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Welcome to my blog! Pull up a chair, grab a cup of coffee and read what's on my mind. I've a vicious sense of humor, an apprecation for romance and a mad addiction to writing.

Thursday, June 30, 2011

CHARACTER BLOWOUT. Abigail's Interview. Faith V. Smith's, IMMORTAL JUSTICE.

Welcome! You’ve arrived in time to enjoy A Writer’s Mind, End of Week Character Blowout. New to this blog? If so, here’s the scoop. The Character Blowout is much like The Newlywed Game blog style! On Thursday I interview the heroine from some of your favorite stories. On Friday, the hero. The questions asked of each are similar so it’s always fun to see how well they know one another.

Today it’s my pleasure to welcome over Abigail Dupree from Faith V. Smith, IMMORTAL JUSTICE. Before I get started with the interview let’s learn a bit more about this novel…

Over a millennium ago, Highlander Darach MacRath was murdered. Resurrected by the Archangel Michael to fight demons as an Immortal Executioner, Darach now opposes all evil in the mortal world. His life is solitary—but when he rescues a young woman who not only sees demons but battles them herself, he is captivated by her courage and beauty. Abigail Dupree is not looking for love. But when a tall, dark demon fighter with a sexy brogue intervenes in her hunt, she’s fascinated. She should run away—but then his gentle yet sizzling touch ensnares her heart. When a demon from Darach’s past sets his sights on Abby, Darach will do anything to protect her—but for Abby, losing him would be worse than death. Together they must fight the demons of past and present, and the possibility that evil could destroy them both, before they find the gift of love.

SKY: Tell us a little bit about you.

ABIGAIL: I’m nothing special. I just have visions and can spot a demon when he hides inside a human body. Not looking for love at all.

SKY: Remembering the moment you first laid eyes on Darach, what thoughts come to mind?

ABIGAIL: Oh yes, I remember. I was fighting a demon and the Highlander showed up. Tall, dark, and eyes that went from cobalt to silver in two seconds flat. Darach MacRath thought he could wipe my mind clean of seeing him, but he couldn’t.

SKY: He has one trait you adored from the start. What is it? You know without doubt he appreciates one of your traits. Share what you think that is.

ABIGAIL: His absurd way of thinking he needs to protect me all the time. It’s ridiculous, although, sweet. Oh, and let’s not forget his way of making clothes disappear without moving a muscle. So handy! I think my darling Darach would consider my heart an attribute, although he thinks it gets me into way too much trouble.

SKY: He has one trait you’d change if you could. What is it? Oh yeah, there’s a trait you know he’d change about you…fess up!

ABIGAIL: The one trait I would change is his stubbornness. He thinks that all he has to do is go for it, and nothing will happen to him. I fear for his life at times when he’s fighting demons. My trait he would change would be my inability to listen to him being bossy. I don’t like being told what to do.

SKY: Love is in the air. What is the single most romantic thing he’s done for you?

ABIGAIL: Oh there are so many things, but finding my grandparents rings that were pawned to send me to college back in the day and returning them to me. Also giving me roses and having this not sure if she’ll like them look on his face.

SKY: He has a feature that draws your eye every time. Care to share? His eye constantly roams to a particular part of your person. Tell, tell!

ABIGAIL: I love every part of the man, even his stubborn brain, but his eyes. They go from black to silver when he is emotional or sexually turned on. I love it. It’s like knowing a bit a head of time how he’s affected. I think he probably touches on my eyes, they remind him of a loch back in medieval Scotland, but then his hands go for other parts…lol.

SKY: How do you think Darach would answer the following… Our favorite thing to do together is…?

ABIGAIL: Oh by far, making love, but he has romantic moments as well. He likes to walk places, and when I’m with him, he takes my hand, and tucks me close to his side.

SKY: You and Darach just don’t see eye to eye on what issue?

ABIGAIL: My penchant for knowing where demons are and wanting to help him fight them. Darach is just a throwback, but of course, he’s over a thousand years old, give or take a decade or two.

SKY: He said one thing to you that you’ll never forget. What was it?

ABIGAIL: I love you. What else is there?

SKY:  I totally agree! Thanks so much for joining us, Abigail! It was a pleasure.

Purchase Immortal Justice.

Faith V. Smith’s ~ Website ~ Blog ~ Twitter ~ Facebook

Contact address: faith@faithvsmith.com

Be sure to swing in tomorrow as I welcome Darach Macrath over to A Writer’s Mind!

~Sky

Monday, June 27, 2011

MONDAY COVERS IT. Faith V. Smith's, IMMORTAL JUSTICE.

Welcome! Mondays are all about book covers here at A Writer’s Mind so sit back and enjoy learning more about the ‘story’ behind some top-notch covers.

This week it’s my pleasure to welcome over extremely talented author, Faith V. Smith to chat about the cover for her latest release, Immortal Justice.


From Faith’s lips to my blog…

“I chose this cover because I wanted something edgy, hot, and something that would show what Darach MacRath did as an immortal executioner. Cover artist Tamra Westberry delivered! It’s pretty much a melting pot of different scenes in the book. We went without a face so readers could put their own interpretation of Darach’s description from the words in the book. No, no rewards, but I am considering entering the cover.”

Sky here. Ah! Another fantastic cover by the fabulous Tamra Westberry! I could certainly see this winning some awards.

Let’s learn a bit more about IMMORTAL JUSTICE…

Over a millennium ago, Highlander Darach MacRath was murdered. Resurrected by the Archangel Michael to fight demons as an Immortal Executioner, Darach now opposes all evil in the mortal world. His life is solitary—but when he rescues a young woman who not only sees demons but battles them herself, he is captivated by her courage and beauty. Abigail Dupree is not looking for love. But when a tall, dark demon fighter with a sexy brogue intervenes in her hunt, she’s fascinated. She should run away—but then his gentle yet sizzling touch ensnares her heart. When a demon from Darach’s past sets his sights on Abby, Darach will do anything to protect her—but for Abby, losing him would be worse than death. Together they must fight the demons of past and present, and the possibility that evil could destroy them both, before they find the gift of love.

A little taste...

“Ye willna be needing a weapon, I will protect ye.”

His statement irritated Abby, but at the same time a part of her was just a tiny bit thrilled. It seemed immortal or not, a man always had the attitude of protecting the little woman—whether they needed it or not. Of course to be fair, he had saved her butt from the demon, but he needed to know she wasn’t some frightened babe in the woods.

“I beg to differ. If I’d had a knife I could have done some serious damage, and besides, you can’t protect me twenty-four-seven, Darach.”

“Ye will be protected at all times, Abby.”

“You’re missing the point. Maybe I don’t need a keeper. I have managed to take care of myself for over…” Abby decided he didn’t really have to know she was over thirty. “And what about when you’re asleep? You do sleep don’t you?”

Darach frowned, but answered, “Aye, I do sleep, but ’tis usually during the daylight hours. However now I will be sleeping at night in your bed with ye.”

Read a Review.

Faith V. Smith’s Website ~ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter

Be sure to swing in Thursday morn as the hero and heroine from IMMORTAL JUSTICE join me here at A Writer’s Mind for the End of the Week Character Blowout! I can tell already that I’m going to be drooling over hero, Darach MacRath. *Winks*

~Sky

Sunday, June 26, 2011

Astronomer's Corner. Small Asteroid to Whip Past Earth. June 27th.

New to A Writer’s Mind? If so, let me fill you in. This blog is mostly about authors and everything they have to offer. On occasion, and read within the ‘Astronomer’s Corner’ of my quarterly newsletter, is the latest happenings in outer space. Yep, it’s a passion of mine that my readers have to suffer through. But seriously, how much FUN is it???

