Windham, New Hampshire, local fiction Author

I am delighted to introduce my lovely writer friend Jennifer Smith, who shares my passion and determination for crafting stories that readers will love. Her debut adult fiction novel Flying Backwards was released in August 2015, and she is currently working on a fantasy trilogy!  


Jennifer W Smith lives in a quaint New Hampshire town with her husband and two children. Her kitty, a beautiful blue-eyed Balinese is always nearby, and she’s recently adopted a four-year-old collie who’s made herself at home.  She debuted her first woman’s fiction novel in late August of 2015 titled FLYING BACKWARDS.

                                             About the book: FLYING BACKWARDS

Would it be exciting to travel to exotic places, meet a man who makes your heart summersault, and become a person you admire?  Eleanor (Nora) Clark realizes the key to an interesting life is eluding her. Never leaving the small Pennsylvania town she grew up in, living in a house her fiancé bought his ex-girlfriend, and spending weekends helping in the family business. She realizes life is passing her by as her twenty-ninth birthday looms on the horizon. Why hasn’t she taken any gutsy chances in life?

On a whim, she applies to become a flight attendant. Suddenly, she is jetting off to London, Rome, and St. Petersburg where she finds herself romantically entangled with three very different suitors. Eleanor’s new life exceeds all her wildest dreams.To find fulfillment, Eleanor must discover success, confidence, friendship, and love. As her daydreams become reality, the choices she makes both build and break her heart. But her last choice decides it all.

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I thought it might be fun to ask you some questions so the readers out there can get to know you a little better....

1.      Who is your favorite author and do you aspire to write like him or her?

I don’t have one favorite author. I think it’s their particular story that touches me and sticks with me. If you read a lot, it’s like treasure hunting, and I know I get excited when I finish that one book in a pile of many, that I could start reading all over again.

2. How do you come up with ideas for your stories?

I like history, traveling, reading…things in my everyday life spark ideas, and then, I hunt down more information to support my budding story.

3. Your first book was an adult fiction story and I hear you're writing an adult fantasy trilogy. Was that switch hard for you and what was the inspiration behind that series?

Switching from mainstream romance to fantasy isn’t hard for me. Both require believable characters and a solid storyline. It’s a little more fun writing fantasy because I get to invent a new realm and all the creatures in it. When I was a teenager I was writing fantasy, so I decided to give it another go.

4. Being a busy mom, with two kids, how do you manage your writing? 

I write around their schedules, mostly when they are at school. I’m the mom on her laptop in the parking lot during dance and soccer practice.

5. You are a self-published author, do you think you will try to submit to a traditional publisher?

During the last nine months, I’ve finished my first novel and set out to publish it on my own. I’ve worked so hard learning how to hire an editor, cover artist, build my own website, market, and so much more. I’m not saying I’ll never submit to a traditional publisher, but I’m doing pretty well on my own.

6. Any advice for aspiring authors?

Becoming an author was a dream come true for me. I worked hard to make it happen, that said, it was my passion. So if having a book published is your passion, it is attainable.

7. Aside from writing and being a mom what hobbies do you enjoy?

I’ve dabbled in many things from scrapbooking to knitting, but I always enjoy traveling to interesting places and learning local traditions. I also love jigsaw puzzles – I think of it as linking a story together.

8. How do you cope with stress or bad days when nothing is going right?

As Scarlett O’Hara  said “Tomorrow is another day.”

9. What is the BEST part about being an author?

Aside from personal fulfillment of achieving a life-long goal, when a stranger tells me they LOVE my story, not only is it validating, but humbling and my heart swells. Also, if I can be an inspiration to others, that too, brings me great joy.

10. What do you see happening for you as an author in 2016?

In 2016, I’ll be working on writing and releasing three books in the Broken Water Series. I’ll be releasing the first book in this adult fantasy series The Lavender Pearl in the spring. The second book in the Broken Water Series is being worked on now, and may be released as early as the fall of 2016. I will also be scheduling book signings and I look forward to meeting fans!

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Guest author Dilys J Carnie

I'd like to welcome the lovely Welsh romance author Dilys J Carnie, who has been my go-to person for several years. When I had a question about writing and the publication process, Dilys was there! I have read several of her twelve books, and I can tell you she spins a lovely story with ease.

