Revelation by Rayna Noire - Virtual Tour and Giveaway

 

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Bewitching Book Tours. Rayna will be awarding a $60 Amazon Gift Card - Tour Wide Giveaway!

Revelation
Pagan Eyes
Book Two
Rayna Noire
Genre: Paranormal YA

Nora’s impending college graduation is a triumph over the dark incident in her past that changed her life and stopped her best friend’s. Balancing school, work and her demented admirer at the diner is tough. All she has is six more months, but it similar to walking a tightrope blindfolded.

Life-like dreams pull her into the 19th century world of Clayton. A man who declares he’s her soul mate. Even though, she’s decided against romance, the young witch finds hers elf drawn to the Irish healer, even hearing his voice in her head.

This would make most people question their sanity. Nora needs to find out if Clayton is real and if she’s crossing over into another w orld in her sleep. If she is, will she end up stuck in the past? Can magick bring them to gether?

Enjoy an Excerpt:

Brandon, the night cook, came in around seven to hang out a nd eat before his shift. The bald- headed cook was a former Marine, sporting several patri otic tattoos. Nora imagined if someone made the mistake of sneaking in the back door when Brandon w as working, he’d leave quickly once he saw the muscle-bound man.

Business had slowed enough that after she fixed him food, she left the kitchen to talk to him.

Oddly, she felt at ease with the intimidating man. Ther e was no aura of evil around him.

“Thanks for the omelet.” Brandon delivered the praise af ter his first bite. “You have a nice light hand with the eggs. Know when to fold before it br owns too much.”

Her face flushed a little. People didn’t normally com pliment her cooking. They only griped when they thought it wasn’t fast enough. “Thanks. It’s just eggs, ya know.”

He shoveled in another mouthful, chewed then swallowed be fore speaking. “Yeah, but you’d be surprised how the average person can’t make a decent egg. Either they break the yolk or end up burning it.”

Nora found herself smiling at his simple praise. In anothe r man, she might have thought he was flirting with her, but this was Brandon. She felt s he’d known him forever, as opposed to just the last three years. “I think you’re just saying it to make me feel good.”

He grinned. The simple gesture made him look younger. How ol d was he? Maybe in his thirties, hard to know with his shaved head. He’s not for you.

Blinking, Nora looked around to see if anyone else had enter ed the diner. Nope, it was still just her, Brandon, and Bonnie. That meant the voice had be en in her head.

About the Author:

 

Rayna Noire is an author and a historian. The desire to uncover the truth behind the original fear of witches led her to the surprising discovery that people believed in magick in some form up to 150 year s ago. A world that believed the impossible could hap pen and often did must have been amazing. With this in mind, Ms. Noire taps into this dimension, shapes it into stories about Pagan families who really aren’t that different from most people. They do go on the occasional time travel adventures and magick happens.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/AuthorRaynaNoire
Twitter: www.twitter.com/raynanoire
Website: www.raynanoire.weebly.com
Amazon Page: http://www.amazon.com/Rayna-Noire/e/B00J8XP14A/ref
Youtube Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zWNT-FbyvvA
Smashwords (E-book): http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/422243
Amazon (Paperback): http://amzn.to/P2vwMm
Amazon Kindle: http://amzn.to/1koL5YF

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The Hazel Tree by Julia Debski - Virtual Tour and Giveaway

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Bewitching Book Tours. There is a giveaway for two print books (US/Canada only) and 5 ebooks via the Rafflecopter at the end of the post.

The Hazel Tree by Julia Debski
Genre: YA Fantasy Romance
Available at Amazon and BN

Book Description:

The Hazel Tree revisits a classic Cinderella tale of abuse and sought after freedom from the confines of a cruel life.

Ivy Lune is not your ordinary girl for within her blood flows the secrets of an ancient species of werewolf; a secret that also foretells of a great war and a struggle for ultimate supremacy.

Ivy lives a life of isolation torment at the hands of her aunt and cousins for the majority of her life. Mistreated and neglected, she longs to escape the shackles of her prison-like life. And in that longing, she learns the truth of her identity. She learns her place in a long line of events that were set into motion many years ago. She finds intimacy and belonging in a much larger family.

All the while, unknown to her, there are dangerous forces are at work; old blood ties and murderous plots threaten her chance at happiness beyond her current life.

The Hazel Tree is a tale of mystery and romance set against a supernatural backdrop of terrifying and awesome power.

Book Trailer: http://youtu.be/a6y2fro8eG8

Now enjoy an excerpt:

Prologue

Nestled deep within the dark mountains that neighbor the Black Sea lay an ancient castle in a valley, forever hooded by a swirl of thunderous clouds. It looked as though some god or deity had taken an inkbottle and poured the contents into the dip between the mountains. It cloaked the ground, the water, the stone, and even the air. To each molecule of oxygen clung a droplet of shadow, tinting the air so black no torch could pierce it. The air hung heavy, masking Waelwulf Castle and its residents. Any sign of Mother Nature’s beauty had long escaped this land, all vegetation long gone. In its place resided an evil force, something far more vicious and deadly than any visitor could imagine. It belonged to the family who lived within the impenetrable stonewalls: the royal family of Wulf, the head of the Black Sea Pack, the sole survivor of the Great Wars, the most ancient and powerful pack on planet Earth.

In front of their home was a vast plain, stretching deep into the darkness. Two massive wolves emerged from the shadows simultaneously. Upon catching sight of each other’s glittering eyes in the blackness, their hackles rose and growls erupted from deep within their chests. Circling slowly with teeth bared, each step was calculated, measured, carefully placed. Wolves crossing paths on the barren grounds that surrounded the castle were rare. A direct challenge such as this was always met with death for the offending party. Both wolves had this in mind as they faced each other off.

A howling wind brushed across them then, curling around their paws and tails and the hills of their tense raised shoulders before sweeping into the darkness. With it though the wolves caught each other’s scents and relaxed with recognition. They moved in unison towards the castle.

They reached the scarred metal gates that stood a few dozen paces from the castle’s front door. For centuries all that had stood between the foe in battles and the castle had been these gates, somehow untouchable by the enemy. Warriors believed it was protected by magic.

The wolves shifted into their human forms. "Axel," one said, nodding. His appearance was much like his wolf: black hair, confident brown eyes, square jaw, long legs and a tall frame. Even his gait was like his wolf’s, the slow cadence of a predator.

"Robinson," Axel said in return. He was short with a brush of red hair across his head and jaw, and small, nervous eyes. He didn’t have any of the grace his comrade had, due to his short stature.

After the brief exchange, they took the time to make themselves presentable, straightening the rumples in their clothing. The old gate creaked open, allowing them to pass and approach the castle’s front doors. Robinson stepped forward then and knocked evenly three times.

After a long pause, one of the doors slowly creaked open, revealing a thin young man dressed in plain black clothing with royal red embroidering, leaning heavily on a wooden cane. Recognizing the two men, he quickly hobbled aside. They strode past him without any acknowledgement. It was later, after they had moved out of earshot of the handicapped porter, that Axel said something.

"Learn a lesson from Dane, Robinson. Never ever question your superiors. Look at him, once one of the kingdom’s finest warriors. And now condemned to a life of servitude, and with a damaged leg! He doesn’t even have the option of marrying, poor fellow."

Robinson merely nodded. There was not much too be said, in any case, as he knew more about Dane’s offense than Axel thought or knew himself.

Any chance to continue the conversation was ended as they reached the end of the cold corridor. Axel reached out almost hesitantly, and knocked a specific beat on the plain little door. A peephole was opened, revealing a menacing eye staring down upon the two men.

“I am here to see King Cronan. He is expecting me,” Robinson said confidently, silently challenging the eye to deny him.

“I am also here to see His Majesty,” Axel added, a slight quaver to his voice.

The eye flickered from one spy to the other several times before taking a few slow, long blinks. After a long minute, the eye finally withdrew itself and the peephole slammed shut. Then the door opened to reveal the owner of the eye, a large man, taller than Robinson and thicker than Axel’s height, with an array of battle scars that shone in the light as he grunted at them and led them down a narrow hallway.

