Welcome to Realm Explorers! In this weekly series, we visit a variety of unique worlds created by talented science fiction and fantasy authors. Enjoy your travels! And don’t forget to read to the bottom of the post to find out more about each author and see how to purchase the featured book.
Author’s name: Lia London
Title of book and/or series: The Gypsy Pearl Book 3: Tye
Brief summary of the story: This is part three in a science fiction trilogy wherein our heroine Caz Artemus is on a quest to “cycle” a Gypsy Pearl that is actually inside of her body. The result of her adventure will be, in theory, the freedom of a species of small humanoid creatures and her own eventual rise to supreme power in the Granbo System. Naturally, not everyone is in favor of a teen doing this, so she has assassins in hot pursuit. Despite some superhuman powers she has acquired recently, she suffers from a distinct handicap: adrenaline spikes lead to paralysis. That’s tough when her life is so action-packed!
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story: Tye is essentially an ocean planet. There are dozens of archipelagos scattered around the globe, but they are ultimately tiny land masses. Each island or island group represents a distinct colony whereon humans (originally from our own solar system) have made their homes. Marine life is abundant, and there are some indigenous bird species, too, but larger land mammals have mostly been imported from other planets (callabus, bovines and ovis – or, as we would call them, horses, cows and sheep).
If we were to visit Tye as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there? The most tourist-friendly places would be the atoll chains of Ikekane North and South. These are large groups of lagoons with phenomenal natural beauty, great surfing, and incredibly hospitable natives. Think of the more unspoiled Polynesian islands, but with all the modern conveniences of medical care and communications technology, etc. Another beautiful area is the island of Flinders which features some amazing spiral reefs not far off the shore. The accommodations are far from luxurious, and there is a minor crime problem there, but you’ll ultimately be able to find all the amenities you need, and Sleeping Bay has some spectacular sail boats to watch.
What dangers should we avoid in Tye? Besides the occasional extreme electrical storms, the only real danger out on the water is if a shoal of gouldings feels you are a dangerous predator. They will work together to capsize a boat and/or chew up any person they feel is a threat. The bigger your boat, the better off you’ll likely be.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Tye? Obviously, you can expect a lot of seafood and sea-plant type foods, but there are also tropical regions—the Ikekanes in particular—that have to-die-for luscious fruits. Pina on a stick is a favorite snack that will melt in your mouth.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Tye? Most of the cultures are not particularly violent, but you can find everything from wooden spears to laser rifles and grenade launchers.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Tye? Travel to Tye is done by express shuttles from other planets or space ferries from the Interplanetary City Stations. The shuttles will most often land up on the polar ice cap, the only place with enough uninhabited space for takeoff and landings, etc. The space ferries, however, just drop into the ocean nearest the desired location until a water ferry can come out and retrieve the passengers. Between colonies on the planet, the vast majority of people travel by solar-powered or wind-turbine sailboat because sea-runner planes require too much fuel (synthetic petrol). On the individual islands and atolls, wheeled vehicles are almost always either pulled by horses or people, but since the spaces are so small, people can just walk. If folks want to cut across a lagoon, many swim and use a “board” (like a surf board) to carry their goods.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Tye that we don’t see on Earth? The faneps are humanoids about the size of large cats. They have sharp teeth, retractable claws, big bald heads, enormous lung-capacity (good for swimming), the ability to “float” in the air, and telepathy.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Tye? The world of the humans is all very normal and logical and tech-filled, but the faneps are a whole different matter. The very captivity which afflicts them is caused by the presence of humans; it limits their power of speech and some of their cognitive ability. The “Cycling Ceremony” that Caz is undertaking will somehow mystically change all of that. Caz is given three “gifts” which give her unusual powers: superhuman strength, insanely fast recuperative powers, a perfect memory, and the ability to assert mind over body in controlling certain body functions.
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in Tye? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples. There are many, but the one Caz and her friends use the most often is the comlink. It’s an egg-shaped communication device that can access holographic archive vids (like our modern internet only 3D) or link people through space with live audio-visual feed in a blue inverted cone.
What is the political or government structure in Tye? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she? Tye is part of the Granbo Charter that is a loose affiliation of colonies spread out over the three inhabited planets of the Granbo System and the Interplanetary City-Stations. There is no centralized government, but the colonies have elected governors, and the ICSs have stationmasters. Ambassadors also run liaison between the colonies, etc. to help negotiate trade or resource management, but generally each group is pretty autonomous. Gypsies, who do not usually lock themselves to one location, are not considered citizens of any colony or ICS, and as such are often denied rights or mistrusted by those who remain more stationary. One of the premises of the Cycling Ceremony is that Caz would become Queen of the unified Granbo System and, because of her gypsy ties, bring some dignity to their status.
Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit Tye? Each colony is so different that it is hard to generalize. In some, elderly people are revered as the leaders, yet in others, they are set adrift to die once they have ceased to be highly productive members of society. Some colonies welcome visitors and trade, while others want to be left completely alone. In the Ikekanes, people are very warm and friendly; they clap as a way of greeting and provide community “boards” for recreation and transportation. In Scilly, family relationships are very important, and people are expected to spend a great deal of time talking about how each member is doing prior to conducting any business. In Menorca, agricultural families are conglomerates of families that own large tracts of land and use it for the commercial benefit of the colony.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book? I’ve had the opportunity to travel extensively in my life, and I’ve always been fascinated by different cultures and why they do things in different ways. Although these island colonies were not based on real places I’ve been, per se, I did try to think about what general lines of latitude each might represent. The colony names actually come from real geographic places (towns, islands, etc.) on our own planet that correspond. For example, Wandel Hav is a real place up in the Arctic Circle, and on Tye, it is the northernmost colony.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book? There are a few. One is the treatment of elderly or handicapped, and the other is the whole concept of centralized vs. local government autonomy. I’m not trying to solve the problems as much as open them up for consideration in a less threatening way.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book?
Where can readers connect with you online?
Twitter
website
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Tye. Questions about the world or the book? Ask them in the comments and the author will get back to you!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to the fantasy world of Seilla, in Realm Explorers Part LV!
-Annie Douglass Lima
There are so many times in life when circumstances strip away the familiar, and we’re faced with a choice. Trust or not. Give in to fear or grapple for courage. Stand upon what we’ve known to be true in the light or cower to doubt when darkness rushes in. And let’s be honest, the courageous choice doesn’t come easily. But maybe that’s the point. Whenever I read stories about courage, I’m reminded that bravery isn’t necessarily about vanquishing fear or performing valiant feats. I think real courage is found in everyday choices. When we’re up against all odds, with fear pressing in from all angles, and still we choose to walk by faith. That’s the kind of courage that inspires me. And it’s one of the main reasons I get so excited about inviting you to join Emma in this inspiring story about real love, costly choices, and the courage to fight for what you believe in.
