Category Archives: Book Tour
VBT – HAUNTING IN OLD TAILEM
HAUNTING IN OLD TAILEM
by Janice Tremayne
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GENRE: Supernatural suspense, horror
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BLURB:
An Australian Ghost town. A resident demon and a local Shaman. A confrontation with evil awaits.
Clarisse realizes that running from evil is not a bad idea until you figure out you can’t hide. When some ghosts get tired of hanging around, they latch onto you. At the centre of the war on evil is a historic Church that carries dark secrets within its walls. After she meets with the local Shaman, Clarisse discovers secrets with evil consequences by digging too deep into the town’s past. When matters become complicated, she visits a circus of young performers on the outskirts of town triggering unexpected paranormal events and unleashing memories of a one-hundred-year curse. After being caught in the crossfire of a battle for evil supremacy, Clarisse confronts Little Charlie as he rallies the town’s ghosts into an impeccable evil stronghold.
Can the local Shaman and townsfolk rally in her quest to defeat the evil incarnate or will the town succumb to Little Charlie and his evil crew?
Haunting in Old Tailem is the third book of the Haunting Clarisse Series. If you like spine-tingling, chilling, creepy and spooky supernatural thrillers, then you will love this story by 2020 USA Readers’ Favorite International Book Awards Finalist in Supernatural Fiction, Janice Tremayne.
Pick up your copy today and follow Clarisse through her battles with evil!
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EXCERPT
He hung with the rope around his neck, his tongue sticking out with a red-starved oxygen face. At the same time, he was smiling as though he was only having fun. Death was a reenactment that he had become accustomed to, to the point he thought it funny; a way of horrifying others and making them pay attention. He had a young mind—innocent and conditioned to get the attention of others. Little Charlie didn’t know whether he was dead or alive; far too young to understand. As far as he was concerned, tying a loop around his neck, jumping, and choking to death made him realize he felt no pain. He could do it over and over again.
Clarisse knew from her encounter in Hartley that Little Charlie was an attention seeker and someone who liked to cling onto you. That could explain how he had ended up in Old Tailem Town. Running away from evil might seem like a good idea at the time, but you could not hide.
“Come over here, Little Charlie. There is nothing to be afraid of,” she said.
He replied with a cheeky grin on his boyish face. His mousy brown hair thrown from side to side, he signaled with his right index finger, waving it left to right many times.
“Nuh-uh,” he mimed, his way of saying no.
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AUTHOR Bio and Links:
Janice Tremayne is an Amazon bestselling and award-winning ghost and supernatural writer. Janice is a finalist in the Readers’ Favorite 2020 International Book Awards in Fiction-Supernatural.
She is an emerging Australian author who lives with her family in Melbourne. Her recent publication, Haunting in Hartley, reached number one on the Amazon kindle ranking for Occult, Supernatural, and Ghosts and Haunted Houses categories, for hot new releases and bestsellers.
Janice is well-versed in her cultural superstitions and how they influence daily life and customs. She has developed a passion and style for writing ghost and supernatural novels for new adult readers.
The concept of writing the Haunting Clarisse series was spawned over a cup of coffee many years ago, and she has not looked back since. Her books contain heart-thumping, bone-chilling, and thought-provoking ghost and paranormal experiences that deliver a new twist to every tale.
www.janicetremayne.com.au
author@janicetremayne.com
https://www.facebook.com/hauntingclarisse
Buy the series: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08HGPL2G5
Buy Haunting in Old Tailem: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08B524JNW
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RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY
THE AUTHOR WILL BE GIVING AWAY:
A print copy of the book to a randomly drawn winner
Enter to win a print copy of the book – a Rafflecopter giveaway
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Q&A With …
Tell us about you as a person.
So, it here comes—Janice Tremayne is my pen name. I write under the pen name of Janice Tremayne to separate my writing from my business life. In real life, I am married to my beautiful wife and two children. I am Australian and live in Melbourne. Yes, I am a male!
If you could hang out with one famous person for one day, who would it be and why?
I would like to spend a day with Stephen King and pick his brains about writing. Because I am a fan of his writing, I would like to get his perspective on what makes a great story and writing technique—learn more about the craft.
What’s the story behind your latest book?
My latest series is the Zack Bolder Supernatural Thrillers. Books one and two are launched, and I am writing book three. The story has the hallmark of everything I enjoy writing—a unique storyline, supernatural elements, thriller and suspense and characters that grow on you. There is the banter between the characters that also makes the story enjoyable. They are all based on real Australian ghost towns for the setting.
What is your writing process?
I plan my writing in advance from a thought process. I know what I am going to write about. Most of my ideas come from walking around the lake on a sunny day—when the endorphins kick in. I like to listen to music that helps stimulate my senses and creativity and set the mood. So, you will often see me writing with my headset on or talking to myself when walking around the like—people must think I’m mad!
Tell us about your main character.
In the Zack Bolder series, the main character is a priest turned parapsychologist—yes, it’s a mouthful but also intriguing. Zack Bolder is assigned to the police force to help solve supernatural murders. He is young, good looking and you would never think of him as a priest if you walked past him along the road. He can reach the dead and spirits (Reacher or lightworker).
If your book was to be turned into a movie, who would play the lead role and why.
It would have to be the Australian actor Chris Hemsworth. He has the right looks and age. I also believe he has the skills to portray a character like Zack Bolder convincingly with all his character’s peculiarities.
What are you working on next?
I’m working on book three of the Zack Bolder series—Guilt-Edged. It’s a hell of a story, and I take the protagonist and antagonist to another level. However, in another Australian ghost town and an unsolved murder, this demon screws with your head and is not your typical poltergeist. I’m having fun writing it!