It eventually opened into a large, majestic room. The walls were covered in looted swords, shields, heads of enemies, and other treasures; priceless paintings of the kings who had ruled over Waelwulf Castle long ago were hung over the multiple crackling fireplaces. Yet even with the candlelight and the fires burning, the room was still dark, darker than much of the castle Robinson and Axel had traveled through.

The most ornate chandelier hung over a painting of a bearded man standing beside a dark brown wolf, their shoulders touching. In the center of the room was almost an exact replica of the portrait, minus the wolf, who had simply been the same man posing in his other form. In fact, it appeared as if the King had barely aged a day since the portrait was finished over sixty years ago.

"Axel. Robinson. I trust you bring news?" King Cronan asked, sipping wine from a silver goblet.

"Yes, Your Highness. I have returned with information of the Orarius Pack, as you requested," Axel announced puffing his chest out grandly.

"And you, Robinson? What do you return with?"

"I return with good news, Your Highness," Robinson replied with a shadow of a smirk. Cronan chuckled slightly, mildly impressed by Robinson’s word choice. Axel didn't find it amusing.

"Your Highness, the descendant we have been watching—his mate is with child," Axel said, disgruntled.

The King’s expression grew somber once more and he focused a penetrating gaze on Axel. "And do you know the sex of the child?"

Axel hesitated before bowing his head. "I do not, Your Highness. My deepest apologies."

"Your apologies will not tell us the gender of the offspring, Axel, no matter how deep they may be," the King said in a cold, detached voice. Axel swallowed audibly.

Suddenly the King snapped his fingers and a dozen wolves emerged from the shadows of the room. They prowled forward, snarls erupting from them one by one as they closed in on Axel.

"It will be a she-wolf, Your Highness," Robinson said calmly, as if the proceedings around him didn't bother him in the slightest—which, knowing Robinson, actually didn’t. He knew that in light of Axel’s disappointing performance, he would be rewarded for the morsel of information.

King Cronan held up a hand, signaling the wolves to halt and return to their designated spots. "And do we know anything about the garden?" he asked, looking thoroughly pleased at the vague wording of his question.

But Robinson understood perfectly. "The tree has sprouted, but it can barely be distinguished from the weeds," Robinson replied.

"So we will have to wait," said the King, making it sound more like a statement than a question. He locked his eyes onto his spy’s. Robinson did not waver, holding his gaze calmly as the atmosphere in the room grew tense until, finally the King began to chuckle and they both looked away at once.

With a flick of his wrist, King Cronan dismissed the two men. Axel was the fastest to bow and turn his back on the king. Eager to leave the room, he didn’t notice the change of his superior’s expression.

Robinson had been slower, and paused at the subtle shift in the air. “You must be wondering why I told both of you to report to me at the same time.” While the question was directed at both of them, the king’s gaze did not waver from Axel’s back. The ginger man had frozen, eyes closed, still facing the door, though there was no denying the fear that trembled through his body. Cronan continued as if he had not noticed. “You see, I suspected that one of you was, perhaps, a spy. An infiltrator.”

Robinson froze as well, despite his best efforts. No, surely no…

Another snap of Cronan’s fingers and the wolves re-emerged, more aggressive and terrifying than before. Half moved towards Axel, the others towards Robinson. Axel turned to his king. “Your Highness—please—I don’t understand.” The words slipped from his tongue and into the room before he had a chance to stop them.

That was a mistake.

Cronan’s nostrils flared and a hand twitched towards the goblet. “How can I be more clear, Axel?”

“Yes Axel, what has His Majesty said that you find so difficult to understand?” Robinson said, against his better judgment. The king’s eyes snapped to Robinson, growing ever more black but still holding a sparkle of amusement. What boring company he must keep for Robinson’s words to hold such humor.

Axel looked at Robinson, eyes full of betrayal and fear. In return Robinson looked back with remorse.

A second snap of fingers signaled two wolves to grab each of Axel’s arms. The cries echoed around the room as sharp teeth sunk into tender flesh. “You see, I think that you know more than you are revealing to me. If Robinson was able to discover the gender of the child and find the tree, surely you would be able to as well. So why not tell me? Ah, yes. Because you had something to protect. Because your loyalties lie elsewhere—with the Orarius Pack, the Coastal Pack,” Cronan spat at Axel.

“You are mistaken, Y-your Highness.” Axel’s voice hitched as the wolf holding his right arm tightened his grip, sinking his teeth deeper into the muscle. Axel’s knees gave out, and his face paled.

“I am not mistaken, Axel. You are. You pledged allegiance to the wrong pack,” the King deadpanned before drinking the rest of the liquid in his goblet. He smacked his lips a couple of times before returning his gaze to the man on his knees, now quietly sobbing. Robinson discreetly bowed his head, but turned it at a slight angle so he could catch Axel’s eye. Through the tears, the doomed man watched as Robinson mouthed sacred words to him: Father Moon, may you carry my brother’s spirit and his wolf safely to the Sacred Land and may you-

Robinson stopped and turned his head away as droplets of blood splattered across his face and screams pierced the air. The sound of tearing flesh was not unfamiliar, but it still made Robinson feel a deep, inconsolable sadness. He finished the prayer in his head, hoping it caught onto Axel’s spirit in time. Soon the screams stopped and silence fell, except for the quiet drip-drop of blood. Robinson slowly raised one hand and wiped away the red stain on his cheek. It smeared instead.

“Well then, I suppose we will just have to pay them a visit. Go find Prince Naples and tell him to get ready,” Cronan, said, continuing the conversation as if nothing had happened. And indeed, it appeared as if nothing had, the wolves having returned to the shadows while King Cronan and Robinson stood facing one another. The stench of death was easy to ignore if you tried hard enough. The sound of dripping blood, however, still echoed.

“Yes, Your Highness,” Robinson said. He stowed away his remorse and grief for Axel. They had only known each other briefly and compassion was not welcome in the Mara Negra’s court. Turning his head away, Robinson allowed himself a small triumphant smile. Everything was going according to plan.

The king rose from his seat, empty goblet in hand. He approached Axel’s torn and mangled body and lowered the goblet into one of the deeper pools of blood, making sure to fill it as much as he could before he took a sip. So perhaps it had not been wine.

Julia Debski was born in Warsaw, Poland in 1996. Her family moved around a lot during her childhood before finally settling down in Chattanooga, Tennessee. It wasn't until the 8th grade that she found her passion for writing. It was thanks to a particularly inspiring English teacher and a story that needed to be told. So she began to write, and she never stopped.

Four years later she found herself with nearly a dozen started novels and short stories. As junior in high school she was introduced to Greg Wilkey, a self-published independent author of four novels. He soon became a mentor to her as she worked to write and self-publish her own novel. After two years of hard work, and a nearly a year of mentorship The Hazel Tree was published in October 2013.

Website: http://juliadebski.weebly.com

Blog: http://spotofinkandstory.blogspot.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/juliadebski (@juliadebski)

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorjuliadebski

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7351439.Julia_Debski

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/julponey/

http://www.pinterest.com/julponey/the-hazel-tree/

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Protostar by Braxton Cosby - Virtual tour and giveaway

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. One randomly chosen winner will receive a signed copy of PROTOSTAR (US Shipping Only) via the Rafflecopter at the end of the post.

Why YA (or Middle Grade) fiction? What draws you to it?

Young Adult! I love to read a good series that takes you into another world and gives you characters that you can fall in love with. It’s what first got me into writing. My love for young people also drove me. There is so much potential in encouraging and inspiring young people to do great things. The more we are able to poor into one another, the better off the entire planet will be. I also got a lot of my inspiration to write from God. He is the voice in my head that keeps me going. He supplied the base for The Star-Crossed Saga series from its conception and now I have been able to take it forward with the trilogy and the screenplay for movie adaptation. It has become more than just a book, but now it is a franchise.

 Pretend your protagonist is at school and opens his/her locker – what will we see inside?

William will see a picture of Sydney, some bounty hunter hand gun, a comb, and a timer. The timer is the critical piece that you’ll have to read Protostar to find out why.

 What books were your favorite as a youth and why?

I loved those Choose Your Own Adventure books. They were very cool. Although, I must admit that I was the type that skimmed to the end to peek and cheat if the decision was the wrong one.

What’s your favorite sweet treat?

Cheesecake. I bake them from scratch. I am very tough on restaurants that make them. Oftentimes, they cut way too many corners on good cheesecaking.

