Interview + Review for Dianne Duvall!!!

Hello my lovelies!! Today I am honored to welcome one of my all-time favorite authors, Dianne Duvall on her release tour for Darkness Rises!! I can't tell you how thrilled I am to have her on the blog :) To make things even better, she sat down for an interview with me AND I got the opportunity to read an ARC of Darkness Rises so be sure to stay tuned after the interview for that review!

But wait! There's more...

 

 

Be sure to answer Dianne's question in the comments below for your chance to win a SIGNED copy of Predatory containing a novella of the Immortal Guardians series :D Plus you'll get some pretty kick ass swag! OPEN INTERNATIONALLY, MUST BE 18+ TO ENTER. Don't forget to leave your email address so the winner can be contacted! Contest ends Sunday Oct 27 11:59:59 PM EST.

 

Answer this question from Dianne!! Don't forget your email address!!

 Are you reading any special books to get yourself in the Halloween spirit?  Let me know for a chance to win a signed copy of PREDATORY, my last release, + Immortal Guardians swag.

 

Now sit back, relax, and enjoy meeting this absolutely amazing author!

 

Welcome to my humble blog, Dianne! First let me tell you what an honor it is to host one of my favorite authors :) I love your new take on the vampire mythology. Tell us about the Immortal Guardians and what makes them so unique.

Although my Immortal Guardians series falls under the heading of vampire romance, vampires aren’t the heroes in it.  They’re the villains.  (Or rather they’re ONE group of villains.  Others have reared their heads as the series has progressed.) Vampires are humans who have been infected with a very rare symbiotic virus that behaves like no other on the planet.  This virus conquers and replaces the immune system, then lends its host heightened senses coupled with incredible speed, strength, and regenerative capabilities.  It also causes photosensitivity, a need for blood, and progressive brain damage that rapidly drives humans infected with it insane.  

Immortal Guardians, on the other hand, are men and women born with extremely advance DNA, who are infected with the same virus.  Their advanced DNA lends them abilities humans and vampires don’t possess — such as telepathy in the case of Étienne, the hero of DARKNESS RISES — and protects them from the more corrosive aspects of the virus so they suffer no brain damage.  As a result, immortals spend their nights hunting and destroying the insane vampires who prey upon humans.

 

I love that distinction between the Guardians and vamps. It truly makes for an intriguing premise as the every day human doesn't know there is a difference between the two beings. How did you come up with the inspiration for your Immortal Guardians series?

I never know what might inspire me.  The idea to make vampirism the result of a virus, for example, arose from watching documentaries and educational programs in which historians expressed their belief that much of the vampire mythology that has existed for centuries resulted from a simple misunderstanding of such illnesses as porphyria.  When I sought a way to differentiate between immortals and vampires, the notion of having the virus cause progressive brain damage and madness in humans was inspired by a biography of King George III, whose madness many in the medical field now believe resulted from the same illness:  porphyria.  The laughter and teasing immortals frequently engage in was simply inspired by the laughter that’s such a large part of my own life.  So, inspiration can come from many sources.  J

 

I've heard that theory! I do think it's plausible it originated from a misunderstanding of diseases and having disease be the source of vampirism makes it seem more likely this could actually happen. Do you have any favorite characters? In particular, do you have any favorite Immortal Guardian? If so, why?

My favorite vampire in the series would be Cliff.  His heroic struggle to stave off the madness just breaks my heart.  Darnell, Chris, and Sheldon are pretty evenly tied for my favorite mortals in the series.  My favorite Immortal Guardians, however, tend to change with each book. Étienne and Krysta, the hero and heroine of DARKNESS RISES, are my current favorites.  I simply love the teasing banter they share.  But, if I had to choose just one, it would be Seth, the eldest and most powerful Immortal Guardian.  He carries so many responsibilities on his broad shoulders and has seen such tragedy in his long existence.  I think he deserves a HEA more than anyone.

 

Personally, I adore Cliff and his struggles, as well as Seth. He's the most intriguing character I've read in a very long time and I find myself rereading the parts centered around him the most :) What has been the most fun about exploring the world of the Immortal Guardians?

Discovering that characters can surprise me.  It may sound odd — I’m the writer, after all, and control all aspects of the series — but it’s true.  I’m a pantser, not a plotter, which means I don’t have the entire series already outlined and summarized from beginning to end.  I know where I want series arc to take me.  However, I don’t know how many books it will take me to get there or which couples will find their HEAs along the way.

Étienne and his siblings are among the characters who have surprised me thus far.  I had initially planned to tell their stories later in the series, but I couldn’t stop thinking about them.  Sibling immortals are extremely rare in my Immortal Guardians world.  And, for two centuries, Lisette has borne enormous guilt over accidentally transforming her brothers.  The more I encountered Étienne and Richart, the more I wanted them to find their HEAs.  And I knew Lisette would never let herself find happiness until they did, so they pretty much demanded I tell their stories sooner rather than later.  J

 

I admit that I was a bit surprised that you told their stories so early, but I fell in love with them immediately. I cannot wait to read Lisette's story! If you were stuck on a deserted island and could only have 3 things, what would they be?

Assuming there was no cell phone reception, I would want one of those large hunting knives that has waterproof matches, a fishing line with a hook, and a compass in the handle (Did I mention I’ve had to research weapons for several manuscripts?); an iPad crammed full of pics and videos of my family, books, movies, music, and apps; and a solar-powered tent to power it and keep me warm at night.

 

Oooo, creative choice of things with multiple uses! I love it :) What do you like to do in your free time?

Spend time with my family, read, and garden, though I admit I’ve had very little time for the last two of late.  My TBR pile now teeters precariously near the ceiling, and I don’t know if my plants are going to forgive me for neglecting them so heinously over the last few months while I prepared for DARKNESS RISES’ release.  J

 

I commend you for even attempting to keep plants. I can't manage to keep the poor things alive. The only reason I manage to have a dog is that she gets cranky if she doesn't get plenty of attention. Last time I checked, plants don't communicate well ;) Do you have any advice for aspiring authors?

