Author Interview: Jump by Jennifer Wylie

Short Story Blurb: Jump

If you were told to jump off of a bridge would you? Perhaps it would depend on who was doing the asking. Our heroine has spunk and a sense of humor, however suffers from an extreme case of inappropriate clothing. When things take a turn from dangerous to worse what will she do when fantasy becomes reality? Warning: May include hot leather clad men, singing and demons.

Author Bio

Jennifer Wylie was born and raised in Ontario, Canada. In a cosmic twist of fate she dislikes the snow and cold.
Before settling down to raise a family, she attained a BA from Queens University and worked in retail and sales.
Thanks to her mother she acquired a love of books at an early age and began writing in public school. She constantly has stories floating around in her head, and finds it amazing most people don’t. Jennifer writes various forms of fantasy, both novels and short stories. Sweet light is her debut novel to be published in 2011.
Jennifer resides in rural Ontario, Canada with her husband, two boys, Australian shepherd a flock of birds and a disagreeable amount of wildlife.

My Interview: 

1. How about some fun stuff to start off with? Favorite color? Black Drink? Rum and coke :D Food? Chocolate Novel? That is a really hard one, I have soo many favorite authors, never mind books. It really depends on the mood I'm in. When I'm in a twisted frame of mind I love Theodore Sturgeon. I also love everything by Michelle Sagara. I love books that make me feel, that are funny or make me cry. Character from any book? I love strong characters- wimpy female leads just tick me off. I hate stupid characters. LOL However I strangely love characters who've had everything gone wrong, lost every and are sad and desolate as well. Let us not forget our strong, warrior type hot men too :)

2. Jump is your first official published work. Can you tell us a little bit about this short story and the characters? How did you come up with the idea?

Jump is a short and everything happens very quickly, so you don't learn too much about the characters, in fact you don't even learn any real names. Our female lead is strong, sassy girl with an attitude (which I like!) The short is based on the phrase “If someone asked you jump off of a bridge would you?” I'd just gotten off the phone with my parents and had heard the normal bout of lectures and advice. This phrase popped into my head... and then the story came rushing in.

3. Who is your favorite character and why? 

My favorite character in Jump is my MC. She is smart, sassy, creative and has a wicked sense of humor.

4. Not only do you have Jump coming out December 15 by Echelon Press, but a book titled Sweet Light also, can you tell us how it feels to be a published author now?

I'm still bouncing. (Yes literaly) I will also occasionally let out a 'squee!' for no reason. I don't think I've stopped grinning either. Becoming published was one of those dreams you think about, yet deep inside it seems so unreal and improbable. Not that I didn't think my writing was any good, however finding someone in the publishing industry to READ it can be quite the challenge!

5. Can you give your fans a little on your upcoming book? Who is the main character of the story and what obstacles does she face?

Sweet Light takes place in a fictional world with magic and swords. My main character is 16 year old Shara, who is an orphan raised in a Healer Hall. She has a rare magical gift of Healing, however at the time of the story it has yet to manifest. She has spent her youth learning the use of herbs and surgery and is extremely intelligent. However she is also very shy, the typical follower. When she gains Journeyman status she accepts a position in the barbaric northern kingdom as a court healer. When war breaks out shortly after her arrival things begin to go wrong. She is sent to the front lines and later seperated from the army. Happening upon a wounded soldier in the forest, every mile back to the capital is a struggle, and breaking the Healer’s code, she falls in love with her charge.

If Shara thought that to be the least of her troubles, the appearance of a fierce warrior captain who takes it upon himself to be her protector teaches her differently.  Trouble comes in threes at the appearance of her former love and fellow healer.  Faced with decisions of the heart and the sudden manifestation of her gift leave little room for anything else to go wrong.  Of course, a lot more does go wrong, but I don't want to give too much away. :)

6. Please tell us a little about your path to publication.

When I finally decided I wanted to share my stories, edited my book and wrote my query letter, I then began a search for an agent. After almost two years of that, and probably at least 100 rejections I discovered Echelon Press. I first heard of them on twitter, and from a friend. After some research to make sure they were an actual company (yes I did come across a few companies over the years which would publish my book- if I paid them) I sent in my query and was extremely excited when they requested a full MS. A few months later... well here I am. :)

7. You are not only an author, but a mother and wife as well. Can you tell us how you balance all of these things and not go mad? How much time do you devote to your writing during the day?

What? I'm not mad? :D I sneak moments where I can to write. A lot of it I do in the evenings, or this year both boys are in school full time, so try to get some done then. I've learned to write in fits and spurts. I can even write backwards and sideways! (That is another story...)

8. I love the cover of Jump. It’s dark, gothic and the font grabs me, it makes me want to read this story. How did you react when you saw the cover for the first time?