What candy do you give out at Halloween?

I’m a Snicker’s fan, but I give out M&Ms. Who can pass up chocolate.

What superpower would you love to have? Why?

Make me invisible. Some days I’d go without clothes, just to feel the sun on my skin. Then of course is the nice notion that I can escape from work when I want to.

What book is on your nightstand currently?

I’m reading The Maze Runner right now. It’s a pretty good story and he world building is engaging.

Hunger Games or Twilight? Why?

Easily Hunger Games. I respect what Meyers did, but Collins really laid out an impressive story that focuses on the importance of decision and accountability of young people in the face of despair.

Sum up your book for Twitter: 140 characters or less.

StarCrossed lovers, sci-fi romance you can feel, see, and touch. Protostar is the Readers Favorite YA book of the year.

Playlist for your current book.

Anything Maroon 5, John Mayer, John Legend, or Bruno Mars.

Protostar
The Star-Crossed Saga
Book 1
Braxton A. Cosby

Genre: Young Adult/Sci-fi Romance

Publisher: Winter Goose Publishing
Date of Publication: April 16th, 2014

ISBN: 978-1-941058-01-5
ASIN: 1941058019

Number of pages:346
Word Count: 99k

Cover Artist: Winter Goose Publishing

Book Description:

On the brink of civil war, the Torrian Alliance continues with its mission to obliterate Star-children across the universe in order to suppress an intergalactic evil. Following the recommendations of his council, King Gregorio Derry reluctantly agrees to send his only son William on a mission to restore honor to his family name.

William seeks to complete his assignment, the elimination of a Star-child named Sydney on planet Earth, but when the assassination is delayed he begins to realize an emotional connection with his target.

With conspiracy threatening his home planet, and a hidden menace on Earth seeking to secure a vested interest, William finds himself torn between irrevocable duty and sacrificing everything he stands for to defend Sydney.

As William and Sydney struggle to overcome their impossible circumstances, they start to wonder if the connection of two Star-Crossed lovers will be enough to save them from certain doom.

Available at Amazon

Now enjoy an excerpt:

Sarah stood atop the mountainside looking out into the sky. The expanse of rich darkness and scattered stars reminded her of home. She desired to return there someday, but knew that she couldn’t. Things had been set in motion. There was no way to turn back now, even if she tried.

Still, something within her body felt wrong.

Is this the right place, right time? she thought.

Maybe the details got skewed, blended together, lost amongst all the immaculate planning. Even they were known to be wrong sometimes. She hoped against all hope that they weren’t. But stars never lie. She gazed into the sky. Their configuration—constellation after constellation, linked like a chain, with the Star of David perched in the center—was picture perfect. This had to be it. All she had to do now . . . was wait.

And wait she did.

Hours passed as the moon slid by. Just as her mind began to fill with doubt, it finally happened. The ground underneath her shifted, rocking her from side to side, up and down, as the stars burned brightly. She braced herself, running down from the mountain the best she could. Her old bony legs wobbled, struggling to keep her upright as she negotiated the uneven layers of rock and grass. A loud crashing noise like the banging of cymbals lit her ears on fire as the sky parted, sending a tiny bright shard screaming across the black canvas, growing larger as it drew near.

Her eyes snapped to the road—the projected point of impact. But one detail had been missed.

Unaccounted for.

Someone else was there.

A vehicle sped down the dusty road, on a straight collision course with the object, which continued to grow larger and larger as time ticked on. Sarah waved her hands as wildly as she could screaming, “Hey, you have to stop!”

But her screams went unnoticed. She gasped as the object crashed to the earth, tearing the car into pieces. She squinted, filtering the heat from the explosion as she moved in closer to examine the wreckage.

A gaping hole where the roof used to be greeted her, revealing the charred remains of the female passenger. She scanned the rest of the vehicle for survivors, finding only the shell of the driver white-knuckled to the steering wheel.

Her heart dropped.

The muffled sound of a baby crying tickled her ears, urging her to examine the object in the passenger seat more closely. It resembled a meteor, covered in craters and black ash that sent her into a coughing panic. A small crack in the outer shell provided just enough space for her to look inside. Reaching out for the door handle, she grabbed it with both hands—wrinkled fingers trembling as she ripped the car door free—tossing it by the wayside. With a sigh of relief, she peeled back the shell. Black smoke stung her eyes as her hands burned from the heat. But Sarah ignored them both, pressing forward with her mission. Nothing would stop her now. With wet eyes she smiled, finally finding what she was so desperately looking for—a baby girl.

About the Author:

Braxton A. Cosby is a dreamer with a passion for inspiring others to love, in spite of circumstance and convenience.

His calling to pen a young-adult series that is smart, witty, and thought provoking, has challenged readers to answer the question: What would you choose, love or irrevocable duty?

Braxton lives in Atlanta, GA, where he co-hosts a local radio show on WAOK which is a mash-up of current events and health and wellness. He also has a blog where he discusses everything from health and entertainment to spirituality and relationships.

Website: www.braxtoncosby.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrBraxtonCosby

Twitter:@BraxtonACosby

Blog: www.braxtoncosby.com

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4987409.Braxton_A_Cosby

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Understudy by Cheyanne Young - Virtual Tour and Giveaway

LRS is visiting with us today as part of her virtual book tour for her YA book, Understudy.

The author will be awarding a $20 Amazon GC and five ebook copies of Understudy during her tour. Enter below using the rafflecoter at the end of this post.

Why YA (or Middle Grade) fiction? What draws you to it?

I started writing YA books because I was in the YA age group at the time and that was all I read. Now that I’m almost 30 (ahhhh!!!) I’m still passionate about young adult books because I feel that being young is the most important part of your life. Being a teenager is about experiencing the “firsts” in life, and that’s what I like writing about. Plus, I’m still a teenager at heart and I’m not sure if I’ll ever actually grow up.

What books were your favorite as a youth and why?

I read every single Babysitter’s Club book (My teacher had over 100) when I was in 5th grade and then quickly moved on to RL Stine’s Fear Street series. I loved reading about characters I knew and going on exciting adventures.

What candy do you give out at Halloween?

I recently started giving out glow stick bracelets and I quickly became the cool house in the neighborhood. Kids get a ton of candy anyway and the glow sticks make for a spooky scenery when everyone is walking glowing at night. The best part about Halloween is hitting up the store the day after and then consuming ridiculous amounts of discount chocolate.

What reality show would you love to be on? Why?

I would want to have my own reality show. Something about the crazy and sometimes boring life of a writer. The main reason I’d want this is because I feel like having a camera in your face would be great motivation to quit watching TV and get back to writing my books.

Sum up your book for Twitter: 140 characters or less.

Directing a play with a hot guy can’t possibly go wrong. Or can it?

Favorite hot beverage. Why?

I am in love with coffee. I think my obsession came from being a child who spent the summers with my grandmother. She had a 2pm coffee and cookies break every day and although my coffee was mostly milk, it was tradition and a tradition I still keep to this day.

You’ve just won a million dollars and you’re not allowed to save any of it. What do you spend it on?

I’d pay off my mortgage, my parent’s mortgage and my best friend’s student loans. Then I’d take my family on an epic vacation that only ended when the last penny was spent.

The high school play is in two months and senior Wren Barlow just became director. Wren still isn't over the fact that she got stiffed as a stagehand instead of the lead role that she totally deserved. Now she is in charge of rehearsals, costumes, navigating around cast member hookups and managing the real life drama at home.

The principal counts on her to succeed because tickets have been sold and the money has been spent. But when he drops a gorgeous bad boy on her and wants him to help the play for extra credit, she falls hard for someone she knows she can't date.

With everything spinning out of control, the mysterious and secretive detention king named Derek has a few tricks up his sleeve and wants to help—too bad Wren is scared to give him a chance to prove himself.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Cheyanne is a native Texan with a fear of cold weather and a coffee addiction that probably needs an intervention. She loves books, sarcasm, nail polish and paid holidays. She lives near the beach with her family, one spoiled rotten puppy and a cat who is most likely plotting to take over the world.

She also writes under the pen name Amy Sparling.

www.CheyanneYoung.com

www.Twitter.com/NormalChey

https://www.goodreads.com/CheyanneYoung

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The Zombie Next Door by T.W. Kirchner - Virtual Book Tour and Tour Wide Giveaway

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Bewitching Book Tours.