Write every day.  I know life can be busy and hectic and stressful and exhausting.  But, even if you can only manage to write a single paragraph on your worst day, you will be one paragraph closer to achieving your goal.  And ALWAYS look for ways to improve your writing.  If I had 30 million books in print that had been translated into 20 different languages and were worldwide bestsellers, I would still search for ways I could be a better writer.  If you’ve never taken any creative writing classes, I highly recommend that you read Stephen King’s ON WRITING (also available as an audiobook) and Christopher Vogler’s THE WRITER’S JOURNEY.  Both will help you distinguish between strong and weak writing and avoid the pitfalls into which new writers can unknowingly fall.

 

That is amazing advice <3 Can you tell us anything about what you have in store for the Immortal Guardians?

Right now I’m working on NIGHT UNBOUND, the fifth book in the series.  It will feature Étienne’s sister Lisette as heroine and Zach — a dark, mysterious, and very powerful winged figure — as hero.  Zach is yet another of those characters who surprised me.  I didn’t realize when I introduced him what a pivotal role he would end up playing in the series. J    

 

I cannot WAIT for this book. Seriously. I am dying to know more about Zach and Lisette!! Any last thoughts you’d like to share with your readers?

Thank you for your support!  You’ve been so generous, helping me spread the word about my series.  And your wonderful comments, messages, and emails never fail to make me smile.  I hope you’ll enjoy Étienne and Krysta’s story!  Thank you again!

Thank you again so much for joining me, Dianne! It has been a pleasure getting to know you a bit better :)

Lovelies, stay tuned for my review of Darkness Rises and be sure to enter to win a SIGNED paperback copy of Predatory!!

About the book:

Publisher: Zebra
Publication Date: October 1, 2013

My source for the book: Gift from author

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Description:

 

Krysta is used to getting the drop on vampires. Her "special abilities" aren't much, but the plan is simple—she plays helpless pretty young thing to lure them in. Then her shoto swords come out and it's bye-bye, bloodsucker. Until one night she finds herself with an unexpected ally. He's a vampire, all right, but different. Mysterious. Handsome. And more interested in saving her skin than draining it.

Étienne has been an Immortal Guardian for two hundred years—long enough to know that Krysta is special. He can't stop thinking about her long legs, even more than her short swords. Then he discovers the vamps she's exterminating have friends in high places, and the Guardians are in danger too. He'll have to accept Krysta's help to save them. The stakes for a mortal are high. But the cost to his heart might be higher. . .

 

• Amazon — http://amzn.to/1881z2E
• Kindle — http://amzn.to/1auybnw
• Barnes & Noble — http://bit.ly/1ftUHTI
• Nook — http://bit.ly/19LJGor
• iBooks — http://bit.ly/16Oc1cS
• Kobo — http://bit.ly/1bgYDFx
• Audible — http://bit.ly/1eLWUbT
• Walmart — http://bit.ly/1h7RzIP

 

WHAT I LIKED:

 

This series is incredibly original and contains some of the most interesting characters I've read in quite a while. I stumbled across Dianne's work in the bookstore and I'm hooked. Never have I fallen so hard and so fast for every character in a book, especially the secondary characters! From the moment I encounted Etienne, I couldn't wait to get my hands on his story.

 

Krysta was a perfect match for Etienne. She's prickly, stubborn, and a born warrior. While she isn't too keen on Etienne when she first meets him (and can you blame her? She does think he's a vampire after all), the attraction is undeniable. As more of their story unfolded, I found myself turning the pages faster and faster to find out what happened. The moment I finished the book, I flipped right back to the beginning and started re-reading it. There are VERY few authors I do that.

 

Beyond Etienne and Krysta, I adored learning more about my favorite couples and the secondary characters. Zach is turning into such a mysterious character and I was thrilled to see that his book is the next one. Dianne has a talent for creating a rich environment and plot that grabs you from the first paragraph and never lets you up.

 

While this is part of a series, it is stand alone. That being said, I HIGHLY recommend reading the previous books so you can love the characters as much as I do :)

 

WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE:

 

Having to wait for the next book to be released!

 

 

OVERALL VERDICT: 5/5 Blue Duckies!!

 

 

If you are looking for a fantastic paranormal romance that's action packed, suspenseful, steamy, and has beautifully written characters that stay with you long after you've finished the book, then run out and grab your copy today! And be sure to read all of the others!!

Meet Dianne!

Dianne Duvall is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Immortal Guardians paranormal romance series.  Her debut novel, Darkness Dawns, was nominated for the RT Reviewers' Choice Award for Best Vampire Romance by RT Book Reviews and for Best Paranormal Romance—Vampire by The Romance Reviews.  Ensuing books in the series — Night Reigns, Phantom Shadows, and Predatory — have all been deemed Top Picks by RT Book Reviews, The Romance Reviews, and/or Night Owl Reviews.  Her latest release, Darkness Rises, has been declared a Top Pick by both Night Owl Reviews and The Romance Reviews as well. 

Dianne loves all things creative.  When she isn't writing, Dianne is active in the independent film industry and once even appeared onscreen as a machete-wielding maniac not unlike the vampires in her novels.

 

Connect With Dianne Online

Website: http://www.dianneduvall.com
Blog: http://dianneduvall.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DianneDuvallAuthor
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/DianneDuvall
Youtube: http://www.youtube
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/dianneduvall
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4400405.Dianne_Duvall

 

 





Interview and Review with Sharon Sala!!!

Hello my lovelies! Today is a VERY special day. Not only am I kickstarting my interviewing and reviewing again, I'm hosting one of my all-time favorite authors, ever. It's such an honor to be able to introduce you to the fantabulous Sharon Sala!!

Sharon is an amazing writer, one of the rare few who have released a phenomenal amount of books while mantaining a consistent style. Not only that, but this New York Times Bestselling author has also ventured into the tumultuous waters of self-publishing.

