Meet Fantasy Writer Kevin Hopson

Carpinello's Writing Pages is excited to welcome Fantasy author Kevin Hobson. I first met Kevin through MuseItUp Publishing which acquired my second Arthurian Legend book, The King's Ransom, Young Knights of the Round Table back in 2011. Today he's introducing us to his first cross-over fantasy novel.

I've taken a bit of a hiatus because of family and work. Good to be back here.

Here's a bit about Kevin:

Prior to hitting the fiction scene in 2009, I was a freelance writer for several years, covering everything from finance to sports. My debut work, World of Ash, was released by MuseItUp Publishing in the fall of 2010. Since then, I have released over a dozen books through MuseItUp, and I have also been published in various magazines and anthology books. My writing covers many genres, including dark fiction and horror, science fiction and fantasy, and crime fiction.

What types of books do you like to read?

I rarely read non-fiction, but I’ll read just about anything when it comes to fiction.

When you are not writing, what do you like to do?

I like to watch movies and play card games, but I enjoy reading the most.

Tell us about Brinewood and how the story came to be.

Brinewood is for the upper edges of YA readers. It is a cross-over fantasy, which means it takes characters from two separate series of mine. More specifically, my Jacob Schmidt (mystery) and Vargrom (fantasy) series. It’s a unique combination, but it seems to work. I had the idea running through my head for a while, and I couldn’t decide which genre to write at the time, so I decided to combine the two.

Here's a peek at Brinewood:

When a wizard named Fremonar accidentally opens a portal to his world, private investigator Jacob Schmidt is thrust into it. Though the gateway closes before Jacob can return to Earth, Fremonar assures Jacob that he can send him back, but it will take a few days. Fremonar needs to regain full strength before attempting such a feat.

In the meantime, Fremonar has a problem. His brother Ikalis recently passed, and the wizard has a suspicion that he was murdered. As he learns more about Jacob, Fremonar asks for the stranger’s help. Jacob ultimately accepts the wizard’s proposition, but he hasn’t a clue what awaits him. All he knows is that two dwarfs will be accompanying him on his journey to Brinewood, and maybe even a pesky gnome when all is said and done. Unfortunately for Jacob, his allies might end up doing him more harm than good.


Have you written other books? If so, tell us a bit about them.

Yes. I’ve written several books, but most of them are related to the two ongoing series I already mentioned. My Jacob Schmidt series revolves around a former Atlanta police officer turned private investigator. My Vargrom series is a spin-off from my young adult fantasy novella, The Fire King. It deals with a dwarf named Modrad, who hails from a mountain city called Vargrom.

What’s next for your writing? Are you working on a new story?

I’m currently working on a drama/romance novel. I’m also writing various short stories for several themed anthologies.

What advice do you have for other authors?

Try to read and write each day. Reading inspires me to write, and vice-versa. Not only does it keep me engaged, it keeps me sharp, too.

Anything else you want readers to know?

Though I’ve taken a break from them recently, I also like to make book trailers. There’s a YouTube link on my website where people can view all of my trailers.

Where can readers find you and your books?

My website and Amazon page are probably the best places to learn more about me and my books.

Website: www.kmhopson.com
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Kevin-Hopson/e/B006XVDMT6

Family Secret Book Blast & Review

Mother Daughter Book Reviews is pleased to be coordinating a Book Blast for the newly released young adult thriller "Family Secret" by Kay LaLone.

About the Book

Title: Family Secret | Author: Kay LaLone | Publication Date: September 29, 2015 | Publisher: MuseItUp Publishing | Pages: 229 | Recommended Ages: 12+


Summary:

On the road to solving his mother’s murder, sixteen-year-old Thomas Patrick Henry discovers a secret his father has kept from him for years. Tom thought Dad’s secret put him in danger. Mom’s secret is far worse. Magic. Witches. Ancient Book of Spells. Magical Amulet. Ghosts. Demons. Tom never thought these things existed until he is face to face with them. There is nothing else to do but destroy the demons before someone else Tom love dies. He already lost his mom and a close friend because this secret was kept from him. No one else will die. No one else will be possessed. Tom faces his demons. A mother’s love gives Tom the strength to slay his demons.

Amazon  *  Barnes & Noble  *  MuseItUp

 

The Early Buzz About the Book

"Once I opened this book, I couldn’t put it down until I came to the very satisfying ending. Family Secret is definitely a book I’ll read again and again.  I highly recommend Family Secret for teens who love the paranormal, especially boys looking for a good adventure." ~ Kathleen S., Amazon

"The world building was really well done and very immersive. The plot kept me guessing and was wrapped up very well." ~ Melissa, Goodreads

 

About the Author: Kay LaLone

I’m Kay LaLone, author of Ghostly Clues, my first MG novel. Family Secret is my first YA novel. Both published by MuseItUp. I live in Michigan with my husband and teenage son (two older sons and a daughter-in-law and my first grandbaby live nearby) and two dogs. I love to get up every morning and write about ghosts, the paranormal, and things that go bump in the night. I write PB, MG and YA novels. No matter the books I write, I want my readers to feel like they have met a new friend. I’m an avid reader of just about any type of book (mystery, paranormal, and ghost stories are my favorites). I do reviews and post them on my website and blog. I love to collect old books, antiques, and collectibles. You can find many of my antiques and collectibles selling on ebay and at fleamarkets.

MuseItUp  *  Blog  *  Website

Facebook  *  Goodreads  *  Twitter

My Review of Family Secret:

What I Liked:

I loved the paranormal aspects of Family Secret. The depictions of the demons were extremely well done. The story is filled with twists and turns and some unexpected elements that added to the thrill. The secrets of the family are woven well into the story. The scope of those secrets surprised me as well as other characters in the story. Tom's longing for his mother comes across as genuine, and young readers will be able to relate to that as well as to the complete character of Tom. This is a clean read that ages 12 and up will enjoy. I enjoyed reading this. I give it 

✮✮✮✮

What I Didn't Like: 

I thought the story started off slow. It wasn't until chapter seven that I found myself caught up in the action. Tom's continual protestations of being called a kid could have happened less. I think there were other aspects of his character—like his genuine love of his mother and his puzzlement and anger of his father—that served better as descriptions of him. As always, the English teacher in me cringes at the misuse of the English language, particularly when the wrong words are used and problems in sentence structure.