Tour wide giveaway - enter to win a $10 Amazon Gift Card using the Rafflecopter below.

You can see the other stops on the tour by clicking the tour banner. Thanks to the author for answering a few of our prying questions!

Why middle grade fiction? What draws you to it?

It’s kind of a round-about answer, but here it is. I’ve always liked to write, but I originally became interested in writing books because I wanted to illustrate them. About the same time that I learned that publishers don’t want you to illustrate your own books unless you’re officially an “illustrator”, I also realized that I like to write more than 800 words. Problem solved. The material I liked as a child and still do includes pirates and creepy creatures, which are perfect subjects for middle graders but not always good for the picture book crowd. I also like to write material geared toward getting boys interested in reading. It’s fun for me to write fast-paced action-adventures.

What’s your favorite sweet treat?

Dark chocolate. I love the stuff, and it’s supposed to be good for you—in moderation, of course. I can even pass up milk chocolate, but I get cravings for Hershey’s dark when I’m stressed out. A close second is an awesome chocolate chip coffee cake that I bake—with semi-sweet chocolate chips. I just took one out of the oven, so I’m smelling it as I’m writing about it…

What superpower would you love to have? Why?

That’s an easy one. The power of instant transport. If I could get from point A to point B in the blink of an eye, I could have so much extra time in my day. Some days, it feels like I spend three hours in my car driving back and forth..and that doesn’t include the waiting-in-the-car time at the final destination when I’m the driver for Mom’s Taxi Service. It not only would save time, but just think how mind-blowing it would be to pop over to any destination that I’m writing about instead of scouring the Internet for info. I could vacation anywhere and return home in a flash at the end of the day to sleep in my own comfy bed.

What book is on your nightstand currently?

There is no book on my nightstand, but there is one on my computer. I’m getting a sneak peek at the Scarlet Envy, the sequel to Scarlet Revenge written by a close friend of mine, Ann McGinnis. It’s a mystery romance, which isn’t my usual type of book, but it’s hooked me pretty good with the mystery aspect.

You’re stranded on a desert island—which character from your book do you want with you? Why?

My choice is purely from a ‘who can help me get off the island the fastest’ standpoint. I’d have to go with whoever placed the white magic on the pendant. By the way, I know who it is, but I don’t want to leak a spoiler. Readers can find out the magician’s identity in The Zombie Upstairs. Since white or light magic is good magic, I’d feel like they would be able to conjure up an escape plan that didn’t involve evil. And they wouldn’t be tempted to turn me into a zombie, either.

The Zombie Next Door

For the sleepy, seaside town of Vivian, life is usually just another day at the beach until a rash of bizarre robberies occur with one thing in common—the DNA lifted from the crime scene belongs to a dead man. Fourteen-year-old Goldie Rich is hardly concerned about that. She has enough problems dealing with her annoying guardian for the summer, older sister Gema.

Goldie’s problems escalate when she finds a pendant necklace washed up on the beach. The pendant contains the souls of zombies created by an evil sorcerer. Goldie must wear the necklace until she frees the souls, but to accomplish this, she has to confront the zombies face to face.

Goldie seeks help from her best friend, eccentric and free-spirited Rita. Although the pair’s zombie hunting exploits get them into huge trouble, they uncover the truth about the town’s robberies and how the secrets of Goldie’s past will define her future.

Now enjoy an excerpt:

Chapter 1

Friday the thirteenth. Bad things happen. Superstition, right? Wrong. My day started off on a downward slide when I rolled out of bed. My bare feet didn’t sink into the soft, dry carpet like they always did. Instead, a warm, gooey substance oozed between my toes. Before I could slip my glasses on, the unmistakable odor of dog poop drifted by.

Right then, I should have poured hand sanitizer on my feet, cleaned the carpet, and gone back to bed, but I couldn’t. I was facing the dreaded math section of testing in my second to last week of eighth grade at Vivian Middle School. My anticipated last week as a Vivian Sea Turtle.

“Goldie, are you up, yet?” my sister, Gema, screamed from downstairs. “Goldie, did you hear me?”

While I stood in a pile of poop, the annoying factor of Gema’s screeching voice was magnified by a million.

After I took a deep, calming yoga breath, I screamed back. “I’m up already.”

The deep breath didn’t really calm me at all, and I made sure my answer sounded heavy with attitude on purpose. Gema had been driving me nuts, and it was only the first week of my three-month sentence. This was going to be a long summer. Come to think of it, it seemed like Friday the thirteenth all week.

Besides not having time to eat breakfast, I couldn’t find my favorite earrings or a matching pair of shoes. I showed up five minutes late for school, choked on the probability section of the math test, and swapped radius for diameter. By the time the final school bell rang, I sprinted away from school in tears and headed for my favorite get away spot. The beach.

Rita was thrilled to go with me even in my pathetic state, but that’s how best friends are.

I closed my eyes and took a deep breath of the salty air. The breeze blowing through my hair, sun warming my face, and harmony in the waves sent me to another place. A beautiful island where there wasn’t school or screaming sisters. I loved the feel of warm, grainy sand, instead of dog poop, squishing between my toes. Nothing beat the feeling.

I was brought back to reality with a nudge from Rita. “Earth to Goldie. Let’s head over to the pier.”

As I gazed toward the pier, the beach was creepily deserted. Not that this narrow half-sandy, half-rocky strip of Vivian ever was overly crowded, but today, only a few sunbathers, joggers, and hobos were scattered about. I was really glad Rita tagged along because this scenario seemed like a good opening for a horror movie. After all, it was still Friday the thirteenth. “Isn’t it weird how empty the beach is for the middle of the afternoon? Why do you think? There’s not a cloud in the sky and it’s hot.”

Rita tied a side knot in her pumpkin-colored tee making the stack of bangle bracelets jingling up and down her arm sound like sleigh bells. “No idea.” She tightened her ponytails by pulling two sections of hair in opposite directions. They sprouted from the top of her head and were streaked with neon orange gel to match her ‘mood of the week’. “It’s more of a mystery why you’re such a downer on a beautiful day. Especially a Friday. And with the math exam over and only one final left before summer break.” Rita improved a cheer. “Then we’re gonna be high-schoolers!”

After working an assortment of jobs which include a computer programmer, marketing director, and substitute teacher, T.W. Kirchner decided to concentrate on her second loves, writing and art. Her first loves are her husband, two children, and furry menagerie known as the Kirchner Zoo. Other published books by T.W. Kirchner include Pirates Off the Deep End and Pirates Off the Wall.

Website: http://www.twkirchner.com/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/tinainlv
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100006500718993
Publisher Author Page: http://shortontimebooks.com/?page_id=231

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Launching Sisters to Witchcamp by LRS - Bewitching Book Tours

LRS is visiting with us today as part of her virtual book tour for her new book Launching Sisters to WitchCamp.

The author will be awarding two $10 gift cards to MuseItUp Publishing Bookstore and five ebook copies of Launching Sisters to WitchCamp by LRS. Enter below using the rafflecoter at the end of this post.

Why do you write juvenile fiction? What draws you to it?

“You never forget your first love.” The books I read in my childhood are what kindled my reading passion, and my loyalties remains with this genre.

I love reading and writing about children and young adults for the way they live in the moment and invest their all into the story’s conflict. Adults have lost that type of focus; there’s too much other stuff going on in their lives. Neither can adults compete with the authenticity of youths, whose emotions are so raw, and who view the world through glasses clear of the shades of film that accumulate over adults’ throughout the years.

Pretend your protagonist is at school and opens his/her locker – what will we see inside?

Stand back as J.J. opens his locker; a basketball tumbles out, sending open packages of stale chips, stiff licorice, and a can of coke flying. The coke splatters the NBA posters plastered on the locker door. You grab what looks like a beaten rag from the locker to clean up the mess, but J.J. yells at you for ruining his basketball jersey.

What’s your favorite sweet treat?

When I was in middle grade school, my friends and I were into The Baby-sitter’s Club. Claudia inspired me to become the junk food aficionada I still am today. My addiction to candies prevents me from choosing just one. I have designated treats to different activities. For example, I refuse to do carpool without a stash of Jolly Ranchers in my purse. But in case of an apocalypse, I’d pick Jelly Belly’s for the wide variety of authentic flavors.

