Tuesday, December 24, 2013

.99 cent sale

 Check out our .99 cent special just in time for all those new ipads, phones, kindles.


Here are 31 more reasons to $ave on this after-Christmas $ale! Thirty-one ebooks for 99¢ each. They will be on sale from December 24, 2013 through Tuesday, December 31, 2013. Click the links below the graphic to "look inside" each book on Amazon and download your digital copies!

CHILDREN’S BOOKS

The Camera Shy Monster by Susette Williams

Has your child ever hated to have their picture taken? Then you will enjoy reading The Camera Shy Monster as much as your child or grandchild will enjoy having this entertaining picture book read to them. Brooke doesn’t want her picture taken. She runs away and meets Nessie, a friendly sea monster, who also hates having her picture taken. But how can Nessie take care of Brooke? Nessie comes up with a plan to rescue Brooke and get her to enjoy having her picture taken. BUY The Camera Shy Monster HERE
 

The Day My Parents Got Lost by Susette Williams

Has your child ever wandered off--or do you worry that they will? 'The Day My Parents Got Lost' is a fun story that gives parents and teachers the opportunity to talk with children about the importance of staying together when you go places, especially amusement parks, so that nobody gets lost. I remember when my oldest daughter wandered off in a store when she was a toddler. She was so upset with us and blamed us for leaving her. Obviously we didn't leave her--but in her mind we were the ones who wandered off. All these years later, that fearful time, when she wandered away, is still in my mind. Unfortunately, in today's society, we have to teach our children about 'stranger danger' and staying with us in stores and crowds. This story is a fun way to convey the importance of staying together without scaring them about the possible dangers--that even we don't want to think about--that lurk out there in the real world. BUY The Day My Parents Got Lost HERE
 

Wacky Wishes by Susette Williams

What would you wish for if you could have anything you wanted? Tommy and Suzie find a wishing well and like children do, they begin making wishes. Imagine their surprise when their wishes start to come true! Are spacesuits the new dress code at school? What's Tommy going to do with three heads? You've heard of, "Be careful what you wish for, you just might get it." When Tommy and Suzie's wishing gets out of hand, will they be able to wish away the mess they've created before their wishes run out? BUY Wacky Wishes HERE
 

Sarge Gets a Timeout by Susette Williams

A boy and his dog’s friendship are tested when lies and betrayal come between them. Is revenge a viable teaching tool or can the two come to an understanding and regain their friendship? It’s a battle of wits against boy and beast in which the two find out if a dog truly is man’s best friend. BUY Sarge Gets a Timeout HERE

 
AllyNathaniel Bubbles Day
Bubbles, a four years old girl, loves bubbles. She loves watching them, she loves touching them and she wants to learn how to blow them all by herself. Do you think it's easy? Will Bubbles be able to blow bubbles without any help? BUY Bubbles Day HERE

 
Ally Nathaniel My Snow Day
 The perfect Christmas book that will empower your child. It’s the first day of snow and Gabbi and her siblings are about to get creative. They have the most brilliant idea: they will build the best snow-woman ever! This book will not only empower your child by sending the message that children can trust their own thinking and ideas, and implement them all by themselves, but will also emphasize the importance of team work. BUY My Snow Day HERE
 

Tali Carmi Terry Treetop and the Lost Egg
This fun children's picture book is about a boy with red hair and freckles named Terry, yet everybody calls him Terry Treetop because he loves climbing trees. Terry finds a small egg, and his quest is to bring it back home to its mom. But where is the egg's home? Does the egg belong to a turtle on the sand or a crocodile's spring water? Did it come from a frog in a pond or a chicken in the wild? BUY Terry Treetop and the Lost Egg HERE

 
Tali Carmi Terry Treetop Finds New Friends
Want to Help Your Kids Win Friends? #1 Best seller in Children's Action & Adventure Books ! (Animal Habitats & Environment children's book collection) This is a wonderful book about a boy named Terry, but everybody calls him Terry Treetop because he loves climbing trees. Terry was alone, so he went on a journey to find new friends to invite to his new tree house. He almost gives up when a new opportunity comes his way. Will Terry use this opportunity to find new friends? BUY Terry Treetop Finds New Friends HERE