** Book Blast Giveaway **

Prize: One winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card or $25 PayPal cash prize, winner's choice

Giveaway ends: December 15, 11:59 pm, 2015

Open to: Internationally

How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below.

Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by Kay LaLone and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send an email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Meet YA Fantasy Author Eric Price

Carpinello's Writing Pages welcomes author Eric Price. He writes the Saga of the Wizards fantasy series as well as science fiction and children's stories. Eric is also a fellow Muse It Up author.

First, a bit about Eric:

Eric Price lives with his wife and two sons in northwest Iowa. He began publishing in 2008 when he started writing a quarterly column for a local newspaper. Later that same year he published his first work of fiction, a spooky children’s story called Ghost Bed and Ghoul Breakfast. Since then, he has written stories for children, young adults, and adults. Three of his science fiction stories have won honorable mention from the CrossTime Annual Science Fiction Contest. His first YA fantasy novel, Unveiling the Wizards’ Shroud, received the Children’s Literary Classics Seal of Approval and the Literary Classics Award for Best First Novel. His second novel, The Squire and the Slave Master, scheduled for a 2015 release, continues the Saga of the Wizards.

Why did you pick to write books for Young Adults?

I write YA right now because that’s where the stories I have fit best. I’ve also written a middle grade book, but I haven’t submitted it to publishers yet. Once I finish the Saga of the Wizards, I hope to try my hand at some adult novels too.

What types of books do you like to read?

Fantasy, Sci-Fi, Action/Adventure, Mystery, Classics, Horror…really, I’m easy to please, it depends on what mood I’m in.

When you are not writing, what do you like to do?

We travel a lot. I also work on my wife’s family’s farm.

Tell us about The Squire and the Slave Master and how the story came to be.

The Squire and the Slave Master has roots all the way back to the rewriting of Unveiling the Wizards’ Shroud. I wrote Unveiling the Wizards’ Shroud long before I ever sent it to a publisher. When I finally decided it had aged on my hard drive long enough (and at my wife’s persuasion), I started submitting it to publishers. I got a few form rejections before Muse It Up Publishing rejected it but with conditions that, if I would meet them, they’d take another look.

In the time it sat on my computer, I had thought of a second story taking place in the same world. I decided to introduce the main character of this second book in Unveiling the Wizards’ Shroud. So I went about rewriting it with Muse It Up’s suggestions, while introducing this new character at the beginning of the story and probably bringing her back at the end.

Well, it didn’t work exactly as I had intended. Yara insisted on sticking around for the bulk of Unveiling the Wizards’ Shroud, and I liked her character so much I didn’t fight it. Now she goes from being a secondary character to the main character in her own book…and you can bet she’ll find a way into book three.

Here's a peek at The Squire and the Slave Master:

Unveiling the Wizards’ Shroud chronicled Yara, Owen, and Cedric’s quest to revive King Kendrick from a dark, magical spell. After the adventure to save King Kendrick, for Yara, everyday life has grown monotonous. The dull work of learning her father’s blacksmithing trade, and the pressure from her parents to decide what she plans on doing with her life, has her nerves so stressed she snaps at her father’s slightest teasing.

Lucky for her, a surprise messenger from the castle brings the king’s request for her to join a collaborative mission between the Central and Western Domains of Wittatun to stop a recently discovered slave operation in a land to the west. King Kendrick and Owen want her to accompany the mission as a secret weapon disguised as a squire.

She has to keep secret not only her magical abilities from any possible traitors, but also her gender. The people of the Western Domain have a superstition prohibiting girls from sailing. But a chill wind carries the distinct odor of sabotage. Can one girl survive to destroy an evil rooted much deeper than mere slavery?

Have you written other books? If so, tell us a bit about them.

I mentioned the MG book above. I wrote it at my oldest son’s request. When he put it together that I write books, he asked if I’d write a book about his favorite baseball player, Yadier Molina. I told him I wouldn’t because I had no idea where to begin at getting rights to do such a thing, but instead I offered to write him a book about a kid whose favorite player is Yadier Molina. He agreed to my compromise. I have to go through it again before I can start trying to find a publisher. Something’s not quite right yet, but I haven’t figured out what.


What’s next for your writing? Are you working on a new story?

I’m well into the third and final book from the Saga of the Wizards titled A Wizard Reborn. Owen and Yara will have to put all their skills to use to stop—well, let’s allow people to read The Squire and the Slave Master before we tell them too much about A Wizard Reborn.


What advice do you have for other authors?

My “go-to” advice recently has been aimed at aspiring authors: Write your own story. Don’t try to write the next Harry Potter, or Divergent, or whatever. These stories have already been written. If you’re going to put in the effort to write, make it something original.

Anything else you want readers to know?

For the month of September, I’ve had an interesting project running on my website/blog. I’ve been working with an American Literature high school class in Nantes, France. For one of their projects, they read the first two chapters of Unveiling the Wizards’ Shroud before breaking into groups and writing what they though should come next. I posted their versions, one each day, from September 2-17. It’s too late to vote for your favorites, but the project is still worth reading. Here’s a link to the introduction post: http://tinyurl.com/oou3tu5.

Where can readers find you and your books?

The best place to see what I’m doing:
My Website

If you like social media, you can also find me here:
Twitter
Facebook
I have accounts on some other social sites too, but I don’t use them much.

My books are available wherever eBooks are sold:

 Amazon
 Muse It Up
 Barnes and Noble
 Smashwords
 iTunes

Meet Texas YA Author Susan Royal

Carpinello's Writing Pages welcomes a Texas daughter, Susan Royal. Susan is a fellow MuseItUp author.

First, a bit about Susan:

Born in west Texas and raised in south Texas, Susan makes her home in a 100-year-old farmhouse in a small east Texas town that comes complete with a ghost who has been known to harmonize with her son when he plays guitar. 
 