What did you want to be when you grew up? Why?

It’s a cliché, but I truly did want to become an author, and create more of the magic that enchanted me so. However, in high school, I was a confidant to many a tormented teen, and that’s how I became infatuated with psychology. As it turned out, I did indeed study the field in college and graduate school.

What book is on your nightstand currently?

My books aren’t left lying around. If I haven’t read a book in one sitting, it probably isn’t worth mentioning. I just read Golden Urchin by Madeleine Brent from 2 to 5 a.m. These days my TBR list is almost all YA or MG, so this was a deviation from my usual genre. Though the MC is a teen, I wouldn’t categorize it as YA. Don’t regret I read it though.

Hunger Games or Twilight? Why?

I was late in the game, as I waited for all three books to be out before I took up Suzanne Collin’s riveting trilogy.

And then I read them all in one night.

The premise gripped me; it was like I was foreseeing the (formidable) future through a crystal globe. And her storytelling drew me in and didn’t let go; I don’t believe there was an unnecessary word there.

Favorite hot beverage. Why?

There was a coffee shop in SoCal that had the best hot chocolate, and when we moved to Canada, I went on a quest to find their match.

My efforts were futile.

Last years, for my b-day, my husband surprised me with a huge tub of the hot chocolate mix that coffee shop uses! He managed to procure it from the store’s supplier and imported it. It ranks as one of the top birthday gifts ever in my book. Now, snow or shine, my day can’t end without a hot chocolate. It’s warm, relaxing, sweet, and never fails to hit the spot.

What four literary characters would you most like to have over for dinner?

First of all, I host a lot, and my experience is that I’m running back and forth from the kitchen, and miss out on all the juicy conversation. So the first character I’d invite is Mrs. Weasley; her magic wand will help me whip up a spread.

Okay, now that I can dine like a queen, I’ll take advantage of living in Canada, and extend invitations to my childhood favorites who live on Prince Edward Island — Anne Shirley and Gilbert Blythe.

I’d also enjoy having the subtly gusty Ella from Ella Enchanted, but I might forego the pleasure in favor Mr. Willy Wonka. (I trust him to bring along some great dessert).

You’re stranded on a desert island—which character from your book do you want with you? Why?

Definitely J.J. I’d be rolling my eyes and have to swallow his attitude, but he’s proven how brave and resourceful he is.

You’ve just won a million dollars and you’re not allowed to save any of it. What do you spend it on?

Years ago I fell in love with ASIMO, Honda’s household robot.

My best friend (from high school) deserves a home.

If anything is left over, I’d treat myself to a self-parking car (you don’t want to run into my car in the lot), and lifetime passes for my family to Disney’s parks all over the world.

Genre: Middle grade fantasy
Publisher: MuseItUp Publishing

Number of pages: 118
Word Count: 31474
Cover Artist: Charlotte Volnek

MuseItUp Publishing

Book Description:

Sixth-grader J.J. learns there are no easy breaks in life.

When J.J. discovers the opportunity to send his maddening sisters off to WitchCamp, he has fantasies of a delightful summer. However, J.J. and his friend are soon off on a ride they didn't anticipate -- one that lands them in a chilling mess of witch hunts and creature feasts.

With his creative ideas, J.J. utilizes their risky escapades to escape. But making deals with superhuman creatures just lands them in hotter water.

Now it’s up to J.J. to save them all from certain death by being more imaginative and daring than ever before.

The video trailer http://youtu.be/rKedRSdpmrQ

An excerpt:

“Crack open your piggy bank and we’re out of here.” I propel DaveyBoy to Main Street, and hit the costume store. Diving in to a pile of wigs, I pull out two that will do the job. My wig is shiny black and the hair hangs down to my elbows. DaveyBoy’s is a brown mop of frizz, which extends halfway down his back.

The manicurist looks like she’s ready to call the crazy house when we saunter in to her salon and ask for fake long nails. Money does the trick, though, and soon enough we exit with long nails polished in black.

DaveyBoy clears his throat. “Um, J.J., what exactly are we doing? Are we going to a costume party?”

“Don’t you get it, dude? Our long hair and nails are tickets to the WitchCamp!”

He walks straight into an electric pole.

“Ouch.” I wince.

He rubs his temple and looks at me with puppy dog eyes. “Tell me you’re joking.”

“A man’s got to do what a man’s got to do. But, cheer up, buddy. Think of it as an amazing adventure we can add to our list of summer escapades.”

About the Author:  LRS has a master’s degree in psychology. For more than ten years she pretended to be working while she was on the floor enjoying playtime with kids.

She has lived on the eastern and western coasts of the U.S.A, as well as abroad, and currently resides in Canada with her family. Wherever she is, she can’t pass by a toy store without going inside.

When she's not writing, she can usually be found in her kitchen, where she’s either baking (and sampling) cookies or stirring a pot. (Unfortunately, she has yet to find a magical spoon.)

http://www.launchingsisters.com/
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Launching-Sisters-to-Witchcamp/206550682866388
https://twitter.com/LaunchingSister

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Initiation by Rayna Noire - Virtual Book tour and Giveaway

Today we're visiting with author Rayna Noire on her tour with Bewitching Book Tours for Initiation. She'll be giving away 5 print copies of her book (US only), and a $50 Amazon GC via the rafflecopter at the end of this post.

PAGAN EYES CHARACTERS INTERVIEW/Esmeralda Hare

Today, we are talking with Esmeralda Hare. She’s the family matriarch of the Carpenter Family, an integral part of the Pagan Eyes series.

(Esmeralda clears her throat.) Esmeralda: Excuse me; I am the matriarch of the Hare family, not the Carpenter family. My daughter happened to marry a Carpenter, but that does not change who she is or who I am. The matriarch of the Carpenter family took off with a visiting evangelist. You could try tracking her down, but I doubt you’d have any luck with that.

(Interviewer is flustered.) Well now, Mrs. Hare. Tell me about your family.

Esmeralda: You can call me Madame Esmeralda, like my clients. Since you are so young, I might even let you call me Nana like my grandchildren do. My husband Buell and I only have one child, Maura. She’s exceptionally precious to me. Family is everything to the Romany. With Buell disappearing, I held my daughter and her family very close.

Interviewer: Your husband disappeared?

Esmeralda: Yes, he did. Left me a note about having to do something. Don’t get the wrong idea. He’s didn’t take up with some traveling evangelist like some. If he had to do something, then I believe it. Still, it’s been hard on me. Having the love of your life blink out of existence is a shock.

Interviewer: Did you search for him?

(Esmeralda glares at the interviewer.) Esmeralda: Do you think I would not look for my soul mate? I did. We did. Brought in the police, the ceremonial magicians, even a psychic who knew him well attempted astral projection, but no sign of Buell anywhere. There was no sense of his essence.

(Interviewer covers heart.) Interviewer: Do you think he might be…

Esmeralda: Dead. I thought of it. Even got my friend, Trisha, to do a séance. The spirits have not seen him, which means he isn’t dead. My only explanation is he has slipped into another dimension or time.

(Interviewer looks doubtful.)

Esmeralda: I recognize that expression. You think the old woman has gone around the bend due to grief over her loss. Think again, missy. There is a lot that goes on in this world that you miss because you refuse to believe. Ever wonder about people who mysteriously disappear?

Interviewer: I always assumed they were a crime victim or simply ran away.

Esmeralda: Some do, that’s true enough. Others stumble into time portals that are scattered throughout the planet. Maybe you heard of Einstein.

Interviewer: What does Einstein have to do with your husband?

Esmeralda: Buell met him once, but that’s beside the point. He described time as being folded on itself as opposed to being linear as most people believe. With that in mind, there are times when we can experience other times or even slip into them. I believe people leave emotional imprints. Have you ever visited a place of suffering like Alcatraz prison or a Nazi death camp? (Interviewer nods.)

Esmeralda: You probably felt a sense of oppression or hopelessness pulling at you. Some are more sensitive than others. I believe that need often pulls people in. That might have happened to Buell, but unfortunately, I don’t where he went. Interviewer: That must be rough on you.