What advice do you have for other writers who want to get the word out about their book?
Learn as much as you can about book marketing—its essential. Your first book will not be your best, and it won’t be until you write book two or three that you will start to put together some great stuff. Try not to over market the first book but built a strategy around two or three books.
What is your favorite book on your shelf right now?
Stephen King-The Stand
Do you have any special/extraordinary talents?
I have a very imaginative and creative mind. I can conjure up stories that readers find refreshing and different. It helps me with my branding and providing a point of difference.
You are given the choice of one super power. What super power would you have and why?
To be invincible like a fly on the wall!
List 5 things on your bucket list:
- To write a best seller.
- To give something back to the community through charity
- Changing careers successfully (I don’t want to work in a corporate job anymore)
- Travel to Antarctica
- Rediscover my faith and be humble.
Any final thoughts?
We don’t write for the money but for the love of the craft. When I get messages from readers halfway around the world in small towns I have not heard before—I pinch myself. I can’t think of many jobs in life that enable you to reach people in such away. And for that short time that they engaged in your writing and their precious time to your story—it’s a privilege.
VBT – THE STRONG WITHIN US
The Strong Within Us
by J. A. Boulet
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GENRE: Historical Fiction
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BLURB:
A struggle. A war. The past. Would you recover?
Nathan Olason picks up the pieces of his life in 1893 and becomes a devoted father and grandfather. Except something from his past is holding him back.
His grandson, Mike grows up in a loving family with Nath almost raising him as his own. Mike develops a passion for hunting and guns, while his family supports him with trepid hearts as WWI looms.
Nath feels helpless to stop this dangerous chain of events, as Mike announces that he is joining the Great War. Armed and deadly, Mike hones his marksmanship skills to a perfection not seen in any other soldier. He is taken on a wild ride of following his passions, courage and gruesome fighting, arriving at Vimy Ridge, France for the fight of his life.
Nath fearing the worst, flees to a place that he thought was his salvation; an old weathered cottage that holds the key to his future.
Follow in the footsteps of heroes.
Be vulnerable.
Would you recover?
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EXCERPT
She was a stunning woman with beautiful long black hair, shockingly rare blue eyes and tanned skin. She was captivating and absolutely gorgeous. Ivan thought that he didn’t have a chance until he found out that she lived down by the pier with her father. He bought fish from her father regularly, trading vegetables and grains some days. Every time Ivan visited the large fishery at the pier, he was always scanning the crowd for the beautiful blue-eyed fisherman girl. He found out that she was almost the same age as himself; she was 18, and he was 19. How she had managed to remain single was something beyond his stretch of knowledge. Maybe she was too beautiful, he thought. No man was courageous enough to approach her. Until this day, he thought.
Ivan straightened his tie and proceeded to the fishery. He ran his fingers through his hair, adjusting his cowlick. The pesky tuft of hair at his crown annoyed him greatly. It seemed to have a mind of its own, especially in tense situations; it would stick up like a fork in a haystack. Otherwise, he thought that he was quite a handsome fellow, standing at six feet tall, slim but fit, with dark blonde hair, a young uneven beard and captivating green eyes. Women looked at him often, so he knew that he was attractive, but he still felt unsure of himself some days, especially around stunning women like her. Ivan pulled the door to the fishery open, unconsciously licking his hand and smoothing down the cowlick again as he stepped inside.
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AUTHOR Bio and Links:
J. A. Boulet is the passionate author of The Olason Chronicles, a historical saga of war, courage, love and strength. The Strong Within Us Book 2 was released on Amazon November 11, 2020. J. A. Boulet was born and raised in Western Canada as a first generation Canadian from European descent. Her father was enlisted with the Hungarian military and fought bravely during the Hungarian Revolution, changing sides to stand up for what he believed in. He was granted asylum in Canada and built his family here.
J. A. Boulet was born many years later, raised with strong morals and values, which she stands behind to this day. She started writing poetry at the age of five and progressed to short stories and novels. She has a keen interest in settlers, healing, family bonds and military history. J. A. Boulet writes with a spine-tingling realism like none other, grabbing your emotions and refusing to let go. The Strong Within Us Book 2 will be the book you’ve been waiting for.
She currently lives in Canada with her two teenaged sons and a crested gecko named Mossio.
Website: https://jaboulet.ca/
Twitter link: https://twitter.com/love_walk_life
Instagram link: https://www.instagram.com/jabouletauthor/
YouTube link: https://youtu.be/WnGkybvfMM4
Reddit link: https://www.reddit.com/user/NormalFemale
Amazon link: https://www.amazon.com/Strong-Within-Us-J-Boulet/dp/1777211239
NOTE: the book will be on sale for $1.99 at Kobo during the tour
Kobo (US): https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/the-strong-within-us
Kobo (Canada): https://www.kobo.com/ca/en/ebook/the-strong-within-us
Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-strong-within-us-j-a-boulet/1137976794
Chapters Indigo: https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/the-strong-within-us/9781777211240-item.html
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RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY
J. A. Boulet will be awarding a $15 Amazon or Barnes and Noble GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.
Enter to win a $15 Amazon/BN GC – a Rafflecopter giveaway
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Author Interview
Tell us about you as a person.
I am mathematically inclined. I love numbers! I love calculating, measuring and putting together construction projects. Although, I really suck at tools. Lately, I have been slowly learning how to handle tools a little better but I still have issues with stripping screws and just damaging the wonderful construction projects I planned out!