 
Tali Carmi Where is My Home
This fun children's picture book is about a boy with red hair and freckles named Terry, yet everybody calls him Terry Treetop because he loves climbing trees. Terry is chasing a beautiful butterfly and wants to go back home. But where is Terry's home? And how can he find his way home? Does the rabbit in the borrow know? Does the beaver in the lodge know? Maybe the fawn's mother knows? Or can Susanne the squirrel help him? BUY Where is My Home? (Terry Treetop Series) HERE
 

Just The Way I Am by Idan Hadari

This is a touching and funny story, about a young child that discovers that he has a birthmark on his hand. He learns how to deal with it right up to the surprising end. A great deal of time and effort was invested in the illustrations of this book, as well as the idea behind the story, and binding it all together into a lovely children's story with great values. If you would like that your child not misses out on opportunities in life because of his/her lack self-confidence; whether it be public speaking; taking on leadership roles, or asking someone for a date; then we should teach them the lessons of how to face the challenges and situations they may not be equipped to handle, while they are still young, and before it is too late. Self-esteem determines how successful they will become. Low self-esteem and confidence can affect even the most powerful men and women, no matter how smart, educated or "attractive" they are. BUY Just The Way I Am HERE
 

Andrew’s Claim to Fame by Idan Hadari

This children's book is a touching story, full with all sort of feelings & emotions that you can share with your child. They might have a problem in school/pre-school or any other social activity to win friends or to be noticed an accepted as "One of the group". Would your children like to be famous as soon as possible? Are they impatient about life in general (I want this and right now!)? Are they unaware of their gifts? Are they dreamers, but don't have enough faith? This is a touching and funny story, about a young child that wants to be famous ASAP. He learns how to deal with it right up to the surprising end. A great deal of time and effort was invested in the illustrations of this book, as well as the idea behind the story, and binding it all together into a lovely children's story with great values. BUY Andrew’s Claim to Fame HERE
 

Noah’s Petting Zoo by Idan Hadari

This is a wonderful children's bedtime & dreaming story about an old house (Noah) in a new neighborhood, which is about to be demolished to make way for a new building. Andrew, a young child, who loves to play with his friends nearby, is doing everything he can to save the old house. Will Andrew be able to save the old house Noah? Well, you'll just have to read the book to find out what happened. More about this Children's Zoo Book: The short story demonstrates to children how to crusade for what they believe in; to be more environmental friendly; how to help one's fellow man; what true friendship is; and of course, to like and to play with all of the adorable animals in the story. Bonus - A FREE Video Book Inside BUY Noah’s Petting Zoo HERE
 

CHRISTIAN FICTION

Shadows of Doubt by Susette Williams

Raffealle Gellermine has a very protective uncle and two protective brothers. They never like the men she brings home. Mathew Flannigan has a past, but for the life of her, she can’t figure out why her Uncle Rob and her brothers are trying to encourage a relationship between them. Could her brothers be right? Does she unconsciously choose the wrong type of men? Can she trust Mathew? Especially with her heart? Will shadows of doubt keep Raffealle from finding true love? Or will Mathew steal more than her heart? BUY Shadows of Doubt HERE
 

Falling in Love by Susette Williams

Katie Morgan has her future planned. It doesn't include becoming serious about anyone before she achieves her goals, not even her handsome boss. Just because she does not have time to date, doesn't mean her boss shouldn't. Her new mission...to make her boss happy, whether or not he wants to be. Wade McAlester fell in love with Katie the first day she walked into his clinic looking for a job. He hired her, content to settle for friendship until she lives out her dream of becoming a vet. Against his better judgment, Wade allows her to fix him up with a couple of her friends. The dates are disastrous. He can't believe the kind of women Katie seems to think he'd enjoy spending his life with. However, when Wade's old colleague, Dr. Laura Redmond shows up, Katie is rethinking how happy she wants her boss to be, and with whom. Definitely not the gorgeous doctor. BUY Falling in Love HERE
 

Honorable Intentions by Susette Williams

Have you ever wished you had a second chance with someone? Brand Stanford married Monica because she claimed to be carrying his child. Their marriage was one of convenience--for her. When they had finally become a happy family, Monica was killed in a skiing accident. Now, Brand is faced with having to raise their three-year-old daughter on his own. Tessa Duggan's family had been lifelong friends with the Stanfords; and even remained in contact with them after moving out of state. Tessa kept secrets to herself for nearly ten years. She'd loved Brand for as long as she could remember. Having raised a son on her own, Tessa knows what it's like to be a single parent. When Brand's wife dies in a skiing accident, Tessa agrees to help Brand's mother take care of his three-year-old daughter during the summer. Is it a chance for them to start over again? Or will Brand break her heart the second time around? BUY Honorable Intentions HERE
 