I was super excited, I had a cover!! Then I got sick. It was unfortunate the stomach flu decided to hit very shortly after. Even worse, hub and my youngest got it too- so it was a very miserable evening. (However I'm still excited!)

9. You also have another short story coming out soon, The Forgotten Echo, as part of your Immortal Echoes series, can you tell us a little about this story?

The idea for this story came from a line from a song. It takes place in our world, mostly. However there is also the Otherworld, a sort of in between place. Echoes are people who have died and not passed on, however they are much more than ghosts. They are created by Immortals and serve them for eternity. Echoes can be in both the real world and the Otherworld, they have power and are quite useful to their Immortals. The Forgotten Echo tells the story of an Echo who is created- however her Immortal disappears before telling her what she has become.

10. Is there a plan for a book in the Immortal Echoes series? 

Yes, I have chapter one done! I've also written a second short story, about two other Echoes and their Immortal.  I'm hoping to fit all of my characters into the book, which will be about an Echo and a Ghost. You can see a few little shorts set in the Echo world on my blog. :)

11. What other projects are you currently working on? 

Way too many! :) The sequel to Sweet Light is complete. It is called Dark Madness and I just have to edit it before submitting. I recently finished another short story based on the children's song Ring Around the Rosey, which is also in my 'to edit' pile. I also (haha) just finished a YA book titled Broken Aro- edits are done and it will be submitted soon. I've been working on the sequel to it (no title yet) and the Echo book mentioned above.  Short stories I often come popping out of my head at any given moment as well, so I'll probably be writing more of them soon too.

Anything else you would like to say to your fans? Anything we can look forward to in the future from you?

Fans? I have fans? YAY! I LOVE YOU! I would like to thank all of my awesome family and friends (in RL and online) for all of their continued support. Super duper big thanks to Trish (and her mom!) You two have been so wonderful I can't even put it into words! (gasp) To my readers, I hope you enjoy my stories and will come back for more. I'd love to hear from you!

The future...

The Forgotten Echo will be released March 1 2011

Sweet Light is to be released in May I believe.

I also have another Jump story, and another Echo story sent in for consideration, so cross your fingers for me! :D

I've had the honor of reading some of Jennifer's works (It rocks to be a reviewer some days!) And Ms. Wylie's writing is fantastic!  Thanks so much Jenn for stopping by YA Bound and sharing with us today! I wish you all the best in your success and more! You can find more about her and her writing at these links:

  

Jennifer's website: www.jenniferwylie.ca

Jennifer's blog: http://jlwylie.wordpress.com/

Author Miniview: Lorna Suzuki and daughter Nia Suzuki

You can find my review of The Dream Merchant Saga- The Magic Crystal here.

Miniview:

1.  What was the inspiration behind the Dream Merchant Saga?

When I finished writing the 9^th and final novel in the Imago series I decided it was time to write something that was suitable for my daughter to read in it’s entirety. With the Imago series, because of the graphic violence and adult content, Nia was only able to read the abridged, toned down version so I wouldn’t warp her impressionable, young mind!

Also, from a creative standpoint and my willingness to take on challenges, I wanted to see if I could write something that a YA audience would find appealing, but adult readers could also enjoy.

With The Dream Merchant Saga, this idea came about when Nia and I were discussing possible storylines. They say one rule of writing YA is to write about issues that this age group can relate to. In my daughter’s case, she was always taken aback by young people with a sense of entitlement, the kids who just expected their parents to give them everything they wanted even if they didn’t need it or it wasn’t a special occasion like a birthday. She just couldn’t wrap her head around her peers who felt they deserved the latest in high-tech gadgets, brand-name clothes, etc. and just expected these things to be handed to them. This is how the heroine, Princess Rose was created and how the storyline of ‘be careful what you wish for’ and knowing the difference between wanting something and needing it came to be.

2.  Your daughter Nia is co-writing the series with you, how is it working with her? Do you both always agree, or do you feed off of each other’s enthusiasm?

Lorna~ In Book One The Magic Crystal, Nia acted as my YA Consultant as it had been a zillion years ago since I was her age. We would discuss the characters, the storylines, the characters’ backstories, etc. I would also test out various scenes and dialogue to get feedback from her.

With Book Two The Silver Sword, Nia is actually writing a portion of each chapter. As for always agreeing? When I wrote the opening scene of this sequel, Nia read it and said, “Mom, this is good, but I think it can be better.”

I responded with, “Okay, show me.”

Nia promptly sat down at my laptop and began typing. When she was done and I read her opening scene, I was very pleasantly surprised. Now, when the sequel is published, you’ll be reading the opening scene written by Nia.

