This week's Spotlight Author is Diane Haynes

Diane has lived in Massachusetts all her life where early on, her artistic talents were fostered, though her skills as an "excellent report writer" were often noted in previous employment.

On her brother Rick's birthday, November 16, 2004, seven months after his death, she woke from an amazing dream which would not fade. She outlined the dream, made a few quick notes and days later produced a 12 page short story. After deciding her story was interesting but incomplete, she began writing her first novel, using her dream as its climax. She now believes the dream to be a 'Spirit Gift,' sent by her brother.Diane continues to reside in Central MA with her husband and a very naughty Basset Hound named Basil and his new adopted sister-Basset, Ruby, both of whom cleverly wreak havoc on the Haynes' formerly well-ordered lives. She spends her time writing, reading books about writing, talking about writing, painting with watercolors, antiqueing and attempting to train a very reluctant Basil and a willing, but highly comedic Ruby.

Haley Miller never had a boyfriend but, when on summer vacation, she meets handsome and charismatic Micah, great-nephew of her friend Gisele, she finds she can think of nothing else.
After a rare earthquake, Gisele's enchanted forest has developed 'rifts,' long gashes in the earth which must be healed to preserve the forest and its magical beings.
Because they lack magical training, Haley, her twin Lacey and their friend, Taylor are forbidden from assisting in the grim task. Their departure is noted with regret by Gisele and Micah, though a smile appears on the beautiful face of Gisele's other helper, Micah's distant cousin, Selena.
Riding to the lake minutes later, Haley is lured into the forest and, assisted by the other two, somehow manages to heal a minor rift. Buoyed by their victory, they race to aid Gisele, whose own tools have proven ineffective, only to be met with open contempt from Selena.
Micah's growing interest in Haley and her newly discovered Gifts, incites sharp dissention, which provokes a dangerous betrayal--leading to repercussions for all.

Coming soon

The Second Installment of the Forest Magic series...

During a winter visit to Bidwell, MA., Haley Miller discovers a closely guarded secret held by her mentor, Gisele. She and her twin sister, Lacey, attempt to change their elderly friend's fate, but despite their good intentions, things go badly awry. When a portal is accidentally opened, malevolent creatures invade the enchanted forest which lies under four feet of snow.

Sirocco is a 62 page, 99 cent e-book follow-up to RIFT HEALER, due out on December 4

Author Interview

What inspired you to write your first book?

I had a dream on my brother's birthday seven months after his death. I wrote a short story, then expanded it.

How did you come up with the titles of each book ?

Each of my books in the Forest Magic series will be largely one character's story & each book is named for that character.

Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?

At first I was happy to write an entertaining story, but now I realize my stories favor a 'Good vs. Evil' scenario.

Are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?

I wish. Unlike real life, my books are pure fantasy.

What books have most influenced your life most?

The Kitchen Witch, The Sookie Stackhouse series, The Harry Potter series, Twilight...

If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?

Beat-selling Author, Annette Blair who lives in Rhode Island is my friend, cheerleader, teacher and mentor. She is a wonderful person who 'gives back' in the best sense of the word.

What book are you reading now?

None. I'm working on the next book in the series, Necromancer, and I don't like to read anyone else's words when I'm writing.

What are your current projects?

I just finished a novella, Sirocco, which is to be a 'bridge' between Rift Healer and Necromancer.

If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your books ?

I think every writer would try to write a better story and catch all the errors.

Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

Creating a workable, challenging and realistic plot. I have a couple of creative, quirky friends who offer up strange scenarios. Sometimes they work.

What was the hardest part of writing your book?

Editing, without a doubt. Half the time I love my editors, the rest of the time I want to hurt them.

Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it?

Yes, I discovered that maybe I can actually write. Before this book, I thought I only wrote crap. (It might still be crap, I don't know.)

Do you have any advice for other writers?

Keep writing, even if you think it's crap. You get better with practice.

Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?

You cannot possibly imagine how much I appreciate you.

What would you do in a zombie apocalypse?

Suspense kills me. I'd probably just shoot myself.

If you could be any paranormal creature what would you be and why?

As described in Rift Healer, a Terratress--they're so beautiful, truly magical and lethal.

Fav Movie?

HP, Twilight, Princess Bride.

Fav food and drink?

Creme de Cocao Sombreros and heavily buttered popcorn. Oh, and lobster.