Dilys J Carnie


My home is on the beautiful island of Anglesey on the west coast of North Wales. Anglesey has been my home since the age of eleven after moving here with my mum and dad and three sisters from Scotland.
I'm the proud mother of two grown children. My daughter Emma is a primary school teacher, and my son Christopher is part of the family business.
I'm a health freak and a vegetarian. Pilates class combined with visiting the gym at least four times a week keeps me fit. I love clothes, makeup, and having my nails and hair done. I'm just a girl's girl.
If I'm not in my office pounding the keys I'm sitting in my favourite chair reading books and discovering new authors on my Kindle.
As a young child I loved to write. I always carried a notebook and pen around with me and wrote about everything. I never thought for one moment I would ever be able to pick up a book with my name on it and say "I wrote that". It was a dream come true when I signed with a publisher for my first book in November 2012. So, dare I say at the young age of fifty I think it's time for me to see if those dreams are everything that I hope they will be.
http://www.dilysjcarnie.com/
https://www.facebook.com/dilysj.carnie.3
http://dilys-j-carnie.blogspot.co.uk/
Chester in England, Llanberis in Wales and Kinneff in Scotland.

Three glories places to spend a romantic Christmas, A chance to be naughty and nice with men who we would all like to find in our Christmas stockings. 

One touch…one moment in time.

Belle Jones never did anything that wasn't planned…that was until she met Ethan Thompson on one steamy afternoon.

Now he’s come looking for her and he discovers more than he bargained for.

Belle is trying to come to terms with her first Christmas on her own. Until Ethan throws all her plans out the window and leaves her with a decision to make.

Will the secret she is hiding from this man bring them together or push them apart?

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Blurb
Holly Berry is grateful to be alive... so she has a new bucket list. No more nice girl for the new Holly... this year her wish for Santa is on the naughty list.
Noah Miller plays Santa Claus at Snowdrop House, where he is surprised to find a very grownup...and willing...Holly Berry on his knee. He’d never guessed that a Santa costume and twenty-four hours would make such a difference to his Christmas.
Will this little sexy little bundle of fun who rocks his world change his future too?

Amazon UK
Amazon USA

Blurb
Come to the Scottish Highlands for a delightful romance. Skye heads off to a remote village for peace and quiet over Christmas but doesn't factor in Callum McIntyre, the man broke her heart ten years ago. When she is snowed in and has to stay at his cottage...will she be able to resist his charms this time...or does she really want to?

Amazon UK
Amazon USA

NEW BOOK RELEASE!

The last two months have been busy with personal issues, which are now resolved and getting my YA trilogy back out there for readers as my publisher closed its doors suddenly in September. As you can imagine it's been a tough time. Eighteen months ago, I signed a contract and was delighted to have some validation of my work, but in all honesty, it's been a bumpy ride.

Through the summer, I had decided to self-publish my first adult paranormal, but I hadn't anticipated having to use every penny that I had earned to re-publish my books and pay for the editing and art work for the third book.

Anyway, this is life, and you have to roll with it. I am very fortunate that I could  start over, and I'm happy to say the books are all available on Amazon worldwide. I'm also delighted that I managed to complete the books I set out as my goals for 2015.

Releasing Capturing the Last Welsh Witch is really the icing on the cake.

I have a new editor and cover artist, and I am very happy working with both ladies!  My goals for 2016 are to keep writing, I have 2 projects that are started, possibly a sequel, and another series all good fun....

If you pop over and like my author page, make sure you leave a comment and you'll be entered in a competition to win an ARC copy of Capturing the Last Welsh Witch.

                                                        Capturing the Last Welsh Witch

Ella Masters’s soul is five hundred years old and in each life, she has been fatally betrayed by men. This is her fifth and final life, and legend says she must meet her true love or this time death is eternal. Wanted for the murder of her latest boyfriend and on the run from the FBI, as well as the ruthless group the Elusti, it doesn’t bode well for any would-be suitors.

Marcus Drayton has a sixth sense when it comes to knowing people, which has helped in his career as a special agent for the FBI, as well as his previous stint as a Navy SEAL. His latest assignment is to deliver Ella Masters, the Witch, which will give him the prized promotion in New York. After he meets the mysterious Ella, and realizes the Elusti are involved, the ghosts of his past force him to seek the truth, making every one he loves a target.

As she runs for her life and freedom, Ella needs to discover whether Marcus is the warrior she needs. And can she trust him with her heart and soul before it’s too late?



                                                        A little snippet from the beginning!