For much of my life, my main career was financial management. Math is my balance. When I have been writing fiction non-stop for weeks, it is a refreshing break to work with numbers for a day.
If you could hang out with one famous person for one day, who would it be and why?
Good question! I think I’d probably want to hang out with Rihanna. She’s a cool woman with an indomitable spirit. I love her music too.
What’s the story behind your latest book?
I noticed many of my neighbours at my Gimli cottage had Icelandic and Ukrainian DNA. I was curious so we went to the New Iceland Heritage Museum one summer day. It was there that I discovered the courageous plight of these settlers stretching all the way to WWI.
What is your writing process?
I write with my laptop on my lap. I can write on my sofa, at a café, outside on the deck but I cannot write at a desk. My poor back!! Ha!
Tell us about your main character:
Nathan Olason is a strong man, physically and mentally. His values center around family, love, providing and building sustainable economies in his community. He is an impressive strong figure but has a warm heart and he hurts just like all of us.
If your book was to be turned into a movie, who would play the lead role and why.
Brad Pitt! Nathan is in his mid-30s to 50s in The Strong Within Us but still has a sexy attractive body and smile. He also wears his dark blonde hair long, just like Brad Pitt.
What are you working on next?
Book 3 of The Olason Chronicles! The next generation of the Olason’s and WWII.
What advice do you have for other writers who want to get the word out about their book?
Be yourself and don’t rely on just one social media platform. It’s like putting all your investment savings in one basket. That’s never a good idea. Diversity and balancing are what works best if you wish to go international. Also, try to share details of yourself and be genuine. People want to know the person behind the book.
What is your favourite book on your shelf right now?
I am currently reading Ken Follett’s The Evening and The Morning. It’s a prequel about the dark ages and Vikings. I love it! Edgar is my favourite fictional character so far.
Do you have any special/extraordinary talents?
I am quite flexible in my hamstrings and my back! Ha! I never wanted to join Cirque de Soleil but I probably could have with some practice!
You are given the choice of one superpower. What superpower would you have and why?
The Invisible Woman! I could do so much with that power! And nobody would even know!
List 5 things on your bucket list:”
I’ve checked off everything on my most recent bucket list. But here are some new things:
1. Visit my overseas relatives in Budapest
2. Hike Mt Edna volcano in southern Italy
3. Ocean kayaking in the Strait of Georgia
4. Adopting a daughter
5. Marrying the love of my life
Where can readers find you on the web?
Everywhere! Just google my name, JA Boulet! But if want an easier route, my website is https://jaboulet.ca/
Any final thoughts?
I hope everyone enjoys reading The Strong Within Us. I put a lot of sweat, effort and tears into writing this book. I hope it breaks you down, makes you cry, then lifts you up with happy tears of overcoming the worst in life. Remember, the light is always brightest at the end of the tunnel.
Thanks to all my followers for supporting me on this journey and a big thanks to you, C.A. Milson, for hosting me!
Book Trailer
VBT – GUMBEAUX LOVE
Gumbeaux Love
by Jax Frey
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GENRE: Southern Women’s Fiction
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BLURB:
The adventures of the Gumbeaux Sistahs continues. Five, fiery southern women wage wars against their unique problems using their improbable friendships, hilarious evil-genius schemes, strategy sessions with oh-so-many cocktails, and a shared passion for good gumbo.
Single, Southern artist, Judith Lafferty, casually confesses to her Gumbeaux Sistahs that she is occasionally lonely and would like to fall in love again. Seriously – you’d think she would know to keep her mouth shut around these women by now. The sistahs tackle her problem along with their own with their usual unreasonable, extreme plots and schemes, including a kidnapping, a cupid costume, trying out pick-up lines at the cheese counter, and blind dates from hell. In helping out their friend, the sistahs help each other out as well and bring to light the many flavors of love in all of our lives. Be ready for twists, turns, laugh-out-loud times, and heart-wrenching moments. You’ll be sure to recognize yourself and your best friends in the unstoppable sistahs.
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EXCERPT
Judith rinsed her juice glass in the kitchen sink just as the doorbell rang.
“Who in the world at this hour?” she thought, shaking her head and glancing at the clock on the wall. “It’s not even eight o’clock.”
She walked to the front door and started to open it, but before she could swing it open all the way, a hand clutching a paper coffee cup shoved its way inside, barely missing her face.
“What?” she yelped. Then she laughed. “Oh no, are you kidding me?” She opened the door to five Gumbeaux Sistahs, including Bea, Helen, Dawn, Lola, and Trinity who stood on her front stoop holding coffee. It was especially a surprise to see Trinity there since she lived across the lake and had a long way to come. But the most unexpected thing of all was Dawn, who stood there looking embarrassed as all get-out, wearing a big, red Cupid costume.
“Not again!” said Judith, rolling her eyes and remembering that this was exactly the way that the sistahs had originally kidnapped her and become her best friends in the world.
Dawn grimaced and said, “I don’t know why I’m always the one who has to wear a stupid costume.”
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AUTHOR Bio and Links:
Born in New Orleans, Jax came into this world with a sense of celebration of southern culture, food, family and fun. Translating that celebration into her writing and onto canvas is her true calling. Her colorful art depicts everything from her dancing Gumbeaux Sistahs paintings to her popular line of original Mini paintings of southern icons. Because over 25,000 of the mini paintings have been created and sold into art collections worldwide, Jax holds a world’s record for The Most Original Acrylic Paintings on Canvas by One Artist from the World’s Record Academy. Jax art and gifts can be seen at http://www.artbyjax.com.