This Week's Spotlight Author is Melissa Darby

 

Melissa Darby grew up in the small town of Atwater, Ca. She began writing poetry at the age of 15. Finding inspiration from heartbreak and love. The free verse poetry that she discovered, helped her get through some of the toughest times. In 2006, She had an urge to write a story. One based on the town she grew up in and the friends she had. A Teenage Life was published in May of 2007. A Grown Up Life, followed shortly after in March of 2009. Unfortunately, the publisher had not given her an editor. Even with that happening, those who read her books, really loved the story.

Just recently she had two free verse poetry books published. In the Mirror and Undone. The collection of poems span from 2008 to present. They are a reflection of her and she hopes that her words can help. She is always working on something new. From Zombie slayers to an Empath just trying to get through high school. Her imagination never ends.

Melissa's Works

In The Mirror

The Girl

I'm the girl they want But they never want to keep I'm left standing cold The wind rips through my soul I'm the girl they don't think twice to leave behind My tears become icicles an empty heart I walk through the icy waters Waiting for the warmth Lingering words Hurtful light I'm the girl they want But never want to keep They never put up a fight I've been bruised while they walk off without a scratch Or an honest goodbye I'm left wading in all their lies

 

 

 

____________________________________________________

 

Undone

 

 Why Can’t I Stay?

I see the mountains

The rolling hills in the distance

I want to break free

Run within the trees

I’ am afraid of my existence

The flowers bloom

I lay in the open field

I smell the sweet fragrance

That surrounds their day

Why can’t I stay?

I no longer want to worry

I no longer want to be afraid

The stars beckon for my attention

The moon sits lonely in the distance

Will I be able to resist it?

The coldness of the night

Burns me deep inside

I’m unable to fight the

Numbness that has been given to me

I want to break free

 

 

 

 

 

Author Interview

 

 

 

What inspired you to write your first book?


My very first book was called, A Teenage Life. I was thinking about when I was a teenager. The town I grew up, the friends that I had, and my experiences. So I just thought to myself, I’m going to write a book! And I did. It took 6 months to write and The sequel, A Grown Up Life took a whole year.

How did you come up with the titles of each book?


With my current books that have been published. They are Poetry books, free verse. I came up with In The Mirror based on a poem I wrote. Poetry is always a reflection of the writer. So I thought In The Mirror was perfect. For Undone, It is also a title of one of the poems. But I also saw it as these are all the poems that didn’t make it to my first poetry book.

Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?


My poetry is very personal. All the emotions and the things that I have experienced through out my life. I hope that when someone reads my poetry that they can relateand I hope that it can help.

What books have most influenced your life most?

I’ve always loved reading since I was a child. The book that really influenced me was the R.L. Stine Fear Street series. I had every book and I looked forward going to the bookstore. I regret to this day, giving those books away.

If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?


Sylvia Plath was an amazing writer. I remember when I was a teenager walking the halls of my high school reading her books.

What book are you reading now?


I was reading Richelle Meads, Georgina Kinkade Series. I also loved her Vampire Academy Series. I' am just starting the 5th book in The Mortal Instrument Series by Cassandra Clare. Amazing!

What are your current projects?


I always have current projects coming to mind. I had started a Zombie book. I love Zombies and I find them very interesting. I’m on Chapter 4, Hopefully I can be less distracted and finish. The working title is, Zombie Slayers.

If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your books ?


I wouldn’t change anything. I think the only thing I would change is the publishing company for my first two books. I never received an editor and they were published that way. Which, I think as a writer it’s embarrassing for someone to see errors. But those who did read it, enjoyed it despite the errors.

Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?


The earliest I remember, Is in Junior high and we had to write a short story. I wrote a story and my teacher submitted it to a contest. I had actually won a ribbon and everything. I didn’t really start writing, writing till around the age of 15. I found that poetry really helped deal with all those feelings that you rarely understand at that age

Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?


With my books, other then poetry. The most challenging is getting past Chapter 4. I’ve had a very hard time staying focused.

What was the hardest part of writing your book?

Both poetry books weren’t hard to write. I had already had a huge collection and just put them in order,


What would you do in a zombie apocalypse?


Such an awesome question. I love the whole Idea of Zombies. But I would probably be terrified. I would probably be one of the first to die.