Nia~ My mom is really excited to write with me and it’s been fun. We discuss things and what direction we’d like the story to go in, but I think it’s great when I write something she wasn’t expecting and she can still make it work. She always encourages me, but I don’t have her level of dedication yet when it comes to writing practically every day.

3.  Can you give us a hint as to what we can expect in the second novel?

This should make you happy. The sequel picks up where book one ends, but this time the story focuses on Tag Yairet. He’s trying to live up to his father’s expectations and his own desire to fulfill his wish to become a knight. He has assumed a huge responsibility in undertaking this quest to help Rose reclaim the magic crystal, but when his plans go awry and his friends’ lives are endangered, he begins to question his abilities and must fight to reclaim his faith before he is destroyed by the lack of it.

Thank you for taking the time to read The Magic Crystal and for this interview!

You can find The Magic Crystal and Ms. Suzuki's other novels, like the Imago series, and more about her on her blog here.

Yes! I love Tag! I can't wait for the second book =) Thank you Lorna and Nia for joining us on the blog to share in your adventure! The Magic Crystal was a wonderful read! Review of Ms. Suzuki's first book in the Imago series, A Warriors Tale, soon to come!

A quick note on plot and structure

With NaNo coming to a close and everyone about to take on the ever so fun, daunting task of editing, I wanted to blog a quick reminder about staying on plot. One of the most crucial elements of writing a novel is maintaining its plot and structure. We all recognize this when we’re reading, but for writers embarking on writing a novel for the first time, it can become elusive; getting lost to us as we focus on our characters and scenes. I love the book Plot & Structure, it was one of the first books I picked up when I decided I wanted to take writing seriously. Mr. Bell lays it all out in simple English and one of the most helpful pieces of advice I found was to picture the transitioning of you book as doorways. Mr. Bell describes plot points as “doorways of no return”. The door is the barrier, the conflict. Something big happens right before your character reaches the door, forcing them to move forward. And each time your character goes through one of these doors there is no turning back for him/her, thus thrusting them forward in motion toward their goal.

The basic structure for a novel looks like the example up above. Imagine that the 1/5 way mark and the 3/4 way mark are the doorways in which your character must burst through in order to reach their next major conflict, until he/she reaches the end, the resolution. Act 1-the beginning. Act 2- the middle. And act 3- the end. Keeping your novel true to this format will ensure the proper pace of the novel. Now, there is always the exception to the rule, literary novels for one, but for the most part this formula works. It’s full proof and will keep your readers interested in the story and prevent long, dragging beginnings that require a lot of buildup, or abrupt endings that leave more to be desired. Be kind to your readers =) 

What are the major issues some of you have difficulty with when plotting your novel?

PrincessReviews Giveaway Madness and Book Review

The girls over at PrincessReviews are too fun! They give some awesome reviews on YA books and a lot, A LOT of giveaways! Here is a rundown of their current giveaways with links!

Fall Contest!

 

Why I love PrincessReviews Giveaway!

Joann I. Martin Sowels Interview and GIVEAWAY!!!

Gratitude Giveaway!

100 Follower Giveaway!

WOW! So head on over there, become a follower, and make sure to read the contest rules to enter.

Here's a review of The Art of Racing in the Rain by PrincessReviews! Enjoy!

From Goodreads: Enzo knows he is different from other dogs: a philosopher with a nearly human soul (and an obsession with opposable thumbs), he has educated himself by watching television extensively, and by listening very closely to the words of his master, Denny Swift, an up-and-coming race car driver. Through Denny, Enzo has gained tremendous insight into the human condition, and he sees that life, like racing, isn't simply about going fast. Using the techniques needed on the race track, one can successfully navigate all of life's ordeals.

On the eve of his death, Enzo takes stock of his life, recalling all that he and his family have been through. In the end, despite what he sees as his own limitations, Enzo comes through heroically to preserve the Swift family, holding in his heart the dream that Denny will become a racing champion with Zoë at his side.

A heart-wrenching but deeply funny and ultimately uplifting story of family, love, loyalty, and hope, The Art of Racing in the Rain is a beautifully crafted and captivating look at the wonders and absurdities of human life...as only a dog could tell it.

PrincessReviews: This is an excellent book! IF you liked Marley and Me, then you will love this book. It takes the reader on a journey thru the eyes and life of man's best friend--a dog. It is written as if Enzo ( the dog )is telling the story. It takes you from his puppy years until the end. It shows how that the love between a man and his best friend expand through time and is always there for you. You can always count on the companionship and loyalty even in the worst of time. This book is a definite read for all animal lovers!

 

IMM #1 My first one!

