Hot Blogging with Chuck

Welcome to my Blog!!! Chuck was born feral and homeless, but lucky for him, this belly boy, this rascal cat was rescued and traveled the world with me for years. Yeah, he was snarky and he was mostly on the lookout for good food and beautiful girl cats, but I loved him all the same. Now we pass the torch to Theo, an equally rascally feline explorer who will carry on Chuck's legacy. Join me as I continue to visit exotic locales with Theo and do the things that no one dares.

The Inspiration Behind the Blog

I was born to be a writer. When I published my first novel Wild Point Island, my orange and white rescued feral tabby Chuck decided he wanted to travel and see the island for himself. Chuck's desire to travel inspired me to begin the blog and take Chuck with me whenever I traveled, which I do frequently. This was not an easy task. First, I had to deflate the poor kid of all air, stuff him in my carry-on bag, remember to bring my portable pump, and when I arrive, I pump him back up. Ouch. He got used to it and always was ready to pull out his passport and go. Now it's Theo's turn. Smart. Curious. And, yes, another rascal.

Showing posts with label Blogger Book Fair. Show all posts

Sunday, June 9, 2013

BLOGGER BOOK FAIR - JULY 2013

Check in to the Blogger Book Fair,
and book your trip to far away places!

July 22-26, 2013

Authors and Book Bloggers,

Sign ups for the July 2013 Blogger Book Fair will close on June 15 at midnight central time, so get your registrations in to participate!

As of 5/31/2013, we have:

Authors: 89
Books: 233
Bloggers: 14

If you haven't yet registered, you can find all of the information on the Blogger Book Fair page.

Check out the Code of Conduct
Fill out either the Author Sign Up form or the Blogger Sign Up form (Deadline June 15)
Kayla will match everyone with hosts and send out this information to you after sign-ups close
Check out the events--all authors are eligible to participate in the events, and if you have an event you'd like to host, just fill out the simple Event Sign Up Form--all of this information can be found on the Events! page (Deadline July 8).
If you're interested in hosting a giveaway to drive traffic to your site, sign up via the Giveaway Sign Up form (Deadline July 15).
And if your book will be FREE or $0.99 for the duration of the Fair, you can sign up on the Free and $.99 Book Sign Up Forms (Deadline July 15).

Events:

as of 5/31/2013

Art Fiction Gala hosted by Lucie Smoker

Does your fiction promote the visual arts--through featuring an artist, painting, sculpture, performance art, etc? Then, consider entering Lucie's Art Fiction Gala.
The Art Fiction Gala is a virtual celebration of fiction that highlights the visual arts. Dress up in your finest, pick up some friends--a bottle of wine--and sample mind-blowing fiction that crosses the line between literary and visual art. Plus a gallery of art featuring reading.
More information & entry instructions

Three Wishes hosted by Kirstin Pulioff

Introduce your characters to the world.
Kirstin Pulioff invites you to ask your main character, "If you found a magic genie lamp, what would be your three choices?"
More information & entry instructions

Flash Fiction Challenge II hosted by Thomas Winship

Get ready to exercise your flash fiction muscles.
For the Flash Fiction Challenge II, Thomas Winship will provide an opening line.
From there, entrants will craft a flash fiction piece of approx 500 words. Entries will be displayed on Thomas' blog Vaempires during the BBF, spread out evenly across the five days, in order of receipt.
More information & entry instructions

Snapshot Synopsis Contest hosted by Fel at The Peasants Revolt

Challenge: chisel your synopsis down to 50 words or less.
Voting will be open throughout the fair for visitors to vote on their favorite Snapshot Synopsis.
More information & entry instructions

Reader's Choice Awards hosted by Sherri at Shut Up & Read

All books registered for the Blogger Book Fair are automatically entered into the running for the Reader's Choice Awards. Voting will be open from July 22 to July 25.
More information

Indie Soap Box Files hosted by Shah Wharton

Take a turn on the Soap Box.
Shah invites speculative fiction writers to write a guest post about being an indie (or hybrid) writer.
More information & entry instructions
Restrictions: Speculative fiction writers only

Monster Menagerie hosted by Noree at Trip the Eclipse

What's your favorite monster or supernatural creature?
Feature your creature in a flash fiction piece (500-800) words to be featured on Trip the Eclipse. Visitors will vote on their favorite piece.
More information & entry instructions

Ways to Help:

Donate to the Blogger Book Fair via the BBF Donation Fund. To help get the word out about BBF, we would like to place ads on Facebook, Goodreads and other places, but to do, so we need a little help. We'd also like to have some BBF sponsored giveaways, so money donated would also go toward prizes. NO MONEY WILL BE KEPT BY ANY ORGANIZER OR PARTICIPANT.