If you could be any paranormal creature what would you be and why?


Hmmm.. Paranormal creature.. I think it would be a Vampire. I think it would be fun.

Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?

I just hope that my words can touch someone. Words are so powerful. I feel that if you can really get into a book or a poem. That you have that emotional connection, it’s one of the best feelings in the world. I hope that my writing can do that for someone

Fav Movie ?


My favorite movie of all time is Buffy The Vampire Slayer. When I was a kid I had it on VHS and watched it so much I had to get a new one. I also am a huge fan of the TV Show. I just think in general, Joss Whedon is a genius.

Fav band right now ?


Recently I found Lissie, she has such an amazing voice. It’s a voice that’s so inspiring to me.

Fav food and drink ?

Right now coffee is my favorite drink. I didn’t get to really have caffeine while I was pregnant. So now I just want it every day. Food it varies, But I love pasta. I also love potatoes.

 

 

 

This week's Spotlight Author is Ms. Kharisma Rhayne

 

Kharisma Rhayne

 

Ten years ago, Kharisma traded in snow, ice and tornadoes for sun, heat, sand and mountains. She now lives in beautiful Arizona with her husband, 4 kids & 9 rescue dogs and 5 goats. Now, in her eleventh year in Arizona, she is once again braving new terrain and has moved up into the White Mountains. This will be the first year that she will see freezing temperatures and snow. Her love for nature and animals is well known and she gets to indulge it in her new home with wolves, coyotes, snakes, and various other creatures as her nearest neighbors. Living in the middle of nowhere is something she wouldn’t change for the world.

 

Dabbling in writing through Junior High and High School, Kharisma officially got her start writing LGBT, BDSM and erotica. Never one to slow down, she started writing several additional genres including crime, medical, historical and paranormal. Her latest adventure is a dark horror. When you pick up one of her books, she wants you to walk away turned on and inspired! Come take a stroll into Kharisma’s worlds of ecstasy, love, adventure and fear.

Kharisma Rhayne's Books

 

Coming soon from Kharisma Rhayne

 

 

See more at Kharisma Rhayne

 

 

 

Author Interview

 

What inspired you to write your first book?

It was honestly an accident. I just love to write and would always rewrite concepts that I thought I could do better (which comes out more in my longer books).
How did you come up with the titles of each book ? Titles are hit and miss with me. Sometimes I have the title instantly, other times I have 3/4 of the book written and still struggle with something to call it. I try to keep in mind that there could be other books titled closely and also make it something that grabs attention and the overall idea of what the book is about.

Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?

Sometimes. But mostly I just want the reader to escape "real life" for a bit and visit the place I'm taking them too.

Are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life? Sometimes, but not too much. I used to always say absolutely no, but then the more I thoguth on it, the more I realized exactly how impossible that was to be true.

What books have most influenced your life most?

I love the classics...give me Gone With the Wind, War & Peace, The Brothers Karamazov

If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?

Stephen King or Monica McCarty

What book are you reading now?

I just finished up a Highlander romance by Donna Grant last night.

Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?

Honestly, I don't really know who most of the new authors are. I think in terms of "new to me" -- my latest is Mary Wine.

What are your current projects?

Oh I have so many. I'm continuing with book 3 of my Living Deadly Series, I have a Time Travel Highlander Historical Romance Serial - Highlander Mine - that will start being released January 1, I'm also working on Pieces of You that I know more than a couple of people are waiting on the final product. There's also my Bound by Tempation Series, Bound by Seduction Series, A Viking Series, a BDSM Series and more. I defintily have been staying busy.

If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your books ?

No, I don't think so. I'm pretty happy with the direction most are taken since I pretty much only write in series format.

Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?

I'm really not sure. I just laways loved to read in bed at night, even as a kid. When I got in highschool, even though I was active in sports, I was kind of the closet nerd that always had a book in hand. So, I guess, I just thought I could do it too.

Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

Sometimes I want to tell too much. I want readers to read the book and see what I see in my head as I write. So, I can be a little too wordy sometimes. The other challenge is simply finishing projects. I can have 5 or so ideas pop into my head for other stories...so getting one completely off my plate can be difficult sometimes.

What was the hardest part of writing your book? Ending it. Seriously. I hate leaving my characters.

Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it?

I think I learn a little something with each book. Sometimes it's as simple as knowing I've used a certain word too much. But I always try to take something away....improve my writing, know my characters better for the next book....

