Author Jay Rankin On Writing And A Giveaway

It’s my pleasure to welcome author Jay Rankin here today as he makes a stop on his Nurture Virtual Book Tourz for his memoir, UNDER THE NEON SKY: A LAS VEGAS DOORMAN’S STORY.

Here’s a brief description of the book: UNDER THE NEON SKY is a gripping, true story about a Las Vegas Doorman who worked the graveyard shift at one of the major hotels on the Strip. The sights, smells, and page popping characters are unforgettable as we take a journey that will transform how we used to envision the city that never sleeps. We watch as this doorman begins to emotionally break and wonder if he will become broken seeing his friends, his wife, hotel guests, and himself cross too many boundaries in this riveting, page turning story. 

Thanks to Jay, Jaidis, and the great folks at Nurture, I have 1 eBook copy of UNDER THE NEON SKY to offer to a lucky visitor who comments on this post between now and 8 p.m. (EST) on Thursday, Nov. 24. The giveaway is open internationally.

Jay’s here to talk his writing.

Although I didn't know it in the beginning, I realized later how important it was to not just be an expert on what I actually wrote, but to be an expert on what I didn't write. I had done a great deal of marketing and had the opportunity to be a guest on radio and TV throughout the country. Although my book was about my experience as a doorman on the Las Vegas Strip, most of the questions I was asked had to do with subjects that were never in the story. 

I was asked about the best dance clubs, best topless clubs, Vegas history, celebrities, mobsters and a multitude of subjects pertaining to Las Vegas I never wrote about. But I did have a great deal of knowledge about Las Vegas. 

Luckily I lived in Vegas for many years and knew a lot about the city. My father lived in Vegas when I was a kid and he knew a lot of the old time ‘bosses’. I had been good friends with the mayor of Las Vegas so I was very aware of many things Las Vegas used to be and was now.  

Within no time I was asked to be on panels with some mobsters. I was invited to be a guest on a talk show discussing customer service, comparing Las Vegas when the Italians ran the city to today’s corporate run Vegas. My research and homework was what I actually lived and witnessed. 

The point is, anyone who wants to write a non fiction book must do the homework. Try to become an expert in the field you are writing about. Also, see what is already out there that is of similar writing to your book which begs the question, “Why is your book better?”

One of the things I decided to inject in my story was some Vegas history. The city had so much colorful history, it was sometimes difficult to decide. I did a lot of research trying to decide which piece of history was relevant to what I was writing.

Jay, thanks so much for guest blogging. I can see where you might get asked all types of questions about Las Vegas. It is an intriguing town.

A little background on Jay. He was born in Los Angeles and grew up in Hollywood, CA. He worked his way through college inside the locked unit of a psychiatric hospital. He was a Los Angeles County Probation Officer and worked at several detention camps. He received his Master's Degree in clinical psychology. He was a bouncer at a country and western nightclub in Los Angeles and built custom homes in Connecticut and Las Vegas. He now resides in Los Angeles with his 9-year-old son. 

Jay’s book has won the National Best Books 2010 Award, the Indie Excellence book award in the memoir category, and was the 2011 International Book Award as finalist in the Autobiography/Memoir category. 

For more on Jay and his writing, visit his website at http://www.JaysLasVegas.com or his tour page at http://nurtureyourbooks.com/vbtblog/?p=2682. You can also find Jay on tour at the following sites:
November 17th – @ Kritters Ramblings
November 18th – @ Hubpages
November 22nd – @Sugarpeach
November 23rd – @ Journey Reader

November 25th – @ The Book Faery Reviews
November 29th – @ NURTURE Virtual BOOK Tourz™ Blog
November 30th – @ Everyday Is An Adventure

If you’re a writer, do you also get questions not pertaining to your book at signings and such? If you’re a reader, would you question an author just about their book or various topics? Thanks so much for stopping by. Be sure to include your e-mail address if it’s not in your profile. 

Books From Different Genres

What do loan sharks, vineyards and photographs have in common? Probably not what you’re thinking, but that would make for an interesting plot.

Today I’m sharing my thoughts on three very different books. The first deals with a loan shark, the second with a vineyard and a woman's difficult decision, and the last is a collection of rediscovered photographs. Enjoy.

BON APPETIT by Glenn Gamble

The life of a loan shark may have its glitz and glamour, but it’s also a hard life.

Jim Money finds that out when he goes to collect his money from Chuck, a dead beat. Chuck refuses to pay and trouble ensues. Jim calls his enforcer, Steve, in to handle the problem.