Christmas in Nashville by Elaine Littau

Bill and Betty Wall's popularity in the Country Music Scene is growing. Looking from the outside-in everything about her life seems perfect. Being a newlywed is nothing like she imagined and worry about Joey, her brother who is MIA from the Vietnam War, keeps her up at night. Betty's parents had tried everything they could think of to get information about him only to find that he was released from a POW camp and sent to the USA. Where could he be? Why didn't he come home to Oklahoma? After receiving a letter from a private investigator in regards to the child she put up for adoption over two years ago, Betty's life was further complicated. Her hopes were high that she might be able to mother the child she gave away only to be faced with court appearances and setbacks that stretched her faith in God to the limit. BUY Christmas in Nashville HERE
 

Walk Slowly Through the Dark by Elaine Littau

As soon as the wedding bells stopped ringing Roy and June Miller had to make adjustments in living as a married couple. Roy was a rough and gritty lawman who struggled to express emotions for his wife. June was a love-starved woman who had never heard words of endearment expressed in the way her heart needed. Would a separation make the marriage stronger or kill the love that had begun to grow? Set in the 1880s, Walk Slowly Through the Dark, takes the reader into the high altitude of a mountain top in Colorado. New characters are introduced and familiar characters face their own walk through the dark in hopes of reaching the light. BUY Walk Slowly Through the Dark HERE
 

Capture the Wandering Heart by Elaine Littau

In 1866 Palo Duro Canyon, Texas, a medicine woman's skills were put to the test as her little boy, Nobel, watched. A series of events began on that day and eventually drove him from the place that he loved until, years later, he returned to the canyon with his wife, Myrtle, and their children, There they fight against evil from the past and present. Myrtle and her friend, Sally, were rescued from a brothel as children. Sally takes the arduous trip to Texas in search of the mother who sold her to the evil man who took the girls to the mining camps of Colorado. Filled with romance, adventure, and history, Capture the Wandering Heart will hold you to the last page. BUY Capture the Wandering Heart HERE
 

Time and Again by Deborah Heal

It’s like being there. . . only you can fast forward or rewind. Abby thinks tutoring a “disadvantaged adolescent” as her college service project will be a snap. But the girl has been closed down ever since her parents’ divorce, especially since she was forced to move to a dilapidated old house. But then their crazy computer program invites them to “Take a Virtual Tour"…a tour of the past when the house was new and a girl named Charlotte Miles lived there 160 years before. BUY Time and Again HERE
 

Unclaimed Legacy by Deborah Heal

The olden days aren’t all they’re cracked up to be . . . Abby's time-surfing software comes in handy when she and her friends agree to help the "Old Dears" next door with their family tree. Except they learn more about one of the ladies’ ancestors than they ever wanted to know. Convicted in 1871 of murder and arson, Reuben Buchanan is a blight on the family’s reputation. But was he really guilty? Abby and John must get inside the mind of a murderer to find out. BUY Unclaimed Legacy HERE
 

Every Hill and Mountain by Deborah Heal

Visiting another century...not the summer vacation she had planned. Those who have read Time and Again and Unclaimed Legacy know that Abby Thomas is a college student on a summer service project. And they know that she has discovered a strange computer program that lets her fast-forward and rewind life. Not her own, of course, but those of the people who used to live in old houses. But "time-surfing" in the Old Slave House is almost too much to bear. Yet Abby and her friends are reminded that God is in the business of redemption--that one day he'll make all things new. BUY Every Hill and Mountain HERE

 
Laura J Marshall A Heart's Home
 Born in England and raised in India by her father after her mother's untimely death, Asyra has been ostracized from her small village most of her life. News of her impending marriage arranged by her grandmother back in England only serves to confuse her further about who she is and where she fits in. When Madras is attacked by the French before Asyra's ship sails, she must pretend to be the wife of her grandmother's agent, who happens to be the elder brother of her intended. Can she move beyond prejudice to find her place in the world? BUY A Heart's Home HERE
 