She is married and the mother of six (she counts her children’s spouses as her own) and five grandchildren who are all unique and very special. Her family is rich with characters, both past and present. Her grandmother shared stories of living on a farm in Oklahoma Territory with three sisters and three brothers and working as a telephone operator in the early 20th century.  She heard about growing up in San Antonio in the depression from her father, and experienced being a teenager during WWII through her mother’s eyes.

Why do you pick to write books for YA?

There are several reasons. For one thing, I love reading YA, especially when an author makes me remember what it’s like to be that age. Maggie Stiefvater, Ally Condie, Marie Lu and fellow Muse author Barbara Ehrentreu come to mind. YA stories are all about the characters finding strengths they didn’t know they had. That happens in any good book, but because of their youth, it seems they’re more willing to take a step into the unknown.  The sex is there, but it’s subtle, and I like subtle.

What type of books do you like to read?

I like to escape into another world for adventures I never dreamed of having. I love reading time travel, young adult, post-apocalyptic, paranormal and urban fantasy…all with a touch of romance.

When you are not writing, what do you like to do?

When I’m not writing, I’m thinking about it. I’m working out plots in my head, thinking of scenarios and/or names while I’m out antiquing with my daughter or daughters-in-law, finding things to repurpose, decorating and redecorating my 100 year old house, reading (I read in the tub every day), and sewing. I love going to the movies with my husband, photography and spending time with my 5 grandchildren. 

Tell us about Not Long Ago and how the story came to be. 

I had the opening scene of Not Long Ago written for at least six months before I went any further. It could have gone in a thousand different directions, but the romantic in me knew I had to explore the connection between the man and the woman who saw each other by accident through the coffee shop window. He’s a complete stranger, but she feels like she knows him, knows things about him. As if things between them aren’t complicated enough, I decided to make it a time travel. When my daughter read it, she told me the story wasn’t finished. Turns out, she was right. From Now On takes the story a step further. When Griffin disappears on mysterious Manx Island, Erin will do whatever it takes to find him. Along the way she deals with little people, ghosts and ley lines. My little time travel story has become a series called It’s About Time.

I’ve chosen the following passage to share because I wanted everyone to see Not Long Ago is not just about time travel, nor is it just a love story between two very different people. I tried to make it an adventure that will take the reader to another time and allow them to experience life there as seen through the main character’s eyes. This part was an especially emotional scene for me to write. I attempted to portray some of the emotions each of us experience when we’re faced with losing someone we care about, whether it be father, mentor or friend.

Here's a peek at Not Long Ago:

--> Late the next day, everyone gathered on the banks of the river under a clear sky. On a hill above us, archers waited. Beside them men-at-arms from the castle stood at attention. Clustered below were the castle servants and townspeople. Lady Isobeil, Lady Gwyneth and Kat positioned themselves on opposite sides of Lord John, as far away from each other as possible. He stood at one end of a long, shallow wooden boat filled with brush. Sir Maldwyn’s body had been wrapped in linen and placed inside, his belongings next to him. Water lapped against the boat, a strangely calming sound.

The pain on Sir Griffin’s face was almost more than I could bear. He clenched his jaw and gripped the hilt of his sword until I thought it would break. Faces stoic, the other knights huddled together with their squires. No doubt each of them remembered Sir Maldwyn in his own way. After all, he’d been in service at the castle long enough to train most of the knights when they were still squires. I thought of my parent’s death and the emptiness I felt knowing I’d never see them again. People everywhere stared at the ground, trying to hold back tears.

All except for Deroc. I can think of nothing more poignant than the sight of him standing over his father’s body while tears ran down his face. Over and over, the boy repeated the same words. “I am sorry Father, I am so sorry.” The overbearing bully who confronted me in the paddock had vanished. All that remained was a pitiful little boy, one who mourned a relationship with his father he’d never had, and now, one he would never experience.

Sir Maldwyn’s body lay on the funeral pyre, in the custom of the Vikings, while Father Alford conducted the service in Latin in a calm and soothing monotone, appearing completely undisturbed by all the pagan customs surrounding him. When he said his last amen, Lord John nodded at Sir Griffin. He began to ease the boat into the water. When it resisted, first Sir Edevane and then the other knights joined him. Together, they gave one last push, and the boat floated free.

Sir Sion remained on the bank, alone in his guilt. He didn’t join the rest, likely because he knew they held him responsible for Sir Maldwyn’s death. Sir Sion’s decision made in haste and in anger had ended someone’s life. No wonder he couldn’t bear to meet anyone’s eyes.

Have you written any other books?  If so, tell us a bit about them.

I’ve written a YA fantasy, In My Own Shadow. Talk about the worst day ever! Lara lets her friend Carrie talk her into a blind date, only it turns out the handsome stranger waiting for Lara after work isn’t Carrie’s cousin after all. And, when they’re chased through a portal to another world, Lara realizes Rhys really is out of this world.

I have a fantasy coming out in the fall, titled Xander’s Tangled Web. After a late night visit to Battington’s marketplace, Princess Mena has vanished without a trace. Merchants are frantic because King Leander has called for a curfew and postponed the spring festival. Certain his former constable is the man for the job, the mayor hires Xander to investigate, hoping he can solve the mystery in a hurry so things can go back to normal. But Xander’s not so sure that’s possible because there’s romance involved, and he knows when that happens, folks who are normally very sensible seem to lose all reason. In addition to sorting out truths, half-truths and outright lies, he must deal with gypsies, love potions and an illegal moonshine operation before he gets to the bottom of things.

What’s next for your writing?  Are you working on a new story?

Currently I’m working on book 3 in my series. Erin and Griffin’s story is still not complete. I told the story of how they met and fell in love. Now we’ll find out how two people from different worlds learn to live together.

What advice do you have for authors?

Join a critique group. Write your story. Research. Learn. Edit. Submit your story. Last, but not least, never ever give up.


Anything else you want readers to know?

I’d love to hear from any of you. Email me at ssn_royal@hotmail.com.

Where can readers find you and your books?