Meanwhile, Jim’s girlfriend Jessica is talking about settling down. The next thing Jim knows, Jessica has apparently run off with Steve. Now Jim is forced to team up with Steve’s wife, Carla, to find out what’s really going on.

Author Glenn Gamble has created a fast-pace read filled with suspense and action. It will keep you guessing. Be warned, however, the book does contain a fair amount of foul language.

BON APPETIT is the first installment in the Jim Money series.

Author Glenn Gamble’s website is www.glenngamble.com

Bon Appetit by Glenn Gamble, A Jim Money Story, 60 Minutes With Glenn Publications, @2011, ASIN: B004YWNWOK, Kindle Edition, 123 KB

FTC Full Disclosure - This eBook was sent to me by the author in hopes I would review it as part of his blog tour. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.

SAY YOU’LL BE MINE by Julia Amante

Isabel Gallegos is only a handshake away from living her dream life. After years of putting everyone else's needs before her own, she's selling her family's vineyard and moving to a quiet cottage on the California coast. But just as she's about to seal the deal, a letter arrives from Argentina with shocking news: Her beloved cousin has died and Isabel is now the sole guardian of three young children.

Still holding on to her dream, Isabel travels to Argentina. There she meets little Julieta, the cherubic baby of the family; 8-year-old Adelmo, as hot-tempered as his sister is sweet; and 10-year-old Sandra, whose heart-shaped face and quiet confidence remind Isabel so much of her late cousin. 

She tells herself to let the children go, to leave them in the care of their grandmother or perhaps their long-lost uncle who abruptly reappears. Or should she listen to her ex-husband, who is suddenly at her side, urging her to give the children--and him--a chance?

If she's willing to take a risk, three tiny strangers just might change Isabel's life in ways she's never imagined.

Author Julia Amante has created a wonderful romance and blended it smoothly with serious and realistic problems. Her characters struggle to do the right thing without knowing sometimes what that is. The reader is keep guessing what will happen right until the end of SAY YOU’LL BE MINE.

Author Julia Amante’s website is http://www.juliaamante.com/

SAY YOU’LL BE MINE by Julia Amante, Grand Central Publishing, @2011, ISBN: 9780446581639, Paperback, 384 Pages

FTC Full Disclosure - I requested this book and it was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.

THE LOST PHOTOGRAPHS OF CAPTAIN SCOTT 

by David M. Wilson

History and photography buffs will find THE LOST PHOTOGRAPHS OF CAPTAIN SCOTT a treasure of information.

This fabulous coffee table-style book contains 109 black and white photographs taken by Captain Robert Falcon Scott on his ill-fated Terra Nova Expedition. These photographs were rediscovered a hundred years after Scott’s death. Scott and his fellow explorers died on their return from the South Pole on or about March 29, 1912 (his last diary entry).

Scott’s photographs are small silver-gelatin contact prints measuring four inches by 3.25 inches. They were stored in a standard black, plastic photograph folder but the negatives have disappeared.

Author David M. Wilson includes entries from Scott’s diaries, along with facts from other documents. Wilson has compiled a detailed description of the events leading Scott and his fellow explorers to make the scientific endeavor to the South Pole. There are also a number of maps detailing the route the group took.

The photographs show the harsh elements the explorers and their animals encountered on their journey. While some of the photos are blurry, foggy and a bit grainy, they still speak volumes of what the group endured.

THE LOST PHOTOGRAPHS OF CAPTAIN SCOTT is truly an amazing look at a part of history.

Wilson is the great-nephew of Dr. Edward Wilson, chief of the Scientific Staff, who perished with Captain Scott.

The Lost Photographs of Captain Scott: Unseen Images From The Legendary Antarctic Expedition by David M. Wilson, Little, Brown and Company, @2011, ISBN: 978-0316178501, Hardcover, 192 Pages

FTC Full Disclosure - I requested this book and it was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.

Thanks as always for stopping by today. Hopefully I’ve shared something that will spark your interest or possibly that of someone you know.

BTW, be sure to check out the fundraising button on the right sidebar to aid Author Sandi Rog.

Reviews With A Christmas Theme

With the holidays just around the corner, I tend to read and listen to more books with the Christmas theme.

Today I’m sharing two audios books that deal with the holiday season and a cookbook that’s perfect for this time of year.

1225 CHRISTMAS TREE LANE by Debbie Macomber

Christmas normally brings thoughts of family, friends and decorations. There’s no place like Cedar Cove for the holidays.

Author Debbie Macomber has created the last entry in her Cedar Cove series with 1225 CHRISTMAS TREE LANE gathering everyone for the holidays.