A Brother’s Vow by Naty Matos

Randall Benson didn't think life could be any better. His job with the family business allowed him to travel and meet new people. His relationship with his girlfriend the model, gave his access to all the red carpet events and parties, yet there was no requirement for him to be faithful. Although his family doesn't approve of his careless lifestyle, they love him and do whatever they can to keep him from self-destructing. Yet Randall’s only concern is Randall. Randall’s world begins to come undone after a series of unexpected events. As Randall tries to settle down and become more dependable , his twin brother Brian seems to be headed down a path that Randall is way too familiar. Brian makes an unusual request that nonchalantly he agrees to keep. He never thought that he would have to keep his word, but he does. As Randall struggles to fulfill his promise to his brother, he is confronted with challenges from his past. Will he succumb to his past and risk losing everything he’s worked so hard to accomplish? BUY A Brother’s Vow HERE



Street Justice Charlie's Angel Samantha Fury
Charlie's life in Northern Ohio is ordinary and consistent. When her dad loses his job, fighting becomes an everyday event. Moving in with her sister only makes matters worse. Her life is turned upside down. In a desperate attempt to find a safe haven,she ends up on the streets of Chicago. Here she's introduced to a different kind of world. A place where crime lords and women of the night come out to play. Charlie finds herself at the mercy of Rico DeLusa, a local crime lord. When she begins having feelings for one of Rico's employees, Angel Blackwell, she wonders if she's out of her element. Is she being drawn into their world, instead of being a light in a dark place? Blackmail, prostitution and drugs were never a part of her life, but they are now. Charlie finds herself in the middle of a fight between good and evil. She needs the strength to overcome, the wisdom to make the right choices, and the insight to follow what is right Instead of listening to her heart. BUY Charlie’s Angel HERE

 

The Assumption of Guilt by Amanda Tru

Nobody stops to think what it would be like to be arrested. That just doesn't happen to normal people, right? When a major theft happens at a party she's attending, Sophie James finds herself the prime suspect. Has she been framed or was she just in the wrong place at the wrong time? Now Sophie must convince the police, along with her cop boyfriend, that she's innocent. With no record, no motive, and no evidence, that shouldn't be difficult. Then why does no one seem to believe her? BUY The Assumption of Guilt HERE

 
Sherry Chamblee Babel's First Light
Her secret could doom the world. His honesty could save it. Jaiyl had felt many things in her young life - betrayal, fear, loneliness, anger - but never the love of a family. She was trained only to keep the family's many secrets. She was different, set apart, special they said - which really meant alone. Until one day, everything changed. Jaiyl must come to trust God, and those around her, or all was lost. Van knew there was an entire world out there beyond his mountains, but he could never quite bring himself to get up and go see it. Then someone from out there came to him. He gets thrown into a fight he didn’t start, with powerful people who don’t want to be found. He has to figure out what really conquers all, before it’s too late. Jaiyl is all secrets and fear, Van has nothing to hide, nothing to fear. Together they must fight for the freedom of those they love. BUY Babel’s First Light HERE

 
Sherry Chamblee Matchmaker Matchmaker
When a new guy comes to town, it’s time for the matchmaking to begin. Jack Adams came to Paradise because of a teaching job at the local Christian school, but he soon realizes that there are people in the church who have much bigger plans for him. With at least two eligible, unattached young ladies in the church, Jack finds himself the gold medal prize in a matchmaking competition worthy of the Olympics. Can he avoid being handed over in the winner’s circle? Will love find him anyway? BUY Matchmaker, Matchmaker HERE
 

NONFICTION

Words of Jesus Bible American Standard Version edition prepared by Russell Sherrard

Words of Jesus Bible – American Standard Version. This Bible is NOT a complete Bible, it just contains the words of Jesus. Therefore, it does not contain any of the Old Testament. If you look at any Bible that has “a red letter edition” you will have a “Words of Jesus Bible”. Since the Kindle is in black, white, and shades of gray, you cannot easily tell what the Words of Jesus are. This edition puts the words of Jesus in Red. On the Kindle they appear a lighter gray than the rest of the text. Of course, on the Kindle apps for iPhone, iPad, Blackberry, Kindle for PC, Kindle for Mac or the Kindle Fire these words appear in red. To try and keep the context the entire verse which Jesus speaks is included. BUY Words of Jesus Bible American Standard Version HERE
 

