New book reveal- WITCH HEARTS by Liz Long

WITCH HEARTS by Liz Long LIVE on Amazon! To my friends and readers: Thanking you is the first thing on my list. Writers do it for the readers and I am so excited to introduce this new story to you. For the fellow authors, the book bloggers, the Twitter friends, and support groups in my writing life, know that we're in this together and I couldn't do it without you. I am so honored you joined me for this fun ride. I am proud to say that my second title WITCH HEARTS is now LIVE on Amazon for paperback ($8.99) and your Kindle ($2.99). Witch Hearts is an adult paranormal thriller meant for those who liked to be a little creeped out and also enjoy a murder mystery. Touted as a "Criminal Minds" meets "Charmed" story, Witch Hearts contains three of Liz's favorite things: Magic, Murder, and Mystery. Below you'll find the cover and blurb, as well as a bit about Liz Long plus a special excerpt not available anywhere else.

 

 

 

Witch Hearts Synopsis: How does a witch stay safe if a killer can get through her protection spells? Witches like Ruby and Courtney can take care of themselves. So when Courtney is murdered, Ruby’s world crashes to a halt. The only thing keeping her grounded is the return of Courtney’s brother, Cooper. He seeks revenge, but Ruby wants to help other witches stay alive. To do that, she’ll have to reunite with her old coven’s High Priest, who also happens to be her cheating ex-boyfriend. If that wasn’t awkward enough, when the killer gets too close, Cooper temporarily moves into Ruby’s place while a police officer tails her every move. Cooper’s presence distracts Ruby as they fight their desire against their need to stay safe. Then Courtney begins to haunt Ruby’s dreams and secrets are spilled, things from Cooper’s past that could get them both killed. The killer continues to stalk Ruby and the more she discovers, the more she fears she won’t be able to keep her heart in her chest.

Excerpt:
Cooper and Ruby hopped on his bike and drove back to her place. She even managed to peek out from beneath her helmet to see the city whip past her in a blur. When they finally came to a stop, she untangled herself from him - albeit a tad regretful about it - and handed him back the helmet. “Thanks again for everything tonight. I know it wasn’t the most fun you could have, but I want everyone to be safe,” she said. “I understand. I’m glad I went, too. I don’t want anyone else in danger. Plus, you’re good company.” He stood up as he said it, hooking the helmets on his bike. “You don’t have walk me in or anything. I don’t want to keep you any longer than you need.” He snorted. “You’re not keeping me from anything. I want to do it, but especially because I want to make sure you’re safe.” Ruby bit her bottom lip. Her nerves fluttered a bit at the thought of a possible goodnight kiss. She could hardly believe how immature she sounded in her head. It’s your best friend’s brother. This is Cooper we’re talking about, a voice in her head screamed at her. Another voice spoke up. Yeah. It’s Cooper. And your thoughts about him have never been exactly brotherly.  Shaking both voices away, she swiped her key fob by the entrance door and Cooper held it open for her. They took the stairs up to the second floor and walked around the corner to her apartment. Ruby stopped as soon as she saw her door. “Something’s wrong,” she said. “What? How can you tell?” He looked up and down the hallway. “There was a barrier when I left. Remember I checked, put my hand on the door when we left? My spell was in place.” “There was a soft glow on the door,” he said absentmindedly, as though remembering. His eyes narrowed and Ruby could see his veins throb in his neck as his jaw tightened. “Only witches would be able to see it, but it’s not there.” Ruby took a few steps forward, placing her hand on the door, which was now simply cool and wooden. She retrieved her key and turned the lock, but Cooper stopped her. “I’ll go in first.” He swung the door wide open; he held his hands up in case of a fight or a spell, but silence greeted them. Cooper did a quick sweep of the apartment while Ruby waited in the entryway. He returned with Aziza in one arm and a letter in his hand. “This was on your coffee table,” he said grimly. “Aziza was hiding behind the couch. She hissed until she realized it was me.” Ruby took the note from him. As she opened it, Cooper stood beside her to read over her shoulder. “Not all witches are equal. Some are born with extraordinary gifts; anyone can practice, but few are truly powerful. You are one of the lucky ones, Ruby. I apologize about your friend Courtney. She was powerful, but nowhere near your capabilities. I’m afraid that in order for my powers to thrive, yours must come to an end. I’ll be seeing you very soon. -X”

                                                        