The story centers around Beth Morehouse, owner of the local Christmas tree farm and animal rescuer. Someone has left 10 lab-mix puppies on her doorstep and she needs to find homes for them by Christmas. She’s looking forward to spending the holidays with her 2 daughters and then learns her ex-husband, Kent, is coming too. What no one knows, he’s bringing a ‘friend’ with him.

Finding homes for the puppies, Beth interacts with the other residents of Cedar Cove giving a look at their lives during the holiday.

With the giving of a puppy, closure is brought to each family. Their sorrows, joys, and hopes are expanded on. There are surprises along the way and romance is always in the air. Though this is the last installment in the series, new fans won’t have trouble keeping up. They will, however, hopefully be inspired to find out more about the residents of Cedar Cove through prior books.

The narration by Sandra Burr brings the characters to life and gives more depth to the story. She vocalizes the emotions of the various characters beautifully. She intones the warmth of the story in her narration. 

Visit 1225 CHRISTMAS TREE LANE for an enchanting holiday story.

Author Debbie Macomber’s website is www.debbiemacomber.com

1225 Christmas Tree Lane by Debbie Macomber, A Cedar Cove Novel, Read by Sandra Burr, Brilliance Audio, @2011, ISBN: 978-1455819980, Unabridged, 5 Discs, Listening Time: 6 Hours 10 Minutes

FTC Full Disclosure - This audio book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.

THE CHRISTMAS NOTE by Donna VanLiere

Throughout the year and especially around this time, we look for hope.

THE CHRISTMAS NOTE by Donna VanLiere is an enchanting story of hope, forgiveness, and redemption. It’s a reminder we never know what’s around the next corner for us or how our lives can impact others.

Greetchen Daniels and her 2 children move into an apartment to be closer to her mother, Miriam. Moving in, the family encounters one of their neighbors, Melissa McCreary. Melissa is a loner and has very little to say to the noisy new neighbors.

A man searching for Melissa winds up at Greetchen’s door. Since Melissa isn’t home, he wants Greetchen to tell her that her mother is dead and she has a week to clean out her apartment. Not wanting to get involved, but feeling she has to help, Greetchen informs Melissa and offers to help with the cleaning.

Through a chain of events, the women find hope and uncover long-forgotten secrets that impact both their lives. The cast of supporting characters add charm, humor, and additional layers to the story. There are surprises along the way that will delight and enhance the story.

Author Donna VanLiere does a wonderful job narrating the story. She gives warmth and compassion to the characters. She also gives each character their own unique voice.

THE CHRISTMAS NOTE is a heart-warming story perfect for the holidays.

Author Donna VanLiere’s website is www.donnavanliere.com

The Christmas Note by Donna VanLiere, Read by Donna VanLiere, MacMillan Audio, @2011, ISBN: 978-1427213266, Unabridged, 4 Discs, Listening Time: 4 Hours 30 Minutes

FTC Full Disclosure - This audio book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.

JUNIOR’S DESSERT COOKBOOK  

by Alan Rossen and Beth Allen

With the holidays fast approaching, now’s a great time to check out JUNIOR’S DESSERT COOKBOOK: 75 RECIPES FOR CHEESECAKE, PIES, COOKIES, AND MORE.

Written by third-generation co-owner Alan Rossen and co-author Beth Allen, this cookbook offers delicious recipes for the holidays or everyday. It features recipes that helped make Junior’s Restaurants legendary on the East Coast.

The easy-to-follow cookbook begins with a brief history of the landmark restaurant chain. Then it features chapters on cheesecakes, soda fountain desserts, black and white foods, layer cakes and cupcakes, pies, unusual desserts, and sugar-free alternatives (including cheesecake). In addition, there’s a chapter about Baker’s Basics and one that addresses what to do if the dessert doesn’t turn out perfect.

The recipes are given with detailed ingredients, easy step-by-step directions, and a sidebar featuring ‘The Junior’s Way’ for extra helpful advice to achieve a great dessert. There are also family tidbits scattered throughout.

The cookbook is enhanced by 40 color photographs by Mark Ferri. The beautiful full page photos are sprinkled throughout the book and highlight some of the 75 scrumptious recipes.

Whether you’re an accomplished baker or trying your first dessert, JUNIOR’S DESSERT COOKBOOK would make a wonderful addition to your collection. 

More on Junior’s and the cookbook can be found at www.juniorscheesecake.com

Junior‘s Dessert Cookbook by Alan Rossen and Beth Allen, Photographs by Mark Ferri, The Taunton Press, @2011, ISBN: 978-600853920, Hardcover, 192 Pages

FTC Full Disclosure – I requested this book and it was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.