Words of Jesus Bible King James Version edition prepared by Russell Sherrard

Words of Jesus Bible – King James Version. This Bible is NOT a complete Bible, it just contains the words of Jesus. Therefore, it does not contain any of the Old Testament. If you look at any Bible that has “a red letter edition” you will have a “Words of Jesus Bible”. Since the Kindle is in black, white, and shades of gray, you cannot easily tell what the Words of Jesus are. This edition puts the words of Jesus in Red. On the Kindle they appear a lighter grey than the rest of the text. Of course, on the Kindle apps for iPhone, iPad, Blackberry, Kindle for PC, Kindle for Mac or the Kindle Fire these words appear in red. To try and keep the context the entire verse which Jesus speaks is included. BUY Words of Jesus Bible King James Version HERE
 

Interactive Romans Road American Standard Version edition prepared by Russell Sherrard

Long Ago, when the Roman Empire was at the height of its glory, a common saying was "All Roads Lead to Rome." I want to tell you about a very special road -- a road that existed then and still exists now. This road, now almost 2,000 years old, has never led to Rome. Yet, strangely enough, it is called the Romans Road. This takes the reader to selected passages in the Book of Romans in the Bible to explain the plan of Salvation. This is the ideal way to share the gospel using your Kindle. The reader can also read the entire book of Romans un-interrupted. BUY Interactive Romans Road American Standard Version HERE
 

Sunday, December 22, 2013

Tis the Reason to be reading Giveaway

Tis the Season Reading: from  Kristin King Author's Blog

Check out the Novels you can win in this giveaway 

Samantha Lovern who also writes under Samantha Fury has a great Christmas-Christian read.  Maid for Martin  is a feature romance this month from the California Love Trilogy. It's a clean christian romance that is set around the Christmas Holiday.

You can enter to win this ebook if you sign up for the Tis the Season Giveaway launching this weekend find the contest link below.

In the story there is a bit of mistaken identity here that makes for a nice premise: The blurb says:
Martin Taylor is having issues with his live-in-love, Celia Carson. She’s not supporting his acting career and the upcoming Christmas party is stressing their relationship to a point of no return. On top of everything else he’s falling for the maid, Randi Sanders. Martin’s timing is always off, he never thinks things through, and to make matters worse, Randi has no idea he’s really Martin Taylor. She thinks he’s the limo driver. He hates to come forward with the truth because Randi’s making him feel like he hasn’t felt in years.
Do you watch book trailers?  Try this one via youtube link here.


Here are what some of the reviews say about this 4 Star read:
“I couldn’t put it down.”
“You have double-entendres, cat and mouse pacing, and great character development.”
“It has a great storyline with a twist that will make it impossible for you to put this one down!”
“I love books that are a series of books – it allows the reader to better get to know the characters in the book – it is almost like a tv series.”

 Buy “Maid for Martin” today or do what I did as an Amazon Prime member and borrow it for free. You can also listen to the audiobook while traveling this holiday by visiting this link at Audible.com.



  a Rafflecopter giveaway

Thursday, May 16, 2013

Book Blast: Wacky Wishes by Susette Williams enter to win 25.00

    ~~This contest is over thanks for looking ~~


Title: Wacky Wishes By Susette Williams Author, Jack Foster Illustrator

About the Book:

Tommy and Suzie find a wishing well and like children do, they begin making wishes. Imagine their surprise when their wishes start to come true! Are spacesuits the new dress code at school? What’s Tommy going to do with three heads? You’ve heard of, “Be careful what you wish for, you just might get it.” When Tommy and Suzie's wishing gets out of hand, will they be able to wish away the mess they've created before their wishes run out?
Buy on Kindle
Susette Williams Author, Jack Foster Illustrator Susette_300_dpiSusette Williams is a Best Selling Author. She loves writing various genres, both for children and adults. She usually can't resist the urge to let her ornery sense of humor shine through in one of her characters and has always believed that laughter helps you deal with the obstacles life puts in your way. Susette and her husband have six wonderful children, all with intriguing and different personalities, like the characters she creates in her novels. Jack Foster has illustrated over 25 children's books. He is a Sunday school teacher, art teacher and the father of five terrific children and eleven wonderful grand kids. He lives just outside of Chicago with his lovely wife, dog and cat. Check out his work at www.jacksillustrations.blogspot.com Follow Susette Williams Website | Facebook | Twitter

Enter to Win a $25 Amazon Gift Card!