Here’s an excerpt from Light Unshaken:
It was easier to stop pretending at the center. Something about the place girded me with a sense of courage I wasn’t convinced was my own. After not hearing back from Riley for two days, I needed all the help I could get.
His sun-warmed car door pressed into my back while a city bus zipped down the street. Someone hustled toward me through a charcoal cloud of exhaust. “Miss E, wait up.” Dee skidded to a stop in front of the bumper. “Can I ask you somethin’?” He wound the ends of his backpack straps around his fingers and stared at the pavement as though it would answer for me. “Why did you stop him the day in the hall? Mr. A. J., I mean.”
“You wanted me to let him hit you?”
“He was just doin’ what was right.”
Was that what he thought? Same as my initial response, A. J.’s reaction added another defining mark to the stigma that every kid in this neighborhood carried.
Someone opened a back door a little ways ahead of us and dumped a bucket onto the street. Water gushed down the city drain, the steady flow pulling my heart with it. “Just because you’re used to being treated a certain way doesn’t make it right. Labels don’t define you.” No matter his past, he deserved a second chance. We all did.
Years of skepticism tarnished his expression. There had to be a way to break through. “You punish yourself for that night enough as it is.” I squeezed his shoulder. “I forgive you, Dee. I think it’s about time you do the same.”
A slow blink lifted his eyes toward mine. “You really believe the stuff they teach us here, don’t you?”
Two teens from Tito’s gang strutted around the opposite building right as I reached for Dee’s hand. The one with tattoo sleeves hurled a groping stare up and down my body. “No wonder you bailed on us, Dee. Getting a little private tutoring on the side?” He clasped his companion’s hand and laughed. “C’mon, bro, you can’t be hoarding all the goods to yourself like that. Thought we was hermanos.”
They advanced. With my arm secured around Dee’s back, we hustled toward the center. I didn’t glance backward until we made it around the side of the building. The punks didn’t follow. Not so tough in broad daylight, are you?
Dee stopped just beyond the doorway. A look of shame weighed down his whole demeanor again. Just like with the other kids, it killed me to see the bars of his circumstances hold him prisoner. “You’re not like those guys.”
“How do you know?”
“Because you’re here.” Trey was right. It took guts for him to come to the center. I lowered my head to meet his eyes. “Your life has promise. You’ve just gotta be brave enough to believe it.” Same as I did. “Sometimes you need to recite it to yourself.” I circled my hand in the air. “Come on, let’s hear you say, ‘I am courageous.’”
His blank stare swept from me to the door and down the walkway on either side of us. With no one else around, he mumbled the words.
“How about with a little more conviction next time?” One day, he’d believe it.
Light Unshaken
Contemporary Inspirational Romance 233 pages Releases June 24, 2015
It’s real. It has to be. Twenty-two-year-old college student Emma Matthews gained too much ground last year for it all to be a dream. She has an engagement ring on her finger to prove it. Not to mention an internship she’s made for. After a summer of overcoming her fears, Emma can’t afford for the news she just received to shake her. Not when it might jeopardize her future with Riley. And not when the kids in downtown Portland are counting on her to keep the center’s doors open. With the added strain of a broken relationship and an unexpected friendship reminding her what’s at stake, what other choice does she have? But as mounting danger compromises her safety, friction intensifies until the risk of keeping her promise threatens all she’s fought to believe. Caught in a moment when every light in her life goes out, Emma must find the courage to lead her heart no matter what it costs her.
Meet the AuthorCrystal writes contemporary inspirational fiction fueled by venti green teas from Starbucks.
When not working her accounting day job, she’s delving into the wonder of words, supporting her Starbucks habit, or laughing over movie quotes & singing eighties songs with her husband. She’d love to connect with you at
http://crystal-walton.comWelcome to Realm Explorers! In this weekly series, we visit a variety of unique worlds created by talented science fiction and fantasy authors. Enjoy your travels! And don’t forget to read to the bottom of the post to find out more about each author and see how to purchase the featured book.
Author’s name: Shari L. Tapscott
Title of book and/or series: Pippa of Lauramore, Book 1 in The Eldentimber Series
Brief summary of the story:
With her future happiness resting on a traditional marriage tournament, Princess Pippa decides to take matters in her own hands and choose handsome Galinor of Glendon to be her victor. She’ll do everything in her power to ensure her prince wins—even if she must win for him.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
Lauramore is a small kingdom tucked away in the western mountains of Elden. Unlike the jagged peaks farther north, Lauramore’s mountains are soft-stepped terraces blanketed with meadow grass and moss. Tall evergreen woods grow thick father to the south, and if you travel into the valleys, you may wander into the dark bogs where the grim boars make their homes. Many claim Lauramore to be the most beautiful of Elden’s kingdoms, but it’s not without its dangers.
If we were to visit Lauramore as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
You must travel to Palace Lauramore, which is located atop the terraces to the north of the kingdom. A waterfall, fed by a freshwater lake in the terrace above, cascades down next to the palace gardens and falls to a pool below. The sight is especially spectacular in late spring when the runoff is at its peak. However, the falls still run strong through summer when Lauramore holds most of its festivals.
What dangers should we avoid in Lauramore?
Lauramore is considered a fairly safe place to live and travel through as long as you avoid the lower forests. Up higher you may run into an occasional mountain cat, but they are skittish and tend to attack the grazing sheep more often than people. There are rumors that the cries of night-dwelling glasselns—large felines with feathered wings—have been heard recently, but the creatures haven’t been seen in years, and most consider the rumors to be gossip. Still, it would be prudent to use caution if traveling at night.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Lauramore?
Frozen sheep’s milk cream is a delightful treat, especially when paired with mountain cherry pastries.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Lauramore?
Those staying to the main roads may travel by wagon or carriage, but those who wish to venture into the forests must travel by horse or foot. The terraces are steep and, in many places, the paths are narrow.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Lauramore that we don’t see on Earth?
Gold eldentimber trees can be found in the lower forests, as can blue goodleburgen bushes. A variety of smaller plants may also be found, from flowering yallow to medicinal waterchivel. Be cautious of poisonous daphantha berries—they grow in clusters in the higher regions and look similar to blueberries.