Do you enjoy books with a holiday theme? Thanks so much for stopping by today. 

Sunday Salon: In Close and Death Cloud

Time again to settle back, pour another cup of coffee, and get ready for Sunday Salon where we discuss fun books we love to share.

I have a couple of audio books to share. I continue to love my print books, but find audio books so convenient when life gets hectic and you don’t have time to sit and read. Today’s audios feature a suspense mystery and a YA that is a must for any Sherlock Holmes’ fan.

IN CLOSE by Brenda Novak

If you’re looking for suspense, mystery, a little romance, and a fair amount of action, then I have a story for you. IN CLOSE by Brenda Novak fits that bill. The audio version read by Angela Dawe brings the story to life even more.

Claire O’Toole has always wanted to know what happened to her mother, who went missing 15 years ago. After Claire’s husband, David, is killed in a freak hunting accident, she resumes her search for the truth. It seems Claire’s sister, step father and step mother would rather she left it alone.

Going through some boxes of her mother’s, Claire also finds boxes of David’s things. One box contains a folder pertaining to Claire’s mother, Alana. David had been conducting his own investigation into Alana’s disappearance before he was killed.

Circumstances reunites Claire with her former lover, Isaac Morgan. Both have fought their attraction to each other since David’s death. Reading the files, Isaac believes David’s death may not have been an accident. Seems David may have gotten too close to the truth about Alana’s disappearance.

As the two begin to search for the truth, the old feelings between them come to the surface. Both refuse to share their true feelings with the other adding another layer to the story.

Author Brenda Novak keeps the reader (or listener) on pins and needles as she includes a number of red herrings along the way. Just when you figure out what happened, she drops a different clue causing you to ponder new suspects.

This fast-pace story is heightened by the wonderful narration by Angela Dawe. Her interruption of the characters adds depth to the story. She does a delightful job of giving separate voices to each of the characters, as well as expressing their emotions. Her tone is perfect for this suspense-filled, action-packed novel.

Author Brenda Novak’s website is www.brendanovak.com

In Close by Brenda Novak, Read by Angela Dawe, Brilliance Audio, @2011, ISBN: 9781455841837, Unabridged, 10 Discs, Listening Time: 12 Hours 17 Minutes

FTC Full Disclosure - This audio book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.

DEATH CLOUD by Andrew Lane

Sherlock Holmes’ fans will be in for a treat, while hopefully youngsters unfamiliar with the great detective will be inspired to know more thanks to DEATH CLOUD by Andrew Lane.

Fully authorized and endorsed by the estate of Arthur Conan Doyle, DEATH CLOUD is the beginning of a new series featuring a teenage Sherlock Holmes and his friends as they solves mysteries.

The summer of 1868, 14-year-old Sherlock Holmes is sent to spend several months with his eccentric aunt and uncle in Hampshire. He has also been assigned a tutor to continue his studies. American Amyus Crowe begins teaching Sherlock using observation as one method. Meanwhile, Sherlock meets a young wayward lad, Matty, who lives on a boat.

When two local men are found with symptoms of the plaque, Sherlock begins to question certain elements. Sherlock, Matty, Crowe, and Crowe’s daughter Virginia are quickly caught up in a mystery that involves the menacing villain Baron Maupertuis and a plot to destroy the British forces.

Listed as middle-grade fiction, Author Andrew Lane has created a story that will hold the attention of readers of all ages. His writing is fast-pace and even some of the more unusual events seem plausible, it is after all Sherlock Holmes.

Dan Weyman does a wonderful job of narrating the story. He provides a vast array of accents ranging from British to American to European. He gives voice to all the characters’ emotions from Sherlock’s shy discussions with Virginia to the terror he feels caught in a burning warehouse. Weyman’s narration adds depth to the story and definitely brings the characters to life.

No matter your age, DEATH CLOUD will keep you on the edge of your seat. This is a great story to introduce youngsters to the amazing world of Sherlock Holmes. Looking forward to young Sherlock’s next adventure.

Author Andrew Lane’s website is http://www.youngsherlock.com

Death Cloud by Andrew Lane, Sherlock Holmes The Legend Begins, Read by Dan Weyman, MacMillan Audio, @2011, ISBN: 9781427211224, Unabridged, 6 Discs, Listening Time: 7 Hours

FTC Full Disclosure - This audio book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.

What have you been reading this week? Have you listened to an audio book lately? Thanks so much for stopping by today. Have a great Sunday everyone!