I'm so lazy! It's not that I don't get, buy, or receive books to read every week, it's the fact that I'm so busy reading, reviewing, and writing; I simply forget to blog about them ;). But, today I'm making an effort. Thanks Story Siren for your awesomeness!

Received via Netgalley for review:

Bought this week:

Can't wait to start reading them, hope I finish NaNo soon!


In My Mail box was created by The Story Siren for bloggers to share their haul of books. 

Review: Rising Shadow by Jacquelyn Wheeler

From Goodreads: Ashlyn Woods just transferred to one of the most beautiful campuses on the west coast, where she can't wait to start her life over as a normal college student. But her plans take an unexpected turn when she discovers that she is a Soterian: a person who develops amazing powers when the balance of good and evil shifts too far in evil's favor. Soon she and the other Soterians are studying martial arts and learning to use their powers to prevent California from being plunged into chaos. But they quickly discover that they're up against a much more dangerous enemy than they anticipated. And when Ashlyn meets Kai, a devastatingly gorgeous guitar player, she realizes she must sacrifice more than she ever imagined.

Review: I love doing movie comparisons with books, and Rising Shadow is a wonderful mix between Buffy (the show) and Star Wars. The Soterians are endowed with supernatural powers and answer to a mentor. Ashlyn’s powers are amazing; I love her role among the Soterians. She is strong, smart, and very relatable. Though she’s made some mistakes in her past, she’s willing to move on and learn from them, empowering herself with knowledge and determination to hold fast to her convictions. The fight for good and evil is not merely one or the other like in most stories, but rather a fight for balance. Ms. Wheeler created a realistic and fantastic world within ours. The powers to contend with are of an evil we see every day in our world. There is a heavy political feel, but the plot pulls from this and is combined with the supernatural element to balance it well. Kai and Ashlyn- their relationship is a force to be reckoned with. I loved Kai’s confidant yet relaxed personality. Kai is not just any love interest; he’s her strength- her center. Though Ashlyn can very easily be swayed to the darker side, giving into pain or temptation, she rises above the enemies plan and stays true to herself and her heart. **SPOILER* What I enjoyed about Ms. Wheeler’s creation, is the fact that when evil, or the enemy is no longer a threat, the Soterians lose their powers during this time. It’s a unique twist, and one that makes the characters even more believable.* With love, romance, and high supernatural element, 

Rising Shadow was a great read, I give it 4 flames!

Paperback, 1st edition, 378 pages

Published September 10th 2009 by Jacquelyn Wheeler

The Iron Queen by Julie Kagawa

From Goodreads: My name is Meaghan Chase.

I thought it was over.That my time with the fey, the impossible choices I had to make, the sacrifices of those I loved, was behind me. But a storm is approaching, an army of Iron fey that will drag me back, kicking and screaming. Drag me away from the banished prince who's sworn to stay by my side. Drag me into the core of a conflict so powerful, I'm not sure anyone can survive it.

This time, there will be no turning back.

Review: Let's start off by taking a glace back at the first two books. Now, I love the story of the Iron Fey. The first book was like taking a trip down Alice's rabbit hole and discovering you entered a world similar to Wicked Lovely / the Labyrinth, but with Ms. Kawaga's own unique twist. The second book one upped it with a captivating love story between Meaghan and Ash. But I have to say Ms. Kagawa out did herself, blowing them both away in the Iron Queen. This is rare, but I find myself speechless and in awe of this book. If I could add another book/movie comparison to the mix, I would say it's all of the above and combining the Lord of the Rings now as well, but she added her own twist and voice, ramping up the tension to the breaking point with heart-stopping action, breath-taking romance, and emotionally charged, beautifully descriptive scenes. Meaghan Chase is not the same mousy girl we first met, she is strong, self-reliant, confident, and ready to take charge. Ash, the Ice prince, as an exile is now allowed to release his guarded heart and we are introduced to a new, vulnerable side of him. His character is far better developed, and I was left craving more of him by the end. Puck, the ever humorous prankster, becomes a bit jaded but still is able to help his friends by overcoming his own self-defeat and rising to the challenge of not only rekindling their friendship, but also becoming Meaghan's warrior. The book also answers questions that Meaghan has been asking through the series- about her father, Ash's true feelings for her, and her place in Faery. The next book is going to be from Ash's POV, and I personally am teetering on the edge of lunacy to get my hands on it! 

This is by far the best book of the series. I give The Iron Queen five flames!

Paperback, 384 pages

Published February 1st 2011 by Harlequin Teen

Review: Being Jamie Baker by Kelly Oram

From Goodreads: "Most superhero stories start with a meteor shower or a nasty insect bite, but mine actually starts with a kiss..."

An accident that should end in tragedy instead gives seventeen-year-old Jamie Baker a slew of uncontrollable superhuman abilities.