                                                              About the Author:
Liz Long is lucky enough to have a dream career in magazine publishing as an editor and writer, yet still have time to create adventures on the side. If you catch her staring off into space or talking to herself, don’t worry – it’s just her imagination at work. Liz graduated from Longwood University with a BA in English, though her professors might be disappointed to hear she reads more fantasy fiction than literary novels. She also loves action and thriller genres. This book probably won’t change your life, but she hopes it steals you away from reality for a while. Her first book, Gifted, A Donovan Circus Novel, is about a murder at a supernatural circus, and is available at Amazon on Kindle and paperback. (To celebrate the release of her new book, Gifted is FREE on Amazon for Kindle from April 30 - May 2, so grab your copy now!) To learn more about Liz, visit her website: http://lizclong.com

New book reveal - NISSA: A CONTEMPORARY FAIRY TALE by Bethany Lopez

Synopsis:
At 900 years old, Nissa is finally ready to follow her mother's path and become the best Fairy Godmother she can. She’s not thrilled when her first assignment turns out to be a teenage human girl with self-esteem issues, but she knows she has to start somewhere. Her assignment has dealt with bullies since her freshman year and they haven’t let up. If Nissa can’t help her regain her self-confidence her future is bleak.

To complicate matters Nissa experiences all the signs that she's met the being fated for her. This impossibility distracts her from her purpose. After all, fairies and humans aren't meant for each other. How can her heart believe otherwise? Can Nissa successfully complete her first assignment as a Fairy Godmother? Will the fates allow Nissa and Levi to be together? And even if they do, will Levi believe Nissa once she reveals the truth?

Excerpt:
          The next thing I knew, there was a flash of movement and a noise that sent fear coursing through my body.

            Barking. Loud, incessant barking.

            I dropped my bag and took off running, adrenaline causing my legs to move as fast as they would go. I briefly noticed the look of confusion on Vicky’s face as I sped past her, hoping I had put a good distance between myself and the beast.

            As my brain began to clear, I registered the laughter coming from behind me. I slowed down and turned, finding Vicky standing a few feet behind me. She was holding the beast and laughing hysterically.

            “Be careful,” I shrieked, my limbs shaking, and my breath coming out in spurts. I felt my heart pounding, and I thought I might pass out. I could only remember being this terrified one other time in my life.

            When my siblings and I were younger, a few hundred years ago, my brother Finnegan talked us all into going on a grand adventure. We left the protected area of the forest and ended up in an unknown section of the woods. There were humans everywhere. They had large vessels, which were filled with strange smells, and they were burning our precious wood.

            I later came to know that this was what the humans called a campground, but at the time, the sights and sounds were terrifying and before we knew what was happening, we heard the loud cry of a large beast that seemed intent on feeding on us. We all scrambled to get away from it, and get back to the protected area where we belonged. My sister, Ella, narrowly escaped its fangs and was saved only by the chain that snapped the threat back into place.

            Dogs are extremely dangerous to fairies.

            The memory flashed through my mind as I stared in horror at the animal in Vicky’s arms.

            “Are you being serious?” Vicky asked. “This is a Chihuahua. You can’t honestly be that scared of this dog.”

 

Where to buy:

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Smashwords

 

Bethany Lopez was born in Detroit, Michigan, and grew up in Michigan and San Antonio, Texas. She went to High School at Dearborn High, in Dearborn, Michigan, which is where she has set her Young Adult series. She is married and has a blended family with five children. She is currently serving in the United States Air Force as a Recruiter in Los Angeles, California. She has always loved to read and write and has seen her dream realized by independently publishing her novels through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Smashwords.

 

                                                        Follow Bethany online:

                                                Twitter     Facebook     Pinterest    

 

 

 

New book reveal - COLOUR WIELDERS by Dawna Raver

 

Synopsis:

Behind the Faerying Mysts, hidden from Mortal eyes, is a land where Gods, creatures of myth and legend dwell. And in the Mortal Realm, their Princess lives.

Quinn Sinclair is clueless to who she is. She thinks she's an ordinary young woman—well, mostly ordinary—living an ordinary life with her less than loving mother in Conifer, Colorado. On the night of her birthday, Quinn finds herself betrayed by a man who 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 finds herself 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 Sinclair 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, or will powers beyond their control destroy them and their world forever?

 

 

Where to buy:

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

 

 

                                                      About the Author:

Dawna Raver is an author of paranormal romance and urban fantasy. Colour Wielders, book one of the Heirs of the Magykal Realm series, 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.

 

                                                    Follow Dawna online:

                                                     Facebook     Twitter     

 

 

 

 

Indie-Licious Interview: Prepare to be dazzled by Dawna Raver's Fantasy World

Dawna Raver is an author of paranormal romance and urban fantasy. Colour Wielders, book one of the Heirs of the Magykal Realm series, 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.