Her fingers touched the torn edges of the material and she stared into the distance, blinking as an old memory shook her.
“Come here, before I come and get you.” Aidan’s voice was deep and hoarse. His piercing eyes glared into hers, and she looked back as she contemplated her options. She glanced toward the door; if she moved, he would grab her. She could try to seduce him. However, that would be hopeless with Aidan. No, the only way was to trick him.
Aidan inched closer. So close, she could smell his musky aftershave. Ella let him get closer still. Let him think he had won. Her heart pounded violently against her ribs, but still she waited, barely breathing. Aidan inched closer, his eyes never leaving her face.
“Are you ready to admit defeat?” He raised one eyebrow, and his mouth spread into a lazy smile.
“Never, Professor.” She flicked her leg outward and kicked as hard as possible, just like he had taught her.
“What the…” He fell to the ground, doubled over and clutched his stomach.
Sucking on her lower lip, she hesitated before she turned away. That split second of doubt was her undoing. Arms came from nowhere and grabbed her legs. Whoosh. The view of the room shifted, and the floor went from under her feet. She ended up flat on her back, with Aidan’s body impaling her to the floor.
“Never trust the enemy,” he said.
She spluttered and coughed as the memory swirled away. Professor Aidan O’Connor was an enigma: a historian, friend, pretend-lover, and expert at martial arts. He’d taught her how to use her body as a weapon.
“But last night wasn’t practice, was it? Aidan, what have you done?”

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The end of the Children of Annwn series!

It’s incredible to me that after six years of writing, I’ve finally finished the Children of Annwn series. What started out as a cathartic outpouring of my own journey wrapped up in a tender romantic fantasy evolved into something so much more, but one that continued to mirror my own challenges in life and writing.  I know as a writer that I’m not alone is using life experiences as a basis for the characters we create, but I didn't realize or plan it that way.  

The series is a voyage of self-discovery for Mia Leronde who transforms from this insecure high-school student into a determined and powerful caster that is driven by her love of her family, friends, and Ryder. The series is about the power of love, the meaning of family, overcoming the challenges in life, and learning to accept who we are despite our insecurities and fears.

In six years, a lot has changed as I have gone from being signed with a small publishing company to being self-published like over-night. It wasn't a complete shock but a HUGE learning curve. I'm taking each experience in my stride, not losing sight of what I want which is to write. I will weigh up all the pro's and con's to help me decide where my future lies.

However, the writing is my focus all the rest is icing on the cake and I still approach publishers and agents with caution as I like not feeling as if  I'm having a heart attack as I approach the finish rushing to get to the deadline even though I impose my own. I like having control over the price and as for promoting well I have to do it anyway!

After six years, I still LOVE writing and ideas are always bouncing around for further stories, even if bit by bit I'm becoming more of a recluse. Does anyone else feel like this?

I am my biggest cheerleader even when the tides of negativity threaten to drown me.I believe I can write stories that are entertaining and that readers will enjoy and therefore, I keep marching along to my own band!

I get highly anxious when I’m not writing almost as if I will forget how to write. Like guilt driven panic attacks, anyone else?? 

The promoting and marketing side is another issue, and I have to embrace this and push harder to get the stories out. I think this will definitely be a goal for 2016 because I NEED help!!!! 

Anyway for now, I’m delighted to wallow in the glory of the fact that I have finished the trilogy as often I felt an incredible impatience to get it down on paper before I lost my focus.

Writing is not easy, don't let anyone tell you that. It's very personal. The reader gets to see how your brain ticks, and what is in our heart and soul. It makes us very vulnerable. However, just like cooking a fantastic dinner, there is nothing better than sharing that meal with friends and having a good laugh. I want to share my stories with you, and make you laugh and cry. I hope I manage that. 

                        Snippet from the Power of the Gilgamesh release date Friday 16th October 2015.

“There was a soft voice singing ever so quietly, more like a whisper, I guess, but I could hear every word. It was as if the girl or woman—I don’t know how old she is—was guiding me somewhere. This place is special, don’t you feel it?” Mia studied each one in turn before resting her stare on Malachi.

“Why do we always end up in damp bloody forests freezing our nuts off,” Tristan said. Ryder and Malachi laughed.

“This isn’t funny. None of this is funny. Brianna has disappeared, and you let her go, Tristan. I guess, I’m to blame as well because after Tyler left I have been pre-occupied with everything, which left Brianna grieving alone.”

“That’s not true. She wasn’t alone. I just couldn’t reach her,” Tristan spoke into the light breeze that was rustling through the trees and leaves.

“Back to the voice, because it doesn’t matter how or why we’re here, but here we are. What was the song about?” Malachi raised his eyebrow, staring at Mia with his hands joined together as if praying with his thumbs resting on his chin. Mia breathed out, trying to focus and recall the words of the song. She closed her eyes.

“If ever there were fairies surely this is where their tiny feet would tread in a woodland full of bluebells where the air smells so sweet…”

“Stop, does this have a point because I hate to say it, but I agree with Tristan, my feet are cold and damp,” said Lucas.

“Shut up Lucas, Mia’s right, this place is special and the magic around us is very powerful, powerful enough to call out to her, so we must be on our guard. Now go on, but if you can skip anything that isn’t relevant that would be good,” Malachi smirked at Mia and placed his hands around his back. As Mia sucked a deep breath in, she stared at Lucas, Ryder, Tristan, Dr. Mathews and Malachi, who started pacing back and forth. Skip anything that may be irrelevant. How was she supposed to know? Again, she closed her eyes and focused on the song and the words, letting the sweet melody roll over her brain until she could see it clearly written like a poem in her mind, and she read the words picking and choosing what she thought was important.