To keep her secret safe Jamie socially exiles herself, earning the title of Rocklin High’s resident ice queen. But during a supercharged encounter with star quarterback Ryan Miller she literally kisses anonymity goodbye. Now the annoyingly irresistible Ryan will stop at nothing to melt the heart of the ice queen and find out what makes her so special.

Unfortunately, Ryan is not the only person on to her secret. Will Jamie learn to contain her unstable powers before being discovered by the media or turned into a government lab rat?

More importantly, can she throw Ryan Miller off her trail before falling in love with him?

Review: Did you read that first line up there? That’s the first line of the book, wow. I love that line! What better way to start off a novel than with a kiss? I was at a writer’s conference a few weeks ago, and someone brought up a question in one of my sessions about voice. She didn’t understand what all the writers and agents meant by a novel having a voice. Well, if you are a writer and this is a mystery to you, I suggest reading Being Jamie Baker. This novel is a prime example. The author has a rare talent to make you feel as if you’re not reading, but listening in on someone’s private thoughts. Not only that, but Jamie is a wonderful character who I related to easily. If I were in her situation, I imagine I would handle it in much the same way and with the same attitude as would any girl, any real girl. It’s always refreshing to read something with a little bit of humor, and I found myself laughing with Jamie and Ryan. The two of them definitely have “sparks” and I can’t help but love a guy pursuing a girl who doesn’t want to be chased, ahh, its good fun. Ryan Miller is your typical Mr. Popular for all intents and purposes, but as you get to know him through Jamie’s eyes, you see that he has a depth and sincerity that not only can melt the Ice Queens heart, but also have you swooning and  wanting him to win her over. This is a great and beautiful love story with a bit of humor and drama thrown in the mix to make a wonderfully crafted novel.

I highly, highly recommend it! I give it 5 flames!

Paperback, first, 353 pages

Published June 14th 2010 by Bluefields

Review: The Magic Crystal- The Dream Merchant Saga by Lorna and Nia Suzuki

From Goodreads: Be careful what you wish for takes on a whole new meaning…

When a good wish goes bad, a beautiful princess despised by all, a lowly court jester who was meant to be a great knight and a village idiot with a mysterious past are thrust together by fate. Made to embark on a perilous and unorthodox quest, they set off to break a dreaded curse.

Along the way, a series of trials await them in strange lands far from home. From a powerful Wizard and a shape-shifting Sprite to the flamboyant Elves and an army of mimes, they encounter an array of unforgettable friends and foes as they set off to recover a silver locket to destroy the curse.

In a race against time, pursued by a Sorcerer on the hunt for this same locket, an epic journey becomes a trying, humorous adventure of self-discovery and a test of true loyalty and friendship for this unlikely trio as they fight to survive this quest and ultimately, each other. 

My thoughts: High Fantasy is not on the top of my list, with the exception of a few of my favorites; The Princess Bride, Dragonfly, Graceling, and others the like, yet it never moved me enough to sore past my love of the paranormal… until now. From the first page, nay, from the first paragraph, The Magic Crystal sucked me in and I was battling with myself to keep reading or work on my NaNo book ;) Let’s just say… Dream Merchant Saga: one NaNo book: zero. I couldn’t’ stop reading.

Review: The saga is a collaboration between Lorna and her daughter Nia. They make one awesome writing duo! Rose is a truly unique character. I wanted to hate her, I tried, but she was just so darn fun! I loved being angry with her, yelling out loud that she was about to do something extremely wrong or that she should “shut her pie hole”! The emotions I shared with Rose on her adventures brought me as close to a character as I’ve ever been. The interaction between Tag and Rose was wonderful. Nothing says true love like constant bickering and loathing of one another- oh, their banter had my in tears, tears of laughter! Rose swears her court jester is not funny, but I have to disagree. Tag has a great sense of humor despite Rose’s short comings and also, he’s quite the charmer. Tag’s outlook on life helped me relate to him the most. And it helps that he is destined to be a knight; brave, suave, witty, strong and insightful. Yes, I fell in love with Tag right away. During their quest they gained a new member and friend, Cankles, depicted as the village idiot, however, his evaluation of many things proves he may be slow, but he is no idiot. They three form a close bond of friendship and learn from one another to trust and depend on each other. The dialog in this book is brilliant. Ms. Suzuki and her daughter have a gift, not one time in this book did I think I was reading a book about characters; they were living, breathing people that I simply followed along and fell in love with. They also have a gift for making people laugh. It is difficult to write humor into a novel, but I found myself having to put the book down because I was laughing too hard at times to see straight, I am not exaggerating. There is a great lesson and message also, but at no time did I feel that I was being preached at or beaten over the head, it is hidden and discovered in the story and you discover it right along with the characters through their humorous and fantastic journey. I didn’t think that I could love a fantasy story more than The Princess Bride, but with the realistic and captivating dialog, thought provoking story line and Tag (yes he alone is enough) it’s now my new favorite Fantasy. I can’t wait for the sequel to be released. Do yourself a favor and pick this book up, you won’t regret it!