I also had the astounding privilege of being able to review an advanced copy of her book, Going Once, that was released today!! It's the first in a new trilogy and I can't recommend it enough. Alas, I'm getting ahead of myself so let's get on to the interview then the review!!

Thank you so much for joining me, Sharon. May I say what an honor it is to have you on my blog? When did you know you wanted to be a writer?

I don’t think I ever had a moment that hit me and said, “this is it, Sharon! You should be a writer.” It was more of a gradual thing…finding a way to share the stories that were always in my head.


That's wonderful. You have definitely found the perfect way to share those stories :) What has been the most difficult part about being a writer?

It’s probably never having enough time to write the way I’d like to, and the long drawn out process about waiting for an editor to pass judgment on a proposal or a manuscript.


Oh yes, I can only imagine how nervewracking that must be! Do you use a pen name? If so, how did you come up with your pen name?

Dinah McCall is my pen name, and it came about from a publisher I had who wanted to publish me in a different genre. The name Dinah was my younger sister, Diane’s, nickname. She died in 1985, before all of this started for me, so choosing it as my pen name was my way of taking her with me on this amazing journey. I chose McCall because at the time, there wasn’t another McCall writing romance. All about the marketing… LOL

I think that's such a beautiful way to honor your sister! Who are your favorite authors?

Without hesitation, John Hart, Robert Crais and Harlan Coben.

Those are fantastic authors :) What authors inspire you?

Authors who aren’t just ‘telling me a story’, but the ones who bring the pages to life. Kay Hooper is brilliant at this, as is Iris Johansen.

I couldn't agree more. Kay Hooper has always been another of my personal favorite authors. What type of books do you like to read?

Suspense, romantic suspense, paranormal if it’s psychic or healers, not the horror side of paranormal.

I adore those genres <3 What do you like to do in your free time?

Read, bake, paint pictures, be with my family.

Ooo, you bake? I'll have to get some tasty recipes from you! And that's fantastic that you're a painter as well. I've always wanted to paint, but sadly, I have no talent whatsoever lol. Where is your favorite place to vacation?

I haven’t been on a vacation in so long I wouldn’t even know where to start. I will say that one of my favorite areas of the country to be in, is the South.

Having lived in the South and visited many times over the years, I share your love of the area :) If you were stuck on a desert island and could have only three things, what would they be?

A machete, a flint to start fires, and a tent.

How wonderfully practical :D Remind me to call you up if I'm ever on a deserted island! Are you a plotter or a pantser with your writing?

Neither. I dream my stories…like you go to the movies. So when I wake up, the whole story is already in my head. No writing by the seat of my pants because the story was ‘given to me’ in a dream. No plotting because the story is already there.


OMG, that's truly amazing. I love that that's how you get your stories!! Why did you choose to write romantic suspense?
 
I like happy ever after, (romance) and I am an adrenaline junkie when it comes to movies, books, etc… I’d rather watch Die Hard 12, than sit through something like Bridget Jones Diary or some kind of relationship movie. My all time favorite movie ever to have seen is AVATAR. I still wish I was 9 feet tall and blue and lived on Pandora. Omg.

Wow, I seriously couldn't agree more with you about watching Die Hard 12 than sitting through a sappy movie *shudder* What has been the most fun about working on your books?

I think probably bringing to life the people that I see in my head.

What has been the hardest scene for you to write?

Love scenes are getting harder because I’ve been writing/published for over 22 years. So 85 plus books and counting and I’ve pretty much written every kind of a love scene there is to write in my genre. SOOO now when I come to those scenes in the manuscript, I kind of take a deep breath and fight my way through them.  


LOL!! I can see how that would get to be a problem! Rest assured, your love scenes have never felt stale or boring to me :) Do you have any favorite characters? If so, why?

Yes, Jonah Gray Wolf in THE HEALER, and the ancient spirit WINDWALKER, in my last Dinah McCall book, WINDWALKER… Also, Cat Dupree in my female bounty hunter trilogy, NINE LIVES, CUT THROAT, and BAD PENNY. AND… Layla Birdsong/Singing Bird from the WINDWALKER.  

*sighs wistfully* I loved Jonah <3 Do you have any favorite books or series among all the ones you’ve written?

Favorite series might be my Rebel Ridge trilogy, NEXT OF KIN, DON’T CRY FOR ME, and TIL DEATH. Favorite books… THE HEALER, THE WARRIOR, WINDWALKER… and my first women’s fiction that I self-pubbed, A FIELD OF POPPIES, and my first fiction I wrote for Belle Books, THE BOARDING HOUSE.

I'm not going to lie, Rebel Ridge is right up there among my favorite series of all time. Then again, now that I've read Going Once, that may tie it lol. Tell us more about Rebel Ridge. Do you plan to write more books in this series?

No, that series is finished with the release of Til Death.

Aww, well there's always re-reading for me! Lovelies, definitely check out my review of 'Til Death! In book two of the Rebel Ridge series, Don’t Cry For Me, your characters deal with PTSD. As someone with a best friend in the Air Force, I love that you shed light on this condition so many of our returning soldiers face. Did you find it difficult to write about it?

Yes, it was difficult for me to write because I have a family member who suffers from this. He served two tours in Iraq, the last in Fallujah where he was wounded and sent home. It has destroyed who he was, and he struggles daily to find a way to live in this world.


It's so tragic that so many of our soldiers suffer after defending our country. It's important for people to understand that this is a devastating condition that affects so many lives. You have also self-published. How is this process different from working with your publisher?

One great big plus is there is no lag time between finishing it and getting it up for sale. I have enjoyed it immensely, have two out now, A FIELD OF POPPIES and WINDWALKER, and am at the present writing a third called A THOUSAND LIES. Poppies and Lies are written under my Sala name and are women’s fiction. Windwalker is a paranormal romance written under my pen name, Dinah McCall.

I definitely love the freedom of choosing my own timeline with self-publishing :) Do you have any advice for other authors?