Enter below to enter a $25 amazon gift card, sponsored by author Susette Williams Author, Jack Foster Illustrator! a Rafflecopter giveaway This book blast is hosted by Crossreads. We would like to send out a special THANK YOU to all of the CrossReads book blast bloggers!

Monday, May 13, 2013

Interview and Free Book Laura J. Marshall



Interview and Free Book

Today we are speaking with Author, Laura J. Marshall.  Her Novella, Persistent Love will be free May 14th & 15th on Amazon find the link below.  

Laura, tell us a little about you?
I have five sons and work full-time from home at my "day job". I love to sew (I make rag quilts) and I love to read.

  


Were big Pet lovers here do you have any pets?
Yes, I have a female cat and a female dog..I prefer to think the three fish my son has are females as well, then I'm not so outnumbered. My dog follows me from room to room during the day. She's a black lab.

Have you always wanted to be a writer?
Yes, since high school, but I never thought seriously about it until I started writing children's stories when
my children were young.

When did you start writing?
I've been writing seriously for about six years (meaning...with the belief I could actually write a book).


What would you like to tell us about your current book?
Persistent Love is Christian romantic suspense. The story is about the main character, Tara, who is planning to run away to India to find answers to her mother's death, which she witnessed as a child. The story takes place at Raven's Cliff Castle in the late 17th century in England.

How did you get into Self Publishing?
I had some really great responses from publishers and agents over this book. I actually changed the story quite a bit at one request and then realized it had lost "its heart". So, I changed everything back and decided on one last ditch effort at a publisher. That publisher really took a lot of time with me and with a critique, but I heard yet again..."do this and resubmit". I did take her wonderful advice and implemented the changes, had two editors who I hired go through Persistent Love, and then decided not to wait to launch. I had the tools I needed through friends who had self-published to do it myself.


Did you learn anything along the way as you wrote the book?
Many things. One of the best lessons though was to not let fear rule what I do in regards to writing. This book is about Tara and her fears and in the end, the lessons helped me to release the book to the world.

From start to finish, how long does it generally take you to write a book?
If I am working on it every day, it takes me about a month to write a book..that's not counting editing. My nonfiction devotionals take me about three months from start to finish and that includes edits.

Thanks for visiting with today helpful information would you like to pass on to our Indie Readers
There are some amazing Indie authors out there. I have discovered some of my favorite authors along the way to be Indie authors. I say give them a chance and see what awesome things independent Christian writers are doing out there to glorify God.

Persistent love is free May 14th & 15 check it out

 

Download on Kindle ( http://amzn.com/B00CHAE3QS)
Free Tuesday May 14th and Wednesday May 15th
Persistent Love:
Christian Romantic Suspense Novella set in 1685, England.

Fear has been Tara's constant companion since age nine when she witnessed her mother's murder. Tara's father moves his family to the ancient castle of Raven's Cliff, far from the ships that could carry her back to India and the answers she believes lie there. Andrew offers her friendship and guides her gently to the One who will give her peace. Will she find hope for something other than revenge?

A Brief Q&A with the Author, Laura J. Marshall.
Q: Can we expect to see the characters from Persistent Love in another story?

A:  You can expect to see Tara’s little sister in her own book, tentatively titled “Reckless Kate”. She somewhat stole the show every time she was in a scene and I couldn’t resist thinking of her as she grew up and how her own passionate, reckless faith effected those around her.


Laura J. Marshall is the full-time mother of five sons and part-time writer and blogger. She operates a popular blog called The Old Stone Wall. Laura is the best-selling author of the Battle Cry Devotional Series. Visit www.LauraJMarshall.com to find out more about Laura’s books.






Sunday, April 21, 2013

Interview with Caroline Gebbie


 

Another interview with  
Indie Authors 4-U 
Today we are talking to  Caroline Gebbie she writes Horror and Suspense.

Tell us a little about you?

I’m a British writer, who lives in beautiful South Yorkshire, England with two white boxer dogs, a husband and a lot of Koi. I’m a qualified accountant, but left my job a few years ago due to ill health. I now run a couple of businesses with my husband, and love to write in my spare time.





I love pets so tell us a little about your dogs?  I see a few ribbons.
I have always had a dog and as well as writing they are the love of my life. I would say, don’t tell my husband, but he already knows. I like to compete with them in competition obedience and recently Rally O. Dogs are great characters and Boxers doubly so, they give me lots of inspiration and often pop up in my writing.