I can’t stress enough how much I enjoyed this book, I give The Magic Crystal 5 flames!

Published September 2010

386 pages

Author Miniview with Ms. Suzuki here Check it out!

Holding out for an agent?

At last night’s #YALITCHAT discussion it was open topic and someone raised a question about whether to keep holding out for an agent or begin submitting to smaller houses (publishers). Only being able to respond in 140 characters or less, sometimes it’s difficult to convey just how you feel, and I believe I may have been misunderstood (wouldn’t be the first time for me). So, I am doing what all writers do when wanting to get their message across, blogging about it. 

Each writer’s road to publication is different, for the most part, but we all have one thing in common- the dream of publication. Now, some may want more fame, respect, money, and publicity than others, but we all still want that recognition, validation, that we are an author.

This is my personal (mind you personal) opinion on becoming a published author. I completed my first novel last November. In December I set out blindly querying agents and got many rejections- for a good reason- my book and I were not ready. Though I still love the story of my first novel, really it was only practice and a great learning experience. I was not upset by the 15 rejections I received at all. I set out to work on my craft and had 6 short stories published over this past year along with completing my second novel that I bleed, sweated, cried and slaved over. I believe this novel to truly be my first, my first WORTHY novel and am now in the process of querying again. Though this time I have done my research and know more about agents and the publishing industry.

With that being said, back to the topic of agent vs. small/self pubbed rout. For myself I want an agent. I believe I or a small house will not be able to do for me what an agent can. They have devoted much, much more time in learning and maneuvering in the publishing world, and I will simply not ever know as much as them. As of today, I’ve sent out 15 queries. 6 rejections and one partial request. And I am working on a new novel. However, I decided before I ever finished the book that if after querying every agent I felt was a good match for me turned down the book, I would then look into subbing to smaller houses. I believe that there is nothing wrong with going to a smaller house to try and accept your work, IF you believe the book is ready! I read everything from NYT Bestsellers to self-published authors and find that I love them both equally, IF they are wonderful and written well. 

It would be a sad world if we were only allowed to purchase books from one venue; if what was on the shelf at our local book store was the only thing available to read. This business and opinions on what people like and want is highly subjective. It’s only fair to give the public a choice on what they can read and where they want to read it from. I would be so disheartened if I was never able to read the wonderful works of indie authors. Two books that have become my fast favorites were self-published and from a smaller house.  So I find nothing at all wrong with going that rout if you are willing to accept that your book won’t get as much exposure. For me, that’s fine. I have social phobia anyway. At times I think going small may even be the right venue for me. Although there are days that I love writing so much that I am able to get over that fear and push through to go to conferences and meet people.

It just boils down to simply what do you want??? It is your book, your hard labor invested in it. If you absolutely must have an agent, then shelf the novel that is not getting positive feedback, and write another. If you love your characters and story and feel content that maybe a handful of other people will too, and that’s enough for you at this time, then sub it to smaller houses, self-publish! You can always work on another book while you’re doing that and attempt once again to gain an agent. Personally, it would be a shame if all the writers out there shelved their works that didn’t get repped, I would have missed out on some epic reads.

How do you feel? Play nice!!!

Here is an informative look at it from an agents perspective. Click here to go to the site.

Review: Promise by Kristie Cook

From Goodreads: Alexis Ames has a life full of promise…but not all promises can be kept.

When Alexis Ames is attacked by creatures that can’t be real, she decides it’s time she learns who she really is, with or without the help of her mother, who guards their family’s secrets closely. After meeting the inhumanly attractive, multi-talented Tristan Knight, however, Alexis retreats behind her façade of normalcy…until she discovers he’s not exactly normal either. Then their secrets begin to unravel.

Their union brings hope and promise to her family’s secret society, the Angels’ army, and to the future of mankind. But it also incites a dangerous pursuit by the enemy – Satan’s minions and Tristan’s creators. After all, Alexis and Tristan are a match made in Heaven and in Hell.