“If there was a doorway to another world, this is where it would be hidden, among the wild bluebells and sacred leafy trees. I think the portal is here somewhere, but the last line or two is a warning,” she said, staring over at Ryder. “Time passes and yet forever the bluebells return, spreading like wildfire swaying with the breeze, carrying their delicate perfume, captivating all but beware those who dare to enter Fairyland. For once there, you may never want to leave...” she said slowly with a haunting voice that left everyone silent for a moment. Malachi scratched his head, staring at Lucas, and then he rubbed his mouth with his hand.

“Okay, so there is a portal near. I think we should keep walking. How far do these woods go on for?” Malachi asked, staring at Dr. Mathews. Until now, Dr. Mathews had been silent, simply plodding along with the group, but he pushed himself in front with his hands in the pockets of his dark-blue  jeans and stared at Ryder whilst he fumbled with his MET device.

Not everything goes to plan!

 I don’t think anyone goes through life problem free. How you decide to deal with them is another thing! You can either choose to face them and figure something out or ignore them.

For a while, I have ignored one, and unfortunately everything erupted at once.

Several stressors collided like an explosion that rocked my foundation. To be honest, I’m still feeling the after-effects of some.

It’s so true when you meet people you have no clue about the battles they face. For days, I didn’t know how to pull myself out from a very dark place where I simply wanted to cry all the time. I wanted to chuck everything in and my body wasn’t helping me either as I lacked any energy or drive. My hormones were surging making me tearful which didn't help at all in making any kind of plan.

I like to keep busy to take my mind off of the issues but every now and then it all seeps back and some problems, you know, you cannot solve and those are the most heartbreaking.

However, my hubbie of nineteen years, which must be love, right, has been my rock. He’s supported me and allowed me to wallow for a day, and then we talked and talked about the future and how we’re able to help with a family issue. He’s such a good man. He came up with suggestions and ideas to help me when I couldn’t.

On a professional matter, he has helped me after I made the decision to self-publish my Children of Annwn series when my publishing company closed their doors at the beginning of September.  My professional life is crazy busy, but I have control now and I’m happy with this. I feel overwhelmed with all there is to learn about self-publishing, but I have a brilliant band of friends who have heaps of experience of this and it’s due to them, that I decided to take this route.

Children of Annwn Amazon USA      $3.99

Children of Annwn: The Battle Amazon USA     $3.99
Children of Annwn:The Promise Amazon UK       2.50
Children of Annwn:The Battle Amazon UK            2.50

 I planned  to self-publish my first adult paranormal, Capturing the Last Welsh Witch, but I now find myself self-publishing all four of my books, so I’m a little busy right now…

However, come October, I will be taking some time out as the health issue, I had been ignoring will be finally addressed. Therefore, I am not certain about my timeline for the book releases they will get out there when I can honestly say, I’m happy, and they’re ready. As I’m the boss, I definitely have a deadline, and I am a hard taskmaster, but I will not rush and if it has to wait, then so be it.

I know love. I know sorrow. I know pain, and this is life. I will embrace it in all its beautiful forms because in this way, I know I’m still alive. Life is precious and a gift.

No matter what I face, I will always try to keep the writing going because it’s what I love to do.       

                                         

Writing in the Summer!

Writing to a deadline is hard, writing during the summer with the kids around is almost impossible, but like the saying above if I waited for the perfect time I may never write at all.

I have to write or I get frustrated, and even if I know it’s not the best I could do it is something on the screen that I can go back and improve upon.

This summer has taught me several things.

1. I can work to a deadline.

2. I will not apologize for putting my writing before my social life.

3. Guard your writing time.

4. I still love the creative writing process.

5. I can adapt.

On August 11^th my second installment in the YA romantic fantasy, Children of Annwn series was released in print. This always means so much to me. Having the actual book in my hands is confirmation that my writing is really out there. As I promote this book, I’m also writing and finishing my first adult paranormal romance, Capturing the Last Welsh Witch which I have penned for release by the end of 2015. I have at least two further books I need to finish, as well as an idea for another series. I have managed to find time to stay connected to my writers group and that I always find inspiring. I also visited an author event at Haverhill library and was able to chat with an eclectic mix of writers who were fascinating and it gave me great insight into the set- up of such events as I hope to be one of those authors next time!

The Battle in print

The Battle in kindle

I would LOVE some help with reviews if you have read  the book and if not, please spare five minutes after reading it to post your comments. I will love you forever....