Have you always wanted to be a writer? When did you start writing?
I have always been a big reader, even at junior school you would find me with my head in a book. I loved the black stallion books. Then I was introduced to, and fell in love with horror and thrillers, the darker the better. At school, the one subject I loved was English as it gave me the chance to write and to lose myself in my imagination. I was constantly writing stories, I also wrote to newspapers and magazines. 

Is the book you’re working on now your first Novel? Is it part of
a series? 
I’m working on two books at the moment. A collection of short stories which all include dogs, these range from cute to scary, and even the odd poem. Then I’m working on my second novel a horror/thriller where the youth of a small town are disappearing. This is written, I just have to do the bit I hate, editing. Flee, my first novel, is not part of a series but it could be in the future.



What would you like to tell us about your current book?
I’ve just published a supernatural thriller called Flee. I really enjoyed working on this book. It’s a fast paced thriller but I’m told is not for the faint hearted. It came about because of all the vampire books. I wanted to do something different, in it immortality has a high price. It follows a girl fleeing for her life when everyone may have reason to kill her, who should she trust. It has magic, terror, suspense and even some happy moments.





How did you get into Self Publishing?
I love writing but would be too lazy to approach publisher after publisher, a friend pushed me into putting my books out there and I can’t think of a better way.

Did you learn anything along the way as you wrote the book?
I learned loads, Flee was actually the second book I wrote but it needed less work than the first. I combine reading with writing and you learn all the time, you improve all the time. Flee also contains magic so I researched a lot for this book.

From start to finish, how long does it generally take you to write a book? 
That depends on how long I procrastinate. I usually take about a week to outline an idea, then a month to write, but editing can take me forever, especially if another story is shouting for me to write it.

What was the hardest part about the writing process?
Editing, I hate it. I work with a professional, but even so it is something I put off as long as I can.

What advice would you give aspiring writers? 
Write, read, write, read, and repeat forever. Find someone objective that you trust to critique your work and learn from each critique. But most importantly don’t give in.

For you personally, what is the best thing about being a writer?
I love to lose myself in a story but I also love to be able to walk my dogs whenever I want.


Are you learning anything new even in this stage of your craft? 
Absolutely, I research each book but also you constantly grow as a writer.

If you could change anything about novel what would it be?
I finished two novels five years ago, but then did nothing with them. If I could change anything it would be to publish them then.

What can folks expect from this point on?  More novels?
I have two novels written waiting editing, and more ideas than I could ever write. To quote Arnie, “I’ll be back.”



What have you learned lately that might help Authors,
new software, new editing service?
The support on the internet is brilliant, don’t be afraid to use it. Sites such as Indie Authors are a great resource, if you get stuck ask. I think the biggest problem new authors have is fear of getting their work out in public, find a partner who will critique your work, learn and build up your confidence.


When will you think as an author that you have arrived?
I hope I always want to improve but when it pays the bills will be a good milestone.


What did you learn doing the KDP Select?
 Be prepared and promote your heart out.

What do you think was the most helpful thing you did during the giveaway?
During the giveaway I’m not sure, but before it help other authors, build up a network of people that you have helped and they will help share your book.

What would you not do again during the giveaway?
Facebook adds.

I'd like to thank Caroline for being with us today. Her book Flee can currently be found here.

Link from anywhwere





I'd like to thank the bigstock photographers
for their great images. 

Javier Brosch
Annette Shaff
Ivan Mikhaylov
Edward Fielding
Steve Pepple 
T.A. Byrne 

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Samantha Fury is the author of  the Street Justice Series
She's written many articles on book covers, for Indie Authors.  
She operates several Indie Groups. Editing Services, Cover Artist, 
Helpful Indie Facebook Groups, and a wonderful Forum 
just for Indie Authors.









Thursday, March 28, 2013

Interview with Jackie Charley - Parent Coach




Another exciting interview coming to you from Indie Authors 4 - U  Come back every week and be sure and add us to your email list or book mark our page. Thanks and on to the Interview!





Jackie Charley tell us a little about you?
I’m a writer and a Parent Coach who helps stressed-out parents reconnect with their kids. My passion is to see parents realize their full potential as fulfilled individuals in their own right, as well as being effective in bringing up wonderful children. That’s why I felt I had to write my book.