So, in that I’ve an opening before this Monday Covers It feature, I’m going to share the latest…

Have you heard?

By NASA/JPL….

“Near-Earth asteroid 2011 MD will pass only 7,500 miles (12,000 kilometers) above Earth's surface Monday, June 27, at about 9:30 a.m. EDT. The asteroid was discovered by the LINEAR near-Earth object discovery team observing from Socorro, New Mexico.

The top diagram shows the trajectory of 2011 MD projected onto Earth's orbital plane over a 4-day interval. The diagram below it gives another view from the general direction of the Sun that indicates that 2011 MD will reach its closest Earth approach point in extreme southern latitudes (in fact, over the southern Atlantic Ocean).

This small asteroid, only between 15 and 65 feet (5 and 20 meters) in diameter, is in a very earthlike orbit about the Sun, but an orbital analysis indicates there is no chance it will actually strike Earth on Monday. The incoming trajectory leg passes several thousand kilometers outside the geosynchronous ring of satellites and the outgoing leg passes well inside the ring. One would expect an object of this size to come this close to Earth about every 6 years on average. For a brief time, it will be bright enough to be seen even with a modest-sized telescope.”

Sky here. I’m off the northeast coast of the United States, telescope aimed and ready. Yeah, yeah, I’m probably out of range but darn if I won’t be dragging my five year old out with me to see what we can spy! Can’t hurt, right?

To all of you astronomers out there that can view this… Nice! I love how we hear about these near asteroids mere days before they pass.

See you Monday morn when I welcome Faith V. Smith over.

~Sky

Friday, June 17, 2011

Need a Good Photographer? OXimages is the next BIG thing.

Welcome! If you’re popping in for the first time, glad to have you over. Typically, this blog runs weekly author events promoting everything from Monday Covers It features to End of Week Character Blowouts. However, this week I’m going to be M.I.A.. It’s time to take a much needed 'breather.' Hitting the beach for a week!

Yet I couldn’t leave you without something to check out while I was away. Therefore, I’m leaving you with the best of the best…

Live in the Tampa Bay area and looking for a fabulous photographer? Then look no further!

My dear friend Amanda is the founder and CEO for a very successful photography company called OXimages. Everything's covered. Events ~ Weddings ~ Unions ~ Ox Babies ~ Portraits ~ Fine Art ~ Powerful ~ Professional ~ Personal

Whether or not you live in Florida, I can't rave enough about OXimages. It's really taking off. Not surprising in the least. To learn more about their services click HERE. I’ve peppered this post with a mere fraction of OXimage photos. Fantastic, aren't they?

Please note. For those of you who closely follow this blog, Ashlynn Monroe’s winner will be announced a week from Monday (So sorry about the wait!) Also, tune in as I welcome romance author, Faith V. Smith to A Writer’s Mind’s, Monday Covers It blog feature on June 27th!

See you all again next week. Until then, be good.

Hugs and Best Always,

~Sky


CHARACTER BLOWOUT. Day Two. Ashlynn Monroe's, Vampire Gabriel Interview. Chance to win!!!

It’s DAY TWO of A Writer’s Mind, CHARACTER BLOWOUT!

What does that mean? Pretty simple. You’ve arrived here in the nick of time. How so? Well, you get to meet a vampire today. His name is Gabriel Leleux and he’s jumped out of Ashlynn Monroe’s latest tale, PRAY FOR ME, to spend some time with us and allow me to grill him with a few questions.

So why would Gabriel allow this? Well, he’s participating in, A Writer’s Mind Character Blowout and that means he’s subjected himself to what I like to call, 'The Newlywed Game’ done blog style. Gabriel knows that I interviewed his love, Harley yesterday and was willing to pop in today to answer similar questions. You’ll notice as you read that I added snippets from Harley’s responses yesterday so that you could enjoy comparing. I highly recommend that you check out HARLEY'S INTERVIEW afterward to really ‘hear’ her voice.

There’s a contest being held! Ashlynn Monroe would like to offer one random lucky commenter that comments on both interviews a copy of PRAY FOR ME. 

Let’s learn a bit more about PRAY FOR ME…

Gabriel put his faith in his God and his king…That was centuries ago. Harley is proud of her heritage and when she has the chance to give her hometown historical society a boost by booking an eccentric Swiss expert, she has no idea she booked someone who actually lived the history. Immortality is a long time to have a broken heart. Unable to stop himself, Gabriel draws the brilliant historian into his life. Harley discovers far more than Gabriel ever expected about history, his history! A quest to give Gabriel an answer to an old question will introduce them to the danger of a new enemy. Is love enough when your love wants you body, soul and blood?

So are you ready to ‘meet’ Gabriel Leleux? I know I am. Here we go…

SKY: Gabriel, tell us a little bit about you.

GABRIEL: Thank you for this opportunity Sky. I was born in France during the eleventh century. My brother and I joined the order of the Templar Knights before the order was disbanded. We were in hiding until the Grand Master was burned at the stake. That was the night I died, reborn as a vampire.

(Harley’s response… I’m a huge history buff. I love my job, with the state of Wisconsin preserving historical sights. I’m divorced, no brothers and sister, but my parents are great. I’m just a quiet average girl.)

SKY: Remembering the moment you first laid eyes on Harley, what thoughts come to mind?

GABRIEL: I wasn’t expecting such a delicious little mortal. I assumed she’d be a bit…frumpy.

(Harley’s response… OH-MY-GOD Gabriel is the hottest guy on Earth and I was expecting some old guy. Instead this sexy young mouth-watering piece of eye candy is standing there)

SKY: Harley has one trait you adored from the start. What is it? Hands down, she appreciates one of your traits…what do you think that is?

GABRIEL: How that brilliant mind could go from serious to sexual in a heartbeat. Mmm, good question Sky, she’d probably say my mind, but I know it’s my body.

(Harley’s response… , his brain. He might be delicious and buff, but I love a guy who can think. Umm, I think I’m blushing but I’m going to say my curves. He’s a bit old fashioned in what he sees as hot.)

SKY: *Grins* I enjoy your… modesty, Gabriel. *snickers* Harley has one trait you’d change if you could. What is it? You figure there’s probably a trait she might want to change about you… care to share?

GABRIEL: Oh, I’m going to be in the doghouse, but that little imp can snore to wake the dead. I’m sure she’d say my oldfashioned alpha male ‘tude.

(Harley’s response… Ha, he’s going to kill me but I’d love to change how cold his feet get in bed, even under the covers. I’m perfect, and he’d totally agree.)

SKY: Snore! *chuckles* But love is in the air. What is the single most romantic thing you’ve done for her?

GABRIEL: I died for her.

(Harley’s response… He died for me.)

SKY: Harley has a feature that draws your eye every time. Care to share? She can’t stare at you enough… but where is she staring? Now’s the time to gloat about your thick head of hair. *Sky sniggers* Truth! Do you think it’s your eyes? Chest? Etc.

GABRIEL: Her round backside, oh lord I can’t stop looking at it. She’s such an innocent thing, but she’s always feeling these biceps, I’m guessing that’s what she’d say.

(Harley’s response… The man has the most soulful eyes.)

SKY: How do you think Harley would answer the following… Our favorite thing to do together is…?

GABRIEL: We’re a bit square, I’d say our weekly trip to the museum.

(Harley’s response… I’d say hangin’ in the library)

SKY: You and Harley don’t see eye to eye on what issue?

GABRIEL: **snickers**Her mother!

(Harley’s response… Who’s really to blame for the French Revolution.)

SKY: Harley said one thing to you that you’ll never forget. What was it?

GABRIEL: Gabriel, I’m yours, always.

(Harley’s response… “Thank you for enjoying my first sunrise in centuries with me. I love you Harley.”)