Jax is also the co-founder of the Women of Infinite Possibilities, an empowering women’s organization started in Covington, LA, where Jax lives today with her loveable, tornado-of-a-pug named Lucy.
The Gumbeaux Sistahs’ series of novels is a work of love for Jax After painting the Sistahs for many years, she finally gives voice to these women characters who have something to say and constantly make Jax laugh when she writes about them. http://www.gumbeauxsistahs.com/
Amazon buy link:
https://www.amazon.com/Gumbeaux-Love-Book-Sistahs-novels-ebook/dp/B08GJ9FZX5/
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RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY
Jax Frey will be awarding a $25 Amazon or Barnes and Noble GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.
Enter to win a $25 Amazon/BN GC – a Rafflecopter giveaway
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book trailer link – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EP9-Sqhta2Q
1. Tell us about you as a person – what makes you, you?
First off, I’m an artist. I’ve made my living as such for about fifteen years now. The word basically defines me in so many ways. Mostly I’m just a creative being.
2. What’s the story of your latest book?
Here’s a description of Gumbeaux Love:
The adventures of the Gumbeaux Sistahs continue!
Five, fiery Southern women – Judith, Bea, Helen, Dawn, and Lola – wage wars against their unique problems using their improbable friendships, hilarious evil-genius schemes, strategy sessions with oh-so-many cocktails, and a shared passion for good gumbo.
Single, Southern artist, Judith Lafferty, casually confesses to her Gumbeaux Sistahs that she is occasionally lonely and would like to fall in love again. Seriously – you’d think she would know to keep her mouth shut around these women by now. The sistahs tackle her problem along with their own with their usual unreasonable, extreme plots and schemes, including a kidnapping, a cupid costume, trying out pick-up lines at the cheese counter, and blind dates from hell. In helping out their friend, the sistahs help each other out as well and bring to light the many flavors of love in all of our lives. Be ready for twists, turns, laugh-out-loud times, and heart-wrenching moments. You’ll be sure to recognize yourself and your close friends in the unstoppable sistahs.
3. What is your writing process?
I like dead-stone silence or coffee shop white noise. I wrote the first of The Gumbeaux Sistahs novels in a coffee shop. Because of Covid, I had to make some adjustments. So now I write sitting in my car, parked at a river, under a shady Oak. It works just fine.
4. Tell us about your main character.
There are five main characters but I will tell you about Judith. I consider her kind of the narrator for the story, the straight girl for many laughs, and, also, an artist. She is an introvert who is the latest inductee into the Gumbeaux Sistahs group. Her delight at having those kind of friends —caring, supportive, and hilarious —overwhelms her at times and she can’t believe how lucky she is.
5. If your book turned into a movie, who would play the lead role and why?
Diane Keaton would play Judith. She’s my comic hero and a wonderful dramatic actress so she can handle all sides of Judith’s character. Plus she has the best hair on earth.
6. What are you working on next?
Book 3 of the series is in the works and should be out in summer 2021. And yes, conceived and written in the shade of an old, Oak tree.
7. What advice do you have for other writers who want to get the word out about their book?
Aside from your usual social media posts, do something out of the ordinary every day to promote your book. Call a book club, introduce yourself to a new book store, set up a book signing, etc.
8. What is your favorite book on your shelf right now?
Pat Conroy’s Beach Music never, ever gets old.
9. Do you have any special/extraordinary talents?
Nope. Except, maybe, for my ability to start something and see it through to the end.
10. You are given the choice one super power. What would you have and why?
That’s easy. It’s teleportation because I have family all over the place that I would love to visit. Plus I love to travel!
11. List 5 things on your bucket list.
- Make life better for my children
- Live in a motor home for a few years
- Visit Spain next year
- Write 10 Gumbeaux Sistahs books
- Be a collected artist and author for the rest of my life.
12. Where can readers find you on the web?
http://www.gumbeauxsistahs.com
My art website is www.artbyjax.com
13. Any final thoughts?
Yes, I’d just like to say that my intentions behind The Gumbeaux Sistahs novels is to offer a respite for my readers. I want them to be able to crack open a GS book and find joy, the kind of friendship we all need and crave, peace, and a bucketful of laughter. When I put down my pen and feel I’ve accomplished those things, the I know a book is done.
VBT – Kennedy Deveraux
Kennedy Deveraux
by Bernadette Marie
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GENRE: Contemporary Romance
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BLURB:
Kennedy Devereaux, owner of Kennedy Devereaux Designs, is a sight to behold in her signature pink colors, accented with custom designed jewelry. Intriguing enough that Joel Kingsley, the man building the new business next door, can’t help but keep coming around, just to get to know the woman in the designer clothes. He finds she’s not such a mystery, and his charm easily wins her over–until she finds that he’s forgotten to let her in on the secrets of his past.
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EXCERPT
Pink doors, crystal light fixtures, white shelves. Joel cupped his hands around his eyes to get a better look at the feminine interior of the store he stood in front of. Kennedy Devereaux Designs, the lettering on the door said. Costume jewelry, purses, and a few pieces of clothing were elegantly displayed on uncluttered shelves. He could see a small sitting area toward the back of the store with white chairs on a plush pink rug.
When he stepped back from the door, he inhaled. Could he even smell the store and all of its femininity?
“Can I help you?” A soft voice had him turning to see a woman, as feminine as the store, standing behind him.
She was the smell—sweet and floral. Soft golden hair framed a delicate face, and her lipstick matched the soft pastel pink of the doors he’d been looking through. Sharp blue eyes watched him as he stared at her.