Susan:

http://susanroyal.moonfruit.com 
http://susanroyal.wordpress.com 

Her Books:

In My Own Shadow (fantasy, adventure, romance)
Not Long Ago (time travel, adventure, romance)

Not Long Ago book trailer

All books available at MuseItUp, Amazon, B&N, Goodreads


Sneak Peek: Guinevere Book II and the Kid Lit Blog Hop 55.

This week's post is a celebration of sorts. Last month I finished the first draft—read that as a very rough first draft—of Guinevere: At the Dawn of Legend—Cedwyn's Story. A lot of work still needs to be done before the manuscript makes its way to the first of many editor visits. Bear this in mind as you read the first pages of this story. If you have read Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend, then you may be a bit surprised at this reading. So, here goes nothing. I hope you enjoy.

Chapter 1 - State of Affairs

A strong north wind rushed down the valley, scattering leaves already yellowed and blown down earlier by another north wind. Already the smell of winter filled the air, crisp and sharp with the promise of early snow instead of the mild fall usually seen.

It also carried another winter on its breath. A light dusting of ash lay upon the castle parapets and floated down on the roofs turning them a grayish-white. These days ashes covered every level surface and every nook, inside and outside. On days like today when the wind raced through, people tried to breathe shallow to avoid inhaling the acrid smoke carried from the winter up north.

Throughout the spring and summer, conflict ripped through the northern country bringing death to many and sending the ashes of whole villages, burnt to the ground instead of surrendering, south into the lands loyal to the one king. In response, legions of men rode north, knights of those shires pledged to and supporting one land, one king. The land being Britain; the king being Arthur Pendragon.

A slender young woman, chin resting on her hands, gazed north, almost oblivious to the gusts whipping the brown hair escaping from the cowl of her dark green cloak. Days seemed to have passed since the sun last smiled on her land. Then a nasty gale raised up and whipped the hood off her head, revealing underneath the innocent but lined face of a young princess, just past fifteen years. A princess who should have been a queen.

A sigh escaped her blood-spotted lips, cracked and sore from a week of standing on this parapet while the wind destroyed the summer in her land. She waited each day for movement through the trees that would signal the coming home of the knights from the north. No sign of her father or King Arthur.

Months overdue was her marriage. Another change because of the fighting, the refusal of the northern clans to give up their freedom for a different freedom under Arthur. Two months ago, her father had left with a contingent of knights to bolster Arthur’s troops. Two months and no word, just ashes and smoke.

And now,

Welcome to the 55th Kid Lit Blog Hop where we continue to develop a dynamic and engaged community of children's books bloggers, authors, publishers, and publicists.

On this Hop, Carpinello's Writing Pages interviews

MG/YA author Sara Stinson

and

fellow MuseItUp YA author Susan Royal.

You are always more than welcome to join us by popping in a post and hopping around to meet some of your fellow Kid Lit bloggers and authors! This week, we are excited to be including a Goodreads Linky Party to be held in conjunction with the Kid Lit Blog Hop. These linky parties are designed to give you the opportunity to connect with and grow your network of fellow kid lit bloggers, authors, and parents through your various social media platforms. We are pleased to welcome as co-host this week Tiffiny from the blog Spark and Pook. Welcome and bienvenue to Tiffiny.  

Hostesses:

Mother Daughter Book Reviews

Julie Grasso, Author/ Blogger

Cheryl Carpinello, Author / Blogger

Stacking Books

BeachBoundBooks

Pragmatic Mom

Music, Teaching and Parenting

Reading Authors

The Logonauts

A Book Long Enough

Co-Hostess:

Spark and Pook

Happy Hopping everyone and enjoy the Hop!

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Kid Lit Blog Hop & Linky Party Rules *Please Read*

1. LINKY PARTY: Add the link to your Goodreads profile page in the Goodreads Linky Party list below. Be sure to visit at least the two links directly before yours as well as your hosts' Goodreads pages. Be sure to friend or follow some folks with similar interests and like any reviews that catches your eye.
2. KID LIT BLOG HOP: Link up any Kid Lit related post in the Kid Lit Blog Hop. This can be a link to a children’s book review, a discussion about children’s literature/literacy, or a post on a recently-read children’s book or one that you love from your childhood.

* Don't link directly to your blog, it must be a specific post.*

* For Authors, we prefer you to link to your blog if you have one. Please link unique posts each time ~ no repeats please. *

* Make sure you include an image relevant to the POST (e.g., book cover), not your blog button or photo of yourself.*

* Feel free to link more than one post.*

3. KID LIT BLOG HOP: Please visit AT LEAST the TWO LINKS from the Kid Lit Blog Hop directly ahead of your own and leave them some love in the form of a comment. We are trying to build a community of bloggers, readers, parents, authors, and others who are as passionate about children’s literature as we are so please CONNECT and follow any or all of the blogs that interest you! 4. If you like, grab the button above and put it somewhere on your blog, preferably the post you're linking up. If you'd prefer, you can just add a text link back to this Hop so that others can find it and check out all these great book links! 5. It would really help us get the word out about the Kid Lit Blog Hop if you would be so kind as to tweet, share, and spread the word about the Hop!

Interested in co-hosting the Kid Lit Blog Hop/Linky Party? If you've joined us before, you are welcome to join us again! Please email renee @ motherdaughterbookreviews (dot) com and put Co-Hosting Blog Hop in the subject line.

Happy Hopping!

 

GOODREADS LINKY PARTY

(Please do not link a blog post here - see below for the Kid Lit Blog Hop)

KID LIT BLOG HOP

Meet MG/YA Christian Author Christina Weigand

Carpinello's Writing Pages welcomes MG/YA Christina Weigand. She is a fellow MuseItUp Publishing author and writes the Palace of the Twelve Pillars series.

First, a bit about Christina:

Christina Weigand’s a writer, wife, and mother of three grown children and a teenage daughter. She is also Nana to three granddaughters. She lives with her husband and youngest daughter in Pennsylvania. Currently, she’s working on fantasy novels and inspirational writing. Through her writing, she strives to share the Word of God and help people to realize the love and mercy He has for everyone.

When she’s not writing, she’s lectors at her Church and volunteers to help young people develop a love for reading and writing. Jesus fills her home with love as she shares Him through her writing.

Why did you pick to write books for MG/YA?