Do you have any advice for other writers? Just keep writing. Some authors get (I don't want to say lucky, but it seems to be the only word I can put here) lucky and get noticed quickly. The rest of us have to realize it's a long haul....and we just have to keep going.

Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?

I love all my readers and I've had so much fun getting to know a number of them in chats and on facebook and via email. It make take me awhile to respond...but I'm always willing to chat

What would you do in a zombie apocalypse?

Knowing me I'd probably try to capture them as pets so I could study them and write a real life experinece book about them.

If you could be any paranormal creature what would you be and why?

I think I'd want to be a pixie with a pet hellhound. All the others don't seem quite as femine...so, pixie it is....but, can't be too girly, so you need the pet hellhound.

Fav Movie ?

Troy
Fav band right now ?

Black Stone Cherry
Fav food and drink ?

Potatoes and Pasta....Pepsi and Starbucks Mocha Fraps

 

 

 

This week's Spotlight Author is Toi Thomas

A self-proclaimed techie and foodie, Toinette a.k.a. Toi Thomas was born in Texas, but considers Virginia to be her home. As a young child growing up in Dallas, Toi had a strong interest in reading fiction and loved to watch movies. Even today, many of Toi’s friends come to her for the answers to movie trivia. While working with computers and cooking lavish meals have become reoccurring pastimes for the Virginia Beach teacher’s assistant, Toi has now decided to rekindle her romance with creative writing by authoring her first book; a passion she has decided to share with the world.

Eternal Curse: Giovanni's Angel

A wealthy doctor in search of a purpose and an isolated outcast searching for acceptance, meet online and discover that they may be just what the other has been looking for. Mira’s a woman who believes in what she knows and Giovanni’s a man who knows better than to think he truly knows anything. When Mira decides to meet Giovanni face to face, for the first time, at his secluded country home, their journey truly begins. Will the doctor and the outcast be able to stand strong against all the powers of heaven and hell to pursue their ultimate purpose?

"Toi Thomas presents an uplifting, vivid and well-crafted paranormal romance that is so very unlike anything that I have previously read. " ~Bex 'n' Books's review 

40 Days and Nights of Eternal Curse

The Official Companion Guide to Eternal Curse Giovanni's Angel

If you love extra features and behind-the-scenes footage of your favorite movies, then you will love this official companion guide to Eternal Curse: Giovanni’s Angel. 40 Days and Nights of Eternal Curse breaks down the first installment of the Eternal Curse Series with writer’s notes, excerpts, character profiles, outline details, and special tidbits that you won’t find anywhere else. This companion guide isn’t just all info and no fun; this is a fulfilling and interesting read all on its own. At only 70 printed pages, this is an easy and inviting read in any format, and will prompt your mind to wander and wonder of things to come

Author Interview

by Quanie Mitchell

 What is the working title of your book? The title of my published book is Eternal Curse: Giovanni’s Angel.

Where did the idea come from for the book? The idea for this book came from a reoccurring dream about a gray man who turns into an angel, but that’s not the story I wrote.

What genre does your book fall under? It is considered to be fantasy, spiritual fiction, and to some speculative fiction.

Which actors would you choose to play your characters in a movie rendition? That’s a tough question because my main character is so odd. I think I’d have to choose an unknown for the role of Giovanni (the hero). I think I’d pick Naomie Harris to play Mira (love interest) and as for Abraham (the father figure), I might need two actors if I’m going to show him as young and old, but I have no suggestions at the moment.

What is the one-sentence synopsis of your book? A gray man meets a woman online who helps him discover his true purpose in the world, only to find out that he is not of this world.

Will your book be self-published or represented by an agency? I have self-published my book. To learn about this, visit my Info. tab or go to this link https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/236158.

How long did it take you to write the first draft of your manuscript? It took me about a year to write the first draft of my manuscript and another year to work out all the kinks.

What other books would you compare this story to within your genre? Many people have compared the story to an unusual take on the classic Beauty and Beast tale. I agree with that assessment, but also consider my story to a bit prophetic in the sense that it has a character being singled-out as “the one.” Such is the case with stories like the Matrix (the movie) or The Wizard of Oz. In these stories, on character becomes “the one” that will solve all the problems.