If you’re passionate about wanting to be a writer, join a writer’s group. It’s the single best thing you can do for yourself, being in the company of other people on the same journey as you are on.

That is fantastic advice <3 What's next for you?

Always another book.

You have no idea how happy that makes me :D Anything else you want your readers to know?

That I appreciate them SO much, and they can reach me on Facebook.  I can also be reached at my website, www.sharonsala.net.  


Thank you so much for taking the time to visit my blog, Sharon!! It has truly been a pleasure having you here.

Now my lovelies, stick around for my review of Going Once and be sure to snag your copy today!!

About the book:

Publisher: Harlequin MIRA
Publication Date: September 24, 2013

My source for the book: Gift from author

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Description:

From New York Times bestselling author Sharon Sala comes a story of reignited passion set amidst a town reeling from disaster and the long shadow of a killer…  

As raging floodwaters engulf her Louisiana hometown Nola Landry is stranded on high ground, the unwitting witness to the brutal murder of three fellow survivors. Finally rescued in the aftermath of the storm, no one is willing to believe a story as horrific as hers—until three FBI agents arrive on the scene…one of whom Nola knows very well.

Tate Benton has been tracking the so-called Stormchaser serial killer for months, never expecting the trail might lead him home, or to the woman he cannot forget. Home is now a ravaged town full of memories—of love, of disappointment, of past mistakes. The investigation brings Nola back into his life. Long-buried feelings resurface, and the former lovers try to pick up the pieces in the wake of the disaster.  

Amid the relief effort the killer lingers, determined to silence Nola forever. In the Stormchaser's twisted mind the pain is far from over…and hers is just beginning.

WHAT I LIKED:

Sharon Sala is one of my all-time favorite authors for a reason. I can always count on her books to draw me in from the beginning and keep me enthralled for the entire book. She writes with a beautiful blend of romance and suspense that few authors can match in my opinion. This book was no exception. I loved the premise of the Storm Chaser and I can honestly say that as soon as I was finished with this book, I immediately started re-reading it...twice...in one weekend.

Tate and Nola have a history, but Sharon doesn't belabor the history. Yes, she makes it known that they each have scars from their past, but Nola doesn't hold a grudge. However, she doesn't forgive him straight away, either.

This is the first book in the Forces of Nature trilogy and it introduces an antagonist that will be present in all three books. He was an interesting villain and definitely something different. I look forward to seeing how Sharon continues to develop this character. This book also introduces the the heroes of the other books and I cannot WAIT to read more about these men. Sharon's characters are so rich and detailed, I instantly fall in love with them.


WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE:

My biggest complaint is that I have to wait for the next two books. I know that I'll be stalking the bookstores waiting for them to be released :D

OVERALL VERDICT: 5/5 Blue Duckies!

 

If you're in the mood for beautifully crafted romantic suspense with compelling characters and an intriguing plot, look no further than Sharon Sala! 

Interview with Charlie Daye!!

Hello lovelies! Who's ready for another exciting author interview? Today, the fantabulous Charlie Daye joins The Lindsay Show!! Everyone grab your coffee or tea and please help me welcome Charlie.

Thank you so much for stopping by, Charlie! When did you know you wanted to be a writer?

I actually started writing when I was 13 and it just kind of took off from there. 

Oh that's awesome to start at that age. When I was 13, I was still swearing I hated to write lol. If only I could go back in time and tell teenage me that I'd be an author 14 years later ;) What has been the most difficult part about being a writer?

Writers block... it's a pesky thing that seems to coincide with the disappearance of my muse Simone. She can be temperamental, that one. 

Ugh, I hate writers block. Luckily I've got a fantastic muse and some wonderful betas to help me with that :) Do you use a pen name? If so, how did you come up with your pen name?

Yes, Charlie Daye is a pen name. It's a combination of my real name and a family name. 

Very clever! Who are your favorite authors?

I Love Dean Koontz. I have read almost everything he has ever written. Other honorable mentions would be Kim Harrison, Lisa Jackson and Laurell K. Hamilton. 


Those are wonderful authors. I've never read much Dean Koontz, but what I've read is phenomenal. What type of books do you like to read?

I am a total fiction girl. I love paranormals, heart pounding suspense, thrillers, romance - although I do tend to steer clear of contemporary romance novels. 

I am very much the same way! What do you like to do in your free time?

Read, my TBR pile is way to long. I also love a really great action movie.

I'm pretty sure all of us could be crushed by the size of our TBR piles lol. Where is your favorite place to vacation?

Disneyland. 

*Gasp* A fellow Disney lover!!! Sorry, I always get excited to meet a fellow Disney lover :) If you were stuck on a desert island and could have only three things, what would they be?

My Kindle, my Ipod and Dominic Purcell! ha ha. 

LOL!! I love your priorities :) Who needs food or water when you've got those things? ;) Are you a plotter or a pantser with your writing?

I would like to say I'm a plotter but if truth be told I really do write by the seat of my pants. I may start out wanting to go in one direction but once I start writing my books have been known to take on a life of their own. Most of the time I have to look back at what I wrote and ask myself, "What the heck just happened here?" because it's not what I had planned. 

Absolutely nothing wrong with being a pantser. Fighting your story is a sure way to get yourself in trouble. Why did you choose to write a paranormal romance?

I'm a sucker for a good romance especially when it has a happy ending. I also have an obsession for the supernatural. So, it just made sense to put the two together. 

That is eerily similar to my logic behind writing paranormal romance :D What has been the most fun about working on your books?

Ooh.... that' an excellent question. It's a mixture of a few things. I love working on the covers. I also love the rush I get when my readers post on my author page asking me when the next book in a particular series will be released. It gives me such a rush!!

I couldn't agree more! That has to be one of the best feelings ever. What has been the hardest scene for you to write? 

In the Reservation (book 3 in my Curse Breaker's Trilogy) there was a gang rape scene. It's only like 5 pages long but it took me almost 2 weeks to write those 5 pages and there wasn't that much detail in them either. 