I live in the beautiful Scottish borders with my husband, two boys, one dog and a gaggle of crazy chickens. Despite a very difficult time over the last year, my motto is still that life should always be lived with a mischievous sense of fun.


Tell us a little about your first book.
Most parenting books are only concerned with modifying a child's behavior. Unlock the Cage is different. It's as much about developing the parent, as it is about the child. Many people assume that being a parent is such an instinctive role that there's something wrong with them if they find it a struggle. They feel they are just 'muddling along', doing the best they can without understanding why they do the things they do, or how to do them better.

This book shows parents how to:
- Connect with their kids so they willingly include mum & dad in their world
- Be confident in themselves and the choices they make
- Prepare their kids for leadership; protect them from bullying, drugs, alcohol, media abuse and too much texting!
- Make time for themselves to discover how they can achieve their dreams in the midst of the chaos that is raising kids
- and so much more!



Have you always wanted to be a writer?  When did you start writing? 

I’ve always wanted to be a writer since before I could even write! When I was a toddler I used to ‘practice’ joined-up writing, filling reams and reams of paper with very grown-up looking scribble. 

Once I was at school there was no stopping me! In fact, one teacher I had was so enthusiastic about my writing that he used to get me to stay in at lunch times to write instead of going out to play. Mmmm, not sure how that would go down now!

From start to finish this book took me about a year. My co-author provided a lot of links to the research papers I based my arguments on, which saved me a huge amount of time, but then I had to trawl through them all in detail. That was tough!



What was the hardest part about the writing process? 
The hardest part was definitely turning academic studies into accessible layman’s vocabulary. The fun bit was adding my own ideas and weaving it all together.

What advice would you give aspiring writers? 
Don’t be afraid of a blank page. Scribble rubbish until all the rubbish has gone and you find yourself producing half-decent stuff. You can always edit, or even re-write, but you can’t edit a blank page.






For you personally, what is the best thing about being a writer?
What’s not to like about being a writer? (Apart from the pay!) I love that I can work when I choose, rather than having to catch a train. I love being able to take a stroll down the road if my brain feels like it’s going to explode. But perhaps most of all, I love having a legitimate reason for pouring out my ideas and playing with them.  That’s the real fun part.



What did you learn doing the KDP Select?
As this is my first published book I had no experience of using marketing through any other route so I
have nothing with which to compare it. However, since KDP does still allow you to share excerpts of the book (up to 10%) for promotional purposes I really haven’t found it a problem.


What do you think was the most helpful thing you did during the giveaway?
I learnt just how crucial online marketing is for authors and that the numbers of channels open to us for self-promotion are vast.  However, the downside is that they’re not all free!



How did you schedule your writing?
I treated writing like a full-time job – nine to five, come hell or high water.  The discipline of that approach kept me focused, although I railed against it at times. 

It wasn’t easy as two boys, hubby, dog and I were all squashed into a caravan where one space was shared by all (!), but I’d drawn out my book plan on pieces of A4 taped together, and I just ploughed through each chapter methodically until it was done.

What was the hardest part of the publishing process?
I’ve published both on Kindle and through Create Space, and both processes were fairly straightforward, except that, having gone to all the trouble of getting a professional to design the file for Create Space, they still had to tweak it when we tried to upload it for the first time.

What’s been your experience so far of the marketing process for a non-fiction book?
I’ve realized that there are fewer websites available for marketing purposes to writers of non-fiction books. It’s also harder to get book reviews because the vast majority of reviewers I have come across are biased towards fiction.  I was quite taken aback by this because, even as a reader, I much prefer non-fiction books to fiction.


What can readers expect in the future?

Well, I've enjoyed the whole process so much that readers can definitely expect more. My next project is to write a course on improving communication between parents and kids, looking at body language - how to interpret your kids' and how to make your own accessible and non-threatening so that misunderstandings and arguments become a thing of the past. Watch this space!





Thanks for joining us today.  I hope you'll check out Jackie Charley's book.  Parents these days need all the help they can get. If you want to learn more check out her website, or  twitter,  facebook




 
Samantha Fury is the author of the Popular Street Justice Series
she's written many articles on book covers, for Indie Authors.  
She operates several Indie Groups. Editing Services, Cover Artist, 
Helpful Indie Facebook Groups, and a wonderful Forum 
just for Indie Authors.