Who or What inspired you to write this book? I was inspired to write the book because my mind wouldn’t stop thinking about it until I did.

What else about your book might pique the reader’s interest? This book is part of a 3-4 part series. The second draft of the sequel is complete and an outline with three chapters of the third book is complete. The Eternal Curse Series will travel back and forth through time following the life of Giovanni and will open up a world of angels, demons, and half-breeds. Even the fate of the world may be involved at some point.

Imaginging Dreams

Eternal Curse Wants to Entertain the World

Bites: Ten Tales of Vampires

Bites:Ten Tales of Vampires Anothology

contributing authors Liv Rancourt, Carole Ann Moleti, April Gray, Douglas Kolacki, Debbie Christiana, Lana Bange, Jim Bernheimer, Rayne Hall, Jonathon Broughton, and Pamela Turner

 

Bites is ten different stories written by ten different authors. Each author has taken their own individual views on vampires and created this fun and entertaining anothology.

 

First up:

 

Tangled Dreams

by Liv Rancourt

(mysterious)

 

Choir chick, Allie, meets a mysterious and very handsome man, Roderick, after choir practice one night and after an amusing conversation about the choice of music, the pair agree to a dinner date. Allie's sister Renee imposes herself on their date and so it is that the three go to dinner. Dinner is bizarre, to say the least. After excusing herself to the ladies room, Allie returns to the table to find that both her sister and Roderick are gone. Several hours late, with the help of a waiter from the restaraunt, Allie locates her sister. Renee is sitting on a bench  with a blank star, mumbling. What did Roderick do to Renee to leave her walking like a zombie? That is the question...

 

Reality Bites

by Jim Bernheimer

(fun)

 

Reality Bites is a fun read. Mr. Merrill is now a member of the undead and he wants his life insurance money. Unfortunately, Fundamental Insurance doesn't recognize vampires as being actually dead, since they haven't officially experience death.

 

Night Train

by Rayne Hall

(macabre)

 

Shelley, having just been touring Switzerland, decides to board a train and move on to less rain laden territories. The train is crowded and Shelley has a difficult time finding a sleeping car to occupy for the trip. Once finding a car to sleep in, she settles in for the night. Moments later, the conductor comes around to collect tickets. A polite man, he offers a friendly warning to Shelley about robbers and...vampires. She immediately thinks he's joking, but then other occupants of her car nod in agreement. The conductor continues to explain this is especially a problem in the winter. Right away she starts thinking of ways to get off the train but the next stop isn't until morning. Paralyzed by fear, she climbs into her little space to wait out the night...and to see who didn't make it.

 

Winter Flower

by Jonathon Broughton

(romantic)

Set in London in what I can only guess is early 1900's, Cecelia is anything but the proper lady her mother wishes she was. Old widow Lady Milligan is known for her psychical research and her knack for successfully matching couples. Cecelia's social climbing mother has high hopes that Lady Milligan has chosen Cecelia for a very important match. Cecelia has no desire to marry anyone she doesn't love  and would rather spend her time in the gardens tending to her flowers. Despite her mother's insistence to stop acting like a common gardner, Cecelia persues her love of horticulture.
During her visit with Lady Milligan, Cecelia becomes entranced with Antoine, the Lady's servant. Upon learning of her love for horticulture, Lady Milligan asks Cecelia to accompany Antoine to the library and help him translate the names of the herbs he needs. Almost too excited to contain herself, Cecelia agrees to help Antoine. Once the pair are alone, Cecelia learns of Antoine's true intentions. The match has been made. This story really displays the romantic side of vampires nicely.

It's in your blood
by Pamela Turner
(Goth)
"Emily claimed Goth citizenship, Anna carried a green card"

The two met in college when Anna became curious about the music Emily was listening to. It was in that moment the two became friends and Emily taught Anna everything she needed to know about the Goth subculture. One night, Anna and Emily are preparing to go to a party in a cemetary, though Anna is reluctant. Once they arrive at the party, Anna realizes this is no ordinary party and that she is the guest of honor.

The Land of the Rising Sun
by Debbie Christiana

After a deadly earthquake hits Sendai, Japan, Karl and his search and rescue team go in to look for survivirs that the former search and rescue team couldn't reach. Karl's team has certain advantages over the other team. Moments into the their search, Karl and his partner find  a young woman who has been crushed from the waist down, clinging to life. Karl sits with her while his partner goes for help. In the brief moments alone with the young woman, Karl makes a monumental mistake, one that will cost many people their lives.