                                         

Me with my two books in the Children of Annwn series, such a wonderful feeling. The future is looking great, and I’m open to anything that comes my way. Oh, I also had time for a holiday in Canada at Niagara on the Lake. Amazing, and I spent time with my sister and her family which was fabulous but over too soon.


                                                              

I am planning a giveaway on Goodreads which starts next week on the 27th, will post details, and I have another competition in September, details to follow. To keep up to date with all the goings on check out my facebook page, or website both included below.

Facebook

Website

Is it LUCK?

Mr, D sent me an email the other day after we had been discussing the latest sales figures for my books. Attached to the email was an article from The Wall Street Journal which I have included as a link for you to read at you leisure. Anyway, when I read the post, I was totally blown away, and I truly haven't been able to stop thinking about Hugh Howey! Not because he's gorgeous and sexy, although he does look pretty cute, no because this man, a former college dropout who has worked as a yacht captain, a roofer, and a bookseller before self-publishing has achieved such phenomenal success.

Hugh Howey is the author of the best-selling Wool series!

Initially, he was selling Wool at 99c as an e-book novella in 2011, which is now available on Amazon at $5.99.

The five-part post-apocalyptic series is set in a time when the thousands of human survivors live in an enormous, 144 story underground silo. 

Blurb from Amazon!

"This is the story of mankind clawing for survival, of mankind on the edge. The world outside has grown unkind, the view of it limited, talk of it forbidden. But there are always those who hope, who dream. These are the dangerous people, the residents who infect others with their optimism. Their punishment is simple. They are given the very thing they profess to want: They are allowed outside."

This guy was selling 20,000-30,000 digital copies A MONTH!!! What the heck???

How does one do that? He was making so much money he was able to give up his day job and focus on writing further books in the series which is mind-blowing and I'm left wondering what on earth do I need to do to make it happen to me?

High Howey has sold over a half a million copies of his digital books and has over 10, 000 reviews on Amazon. I am totally fascinated by his story and rise to fame because in a world in which millions of books are published every year how in all that's holy do you make YOURS stand out???

My next question is once a wonderful and incredible book-loving person takes that chance on your unknown and first novel, how do you get them to post a review?

Did he pay for reviews? Have multiple friends post them? Blackmail, ply them with gifts of chocolate and wine, it would be enough for me but honestly whatever his strategy it worked big time! I would LOVE for him to write a step-by-step guide as to what he did and then I would follow it in the hopes of achieving a modicum of his success. I understand he was active on Goodreads which although I'm a member, I don't lurk there often, but I will definitely be searching to see if the readers of YA Fiction are there AND willing to leave those precious reviews. 

Obtaining reviews still doesn't guarantee success. If your story sucks, the reviews will suck too which brings me back to this, no matter your background or how your journey started as an author if you have a GREAT story it will sell.

I BELIEVE THAT!

And you just need one great story to bring attention to you as an author and hey ho Ridley Scott may come calling to buy the movie rights to your books? 

Congratulations, Mr. Hugh Howey, I'm pleased for your success and very, very jealous!

The Wall Street Journal

Author Kenzie Michaels in the spotlight....

Well, it's Thursday 23rd April, the sun is shining and feeling a lot like spring, so whilst I head into Boston with my boys my author friend KENZIE MICHAELS is taking over, thanks....




Thank you for having me today Jennifer!  I decided to continue from yesterday’s glimpse into NiKoh’s sister SaLie’s secondary storyline, which foreshadows what is to come in book #3.  I hope you find this humorous; sometimes my sense of humor comes out in strange ways.  With all the stress NiKoh has been under, I thought a bit of comic relief was in order.  What is more humorous than teasing your sister when she’s about to give birth?  Sibling rivalry is always fun to write.
                                                   

Blurb:

Still mourning the tragic death of his beautiful mate, could another Chosen one already be waiting for NiKoh SiLah? To avoid what he’s not ready to accept, he throws himself into his work at Planet Security. 

Leaving the Academy behind to follow her dream of working with animals, GiNae SoJae returns home. Preoccupied with work and not ready to take a mate, she’s horrified when her body enters Maturity. GiNae fights the changes occurring within her. But during nightly dreams she cannot control, an unknown man teaches her the secrets of her body.

Will NiKoh and GiNae succumb to the paths they think have been chosen for them or will they discover the true Chosen life that awaits them? 

Blurb:

“What she sees in that ice cold monster is beyond me. How did someone like him become so entangled with that odious, repugnant excuse of lowlife scum?”

“Maybe opposites attract.” NiKoh set down the bundle he’d brought from home. “What room is she in? I’d like to let her know I’m here.”

ReNei pointed a needle. “Through those doors, down the hall, and third door on the left.”