Joel Kingsley was no idiot around women, but this one seemed to render him speechless.
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So Cute Photo San Jose Family Photography
AUTHOR Bio and Links:
Bestselling Author Bernadette Marie is known for building families readers want to be part of. Her series The Keller Family has graced bestseller charts since its release in 2011. Since then she has authored and published over thirty-five books. The married mother of five sons promises romances with a Happily Ever After always…and says she can write it because she lives it.
Obsessed with the art of writing and the business of publishing, chronic entrepreneur Bernadette Marie established her own publishing house, 5 Prince Publishing, in 2011 to bring her own work to market as well as offer an opportunity for fresh voices in fiction to find a home as well.
When not immersed in the writing/publishing world, Bernadette Marie and her husband are shuffling their five hockey playing boys around town to practices and games as well as running their family business. She is a lover of a good stout craft beer and might have an unhealthy addiction to chocolate.
SOCIAL MEDIA/CONTACT
Email: info@bernadettemarie.com
Website: www.bernadettemarie.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/authorbernadettemarie
Twitter: www.twitter.com/writesromance
Instagram: www.instagram.com/authorbernadettemarie
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/writerofromance
Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/Kennedy-Devereaux-Family-Book-ebook/dp/B08JZK8KKV
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RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY
Bernadette Marie will be awarding a $25 Amazon/BN GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.
Enter to win a $25 Amazon/BN GC – a Rafflecopter giveaway
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Tell us about you as a person.
I am a boy mom x 5, though my boys are mostly men. My youngest turns 16 on the 9th! My husband and I are college sweethearts and have been married for 27 years. Aside from being an author and a publisher, my husband and I own 5 carwashes which is an adventure. I am also training for my certified 2nd degree black belt.
If you could hang out with one famous person for one day, who would it be and why?
I’m not sure I could make a choice between Oprah and Michelle Obama. I find them to both be charismatic and smart. I would just love to absorb some of their aura. So, whichever one invites me to hang out for the day first, wins.
What’s the story behind your latest book?
Kennedy Devereaux is the first book in my Devereaux Family series. This is the story of Kennedy Devereaux, fashion boutique owner, and her newly found love with the business owner next door, Joel Kingsley.
What is your writing process?
I write in silence, well, I mean I don’t add more sound like music. I can write anywhere in any circumstance, so I easily tune out other sounds. I start writing each day at 6am, and I shoot for 2000 words before I’m done. On days that I go into my office, some of those words are finished in the evening.
Tell us about your main character:
Kennedy Devereaux has a signature pink nail color, designs jewelry, and is always fashionable in her little boutique. However, at home she’s messy and out of sorts. I think this brings some realness to her, as so many of us are functionable at the office, but can’t pick our clothes up off the floor.
If your book was to be turned into a movie, who would play the lead role and why.
I have to admit, I know so few actresses by name, I can’t even come up with one off the top of my head. Though, Anne Hathaway comes to mind when I think of someone who could pull off the class that is Kennedy Devereaux.
What are you working on next?
Kennedy is the first book in the Devereaux family series. Each book is names after one of the family members. Chase has already released. Max releases in January, and Paige in February. After that, I will pen a few Christmas titles for next year before starting a new saga, TBD.
What advice do you have for other writers who want to get the word out about their book?
Network, network, network. Create a village of other authors who will work with you and support you. In turn, you support them. Find them in all genres too, because people don’t always read just one genre, so you never know who you might connect with.
What is your favorite book on your shelf right now?
On my shelf are my son’s books. He writes RPG LIT. The obvious reason they are my favorite is because he is one of my favorites, hands down.
Do you have any special/extraordinary talents?
I can write backwards and upside down, in cursive!
You are given the choice of one super power. What super power would you have and why?
I’ve always played the superhero that could be invisible. I would love to get from place to place and no one has to see you.
List 5 things on your bucket list:
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Go back to Lucca, Italy
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NYT Bestselling Author Status
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Learn to ballroom dance (at least one dance)
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Go to New York for Christmas (on a quiet, normal year)
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Sit on a live movie set.
Any final thoughts?
Thank you for having me on your blog. I appreciate it.
VBT – A CURSE OF MAYHEM
A Curse of Mayhem
by Sunayna Prasad
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GENRE: Middle grade fantasy
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BLURB:
History, like magic, has a habit of repeating itself
It’s been six months since thirteen-year-old Alyssa McCarthy left magic behind for good. Or so she thought…
Then the enchanted objects that protected her disappear. Now a skeleton named Errol has cursed her with magical powers that keep getting her in trouble. Suddenly strange things are happening with disastrous effects, and if Alyssa can’t remove the magic, she will lose everything she holds dear.
In order to get rid of her unwanted wizardry, Alyssa will have to boost her bravery and confidence and determine who Errol really is. But every time Alyssa uses an enchantment, Errol is one step closer to getting his flesh back and becoming alive, and he will do anything to achieve his goals…even if it means destroying Alyssa’s happiness.
Originally published in 2016 as “Wizardry Goes Wild” and “The Unruly Curse” in 2019, “A Curse of Mayhem” is book two in the exciting and suspenseful “Magical Missions” series.
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EXCERPT
Lilac-colored smoke poured in through the slight opening under Alyssa’s bedroom window. Alyssa leaped back. She swore the window had been closed when she’d come in here a few minutes ago.
The gas clouded into her room, blocking her sight. It washed onto her, causing her to squint and lean back. She coughed, rubbed her eyes, and opened them. The smoke faded. Someone must’ve pulled a prank, and not just any kind—one that involved…wizardry.