 

Happy release day to you, Dawna, and to the entire cast of Colour Wielders! (Pops champagne cork). I couldn't be happier for you and all the lucky readers who will get to have this book for their collection. Allow me to pour you a glass of Dom Perignon (and myself, of course) to celebrate the occasion.

About Dawna Raver:

1)Dawna, I know you've waited a long time for this publication, and at sometimes, thought it would never happen. (I know the feeling). Why don’t you start by telling us just how EXCITED you really are?!

"Well, too excited! You're enthusiasm has ramped up my excitement greatly. This is crazy. Sometimes I can't believe I wrote a book and it's published. Never in my wildest dreams did I think this would happen. And the path here as been bumpy at times."

2)For most of us, publishing a book is a "dream come true", an achievement we never thought possible. Is it your dream, Dawna? Or is it a goal you can now scratch of your list of many? Maybe both?

"Actually, I never thought of doing the publishing thing. I've only been writing for about five years now. I certainly didn't start writing with this goal in mind. I was recovering from surgery and was bored. I'd never written for fun before, but with nothing else to do, I sat down and started writing about an old memory. Eventually, the memory morphed into a story, and that story evolved into Colour Wielders."

3)Did your publishing journey take you on a long, difficult road? Or did it happen over night for you?

"Once I saw that Colour Wielders might be a story others would enjoy, I thought about self-publishing. But my critique partner and friend, Krystal Wade, encouraged me to submit to her publisher, and now mine, Curiosity Quills Press. It's been about nine or ten months to bring Colour Wielders to market."

4)Where is your favorite place to write? Home office, comfy chair in front on the TV, dark, dusty, attic?

"I have an office with a lovely leather chain and a new desk. I really should be sitting in there everyday. But, we just bought a new leather couch and it's very comfy. I'll admit, unless I'm on deadline, I usually work from the couch. So, I guess that makes me a couch potato writer. Sigh."

5)Besides reading / writing, what is your favorite pastime?

"Watching football. Love, love, love football. In fact, I'm counting down the time until preseason starts. 107 days and 8 hours, in case your interested. 139 days and 8 hours until season. You might not believe this, but right now, I have the NFL channel on in the background. Yes, I am that obsessed. Shout out to my pitiful Miami Dolphins and amazing Denver Broncos."

 
The unimportant, important stuff. What makes Dawna Raver . . . Dawna Raver?
Favorites:

1)Food – ice cream – peanut butter and chocolate to be exact.
2)Color – red and black
3)Song / Music – Alternative rock. Foo Fighters, Incubus, Linkin Park...
4)Movie – All the Harry Potters.
5)Book – Harry Potter series. Sookie Stackhouse series (though I have a bad feeling Charlaine Harris is going to break my heart. Eric and Sookie belong together, damn it!) Jim Butcher's Dresden Files.
My newest favorite is Darynda Jones' Charley Davidson series.

About Colour Wielders:

1)My favourite question maybe becoming clichéd, but like I said; it's my favorite question to ask so: If you should be so lucky, who would you choose to play your main characters in the movie?

"*Big grin* Arik would be the hot Alexander Skarsgard. (If you're reading this Alex, call me, k?)
Quinn I don't have an actress for. I have a picture of what I think she looks like, but not a particular actress."

2)How did Colour Wielders blossom into the magical fantasy it is? What was the first tidbit of info that popped into your head for this story? Was it a word, song, dream?

"As I said, the whole think started from me recalling a memory. Factoid: Arik was originally the antihero, and Devin was the hero. But, in writing Arik, I feel in love with him. I wanted to give him a chance to be the kind of character that might have the opportunity for redemption. Whether he gets there or not, you'll have to read the series to find out."

3)Is Quinn Sinclair anything like Dawna Raver?

"Ha! I think there's a lot of Quinn in me. Which is probably why I can't assign an actress to her."

4)The cover is one of my all time favorites. Did you have other cover ideas you scrapped for this one?

"When I first thought I'd self-publish, I toyed with making the cover myself. One of the reasons I signed with Curiosity Quills was because of their amazing covers. Actually, Lisa, your cover for The Gathering Darkness sent me in the direction of the amazing Ricky Gunawan. I loved the feel of your cover so much, I just had to have Ricky. I told Curiosity Quills and they agreed.
Ricky was amazing to work for. I sent him pics of what I wanted. Then he and I worked together on the final concept. I can't imagine ever using anyone else, to be honest. Here's his website: http://ricky-gunawan.daportfolio.com."