He followed her instructions, then with a deep breath, pasted a smile on his face, knocked twice and entered.

“So you’ve got a go-getter in there, Salichi?” Hoping her nickname would clear the air between them, he crossed to her side and ruffled her damp magenta hair.

She scowled. “The doctor warned me about teleporting this close, but we were late coming home from—oh!” Her face contorted with a contraction, and she grabbed NiKoh’s arm, nearly cutting off the circulation.

“Easy, Salichi.” Ignoring the pain in his arm, he counted with her, in order to get her through the pain. “Didn’t they teach you at the birthing classes?”

“I didn’t take any.” SaLie panted as she lay back. “I would have had to inform the Elders, and since I am not formally mated anymore, we thought we could do this quietly, at home. But it didn’t quite work out that way. Ice.”

DuKah handed her the cup, and she scooped some up with her tongue. “Ah, that tastes good. Too bad the baby can’t teleport itself out of there.”

NiKoh burst into laughter as he rubbed his sore arm. “Sorry, sweetie, it doesn’t work like that.” He turned to acknowledge the other two men in the room. “You know you’ve screwed up the family pool, right?”

“Not funny. Were you this humorous when OkVei was nearly born?”

“I was a nervous wreck. I couldn’t sit still, and whenever BeSai had a contraction, I swear I had them also.”

SaLie stuck out her tongue, then winced as another contraction hit.

After his sister’s breathing returned to normal, NiKoh turned to JeWal. “How is the search for entertainment coming along?”

JeWal sneered, readjusting his considerable girth in the chair. “I think when the station opens, there will be an adequate amount of shops, artisans, and other entertainment available. But the Xaxonian side will reign superior to yours.”

“JeWal, let’s not be so hasty,” admonished the smooth voice of DuKah. “After all, we haven’t seen everything yet. We will let the patrons of the station decide whose side is the most desirable.”

“That’s very noble of you, DuKah.” NiKoh forced friendliness into his voice, though he despised both men. “I did not expect such gallantry from you.”

DuKah’s green eyes glittered. “My dear NiKoh, you have not spent nearly enough time on Xaxa. Did you not find your short stay last year hospitable? You have been recently widowed, have you not? I would be more than happy to provide you with a personal tour of our, shall we say, special services for selected guests?”

“That’s quite all right. I did find my stay enjoyable, though you’ll forgive my agitation at what my sister experienced.”

“Will you stop it?” SaLie shifted in the bed. “For the last time, this was my choice. If you’re going to sit there and insult DuKah, please leave.”

“No insults were thrown.” NiKoh held up his hands. “I need to check on Mother anyway. SaLie, if you wanted to get out of helping KiRah and DaTil move, all you had to do was refuse. Going into labor was a bit extreme.”

NiKoh’s Chosen:  Family Matters can be found at the following places:

SCP:

http://store.secretcravingspublishing.com/index.php?main_page=book_info&cPath=4&products_id=1059&zenid=0ra2iu1dsbggm4d74393kv5pc3

Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/NiKohs-Chosen-Matters-Kenzie-Michaels-ebook/dp/B00UYCM43A/ref=sr_1_3?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1428442708&sr=1-3&keywords=kenzie+michaels

B&N:

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/nikohs-chosen-kenzie-michaels/1121488848?ean=2940151635769

ARE:

https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-nikoh039schosenfamilymatters-1765740-143.html

Thank you again for having me!  I’m holding a month-long contest.  Simply comment with your contact info and after the tour is over, all names will be tossed in a hat for a Grand Prize, a special gift pack full of goodies, along with a free book awarded daily.

Bio:

Kenzie Michaels resides in the Midwest with her husband, three children, and various household pets. Her fifth-grade teacher showed this avid reader how to write the stories swirling in her head, successfully unleashing her imagination upon the written word.

Kenzie is the ‘wild child’ of author Molly Daniels. They cohabitate nicely inside the brain of a woman in Indiana who’s the mother of three and ‘Aunt Molly’ to the entire neighborhood. A devout chocoholic, her hubby has learned to watch out when the characters in her head take over and not get too upset when the words are flowing and all concept of time is lost. (LOL)

My five minutes of television fame....

Spring has arrived and with it is my brand new release in the Children of Annwn series book two The Battle. How excited am I? Ridiculously super excited...

I loved writing this book for so many reasons and I love the title because bringing this book to life was a battle in itself.

Book two finds Mia facing her demons and Ryder also has to face his fears as they continue to fight Greyson, his monsters and Rhiannon. They discover new allies in the shape of a new character from Annwn, Malachi and his side kick Lucas. More secrets emerge as the boundaries between realms blur and cross over. And time is running out as a secret group is discovered that has its own sinister reasons for gaining control of the most powerful artifact from Annwn The Gilgamesh.