Oh wow, I can certainly understand how that would take you a long time to write. That must've been so difficult! Do you have any favorite characters? If so, why?

Markus, from Gypsy's Dance. He's the oldest of the Raydon Brothers and for some reason he seems to be the epitome of sexiness. I've found that he also seems to be a favorite among some of my female readers. Those some will admit that they'd be more than happy to take any of the Raydon boys home. 

Ooo, I'm intrigued now. Any time someone is described as "the epitome of sexiness," I must read more lol. How did you come up with the premise for Breeders?

The idea for Breeders came to me after talking to my BFF and a crazy thing that happened to her during a weekend trip to Vegas. I couldn't help but put her story to paper. Now granted, she was REALLY pissed off at me when she found out but once we got to talking about the story line she couldn't wait to read it. 

Ok, anything that happens in Vegas has GOT to be great inspiration! Tell us about the world/setting in Breeders. How did you come up with it and is any of it based on personal experiences?

The book itself takes place in several locations. It starts in Vegas, then moves to Huntington Beach, CA before winding up in The Colony - which is a fictional California location. Is it based on personal experience? Absolutely. Just not mine. 

That's awesome, I can't wait to dive into it! Tell us more about your main characters please.


My heroine's name is Sicily Chase. She's a 27 year old, plus size,  kindergarten teacher with an amazing personality and slight flare for the dramatic.

My hero's name is Auzi Reed. He's a Breeder who could sway you to his desires with a simple touch of his hand. He's more about protecting rather than manipulating and his father is head of their colony. 

My not so nice guy is Ripon Breed. He's also a Breeder whose special gifts fall under the sexual touch catagory. He's arrogant, self centered  and just an all around ass.



Can I just say I love your characters' names and they sound so interesting! Is there anything else you’d like to mention about Breeders?

You will meet a slew of interesting characters in this book. Some you'll love, some you'll hate. At times you'll find yourself really upset, perhaps a little turned on and by the end of the book you'll be cheering for the good guys. Breeders is a romance from start to finish. It's about instant connections and life long friends.


That sounds like the mark of a truly great book <3 Is this part of a series? If so, what can we expect with the other books?

I haven't decided if it's going to be part of a series yet or not. If you really love the book this could be really disappointing, I know. There are so many wonderful characters who deserve their own stories. The problem is I just haven't had any ideas come to mind yet - you just never know. 


Well, I know how it is to be at the mercy of your muse. Hopefully the ideas start flowing! What's next for you? 

I am currently in the process of writing a series of books about warrior women whose sole purpose is to hunt down the men that break women's hearts. We'll call them love's avenging angels. The stories are a little darker than what I normally write and I'm not sure how much romance if any will actually be involved but so far the initial reviews are very good. 


I'm loving that premise and cannot wait to hear more!! Anything else you want your readers to know?

I'm currently running a contest on my FB page for my readers. I'm looking for interesting stories to use as inspiration for an upcoming novel based on my readers' life experiences. If there is story is chosen it will be featured as the premise for an upcoming book and the winner will receive a signed copy of said book as a thank you! So, if anyone has a story to share they should stop by my author page and share it with me!



Lovelies, definitely check out that contest! Charlie, thank you so much for stopping by! It has been a pleasure getting to know you better :)

Breeders...Buy it Now!

My name is Sicily Chase. All I wanted was one last, fun filled girls's weekend in Vegas before summer break was over. I wanted to hang out by the pool, do some shopping, hit the clubs, meet a hot guy - you know let loose. Well, I did all that and then some but little did I know my one night stand would turn into so much more not to mention introduce me into a supernatural world I never knew existed.

Buy it Now:

• Amazon
• Barnes and Noble
• All Romance eBooks 

Meet Charlie!

Charlie Daye began writing at the tender age of thirteen. With an obsession for romance, happy endings and the supernatural she delves into your greatest fantasies and worst nightmares. She will have you laughing, crying, falling in love and getting angry. She will always give you a HEA but getting there is the journey worth taking.

Charlie Daye was born in Lynwood, California. Her greatest passions are music and writing. Her first short story was written at the age of thirteen. At the time her entire class was asked to write a short story for Halloween as part of a homework assignment. Most of the kids in the class wrote one to two page stories... Charlie wrote eight. The short story titled The Haunted House went on to win her district wide awards and was published locally. From their she began writing poetry as means of expression.

The House is her debut novel. The Colonial is her second full length novel. Stay tuned for more fun stories coming your way!

For updates on my books or just to spend some time in my fun and crazy world check out my webpage at charliedaye.com or find me on Facebook!

Connect with Charlie:

• Website
• Facebook

Interview and Review with A.D. Trosper!!

Hello my lovelies!! It's time to sit down with the fantabulously awesome A.D. Trosper! I had the pleasure of interviewing her as well as reading her book, Embers of Galdrilene, and may I say it's fantastic? I mean, seriously, you must read it :) But, we'll get to that in a bit. Who's ready for an interview!!

Thank you so much for joining me, A.D.! When did you know you wanted to be a writer? 

I wanted to be writer for a long time before I ever actually embarked on the journey.

That's wonderful <3 What has been the most difficult part about being a writer? 

Time. With three children, dairy goats (twice a day milking), chickens, and vegetable gardens, time is always a problem. Hmmm, and the evil Facebook that is always trying to suck my day away.

I can completely relate to a lack of time, not to mention the time sink that is Facebook lol. Do you use a pen name? If so, how did you come up with your pen name? 

Nope, I use my real name.


Nothing wrong with that :) Who are your favorite authors? 

That is a long list but I will try to name a few. In particular order: Robert Jordan, Anne McCaffrey, Stephen King, R.A. Salvatore, Clive Cussler, Mary Stanton, Christine Feehan, Katie Jennings, and a whole host of indie authors. I have come to greatly love reading indie authors.