5)What piece of advice would you give aspiring authors?

"Write, write, write, and write more. Read, read, read, and read more. Don't wait until your book is about to be published to start promoting yourself. Do it as soon as you think you want to embark on this crazy endeavor."

 "Whenever I see this cover my jaw drops at its beauty" -Lisa Collicutt

Behind the Faerying Mysts, hidden from Mortal eyes, is a land where Gods, creatures of myth and legend dwell. And in the Mortal Realm, their Princess lives.

Quinn Sinclair is clueless to who she is. She thinks she's an ordinary young woman—well, mostly ordinary—living an ordinary life with her less than loving mother in Conifer, Colorado. On the night of her birthday, Quinn finds herself betrayed by a man who 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 finds herself 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 Sinclair 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, or will powers beyond their control destroy them and their world forever?

Thanks so much for hanging with me, Dawna. I'm a tad excited to get my hands on this book. I can just feel that velvety cover now :)

Colour Wielders is available at:

Amazon ~ Barnes and Noble ~ Kobo

Where to connect with Dawna Raver:    

https://www.facebook.com/DawnaRaver

https://twitter.com/DawnaRaver

https://dawnaraver.com

Support indie authors by reviewing this book at:

http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17261634-colour-wielders

Dawna is having a giveaway to celebrate her book release with you!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

New book reveal - CRIMSON by V.J. Chambers

Synopsis:



Like your torrid professor-student affairs with a side of gothic magic?

Professor Carter Alexander may have a sharp tongue and a reputation for reducing freshman acting students to tears, but he’s gorgeous. He’s the man of Teagan Moss’ dreams. Literally. She’s been having dreams about him since she was thirteen years old. Yes, those kind of dreams.

Teagan’s been sheltered, hidden away by her crazy aunts and her even crazier mother, all of whom have cautioned her that the man in her dreams wants to hurt her. But Teagan doesn’t believe in their stories of power and evil.

All she wants is to be normal for once.

One night, she’s compelled out of her bed by a force she doesn’t understand. She finds herself across town on Professor Alexander’s porch.

And he’s kissing her.

New Adult Paranormal Romance: Intended for mature audiences due to explicit sexual content.

Read an excerpt from Crimson here!

Where to buy:
Amazon
Smashwords
Barnes and Noble

Teaser Sign Ups 4/21

We here at Indie-Licious love blog hops. We love them so much that we host one once a week on Sundays.

Sign ups are from 12:00 am Tuesdays through 11:59 pm Saturday, EST. Just enter your info into the Linky List. We only ask that you post teasers no longer than a paragraph. Anything longer than this will make it difficult for everyone to read and comment on your entry.

Have fun!

Tools & Tips ~ Forget the Filters ~ by Christie Rich

morgueFile free photos http://mrg.bz/S5hJS7

Forget the Filters
by Christie Rich

When I read, I want to experience the book, sink right in and become the main character, or at least tag along for a piggy back ride.  As a writer, my greatest wish is that my readers will have the same experience.  The trouble is it’s not that easy to get readers to see through the character’s eyes unless you learn a few things.  I’m still on the journey of figuring out all the secrets of creating engaging fiction, but one thing I stumbled upon last year threw me.

I had no idea very common words can distance a reader from the experience of the story I’m telling, but once I learned them it totally makes sense why the words put a barrier between the action and the reader.  This information has helped me understand why sometimes, it is impossible for me to connect with a story, even if it is an interesting idea and the characters are enjoyable.

What words, you ask?

Janet Burroway, author of Writing Fiction:  A Guide to Narrative Craft, coined the phrase that has caught on in the editing arena lately—filter words.  I haven’t read Janet’s book, but it is on my to-read.

My introduction to filter words came from a writer friend’s blog:  http://blackbirdinmywindow.blogspot.com/2012/09/wednesdays-writer-avoid-filter-words.html

The post is short and to the point, and really, I could stop here and just tell you to go read her blog, but I have a few things to add.  First, here are the pesky critters that can blur the image you try to create for the reader.

• to see
• to hear
• to think
• to touch
• to wonder
• to realize
• to watch
• to look
• to seem
• to feel
• could
• can
• to decide
• to notice
• to sound (or sound like)

Look familiar?  Some of these words are easier to avoid than others, or to remove from your first draft.  Others, not so much, at least for me.  Because I’m aware of these words now, I don’t use them as often, but they are so easy to use.  They wiggle their way into what should be intense, action driven scenes.  The result:  a watered down version of what would otherwise be riveting fiction, right?  Right!