Review: I received this book from my mother with an adamant “YOU MUST READ”. Going in, I was skeptical. For one, it’s not considered YA. I would classify it more in the Cross Over/Romance genre, and the Romance genre is not my forte’. But I was so so so happy to be wrong about my initial opinion. The MC, Alexis, is a strong, original female character no matter what genre it’s classified as. At 19, she has been kept in the dark her whole life about who she is; dealing with strange “quirks” that forces her to isolate herself from friends and potential love interests. Always on the run, her best and only friend, her mother, and her share a close and bonded relationship despite never divulging the truth to Alexis. After her current transition into a new town and college, Alexis meets Tristan Knight, who shatters her defenses, opening up her heart to the possibility of accepting love and herself. This is one of the most passionate love stories I have ever had the privilege of reading. Tristan is smoldering in PROMISE. Strong, confident, protective, intelligent, and beautiful, he captivates Alexis in a whirlwind of a romance and forbidden love that kept me holding my breath through the whole novel. I had to remind myself to breathe as they fight for their love and lives in a unique, NEW paranormal plot. I believe Ms. Cook has taken the best parts of my favorite books and compiled them together to create the ultimate love story, yet she put her own spin on it, making it one of my favorite novels of all time. Also, writers will identify with Alexis as she is also a writer, on a journey to finish and publish her own novel. The second book to the series is released in December. I’m so happy I don’t have to wait long!
Easily one of the best books I’ve read all year, I give PROMISE 5 flames!

Paperback, 368 pages

Published July 30th 2010 by Ang'dora Productions, LLC

Review: Halo by Alexandra Adornetto

From Goodreads: Nothing much happens in the sleepy town of Venus Cove. But everything changes when three angels are sent from heaven to protect the town against the gathering forces of darkness: Gabriel, the warrior; Ivy, the healer; and Bethany, a teenage girl who is the least experienced of the trio. They work hard to conceal their true identity and, most of all, their wings.

But the mission is threatened when the youngest angel, Bethany, is sent to high school and falls in love with the handsome school captain, Xavier Woods. Will she defy the laws of Heaven by loving him? Things come to a head when the angels realize they are not the only supernatural power in Venus Cove. Theirs is a new kid in town and he′s charming, seductive and deadly. Worst of all, he′s after Beth.

Review: I have to applaud Ms. Adornetto for her character development work. There were many times that I felt I didn’t just know Bethany, the story being in the first person from her POV, but that I could actually predict what she would say or may do in a situation. That is how close I felt to this character. Bethany has a heart of gold, she is an angel of course, but she is a genuine person also. She deals with common teenage issues and has to figure out how to get herself out of everyday messes much like a typical girl. The author truly gets you inside her head, and we follow her, stumbling and bumbling and discovering all through her journey as she struggles with adapting to the human world. Reading a supernatural book from the supernatual’s POV is an interesting change of pace also. That being said, I believe I was able to get to know her so well because of the huge build up in the beginning of the book. The story started off very slow and eventually we are given a little more conflict once we read past 100 pages of the book. I’m not saying that the beginning was boring, it obviously kept me reading well past that, but I could have used a bit more conflict from the start, at least between Bethany and Xavier to really ratchet up the tension between the two of them. But once Bethany’s and Xavier’s relationship took off, I was engrossed in their love, cheering for them and enjoying their story. Theirs is not an easy love, they have their battles to tend with, but they are able to look to one another and depend, trust each other to get through them. It is an inspiring love and I can’t wait to see where the next book takes them. All in all, Halo was an enjoyable read. I felt at times for the length of the book the author could have added more conflict or added another twist to reward the reader for following along, but it was complete and the overall plot was strong. A beautifully crafted story that reminds us that love and trust, convictions and honor, can overcome the evil in the world.

I give Halo 3 flames!

Hardcover, 496 pages

Published August 31st 2010 by Feiwel & Friends

NaNoWriMo

Ok NaNoWriMo peeps. I know your tired but maybe this Blog Hop will give you some motivation! Tells us how you're doing? How many words you have so far and what has been difficult for you and what has made you stronger? How did you work through a tough scene or how you get by with writing so many words and keeping up with everyday life. Or anything else at all you want to point out or have a say!

Word Count for me today so far: 6746

Your turn!

Review: Sleepless by Cyn Balog BOOK and SIGNED SWAG GIVEAWAY!

I received some awesome signed swag from the super nice Ms. Balog and want to share the wealth! I'll also be giving away a copy of SLEEPLESS. All you need to do to be entered to win is follow this site +2, comment on the review +2, and tweet about it (leave link in comment box) +2. Not nessasarily all of those things, but if you'd like to do all three to earn extra points, GREAT! All you need to really do is comment on this post =) To check out what I'm giving away there's a pic on my website @ http://TrishaWolfe.com Good luck!

From Goodreads: Eron DeMarchelle isn't supposed to feel this connection. He is a Sandman, a supernatural being whose purpose is to seduce his human charges to sleep. Though he can communicate with his charges in their dreams, he isn't encouraged to do so. After all, becoming too involved in one human's life could prevent him from helping others get their needed rest.