If you’re lucky, you may spot a silver stag, though they are elusive. Fairies have been known to inhabit the forest as well, but they don’t tend to stay in one place long. Dragons live farther north. You are likely to find one if you actively seek them out, but with the peace treaty in effect, they tend to keep to themselves.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Lauramore? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
Magic is forbidden to humans, who do not possess it naturally. Any enchanted items must be obtained from fairies, dragons, gimlies, or other naturally magic creatures. For example, Princess Pippa wears a purity ring that is dragon enchanted. At one time, wizard-aided breathing spells were frequently used to harvest black pearls from the lake above the palace, but this practice is now forbidden.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Lauramore.
The summer festivals are the highlight of the year. There are archery contests, jousting, and hand-to-hand combat events for both nobility and villagers. Traveling gypsies will often perform as well. Prince Percival and his brother Alexander lead large hunting parties later in the season.
What is the political or government structure in Lauramore? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
Lauramore is a monarchy, with the king at present being King Ewan. Many consider him a good and fair king but there are some who feel he is too friendly with Errinton, a harsh kingdom to the far north.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
Lauramore was highly inspired by the mountains near Silverton, Colorado. The area is pristine and almost unreal in its beauty. The creatures and plants I created were often just a mish-mash of things I love. Many of the plants were inspired by real flowers and herbs. The waterfall next to the palace is an image I’ve had in my head since I was young—I’m not entirely sure where it came from.
Author Autobiography:I live with my husband and two children in Western Colorado. Pippa of Lauramore is my first published novel, and I hope to write a great many more. I love to read, and my favorite stories are the ones with dashing heroes, brave heroines, and a large assortment of plucky side-characters.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book?
Pippa of Lauramore is available for Kindle and in paperback, and you may buy it on Amazon.
Where can readers connect with you online?
Elizabeth Renee Watson never dreamt that she would ever be proposed to.
She’s had several bad relationships end because of an illness that almost killed her. Now she has this wonderful guy down on one knee, asking her to marry him. Can she say yes or will her illness come back to haunt her? Will Tyler be able to deal with her illness or will he run like the rest of them.
Tyler James Smith had given up on finding his “forever girl” until he took his best friend’s son to school one day. When he walked into that classroom, he finally met the girl of his dreams. Tyler had always envied his friends and their loving relationships. He wanted what they had.
Can Elizabeth and Tyler have the “forever” they’ve always dreamed of?
Book one
Book Two
Book Three
As a stay at home mom, I became an avid reader who loves and reads most genres. The love of these books spiked my interest to learn more about the book world and the process it took to become an author. Learning as much as I can about the wonderful world of writing, I had to write my stories. I’ve had these stories building in my head for over a year and I just needed to share them with everyone.
Educating myself in this industry has made me work hard to obtain my goals of writing and becoming an author. The learning process has also made me appreciate, what all these authors have accomplished and all the hard work they put into writing and publishing. I quickly learned that it is important to thank an author by leaving reviews of their work. Having many author friends who always answer my many questions has helped me and I love each of them. These authors are my inspiration.
I can’t wait to share all my stories with you!!! My novels are Clean New Adult/Young Adult Romance. Hope you enjoy my unique stories about love and happily ever after.
Why do I write clean romance novels? I wanted to share my story with everyone and focus more on the storyline. As a mother, I needed to know that my children would be proud of what I write and not be afraid to let them read and be apart of my journey as an author. This world already has too much going on in it that I can’t control them from seeing, but I can make my books something they can be proud to read.
Now I can share my stories with anyone at any age group. Adults and teenagers alike can read my stories and I am proud to have kept it clean for everyone to read.
Thank you for being apart of my world and taking a chance on reading my stories.
I love hearing from my readers so feel free to contact me and let me hear why or how you liked my stories.
Welcome to Realm Explorers! In this weekly series, we visit a variety of unique worlds created by talented science fiction and fantasy authors. Enjoy your travels! And don’t forget to read to the bottom of the post to find out more about each author and see how to purchase the featured book.
Author’s name:
Michael Eash
Title of book:
The Living Light
Brief summary of the story:
A rebellion long planned by the King’s top adviser begins to take shape. As the villain builds his army in secret and forges alliances with old enemies, his experiments open a portal toour world. With Terrmara’s unique resources and technology from the earth, he plans to rule his world and take his rightful place as King.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
Terramara is the western most continent of my fantasy world. It’s covered mostly in rolling hills and towering mountains. However, a large peninsula juts out from the mainland and is entirely covered in woods.
If we were to visit Terramara as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
A trip to the King’s city, Atlantia, would be worth your while. It’s the largest gathering of peoples in the world. Inside the city, the citadel of the King is a must see. It’s shaped like a five-pointed star and painted in colors of the sunset. A golden tower rises above the city to give visitors a view of the Great Western Ocean.
The Wooded Peninsula is worth a long stroll as the sunlight filters through the evergreens. Both the tree-top village of Yamara (think Star Wars) and the fabled Elvish city Lena lie within its borders.
What dangers should we avoid in Terramara?If you made it in before the war, you would need to be on the lookout for Rogues. Rogues are a highly organized group of thieves, bandits, and pirates. Many were drivenout when the continent was first settled,but enough remain to threaten the unprepared traveler.
If you arrived during the war, Antlatia and Lena would be the only 100% safe places. Anywhere else you’d risk detainment or being caught in the middle of a battle. Natas is ruthless in his war against the King and will kill you out of spite.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Terramara?
Not necessarily. The common folk eat homegrown fruits and vegetables and purchase grain and wild game when they can. The deer living in the Wooded Peninsula are highly prized by hunters.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Terramara?
Most elves and men carry some kind of blade. The wealthy customize their swords to their fighting styles. The Prince, hated enemy of Natas, wields a katana-like sword. The elves of the Wooded Peninsula prefer a good bow but will use knives and daggers in a pinch. The giant men from the mountains are the only ones to use war axes, but the most uncommon weapons are wielded by the elves of the flame. This sect of the elvish race fights with claw-like weapons attached to their wrists, freeing their hands to use their unique abilities.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Terramara?
The original settlers sailed to Terramara across the Ocean and kept their ships to defend against Rogues. The Rogues also maintain a fleet on the southern coasts. Elves and their allies are the only ones that ride Griffins, the intelligent creatures have sided with the King. Riding bareback is an experienceunlike anything you can imagine.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Terramara that we don’t see on Earth?