I can hear you all screaming SHOW, don’t TELL! ;)

Let’s take a gander at a few examples.  This is a made up scene, not from any WIP.

Kari could feel the heat of the sun on her skin, the breeze barely denting the effects of the tyrannical orb.  She’d been out too long, and if she didn’t find shelter soon, she’d be just another sojourner to never return home.  Everywhere she looked, she saw rolling hills of sand.  No sound could be heard other than the occasional flurry of wind.  It seemed the whole world had disappeared with the burgeoning morning.

She wondered if she should turn around.  If she hurried, she might be able to find her way back to the others.  She thought she heard something in the distance, which brought hope to her wilting heart.  She increased her step, stumbling up the dune toward the sound.  When she crested the hill she realized her mistake, falling to her knees.  She noticed the flurry of action before her mind comprehended what she saw.

She watched helplessly as the raiders ravaged the small village, tears leaking from her eyes for the children that cried over dead parents.  She wondered what she could do for the people.  If she went down there, she’d just be taken too, or worse.

“Over there,” shouted a man.

Kari could feel her heartbeat speed up as she watched a man look at her then sprint toward her.  Her feet took off, finding some inner strength she didn’t know she had.  If she was taken, her village would be next.  She recalled that the raiders were known for mind penetration.  She could see her mother’s kind eyes weeping tears of devastation, all because she hadn’t listened.  Her disobedience had not only made her life forfeit, she had placed every single person she loved in danger…to see a boy that didn’t love her, a boy that had already broken her heart.

Now, without the filter words.

The heat of the sun baked Kari’s tender flesh, the breeze barely denting the effects of the tyrannical orb.  She’d been out too long, and if she didn’t find shelter soon, she’d be just another sojourner to never return home.  Everywhere she turned, rolling hills of sand spread out before her.  Nothing but an occasional flurry of wind disturbed the haunting silence.  The whole world had disappeared with the burgeoning morning.

She should turn around.  If she hurried, she might be able to find her way back to the others.

What was that?  She stilled, listening more intently and it came again.  Voices.  Had she made it to the village after all?  Hope filled her wilting heart with a new purpose.  She raced ahead, even though her weary muscles screamed at her to stop.  When she crested the hill a flurry of motion bombarded her mind.

Helplessly, she stared as the raiders ravaged the small village, tears leaking down her cheeks for the crying children trying to wake their slain parents.  What could she do to help them?  If she went down there, she’d just be taken too, or worse.

“Over there,” shouted a man.

Kari’s heartbeat slammed against her chest as another man sprinted toward her.  Her feet took off, finding some inner strength she didn’t know she had.  If she was taken, her village would be next.  What had she done?  Her mother’s kind eyes flashed in her mind, bright with the tears of devastation, all because she hadn’t listened.  Her disobedience had not only forfeited her life, she had placed every single person she loved in danger…to see a boy that didn’t love her, a boy that had already broken her heart.

So which scene allowed you to feel the character’s emotions?  Which scene was easier to connect with? 

morgueFile free photos http://mrg.bz/6ZRjxe

Did you catch all the filters in the first scene?  How many were there?

Okay, so I’d like to do something fun, if you all are game.  Search your current work in progress.  Post a scene of yours with filter words then without.  The more examples posted, the easier this concept will be for all of us to remember.  If you’d like me to remove your filter words, that’s great, just say so in your post.

The more you practice, the easier it will be for you to spot the culprits that make it difficult for your readers to connect with your stories.

The only way this will be any fun is if we have lots of comments and posts, so go for it.  The only thing you have to lose is a barrier you don’t need.  Happy writing everyone!

Christie Rich

Biography

I grew up daydreaming about fairytales, and my love for discovering new worlds has never died. I am not one of those writers who always knew I would write. I thought that was what other people did until one day a few years ago, I took a challenge from a friend and typed my first words. My journey has been wonderful, and I cannot imagine a day where I would ever give up writing. My love for reading is what fueled my imagination in the first place and still does. When I am not writing or reading, I am enjoying family time with my husband and two children. I also dabble in painting but writing has taken over my creative time right now.  I hope to get back to it at some point in my life, but I'm not sure when I'll have time for it.  My family and I live in a quiet community  in Northern Utah, and I am so thankful for the rich life I have been blessed with.

Where you can find Christie:

Website  l  Blog  l  Goodreads  l  Pinterest  l  Twitter  l  Facebook

Teaser Sign Up 4/14

Hey, look! I'm not three days late this week. This is what vacation does to me. I check out and don't even give my responsibilities (other than my family life) a second thought. 