Those are all fantabulous authors. Anne McCaffrey and Christine Feehan are particular favorites of mine :) What authors inspire you? 

Many of my favorites.


That's the same with me. What type of books do you like to read? 

As you can see from my favorites list, I have a very eclectic taste in books. So the books I like to read are the ones that interest me at that moment. Beyond that, I like books that take time to develop.


I love how eclectic your taste is. What do you like to do in your free time? 

Spend time with my family, spend time with my animals, read, watch Vampire Diaries, Gray’s Anatomy, Dexter, Homeland, and Deadliest Catch.


Ahh, Dexter...one of my favorite shows :) Where is your favorite place to vacation? 

I have dairy goats that have to be milked twice a day. I don’t vacation. :)


Hey, who knows? Maybe you could pile them into a truck and take them with you ;) If you were stuck on a desert island and could have only three things, what would they be? 

My family, a stock pile of food and water, and my Kindle.


That sounds perfect! Are you a plotter or a pantser with your writing? 

Pantser. If I plan too much, I lose my muse. Like me, she prefers barely controlled chaos to perfect order. We get along well.


Your muse sounds very similar to mine :D Why did you choose to write an epic fantasy?

I didn’t. It chose me. Characters show up in my head with their backstories and usually their names already known to them. I write what they tell me to write.


Don't you just love how that happens that way? What has been the most fun about working on your books? 

Editing. I know, I’m a total freak but I love revisions and edits.


*Long pause* I'm sorry, did you just say editing? LOL! Sorry, totally cannot relate hahaha. What has been the hardest scene for you to write?

None of them. As long as I listen to my characters, things flow pretty smoothly.


You are so so lucky! Do you have any favorite characters? If so, why? 

I love them all. Trying to choose a favorite would be like trying to choose a favorite among my children.


I can understand that :) How did you come up with the premise for your book? 

Again, I didn’t come up with it, it came to me.


We are running a bit low on time, but is there anything else you’d like to mention about your book? 

It survived the Writing Apocalypse and also won readers choice best in fantasy in the Turning the Pages book awards. It also won an IBD award.


That's fantastic! Congratulations :) Is this part of a series? If so, what can we expect with the other books? 

Yes, it is part of the series. The second book will be out this summer.


I cannot wait! What's next for you? 

After the Dragon’s Call series is finished (there will be a third book), I have a few characters in my head that live in the urban fantasy world, so I will start writing them.


Well, after reading this book, I cannot wait to see what else you right! Thank you so much for joining me, A.D.!! Anything else you want your readers to know before you go? 

I appreciate each and every one of them.



Lovelies, keep reading for my review of Embers of Galdrilene!

About the book:

Publisher: Silver Spring Publishing

Publication Date: May 4, 2012

My source for the book: Purchased

Genre: Epic Fantasy
Length: 496 pages

Description:

Embers of Galdrilene...Buy it Now!

“A ray of light, a stain of shadow, shall endure to breathe life and death into the future”

The war between the Guardians and the Shadow Riders ended in total devastation. The final battle killed all the dragons and left nothing but fields of ash. A small clutch of dragon eggs was all that remained to provide hope for the future.

Five hundred years later, the ability to use magic is a death sentence and dragons are remembered as a curse. But the unhatched dragons sing for their riders...and soon six lives will be changed forever.

The elements of magic are drawn together as the dragons’ call leads them on an epic and dangerous journey of discovery. They soon learn everything they've been taught to believe about magic and dragons is wrong.

With the last of the dragons and the world at stake, they will risk everything to heed the call.

But an evil from the past soon threatens their discovery and new found joy. Shadow Dragons ride the dawn once more...

WHAT I LIKED:

This is an epic fantasy, which I adore. Who doesn't love dragons in their books? A.D. wrote a very rich world. All too often with an epic fantasy, there can be a ramp up period where things are slow as the author sets up the world building and characters. This book dove straight into the action. The characters were compelling, there was plenty of new vocabulary and phrases introduced to help solidify that this is a fantasy world (LOVED dragon-blasted!), and it was so easy to immerse myself in this story. Though it's a long book, I found myself compelled to keep reading as fast as I could to find out what would happen next.


WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE:

I loved how immersive and detailed this world was, but at times it could get a little bit overwhelming. I feel like a compendium guide would be a fantastic thing to help keep everything straight.


OVERALL VERDICT: 5/5 Blue Duckies!!

If you're looking for a fantabulously immersive epic fantasy with wonderful characters, a fantastic setting, and its own set of vocabulary and phrases, you must read this book!

Meet A.D. Trosper!

Born in Kansas, I spent a lot of my childhood moving around. I've lived in Kansas, Oklahoma, Washington State (around Seattle), and southern California. I had many great adventures growing up. I'm now settled down in Kansas with my wonderful husband, three children, my wonderful dog Katie, assorted cats, and small flock of chickens.

I've been an avid lover of fantasy since I was young child. Dragons, elves, fairies, dwarves, and other denizens of the fantasy world as well as magic have always fascinated me. As I grew up, I developed an interest in vampires, zombies and my interests branched out to take in paranormal and urban fantasy.

I don't have any special writing credits to my name other than a wildly active imagination and the ability to form that imagination into written stories.

 Connect with A.D.:

• Facebook
• Blog/Website
• Twitter

Interview with Bill Sewell!!

Hello lovelies, please join me for another thrilling author interview!!! Let's welcome Bill Sewell to The Lindsay Show!! Before we get started, make sure you've got your yummy coffee or tea ready. I'm in Portland and still getting used to the time change so I'm definitely in need of my caffeine ;)

Thank you so much for joining me, Bill! When did you know you wanted to be a writer?

Interestingly, when I was in school I knew I did NOT want to be a writer. I hated writing. But what I couldn’t get away from was the fact that I was pretty good at it. I wrote my first technical piece when I was 26 years old. I sold it to Radio-Electronics Magazine for $400 and thought I was rich (obviously a few years ago). That’s when the light came on.