The Fledgling Doubt
By Lana Bange

Vampire hunter, Amy Hunt, is tracking a fledgling through the Farrington Subway station when it all goes terribly wrong. The fledgling is killed, leaving behind a gory mess but before he was killed, he managed to bite his victim, only Amy isn't sure about that yet. So, she accompanies the woman to the hospital  and stands vigil until she knows if a change will occur. By the time the whole ordeal is over, the only thing Amy wants to do is leave London.

The Dhampir's Kiss
by Carole Ann Moleti
(revenge)

This is a hard one for me to sum up and review. I can't say I really enjoyed this story. Lord Dhampir Raul recalls the events of the night his mother was killed and he was changed into a vampire, as he stalks Taina. If I am understanding this correctly, Taina is seeking revenge against the vampire and werewolf that attacked her more than a decade ago. Raul plans to silence her either by turning her or killing her. You'll have to read this one and judge for yourself.

Exile
By Amy Grey
(erotic)

Madeleine Jameson, a Vegas showgirl, decides to take a vacation after injuring her leg during a chorus. Laying out poolside at the resort, she meets fellow American, Ricki Shannon who openly admits to her use of gigalos and suggests Madeleine gives it a try. Madeleine, slightly appalled, politely excuses herself and goes about her business. Days blend into weeks and Madeleine is enjoying the "zen-like balance" she has achieved, her bizarre conversation with Ricki already forgotten. One night, while getting ready for bed, a man knocks on her door saying that Ricki sent him. With every fiber of her being, she wants to deny him entrance but something inside her won't let her. Their night together is nothing short of amazing and they agree to meet again for a second time. After their second time together, they both admit to falling in love. Madeleine knows that if there is a third time, she will become one of him, a vampire frozen in time and pain free. The idea of this new kind of life is so appealing that she almost goes thru with it. Almost....

 

This week's Spotlight Author is Christine Hughes

 

 

A former Army Brat, Christine Hughes moved quite often. She spent much of her time losing herself in books and creating stories about many of the people she'd met. Falling in love with literature was easy for her and she  majored in English while attending college in New Jersey. Not sure where her love of reading and writing fit, she became a middle school English teacher. After nine years of teaching others to appreciate literature, she decided to take the plunge and write her first novel. Now at home focusing on making writing her new career, she spends her time creating characters and plot points instead of grading papers.

 

Music has become an integral part of her writing process and without the proper playlist, Hughes find the words don't flow. At least a few times a week she can be found at the local Barnes & Noble with her mac and headphones working on her next novel. Her YA novel Torn will be released by Black Opal Books June 9, 2012.

 

 

With the sudden, mysterious death of her father, Samantha discovers her life isn’t what it seems. Not only isn’t she the normal teenage girl she thought she was, Sam must now take her father’s place in the fight between two groups of fallen angels—the Faithful and the Exiled—in a race to save humanity. In addition to dealing with the devastating betrayal of her friend and her feelings for someone she is forbidden to love, Sam must also fight the growing darkness within her as she struggles to make a choice between fighting alongside the Faithful or succumbing to the temptation of the Exiled. Both sides require sacrifices Sam isn’t sure she can make.

 

KUDOS for Torn

Torn is a paranormal YA thriller, that also nudges at the romantic suspense genre. It’s a good vs. evil with touches of forbidden young love. Our heroine, Samantha, thinks she is a normal human teenage girl—not that any teenage girl can really be called “normal.” But Sam has no reason to suspect that she is anything other than human. Her life revolves around school, her best friend and foster brother, Lucas, and her secret crush on her other foster brother, Ethan. Then her father dies and Sam discovers she is much more than she thought she was. She is supposed to fight for the light against the dark, but the dark side is so very tempting...the book is well-written, the storyline unique, and the plot strong. So whatever age you are, grab a nice cup of tea, a comfy spot on the couch, and enjoy. – Taylor Jones, reviewer

The storyline in Torn is unusual and refreshing. While it’s about the fight between good and evil—a common enough plot—the heroine is born of the dark but determined to fight for the light. She is also confused. She knows she wants to fight for good, but she is very tempted by the darkness within her. As she struggles to make her choice, the plot shifts on us and gives us more than one surprise. I was very impressed by Hughes. Her writing is quite good, her characters refreshing, and the storyline much more sophisticated than is normal for YA. I found myself riveted from the very first page. – Regan Murphy, reviewer

 

Interview with Christine Hughes by Belladonna's Book Corner

 

What inspired you to write your first book?