SKY: Gabriel, I can’t tell you how fantastic it was having you visit, A Writer’s Mind. You and Harley are a great match! Thanks so much for stopping by. I look forward to reading, PRAY FOR ME.

Purchase Pray For Me.

Ashlynn’s Website ~ Twitter ~ Facebook ~ Blog

Contact Ashylnn at authorashlynnmonroe@gmail.com

Don’t forget that there’s a contest running! One random lucky commenter that comments on both interviews will win a copy of the book. Contest ends Saturday, June 18th, 12 AM EST.

~Sky

Wednesday, June 15, 2011

CHARACTER BLOWOUT. Harley Shares All. Ashlynn Monroe's, PRAY FOR ME. Chance to win!!!

Welcome! It’s time for A Writer’s Mind weekly CHARACTER BLOWOUT. Popping in for the first time? Here’s the scoop. This particular blog feature is designed to mimic the well known, The Newlywed Game save it’s done fresh, new and very much BLOG style. Thursdays we get to know the heroine from some of your favorite tales. Friday, the hero.


By Friday we’re all wide eyed as we compare their answers.

This week it’s my pleasure to welcome over Harley Kaelin and Gabriel Leleux from Ashlynn Monroe’s, PRAY FOR ME. I just ‘met’ Ashlyn via featuring her here at A Writer’s Mind but can tell already that she writes my kind of books. A lot of her tales cover the mind-bending excitement that comes when one combines good solid history with the untapped realm of the paranormal.

This just in... Ashlynn would like to host a contest. "One random lucky commenter that comments on both interviews will win a copy of Pray For Me.”

Nice! Thanks, Ashlynn.

Okay, before I begin the interview I thought we’d learn a bit about PRAY FOR ME…

Gabriel put his faith in his God and his king…That was centuries ago. Harley is proud of her heritage and when she has the chance to give her hometown historical society a boost by booking an eccentric Swiss expert, she has no idea she booked someone who actually lived the history. Immortality is a long time to have a broken heart. Unable to stop himself, Gabriel draws the brilliant historian into his life. Harley discovers far more than Gabriel ever expected about history, his history! A quest to give Gabriel an answer to an old question will introduce them to the danger of a new enemy. Is love enough when your love wants you body, soul and blood?

SKY: Harley, tell us a little bit about you.

HARLEY: Hi Sky, I’m a huge history buff. I love my job, with the state of Wisconsin preserving historical sights. I’m divorced, no brothers and sister, but my parents are great. I’m just a quiet average girl.

SKY: Remembering the moment you first laid eyes on Gabriel, what thoughts come to mind?

HARLEY: OH-MY-GOD Gabriel is the hottest guy on Earth and I was expecting some old guy. Instead this sexy young mouth-watering piece of eye candy is standing there reminding me how I so needed to get laid. Hot and a history expert, I couldn’t have ordered a more appealing male to lust for.

SKY: He has one trait you adored from the start. What is it? You know without doubt he appreciates one of your traits. Share what you think that is.

HARLEY: Well…great question Sky, his brain. He might be delicious and buff, but I love a guy who can think. Umm, I think I’m blushing but I’m going to say my curves. He’s a bit old fashioned in what he sees as hot.

SKY: Have to agree, a guy with brains tends to lead the pack when it comes to potential ‘hotties.’ Gabriel has one trait you’d change if you could. What is it? Oh yeah, there’s a trait you know he’d change about you…fess up!

HARLEY: Ha, he’s going to kill me but I’d love to change how cold his feet get in bed, even under the covers. I’m perfect, and he’d totally agree.

SKY: I get that. Cold feet under the covers is a ‘brrr’ factor most of us would skip if we could. *grins* But love is in the air. What is the single most romantic thing he’s done for you?

HARLEY: He died for me.

SKY: Wow! Can’t beat that! Gabriel has a feature that draws your eye every time. Care to share? His eye constantly roams to a particular part of your person. Tell, tell!

HARLEY: The man has the most soulful eyes. I’m blushing again and I don’t think I should tell.

SKY: How do you think Gabriel would answer the following… Our favorite thing to do together is…?

HARLEY: This is going so nerdy, but I’d say hangin’ in the library.

SKY: My kind of gal. You and Gabriel just don’t see eye to eye on what issue?

HARLEY: Who’s really to blame for the French Revolution. Read more on this at Wiki: French Revolution

SKY: I’d blame it on Louis XIV but I’m always one to go after the guy who made the ‘domino affect’ inevidable. Can’t wait to read PRAY FOR ME so I know who debated what between you and Gabriel! Okay, back to business. He said one thing to you that you’ll never forget. What was it?

HARLEY: “Thank you for enjoying my first sunrise in centuries with me. I love you Harley.”

SKY: Oh, so romantic! It was great having you over, Harley. Can't wait to interview Gabriel tomorrow! My type of guy. *winks*

Dying to read this? Purchase Pray For Me HERE.

Ashlynn Monroe's Website ~ Twitter ~ Facebook ~ Blog

Be sure to swing in tomorrow as I welcome sexy-as-hell, Gabriel over to chat!

~Sky

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Click ONE Link. Instantly Raise 10¢ That'll Allow USA SERVICE MEMBERS to Call Home for Two Minutes!!!


Happy Flag Day Everyone!

I saw this on the news this morn and knew I had to share. If you have a second... literally ONE second, you can help support the US Military today.

The website Taste of Home is doing something fantastic. Head over to their Flag Cake (click Flag Cake) page and you automatically help raise 10¢ for the USO. Every dime raised allows a service member to call home free for 2 minutes.

So what are you waiting for? Let's help our guys and gals fighting overseas connect with their families!

Best Always,
~Sky

Saturday, June 11, 2011

BOOK TRAILERS BREATHER. Beth Trissel shares some FANTASTIC trailers! Chance to win!

Ahhh, the weekend’s here and it’s time to wind down with A Writer’s Mind’s BOOK TRAILER BREATHER. This time around I’ve a special treat for you. FOUR book trailers! Each and every one shares with you a glimpse inside one of Beth Trissel’s fantastic novels.

If you’re joining us for the first time, I highly recommend that you check out Beth’s, SOMEWHERE MY LASS, Character Blowout. Done The Newlywed Game blog style, I interviewed the hero and heroine from her tale. It was SUCH a blast! If you have a sec or two, check out NEIL’S INTERVIEW. From there you can view Mora’s.

ALSO, there's a contest running. One lucky commenter wins an Ecopy of SOMEWHERE MY LASS!

Okay, let’s get started. Before every trailer Beth will be ‘speaking’ as she shares a bit of the story behind each book trailer.

SOMEWHERE MY LOVE… murder mystery/ghost story romance novel

Somewhere my Love was my first trailer and my favorite. Pam Roller was a big help putting all the elements together for me. I love how the story flows with the music, and ‘creepy guy.’

Star-crossed lovers have a rare chance to reclaim the love cruelly denied them in the past, but can they grasp this brief window in time before it is too late? Newly arrived at Foxleigh, the gracious old Wentworth home in Virginia, British born Julia Morrow is excited at the prospect of a summer working as a guide in the stately house and herb garden. She quickly discovers the historic plantation holds far more. She becomes obsessed with the portrait of handsome Cole Wentworth, killed in a quarrel over the lovely English lady, Julia Maury, two hundred years ago. Then she meets his double, William, the only remaining Wentworth heir. Somehow, Julia must persuade Will that their fates are entwined with those of Cole Wentworth and Julia Maury, and that the man who killed his ancestor has returned to enact the deadly cycle again, or she will lose him twice. The blade is about to fall.



Having trouble viewing this video? Click HERE.