I actually write both MG and YA. It’s just that my YA got written and published first. Through my writing I want to provide to middle-grade and YA readers a balanced reading palette. While they may be reading vampire books and the like, I also want them to see God’s side and to have a fuller, more well-balanced vision of what is out there, so they can make informed choices in their lives. After all they are the future.

What types of books do you like to read?

I read a lot of YA Fantasy, but I like most genres except erotica. Since I’m writing YA, MG and now I’m trying my hand at beginning chapter books for young readers, I have been reading in those categories. I also read books for adults. I enjoy inspirational fiction. Like I said, I can read just about anything.

When you are not writing, what do you like to do?

Read, travel, spend time attending my teen daughter’s activities. I like to do crafts although I haven’t done much as of late. Oh and I like to hug my three beautiful granddaughters whenever I get the chance.

Tell us about Sanctuary of Nine Dragons: Book Three and how the story came to be.

The obvious answer is that I had to finish the trilogy Palace of the Twelve Pillars. Beyond that, when I wrote what was supposed to be a stand-alone book entitled Aaron’s Revenge, I realized that there was a whole other story that needed and wanted to be told. Joachim and Brandan, Aaron’s father and uncle, made their presence known and hounded me until I told their story. And Aaron/Airyn got relegated to the third book, Sanctuary of Nine Dragons. I guess I really wanted to know what people and actions brought Aaron to the place he was in Aaron’s Revenge.

In Sanctuary of Nine Dragons, Joachim banishes Brandan to prison island of Hyogo. His infant son, Prince Airyn disappears from his cradle. A chain of events is set in motion that will pit brother against brother, friend against friend, parents against children as Brandan and Joachim struggle for control of their sanity and their very lives.

With Brandan declared dead and his son missing, Joachim sinks into despair and anger, where those close to him fear he may never return. Is Brandan really dead and if he is, who is manipulating the Mantion and enemies of Crato?

Can Maeve save her country and her husband from the tentacles of evil pervading the land?

Here's a peek at Sanctuary of Nine Dragons:

Joachim cringed as he thought about what he had to do. The council had decided. He didn’t agree completely, but in the end, Joachim knew it was the only way; something had to be done. Maybe Brandan would give him a reason not to send him away.

King Brandan stomped into the room. “Why, Brother, have you no throne prepared for your poor, missing brother? I’m hurt. I expected more from you and my sister-in-law. Maeve, dear, couldn’t you have helped him prepare better?” He stepped toward her, quickly grabbed her hand, and kissed it.

Joachim lunged at him, pushing him from the dais. Brandan staggered then regained his balance and gazed at his brother. “Why such violence, especially when I am so recently injured?”

Stepping off the dais, Joachim stood eye-to-eye with his brother. “Enough! You’re no more hurt than I am. And you have no business touching my wife, or sitting on Crato’s throne.”

Brandan laughed, pushed him aside, and stepped up to claim his throne. Joachim grabbed his twin's shoulder, spun him around, and punched him in the mouth.

Rubbing where Joa’s fist had landed, Brandan smirked. “Well, my brother has finally developed some stones.” He raised his other hand to hit Joachim.

Matthias stepped forward, sword in hand and grabbed his arm before he could hit Crato's king. He pulled the king’s brother away, so Joachim could reclaim his throne.

Jerking himself free, Brandan straightened his tunic. “This has been fun; but as you seem to be in no mood to visit, I shall take my leave. Come to me when you’re in a better frame of mind.”

“Stop! You are going nowhere until I say you can.”

Brandan stopped and looked at his brother. “What did you say to me? Is that how you talk to a fellow king and brother?”

“Yes, it is. As of this morning, you are no longer a king, and I’m not sure I should even call you brother.”

“Why dearest brother, whatever do you mean?” Brandan asked.

“Ever since we were boys, you have done everything you could to make trouble. I was always willing to forgive you and hoped you would change your evil ways. But no more! You have pushed me—pushed this country—too far this time,” Joa thundered at him.

Have you written other books? If so, tell us a bit about them.

Aaron’s Revenge is a story about a boy who thinks he is the son of a farm boy, and after being kidnapped by his unknown Uncle, Brandan comes to discover that he is a prince and wizard. I’d like to mention here that the total of Aaron’s Revenge is told in Sanctuary of Nine Dragons. I kind of look on Aaron’s Revenge as an excerpt from Sanctuary even though it was written first. The other two books in the trilogy, Palace of the Twelve Pillars: Book One and Palace of the Three Crosses: Book Two, tell the beginning of Joachim and Brandan’s story.

I also wrote a Bible study Women of the Bible: A Study. I chose 12 women from the Old and New Testament and explored their lives and what they can teach the 21st century woman.

What’s next for your writing? Are you working on a new story?

I have several projects in the works. My big one, my opus you could say, is another YA Christian Fantasy in which my dragons have come to Earth at the time of Christ’s ministry. In partnership with humans, they protect God’s people and spread the word of God while fighting the evils that we all face.

I recently started a Middle Grade novel that I am co-writing with my oldest granddaughter. It’s a fantasy involving princes, princesses, and all sorts of magical creatures. Two teen girls and their dragons travel into this fantasy world to lift a curse and save the world from an evil witch/queen. But like any good story, there are some interesting twists that keep the teens  on their toes.

I am also co-writing a beginning chapter book for younger readers with my daughter and granddaughter. This is another fantasy where two girls are drawn into a fantasy land where they have to learn to rely on each other and work together to save their dragons from a giant.

What advice do you have for other authors?

If writing is your passion, don’t let someone else convince you not to do it. Be true to yourself and what you love. Of course, the obvious, Read, Read and Read some more. Most of all Butt in Chair; Hands on Keyboard (or holding a pen/pencil). Just don’t ever give up.

Where can readers find you and your books?

MuseItUp Publishing Bookstore
Barnes & Noble Author Page
Amazon Author Page
Facebook Author Page
Wattpad Page
Twitter

Meet MG Author Heather Brainerd

Carpinello's Writing Pages welcomes Heather Brainerd, author of MG and YA stories. Heather is a fellow MuseItUp author.