Esmeralda: It is. More so now.

Interviewer: Why is that?

Esmeralda: My youngest granddaughter, Leah, is being pulled back in the past.

(Interviewer looks shocked.) Interviewer: What are you going to do?

Esmeralda: I’m not sure there is much we can do if it is her destiny. I bestowed protective amulets upon her. Amelia, another talented friend, is creating her an enchanted garment, but other than that, there is no alternative. All we can do is pool all our intentions and focus on a successful conclusion.

Interviewer: It seems like so little.

Esmeralda: It is more help than most get. In the end, everyone has to walk their own path, no matter their age.

Initiation
Pagan Eyes
Book 1
Rayna Noire

Book Description:

Leah Carpenter thought being the only witch in her local high school was hard. That was until she inexplicably found herself in the past running from an angry mob, which turned out to be much harder. Lionel, the man in charge of the mob, holds a grudge against a girl he calls Arabella. He thinks she’s Arabella.

Luckily, just about the time it looks as if she’s done for she pops back into her century. This causes trouble at school, but at least she has an understanding family. What happens in the past can hurt her. The whiplashes covering her body are proof enough. Her Nana believes she has to right a wrong in the past to stay in the present and go out with her crush, Dylan. What she discovers in the past is an evil so pure that it makes her blood run cold. She might not ever make it back for geometry class or more importantly a possible date with Dylan.

About the author:  Rayna Noire is an author and a historian. The desire to uncover the truth behind the original fear of witches led her to the surprising discovery that people believed in magick in some form up to 150 years ago. A world that believed the impossible could happen and often did must have been amazing. With this in mind, Ms. Noire taps into this dimension, shapes it into stories about Pagan families who really aren’t that different from most people. They do go on the occasional time travel adventures and magick happens.

www.facebook.com/AuthorRaynaNoire

www.twitter.com/raynanoire

www.raynanoire.weebly.com

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Dragon Fire by Dina von Lowenkraft - Virtual Tour and Giveaway

Today we're visiting with author Dina von Lowenkraft on his tour with Bewitching Book Tours for Dragon Fire. She'll be giving away 10 eBooks and 2 print books via the rafflecopter at the end of this post.

Why YA fiction? What draws you to it?

I love the themes of self-discovery, of first (true?) love, of questioning everything you have ever known, of knowing you have the power to change the world and that feeling of endless possibility that we all had/have as teenagers but that all too often people forget as they move on to their 20’s and 30’s and get caught up in their jobs, families, responsibilities etc. I never sat down and asked myself what I should write - it just came naturally that the themes I always write about are all YA whether I write fantasy or sci-fi.

What’s your favorite sweet treat?

One? only one? I have too many to choose one... basically I love desserts, especially ones with chocolate like a ‘mi-cuit’ or a ‘fondant’ (think brownie but even better - a little lighter, but just as chocolatey) or with cream (think tiramisu or creme brulee - or even just a good scone with clotted cream and strawberry jam) or anything with butter and sugar, preferably melted together (think crepes beurre sucre)... oh my, I’m getting hungry just thinking about all these things, hmm... which one should I make first?

Favorite hot beverage. Why?

One? Seriously? Or maybe I’m the only one who does multiple kinds of hot drinks, all day long? Since I get too wired on caffeine, I usually limit (real) coffee and tea to the morning - but will have decaf (one or the other) in the afternoon. And I love herbal teas in the evening - right now I’m having one of my favorites, a loose leaf herbal blend from Germany.

Ideal summer vacation.

By myself with lots of time to write on a snow-covered mountain by the ocean with my family enjoying the sun and surf. No? Doesn’t work? Why not? OK, OK - some of my (real) ideal/dream places are Cape Cod, anywhere in Norway, or right here in the fields of Belgium with our horses. With time to write and my family, cocktails in the lingering light of sunset with friends, dinner by a campfire on the beach, a hike in the woods or across a glacier, and a bunch of good books to read.

You’re stranded on a desert island—which character from your book do you want with you? Why?

Rakan.

1. He’s hot (my husband had better not be reading this!)
2. He’s resourceful
3. He could just shift us elsewhere - but we can pretend he can’t because, well, you know... answer number 1 still applies.
4. He’s a shapeshifting dragon and he takes care of the people he cares about
5. He can manipulate matter and create fire - could come in handy, don’t you think?
6. He’s hot. I already said that? OK, um... he’s kind and generous and I’m sure he’ll figure out how to either get us off the island or make the island a very nice place to be. And he’s... never mind... you know what I mean!

Favorite pizza toppings.

Cheese. Any kind of cheese. I love cheese. Lots of it. I don’t eat meat and here in Belgium there isn’t a huge veggie choice in pizza toppings, but in the US I love grilled vegetables. With extra cheese, of course!

Create an ice cream flavor. What’s it called?

One? why one? why always only ONE? so two, at least two... first one that popped up in my mind is YUM - a dessert I made up based on a Tiramisu recipe, but without the coffee dipped lady fingers. It is a creamy mascarpone and egg base that I top with raspberries. The ice cream version would be a creamy, rich vanilla base laced with raspberry coulis (a smooth, strained raspberry sauce). YUM.

The other one would be Matcha with pistachio (called Matcha Crunch?) - don’t ask, I don’t know. Maybe it’s just the color... but I’d try it - and if it’s no good, well, I’ll just have to get another YUM!

You’ve just won a million dollars and you’re not allowed to save any of it. What do you spend it on?

I’d give it to Allan Savory to continue his work on fighting desertification and reversing climate change. If you haven’t heard of his work, check out his Ted Talk on ted.com.

Favorite class in high school. Why?

A literature class in my junior year - it was a pilot class and we would read a book from Monday to Wednesday (including heavy hitters like Dostoevsky), discuss it on Thursday and then hand in a 10-15 page paper on Friday. And start all over again the next week. I loved the class because it was challenging and exciting. I learned how to analyze what I was reading, write a paper and defend my ideas - all with a dozen other people who were just as passionate about literature as I was. It also got me over the fear of deadlines and over-thinking what I was writing - there was just no time to worry about it!

Thank you so much for having me on your blog!

Dragon Fire by Dina von Lowenkraft
Genre: YA fantasy romance
Publisher: Twilight Times Books

BN * Amazon * ARe

Book Description:

Some choices are hard to live with.

But some choices will kill you.

When seventeen-year-old Anna first meets Rakan in her hometown north of the Arctic Circle, she is attracted to the pulsing energy that surrounds him. Unaware that he is a shapeshifting dragon, Anna is drawn into a murderous cycle of revenge that pits Rakan and his clan against her best friend June.

Torn between his forbidden relationship with Anna, punishable by death, and restoring his family’s honor by killing June, Rakan must decide what is right. And what is worth living – or dying – for.

About the Author:

Born in the US, Dina von Lowenkraft has lived on 4 continents, worked as a graphic artist for television and as a consultant in the fashion industry. Somewhere between New York and Paris she picked up an MBA and a black belt. Dina is currently the Regional Advisor for SCBWI Belgium, where she lives with her husband, two children and three horses.

website: http://www.dinavonlowenkraft.com/

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dina-von-Lowenkraft/551209381555837

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7123641.Dina_von_Lowenkraft

Twitter: https://twitter.com/vonlowenkraft

Pinterset: http://pinterest.com/vonlowenkraft/

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Bad Reputation by P.W. Creighton

 

Today we're here with P.W. Creighton, talking about Bad Reputation, toured by Bewitching Book Tours.

Why YA (or Middle Grade) fiction? What draws you to it?

Initially, when I was writing my other novels and stories I would craft characters that had these really dynamic and significant events that happened in their back-stories that were driving their current motivations. Since the characters were in their early and mid-twenties most of these events were taking place during their high school years. So, when the story of Bad Reputation came to me it wasn’t much of a shift to focus on these influential years. One of the most compelling reasons for this focus is the natural setting. During these years emotions are heightened, there are new experiences every day, relationships are more awkward and complicated and as a teen everything feels uncertain.

What books were your favorite as a youth and why?

When I was younger I read all of the classics and got quite a few pizzas out of the Book-It program that kept me reading everything and anything. Out of all those I would say that aside from the classics, Sherlock Holmes and Goosebumps were my favorites. There’s nothing like a good mystery with an unexpected twist.