"As I read Somewhere My Love I recalled the feelings I experienced the first time I read Daphne DuMaurier’s Rebecca." ~Joysann, Publishers Weekly

"Ms. Trissel’s alluring style of writing invites the reader into a world of fantasy and makes it so believable it is spellbinding." ~Camellia, Long and Short Reviews

For more on this novel visit my Website.

Join me at my blog, One Writer's Way.

Purchase SOMEWHERE MY LOVE at Amazon or The Wild Rose Press.

****

ENEMY OF THE KING… American historical romance novel

As usual this trailer was an effort to make and I’m grateful for the help of my talented friend Pam Roller. I think the song is poignantly beautiful and I listened to scores of them before making this selection.
This story was partly inspired by an enormous amount of research into my colonial American ancestors and the high drama of the Revolution.

1780 South Carolina, spies and intrigue, a vindictive ghost, the battle of King’s Mountain, Patriots and Tories, pounding adventure, pulsing romance…

While Loyalist Meriwether Steele recovers from illness in the stately home of her beloved guardian, Jeremiah Jordan, she senses the haunting presence of his late wife. When she learns that Jeremiah is a Patriot spy and shoots Captain Vaughan, the British officer sent to arrest him, she is caught up on a wild ride into Carolina back country, pursued both by the impassioned captain and the vindictive ghost. Will she remain loyal to her king and Tory twin brother or risk a traitor’s death fighting for Jeremiah? If Captain Vaughan snatches her away, he won’t give her a choice.



Having trouble viewing this? Click HERE.

"An amazing and vibrant look into the American Revolution…this sexy historical is a must read!" ~Coffee Time Romance And More

For more on this novel please visit my Website.

Purchase ENEMY OF THE KING at The Wild Rose Press and Amazon.

****
THROUGH THE FIRE… Native American historical romance novel

The trailer for Through the Fire was a real labor of love to make and a team effort. Pam Roller put all my pics and narrative together with the song I finally found. My mom, Pat Churchman, took a number of the scenic photographs. My artist brother John Churchman helped with the photo of Shoka and Rebecca by adding her to that image.

At the height of the French and Indian War, a young English widow ventures into the colonial frontier in search of a fresh start. She never expects to find it in the arms of the half-Shawnee, half-French warrior who makes her his prisoner in the raging battle to possess a continent––or to be aided by a mysterious white wolf and a holy man.



Having trouble viewing this? Click HERE.

"Through the Fire is full of interesting characters, beautifully described scenery, and vivid action sequences. It is a must read for any fan of historical romance." ~Poinsettia, Long and Short Reviews

For more on this novel please visit my Website.

Purchase THROUGH THE FIRE at The Wild Rose Press and Amazon.

****
DAUGHTER OF THE WIND… historical fantasy

This trailer was made by a budding young filmmaker and her acting associates. I provided the narrative and the music. She did the rest.

A Handsome frontiersman, Mysterious Scotswoman, Bearwalking Shawnee Warrior, Dark Secret, Pulsing Romance…

Autumn, 1784: A tragic secret from Karin McNeal's past haunts the young Scots-Irish woman who longs to know more of her mother’s death and the mysterious father no one will name. The elusive voices she hears in the wind hint at the dramatic changes soon to unfold in her life among the Scot’s settled in the mist-shrouded Alleghenies. Jack McCray, a wounded stranger who staggers through the door on the eve of her twentieth birthday and anniversary of her mother’s death, holds the key to unlocking the past. Will she let this handsome frontiersman lead her to the truth and into his arms, or seek the shelter of her fiercely possessive grandfather? Is it only her imagination or does something, or someone, wait beyond the brooding ridges—for her?



Having trouble viewing this? Click HERE.

“Ms. Trissel’s alluring style of writing invites the reader into a world of fantasy and makes it so believable it is spellbinding.” ~Camellia, Long and Short Reviews

For more on this novel please visit my Website.

Purchase DAUGHTER OF THE WIND at The Wild Rose Press and Amazon.

Sky here. Beautiful book trailers, Beth. Well done!

Enjoy your weekend everyone.

~Sky

Friday, June 10, 2011

CHARACTER BLOWOUT. Day Two. Scotsman, Neil MacKenzie has been interviewed! Chance to WIN!!!

Welcome! You’ve arrived at A Writer’s Mind just in time to enjoy DAY TWO of Beth Trissel’s, CHARACTER BLOWOUT. For those of you joining us for the first time today, this blog event is sort of like The Newlywed Game blog style. Thursdays, I interview the heroine from some of your favorite stories. Friday, the hero. Yesterday I interviewed SOMEWHERE MY LASS’s, Mora. Today, I’m welcoming over her hero, Neil MacKenzie.

What makes this so much fun? Comparing the answers and seeing how well the hero and heroine really know one another. Because this event's fairly new I’ve added snippets from MORA’S INTERVIEW. You should definitely take a peek at it when you have a chance.

Beth is also hosting a contest. One lucky commenter on any of her posts between now and Saturday are entered for a chance to win an Ecopy of SOMEWHERE MY LASS!

Alright, before we start the interview let’s learn a bit more about SOMEWHERE MY LASS…

Neil MacKenzie’s well ordered life turns to chaos when Mora Campbell shows up claiming he’s her fiancé from 1602 Scotland. Her avowal that she was chased to the future by clan chieftain, Red MacDonald, is utter nonsense, and Neil must convince her that she is just addled from a blow to her head–or so he believes until the MacDonald himself shows up wanting blood. Mora knows the Neil of the future is truly her beloved Niall who disappeared from the past. Although her kinsmen believe he’s dead, and she is now destined to marry Niall’s brother, she’s convinced that if she and Neil return to the past, all will be right.

The only problem is how to get back to 1602 before it’s too late. The balance of the present and future are in peril if she marries another, and the Neil of the present will cease to exist. An ancient relic and a few good friends in the future help pave the way back to the past, but will Mora and Neil be too late to save a love that began centuries before?

Time to interview Neil…

SKY: Neil, tell us a little bit about you.

NEIL: I could’ve sworn I was Neil MacKenzie, a frustrated graphic artist from Staunton, Virginia living in the Victorian home I inherited. But the strangest event occurred with the arrival of a striking young Scotswoman claiming I’m actually Niall MacKenize from 1602 Scotland. Oh, and I’m her fiancé.

(…Mora’s response… daughter of the Highlands, its windswept heights, hills colored with heath and heather…’tis here I belong, not in this foreign land where I’ve found myself)

SKY: Remembering the moment you first laid eyes on Mora, what thoughts come to mind?

NEIL: Where on earth did she come from? Then it struck me that she’s beautiful but bonkers. Likely from the blow to her head she says she received at the hands of a madman she calls The MacDonald. Mora must be my murdered housekeeper’s neice we were expecting from Scotland. Has to be, right?

(Mora’s response… he looked mightily familiar and I thought for certain he was my lost love, Niall MacKenize….)

SKY: Mora has one trait you adored from the start. What is it? Hands down, she appreciates one of your traits…what do you think that is?

NEIL: Mora exploded into my life and swept me into a new world pulsing with sensations, but then insanity can sometimes be entertaining. My friend Fergus thinks she’s possessed. As to what she finds appealing about me, I suppose it’s the man she thinks I am or should be. But sometimes when she looks into my eyes, I wonder if it’s me as well.

(Mora’s response… Niall (or Neil as he insists on being addressed) declares he delights in everything about me, save my fiery temper, he just cannot remember who I am. And he thinks I’m the one whose addled in the head…)

SKY: Mora has one trait you’d change if you could. What is it? You figure there’s probably a trait she might want to change about you… care to share?

NEIL: Mora needs a good neurologist, or a therapist. Fergus says an exorcist. She seems to want to beat me over the head until I recall some past life. Like I said, she’s bonkers.