First, a bit about Heather:

Heather Fraser Brainerd is a renaissance woman. After earning a degree in Anthropology, she embarked on an incongruous career as a workers' compensation insurance adjuster. She rapidly climbed the claims-handling ladder before surprising her colleagues by leaving the high-powered world of lumbar strains and carpal tunnel syndrome to run a child care center. Thousands of dirty diapers and gallons of strained peas later, she decided that maybe the insurance industry wasn't quite as bad as she remembered. Unfortunately, it was. Then, a few years later, she was swept off her feet by the most wonderful man in the world. Now a stay-home mom to three amazing boys, she is able, at long last, to focus on her writing. Heather lives in New York with her family and their crazy pug/terrier.


Why did you pick to write books for MG and YA?

When I started writing my first book, I happened to be reading a lot of YA paranormal and YA fantasy. I really loved both genres and wanted to try my hand at something along those lines. Later, when my kids started reaching the middle grade years, I co-wrote my first MG book with my brother, David Fraser. He also has kids in that age range, and we wanted to write something that they would enjoy.

What types of books do you like to read?

I’m most likely to pick up a mystery, fantasy, or sweet romance. However, I’ll give just about anything a try.


When you are not writing, what do you like to do?

I LOVE Disney World and am constantly concocting some sort of excuse to try to get myself there. To tide me over between trips, I have a Disney blog.

Tell us about Shadows of New York and how the story came to be.

This book is MG paranormal, but more importantly, it’s a story about friendship, acceptance, and doing what is right. That makes the book sound kind of preachy. It’s not, though. There’s a lot of humor in it. As for how it came about… well, I don’t want to give away any spoilers, but let’s just say I had a dream that set me on the path to this novel.

Here a peek at Shadows of New York:

What do you do when your view of the world gets turned on its head? Eleven-year-old Josh Cooper is surprised when his new nanny ends up being a dude, but that pales in comparison to how he feels when he learns the nanny, Aiden, is also a werewolf. Aiden teaches Josh about the Imaginary World, even introducing him to his friends Larry Fancypants (a suave-yet-goofy vampire) and Steve Lickerman (a tall-yet-meek leprechaun). This fascinating world seems harmless, until Josh learns of the shadowy wraith that’s stalking New York, attacking creatures and stealing their powers. As werewolves are ideally suited for fighting wraiths, Aiden is called upon to help capture the elusive Mr. Midnight, unintentionally drawing Josh even deeper into the strange and mysterious.


Have you written other books? If so, tell us a bit about them.

My YA paranormal romance, Dream Shade, is the story of a teenaged girl who is being haunted. She has to figure out how to help the spirits in order to put them back to rest. Also, she’s crushing on the cutest guy in school, who actually seems to notice her. My José Picada, PI series, co-written with my brother Dave, is a paranormal mystery series with a somewhat slapdash female lead character, Josie Cates. She’s really fun to write!


What’s next for your writing? Are you working on a new story?

Dave and I are working on the third and fourth installments of the José Picada, PI series. Big things are coming Josie’s way! After that, we’re planning a sequel for Shadows of New York.

What advice do you have for other authors?

Write what you know, what you love, and what intrigues you.

Where can readers find you and your books?

My links:

Blog
Facebook author page
Twitter

My books:

MuseItUp Publishing
Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Kobo

Meet YA Fantasy Author Christopher Mannino

Carpinello's Writing Pages welcomes fellow MuseItUp YA fantasy author Christopher Mannino and his first book School of Deaths.

First, a bit about Christopher:

Christopher Mannino’s life is best described as an unending creative outlet. He teaches high school theatre in Greenbelt, Maryland. In addition to his daily drama classes, he runs several after-school performance/production drama groups. He spends his summers writing and singing. Mannino holds a Master of Arts in Theatre Education from Catholic University and has studied mythology and literature both in America and at Oxford University. His work with young people helped inspire him to write young adult fantasy, although it was his love of reading that truly brought his writing to life.

Why did you pick to write books for YA?

I am a teacher, and have worked with teens and other kids most of my professional life. I spend more time with kids than I do with adults. It seemed a natural place to start my writing career.

What types of books do you like to read?

Nearly anything, though fantasy and historical fiction tend to be my favorites.

When you are not writing, what do you like to do?

Theatre is my other great passion. I love to work on shows, teach theatre, and perform. I also have a great passion for traveling, and travel helped inspire this novel.

Tell us about School of Deaths and how the story came to be.

The idea for School of Deaths emerged when I was finishing my graduate degree at Oxford University. I spent four months abroad, far from everyone I knew. Every week, I traveled somewhere I had never been before. I would climb castle ruins in Wales and visit cathedrals in England. One of my favorite trips was to Tintagel Castle in Cornwall. After misjudging the time it’d take to get there, I became stranded. The tourist office was closed, and I couldn’t find a hostel. I walked from pub to pub asking if I could sleep above their bar.

The next morning, having slept none, since I’d found a room over a noisy pub, I crept to Barras Nose before dawn. Barras Nose is a stone peninsula, or rocky outcropping jutting into the Celtic Sea, just north of Tintagel. Tintagel itself is a small island with castle ruins on its cliffs. Some believe it to be the birthplace of King Arthur. When I reached Barras Nose, the winds howled so fiercely that I had to crawl on all fours to keep from being blown into the ocean below. Then dawn broke. No other humans were in sight. I struggled to keep my balance, but watched the sun rise on the ruins of the ancient castle, listening to the thunder of waves pounding the fifty foot cliffs I clung to. Wind battered me with ferocity, and I imagined a character being buffeted by winds, completely alone. I envisioned  Suzie, alone in a world of men, buffeted by sexism.



Here's a peek at School of Deaths:

Thrust into a world of men, can a timid girl find bravery as the first female Death?

Thirteen-year-old Suzie Sarnio always believed the Grim Reaper was a fairy tale image of a skeleton with a scythe. Now, forced to enter the College of Deaths, she finds herself training to bring souls from the Living World to the Hereafter. The task is demanding enough, but as the only female in the all-male College, she quickly becomes a target. Attacked by both classmates and strangers, Suzie is alone in a world where even her teachers want her to fail.