While I was watching Vampire Diaries (Season 1, last episode - Founder's Day) the song "All I need" by Within Temptation played during a dance with Elena and Damon. As soon as I heard it, images started flashing through my head and I ran to iTunes to download it. I listened to it over and over and built a playlist around it until the images solidified into a coherent storyline. I love shows like Vapire Diaries that have great soundtracks. I'm always finding new songs when I watch tv.

How did you come up with the titles of each book ?

The original title to TORN was Choices but I felt it wasn't strong enough. I was having a conversation with my sister-in-law about the book since she read the manuscript for me and she characterized Samanatha, the lead character, as torn. And VOILA! Epiphany! The book title switched to TORN.

For Three Days of Rain (due out early January 2013), I titled to book after the song that inspired it. If you look on Spotify, search Three Days of Rain by Jason Liberatore and you'll find the words that helped make the book.

 

The sequel to TORN has always had a working title - BETRAYED - but there are way too many books out there with the same title, and many are romance. After discussing it with some author friends, I've since changed the working title to DARKNESS BETRAYED. Hopefully it sticks. We'll see.

Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?

Everyone had two sides to them. There is beauty in despair. If there wasn't, we'd never know what hope was. I also just want them to get out of what they read exactly what they want. When I was teaching, I never understood why blue curtains couldn't just be blue curtains. Why did they have to represent tha main characters call for help? Maybe that's why my college English professor rolled her eyes at me.

Are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?

No. Just ideas I had. I am sure there are many parts of my books people will be able to relate to but as for basing it on reality? Nope. Not brave enough to go there yet. Besides, I'm not all that exciting.
What books have most influenced your life most?

Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury, A Separate Peace by John Knowles, Old Man and the Sea by Hemingway, Romeo and Juliet by Shakespeare, Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher - there are so many! I used to read more than I do now. It's harder now because I don't necessarily want to start retelling stories. I try to keep them as original as my brain will allow. But I love to read. Hell, I read shampoo bottles if there's nothing else there!

If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?

A mentor? Gosh. I don't know. Maybe Cyn Balog since she gave me so much advice and encouragement in the beginning. She's a wonderful person, a creative author and a great friend. Bonnie Hearn Hill is another. When I was contemplating joining Black Opal Books, she and I had a fabulous phone conversation that I will never forget. And lately, Dean Sault has been giving me some good advice.

What book are you reading now?

An ARC of time Assassins by Kyle Hannah (buy it!)

Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?

Since I've become published, a whole new world of authors has been opened. I loved Leslie R. Wright's Basement Level Five, David Perlmutter's Wrong Place, Wrong Time, and am very enamored with Kyle Hannah's Time Assassins.

What are your current projects?
Three Days of Rain is a Women's Fiction that should be released in early 2013 and I am almost finished writing the sequel to TORN, DARKNESS BETRAYED. After that I have quite a few ideas to choose from.

If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your books ?
TORN is in 1st person and I love it that way but I can't help but think how much more in depth I could have gone were it in 3rd. I could've picked apart Sebastian's character more, gotten into his head. That would have been fun. There is, of course, always the option of writing Sebastian's story. We'll see.

Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?

I don't remember. I've loved writing since I can remember. I was always writing stories - page after page of worlds and characters. I wrote angsty poetry most of my teen and college life. Who knew? Men and women my age were able to write about being "emo" before "emo" was a thing...

Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
Editing! I hate deleting anything but it's getting easier. I have a great group of editors at Black Opal Books who understand my mindset and have only worked to make my manuscripts tighter, stronger.

What was the hardest part of writing your book?

For TORN, the ending. I couldn't figure out how to close it out. For Three Days of Rain, the sex scenes made me blush. I didn't want it to sound corny. I did all I could to keep the word "member" out of it!

Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it?
To never give up. I realized not everyone will love what I write and that's ok. I've read many books I didn't care for. It's all ok. As long as I stay true to myself when I write, that's all I can ask for.

Do you have any advice for other writers?