 

Author Regina Jeffers Talks About A Regency Christmas

It is my pleasure to welcome ‘new-to-me’ author Regina Jeffers who considers herself a Jane Austen enthusiast and has a new yuletide story out this month entitled, CHRISTMAS AT PEMBERLY: A PRIDE AND PREJUDICE CHRISTMAS SEQUEL.

Here’s a brief synopsis of the book: To bring a renewed sense joy to his wife’s countenance, Fitzwilliam Darcy has secretly invited the Bennets and the Bingleys to spend the Christmastide festive days at Pemberley. But as he and Elizabeth journey to their estate to join the gathered families, a blizzard blankets the English countryside. The Darcys find themselves stranded at a small out-of-the-way inn with another couple preparing for the immediate delivery of their first child, while Pemberley is inundated with friends and relations seeking shelter from the storm.

Without her brother’s strong presence, Georgiana Darcy desperately attempts to manage the chaos surrounding the arrival of six invited guests and eleven unscheduled visitors. But bitter feuds, old jealousies, and intimate secrets quickly rise to the surface. Has Lady Catherine returned to Pemberley for forgiveness or revenge? Will the manipulative Caroline Bingley find a soul mate? Shall Kitty Bennet and Georgiana Darcy know happiness?

Written in Regency style and including Austen’s romantic entanglements and sardonic humor, CHRISTMAS AT PEMBERLY places Jane Austen’s most beloved characters in an exciting yuletide story that speaks to the love, the family spirit, and the generosity that remain as the heart of Christmas.

 

Regina has graciously agreed to give us some details on what a Regency Christmas is really like.

When most people consider a Regency Christmas, they are really envisioning a Victorian one. During the Regency Period (1811-1820), Christmastide began on Christmas Day and ended with a Twelfth Night celebration. There are few references to Christmas traditions in Regency literature other than the occasional wish for a “Happy Christmas” among story characters and real-life accounts. Even Jane Austen made few references to the day as anything other than an acknowledgement of Jesus’ birth. 

Religious observances remained the foundation of English Christmases of the time. One must remember that in the 16th Century, to prevent subversion, the government banned Christmas celebrations. According to the Jane Austen Centre Magazine, “We have accounts from early 19th Century journals of Christmas days where the writer mentions the holiday but makes absolutely no fuss about it. Likewise, there are records of newspapers, published on December 25th that do not even contain the word Christmas.”

In Chapter 14 of Austen’s Persuasion, we see how the schoolboys’ return home for the holidays is the most important event, not the celebration of Christmas itself. “Immediately surrounding Mrs. Musgrave were the little Harvilles, whom she was sedulously guarding from the tyranny of the two children from the Cottage, expressly arrived to amuse them. On one side was a table occupied by some chattering girls, cutting up silk and gold paper; and on the other were trestles and trays, bending under the weight of brawn and cold pies, where riotous boys were holding high revel; the whole completed by a roaring Christmas fire, which seemed determined to be heard in spite of the noise of the others.”

The Christmas pudding is traditionally made on Stir Up Day, the last Sunday before Advent. All family members of a household take a turn in the stirring with a special wooden spoon, which represents the Christ Child’s crib and the stable. Stirring in a clockwise direction with his eyes closed, each person makes a secret wish during his turn at the spoon – very much as one might do before blowing out the candles on a birthday cake.

In country houses, the occupants hung decorations on Christmas Eve. These remained in place until the Epiphany on January 6, when they were removed. One might hang holly, ivy, rosemary, evergreen, hawthorn and hellebore (Christmas rose). 

As for the mistletoe/kissing ball, it became quite elaborate during the Victorian Period. However, many believe the tradition remained below stairs in the servants’ quarters during the Regency Period. Yet, the kissing ball and the removal of the berries for each kiss “stolen” from a lovely heroine is often found in Regency based romances. 

A Yule Log to burn throughout the festive days would have been common, as well as a Christmas candle. The kindling from the previous year’s Yule Log would be used to light the current year’s find. Groups – mummers whose origins date back to the Middle Ages  - sang and performed short plays, usually on Boxing Day (December 26). The actors often mixed bits of history with the heroes of the British Napoleonic Wars in their tales. Of course, Saint George remained a staple of the plays. 

Parlor games entertained houseguests, but there was no caroling (except possibly in Wales), no decorated trees, no stockings hung by the chimney with care, and no Christmas cards. Gifts were few and often took the form of charitable acts by the aristocracy. A landowner’s cottagers might bestow a gift symbolizing their devotion to his generosity or representing the bounty of the estate’s harvest on the main house. A Regency Christmas was a time to reflect upon one’s religious beliefs and to enjoy the companionship of friends and family. It was not the commercialized holiday we of this century would expect.