Alyssa’s breathing sped up. She shut the window and gazed at the huge yard and long driveway. No one was outside—not even Alex, her godfather and legal guardian.
Perhaps the trespasser had escaped or had hidden somewhere—maybe behind the tree on the lawn or somewhere else on the property.
Alyssa hurried out, brushing ash from her muted purple shirt. She entered the ground floor and opened the front door. “Hello?!”
There was no answer.
“Whoever set that smoke off, it wasn’t funny!”
The silence continued.
Despite the freezing air this autumn evening, Alyssa stepped onto the front porch. A piece of paper appeared out of nowhere, making her jump. She picked it up, anyway.
Welcome back to magic.
Her chest tightened. She hadn’t encountered a single instance of wizardry in six months! Plus, she had two objects that were supposed to protect her from such encounters.
She dashed back up to her room and opened the closet door. Tape hung from a shoebox, and the items that she had left in there…were missing.
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AUTHOR Bio and Links:
Sunayna Prasad enjoys writing fantasy books for children, as well as cooking, creating artwork, watching online videos, and blogging. She has also written The Frights of Fiji, formerly titled as From Frights to Flaws. She is passionate about modern life, fantasy, and world-building. Aside from her website, she also has a blog about different creative and entertaining topics, including fiction and writing, called “Sunayna Prasad’s Blog”.
Sunayna has graduated from college in May 2017. She lives in Long Island, NY.
https://www.sunaynaprasadbooks.com/
https://sunaynaprasadblogs.com/
https://www.amazon.com/Unruly-Alyssa-McCarthys-Magical-Missions-ebook/dp/B07SGLLF8W
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-curse-of-mayhem-sunayna-prasad/1136458117
https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/a-curse-of-mayhem
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RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY
Sunayna Prasad will be awarding a $25 Amazon/BN GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.
Enter to win a $25 Amazon/BN GC – a Rafflecopter giveaway
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Tell us about you as a person.
I love animals very much. I used to have guinea pigs and want to get them again.
If you could hang out with one famous person for one day, who would it be and why?
Maybe Gilbert Gottfried. I actually saw him perform at a comedy club and met him briefly after the show. I think it would be nice to hang out with him.
What’s the story behind your latest book?
I have book 3 available for pre-order on Amazon.
What is your writing process?
Sometimes I will handwrite first and then type the words. I am a big planner when it comes to writing. I have to have an outline before I start.
Tell us about your main character:
13-year-old Alyssa is cursed with involuntary magic powers that she must remove by boosting her confidence and bravery.
If your book was to be turned into a movie, who would play the lead role and why.
Ha ha, I don’t know.
What are you working on next?
Minor editing in book 3.
What advice do you have for other writers who want to get the word out about their book?
Create great content, not just good. Believe me, good isn’t satisfying when it comes to publishing. I removed all decent works from the market.
What is your favorite book on your shelf right now?
“Mistborn” by Brandon Sanderson
Do you have any special/extraordinary talents?
Art and cooking
You are given the choice of one super power. What super power would you have and why?
Teleporting. That way, I don’t have to worry about traffic or transportation money and restrictions.
List 5 things on your bucket list:
- A wilderness trip
- A big fundraiser
- A visit back to Niagara Falls
- A trip to Japan
- To see a kangaroo, even at a zoo.
Any final thoughts?
I would love to host a virtual book signing and donate that money to a charity.
VBT – PLEASE DON’T DIVORCE ME
This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.
Whether your decision was made by you, or made for you, it is within your control to make the right decisions for your children.
Vickie’s parents divorced when she was only nine, wedging her in the middle of a dispute many kids face every day. It still remains one of the toughest times of her life. As she shares parts of herself and other people’s experiences with you, she hopes you will be better prepared to make good choices for your children.
“Please Don’t Divorce Me” is candidly written as a parent’s guide from a child’s perspective aiming at fostering a healthy transition and minimizing hurt for what is already a difficult time in a child’s life.
Divorce is not pretty, but it doesn’t have to be ugly either.
Choose children, love, and happiness above all else!
Read an Excerpt
My parents were the first true loves of my life. I felt safe with them and in our family home. Our home was warm and welcoming, and my parents always made us a priority in their lives. I knew I could depend on them, and they were predictable, which was the best feeling in the world. I never had to worry about my parents not being there for me or not being supportive. It didn’t matter what kind of day I had either. When I got home I knew they would be there and everything would be okay. I do not remember a time at this age of when I felt disappointment or anger towards my parents. When the bus would drop me off after school I couldn’t wait to get inside. It was my safety net, and I could breathe. If Dad was off that day he would be home waiting. If he was working the day shift, I knew there would probably be a love note from Mom. Every day on her lunch hour she would come home and begin prepping the meal we were eating that evening. They were always there for me, always a constant, and now what?
About the Author:
Vickie grew up in a small town in Louisiana. She graduated with a degree in Business Administration and played in the college marching and symphony bands to foster her love for music since fifth grade. Vickie has been married for over twenty two years to the love of her life and best friend. She and her husband have two sons. They have shared in the joys and tears of raising boys and refer to themselves as the “A-Team”. One is going to college in the fall and “half” of the empty nest will begin! Her youngest son is in high school.
By day, Vickie has enjoyed a 24-year career in contracts management and operations and by night has written many poems and cards and scrapbooks to capture fun memories. She loves spending time with family and friends!
She is known for and recognized by many traits, but freckles, red hair, loud sneezes, compassion, love and laughter tops the list. She is also the Co-founder and President of Krewe de Halcyon, a social organization dedicated to positively impacting the community and embracing the Louisiana tradition of Mardi Gras (one of her favorite holidays!)