BLURB....

Mia's stuck in the human realm because the portal is closed, and her magic AWOL. Powerless, her sworn enemy, Greyson, kidnaps Mia ensnaring her in his spider's web with an offer to restore her magic. Oblivious to the risks, Mia accepts, but spirals into madness, believing her destiny is to retrace the footsteps of her ancestor, the evil Queen Rhiannon.

Ryder visits London with his friends, and Fusion enters the Battle of the Bands competition believing the location of the portal to be nearby,but he bewitched by a beautiful siren. In a blood-thirsty battle for control, a friend's life is sacrificed. Breaking all the rules, Ryder brings out the weapons namely ancient blades, and calls upon the Alltud, an arcane group for help.

Mia must resist Rhiannon's possession or Ryder has agree to end her life to prevent the queen gaining control of the Gilgamesh an omnipotent power, which will mean Armageddon for the humans.

It's time to put the greatest power of all to the test!

Below is the link to my T.V. appearance.....

North Andover CAM

Highlights of March!

It's Spring, although with snow still covering most of the ground and the frigid wind chills it feels anything but,  I'm so ready for the sunshine, longer days and warmer temps, aren't you?

March has been a really busy month with book two in the editor's hands it doesn't mean I get to take a break. I have been reading, studying and coming up with a draft for book three tentatively called Children of Annwn : The Power of the Gilgamesh???

WHAT do you think?

After sitting for the T.V interview in February, we had to shoot more film from one of the book group sessions to add to the background. The magazine segment will be aired in April, and I will share the link if it is not a complete disaster. The lovely Tiffany was so patient, and I hope we gave her enough to play around with. I'm not sure, I will ever feel comfortable in front of a camera but maybe with more practice?


I am actively pursuing getting my books into local libraries and will be following up with personal visits to chat about the story and why it should be accessible to everyone. I did receive wonderful news from my old local library who are happy to receive my book, which will be available very soon in Rhydypennau Library in Cardiff, Wales. I am also working on arranging at least on book signing for my visit in May, if I can get it booked in time.

Some feedback from the two local book groups. It was a brilliant experience, even if I was rather nervous as to how my FIRST EVER BOOK would be received by my peers. I was nervous and I think the groups were too, BUT I need honest feedback to get better . I hope that even if there is something a reader doesn't like about my work, there is something they like. I am more than happy for anyone to review my book, but hopefully in a constructive way  because my heart and soul has been poured into this, and you have to understand it is a learning process.

Give me something to work with!

I loved listening to the reader's viewpoint. I laughed at some comments and took on board queries or concerns that I hope to address as I gain more experience of developing my characters and plot for the further books.

It was clear to me that everyone LOVED Ryder, and I do have a soft spot for him myself. He's a hottie for sure and an alpha male as he likes to take charge and rescue his heroine BUT hopefully as you read the books, you'll see a stepping back from that as he let's Mia come into her own. Both characters go through changes. Mia transforms from the awkward whiny teenager into a strong and independent leader, but it is the strength they give to each other that makes them a force to be reckoned with.

I hope that reader's will not only be able to identify with Mia but learn to LOVE her too! 

One of the most exciting parts of having your book published for me is collaborating with a great team  who are equally excited about your book as you are. One of my favorite parts of the process is  seeing the book come to life in the beautiful art work because it gives me a visual, and I simply love it. It is also very important from a sales point of view because the front cover is the first thing readers will see, and just as it can entice a reader it can turn one away! 

It can put the cover artist under a lot of pressure, BUT thankfully I have a brilliant one namely Dawne Dominique, and I love her work.

Thank you X
DRUM ROLL

                           

Write about what you know???

I am having one of those truly surreal weeks, my youngest for the first time ever is away from home, and I feel bereft! However,  I have time to completely devote myself to my work which isn't really work because I love it so much. I never get this opportunity and it wasn't even planned.

My husband is away for the third week in a row, my teens are all occupied with girlfriends, and friends, and my youngest is away skiing!

This never happens!

Anyway, this week I had my first ever T.V. interview to be broadcast in our town of North Andover in April. The lovely Tiffany approached me after reading my article in the North Andover Patch and asked if I would like to chat about my book and writing in front of a camera, well how could I refuse???

Did I ever tell you that one of my biggest fears was public speaking? Well it is, and I used to hate it when as a student Midwife we would have to present to the group and my way of overcoming my insecurities and FEAR was to always go first.

That fear is still there, but I will not let it stop me from doing what I need to do and I keep telling myself this every-time I get scared or nervous, but it takes a lot of practice I think to feel comfortable in front of a camera knowing that your neighbors, friends, and members of the community perhaps will see you.