Plant life is relatively similar to Earth thanks to the environment, but there are many sentient races spread across the continent. Elves are the most common species in Terramara. Five separate cultures have arisen over the years.
Light Elves are what you would find in a Lord of the Rings world and inhabit villages and towns alongside humans. Wood elves are an offshoot of the Light Elves that live on the peninsula and prefer the long bow to the sword.
Twilight Elves are the most ancient elven races and migrated later to Terramara after escaping a bloody civil war in their homeland. Their hair turns a silvery-gray before adolescents and their eyes carry a violet pigment, allowing them better night vision. Older Twilight Elves, most of them veterans of war, are the best warriors to be found.
The Elves of the Flame are a mysterious group. They are blessed with a magic that enables them to call fire to their hands and control it. Their ancestors came from the Twilight Elves’ homeland.
The last group are the Dark Elves, those who’ve joined Natas and been corrupted by his power. Natas is a Dark Elf.
One other race populates Terramara.The Chromes usually stick to their vast, underground caverns. They migrated around the same time as the Twilight Elves and settled in the mountains. They are a strong, dark-skinnedrace of enormous proportions. Some stand as high as nine feet though the average is closer to seven. They are hardy miners and make powerful soldiers should the need arise.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Terramara? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
The Elves of the Flame are born with their abilities to call fire to their aid. The only other aspects I would deem ‘magical’ are the swords of The King and The Prince. They give off a wholesome, living light that can tell if a person is a faithful follower or a traitor sided with Natas.
As far as the supernatural, this whole story is an allegory waiting to be discovered by the reader. It’s not so over the head that a typical reader couldn’t ignore it if they wanted to, but it’s there for a reader to find.
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in Terramara? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples.
Several crystalline elements exist in Terramara that don’t exist on Earth. It is unknown whether their properties are magical, chemical or both. These stones are used to propel small, flat-bottom boats at high speeds.
Natas has found a way to utilize these in combination with Earth’s projectile weapons. The results are devastating.
What is the political or government structure in Terramara? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
Terramara is divided into four primary regions. The southernmost islands are dominated by the Rogues and their fleet. The Mountain Ranges just north of the islands belong to the Chromes.Their capital is the underground fortress-city of Argonum. Light Elves and Humans inhabit towns and villages scattered near the coasts and rivers. Each city oversees its villages and is ruled by a governor answerable to the King. The remaining Elvish races live in homesteadsscattered thorugout the Wooded Peninsula. Lena is a central meeting place known only to the elves. It is used as a hidden refuge in times of trouble and Natas, the leader of the rebellion, will do anything to burn it out of existence.
The King is the ultimate authority and is like no other being in Terramara. Light purer than the sun radiates from him at all times and inspires courage in his followers and dread in his enemies. No warrior can match his skill with the blade or his compassion. The King and his son are central figures in the fight for Terramara.
Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit Terramara?
Last names were invented by the elves and most humans don’t have one yet.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
The Wooded Peninsula came from my love of Washington State’s evergreens. Even when the skies are gray,the trees are still full of life and color. Beyond that, both the Bible and the Tolkien’s Lord of The Rings influenced Terramara’s creation.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
I touch slightly on the moral issues of killing in war, but only as is appropriate for Middle School or Young Adult audiences.
Author Autobiography:
This is my third year of serious writing. I published The Living Light at seventeen and haven’t stopped writing since. Currently, I’m working my way through my college degree while tweaking the second short-story in my Sci-fi/superhero series. I love Christian Speculative Fiction (Fantasy, Sci-fi, and all the related genres) and think it’s a great way to reach an entertainment-hungry generation searching for direction.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book?
Where can readers connect with you online?
I’m still working on building my blog/website.
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Terramara. Questions about the world or the book? Ask them in the comments and the author will get back to you!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to the fantasy world of Lauramore, in Realm Explorers Part LIII!
-Annie Douglass Lima
We’re blitzing the Grand Finale for:
The Good Father
By Tara Taylor Quinn
If you missed any part of this tour, including any of the excellent guest posts (some of the best we’ve had the chance to promote) go back and check them out now, along with some excellent reviews…
Launch – Intro to The Good Father
This is the story I sat down to write. What happened on the page was, as usual, a total surprise to me.
His father had failed first.
And then, according to his mother, she’d failed, too.
Brett didn’t agree with her assessment, knowing that when she’d lashed out at him the afternoon of Livia’s funeral, beating him on the chest with blows that didn’t even leave bruises, she’d been railing at life, distraught with grief, and clinging to him as much as pounding her fists against the wall he presented between her and her need to die…
“The characters are so realistic and lovable, I mean how can you not love them with everything that they have been through.”
In every good story there has to be ‘that’ moment. The one in which the reader can’t see how the characters are going to get past their hurdles. The one that keeps the reader turning the page to find out…
Still in the navy blue suit he’d worn to attend the morning board meeting, he’d loosened the knot of the red tie a bit. His one concession to relaxation. His wing tips were shined. His smart watch in place.
Brett’s life was a mission—and all pieces were accounted for.
When my story went public, my editor gave me another purpose. She wanted me to write a series of books revolving around a domestic violence shelter. I’d never felt more in commune with a project in my life. And so The Lemonade Stand was born. The Lemonade Stand, Where Secrets Are Safe. It’s a very unique women’s shelter. One that I wish so badly had been there for me to run to all those years ago. One that I wish existed today.
“Tara Taylor Quinn weaves a story here that grabs you and doesn’t let go until well after you turn the last page. The characters are compelling and realistic, their motives clear, and the conflict is high stakes and seems insurmountable. Ms. Quinn doesn’t shortchange the reader by giving us a pat ending that doesn’t take into account all that has gone on before, but gives the reader both a satisfying and realistic ending that makes the ride worth it–just like she promised.”
He’d been celebrating. Ten years since he’d sold the dot-com he’d started his junior year in college. A decade of his life had passed, and here he was. Standing alone in the walk-in shower in his elegant, historical, two-story walk-up across a quiet street from a flowered lot that led to the ocean beyond.
The books revolving around The Lemonade Stand are not all interrelated. Many of them don’t even feature characters who lived and breathed in previous books. The books are connected by a place. The Lemonade Stand. The series started out with ideas for three books. I am currently working on an eighth one and number nine is on its way, too. So for anyone who is new to the series, and for those of you who want a reminder, I’ll give you a one liner look at the first five books.
“I really loved this story, I loved that it shows there are help for women out there and there is also love out there, even when it is hard to realize.”