But he can't deny that he feels something for Julia, a lonely girl with fiery red hair and sad dreams. Just weeks ago, her boyfriend died in a car accident, and Eron can tell that she feels more alone than ever. Eron was human once too, many years ago, and he remembers how it felt to lose the one he loved. In the past, Eron has broken rules to protect Julia, but now, when she seems to need him more than ever, he can't reach her. Eron's time as a Sandman is coming to a close, and his replacement doesn't seem to care about his charges. Worse, Julia is facing dangers she doesn't recognize, and Eron, as he transitions back to being human, may be the only one who can save her....

Even once they've become human again, Sandmen are forbidden to communicate with their charges. But Eron knows he won't be able to forget Julia. Will he risk everything for a chance to be with the girl he loves?

Review: When I saw this book on the shelf in my local book store, I thought, how sweet! It appears to be a fast read, the binding not being too thick, and the beautiful flower cover comes across girly sweet. What I discovered, however, was the opposite. Sure it starts off rather sweet, fast and to the point (which I like) but it takes the reader through the lives of true teenage emotions and problems, though there is the supernatural element involving Eron being a sandman. Eron lost his life, but not himself. Although he has become a sandman after his death, he is still the person he was nearly 100 years prior. Eron is a strong, charming, attractive and positive character. I liked him right from the start. Julia’s personality and social phobia challenges I could relate to very well, more than well, it was like reading about myself as a teenager. Julia starts off very dependent on her boyfriend, Griffon, who is the classic macho jerk at their school. She lets him make decisions for her and even depends on his candid sense of humor to desensitize her so she doesn’t have to feel. But once Griffon is killed in a car accident, Julia is faced with having to deal with people and the reality of herself and problems. When she meets Eron there is an instant connection to him, though he is rather unlike what she is accustomed to in boys. Eron is a gentleman, treats her with respect and guards her with his life. I was pleasantly surprised by the plot of this book. I live to read paranormal romance and thought that this would be slack in the romance department, but found the building of true love, not just lust, between Julia and Eron, refreshing. Overall this book held my attention and I think that it is a wonderful read for young women coming into the age where boys are becoming a big part of their lives. The book also teaches, not in a beating over the head kind of way, that no girl should allow anyone to talk down to them or treat them with disrespect. And that they have to find their own voice and strength to get through difficult situations. I am definitely going to read this lovely love story again. 


Check out the Author Miniview (little interview) with Ms. Balog here.

I give Sleepless 4 flames

Author Cyn Balog

Hardcover, 215 pages

Published July 13th 2010 by Delacorte Books for Young Readers

Author Miniview: Cyn Balog

Welcome to the YAbound blog Ms. Cyn Balog, author of FAIRY TALE and SLEEPLESS. She was super nice to offer signed swag for the giveaway and also an awesome Author Miniview for the aspiring authors that follow this site.

Author Miniview:

Ms. Balog, Sleepless was such an original idea, tell me, what drew you to the myth of the sandman?

I was driving home, wondering what my next book should be about and knowing I should write a paranormal follow-up to my first paranormal novel, and the Sandman idea just came to me. Instead of being the childhood myth, though, about the man who comes to leave sand in childrens' eyes, I saw him as seducing women to sleep, and falling in love with one charge whom he'd grown very close to over the years.

You were an established author before Sleepless came out with Fairy Tale already in print, if you think back, can you tell other aspiring authors out there a bit about your journey to publication?

I only got serious about writing for publication maybe 5 years ago, even though I'd been a writer from a young age. I found an agent fairly easily, because my critique partner referred me to her agent, so I was very lucky. But my first book didn't sell. When my agent heard that I was working on a fairy story, she told me to finish it right away, because she thought it would be a strong debut for me. She was right-- there was a lot of editor interest in it and it sold in a pre-empt to Delacorte fairly quickly.

I fell in love with the character of Eron, it's like reading poetry when reading from his point-of-view. Can you give us a glimpse into the way you develop you characters? Do you know them completely before you begin the book, or do they develop as you write? 

With my books, since my books are mainly plot-driven, the plot really determines the characters. I really know nothing about the characters before I start; I weave in certain characteristics as I'm going along. For example, I realized that Eron would be more likely to form a special bond with his charge, Julia, had she experienced some traumatic incident as a child that he protected her through.  So I added that later.  But from the beginning, I based Eron on my grandfather. I remember him being disgusted when I left the house wearing leggings as a teen. He was very much a product of his time.

Thanks again to Ms. Balog for answering our questions. Check out the book review for SLEEPLESS and the GIVEAWAY.