to part ways. Please know that this decision wasn't made lightly.