Yay! Someone else who hated writing in school, lol! What has been the most difficult part about being a writer?

I think the most difficult thing is time discipline. Like most writers, I have a day job and I have to squeeze writing between working and family. That can be hard, especially when deadlines loom. So, if you get an email from me at 3am, don’t be surprised.


Time management is definitely a major issue for me as well. Do you use a pen name? If so, how did you come up with your pen name?

I don’t use a pen name. I’ve been Bill all my life and when I first put the book together several people, including a publisher, said I should use William. But’s as far as I went.


Who are your favorite authors?

Right now I’m reading my first book by CJ Lyons and really enjoying it. I met her at ThrillerFest a couple of years ago and she is so nice in person but there is some creepy stuff going on in her author mind. I really like Lee Child, Joe Finder, Robert Ludlum, Jeff Deaver, Lisa Gardner, all thriller authors. I also enjoy historical fiction like Sharon Kay Penman.


LOL I love how you described CJ Lyons :) What authors inspire you?

I read all of Tom Clancy’s early stuff and all of Vince Flynn. As I have a background in Intelligence and National Security, I thought perhaps I could write this kind of story and make it interesting as well. Now I read all of the authors I mentioned earlier and take a little of the best from each.


Those are fantastic authors. What type of books do you like to read?

I read thrillers, crime thrillers, spy thrillers, historical thrillers. Did I mention thrillers? :) 


Hmm, I think you left out a genre. Do you like thrillers? What do you like to do in your free time?

Free time…I’ve heard of that. What is it again? :) Much of my free time late at night I read or play video games, not the first person shooter kind but the ones where you role play and solve crimes or puzzles: Skyrim, Assassin’ Creed. I like thriller, spy, intrigue kinds of games.


I adore those video games! Where is your favorite place to vacation?

I’ve traveled all over the world for work and pleasure so that’s a tough one. If had to pick one place, it might be Amsterdam or Copenhagen. I’ll just have to say Europe. I love the rich historic connection I feel almost anywhere there.


I've always wanted to visit those places. I've only ever been to Spain and Italy in Europe. If you were stuck on a desert island and could have only three things, what would they be?

A loaded e-reader, a bottomless box of ginger snaps, and a nuclear powered laptop. I mean what else do you need? A fridge full of Diet Coke?


Congratulations Bill, I do believe you're the first person to ever say you wanted a nuclear powered laptop, lmao. Are you a plotter or a pantser with your writing?

I started as a pantser because I thought, “I know the story so I’ll just tell it.” (loud buzzer goes off and I’m covered with a big red “X”) It didn’t work at all. On the other hand I’m not organized enough to be a detailed plotter. Lisa Gardner once told me she writes every scene and sub-scene on index cards and covers her kitchen floor with them so she can meticulously organize the plot. Apparently, it works really well for her. I strike a balance with a skeleton plot that I can follow so I don’t forget anything or repeat myself. But I can still drape the story on the framework as I see the movie play in my head.


Holy crap, I don't think I could ever do what Lisa does. Wow. Good for her though if it works for her! Why did you choose to write a thriller?

I’ve always liked thriller stories and have lived a few in my time. I think a lot of the attraction for me is an intense dislike of bullies and a strong desire to see the karmic energy in the universe balanced. That sounds a bit new age and I’m not that type of person but as one who has been bullied and then gotten even, it was a very gratifying experience. I can relive that in books that I read and write.


I think that's an amazing reason for writing a thriller :) What has been the most fun about working on your books?

For me, the most fun is finally getting it right. Like most authors, I write and tweak and re-write. Michael Creighton said, “Books aren’t written, they are rewritten.” When I can put it aside, come back and the passage speaks to me, it’s a great feeling. I also have the “goose-bump test” which is often fun. I give the particularly creepy passages to my wife. When she reads them, then shivers, then throws the pages at me, I know they’re ready for the book.


Hahaha, that's the best test ever. What has been the hardest scene for you to write?

The hardest scenes are the ones where the macho main character gets all mushy with the beautiful heroine and they talk about feelings and emotions and the like. I’m an engineer by training and disposition. I’m actually and extroverted engineer which is why I’m looking at your shoes instead of mine as we talk. Anyway, engineers are more into facts than feelings. So I have a writing partner who helps with the “girlie” stuff while I concentrate on shooting, mayhem and blowing stuff up.


Hey, I'm a girl and love shooting, mayhem and blowing stuff up :) How did you come up with the premise for your book?

I spent many years in US Intelligence and more as a security expert helping governments and businesses. My wife, also in Intelligence told me one day that I should write down some of my experiences. Well, most of them are still classified so I decided to come up with a fictional character who, if I were careful, could have some of the same adventures. So Peyton Stone was born.

Now I needed a story. One day I was in Abu Dhabi working on security concepts for a new Guggenheim Museum and while I was going through threat scenarios I realized that I was at the site of an iconic Jewish-American institution forty miles from the Iranian coast. There was nothing between me and Iran but water. What an opportunity for some crazy terrorist. After two solid days of “what if?” the story for Nonofficial Asset gelled.


I think that's so awesome that you worked in Intelligence. I take it you based a lot of events in your book around your experiences?

Most of the adventures are based on my own experiences and places I’ve been. Most of the characters are based on real people. But, of course, it’s a work of fiction. We have had many years of strained relations with Iran and I thought, “What if we put that behind us and signed a treaty? And what if not everyone was behind the treaty? And what if these people somehow got their hands on a nuclear weapon (or two)? And finally, what if they had the means and motivation to use them?” What would we do in a case like that? Well, read the book and find out.


I can't wait to read this. It sounds fantastic! Tell us more about your main characters please.

Peyton Stone grew up in the South, Georgia to be exact. He has a talent that was nurtured by his father, a Federal Probation Officer. He is arguably one of the best rifle shots in the world. That helps him in some of his adventures. He has built a career and a company as a security expert and has advised governments and businesses, even the Super Bowl on matters of security. As a Nonofficial Asset his private life as a security expert is his cover story. It’s how he gets close to foreign leaders.