 

In creating CHRISTMAS AT PEMBERLY, the challenge was to tell a tale of “Christmas” for a modern audience, but to stay true to the Regency Period’s practices. In the novel, Christmas arrives on a Sunday. It is December 25, 1814, the time period between Napoleon’s arrival on Elba and his escape in March 1815. I shifted the story’s emphasis from the expected symbols of Christmas (gifts, carols, trees, etc.) to the birth of two children and how each child’s entrance into this world changes the family into which he is introduced. I used the holiday’s practices as the framework through which the story is told. 

Regina, thanks so much for guest blogging. It is quite fascinating to discover how little Christmas was celebrated during this era. We sometimes get so wrapped up in how we now celebrate Christmas that we forget how it has been observed in times past.

Let me share a bit of background on Regina. As I mentioned earlier, she considers herself a Jane Austen enthusiast and was a public classroom teacher for 39 years. She is the author of several Austen-inspired novels, including Darcy’s Passions, Darcy’s Temptation, Vampire Darcy’s Desire, Captain Wentworth’s Persuasion, The Phantom of Pemberley, and the upcoming The Disappearance of Georgiana Darcy. She also is a Regency romance author: The Scandal of Lady Eleanor, A Touch of Velvet, A Touch of Cashémere, and The First Wives’ Club. 

A Time Warner Star Teacher and Martha Holden Jennings Scholar, Regina often serves as a consultant in language arts and media literacy. Currently living outside Charlotte, North Carolina, she spends her time with her writing, gardening, and her new grandson. 

For more on Regina and her writing, check out her website www.rjeffers.com, visit her blog http://reginajeffers.wordpress.com, find her at http://austenauthors.net, on Twitter – @reginajeffers, and on Facebook – Regina Jeffers. Her books are available at Barnes & Noble, Amazon, Books-a-Million, Joseph Beth, and Ulysses Press.

What are your thoughts on how Christmas has been observed in past eras? Do you observe any traditions that have been passed down the generations? Thank you so much for stopping by today.

String Bridge Chart Rush and Review

Today is THE day to help Jessica Bell's debut, STRING BRIDGE, hit the bestseller list on Amazon, and receive the all-original soundtrack, Melody Hill: On the Other Side, written and performed by the author herself, for free!

I’m joining fellow bloggers to help Jessica in her endeavor. In addition, I’m sharing my thoughts on this intriguing story.
  
To receive the free soundtrack, all you have to do is purchase the book today (paperback, or eBook), November 11th, and then email the receipt to: jessica.carmen.bell(at)gmail(dot)com. She will then email you a link to download the album at no extra cost!

To purchase the paperback:

Amazon USA

To purchase the eBook:

Amazon USA

Amazon UK

To listen to samples of the soundtrack, visit iTunes.

Here’s my take on the story.

STRING BRIDGE by Jessica Bell

This is an emotional story of a woman’s journey to find herself and what truly makes her happy.

The story will take you on a roller coaster ride of emotions as the protagonist, Melody, struggles with finding her center. She had been a musician, but gave it up to be a wife and mother. In time she realized she had not only given up her dream, but also a part of herself. She deals with depression and fights to be different than her bipolar mother.

In the end through a series of tragedies, there is triumph and happiness.

Author Jessica Bell has created characters that are realistic with flaws, problems, attitudes and strength to endure. Her writing is smooth and conversational making readers feel a part of the action. The story is intense with language that some may consider brazen, but given the circumstances fits naturally.

STRING BRIDGE will hold you captive from the opening paragraph to the last sentence.

Author Jessica Bell’s website is www.jessicabell.com

String Bridge by Jessica Bell, Lucky Press, @2011, Kindle Edition, ASIN: B005Y48DF6, 1606 KB, @2011, ISBN: 9780984631742, Paperback, 288 pages

FTC Full Disclosure - An eBook was sent to me by the author in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. 