What did you want to be when you grew up? Why?

Rather entertainingly, in the second grade my teacher asked the same question. I didn’t have an answer then and in all the years since I still haven’t really ‘found’ an answer. I love adventure and travel and always learning something new. It’s how I ended up where I am today. As Benjamin Franklin said… “Either write something worth reading or do something worth writing…”

Sum up your book for Twitter: 140 characters or less.

Bad Reputation, it's the last day of school and gossip says someone is going to die. The weight of secrets will have a costly price…

Ideal summer vacation.

Sure it would be fun to dedicate a summer to traveling the globe and seeing all of the different countries but in truth, vacation for me means a chance to relax. In all of my travels the one thing that has always stuck with me is the New England coast. There’s nothing quite like it, especially off Marblehead, MA or Maine. So, the perfect summer vacation for me would be lounging on the coast all summer long.

What four literary characters would you most like to have over for dinner?

The first invitee would have to be Scott Fitzgerald’s Jay Gatsby because he would make for an excellent founder of the feast but also because he knows how to throw a party. He would also have great insight on any topic of dinner conversation. The second guest would have to be Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes because not only is he a brilliant detective but he would also be the most amusing counter to Gatsby. You know they’ll get into an argument at some point. To keep conversations really entertaining the third guest would have to be Lovecraft’s Professor William Dyer to regale guests with stories of adventure and the darker things that remain unknown. The final guest would have to be someone to really keep the boys on their toes, so Sara Paretsky’s Vic Warshawski is the logical choice. She wouldn’t hesitate to question Dyer’s stories or doubt Gatsby’s motives and call them out on it. Dinner would be the most entertaining, confusing and contemplative evening ever.

Playlist for your current book.

I’m going to cheat. Since my music constantly changes with whatever I’m writing my current playlist for the North Shore series consists of a lot of influential songs.

http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLXtRspeCNlwvUty45ZsK_YLnY0GZj6myu

Favorite class in high school. Why?

Favorite class in high school, hands down was Business English. Not only was it putting together the yearbook but, it was also the weekly student newspaper. I got the chance to wander wherever I wanted on stories, taking photos and for a week each year we could drive around town getting the advertisers for the yearbook. It was also a great get out of trouble card too when a teacher would ask where I was. “Out on a story.” ;-)

Bad Reputation
North Shore Book 1
P.W. Creighton
Genre: Young Adult Mystery/Romance

Number of pages: 279
Word Count: 62,000

Book Description:

The North Shore Sheriff's Department has a bit of a problem. Someone contacted the local radio station last night and left an alarming confession.

Logan and his friends may be gossiping about it but their only concern is getting through the last day of school before summer vacation. After all, tonight is the party of the year. No one wants to miss it.

But the weight of secrets will have a costly price…

Now, enjoy an excerpt:

Through the trees I could just barely make out the practice field ahead of me. Another little secret Sara had let me in on. The truant officer tended to make his rounds on the half-hour and kept a close eye on the path through the woods to the parking lot. If I came in from the practice field, no one would bat an eye.

“Then again,” I said aloud.

I thought about grabbing my jacket, but it really wasn’t cold enough. My phone on the other hand, I needed. Checking the screen, it was only a little after nine. Tardy, but not something that would stand out.

There was still a chance to ditch the entire day. My phone gave a brief buzz of notification. I checked it to find a text waiting. It was Hailey again.

“Where R U?”

I groaned. She was pissed at me. If I bailed, not only would Sara and Mom freak on me, Hailey would jump down my throat. I could avoid them, but I needed to take Hailey to the party tonight. I could just stand her up. I let out a heavy breath. I wanted to go though, and if I didn’t take her, she would still find a way to get there. It was just better to deal with her now than to put it off till the end of the day. Maybe she wouldn’t be too pissed.

“5 Min” I texted back and started walking towards the practice field. Old leaves and branches crunched underfoot, keeping my mind off the fact that Hailey was going to rip me a new one, and I had no clue what she was going to want.

The girl could hold a grudge better than anyone I’ve ever known.

I emerged into the open near one of the maintenance sheds. Why was I still with Hailey? She was constantly pissing me off, and she didn’t even hear me most of the time. I turned right to follow the maintenance path. I dumped Jamie for less than what I was putting up with now. I opened the texts from Hailey to scroll back. There had to be some reason.

A few days back through the texts was all I needed as a reminder. It was a ‘selfie’ shot from Hailey angled down at her. She was giving me a playful smile. Straight, platinum blonde hair, a tight low-cut top and a teasing attitude, she was hot. Knowing how she felt silenced any objections my brain could come up with at the moment.

I smiled to myself.

Tucking the phone in my front pocket, I crossed into the parking lot. I couldn’t see anyone over the cars but I didn’t need to push it. I quickened my pace towards the end of the science building.

At the far end of the concrete and faux wood building I walked around the corner to the concrete steps and black railing. I took one last breath of the free air before climbing the stairs to the heavy fire-door. It was always left unlocked so teachers could duck out to the parking lot or students could get to the athletic fields. The cold handle slipped from my grasp as I tried to open the door. I finally noticed the grease and dirt on my hands.

“Ugh,” I groaned.

About the Author:

Born in California, I have spent most of my life traveling throughout the US. I draw inspiration from my many adventures, turning my strange reality into fiction.

Over the years, I've found myself in many unusual situations, ranging from hanging off an 80 foot cliff-face in New York, to sailing off the coast of Salem, Massachusetts. I have had an opportunity to work at an archaeological excavation, and have even reported from the middle of a police stand-off.

When a teacher asked me in the second grade what I wanted to be when I grew up, I didn't have an answer. To be honest, I still don't know. I let my characters make that decision for me.

Find me online at:

http://www.pwcreighton.com/
http://www.facebook.com/AuthorPW
http://www.twitter.com/Ravenrequiem13
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5625997.P_W_Creighton
http://pinterest.com/ravenrequiem13/

The School of Ministry by Braxton A Cosby - Virtual Tour, Tour Wide Giveaway

Today we're visiting with author Braxton A. Cosby on his tour with Bewitching Book Tours for The School of Ministry.  He'll be giving away a $20 Amazon gift card via the raffle copter at the end of this post.

Why YA (or Middle Grade) fiction? What draws you to it?

I love YA for the simple fact that I have never lost the joy of being young and the power of youth. I love to dream of places never seen before, characters that are interesting, and action that screams frenetic. And that’s just from a television or movie perspective. I grew up watching cartoons like He-Man, Johnny Quest, GI Joe and transformers. As much as those shows carried a cool factor with them, I really fell in love with the characters and the relationships they built amongst one another. That gave them life and that life, made me connect with them. With YA, more than other genres of writing, connection between the reader and the characters (especially the main ones) is critical and that has to be built early on or you will lose the reader. The richness of the storytelling compels you to dive into the worlds. There’s a sweet elegance to Young Adult storytelling that you have to be aware of wherein the reader is constantly wanting to see something new and fresh. Whenever I write, I’m conscious of this and if my stories ever begin to sound cliché, I immediately switch gears.

What’s your favorite sweet treat?

I love chocolate, mainly dark chocolate for health reasons, but I find it almost impossible to pass up on a good brownie, covered in ice cream and hot fudge.

What would you write in a letter to your teen self?

Self, get it together. Stop wondering or worrying what other people think about you and focus on you being the best you that you can be. Imagine, dream, visualize and establish your dreams. You are unique, and that makes you powerful because what you have to offer the world cannot be duplicated in any form or fashion.

What superpower would you love to have? Why?

If I could turn invisible I would not be a very good boy I’m afraid. Not that I’d steal or break the law. But because I’d probably disappear from my family so that I could get some me time. Then there’d be the occasional sneaking into the movies to screen it before I lay down my hard earned money. After the first thirty minutes, I’d know for sure if it’s a worthy investment. I have to do something a little devious with my powers, why not?

What book is on your nightstand currently?

My Lenovo touchscreen tablet/laptop. I usually fall asleep listening to some YA audiobook or jotting down and idea for a story that comes to me in my sleep.

Hunger Games or Twilight? Why?