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vickie.s.hall
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freckles__74/
Amazon buy link: https://www.amazon.com/Please-Dont-Divorce-Vickie-Hall-ebook/dp/B08LP4VHHM/
Vickie Hall will be awarding a $20 Amazon or Barnes and Noble GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js
VBT – HUNGRY BUSINESS
Hungry Business: A Short Story
by Maria DeBlassie
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GENRE: Gothic, Horror (Cozy)
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BLURB:
From the multi-award-winning author of Everyday Enchantments: Musings on Ordinary Magic & Daily Conjurings comes a cozy Gothic short story about searching for connection in a world that’s forgotten the power of everyday magic.
Looking for love can be deadly…
You know how it goes. You go out, hoping to meet someone. You wade through your fair share of brainless automatons, lifeless bodies, and ravenous undead good at passing as human.
The more you go out, the less hope you feel and the colder your body gets. But you keep at it. All you need is one beating heart to match your own before yours stops pumping altogether. How hard can it be to find one living, breathing human in a city full of bodies?
Dating.
It’s hungry business.
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EXCERPT
The things you do for love.
Like talking yourself into thinking that the lifeless body across the table from you has his own kind of charm. Surely his gray pallor is only a trick of the light. His skeletal frame might even be considered athletic. You try not to look at his chipped and bloodied fingernails as you force down your mediocre steak tartar. Sadly, that room temperature appetizer will be the hottest thing on the menu tonight.
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AUTHOR Bio and Links:
Maria DeBlassie, Ph.D. is a native New Mexican mestiza blogger, award-winning writer, and award-winning educator living in the Land of Enchantment. Her first book, Everyday Enchantments: Musings on Ordinary Magic & Daily Conjurings (Moon Books 2018), and her ongoing blog, Enchantment Learning & Living are about everyday magic, ordinary gothic, and the life of a kitchen witch. When she is not practicing her own brand of brujeria, she’s reading, teaching, and writing about bodice rippers and things that go bump in the night. She is forever looking for magic in her life and somehow always finding more than she thought was there. Find out more about Maria and conjuring everyday magic at http://www.mariadeblassie.com.
Social Media Links:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7rY-gLkSH-w8uuVyrhVALA
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/17535853.Maria_DeBlassie
https://www.facebook.com/EnchantmentLL
https://twitter.com/EnchantmentLL
https://www.pinterest.com/mdeblassieell
The book is $0.99 during the tour
Amazon buy link: https://www.amazon.com/Hungry-Business-Short-Maria-DeBlassie-ebook/dp/B08L48MVHD
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RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY
Maria DeBlassie will be awarding a free ecopy of Hungry Business to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.
Enter to win a copy of the short story – a Rafflecopter giveaway
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Q & A With….
Tell us about you as a person.
I always joke that sometimes I feel like a fiction character trapped in a writer’s body. I like to think of myself as the heroine of my own story—corny, I know! But it helps me be intentional about the kind of life I want to live. And it helps me to feel bold. Introverted writer Maria might not take a certain risk. But a book heroine? Damn straight, she would! So take the risk and dare to allow to dream a little bigger.
If you could hang out with one famous person for one day, who would it be and why?
How about with one very un-famous person for one day? I wouldn’t mind learning from the kind of old witchy crone that lives at the edge of the woods and has learned the secrets of the universe.
What’s the story behind your latest book?
Hungry Business is about how dating is the zombie apocalypse of the soul. Seriously! Who hasn’t been on a string of terrible dates that make you feel like it’s the end of the world? But it’s as much about healing your relationship to yourself as it is about dating. Sometimes we can go numb, start feeling soulless, when we’re simply going through the motions of what mainstream society tells us we should be doing in order to Live Our Best Life. But when we pull back, pull in, and reconnect to self, that’s when the magic happens.
What is your writing process?
I’ve learned that I need time to sink into the realm of the imagination. I need time in the kitchen or garden—or both—before I’m ready to delve into my stories. Other times I need yoga or twenty minutes of reading to help me unplug from the outside world. This is my transition time, like that moment right before you fall asleep to dream your dreams. Then I write.
Tell us about your main character:
The protagonist in Hungry Business is a total gem, one of sincere people looking for love in all the wrong places. She’s got a lot of heart and a lot of hope. But she’s also afraid that if she stops looking for love in the conventional ways, she’ll never find it. That if she stops and stays home and tends her internal life, she’ll only be left with loneliness. In reality, when she stops doing the things that make her feel soulless, the magic finds her. That’s part of what she has to learn in the story.
If your book was to be turned into a movie, who would play the lead role and why.
That’s a tough one! I’d go for an indie unknown to help make the story feel more real and a little less Hollywood.
What are you working on next?
Readers can enjoy more cozy Gothic short stories like Hungry Business, in the coming year, plus my second book, Practically Pagan ~ An Alternative Guide to Everyday Magic, which will be release September 24, 2021. The title says it all: it’s a practical guide to conjuring a more magical life!
What advice do you have for other writers who want to get the word out about their book?
Sit down. Write. Then write some more until you have a story that’s ready for the world. Then develop a social media and get to know fellow artists and writers—once you build those relationships, you develop a supportive a lively network of readers and appreciators. Digital covens are real! We help each other get the word out about our art.
What is your favorite book on your shelf right now?