If you are not familiar with String Bridge, check out the book trailer: 

Rave Reviews for String Bridge:

“Jessica Bell’s STRING BRIDGE strummed the fret of my veins, thrummed my blood into a mad rush, played me taut until the final page, yet with echoes still reverberating. A rhythmic debut with metrical tones of heavied dark, fleeting prisms of light, and finally, a burst of joy—just as with any good song, my hopeful heartbeat kept tempo with Bell’s narrative.” ~ Kathryn Magendie, author of Sweetie and Publishing Editor of Rose & Thorn Journal

“Poet and musician Jessica Bell's debut novel String Bridge is a rich exploration of desire, guilt, and the difficult balancing act of the modern woman. The writing is lyrical throughout, seamlessly integrating setting, character and plot in a musical structure that allows the reader to identify with Melody's growing insecurity as her world begins to unravel … String Bridge is a powerful debut from a promising writer, full of music, metaphor, and just a hint of magic.” ~ Magdalena Ball, author of Repulsion Thrust and Sleep Before Evening

“Jessica Bell is a brilliant writer of great skill and depth. She doesn't pull back from the difficult scenes, from conflict, pain, intensity. She puts it all out there, no holds barred, no holding back. She knows how to craft a scene, how to develop character, how to create suspense. This is an absolutely brilliant debut novel. I look forward to reading her next novel, and next and next.” ~ Karen Jones Gowen, author of Farm Girl, Uncut Diamonds and House of Diamonds

Connect with Jessica:
String Bridge: http://www.stringbridge.com/
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/jessica_bell
Website: http://www.jessicacbell.com/
Blog: http://thealliterativeallomorph.blogspot.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/author.jessica.bell
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/MsBessieBell
Publisher: http://www.luckypress.com

Come join the fun and help Jessica hit the bestseller list on Amazon today. Please TWEET and/or FACEBOOK this post using #StringBridge! 

Who Do, VooDoo? by Rochelle Staab And A Giveaway

The delightful author Rochelle Staab stopped by last week to talk about superstitions and her new book. Today I’m sharing my thoughts on her cozy murder mystery debut release.

WHO DO, VOODOO? is the first installment in the author’s new Mind For Murder Mystery series. 

Thanks to Rochelle and Kaitlyn at Berkley Prime Crime, I have 1 copy of WHO DO, VOODOO? to giveaway to a lucky visitor who comments on this post between now and 8 p.m. (EST) on Thursday, Nov. 17. Be sure to include your e-mail address if it’s not included in your profile. (Giveaway open to U.S. residents only, sorry.)

WHO DO, VOODOO? by Rochelle Staab

Having learned additional background beforehand, I began reading WHO DO, VOODOO? with a bit of apprehension. 

Would the characters be as I had imaged? Would the plot hold my attention given the extra information? Would the author be able to explain voodoo, tarot readings, and such without it reading like a text book?

Oh my, YES, YES and YES! The book exceeded all my expectations drawing me into the world of the protagonist and her friends as if it were my own. The story held my attention with fast-pace action and engaging dialogue. The explanations of tarot readings, voodoo and the supernatural were informative, not overwhelming.  

Author Rochelle Staab has created characters that will delight, amuse, entertain, irritate, frustrate, warm your heart, and remind you of dating anxieties from your youth. Her writing style is smooth, easy flowing making for a relaxing read with just the right hint of suspense.

Liz Cooper is a psychologist who looks at life through rational eyes. When her best friend, Robin Bloom, finds tarot cards stuck to her door, she believes it’s an omen but Liz doesn’t. The cards are the same as the ones Robin’s husband drew the night before he died in a wreck. Liz’s mother, Vivian, did the tarot reading for his 40th birthday.

Wanting to help her friend, Liz turns to Nick Garfield for assistance. Nick was her brother Dave’s college roommate and is now a religious philosophy professor and an expert on the occult. As they track down the tarot deck, a murder occurs and Robin is the prime suspect. Liz is determined to find the real killer and free her friend. She and Nick explore the world of voodoo while a growing attraction between them builds. Will they find the killer or has Robin already been dealt the final card?

While the world of black magic, tarot cards and the supernatural may sound dark and heavy, Staab lightens it up a bit. She weaves the story with moments of humor, bonds of friendship, a budding romance, and sprinkles occult information to make it a fascinating read. The twists and turns will keep you guessing till the end.

The fun references to old black and white movies adds a charming touch. Liz’s no-nonsense approach reminded me at times of the wonderful Kathryn Hepburn. Nick’s fun-loving attitude resembles that of the amazing Cary Grant. With characters like this and the zany group of supporting cast, this is an intriguing new series to follow. Can’t wait to see what Liz and Nick are up to in BRUJA BROUHAHA slated for release in the summer of 2012.

Author Rochelle Staab’s website is www.rochellestaab.com

Who Do, VooDoo? by Rochelle Staab, A Mind For Murder Mystery, Berkley Prime Crime, @2011, ISBN: 9780425244593, Paperback,  304 pages

FTC Full Disclosure - This book was sent to me by the author in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.