It was right then that Brett told me about his favorite meal. He told me, not to fill in background noise, but because it showed me the conflicted man he was. His favorite meal was a peanut butter and bacon sandwich. He loved them. And as he scarfed one down, he was angry with himself, too. Because his father had introduced him to the delicacy when Brett was a young boy. And Brett, the adult, hates his father with every dark crevice in his being.
I sat down to write the first book in the Where Secrets Are Safe series, Wife By Design, and the hero shows up at The Lemonade Stand – the unique women’s shelter around which the series is revolving – as a landscaper. Kind of threw me for a loop. I know very little about landscaping. I tried to convince him he was something else. He kept coming back as a landscaper. So I did some research.
The Good Father
(Where Secrets Are Safe #6)
by Tara Taylor Quinn
Adult Romance
Paperback & ebook, 384 pages
June 1st 2015 by Harlequin
Starting over…again
It seems a lifetime ago that Brett Ackerman wanted to share his life with Ella Wales. He really believed he could put his abusive family history behind him…until he realized it would always be part of him. Then he pushed her away. Hard.
Now Ella’s back as part of the High Risk Team at The Lemonade Stand, the unique women’s shelter Brett founded. And she needs his help with a family crisis. But even now, Brett can’t admit he still loves her. Until one night of passion with Ella turns Brett into the one thing he fears the most—a father.
Also in the Series
Tara Taylor Quinn
The author of more than 70 original novels, in twenty languages, Tara Taylor Quinn is a USA Today bestseller with over six million copies sold. She is known for delivering deeply emotional and psychologically astute novels of suspense and romance. Tara is a recipient of the Reader’s Choice Award, a five time finalist for the RWA Rita Award, the Reviewer’s Choice Award, the Bookseller’s Best Award and appears frequently on bestseller lists, including #1 placement on Amazon lists. Tara is the past-president of Romance Writers of America and served eight years on that board of directors. She has appeared on national and local TV across the country, including CBS Sunday Morning and is a frequent guest speaker. In her spare time Tara likes to travel, climb Arizona mountains, and inline skate.
Tara is a supporter of the National Domestic Violence Hotline. If you or someone you know might be a victim of domestic violence in the United States, please contact 1-800-799-7233.
Click on the banner to take you to Tara’s landing page for all her tour events.As part of Spend the Summer with Tara Taylor Quinn, Tara is holding a contest for those who share on social media about how they love life during the summer! Each day you can share an image, picture, or quote, linking to her events’ landing page (http://www.tarataylorquinn.com/Summer%20With%20ttq.html) to enter to win ONE BIG SUMMER BASKET!!! We’ll be pulling the best submissions and voting for the top one during her Facebook Party on July 16th. Pull out your creative juices and share your joy of summer, be it with friends, family, or the love of your life!
Beach-themed basket will include: shell wind chime, shell choker and matching bracelet, beach/flip flop note cards, picture frame, 4×6 picture album, plus some surprise print copies of Tara’s books (including Once Upon a Friendship).
Share must be public to be eligible. Can enter once each day. US only. Giveaway ends July 16th.
$10 VISA Gift Card & ebook of The Good Father (INT)
Print copy of The Good Father & a Spend the Summer with TTQ T-shirt (US only)
ebook of The Good Father (INT)
Ends June 18th
(All to one winner – US only.)
$10 VISA Gift Card
Copies of all five books on Tara’s Summer Tour
Spend the Summer with TTQ T-Shirt
Ends July 16th
Today I’m pleased to feature a guest post from Annie Washburn. She has an interesting ministry in several local jails! Read on to find out more about what she does and how you can get involved!
-Annie Lima
Ever toss a pebble into a completely still pool of water? Ever watch how far the ripples coming from that little pebble continue? Basically they keep going and going, effecting the whole pool. Ever consider what kind of ripple you desire to send out, as we make our splash in the pool of life?
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| Rutherford County Jail in Murfreesboro, TN |
I began going to the local jail the summer of 2014 because I wanted to bring the presence of the Heavenly Father and His Son into a dismal place. Picture a small, brown concrete room, 15 by 15 square feet. It has 4 metal bunks, a small round metal table with 4 metal stools attached and also a small square metal table with 2 metal stools attached .
It often can have as many as 20 ladies…their plastic matts cover just about all of the floor space, so there is no where to step without possibly stepping on someone. Imagine the noise level….especially if there is contention and foul spirited inmates. No privacy, no where to “get away”, 12 to 20 women stuck together… day in day out, for months at a time, sometimes years.
Daily life? The inmates are awaken about 7am with the heavy metal door being open to bring breakfast. They eat and lay back down in a darkened cell. If they have TV privileges, the TV may be turned on. At about 11 am, lunch is brought. They sit around until supper, then they sit around until they fall asleep for the night. When I go in at 10 am on Mondays, the cell is still dark. They turn the lights on for my visit. I do not know what time the lights come on if I am not there.
Sometimes, a few of them may go out for “work release”. That is not common. That entails working in the jail garden, cleaning some state buildings, or helping with mailings.
My name is Annie, I am the bride of Tom of 25 years and the mother of 7, ages 24 to 11. As I now have more adult children than minors in our home, I have had less schooling to teach and more time to invest in our community. I chose visiting the ladies in jail as my way of investing into our community.
I am writing this to ask for help to commit to pray for at least one, if not two of the inmates and their children. It truly makes a difference. Since others have committed to help me by prayer, it feels like we are on the winning side of what is happening in that cell.
It will not be easy for you though, because:
#1. You don’t know them personally, so your prayers have to be led by the Holy Spirit.
#2. I may not be able to give you updates on what is happening with your particular lady. Some of them get moved to other jails or released. To keep up with them, and update you, takes more time that I have in my day. :0)
#3. The devil wants them to stay chained in spiritual darkness so he will not appreciate you battling for them to break free.
Why is it so important to have prayer for the ladies? It softens their hearts, they become open to having a relationship with the Heavenly Father and His Son. Let me give you an example of answered prayer. There is an older lady (late 50’s) who came in and out of the jail three times (she currently will be in for awhile). Let’s call her Vivian. She was always laying on her bunk and had her face towards the wall while I visited, I never heard her talk.
As I prayed for her, the Father always gave me scriptures for her, that dealt with wanting to bring healing to her hurts and also He was wooing her to Him. I would write these scriptures on a notecard and give them to her weekly, for months.