Same as above - never give up. Take criticism gracefully. Take praise gracefully as well. I've met a lot of writer's over the past year or so and I have to tell you, most are amazing - helpful, kind, encouraging - but there are some that make me nuts. Don't be the one to make everyone nuts. Believe in yourself and believe in your writing but know there ARE people out there who've been around the block and CAN help. DOn't turn away because you don't agree. Listen. Be gracious. AND get a set of kick ass beta readers that aren't afraid to tell you what they really think :)

Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?

Just keep reading. If you like an author, say so. If you like a book, write a review. Word of mouth sells more books these days than any advertising.

What would you do in a zombie apocalypse?

Run like hell. I am just started to get into zombies. My main thing is, they walk everywhere. Why can't people just run the hell away? Maybe I should read more zombies...

If you could be any paranormal creature what would you be and why?

Vampire. Ann Rice made them sexy.

Fav Movie ?

So many! Fave comedy - Zoolander (Mer-Man!) but I love all John Hughes films and will stop what I am doing to watch any one of them!

Fav band right now ?

30 Seconds to Mars. Jared Leto? Umm, yes please.

Fav food and drink ?

Nothing beats a good cheeseburger and a beer in the summer. Other than that, coffee, Earl Grey Tea and lime flavored seltzer water. And Pizza. Good thing I live in a place where good pizza is the norm. I can't take cardboard and ketchup.

 

 

 

Belladonna's Book Corner

For several weeks, a fellow reviewer and I have been discussing my joining her page over at Belladonna's Book Corner and helping her admin from this part of the globe. With her being in Australia and me being in the States, we are hoping that this joint effort will reach more people. If you are reading this, then you, too, have a love for literature. Indie authors are emerging from every crevice of this world and Tlani and I hope to bring well-deserved recognition to these new, talented and wonderfully creative authors. So come visit us over in The Corner where new and exciting things are about to happen. As we get more authors involved, we'll be offering giveaways and prizes as well as sharing our reviews on new books. See you in The Corner!

~Raven

The Last Resort
by Toy Davis

Uptight, snobby, and entitled, Hailey, thinks she's meeting her newest boyfriend, Flow, for a romantic weekend at his family's cabin in the woods. Upon her arrival, Hailey is greeted not only by Flow, but by several of his friends, none of which care for Hailey in the least. The others make no secret of their distaste for Hailey and she makes no secret of her distaste for them as well. After the first round of insults have been dished out, the group settle in for some pot smoking, munchies and ghost stories. Among the stories is the one about the very cabin they are currently occupying. Having come to be known as "The Last Resort", rumor has it that five families were all murdered in the cabin, and though it's been years, it is believed that the killer is still on the loose.

Laughing off the rumors as mere legend, the group plays a couple of typical slumber party type games, though this is anything but a teenage slumber party. They decide on a more adult version of "Truth or Dare" and "Hide and Go Get it" and the games begin. Truth or Dare becomes a little heated when it is revealed that one person is gay. one has abused prescription drugs, and the most surprising, Flow wouldn't "fuck Hailey even if by doing so would save his life". It takes everything inside Hailey not to break down and show just how hurt she is by Flow's revelation. When everyone decides that Truth or Dare has become boring, Hailey decides to go to bed and the rest of the group decide to play "Hide and Go Get It", a more adult version of Hide and Go Seek. This is when things start to become real and legend is not just legend anymore.

The Last Resort is a classic teenage thriller, though the characters are anything but children. I really only have one problem with this story. The author does not always make clear who is speaking at t he time. When the whole group is together, it is often unclear as to who the dialogue is coming from.

That being said, this is a good story. If the dialogue was more clear, I think this could be a really great story. The plot itself is entertaining and if you don't find the use of the word Fag offensive or if you can look past it for the sake of enjoying a good story, the go grab a copy and enjoy.

Diary of the Fag Hags

Diary of the Fag Hags 
by Toy Davis



Diary of the Fag Hags is just that, diary entries by self-proclaimed fag hags Darnisa, Jasmine, and Faye. I'm assuming these diary entries are fictitious in nature, but regardless if they are fiction or not, they are very amusing. The diary entries include lots of partying, alcohol, and self-imposed drama. Fag Hags have always amused me and the diary entries confirm what we already know; they are nothing short of pure entertainment.