Scythes hungry for souls, Deaths who subjugate a race of mysterious magicians, and echoes of an ancient war with Dragons.

As her year progresses, Suzie suspects her presence isn't an accident. She uncovers a plot to overthrow the World of Deaths. Now she must also discover the reason she's been brought there: the first female Death in a million years.


Have you written other books? If so, tell us a bit about them.

School of Deaths is my first published novel. The print book will be released this winter.

What’s next for your writing? Are you working on a new story?

I am currently working on a sequel for School of Deaths, told from three points of view, which expands greatly on the world introduced in the first novel. Sword of Death is scheduled for release in the spring of 2014.

What advice do you have for other authors?

Never give up.

Anything else you want readers to know?

It’s great to sometimes combine my two passions, theatre and writing. The book trailer for School of Deaths features students I’ve taught and was filmed by a former student.

Where can readers find you and your books?


Chris:

Website

Blog

Goodreads

Facebook

Twitter

School of Deaths:
 
Muse It Up 

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

Book Trailer

Young Knights of the Round Table Gold Award Winner

Received word tonight that Young Knights of the Round Table: The King's Ransom is the 2014 Gold Award Winner in Juvenile Fiction for Global eBooks!

Sincere thanks to all at Muse It Up Publishing include publisher Lea Schizas, editors Anita Nolan, Greta Gunselman, and cover artist Kaytalin Platt.

 

Three Friends   Three Quests   Three Mysterious Predications

In Medieval Wales, 11-year-old Prince Gavin, 13-year-old orphan Philip, and 15-year-old blacksmith apprentice Bryan are brought together in friendship by their mentor the Wild Man. When an advisor to Gavin’s dad King Wallace is murdered and the valuable jewell known as The King’s Ransom is stolen, the Wild Man is captured and proclaimed to be the culprit.

Gavin, Philip, and Bryan bravely vow to clear their friend by taking the Knight’s Oath and embarking on individual quests to save The Wild Man. In the end, each one faces their fears and even death in their determination not to fail, and one will disclose the biggest secret of all.

Also available in paperback with it's new cover.

MuseItUp Publishing 

AmazonUS

AmazonUK

B&N Nook

Smashwords

iBooks

Currently on tour with Mother Daughter Book Reviews and Orangeberry Book Tours.

Meet MG Author Madeleine McLaughlin

Carpinello's Writing Pages welcomes MG author Madeleine McLaughlin and her story Beggar Charlie. Madeleine is a fellow MuseItUp author.

First, a bit about Madeleine:

I grew up in White Rock, British Columbia until I was about nineteen, and then I moved to Vancouver for one year and a bit. Then I came out to Eastern Canada. I did all sorts of jobs at first, including visual arts. I've taken various correspondence courses and went to college in Travel and Tourism. I had begun writing in the nineties, that's when I wrote my first e-book, The Mountain City Bronzes. Beggar Charlie is a more 'modern' tale in a way because I began it around 2012. I am a published poet, flash fiction and short story author.

Why did you pick to write books for MG?

I wanted to tell an adventurous story, and I thought the ages of 10 to 15 to be best suited for this type of story. Now many adults have read Beggar Charlie and liked it, so that makes me happy too. I think this is an age where you can tell things which may be considered  'too scary' for younger kids, but you still have that willingness to believe from your readers. This age is open-minded about reading.

What types of books do you like to read?

I like history, historical fiction, and generalized fiction. I also read a lot about the Victorian age. They gave us the beginnings of science with Darwin and others who opened up a whole new 'rational' way of thinking.

When you are not writing, what do you like to do?

I watch television a lot, and I like to walk. I actually like to be outside and once considered becoming a shepherd.

Tell us about Beggar Charlie and how the story came to be.

Beggar Charlie was my own chance to tell a story, set in Victorian times, about that quintessential Victorian character, the orphan. Also, I was excited to write about China in that age, a country with a fascinating history.

Here's a peek at Beggar Charlie:

After his mother dies, Beggar Charlie finds himself alone, begging for bread. Life doesn't get any better when he is press-ganged. His only hope is the captain of the merchant ship who takes a liking to him.

When the ship docks in China, Charlie is sent ashore with Hickory Dick, a boy he mistrusts. A rebellion foments, and in horror, Charlie watches as the merchant ship sinks when some Chinese men set it on fire. Whatever will Beggar Charlie and Hickory Dick do?

Have you written other books? If so, tell us a bit about them.

I mentioned The Mountain City Bronzes, but that's really a short story. I have done some in the nineties that are languishing in my filing cabinet. I have a tragedy, in fact, two tragedies. I do intend at some time to transcribe them to computer and finish them.

What’s next for your writing? Are you working on a new story?

I'm working on a supernatural detective story. Right now I'm doing a lot of thinking about my characters to make them more real, more likable.

What advice do you have for other authors?

Never quit. That's true too for aspiring authors. Keep writing. Do what you love. If you practice writing enough, eventually you'll be good enough to publish. It's a great feeling when somebody else likes your story.

Anything else you want readers to know?

Having a happy life is possible whatever age you are, even if some of your life is a struggle. I'm happier now than I ever have been, and if you have struggles when young, you can move on. Maybe that sounds 'heavy' but I think it's important to not give up on yourself.

Where to find Madeleine's book:

MuseItUp Bookstore

Amazon

B&N

We Love Tween/YA Books Spring Event

MuseItUp Publishing's 

We Love Tween/YA Books 

event has begun. 

Please join us and discover some terrific authors and their books. The cyber yummies have already begun and they are delicious. We'll be giving away coupon codes for free books, plus some really amazing specials to accumulate for your tween/young adult's summer reading.

https://www.facebook.com/events/224006297795748/

 Lots of exciting eBooks from MuseItUp Young and MuseItUp Young Adult are on sale.   

Young Knights of the Round Table: The King's Ransom is joined by  

The Twelve Pillars Series by Chris Weigand,

                                       Elixir Bound by Katie Carroll,  

The Landfill by Kevin Hobson,

                                   Weaving Magic by Mindy Hardwick,

 and a host of other stories just waiting for you and your Tween/YA readers.