Another tough question! I’m usually reading a handful at a time. I’m reading Iron & Velvet by Alexis Hall, a queer occult detective novel; The Chocolate Kiss by Laura Florand, a romance about a Parisian kitchen witch; and Tarot: No Questions Asked: Mastering the Art of Intuitive Reading by Theresa Reed, to deepen my own tarot practice…I could go on, but that’s a pretty decent look at the range of books I’m reading at any given time.
Do you have any special/extraordinary talents?
Well, I’ am a bruja. I believe in everyday magic, the power of the universe, the seen and the unseen, and the daily spells we cast without thinking—the wishes, thoughts, and actions we cast out into the world to bear fruit. When we’re more intentional about this energy, we can direct it towards hope and healing. I also hoard way too many mason jars, have my own witchy herb garden, deal the tarot, and know that storytelling is one of the deepest forms of magic.
You are given the choice of one super power. What super power would you have and why?
Hmmmm…maybe to be like those super cool abilities like being able to be at peace when the world storms around you. Is that a power? Feel like it’s something I’m still learning how to do, so if I ever achieved that kind of equilibrium it would feel pretty magical!
List 5 things on your bucket list:
- Be able to Latin dance without feeling self-conscious at first
- Learn how to say “no” without apologizing
- Live in a hobbit hole as cool as Bag End
- Become proficient enough in the tarot that I don’t have to consult my books to do a reading
- Fulfill one of those cheesy snowed-in romance novel plots
Where can readers find you on the web?
If readers are interested in delving into the realm of everyday magic and ordinary gothic, they can find me at www.mariadeblassie.com.
Any final thoughts?
Thank you so much for this lovely interview! It was delightful to chat!
VBT – THE SECRET LIFE OF MISS ANNA MARSH
This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.
Now available in print for the first time, USA Today bestselling author Ella Quinn’s second installment in The Marriage Game series is a witty, romantic historical tale about a young lady who must choose between her head and her heart…
Since she was a young girl, Anna Marsh has dreamed of Sebastian, Baron Rutherford asking for her hand in marriage. But that was in another life when her brother Harry was alive, before she vowed to secretly continue the work he valiantly died for. Now as Sebastian finally courts Anna, she must thwart his advances. Were he to discover her secret, he would never deem her a suitable wife…
Sebastian has always known Anna would become his wife someday. He expects few obstacles, but when she dissuades him at every turn he soon realizes there is much more to this intriguing woman. Somehow he must prove to her that they are meant to be together. But first he must unravel the seductive mystery that is Miss Anna Marsh…
Read an Excerpt
October 25, 1814, Marsh House, London
Miss Anna Marsh was in her parlor reading, when her maid, Lizzy, entered and held out a grubby piece of paper.
“Came from my brother, Kev, this morning,” Lizzy said.
Anna nodded, took the note, and opened it. She perused the contents then closed her eyes.
“I’m going to have to find a way to convince Mamma to allow me to remove to Marsh Hill before the Little Season has ended. Though I cannot do anything until after Lady Phoebe’s wedding.”
“That bad, miss?” her maid asked, screwing up her face. “You might have a time of it. I heard Lady Marsh was planning to go to some country house next week.”
Anna sighed. Ever since her brother Harry’s death, Mamma had become difficult. “She probably expects me to go with her.” Anna shrugged. “Well I cannot. Someone has been sniffing around Thanport. I don’t like the sound of it.” Anna rose and walked over to her mahogany writing desk. She opened a drawer. Eschewing the neat stack of elegant pressed paper, she pulled out a piece of the distinctly rougher type. “I’ll write Kev and tell him to lay low until I can get there.”
K
No information exchanged or meetings scheduled until I arrive.
A
She sealed the message and handed it to Lizzy. “Make sure this goes out to-day, even if you have to take it yourself.”
“Yes, miss.”
Anna pinched her upper nose. “I do hope this is not going to make our lives even more complicated.”
“What do you think that other man wants?” Lizzy asked.
“I don’t know.” Anna shook her head. “But I have a feeling whatever it is will do us no good. I’m going to Mamma and try to talk her around. I do wish she and Papa could settle their differences.”
Lizzy nodded. “It does make things a bit more difficult.”
“That it does,” Anna said, smiling grimly.
About the Author: USA Today bestselling author Ella Quinn’s studies and other jobs have always been on the serious side. Reading historical romances, especially Regencies, was her escape. Eventually her love of historical novels led her to start writing them.
She is married to her wonderful husband of over thirty years. They have a son and two beautiful granddaughters, and a Great Dane. After living in the South Pacific, Central America, North Africa, England and Europe, she and her husband decided to make their dreams come true and are now living on a sailboat. After cruising the Caribbean and North America, she completed a transatlantic crossing from St. Martin to Southern Europe. She’s currently living in Germany, happily writing while her husband is back at work, recovering from retirement.
Ella loves when readers connect with her.
Author Contact and Social Media:
Website: https://www.ellaquinnauthor.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EllaQuinnAuthor
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ellaquinnauthor
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7044274.Ella_Quinn
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/ella-quinn
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Ella-Quinn/e/B00CAE0FSQ
Buy Links for the Mass Market Paperback:
Kensington: https://www.kensingtonbooks.com/9781420147292/the-secret-life-of-miss-anna-marsh/
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1420147293/
Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/secret-life-of-miss-anna-marsh-ella-quinn/1115458071?ean=9781420147292
BAM: https://www.booksamillion.com/search?query=9781420147292&where=All
Indiebound: https://www.indiebound.org/book/9781420147292
Target: https://www.target.com/s?searchTerm=9781420147292
Ella Quinn will be awarding a $25 Amazon GC to a randomly drawn winner.