(Mora’s response… His memory needs some prodding…)

SKY: Ha! Too funny! Love is in the air. What is the single most romantic thing you’ve done for her? .

NEIL: When I learned she’d never been to a prom, didn’t even know what one was, we danced in my living room. I tried to make it nice for her, what with the murder and that crazy man after us and all.

(Mora’s response… Held me close and led me in a strange, wonderful dance…)

SKY: Mora has a feature that draws your eye every time. Care to share? She can’t stare at you enough… but where is she staring? Now’s the time to gloat about your thick head of hair. *Sky sniggers* Truth! Do you think it’s your eyes? Chest? Etc.

NEIL: Mora looks me in the eyes as no one ever has, but I’ve noticed her focus traveling to other parts of me. I like to think she finds me even a fraction as amazing as I find her.

(Mora’s response… His forceful gray gaze, like the stone of the Highlands, captures my attention...and the tufts of hair curling at his strong neck like tendrils of ivy on a wall. He has the manner of a great chieftan, and sae handsome. His eyes may wander further afield than my face, but being a noble gentleman he swiftly returns his gaze to mine…)

SKY: How do you think Mora would answer the following… Our favorite thing to do together is…?

NEIL: Stay alive. We haven’t had much opportunity for anything else. There was that kiss…I shouldn’t have taken advantage of Mora in her vulnerable state, but couldn’t resist. I loved every second of her lips pressed to mine and she seemed to too, until I stupidly walked away. But she called me Niall, and I can’t make love to an insane woman. It wouldn’t be right.

(Mora’s response… Breathe the free air of the Highlands unharassed by the treacherous MacDonald, that is, if Neil remembers either one of us…)

SKY: You and Mora don’t see eye to eye on what issue?

NEIL: My memory, and I might add, her mental health.

(Mora’s response… Who he truly is…)

SKY: Mora said one thing to you that you’ll never forget. What was it?

NEIL: That I’d proposed to her. What the heck?

(Mora’s response… Asked me to be his wedded wife…once.)

SKY: Neil, it was FANTASTIC having you over. I have such a soft spot for Scotsmen! *winks* I must say, you and Mora sound fabulous! Really looking forward to reading SOMEWHERE MY LASS!



Beth Trissel’s Website ~ Wordpress ~ Twitter ~ Facebook

Don’t forget that there’s a contest running! One lucky commenter wins an Ecopy of SOMEWHERE MY LASS.

Be sure to swing back in tomorrow as we sit back, relax during A Writer’s Mind’s BOOK TRAILER BREATHER. This week we get to check out Beth’s trailers for SOMEWHERE MY LOVE, ENEMY OF THE KING, THROUGH THE FIRE and DAUGHTER OF THE WIND.

Best Regards,
~Sky

Thursday, June 9, 2011

CHARACTER BLOWOUT. Heroine Interview. Beth Trissel's, SOMEWHERE MY LASS.

It’s that time again! A Writer’s Mind END OF WEEK CHARACTER BLOWOUT continues. For those of you unfamiliar, this particular blog feature is all about interviewing the hero and heroine from some of your favorite tales. Thursday, the heroine. Friday, the hero. But it’s not as simple as that. Nope. These questions are designed to see how well the characters know one another. Grilled with similar questions, The Character Blowout is much like The Newlywed Game blog style!

This week I’m thrilled to welcome over Mora Campbell and Neil MacKenzie from Beth Trissel’s, SOMEWHERE MY LASS. Beth is graciously giving away a digital download of Somewhere My Lass. The winner will be chosen from guests who leave comments on any of her posts between now and Saturday.
Before I begin interviewing Mora, let’s learn a bit more about SOMEWHERE MY LASS (Time Travel/Fantasy Romance Novella)

Neil MacKenzie’s well ordered life turns to chaos when Mora Campbell shows up claiming he’s her fiancé from 1602 Scotland. Her avowal that she was chased to the future by clan chieftain, Red MacDonald, is utter nonsense, and Neil must convince her that she is just addled from a blow to her head–or so he believes until the MacDonald himself shows up wanting blood. Mora knows the Neil of the future is truly her beloved Niall who disappeared from the past. Although her kinsmen believe he’s dead, and she is now destined to marry Niall’s brother, she’s convinced that if she and Neil return to the past, all will be right.

The only problem is how to get back to 1602 before it’s too late. The balance of the present and future are in peril if she marries another, and the Neil of the present will cease to exist. An ancient relic and a few good friends in the future help pave the way back to the past, but will Mora and Neil be too late to save a love that began centuries before?

SKY: Mora, tell us a little bit about you.

MORA: I’m a daughter of the Highlands, its windswept heights, hills colored with heath and heather…’tis here I belong, not in this foreign land where I’ve found myself.

SKY: Ah, sounds beautiful. Remembering the moment you first laid eyes on Neil, what thoughts come to mind?

MORA: When I first saw Neil MacKenzie, he looked mightily familiar and I thought for certain he was my lost love, Niall MacKenzie.

SKY: Neil has one trait you adored from the start. What is it? You know without doubt he appreciates one of your traits. Share what you think that is.

MORA: Ach well, Niall (or Neil as he insists on being addressed) declares he delights in everything about me, save my fiery temper, he just cannot remember who I am. And he thinks I’m the one whose addled in the head.

SKY: He has one trait you’d change if you could. What is it? Oh yeah, there’s a trait you know he’d change about you…fess up!

MORA: His memory needs some prodding.

SKY: Love is in the air. What is the single most romantic thing he’s done for you?

MORA: Held me close and led me in a strange, wonderful dance.

SKY: How romantic! Nial has a feature that draws your eye every time. Care to share? His eye constantly roams to a particular part of your person. Tell, tell!

MORA: His forceful gray gaze, like the stone of the Highlands, captures my attention...and the tufts of hair curling at his strong neck like tendrils of ivy on a wall. He has the manner of a great chieftan, and sae handsome. His eyes may wander further afield than my face, but being a noble gentleman he swiftly returns his gaze to mine.

SKY: How do you think Neil would answer the following… Our favorite thing to do together is…?

MORA: Breathe the free air of the Highlands unharassed by the treacherous MacDonald, that is, if Neil remembers either one of us.

SKY: You and Neil just don’t see eye to eye on what issue?

MORA: Who he truly is.

SKY: He said one thing to you that you’ll never forget. What was it?

MORA: Asked me to be his wedded wife…once.

SKY: Thanks so much for joining us today, Mora! I can’t wait to have Neil over tomorrow!



Beth Trissel’s Website ~ Wordpress ~ Twitter ~ Facebook

Don’t forget that there’s a contest running. One lucky commenter wins a digital copy of SOMEWHERE MY LASS. Contest ends Sunday, 12 AM, EST.

Be sure to swing in tomorrow as I welcome, Neil MacKenzie to A Writer's Mind!

Cheers,

~Sky

Tuesday, June 7, 2011

MIDWEET MEET & GREET. Getting to know author M. Kate Quinn.

Welcome! You’ve arrived just in time to enjoy A Writer’s Mind's MIDWEEK MEET & GREET. This blog event focuses on getting to know some of your favorite authors better. This week it’s my pleasure to introduce you to romance author, M. Kate Quinn.

SKY: Great to have you over, M. Kate. Tell us a little bit about yourself. Did you always want to be an author? When did you first start writing? What have you published?

M. KATE: Yes, it’s been a life-long dream. When my kids were growing up and I had some stops and starts with my writing goals. But, after they were off on their own, I dedicated real time to learning the craft, taking seminars, workshops, and writing. I have just signed a contract with The Wild Rose Press with my third novel, Brookside Daisy (tentative title) which is the third in my Perennials Series. Book I in the series, Summer Iris debuted last summer and has recently been named a finalist in the Golden Quill Awards in their “Best First Book” category, which thrills me. Book II Moonlight and Violet just released.