Back in February, some of the ladies were getting baptized. I was able to go into their cell just before we went to the room with the tub. The ladies were in an awed hush, nervous and excited. While we were waiting, I heard someone explaining to the ladies that were getting baptized, that they better not take what they are doing lightly. They are making a commitment and need to walk responsibly. I was surprised to see it was Vivian explaining scriptural truths to the ladies. I realized she had much scriptural understanding.
After the baptism, I noticed Vivian, sitting by herself crying. I went over and hugged her and begged her to come back to her Father. She had no response.
In March, Vivian came up to me and in a tough and hard voice explained to me that she wanted nothing to do with God and preferred her drugs. I said I was sorry for her choice, does she ever think she would come back to God? She said something like, if He wants her, He could talk to her. I said how it seems like He has been doing that for months, through the scriptures He was giving me to give to her…..didn’t she think so? She was silent and walked away.
One beautiful Sabbath day in April, our whole family was sitting at the table eating and I felt strongly impressed to describe each of the ladies in jail to my family. As I talked about Vivian, my husband started asking me a lot of questions about her. His heart was so touched for her, that he started praying for her hurts to be healed.
The next time I visited the jail, as I was leaving, Vivian came up to me and gave me a hug and thanked me for coming. I was stunned. Each week she has been getting happier and happier. The middle of May, she asked if I could bring her a bible. I was able to get her one and gave it to her June 1st. She was so tickled. Prayer made the difference!
What is also crucial, is they need to be built up and grounded in a relationship with Him, before they are released. Why? How many of you have heard someone sneer and say something like “So and so had a jail house conversion” and go on to talk about how they doubt it will stick?
What would happen if words of faith were spoken over them and not words of failure? What would happen if prayers of faith were spoken for them, to strengthen them against the wiles of the enemy? I know, I know many bad people continue in their wicked ways and continue to break peoples hearts. But maybe just maybe, this inmate won’t be that one.
It is so difficult for inmates to succeed when they are released. They have to overcome so many obstacles. Where do they live? How do they get a job with no car to take them to it, let alone their record being considered? Who do they turn to for encouragement to walk right? So often when they go back to where they came from, they are overcome back into a life of sin. The influences of their family and friends are too strong.
My hope is that the ladies who become believers in jail will be able to help and encourage each other when they get out, to continue walking in righteousness, as opposed to encouraging each other back into the life they led before being in jail.
If you are disciplined and able to commit to praying for one or two of these ladies, please contact me and I will send you a list of who is available to commit to, for your prayer coverage.
With much thankfulness and appreciation,
Annie Washburn
Check out the trailer here:
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nowpEJqB00Y]
Hello!
Today we are going to focus on the next book in the compilation.
Check it out!
Shark Boss:
When Tara takes up a job at the local aquarium, her colleagues warn her about their harsh boss, Mr. Carter Jones. She soon discovers how impatient he can be, but she also can’t deny her fascination and attraction to him. Carter can’t stop watching Tara as she works but holds back from her because of his secrets. If she knew what he was, she would never want him. Could the reason for Carter’s moods be related to something more troubling than what’s on the surface? Tara soon discovers Carter’s secret, and it only bonds them closer. But the curse starts to take over Carter’s life, and he won’t give his heart to a beautiful woman when he can only cause her pain.
Now about the amazing lady behind this book!
Kathy Bosman Kathy loves reading and writing even more. She homeschools her three kids, so in between unsuccessfully explaining the difference between subject and predicate or how to divide fractions, she enters an imaginary world of troubled and passionate characters whose stories take over the page. Kathy lives in Kwazulu Natal, South Africa, where the summers are hot, the winters cool, and bugs thrive. Her first published novel, Wedding Gown Girl, came out in 2012 with Astraea Press. She belongs to the Romance Writers of South Africa Group (ROSA) which has been her greatest support and inspiration the last few years.
Amazon YouTube Newsletter Subscription Tsu Authorgraph
Interview with Tara, the main character in Shark Boss
1. What is your favorite food?
A good breakfast with eggs, bacons, mushrooms, toast, the works. I don’t get it often as I spend most mornings body-boarding and then grab and go to get to work on time. If I have a good breakfast, it’s a real treat.
2. What is your favorite pastime or hobby?
Body-boarding, although it’s more my life than just a hobby.
3. What is your favorite book?
I love the Chalet Girls series by Lorraine Wilson. I’m a beach babe, but it’s such fun learning about women who live in the snow and ski. Skiing is similar to body-boarding in a strange way, if you know what I mean. Plus, the books are so romantic and fun to read.
4. Who would you consider is your least favorite person, and why?
It should be my new boss, Carter Jones, as he keeps on shouting at me for nothing, but it isn’t. He’s too handsome and mysterious to hate.
5. What is your biggest pet-peeve?
Perfectionism – harping on the smaller issues. And cruelty to animals.
6. What is your dream vacation?
Mauritius or anywhere where the waves are good.
7. Did you struggle to tell your author anything?
Yes, I struggled to mention my affair with my high school teacher. I felt really ashamed for falling for that jerk.
8. What is your favorite part of your story?
When Carter tells me the truth.
9. What inspired the title of your story?
My writer kept on thinking of shark bait. But Carter is a boss and he was a shark in the business world, plus, well, I can’t tell you anymore as it will give away the story.
10. Do you think that there is a specific message to your story, that you’d like your readers to learn?
That love wins in the end. That meeting and loving the right person can set you free of some of your “curses.” That simply loving a person is one of the greatest gifts you can give to the world. That love surpasses duty.
Book Buy Links:
Don’t forget to get your name into our GIVEAWAY!!!
Book Tour Schedule:
(You can check out posts that have been made during this tour here:
Don’t forget! Each author in this tour will be featured once during the tour, and on her special day there will be all kinds of fun facts to check out about her and her book!
June 6th:
Featuring Dreaming in California by Debbie Lee
June 7th:
Featuring A Summer of Stars by Lisa Watson
June 8th:
Featuring Drowning Sandy by Sarah Daley
June 9th:
Featuring Summer Holiday by Carol Malone
June 10th:
Featuring Shark Boss by Kathy Bosman
June 11th:
Featuring The Best Place to Meet a Man by Robyn Echols
June 12th:
Featuring the entire compilation
Welcome to Realm Explorers! In this weekly series, we visit a variety of unique worlds created by talented science fiction and fantasy authors. Enjoy your travels! And don’t forget to read to the bottom of the post to find out more about each author and see how to purchase the featured book. One of these is FREE on Amazon!
Author’s name:
Sarah Ashwood
Title of book and/or series:
Aerisia: Land Beyond the Sunset (free!)