So, make sure you sign up for this Sunday's blog hop. Remember: Keep it short so everyone has time to read and comment on all the posts.

Tell your friends!

~Krystal

Tools & Tips ~ Building Your Platform

Build Your Platform

By Laura Howard

 

Building your Following Slow and Steady

You can't visit many writing blogs these days without running into the term “Platform”.

Build your platform before you publish.

The bigger your platform, the more people will know about your book.

First, let me say that this isn't necessarily untrue. I just think that maybe the perception of what a platform is has become a bit fuzzy.

When I imagine an “author's platform”, I think of the platform at a train station. On the platform is a person waving their book around at a crowd, shouting at them to buy their book.

Not an ideal situation, if you ask me.

So, instead of that image, I'd like to replace it with a new scenario. I recently read the free ebook The Secrets of Ebook Publishing Success offered from Mark Coker of Smashwords. Whether you publish through Smashwords or not, there are some great tips for self-publishing authors in there.

In it he referred to a platform as a fire. We all start with nothing. We add a small amount of kindling to get it started. We only add small logs in order to get the fire good and hot, because if we add a big one too early we will suffocate our flame. Once we reach a critical mass of heat, we can add larger logs, and then those logs start throwing off ever-greater heat, allowing the fire to burn hotter and brighter.

I love this visual. I love the idea of starting off small and building slowly. Each little piece of kindling represents a real connection- a real relationship.

Joanna Penn from The Creative Penn spends a lot of time talking about Relationship Marketing: Getting people to like, know, and trust you. I think this is made possible through making meaningful connections rather than gaining, say 20,000 Twitter followers who won't even remember your name.

Imagine how hot and bright your fire will burn when the small community you cultivate starts to grow enthusiastic about your book(s). Think about the many dozens of people each of your raving fans will want to share your work with. That's when the real magic starts to happen. But, it takes time to get there.

We all like to be part of something bigger than ourselves. When you have a group of people who are invested in what you're doing, you have also extended your success to become their success. They'll naturally want to spread the word about something that they have become such a big part of.

Once you've written the best book possible and you have a loyal troop of fans, there is only so far any amount of marketing will go. You must trust in good, old-fashioned word of mouth to fan the flames of your success.

So, as the tortoise showed the hare, slow and steady wins the race.

I'd love to know how you connect with readers, let me know in the comments!

IndieLicious Interview: A New Adult Novel from Devyn Dawson

I’ll tell you a little about myself (yawn).  I’m Devyn, and I write about the characters that live in my head.  My passion is to read paranormal books, and to check out new authors.  My preference is young adult books, on occasion I’ll read a grown-up book.  In 2010 I completed my first full length novel.  I self published it in June of 2011 and talk about not knowing what I was doing…I made all kinds of mistakes.  In 2012 my Light Tamer series was published and has been on several Amazon Best Seller lists since July 2012.  I could bore you to tears with my life working for a Fortune 500 company, or having a famous comedian father, not today.  I’m a mother of two adult children, and as of Dec 29, 2012 I can add grandma to my titles.  I write under a pseudonym, and at first it was hard to remember I’m Devyn, it is getting easier to remember. 

Thank you to everyone who has supported my books.  As many know, I write for young adults, Sapphire is my first New Adult book.  The characters are two adult characters in my book Malevolence.  I received many requests to write their back story.  In the beginning, I wasn’t certain about writing a racy book.  It has been fun to write, and I’m excited to hear what the public thinks.

Devyn, welcome to IndieLicious and congrats on the release of your new book, Sapphire, A Werewolf Love Story. Sapphire is part of your Legacy Series and your first NA book, rated 17+. I've yet to be brave enough to dabble in NA, go Devyn! As an author of two successful series we are so excited that you have agreed to share some of your thoughts on writing.

As an author can you offer any advice for beginners?

Build your platform first.   Read books like the one you’re writing, figure out what you like.  Read reviews of books, get an idea what didn’t work in your favorite author’s books.  Figure out what did work for them.  Simple…I like simple.

Do you become a character while writing?

No, I don’t become a character.  Some characters have my personality traits though.

Favorite place to write.

My favorite place to write is in my family room that looks out over the woods in my backyard.

How did you come up with cover idea?

Covers are usually something in the book.  I like a mysterious quality to my covers.

Your covers are very beautiful and mysterious. I love the new cover for Sapphire. How about an excerpt from the book? Will you give us a little taste?