SKY: I like to write at night. Inspires me. Where and when do you like to write? Why?

M. KATE: I write during the day mostly. There are times when I put in a night, but for the most part I feel like I’ve got my “game on” in the a.m.

SKY: You know you’ll always pen a particular genre. What genre and why? You might also dabble in other genres. Care to share what those are and why?

M. KATE: I write women’s fiction. My current releases are romantic comedies with heroines that are considered “older.” I’m a natural-born wise guy with a deep sense of romance in my nature. Writing romantic comedies feels like what I was born to write. I’ve also thought about dabbling in YA with a mystery series perhaps. I was a major Nancy Drew fan. Also, I like cozy mysteries and think I may try my hand at that down the road.

SKY: We writers are often urged to write what we know. Have you? Perhaps implemented a scene from your life or somewhere you’ve traveled. Tell, tell!

M. KATE: Well, truth be told, there’s a lot of me in all my books. I do write what I know in terms of feelings, although the circumstances are fiction. I write about love and loss and hopes and dreams and kids and our expectations of them, what we yearn for in our men, what our girlfriends mean to us, our tricky relationships with our families. That’s what I know and what I really believe most women identify with and enjoy.

SKY: Let’s get down and dirty. Writers typically love to read. You especially enjoy certain authors for a good reason. Why? Their use of prose, voice, characterization, etc. You’ve got pet peeves as well. What are they?

M. KATE: I am a big fan of Jennifer Weiner. My writing has been compared to a cross between Jennifer and Debbie Macomber. One of my favorite authors is Anita Shreve. She can turn a phrase like nobody’s business. Also, I’m a new fan Barth Stein, the author of “The Art of Racing in the Rain.” Excellent storyteller. Too chicken to read too much horror, but man do I respect Stephen King. He’s the master. Peeves? James Patterson’s collaborative efforts fall short of his excellence.

SKY: You’re writing or have written the book that will always hold a special place in your heart. What is it and why?

M. KATE: This is a tough one. My first book Summer Iris has a lot of heart in it and a lot of what I’ve experienced in my life. She’s gone through a lot of the same things I have. Yet, my second book, Moonlight and Violet highlights the dynamic of two sisters and their kooky Italian mother, which personifies my relationships with my own sister and mom.

SKY: We’re all guilty. Though we like variety, we tend to adore a certain type of hero and heroine. What does your perfect hero look like? Tell us about his personality. Same goes for the heroine.

M. KATE: That’s funny, because in real life I usually like ‘em blond. Think Redford in his day, Richard Chamberlain in Thorn Birds. Yet, I also like them dark and powerful. However, the one thing my heroes have in common is that beneath the surface ticks a great man, one that can look at his flaws, can accept love, can give love, and is appealing in his being not-so-perfect .

SKY: What’s next for you? What are you currently writing?

M. KATE: Currently, while I’m not attending to edits of Brookside Daisy, I am working on my fourth book. This one is part of a new series that I’m tentatively calling The Postmark Series. In this group of romances, each heroine receives a letter that changes her life.

SKY: Where do you see yourself five years from now? Ten?

M. KATE: In five years I see myself continuing to blossom in this fabulous career of writing stories. Ten? On the beach while I write my stories.

SKY: Here goes. The grand finale. Share with us one thing you think readers would be surprised to know about you.

M. KATE: My readers would probably be surprised to know that I am interested in astrology and things of a mystical nature.

SKY: Great interview, M. Kate. Thanks so much for sharing!

M. KATE: Thanks so much for having me, Sky. It’s been my pleasure.

M. Kate’s Website ~ Blog

Friend on Facebook

~Sky

Monday, June 6, 2011

MONDAY COVERS IT. The 'story' behind FOREVER FREED'S book cover. Last Chance to WIN BIG!!!

*Wide Stretch* Grab a cup of tea and relax. Here at A Writer’s Mind we ease into Monday mornings. How so? Well, we like to enjoy a good book cover and today it’s all about Laura Kaye’s, FOREVER FREED.

If you’re joining us for the first time this morn, let me catch you up. Laura Kaye has been visiting this blog for quite a few days. Last week her characters, Samantha and Lucien visited and participated in what’s called the END OF WEEK CHARACTER BLOWOUT. Translation? It was kind of like The Newlywed Game. These fabulous characters, hero and heroine, popped over and answered similar questions. Through these questions we learned how well they REALLY knew one another. It was SO much fun!! If you have a sec, check out LUCIEN’S INTERVIEW. From there you can read Samantha’s.

After that we all took a BOOK TRAILER BREATHER Saturday and crawled inside the world of Laura Kaye’s, FOREVER FREED via a fantastic book trailer. Click HERE to check it out.

Now it’s time to start the work week out right by learning more about the ‘story’ behind FOREVER FREED’s cover. Oh, wait! Before we do, Laura would like to once more remind everyone that a contest is running!

Here’s the scoop…

FOREVER FREED GIVEAWAY: At the end of my four-day appearance, I will give away one pdf format ebook and one signed print book of Forever Freed. To enter to win, you must do all of the following:

1) comment on one or more of my posts at A Writer’s Mind (1 comment per day counts for an entry, but you can comment on the different days for a total of 4 entries)

2) follow me on twitter (@laurakayeauthor)

3) follow my blog (http://laurakayeauthor.blogspot.com/). Leave your twitter name in your comments so I can verify following.

Current twitter AND blog followers are eligible to win and can enter by leaving your twitter name in your comments AND tweeting at least one of my A Writer’s Mind posts (be sure to @ me so I see it!). Winner to be announced on June 7!

Sky here. Very cool contest, Laura. Thanks! Alright, time to learn more about this cover. From Laura’s lips to this blog…

“Forever Freed has offered me a lot of writing firsts: first novel completed, first novel sold, first cover, first book trailer. The Wild Rose Press uses a cover information form to solicit copious details about the book to inspire the cover artist’s work. Cover artist Angela Anderson gave me a lot of what I wanted—she used the Detroit skyline, she used the darkish color scheme I envisioned, she found a model pretty closely mirroring vampire hero Lucien Demarco’s physical traits. It makes sense for Lucien to be featured on the cover because it really is his story. The romance is central, don’t get me wrong, but Lucien’s the character who undergoes the biggest transformation, which is also why the book’s told in his first person point of view. His expression on the cover creates the perfect dark feel, gothic even, and I love it!”

Sky again. I must say, LOVE that this story is from Lucien’s point of view. I come across so few stories told that way. I can’t wait to read this. I already know it’s going to be one of my favorites!

Laura, it was such a pleasure having you visit. I wish you much success in all that you do!

Before we say goodbye let’s take one last look at what FOREVER FREED is all about…

A heart can break, even one that no longer beats.

I stalk my new neighbors, a single mother and her child, drawn by the irresistible scent of their joy and love. I crave their blood, starved for some healing respite from my ancient grief. Now to lure them into my grasp.

But they surprise me. Little Olivia accepts me without fear or reservation—talking, smiling, offering innocent affection that tugs at my long-lost humanity. Her mother, Samantha, seeks me out when she should stay away, offering sweet friendship, and calling to the forgotten man within me. They lure me instead.

Ah, Dio, Lucien, run and spare them while you can

What the critics are saying…

Marissa, Sizzling Hot Book Reviews, 5/5 Hearts!: “Forever Freed has something a little different....packed with memorable characters...very distinctive and well written....Laura Kaye pulls out all the stops to torment the characters before the ending and does it well enough that I really got into it. Don’t know about you, but I love it when the author can get me into a story or character enough to fully feel their emotions. Boy, did I this time....more than just a paranormal story, you get exceptional entertainment!”