Aerisia: Gateway to the Underworld
Aerisia: Field of Battle
Books 1, 2, and 3 of the Sunset Lands Beyond trilogy
Brief summary of the story:
From Earth to Aerisia, Hannah Winters has unexpectedly gone from college student to prophesied savior of a parallel world. Here in Aerisia, the existence and survival of all depend upon her as Aerisia’s Artan who must battle and defeat the dread Dark Powers. Plenty of people, including fairies, giants, the Moonkind, and even the Simathe, a mysterious race of immortal warriors, are willing to help Hannah navigate this new world and its pitfalls. However, there’s only one person Hannah can count on to truly save her, and that’s herself. Unfortunately, saving herself may mean becoming someone she doesn’t know and doesn’t know how to become. And that’s a woman with magic: the Artan.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
Aerisia is a beautiful land full of magic and promise that lies beyond Earth’s sunsets. In Aerisia, there exist many new creatures and races of people, such as the evil drocnords, deathcats, the Moonkind (people of the moon), and the immortal Simathe. Also in Aerisia, are more familiar fairytale creatures like fairies, dragons, gargoyles, and giants. Ages ago, the ways between our two worlds were open and inhabitants of one realm could travel to the other. As time went by, the ways between Earth and Aerisia were eventually closed; however, memories of Aerisia have remained in Earth’s memory, handed down to us in fairytales, myth, and legend.
If we were to visit Aerisia as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
My first stop would be Laytrii’s palace, which is also the first stop of our heroine, Hannah Winters, when she arrives in Aerisia. Carved from the heart of a mountain, Laytrii’s palace is a marble edifice where both magic and the ruling body of Aerisia reside. It is, in effect, the life center of the whole realm. I would also like to meet the Galandorf, a piratical sea people, and travel to the land of the Warkin, the dragon tamers. Lastly, I wouldn’t mind meeting a fairy or a dragon or two—or even a Simathe!
What dangers should we avoid in Aerisia?
Definitely the drocnords! Although they aren’t the wiliest servants of the Dark Powers, they are fierce, fast, and merciless.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Aerisia?
The Simathe, a band of immortal warriors and Aerisia’s strongest, if most secretive, military asset, are well versed in all forms of weaponry. Their High-Chief, Ilgard, is usually seen carrying a sword or yedin, while his Chief Captain, Norband, prefers a bow. Under the tutelage of the Simathe, Hannah learns to use a sword, but a bow is her weapon of choice.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Aerisia?
The most common type of transportation would be the horse and any horse drawn vehicle. The most uncommon would be the fairies’ transporting doors, an invisible method of moving instantaneously from one place to another. Typically, this is used only by the fairies, but Hannah does make use of them when she travels to the Underworld in book two. Fairies are also sometimes seen riding golden unicorns, which is the emblem on their standard, as well.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Aerisia that we don’t see on Earth?I’ve already mentioned some of the races, such as the Simathe, fairies, and giants. As far as animals go, the Simathe have their own distinct breed of horses, the Restless, that are tireless and fearless. There are also deathcats—a breed of cat larger than an ox, with the ability to think on an almost human level. They sometimes work alone, but are often found working with the Cistweigh, the living dead.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Aerisia? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
Magic abounds in Aerisia and colors much of everyday life, from the immortality of the Simathe, to the healing powers of the Moonkind, to the ability of the fairies to protect and preserve the natural realm. In Aerisia, magic stems either from the Powers of Good or the Dark Powers. As Artan, Hannah must learn to wield the magic imparted to her by the Powers of Good to such an extent that she can finally and fully defeat the growing evil of the Dark Powers.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Aerisia? Please describe what it involves.
Religion, per se, does not play heavily into the world of Aerisia. The main religion referenced is the Peace of the Moon, which is followed by the Moonkind. Basically, it is a set of beliefs that promotes pacifism and abhors violence. Although the Moonkind are instrumental in bringing Hannah to Aerisia so she can fight the Dark Powers as the Artan, and although they are some of her main teachers in learning to use her magic, they do not follow her into the climatic final battle in book three, except as healers of the wounded.
What is the political or government structure in Aerisia? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
Aerisia is ruled by the Council, which consists of twelve Elders chosen from among the people by the people. There are also four Pronconcil: a Ranetron (military leader), a Simathe (also a military leader), a Cortain (leader of a group of female warriors), and a Spinner (female keepers of Aerisia’s history, legends, and lore). Presiding over Council and its members is the High Elder.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
A sunset walk down a country road when I was teenager birthed the Sunset Lands Beyond trilogy. The scene in the opening chapter of book one, Aerisia: Land Beyond the Sunset, where Hannah meets the Moonkind Guardian, Risean Wy’ Curlm, who whisks her away from her Colorado home to Laytrii’s palace in the land of Aerisia, was inspired by an incident in real life. I used to walk/run country roads at evening when it was cooler, I had a neighbor who raised horses and had a huge, old stump in his pasture, and my overactive imagination sometimes tricked me into thinking that stump was something it wasn’t. Once, it was a bear, once a dog, once a stranger in flowing robes…which got me to thinking. What would happen if I actually ran across a stranger from another time period or world? Put these factors together, and Aerisia was born.
Author Autobiography:A genuine Okie from Muskogee, Sarah Ashwood grew up in the wooded hills outside the oldest town in Oklahoma. She is author of the Sunset Lands Beyond fantasy trilogy, a poetry volume “A Minstrel’s Musings,” and the fantasy novella “Amana,” along with numerous other published works. In her imagination, she soars effortlessly through historical and fantastical worlds. In real life, she lives (mostly) quietly at home with her husband and sons. Besides writing, she enjoys running and completed her first half marathon in November of 2014.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? Please include links.
My Sunset Lands Beyond trilogy is available in ebook and print editions. The best place to find all purchase links for each book in the trilogy is my author page on Ultimate Fantasy Books, here. (Don’t forget to download Aerisia: Land Beyond the Sunset for free!)
Where can readers connect with you online?
You can find me on my Sarah Ashwood Facebook author page, friend me on my Sarah Ashwood Goodreads page, follow me on Twitter @1sarahashwood, or on Instagram where I go by @runnerwritermom. If you want to see lots of pins related to fairytales, fantasy, magic, castles, reading, and writing (and occasionally fitness and running), you can follow me on my Pinterest page, as well.
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Aerisia. Questions about the world or the book? Ask them in the comments and the author will get back to you!
Click here to read other posts in the Realm Explorers series.