Spread the word! Share the Fair on your social media accounts and show off the Blogger Book Fair logo in your blog's sidebar.

Join us on:

Thursday, February 7, 2013

Blogger Book Fair 2013 February 7 DAY 1

BLOGGER BOOK FAIR 2013

WELCOME

BLOGGER BOOK FAIR -
THE WORLD FOR A SHILLING

WHEN: FEBRUARY 7-10, 2013
WHERE: www.bloggerbookfair.blogspot.com
WHAT IS IT: This is the second bi-annual Blogger Book Fair, featuring over 60 authors and bloggers and 170 books of all genres.
There will be give-aways, free promos, and great deals on some fantastic books.
COST: Absolutely free to log on and browse.
PLUS: CONTEST ALERT!!!

FOLLOW ON FACEBOOK:
www.facebook.com/bloggerbookfair

This year our theme is The World for a Shilling, based on the cost of the entrance fee back in 1851 for the Great Exhibition held in Hyde Park, England.

The Great Exhibition was organized by Queen Victoria's husband, Prince Albert and attended by notable writers of the day including Charlotte Bronte (Wuthering Heights), Charles Dickens (A Tale of Two Cities, A Christmas Carol, David Copperfield, Great Expectations, Oliver Twist), Lewis Carroll (Alice in Wonderland), George Eliot (Silas Marner, Middlemarch), Alfred Lord Tennyson (Ulysses, Lady of Shalott).

It was meant to be a platform where the countries of the world could display their achievements.

A special building called the Crystal Palace was built to house them.

Six million people or roughly one third of the population of Great Britain visited the exhibition.

In keeping with the theme of the Great Exhibition of 1851, I’d like to announce a CONTEST and then introduce some fabulous authors and their work.

First, the CONTEST:

Read the blurb of Wild Point Island and leave a one sentence comment with your email. During each of the four days of the Blogger Book Fair, one reader will win a free Kindle e book of my newest paranormal romance. At the end of Day Four, I will pick again from all the readers who have participated. The prize: $25.00 Amazon gift certificate.

And, now the first author:

Shannon McRoberts

The Daughter of Ares: The Complete Trilogy

Blurb:

Take what you know about mythology and throw it out the window....

Athine has long been told she was the chosen one. Only problem is she doesn't want to be chosen for anything; she wants her own adventures. She gets her chance when she learns that her new powers allow her to kill other immortals.

Follow Athine from the beginning as she learns about her heritage and being an immortal born. See how she interacts with some notable immortals such as Zeus, Hera, Odin, and Morrigan. Learn about the origins of the vampire and what happened to the dragons!

What reviewers are saying:

"McRoberts does an admirable job of building upon the classical legends we're already familiar with, adding additional branches of goddesses and demigoddesses to Zeus' rather convoluted family tree. Rather than try to replant the stories we already know, she uses them to establish roots for her tale, telling new stories that have either grown from or developed alongside those classic branches."

"This author has offered her readers a unique perspective of going through the story in each character's POV and I believe it worked very well. Books two and three go on to tell the adventures of Athine and her role as protector of N'Loron with plenty of action."

Here is her buy link for The Daughter of Ares: The Complete Trilogy:

http://www.amazon.com/The-Daughter-Ares-Chronicles-ebook/dp/B008HJO5X4

And now the second author:

Jami Gray:

Great Book Find: Shadow’s Edge, the debut Urban Fantasy novel by Jami Gray

Hey beautiful people! I found another great book for you to check out. Fans of edgy heroines, pulse pounding action and twisty plots should really enjoy this one. It looks like Shadow’s Edge should interest anyone who also likes Magic Bites from Ilona Andrews’s Kate Daniels world and Moon Called from Patricia Briggs’s Mercy Thompson series.

Amazon Rating:

“Loved this book. I was looking for something dark and broody to read, but without a heroine who was weak and needed a man to protect her/help her breathe. Shadow's Edge perfectly fit the bill!”—MeNMine

“I crave books with strong, confident females who aren't afraid to kick a little butt. This book was everything I love about fantasy with the added bonus of having a woman main character who knows how to put a man in her place.”—Crystal

Shadow’s Edge: Book 1 of the Kyn Kronicles

Everyone fears what hunts in the shadows—especially the monsters…

It takes a monster to hunt one, and for Raine McCord, forged in the maelstrom of magic and science, she’s the one for the job. In a world where the supernatural live in a shadowy existence with the mundane, a series of disappearances and deaths threatens the secrecy of her kind and indicates someone knows the monsters are alive and kicking. Partnering up with the sexy and tantalizing Gavin Durand proves to be a challenge as dangerous as the prey she hunts.