That’s easy, Hunger Games. Not that I discount Twilight by any means, I love what Stephanie Myer did with it from a creative standpoint. The characters, the storyline, the vision, all very cool. But there’s something about Suzanne Collins’ writing that is ridiculously amazing. She teleports you into her world within seconds of reading. Her words become a part of you and you are Katnis. She can take a seemingly simple scene and stretch it out to 3-5 pages of glorious substance that makes you sad that it comes to an end .Her dialogues are brilliant and you understand each character inside and out. TO do such a thing from a first person perspective from a writer’s standpoint is incredible.

Favorite TV show from your childhood?

The Cosby show….I know, shameless Uncle plug, but really. Who didn’t love The Cosby Show. In a day and age where reality television sells more on sex and filth, it was nice to recall how Bill had a knack for making you fall in love with simple family issues that we all live with on a day to day basis. Comedy is the best medicine for most woes. Yet, nowadays, we turn other things to medicate. Simple television, like reading, leaves an opportunity for you to use your own mind.

Sum up your book for Twitter: 140 characters or less.

A desperate struggle for identity, built on perseverance, love and faith. Action packed, character driven storytelling.

You’re stranded on a desert island—which character from your book do you want with you? Why?

I’m bringing Francis with me. He slowly became one of my favorite characters, although admittedly, Ziv is probably my alto ego. Francis is cool, slick, and tough as nails while dripping with endless ‘swag’. Plus, I have a feeling that he’d easily figure out how to live on a deserted island and still manage a decent hair style. LOL.

Create an ice cream flavor. What’s it called?

Tootsie roll, Irish cream. I want to love Tootsie rolls, but it’s something about the after taste that kills it for me. If I were to add one of my favorite flavors, like cream soda and Irish cream, I think that would kill the after taste and completely make it amazing. I’d also have to add some pecans to it, being from Georgia!

You’ve just won a million dollars and you’re not allowed to save any of it. What do you spend it on?

Marketing my books, retirement and babysitting. You can never have enough of either when you are trying to create an empire of good stories.

Who was your teenaged crush? Why?

And still is, Jessica Alba. I love her on Dark Angel. *sigh*

The School of Ministry
The Windgate
Book 1
Braxton A Cosby

Genre: YA Paranormal
Publisher: Keith Publications
Number of pages: 367

Book Description:

TO CHOOSE, IS FATE!

A young man named Ziv struggles to find his place in life after both of his parents are murdered. Orphaned and alone by the age of six, he bounces in and out of foster homes hopeless and afraid, wondering if he will ever find a path to happiness. He resolves to accept a life of depravity, until one day he discovers he possesses the gift of sight: to see creatures from the afterlife, but not angels...demons!

Ziv is recruited by The School of Ministry, a secret society that promises to help him find his best friend Stephanie, who has gone missing. But there is one catch: he must agree to join them in their quest to eradicate evil and protect the weak. Ziv learns that he is a "Conduit," which allows him to cross over into the spirit world and transcend time itself.

When he is partnered with two other young men who have similar gifts, the unlikely trio is trained in the mastery of weapons and the art of Shouting, during treacherous challenges of the tortuous Quad in preparation for their mission: to secure the Windgate. Ziv becomes entrenched in a quest of identity, love, and will, until he comes face to face with pure evil itself--Akabod, the spiritual prodigal son to the School of Ministry and a master of talents.

Book Trailer: http://youtu.be/jIuB6zXCnY4

Now, enjoy an excerpt:

It's Miss Evans!

I approach the tank and investigate it, looking for signs of movement from Miss Evans. She floats lifelessly in the water. Her hair flows, carried by the waves and her face appears angelic. I notice the softness of her eyelids and the elegant curve of her mouth as she floats. But the beautiful view is interrupted by a dramatic jolt of her body as her eyes open and a cluster of bubbles escape her mouth and nose. She stares at me and thrashes, eyes bloodshot as she slaps at the glass. I gaze back at her powerless, examining the tank for locks or levers; some way to release her from the watery prison.

I'm helpless as she continues to struggle for air. Then, an image flickers from the corner of my eye as a side door opens and Maxwell walks out, holding a staff of his own.

"Maxwell," I plead. "It's Miss Evans. Please help her!"

He shakes his head and lifts his staff in his hands, twirling it in a circle as he begins to slowly walk sideways, circling me like a predator, encasing me in a hedge of danger.

"Hold your ground. Make a choice: fight or flight," Maxwell bellows.

Miss Evans' banging on the glass behind me blends with the pounding of my heart. I lift my staff and spread my feet, turning my attention to Maxwell. As much as I'm afraid for my own safety, I find it impossible not to focus on Miss Evans. Her muffled scream comes from the tank and I look away from Maxwell to check on her. Her hands clutch her neck. Her face is bright red with a tinge of blue around her lips.

"No," I scream, stepping back away from the tank.

Raising my staff above my head, I crank back and rip it down, slamming it into the side of the tank, as I yell. The water explodes from the crack in the tank and glass shards crash to the floor below. I swing once more and this time the entire tank shatters, launching Miss Evans into the air toward me. I catch her in my arms and the force of the water propels us backward onto the floor. She coughs, gasping for air. I hold her in my arms and caress her head. Her sobbing brittles me and I'm relieved to see her skin color returning to its natural tanned shade.

We're here, an odd place, an unfamiliar place. But as I hold her delicately in my arms, it makes me feel like I'm heading back home. Not the place where I live now, but the place where I used to live, when mom and dad were still alive. The way she rests in my arms beckons me to a time when I used to hold my kitten, Priceless. She'd climb into my lap during the thunder storms. I was her comforter. Priceless would purr when I did it. And now, so many years later, I find myself feeling the same way as I hold Miss Evans. Her soft body pressing into my skin—warming me—calls me to hug her even closer with each passing second. The times when I needed someone to hold me reflect in my mind like a mirror as I stare at her. Her chest rises as her heart beat quickens, mixing evenly with her breaths. As warmth returns to her body, a subtle tremor comes over her; like a purr.

I can't resist. I have to do it. I must do it. I hug deeply, ignoring the senseless urge to pull away.

"Bravo!" praises Maxwell, exiting the room as the lights come back on.

Miss Evans resting in my arms and I comfort her, caressing her hair. She finally looks up at me and mouths, "Thank you."

About the Author:

A graduate of the University of Miami, Cosby earned his bachelors, masters and doctorate in physical therapy. He also is certified by the American Physical Therapists and is a Certified Sports Nutritionist.

And now he’s getting you in shape. “I feel that God has given me a calling to help people,” said Cosby. It was through his own injury that taught Cosby about “getting people back to their prior level of function.” He said he want to motivate “people to stay on the course” so they can meet their own individual goals.

Cosby is a personal trainer, nutritionist and physical therapist and is using his talents and knowledge to help bring attention to the health issues and disparities such as heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure.

He was the featured keynote speaker at the 2012 Atlanta CARES STEMFest for Children and Young Adults event. He also was a presenter for Mercer College School of Medicine and the Louisiana Medical Society’s Focus on Exercise and Fitness. He has partnered with Emory University as a clinical instructor and worked with a major rehabilitation company in geriatrics.

The host of a weekly radio show – Ask the Fat Doctors, Cosby also is an award-winning author and has been seen on CBS, Fox and Atlanta Live. He’s teamed up with retired offensive lineman and NFL analyst Jamie Dukes to create a workout video for men called Chachersize (C_4).

Ask the Fat Doctors is where Cosby, Dukes and radio personality Tee Foxx where they cover a variety of topics from current events to obesity to disease prevention. Cosby also shares tips on how to lose pounds.

Cosby’s goal is to share information on how to create healthy habits and how they can counteract serious health ailments. His articles can be found in “OMTimes Magazine” and “Skinny Limits”. Cosby also posted regular workout tips on his YouTube page.

As the nephew of actor and comedian Bill Cosby, Dr. Braxton A. Cosby has charted his own path, but embodies his uncle’s creativity and vision for a healthier America. “Of course” he was an influence, the younger Cosby said. “He taught me how to develop a passion for what you do.”

And Dr. Braxton A. Cosby has a passion for fitness.

Find me online at:

@Cosbykid_fatdoc

www.facebook.com/DrBraxtonCosby

www.cosbyscorner.com

www.braxtoncosby.com

www.theschoolofminsitry.com

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