Please join us again next Monday for a trip to the fantasy world of Terramara, in Realm Explorers Part LII!
-Annie Douglass Lima
We’re blitzing the Grand Finale for
Hope In Every Raindrop
By Wesley Banks
Best-selling author Katie Price struggles to find her next story until she happens upon America’s rarest dog breed and the man that raises them. If you missed any of the stops on this tour, there’s plenty of time to go back and check them out now and enter the giveaway below…
Launch
What do you hope readers take with them after they’ve read it?
While the entire plot of Hope In Every Raindrop is fiction, the world of Carolina Dogs is based on my own experiences with the breed in Bishopville. I wanted to share this world with others, while at the same time conveying how precious life can be.
Getting Your Read On – Review
“I love the title of this book “Hope in Every Raindrop” and the running theme of it throughout the book. I also loved the dogs in this book and how they played a large roll in the life and learning of the characters.”
Wishful Endings – Excerpt
He wasn’t wearing a hat, either. It was the first time she’d seen him without one. His hair was dark brown, almost black. Short on the sides, and just enough to run her fingers through on the top. Katie moved to take a step towards him—except it wasn’t a step at all, because her foot caught on a small rock embedded in a patch of clay and she tripped. She tried to break the fall with her arms, but she had been too distracted to recover quickly enough. As she hit the ground she let out a soft whimper, her shoulder driving hard into the dirt.
Writing Pearls – Review
“I am super impressed that this romance was written by a man it is a rare treat. That makes up for some of the slowness. I would say it’s a fun rainy day read. (See what I did there?)”
Words for the Journey – Review
“If you’re a fan of Nicholas Sparks, you’ll easily find a new favorite author in Wesley Banks. Hope in Every Raindrop is a lovely inspirational novel with a moving message, romantic charm, and lovable characters.”
Story Broads – 10 Reasons to Fall in Love with a Small Town GuyMy new book, Hope In Every Raindrop is set in the small town of Bishopville, SC. A town that has consistently remained around 3,000 people in total population. A town that Kyle Walker has never left.
When Katie Price meets Kyle Walker, there are many reasons she might fall in love with a small town guy like him, but these are the top 10.
Recently I posted my current to-be-read (TBR) list on
Instagram. There were 15 books on that list, and since then I’ve read 3. Of course, none of those 3 were on my TBR list, but that’s a different story.
Today I wanted to talk about the 5 books I’m most excited about on this list.
It was early spring of 2007. I was on track to graduate from the University of Florida in a couple months, and already had a job lined up in Tampa. Yet, I found myself looking through a giant green book called, “The Dog Bible.”
I had spent weeks studying breeds, and narrowed it down to a breed that I had never heard of: Carolina dog. . . .
I fell in love with the dogs from the moment I saw them.
When you read
Hope In Every Raindrop, one thing you’ll quickly notice is Kyle Walker is the quiet type. He’s far from shy, but he tends to be more reserved, especially about himself. So, I thought it would be fun to ask Kyle some random questions that he couldn’t avoid answering.
I decided the world needs to know about pimiento cheese,
and the greatest thing you can make with it: a pimiento cheeseburger. Of course, Kyle Walker just so happens to make one of these special burgers for Katie Price, in Hope In Every Raindrop.
Standing back at the edge of her porch, all she could see was a plain white piece of paper taped to her wall. Still, she could aim towards the center of the map and hit Missouri, Nebraska, or Kansas. Or for the corners and land on Florida, Georgia, New York, Maine, Washington, California, and so on. So, she picked up the dart and turned her back to the map. Counting to three, she spun back around and let the dart go without hesitation. It wasn’t a perfect throw, but it stuck solidly to the wall with a thud.
My sister called the other day to check in and the first thing she asked is, “What are you doing?”
“I’m writing,” I said.
“Writing? I thought you were done with your book.”
“Kyle and Katie seem to form a sweet bond even if Kyle doesn’t talk much. Katie learns to love the animals just as much as Kyle, and that is when their relationship really blooms.
This is a sweet story, about loss, love, hope, and finding inspiration through others. It really is such a sweet read.”
Hope In Every Raindrop
by Wesley Banks
NA Contemporary
ebook, 202 pages
May 26th 2015
“Small towns have big stories.” That was a lesson Katie’s father taught her years ago. A lesson she’s taken to heart. And right now, Katie is desperate for a big story. Reeling from the recent loss of her father and with her agent breathing down her neck for the next book, the twenty-one-year-old writer picks a spot on the map and finds herself bound for a middle-of-nowhere town called Bishopville, South Carolina.
Taking a chance on the words of a local grocer, Katie stumbles upon a rare breed of dogs raised by the town doctor and his nephew Kyle. The only problem? Kyle isn’t interested in telling stories—especially not to a big-city girl who can’t seem to sit still. In an attempt to win him over as the clock winds down, Katie finds herself immersed in Kyle’s world, doing everything but writing.
When inspiration finally strikes, Katie is faced with an unforeseen catastrophe and a truth she can no longer ignore. While she has come to love the dogs, the real story may be about Kyle Walker.
Wesley Banks was born in 1983 and grew up on the west coast of Florida. He graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Civil Engineering. After spending over 7 years building movable bridges from Florida to Washington he decided to focus on his true passion: writing.
Wesley recently moved from Florida to Oregon to get back to the great outdoors that he’s love so much. He lives with my wife Lindsey, and his two dogs Linkin and Story. Most of his time these days is spent writing, with as much rock climbing, hiking, or skiing as they can fit in.
Wesley’s debut novel, “Hope In Every Raindrop,” is set to be released May of 2015.
Tour Giveaway
$25 Amazon Gift Card
3 ebook copies of Hope In Every Raindrop
Open internationally
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Tye? Most of the cultures are not particularly violent, but you can find everything from wooden spears to laser rifles and grenade launchers.
Meet the Author
Author Autobiography:
What dangers should we avoid in Terramara?
My name is Annie, I am the bride of Tom of 25 years and the mother of 7, ages 24 to 11. As I now have more adult children than minors in our home, I have had less schooling to teach and more time to invest in our community. I chose visiting the ladies in jail as my way of investing into our community.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Aerisia that we don’t see on Earth?
Author Autobiography:
Recently I posted my current to-be-read (TBR) list on Instagram. There were 15 books on that list, and since then I’ve read 3. Of course, none of those 3 were on my TBR list, but that’s a different story. 
Katie’s Clean Book Collection – Pimiento Cheese Burger
Zerina Blossom’s Books – Searching for the Next Great Story