When the trail points back to the foundation which warped Raine’s magic as a child, her torturous past raises its ugly head. Gavin and Raine sift through a maze of lies, murder and betrayal to discover not only each other, but the emerging threat to them and the entire magical community.

Buy Yours Now:

Amazon (US) | ARe | Barnes & Noble | Smashwords | Black Opal Books

Add it on Goodreads

About Jami Gray

Growing up on the Arizona-Mexico border, Jami Gray was adopted at the age of 14 and suddenly became the fifth eldest of 37 children. She graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor’s in Journalism and three minors-History, English, and Theater. Shortly after marrying her techie-geek hubby (who moonlighted as her best friend in high school) she completed a Masters in Organizational Management from University of Phoenix Oregon.

Now, years later, she’s back in the Southwest where she’s outnumbered in her own home by two Star Wars obsessed boys, one Star Wars obsessed husband, and an overly-friendly, 105-pound male lab. Writing is what saves her sanity.

Connect with Jami

Website | Blog

Facebook | Twitter | The 7 Evil Dwarves

Amazon | Goodreads

Readers' Favorite Review

The Blue Medallion by Kate Lutter is book two in The Wild Island Series. Lily Pattenson, a half-human-half revenant, conceals her identity as a descendant of the Lost Colony of Roanoke known to survive as immortals on Wild Point Island. Accused of wrongdoing, she must return to the island to prove her father's innocence and restore her reputation. Aligning with Nicholas Johnson, the island's powerful High Councilor, she can gain access to the time portal in the obelisk to obtain evidence. However, to do so, she must surrender her cherished blue medallion, which traps her on the island indefinitely. Nicholas seeks the medallion to defeat the Council and restore justice after ruling the island for 400 years.

I've been on a Roanoke history kick for about a year and was looking for something that was a little more creative to fill the void. The Blue Medallion by Kate Lutter fits the bill perfectly. It's only based on the Lost Colony but, frankly, this was a “you had me at Roanoke” situation. I love the backstory and the seamless way Lutter transitions new readers in comfortably. Revenants will die off on the island but, having 400 years to perfect a way to bend that, portals, alliances, technology, and centuries of wisdom all commingle nicely. Lily mucked up big time previously but it's hard not to feel sorry for her when she gets blind-sided by a contract that shows how a powerful man's view of a woman's worth hasn't changed much since 1590. Later Lutter provides a twist that changes our perspective somewhat. Between strong character development, plot twists, emotional depth, immersive world-building, and fantasy elements, the exploration of themes such as family and loyalty that transcend fantasy make Lutter's work relatable and a joy to read.

A Look Inside: A Book Review Blog : 5 STARS

The Blue Medallion by Kate Lutter is Book Two in the Wild Island Series and is a spellbinding tale that seamlessly blends elements of adventure, fantasy, and romance to create a mesmerizing narrative. At its heart, the story revolves around Lily Pattenson, a unique character who is half human and half revenant, with a hidden connection to the Lost Colony of Roanoke. Lutter crafts a rich and imaginative world where Roanoke colonists have survived but been transformed into immortal revenants, making for an intriguing premise.

As Lily, who has been living among humans, faces the need to return to her birthplace, Wild Point Island, the story unfolds with layers of suspense and mystery. The corrupt High Council on the island has unfairly accused her father, setting the stage for a gripping and emotionally charged journey of redemption and justice.

The character dynamics in The Blue Medallion add depth and complexity to the narrative. Lily's reluctant alliance with Nicholas Johnson, the enigmatic High Councilor, introduces a compelling blend of attraction and fear. Their interactions are laced with tension, making readers eager to discover what lies ahead.

What truly sets this novel apart is the concept of the blue medallion, a symbol of great importance. The dilemma Lily faces, having to forfeit this treasured possession in exchange for justice, creates a powerful internal conflict that drives the story forward. The stakes are high, and the consequences of her decisions have far-reaching implications.

Kate Lutter's prose is engaging and evocative, painting vivid images of the island and its inhabitants. The pacing is expertly handled, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with every turn of the page.

The Blue Medallion is not just a tale of adventure and fantasy; it's a story of self-discovery, sacrifice, and the enduring power of love. As Lily embarks on her quest, readers are taken on an unforgettable journey filled with twists, revelations, and emotional resonance. This novel is a must-read for fans of fantasy and romance, offering a captivating narrative that will leave a lasting impression. Kate Lutter's storytelling prowess shines brightly in this enthralling tale. 5 STARS

Demetria C. Head

The Blue Medallion Available Now on Amazon

Even though The Blue Medallion is Book Two of the Wild Island Series, it can be read as the sequel to Wild Point Island or as a stand alone novel.