Excerpt -  Sapphire is rated 18+ for explicit language and sexual situations - this preview is PG-13

PARKER

Walking into her house, I turn and notice a cat lurking around the corner. His tail twitches and ears fold back as it hunkers down behind a bush. I grin to myself every time I see a cat’s reaction to me. I take a deep breath, memorizing the surroundings like a mental photograph through smell.

Her house smells like pine cleaner and vanilla. Her essence is everywhere, enveloping me in a big Sapphire bath of pheromones. Next, there’s her family, they are similar but different. Ruby smells like honey and eucalyptus, which is everywhere. If it were humanly possible, I’d imagine she’s rubbed her hands on every single surface of the house. Even if she has touched everywhere, I’ll always be able to distinguish Sapphire’s scent. Her brother Stone smells of the outdoors mixed with something spicy.

I’m keenly aware of every move she makes, from the way she reaches for the glasses to the way she rubs her tongue across her teeth. My body is screaming to touch her…enjoy her…merge with her. The General is going to kill me when I tell him she’s human. It is frowned upon to mingle with humans in the ‘biblical’ way if our wolf is calling the shots. My wolf is fighting with me to accept the fact the General doesn’t need to know right now. Sure, we can have a good time, and even date humans, as long as we remember our duty is to our pack.

Things would be simpler if we weren’t about to bring the Great Wolf to the farm. I’m not thinking about that right now. No, tonight I’m Parker...a man and my werewolf family will have to live without me for the night.

Well, Devyn, I am definitely sold on this book and will download it ASAP! Thank you so much for stopping by IndieLicious and best of luck with your writing!

Sapphire didn't want to go out, but after some coaxing from her sister, she agreed to go. It was that night, and the days to come that would awaken her sexual desire and her heart.

Parker had never had a girl hold his gaze... most everyone wouldn't dare challenge him that way. She wasn't one of his kind though, she was human and against the rules. He knew her spirit was calling out to his wolf. His wolf was more than ready to answer that call. She was the one... he would kill for her, he would die for her, but would he disobey his alpha for her? 

THIS BOOK IS RATED OVER 18 - EXPLICIT LANGUAGE & SEXUAL SITUATIONS

You can purchase Sapphire at:

Amazon

Barnes and Nobles

Smashwords

You can learn more about Devyn and her books at:

Her blog

Facebook

Twitter

Amazon's Author Page

Barnes and Nobles Author Page

New book reveal - AGELESS SEA by M.R. Polish

Synopsis:

Life. Love. Death.

Banished for a crime she didn’t commit, Karis must learn to live her life alone – and in a world that’s not her own. Cursed on an island of loneliness, forced to endure nearly a century without a friend, the woman once destined to be Queen must find a way to return to her world and save her people from an evil influence.

After many years, one man is strong enough to survive the cursed barrier that keeps her from leaving the island. She needs him so she can return to her world; he needs her to put together the pieces of his broken memory. Side by side, Brady and Karis feel their loneliness slip away.

Every day their love grows stronger, but will their bond survive the battle between worlds? In Book One of The Ageless Series, M.R. Polish takes readers into a world where myths are real, deception lurks in the shadows, and destiny brings two lost souls together to fight as one.


Excerpt:

“How can you expect to guard yourself against an attack if you don’t even try?” Karis slumped down to the floor of the training room.

“If you would quit teasing me, I might think clearer.” Brady flashed his white teeth at her in a playful smile.

She picked up her water and chucked it at him. He ducked, missing the water completely. “I do not tease!”

He raised a brow. “Oh really? For the last couple weeks on the island and now here in this underwater world, you’ve done nothing but tease me.”

She stood up to face him straight on. “I have not.”

“What about the other day when you kissed me? What was that?”

She blushed. “I didn’t kiss you, it was the other way around.”

“I suppose you think it was me who’s been wearing those short little things to bed too?”

She clenched her fists. “Brady, you are exasperating. I don’t ask you to come to bed with me.”

He moved in closer to her, clearly enjoying her anger as he baited her. “You don’t kick me out either.” He was close enough for his breath to tickle the side of her face. She could smell the mint from the leaves he chewed on earlier.

            He raised his hand to stroke her cheek. “Will you kick me out tonight?”

Where to buy:
Amazon
Barnes and Noble

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Indie-Licious Teaser Sign-Up 4/7

Oh my goodness. I'm so sorry. Can you guys tell I've been on vacation this week? I totally forgot to schedule the sign up! Anyway, here it is. 

Have fun!