Do you enjoy a bit of supernatural in your mysteries from time to time? Thanks so much for stopping by today. 

Turning Up The Heat Blog Tour And Giveaway

The Turning Up The Heat Blog Tour, featuring lovely authors Cara Elliott and Lilli Feisty, makes a stop here today to answer some questions and offer giveaways.

Cara’s latest release is TOO WICKED TO WED. Here’s a brief synopsis: Outspoken Lady Alexa Bingham enjoys a chance encounter with London's most notorious rake, the Earl of Killingworth, and is drawn into a passionate romance that has serious consequences. When a reckless wager forces the Earl, the owner of a gambling den and brothel, to take on a new business partner, the lovers begin to play a dangerous game of intrigue and deception. If they are not careful, it is the flames of their own fiery attraction that may destroy them. 

Lilli’s current release is DELICIOUSLY SINFUL. Here’s a brief synopsis of it: Things are heating up in the kitchen...and the bedroom. Restaurant owner Phoebe Mayle thought she had it all under control.  Sure, her new chef has a bad-boy reputation --and a chiseled body to match-- but she's positive she can whip him into shape. But will their hunger for each other be a recipe for love that lasts? 

Thanks to the ladies, Alana and the good folks at Grand Central Publishing, I have 3 sets of books to giveaway. Each set will include 1 copy of each book per winner. Please see the end of the post for the giveaway details.

Now for the ladies’ Q & A session.

Mason - In what order does your characters come to life - name, physical description, personality?
 
Cara - That’s exactly the order! The name is a huge part of conjuring up the look of a person, and from there I start to delve beneath the surface . . . 

Lilli - Personality. I always start with a general idea of a story, but my characters truly come to life as I write them. Sometimes they surprise me. Actually, they are constantly surprising me because I actually never know what they’re going to do until they do it! 

Mason - Of these three elements (name, physical description, personality), which is the easiest to develop and which is the hardest?
 
Cara - Though it seems really easy, picking a name is important. The sound and texture—hard, soft, exotic—helps to define the individual taking shape. Once I’ve chosen that, I look at a lot of images, from old paintings to current movie stills, in order to get a picture in my mind. Then the real fun begins—I love the process of delving beneath the surface and finding out what makes my characters tick. Trust me, there are days I sit back after writing a scene and say, “Whoa, I had no idea they were going to do THAT!”
 
Just like real people, some characters are really laid-back and easy to deal with, Others can be difficult—sometimes it takes a lot of arguing to make them do what you want! 

Lilli - Well, naming them is easy. And fun! I use an old-trick-of-the-trade and I watch movie credits and copy interesting names. I also write names down in the same notebook when I hear a name that strikes me. Then when I’m naming a character I just go to my book and see if there’s anything fitting. There usually is. 

Physical description is always hard for me write. A lot of writers clip images from magazines or use pictures as inspiration, but my characters are always just visualized in my own head as I write them. So it’s always difficult for me to fully describe all their little quirks that make them unique, and I want to make sure and get it right. 

Mason - How would you encourage someone who has never read your genre to give it a try?
 
Cara - No matter what the genre, a compelling story has to have the same core elements to resonate with readers. Engaging characters, sharp writing, gripping emotion and heartfelt humor—Regency historical romances have all that . . . and hey, who can resist fancy ballgowns and dashing Men in Boots!  

Lilli - I ask people what movies they like, or if they like certain movies. Inevitably, they usually pick a movie that could be considered my genre. For example, if a person likes romantic comedies, there’s a lot of great contemporary romantic comedies she’d probably like as well. 

Cara and Lilli, thank you both so much for stopping here on your tour. I always enjoy learning how an author’s characters come to life. Thanks also for providing the giveaway.

Here’s the details of how to enter this giveaway. Send me an e-mail (mcbookshelf@gmail.com) and your subject line should read, “Win TURNING UP THE HEAT.” Your message should include your name and mailing address. The contest is open to residents of the U.S. and Canada only and no post office box addresses can be accepted. Just so you know, I don’t share the mailing information or use it for any other purpose. The deadline to enter this giveaway for a chance at one of the 3 sets from the Turning Up The Heat tour -- 384-page TOO WICKED TO WED (ISBN: 9780446584579) and 352-page DELICIOUSLY SINFUL (ISBN: 9780446574105) -- is 8 p.m. (EST) on Friday, Nov. 25.

Thanks so much for stopping by today. How do you get friends to read books in the genres you enjoy if they’ve never tried it?