Tishia, Paranormal Opinion, 5/5 Stars!: “Really loved this book! I definitely connected with these characters....Forever Freed has everything I could want in a book all combined nicely in a pretty little package. It's about love, passion, family, forgiveness... It's a heartwarming story that will have you feeling just about every emotion there is. I laughed and I cried, which I don't do often.”

Garnet, Words That Sparkle, 4.5/5 Sparkles!: "This story is not just another vampire love story, its a journey of hope between a man who stopped living, and a woman who taught him to love....It was both believable and fresh, which says a lot considering the genre of this tale. I'd never read a book by Laura Kaye before, but I can say with utmost certainty that I'll be looking for more in the future....Ms. Kaye is phenomenal at writing characters...."

BUY FOREVER FREED.

Laura Kaye's Website ~ Blog ~ Twitter: @laurakayeauthor

Be sure to pop in tomorrow as I welcome author M. Kate Quinn to A Writer's Mind, MIDWEEK MEET AND GREET!

Have a sec? Want to meet another great author? Pop over to The Write Life now!

~Sky

Sunday, June 5, 2011

Stephanie Nielson. Plane crash victim. A story of survival. If we could all be like her.


Welcome. Every once in a while I have a day to myself here at A Writer’s Mind. I debated whether I should share this or not but in the end I thought, my readers NEED to know about this. So here’s the story…

Have you heard of STEPHANIE NIELSON, mother of four and PLANE CRASH SURVIVOR? I hadn’t heard of her until I watched Glenn Beck. Yep, I’m a fan. But moreover, who he talked about during one of his programs this past week REALLY touched me. Made all of my problems seem so very small… almost non-existent.

SHE became my hero. Who is she? Stephanie Nielson. A woman who has persevered through so much. A woman who got in a plane with her husband and should have died when the plane crashed. But she didn't. Instead, she was burned on over 80% of her body...

Christian and Stepanie Nielson. The romance. Before the accident…



Trouble viewing this? Click HERE.

The first two interviews with them after the accident are shown below and how she looks now. I watched all of the program. Was simply amazed at this woman’s endurance… how much she truly 'survived'. How peaceful and happy she looks. Could I do that? Could I be that strong? Sighs. I highly doubt it. Could you?

At this point they grow lumps on her back to use her own skin to replace what they can. After all, our bodies will only accept our own skin so they had to grow hers...on her. Now, can you even imagine what she’s gone through thus far?





Have a spare sec? Check out her blog Nie Nie Dialogues Blogspot. A good blog to keep an eye on. I've already bookmarked it.

I do hope a few of you head over and check out Stephanie's blog. Truth told, I'd like to think I can sit here and say I'd be half as courageous as her, as top-notch. But I don't know. She is one very amazing woman.

God bless, Stephanie.
~Sky

Saturday, June 4, 2011

BOOK TRAILER BREATHER. Kick back time! Laura Kaye's, FOREVER FREED. Win Twice!!!!

Phew! The weekend’s finally here! I hope everyone had a great work week. Now it’s time to kick back, grab a cup of coffee and enjoy a good book trailer.

If you’ve popped in the past few days than you’ve had the pleasure of reading Samantha and Lucien’s interviews. These superb characters are straight out of Laura Kaye’s, FOREVER FREED. If you’ve heard of The Newlywed Game, you HAVE to check out these interviews as they were designed to see how well Samantha and Lucien really know one another. Too curious how it went? Then check out LUCIEN’S INTERVIEW now! From there you can read Samantha’s.

ALSO, there's a contest running hosted by Laura. Here's what she has to say about it...

FOREVER FREED GIVEAWAY: At the end of my four-day appearance, I will give away one pdf format ebook and one signed print book of Forever Freed. To enter to win, you must do all of the following:

1) comment on one or more of my posts at A Writer’s Mind (1 comment per day counts for an entry, but you can comment on the different days for a total of 4 entries)

2) follow me on twitter (@laurakayeauthor)

3) follow my blog (http://laurakayeauthor.blogspot.com/). Leave your twitter name in your comments so I can verify following.

Current twitter AND blog followers are eligible to win and can enter by leaving your twitter name in your comments AND tweeting at least one of my A Writer’s Mind posts (be sure to @ me so I see it!). Winner to be announced on June 7!

So are you ready to learn more about the trailer for FOREVER FREED? Good! I’m going to hand it over to Laura Kaye again so that she can share a little about the creation behind this beautiful trailer.

From Laura's lips to my blog…

“Forever Freed is about a reclusive, empathic vampire who falls in love with a woman he planned to kill and her young daughter, then must fight his ancient guilt, bloodlust, lie by omission, and an old vampire rival who threatens everything he holds dear. I made the trailer for Forever Freed after taking a book trailer workshop through the PRO section of the RWA. I was really psyched to try my hand at it, and fortunate that the model featured on the book’s cover had other stock images available, so I could show my hero, Lucien Demarco, in different ways in the trailer. As soon as I heard the music, I knew it was right for this story. Not only is the music moody and yearning, but the violin in it couldn’t be more perfect as Lucien plays the violin, and his music and instrument are a really important part of his characterization. I was thrilled with how it came together! So thrilled, in fact, I wrote an extensive how-to post on my blog detailing everything I’d learned about how to make book trailers.”


 
Have trouble viewing this trailer? Click HERE.
 
Sky here. Fantastic book trailer, Laura. I loved the music! Well done.
 
A bit more about FOREVER FREED...
 
A heart can break, even one that no longer beats.

I stalk my new neighbors, a single mother and her child, drawn by the irresistible scent of their joy and love. I crave their blood, starved for some healing respite from my ancient grief. Now to lure them into my grasp.

But they surprise me. Little Olivia accepts me without fear or reservation—talking, smiling, offering innocent affection that tugs at my long-lost humanity. Her mother, Samantha, seeks me out when she should stay away, offering sweet friendship, and calling to the forgotten man within me. They lure me instead.

Ah, Dio, Lucien, run and spare them while you can

What's being said about FOREVER FREED...

Marissa, Sizzling Hot Book Reviews, 5/5 Hearts!: “Forever Freed has something a little different....packed with memorable characters...very distinctive and well written....Laura Kaye pulls out all the stops to torment the characters before the ending and does it well enough that I really got into it. Don’t know about you, but I love it when the author can get me into a story or character enough to fully feel their emotions. Boy, did I this time....more than just a paranormal story, you get exceptional entertainment!”

Tishia, Paranormal Opinion, 5/5 Stars!: “Really loved this book! I definitely connected with these characters....Forever Freed has everything I could want in a book all combined nicely in a pretty little package. It's about love, passion, family, forgiveness... It's a heartwarming story that will have you feeling just about every emotion there is. I laughed and I cried, which I don't do often.”

BUY FOREVER FREED.

Laura Kaye's Website ~ Blog ~ Twitter: @laurakayeauthor

Forever Freed’s trailer is up for Best Book Trailer starting tomorrow, June 5 at YOU GOTTA READ VIDEOS. - FOREVER FREED is entry #5 and voting is June 21-26!
 
Be sure to pop in Monday as Laura chats about the 'story' behind FOREVER FREED'S book cover in A Writer's Mind's MONDAY COVERS IT feature.
 
Best Regards,
~Sky

Friday, June 3, 2011

CHARACTER BLOWOUT. His Turn! Laura Kaye's, FOREVER FREED. Win Big!!!

Welcome back! It's DAY TWO of A Writer’s Mind’s END OF WEEK CHARACTER BLOWOUT. For those of you joining me for the first time, here’s the run-down. Every Thursday and Friday an author−better yet the characters from their latest story−visit this blog to be interviewed. Thursday, we grill the heroine. Friday, the hero. It’s all about seeing how well the characters know one another. Ever heard of The Newlywed Game? Well this event is a lot like that!