Tools & Tips ~ It Takes a Village

It Takes a Village

by Elizabeth Sharp


That old adage It takes a village never applied more than it does in self-publishing. Many people think of writers as solitary beings locked alone in an office huddles over a keyboard. The truth is that while there is definitely some of that, there’s a lot more to it. Thanks to the rise of the ereader, authors no longer have to throw ourselves at the mercy of the big publishing houses and all their teams of editors, cover artists, and the like. So many people are involved in producing one book. Why should self-publishing be any different?

So who all does an author need to get their book publish worthy? Editors, cover artist, yes, but also beta readers, formatters, book bloggers… The list goes on. And that’s not including all the not necessary but recommended stuff like trailers and swag. So let’s break it down and look at what you need to populate your publishing village with.


Editor

The first and most obvious people you are going to need is an editor. Or rather two of them. The first editor will go through and note anything wrong with your book, whether it’s grammar or story related. The second editor will take a look at the whole story and correct grammar and punctuation, tightening everything up.


Proofreader

The proofreader is the last stop for spelling and punctuation. They’re going to catch all the misplaced commas and forgotten apostrophes. This can be the same person as one of your previous edits, though I personally find =I trust a second set of eyes better.


Cover Artist

I’ve already covered this pretty well in another article, so I’ll keep this brief. Your cover is a marketing tool. It doesn’t need to tell any part of the story, but should be attractive and compelling, making sales for you the moment folks see it. So pick a cover artist who blows you away, and trust the talent that won you over.


Beta readers

Before a product goes to market, every major company has a beta run. Why should your book be any different. You’re not looking for your biggest fan, your proud mama or your best friend. You need someone who isn’t afraid to tell you the truth, has a critical eye and grammar skills you trust. For me, the first thing my mom told me after reading my first book was all my mistakes. I now harness her skills for good and she is one of my beta readers.


Formatter

One of the toughest parts about epublishing is that you can’t just type it in Word and send it off. Preparing a book is an involved process that can get kind of involved. Yes, there are programs to help you and guides to, well, guide you. And you most definitely can do this yourself. But I save myself the hassle and have someone else do it.


Book Bloggers

Amanda Hocking, love her or think she’s a sellout, showed the world indies can be successful and make a lot of money. And the way she did that was through relationships with book bloggers. I can never stress enough how important they are for getting your work out there. I’ve made some great friends through my connections with bloggers, and met some great people. I have nothing but admiration for the hard work and skill that goes into creating their blogs, and they do it almost daily. So start forming relationships early and maintain them.


The most important thing I can tell you about the self-publishing community is to be human. We are a large yet tight-knit community. And the toes you step on today might belong to someone you might to to ask for a favor tomorrow. So be kind, check your attitude at the door and remember to always be gracious because no one owes you. And without your village, I guarantee you’re not going to find success in the publishing world.

New book reveal - THE LOVE GAME by Emma Hart

Synopsis:

His challenge? Make her fall in love with him.

Her challenge? Play the player.

Until life changes the rules of the game.

Maddie Stevens hated Braden Carter on sight. Arrogant, egotistical, and the playboy of the University of California, Berkeley, he's everything her brother Pearce has taught her to despise. So why, when the girls challenge her to play the player, doesn't she say no? She doesn't know either.

Braden wanted fiery little Maddie the second he laid eyes on her - and he'd do anything to have her, hence why he's agreed to make her fall in love with him. After all, it's the only way he'll get what he wants. Sex.

But, as Braden discovers, there's more to the girl from Brooklyn than he ever imagined - and he can't help but care about the broken girl behind those pretty green eyes.

Maddie finds Braden isn't just a walking erection - he actually has feelings. He can be sweet, funny and his good looks don't exactly hurt. That means trouble - but when her brother Pearce turns up in Berkeley begging for her help, she realises Braden and Pearce aren't so alike anymore.

And maybe, just maybe, they're exactly what each other needs.

Where to buy:

Amazon US 

Amazon UK 

Kobo 

Smashwords 

By day, Emma Hart dons a cape and calls herself Super Mum to a terrible two year old and cooking baby, due September 2013. By night, she drops the cape, pours a glass of wine – well, tropical juice now – and writes books. She likes to write about magic, kisses and whatever else she can fit into the story. Sarcastic, witty characters are a must. As are hot guys. She's working on the companion novel to her latest release and NA debut, Never Forget (Memories #1), and The Love Game (The Game, #1) will release on March 29th. She likes to be busy - unless busy involves doing the dishes. Ironically, that's where most of her ideas come from. Her debut YA series, The Mauve Legacy, is an Apple iBooks Bestseller - and this makes Emma excited.

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