Meet MG Author J. C. Whyte

Carpinello's Writing Pages welcomes Middle Grade author J. C. Whyte. J. C. is a fellow MuseItUp author celebrating her first book Karmack.

J. C. tell us how you started writing.

When I was eleven, my 6th grade teacher gave the class an assignment to write a poem dealing with an American sport. I knew my classmates would probably choose a popular sport like baseball or football, so I decided to compose a poem about golf. To my surprise, the teacher found it comical and encouraged me to keep writing. So I did.

Then over summer break, students were told to choose 26 books from a reading list and write a book report on each. BLAH! I wanted to enjoy my summer, not spend it reading! Back then, I was a very slow reader and didn’t much enjoy the experience. Plus, kids didn’t have the fun books which are on the market today. But that wise teacher told my mother I could write 26 stories instead of reading them. That was absolute genius. Although I didn’t actually write 26 stories (perhaps six?), I submitted one which made my teacher laugh out loud in class. And that teacher gave me an “A” on my summer reading assignment. I’ll never forgot that wise and wonderful teacher who let me play to my strengths.

So I knew from age eleven that I wanted to be a professional writer. Yet when I reached college, I also understood that writing stories seldom paid the bills. So I got degrees in Journalism and Communications Management. Then for many years I channeled my creative energies into the field of Public Relations.    

Marriage, kids, and several more degrees and occupations later (including stints as a travel agent and paralegal), I entered law school – mostly for the challenge of writing creative arguments for the court. But while in law school, I became a columnist for the student newsletter, writing humorous pieces on the strange and quirky life of a law student. I was thrilled when one of these articles was chosen for publication in The National Jurist, a magazine distributed to law students throughout the US.

But after graduating and passing the Bar, I realized within a few years that creative writing was still what made my heart sing. So now, as a grandma, I’ve returned to writing for children. And with the publication of Karmack, I’ve come full circle, back to where my writing journey truly began.

Why did you pick to write books for Middle Grade?

Actually, I tried writing in the Young Adult genre first because that’s so popular these days; plus, I thought I had an interesting slant on teen suicide. But no one wanted that story. So while waiting for agent and publisher rejections to pour in, I wrote Karmack. That was pure joy from beginning to end. And when I sent the manuscript to Muse It Up Publishing, the editors accepted it right away. So here I am!

What types of books do you like to read?

Just as I’m a picky eater, I’m also a picky reader. I like getting a “taste” of a book by reading the first few pages; if I connect with the writing style, I’ll continue reading.

That said, I like a lot of today’s popular books like The Help and Water for Elephants, but also classics like East of Eden and The Once and Future King. And I’m always up for a griping true story, especially based in the last century like Laura Hillenbrand’s Seabiscuit and Unbroken. I also adore anything written by Ken Follett or John Steinbeck. I like some thrillers too, ala Michael Crichton.

When you are not writing, what do you like to do?

That’s easy: travel! (Remember, I used to be a travel agent.) My husband and I are now on our bucket list. Last May, we traveled to the Canadian Rockies on the Rocky Mountaineer, a luxury train experience from Vancouver to Calgary. It was a dream come true! Since the start of our marriage 40 years ago, we’ve visited most of the National Parks throughout North America yet still needed to check off Banff and Jasper in Canada.

Next on our list: South America’s Machu Picchu and the Galapagos Islands!

Tell us about Karmack and how the story came to be.

I got the idea for Karmack while I was not sleeping one night (getting old will do that to you – not sleeping, I mean). And the next day I just began writing. I had a hero in mind, someone I actually knew in elementary school. He was always getting into trouble although he had a good heart. My character Sully is based on him.

Here's a peek at Karmack:

Everyone knows Curtis "Sully" Sullenburg is the toughest kid at Higgins Elementary. For years, he and his gang have tormented students and teachers alike with their pranks. And for the most part, they’ve gotten away with it. But all that changes when a strange little creature appears on the scene. From that point on, pranks start coming back like boomerangs, smacking Sully's gang right in their fifth grade butts!

Sully is the only one who can see this creature, which he names Karmack. The little guy claims to be a nature spirit whose job is to balance all the bad karma the boys have amassed over the years. If Karmack fails, these boys will undoubtedly suffer "dreadful, awful doom." Just like that kid who shot at crows with his BB gun – one day he crashed his bike into a pigeon coop and emerged as the Abominable Snowman of bird poop! That kind of doom.

Sully soon realizes he must save not only himself, but also his gang from Karmack's doom, even though his friends have no idea why they keep getting boomeranged. Of course, calamity and hilarity follow. But in the end, Sully and the guys learn a valuable lesson about the consequences of being a bully, and what it takes to be a true leader.

Have you written other books? If so, tell us a bit about them.

Sorry, don’t wanna do that. The books I wrote before Karmack will stay in my computer where they belong because they stink.

What’s next for your writing? Are you working on a new story?

I recently finished a novel which was inspired by my husband. As a scientist, he’s pondered for years over dark matter, the invisible glue which astrophysicists say holds the universe together. Well, I drop a couple of characters into dark matter. Uh-huh. While they’re on a trans-Pacific cruise, two octogenarians become trapped in dark matter and they don’t know how to reconnect their spirits with their lifeless bodies. Talk about being in the twilight zone!

What advice do you have for other authors?

I think the most important thing is to make writing fun. You must enjoy what you’re doing to do it well. So take a subject you adore and write about it. Every day. Until you know it’s right. On days I don’t feel like writing, I read over the last few chapters and immediate I start to edit and rewrite; since I’m a bit of a perfectionist, that always gets me in the proper mood.

Anything else you want readers to know?

Yeah. Karmack may be a fictional story for kids, but the concept is based in reality. Anyone who’s been on planet Earth for any appreciable amount of time knows that what goes around, comes around. So watch out, everybody! (That includes you, Anthony Weiner and Paula Deen.)

Where can readers find you and your books?

The only social website I’m on is Goodreads.

My website which also has free teaching supplements for Karmack.

Readers can find Karmack at these online stores: 

Muse It Up Publishing

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Omnilit

Bookstrand