It was a learning experience, and I will get better! When it airs in April I will post the links...

                         

I remember being told once upon a time that when it comes to writing, write about what you know. What do you think? Well, I believe you should write about what you know and if you don't know something then you research, discover, and bloody well find out.

My second and equally exciting  piece of news was my delightful interview with my friend Kelly Flanagan a witch and psychic who shared her knowledge with me and answered the many questions that I had about magick, spells, and energy.

A fascinating afternoon. Check out her blog. Kelly's Blog

After chatting and picking her brain my book order on Amazon makes me smile, but it is so exciting as this is all research for the third book in the Children of Annwn series. In this book Mia Leronde finally accepts who she is, all the light and the dark that makes her Mia, and she learns how to use all her magick and to harness the temperamental side of her nature. She battles the evil queen Rhiannon and loses someone that she never thought she would feel sadness at losing, but realizes her destiny and embraces all that entails. I cannot wait to get started but need to read everything and finish the edits of the second book.

Every day, I'm learning, and I'm the luckiest woman alive doing what I love, and if you discover that, never let it go!

Longest Winter evah!!!

Soiree

Wow, so much to talk about!

In January, I spent time arranging a book signing, a Goodreads competition, a T.V. interview with my town cable channel which is due to be  aired in March, 2015, setting up plans for 2 book group meetings to critique Children of Annwn: The Promise planned for March, and continuing to work on my own Writers group!

On 31st January, 2015, I also submitted my second book in the Children of Annwn series entitled The Battle. I truly loved writing this second book and there are parts that are absolutely magical. I cannot hide how excited I feel about this book. It is also to me so different from the first!

Watch this space for news of it's release...

Busy, busy, on top of all the snow storms, blizzard and Hurricane warnings...with record levels of snow falling in my back garden...



THE BLURB for THE BATTLE...

Mia Leronde wishes to go home to Annwn with Ryder, Brianna and Tristan, but the usual portal is closed, and her magic has vanished.
Powerless to stop him, the perpetual thorn in her side and sworn enemy Greyson kidnaps her, but drawn into the spiders web she is ensnared with an offer to restore her magic. Oblivious to the risks, she spirals into madness, and is convinced her destiny is to follow in the footsteps of her ancestor the evil Queen Rhiannon, and when Ryder rescues her fears not even the power of his love will save her.
Ryder has demons to fight as well and when a beautiful siren controlled by Greyson sinks her claws into him with fatal consequences as they lose of one of their own the gloves come off, and the blades are drawn. n retaliation, they break all the rules by contacting the Alltud an arcane group for help as the lines between realms are blurring and war is on the horizon.
Mia must win her hardest battle yet to prevent Rhiannon gaining possession of her mind, body and soul as she wants control of the Gilgamesh an ancient artifact with unlimited power that will allow her to be immortal in the human world, bringing mankind to its knees!
It's time to show her and everyone how bad-ass she can really be


SNIPPET about half way through, Children of Annwn: The Battle...
Ask me anything but that!
His deep soulful pain filled voice pleaded. Mia chewed on her lower lip gazing at him and took the several steps that parted them bracing her hands on his stiff broad shoulders. The lift jerked to a stop.

“Warriors die in battle every day; they forfeit their lives to save others. You said you loved that about me, and I’m learning you’re right this is who I am. I want you by my side but only if you have my back. If you love me, you’ll do what I ask,” she said her heart pounding in her chest, and she prayed he didn’t simply leave her.
Ryder smoothed his thumbs over the white knuckles of her hands before taking them in his only to release them at her sides. His deep chestnut brown eyes looked into hers, and he nodded.
“I promise. I will not let Rhiannon win, but you must promise not to stop fighting her. I will not make it easy for you to give in knowing I will end her life. I love you and want you to live. Do you hear me?” he said cupping her chin and staring deeply at her.
“I will not stop fighting until my heart stops beating.”

Check out my friends store.

Soiree

I am presently researching the third book and hope to start writing soon as I'm eager to continue the momentum I was feeling as I finished the second book BUT it is hard to juggle everything all at once, pushing the first book, finalizing the second, and plotting the third. You truly have to wear many hats and not get confused as to which one you're wearing. I am tremendously proud of my loyal band of friends, my team at Secret Cravings Publishers and my readers.

2015 is going to be AWESOME.

I'm going to finish here as I have to go and shovel but my first book signing was brilliant and the snow didn't stop people turning up to support me and that was the best feeling ever! I have to thank my friend Trish Martini who set up a lovely table for me and jumped at the chance to host this event in her store.Lesson that I learned that night TAKE PICTURES before everything gets underway because I was swept up with all the chatting and didn't take enough.

North Andover Patch