Banished from Wild Point Island as a child, Lily Pattenson--a half human-half revenant-- has managed to hide her true identity as a descendent of the Lost Colony of Roanoke. Thought to have perished, the Roanoke colonists survived but were transformed into revenants—beings who live forever as long as they remain on the island.

Lily, who has lived among humans since she was banished, must return to the dreaded island of her birth. The island’s corrupt High Council has levied unjust accusations against her father. If Lily is to prove her father’s innocence, survive, and redeem her own sullied reputation, she must align herself with Nicholas Johnson, the powerful High Councilor, who attracts, yet frightens her. He can offer her access to the island’s obelisk, a time portal, to gain the proof she needs to save her father. Under one condition. She must forfeit her treasured blue medallion.

Nicholas Johnson has ruled Wild Point Island for 400 years and needs Lily’s medallion to defeat the Council and restore justice. Lily wants to help, but relinquishing her blue medallion is her worst nightmare. It means she will be trapped on the island forever.

The Blue Medallion weaves together adventure, fantasy, and romance as Lily searches for redemption and love. She doesn’t know that the sacrifice she is called to make to fulfill her destiny will change her life forever.

Wild Point Island Available Now on Amazon

“We were drawn to Wild Point Island as if called by sirens, entrapped, and realized too late that there was no escaping our fate.”
Two twin sisters, Ella and Lily Pattenson, banished from their remote island home twenty years before, are lured back to rescue their father who is unjustly imprisoned in the bowels of the earth.

They aren’t ordinary sisters. Half human and half revenant, they possess special skills. They can thought talk and read minds.

The island isn’t your typical island either. It is ruled by a corrupt Island Council. The revenants who live there are immortal beings who can’t leave. They consider the sisters second class citizens since they are half human.

Ella’s only hope is to trust a seductive revenant, Simon Viccars, who seems to have influence with the Council. He is sexy and like no man she’s ever met. But he’s been trapped on the island for 400 years and is willing to do anything for his freedom.

With the forces of the island conspiring against her, and her own sister sabotaging her every move, Ella is left with one choice. She must use her magic, but rescuing her father means risking her heart and her life on love.

BOOK REVIEW: MY GUILTY OBSESSION

Kindelmom of My Guilty Obsession reviewed Wild Point Island on August 3, 2012 and wrote:

"This synopsis of this one completely piqued my interest. It sounded completely unique and one of a kind that I knew I just needed to try it.

"And this was just that. Unique, unusual, and completely different. This one kept me wondering from the very first chapter . . ."

"This was an unusual story that kept me guessing ad I have to love it for that alone because truly, a story that isn't predictable and will keep you on your toes is sometimes few and far between in the novel world . . .

"Overall I would say this was a fun read that will keep you guessing and give you something new and interesting to read in the paranormal genre that hasn't really been done before."

Hot Blogging with Chuck

The Inspiration Behind the Blog

Sunday, June 9, 2013

BLOGGER BOOK FAIR - JULY 2013

Check in to the Blogger Book Fair,
and book your trip to far away places!

July 22-26, 2013

As of 5/31/2013, we have:

Events:

as of 5/31/2013

Art Fiction Gala hosted by Lucie Smoker

Three Wishes hosted by Kirstin Pulioff

Flash Fiction Challenge II hosted by Thomas Winship

Reader's Choice Awards hosted by Sherri at Shut Up & Read

Indie Soap Box Files hosted by Shah Wharton

Monster Menagerie hosted by Noree at Trip the Eclipse

Join us on:

Thursday, February 7, 2013

Blogger Book Fair 2013 February 7 DAY 1

Amazon Rating:

Shadow’s Edge: Book 1 of the Kyn Kronicles

Buy Yours Now:

About Jami Gray

Connect with Jami

Followers

Chuck's Special Message:

Blog Archive

The Inspiration Behind the Blog

Sunday, June 9, 2013

BLOGGER BOOK FAIR - JULY 2013

Check in to the Blogger Book Fair, and book your trip to far away places!

July 22-26, 2013

As of 5/31/2013, we have:

Events:

as of 5/31/2013

Art Fiction Gala hosted by Lucie Smoker

Three Wishes hosted by Kirstin Pulioff

Flash Fiction Challenge II hosted by Thomas Winship

Reader's Choice Awards hosted by Sherri at Shut Up & Read

Indie Soap Box Files hosted by Shah Wharton

Monster Menagerie hosted by Noree at Trip the Eclipse

Join us on:

Thursday, February 7, 2013

Blogger Book Fair 2013 February 7 DAY 1

Amazon Rating:

Shadow’s Edge: Book 1 of the Kyn Kronicles

Buy Yours Now:

About Jami Gray

Connect with Jami

Check in to the Blogger Book Fair,
and book your trip to far away places!