This week it’s my pleasure to welcome over Samantha Sutton and Lucien Demarco from Laura Kaye’s latest release, FOREVER FREED. Yesterday, I interviewed Samantha. Today, Lucien. Because this event is still fairly new, I’ve added snippets from Samantha’s answers and posted them alongside Lucien’s. It's TOO much fun comparing their responses! Remember, Samantha’s responses are merely portions of her full answers. To  get a sense of who she really is, I highly recommend that you check out SAMANTHA’S INTERVIEW.

Before we get started, Laura would like everyone to know about the following…

FOREVER FREED GIVEAWAY: At the end of my four-day appearance, I will give away one pdf format ebook and one signed print book of Forever Freed. To enter to win, you must do all of the following:

1) comment on one or more of my posts at A Writer’s Mind (1 comment per day counts for an entry, but you can comment on the different days for a total of 4 entries)

2) follow me on twitter (@laurakayeauthor)

3) follow my BLOG. Leave your twitter name in your comments so I can verify following.

Current twitter AND blog followers are eligible to win and can enter by leaving your twitter name in your comments AND tweeting at least one of my A Writer’s Mind posts (be sure to @ me so I see it!). Winner to be announced on June 7!

Let’s learn a bit about FOREVER FREED…

A heart can break, even one that no longer beats.

I stalk my new neighbors, a single mother and her child, drawn by the irresistible scent of their joy and love. I crave their blood, starved for some healing respite from my ancient grief. Now to lure them into my grasp.

But they surprise me. Little Olivia accepts me without fear or reservation—talking, smiling, offering innocent affection that tugs at my long-lost humanity. Her mother, Samantha, seeks me out when she should stay away, offering sweet friendship, and calling to the forgotten man within me. They lure me instead.

Ah, Dio, Lucien, run and spare them while you can…

Okay, it’s time to have some fun! Let’s begin…

SKY: Tell us a little bit about yourself, Lucien.

LUCIEN: I… *shifts uncomfortably, straightens* I am a husband and a father. I…I’m sorry, I’m not very used to talking to people, or talking about myself.

(Samantha’s response…. mom to a beautiful little girl. I’m a nurse. Or, I was. I’m not working right now since the move to New York. But maybe someday I’ll go back again….)

SKY: Not a problem, Lucien! I don’t bite. *Grins* Remembering the moment you first laid eyes on Samantha Sutton, what thoughts come to mind?

LUCIEN: *deep breath* I was completely enthralled the first time I saw Samantha. With her beauty and her joy. I wanted her from the first, and not in ways I’m at all proud of. Next question, please.

(Samantha’s response… Lucien was…he was just gorgeous. Tall. The best hair—still! And so attentive. He always has made me feel like the only person in the room when I talk. *blushes* I remember stumbling a bit the first time we touched. I was just lost in his eyes….)

SKY: Samantha has one trait you adored from the start. What is it? Hands down, she appreciates one of your traits…what do you think that is?

LUCIEN: Samantha is everything sweet in the world. Her beautiful smiles every morning, her warmth wrapped around me, the sweetness of her emotions within me. I can’t separate those traits in my mind. She’s a package deal. One of my traits…she tells me she loves my eyes. *runs hands through hair* And that I’m good with Ollie.

(Samantha’s response… I don’t know how to pick just one! Okay, physical trait would be his eyes...
…... In terms of character trait, I adore how completely he loves me and Ollie. … I would say Lucien most likes that I’m happy most of the time, because he can feel it, and I know he hasn’t much felt it in his life.)

SKY: She has one trait you’d change if you could. What is it? You figure there’s probably a trait she might want to change about you… care to share?

LUCIEN: I’d make her immortal, so she would always be safe. But that’s her choice. And I love her more than my life, just as she is. *slow smiles* She probably wishes I could eat with her, though she’s long past the point of feeling self-conscious about eating in front of me.

(Samantha’s response… I would make him human, but only because he so desperately wants it. I love him just the way he is, and frankly find his immortal side completely thrilling. Hmm…that’s probably something he’d change. In flirting with the vampire in him, he says I play a little too much with fire, but I want to sustain him in every way I can, and he never takes too much. He’s going to die when he sees this! *grins* Well, not really…)

SKY: I can understand that, Lucien. Food is definitely one of the more enjoyable parts of being mortal! Love is in the air. What is the single most romantic thing you’ve done for her?

LUCIEN: *tugs hair off face* I, uh, *shrugs* I don’t know. I don’t know if it’s romantic or not, but in building her a house, I’m trying to build her the life she deserves surrounded by a family that loves her.

(Samantha’s response…. Again, it’s hard to pick just one thing! Lucien came of age in the nineteenth century, when things like courting and wooing happened… Single most romanatic thing? Jeez. It’s a tie between surprising me with a road trip to see my favorite Broadway show and surprising me with the plans to our new house.)

SKY: That sounds incredibly romantic! Samantha has a feature that draws your eye every time. Care to share? She can’t stare at you enough… but where is she staring? Now’s the time to gloat about your thick head of hair. *Sky sniggers* Truth! Do you think it’s your eyes? Chest? Etc.

LUCIEN: I love her face. She’s very expressive and her eyes…well, they’re heaven in a stare. I could look at her face and see the love there, even if I couldn’t feel it. Sky, you know men don’t talk about this stuff, right? She says she loves my eyes. *runs hand through hair* And my hair.

(Samantha’s response… His eyes. Whether gray or red, they enthrall me, even when he’s not trying. *laughs* Lucien definitely has some preferences, but I’m not telling you what they are...)

SKY: *Chuckles* I love to try to pull the ‘mushy’ stuff from men, Lucien! How do you think Samantha would answer the following… Our favorite thing to do together is…?

LUCIEN: *relaxes* That one’s easy. Be together with Ollie, as a family.

(Samantha’s response… I think Lucien would say, and I would agree, that our favorite thing is being together as a family, the three of us...)

SKY: You and Samantha don’t see eye to eye on what issue?

LUCIEN: Whether she should become like me, but I’d rather not say anymore about that. I don’t want her to feel pressured about it.

(Samantha’s response… *deep breath* On whether I should become like him….)

SKY: She said one thing to you that you’ll never forget. What was it?

LUCIEN: She said yes.

(Samantha’s response… He told me my loved helped him forgive himself, that it gave him a sense of absolution he’d searched for his whole life. To know you’ve impacted another person that way, well… *clears throat* I just love him….)

SKY: You two sound like a perfect match! It was really great having you and Samantha over to visit. You’re welcome back to A Writer’s Mind anytime!

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Laura Kaye's WebsiteBlog ~ Twitter: @laurakayeauthor

Contact Laura at laurakayeauthor@gmail.com

Don’t forget that there’s a CONTEST running!!!

FOREVER FREED GIVEAWAY: At the end of my four-day appearance, I will give away one pdf format ebook and one signed print book of Forever Freed. To enter to win, you must do all of the following:

1) comment on one or more of my posts at A Writer’s Mind (1 comment per day counts for an entry, but you can comment on the different days for a total of 4 entries)

2) follow me on twitter (@laurakayeauthor)

3) follow my BLOG. Leave your twitter name in your comments so I can verify following.

Current twitter AND blog followers are eligible to win and can enter by leaving your twitter name in your comments AND tweeting at least one of my A Writer’s Mind posts (be sure to @ me so I see it!). Winner to be announced on June 7!

Be sure to swing in tomorrow as I welcome back Laura Kaye for A Writer’s Mind's BOOK TRAILER BREATHER! You’re going to love the trailer for FOREVER FREED!

~Sky