A couple of years ago he made some enemies in the Middle East and they tried to kill him with a car bomb but got his wife instead. He went through a dark time but is dealing with it now. He can sometimes get reckless because he cares a lot less about his own life than he once did but he’s dealing with that as well. All of this together makes him tough, fearless and able to take on challenges that others would balk at. He hates bullies and will go out of his way to balance the scales of justice.


Well, now I'm even more excited!! Is there anything else you’d like to mention about your book?

I just had such a great time writing it and hope that everyone has an even better time reading it and getting to know Peyton Stone and his friends.


Tell me, is this part of a series? If so, what can we expect with the other books?

It is a series and the next book is due out this year. Its working title is Critical Asset and in it a laid off and now very angry former NASA scientist comes up with a way to control almost anything digital. Working with hackers from overseas, he begins to exercise his control over the power grid, financial systems and even the life and death of individual people. It will be the biggest challenge yet for Peyton Stone and his team. Two early scenes have already passed the “goose bump test” and I’m working to the end of the first draft and will then start the rewrites.


Yay, love finding new series to read!! What's next for you?

I just sent a copy to a screen agent so I’m working on the movie deal. But as everyone knows, that’s always a very long shot. I’m signing books here and there, the LA Times Festival at USC, the BEA Convention in New York in May and I’m waiting for the results of a couple of award nominations.


Oh wow, that's so exciting! Good luck with that! Anything else you want your readers to know?

This has been a real blast and I truly appreciate your having me on The Lindsay Show. Thank you!!


Thank you so much for joining me, Bill! It has been a thrill ;) Lovelies don't miss the book that's Goodreads Listopia #1 Best Spy Novel!!

Nonofficial Asset...Buy it Now!

Peyton Stone never quit his day job. But it's his other profession that might just get him killed.

Islamabad. Baghdad. Shanghai. Kazakhstan, Kabul. Langley. For Peyton Stone, that's a work commute. But his is no normal job. On the surface he's a world-renowned security expert. But his real occupation is serving as a "nonofficial asset," a contractor working for the CIA when the government needs complete deniability. While advancing American interests globally, Stone discovers that those interests can exact a steep personal price. And when his business partner is murdered in a Shanghai hotel, ominous ghosts from his past return and he's drawn deeper into the covert maze, on the hunt for a stolen nuclear weapon and the rogue Iranian admiral hell-bent on using it. In Nonofficial Asset his skills, training, tactics, mettle, and allegiance to family and country are all pushed to the limit as he races to prevent nuclear catastrophe.

A captivating international espionage cliffhanger, William Sewell's new spy thriller is not some fake fantasy conjured by an uninformed novice writer working from his safe, local Starbucks. This is an adroitly told tale of very real and likely scenarios by someone who has been in some, if not most, of these dark bunkers--and lived to tell about it. A 30-year veteran of the clandestine services, William Sewell is a communications security expert by day. But like Peyton Stone, he has another profession. Exploiting his behind-enemy-lines intelligence experience, Sewell infuses Nonofficial Asset with an authenticity that can only be gained from real-world experience in the trenches.

Buy it Now:

• Amazon US (ebook and paperback)
• Barnes and Noble (ebook)

Meet Bill!

If William “Bill” Sewell believes in a guiding principle, it comes from world champion racecar driver Mario Andretti, who said, “If things seem really under control, you’re not going fast enough.” Sewell spends his life pushing to find that razor's edge between velocity and control.

Rasied in Dublin, Georgia, Sewell began his clandestine adventuring as a boy, with rifle in hand, hunting imaginary Nazis, the Japanese army, and even Yankees in the Peachtree state’s backwoods. A Vietnam and U.S. Air Force veteran, Sewell left military service to become a contractor for the U.S. government. In addition to working with the Departments of State and Defense, as well as the Federal Aviation Administration, Sewell also consulted on security matters with the governments of Kuwait, Australia, India, Oman, Abu Dhabi, Hong Kong, China, Canada, and even with the European Council of Mayors. But Sewell also pursued an alternative profession—with the U.S. intelligence community.

“There’s a thrill to participating in covert enterprises. And of course there’s the patriotic aspect of doing some good for your country. Unfortunately, I’m not yet at liberty to talk about much of what we did. But we had a lot of fun. . . .”

Though his speech is carefully measured, it’s clear that Sewell experienced a lot during his tenure. For example, while a contractor with the State Department’s Diplomatic Security Branch, Sewell witnessed tectonic political shifts that had real consequences in the field. “The end of the Cold War was a strange time because the rules were changing in the Soviet bloc at different rates in different places. For us, the challenge was that some of the good guys became bad guys and some bad guys became good guys. It was a very fluid and uncertain situation. So to be safe, we pretty much trusted no one.”

Sewell also experienced the direct effects of what can be a very dangerous business. “At the end of the first Gulf War I went over to Kuwait, working with their interior ministry. Aside from the terrible cost in lives, the war had turned Kuwait into a pile of rubble. The old bustling Suk (marketplace) ceased to exist. Our huge hotel? There were only six functional rooms left, because Iraqi soldiers tossed a grenade in each room as they walked out. The Iraqi army blew up or stole everything of value; they even pinched an entire roller coaster from an amusement park! But the Kuwaitis were determined to rebuild, and they did a spectacular job. I was very proud to work with them in the years after the war.”

In addition to his work abroad, Sewell has provided security expertise for numerous domestic events and venues—including the Super Bowl, NFL and MLB stadiums, airports, infrastructure, and many corporate headquarters and locations.

Putting his remarkable experience to good use, Sewell has now penned Nonofficial Asset, a clandestine thriller featuring his doppelganger, Peyton Stone. It is the first installment in the Asset series.

William Sewell lives with his wife in Southern California.

Connect with Bill:

• Website
• Twitter (Author)
• Twitter (Peyton Stone)