About the Book
One wild night, Shance Windkeeper discovers he is married to a death unicorn. But that’s the least of his troubles. As an agent for the Lawless, Shance is working with dragonshifters Kesia Ironfire and Zephryn Nightstalker, trying to end the dragon-human war and the organization that masterminded it. While on a mission in the Scepter of Knowledge, the Lawless is hit with a devastating death unicorn attack. Out of the wreckage new allies emerge: Lirome Ukerys, and his twin sister Maira, the death unicorn queen—Shance’s long-lost wife. Recently freed from captivity, Maira is fighting to regain control of her herd. Lurien Alistil, a rogue death unicorn, has bespelled the Scepter of Knowledge and taken Maira’s son. When Kesia unexpectedly challenges Lurien to a public debate, the Lawless has a chance to break the usurper’s hold. To obtain vital information they must infiltrate her lair—and as the husband of the death unicorn queen, Shance Windkeeper is the perfect prize to go in. But Lurien’s power is stronger and more insidious than they realize. And if the final pieces of her plan fall into place, not even Shance’s newfound Talents and knowledge will be enough to stop her.
A steampunk fantasy adventure with much intrigue, unexpected romance, sudden tragedy, and a snarky cat-dragon.
About the Author
Celebrate the launch of Faithless: The Ironfire Legacy Book 2 with featured author Janeen Ippolito and guest authors Angelique Anderson and R.J. Metcalf! Get your fill of steampunk, dragons, adventures, and more (re: death unicorns and a cat-dragon) with this fun-filled evening that includes giveaways, games, and an exclusive reveal or two. Hosted by Laura A. Grace of Unicorn Quester and Uncommon Universes Press!
Janeen Ippolito believes words transform worlds. She creates writing resources and writes steampunk fantasy. She’s also an experienced teacher, editor, author coach, and the editor in chief of Uncommon Universes Press. In her spare time, she enjoys sword-fighting, reading, food, and making brownie batter. Two of her goals are eating fried tarantulas and traveling to Antarctica. This extroverted writer loves getting connected, so find her on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and at her website: janeenippolito.com
Party Time!
Blog Tour Schedule
Monday, October 8th – Map Monday Spotlight – Becky Gaines Tuesday, October 9th – Spotlight – Letters From Annie (Douglass) Lima Wednesday, October 10th – Character Interview – Jenelle Leanne Schmidt – Guest Post & Interview – TheHufflepuffNerdette Thursday, October 11th – Behind-the-Scenes –The Simmering Mind – Author Interview – Claire M. Banschbach Friday, October 12th – Behind-the-Scenes – Author Katherine A. Massengill Sunday, October 14th – Book Review – Smada’s Book Smack Monday, October 15th – Spotlight – A Hippie’s Bookshelf – Character Interview with Shance – Becky Gaines Tuesday, October 16th – World Building Feature on the Scepter of Knowledge – K.A. Cummins Wednesday, October 17th – Spotlight – The Genre Minx Book Reviews Thursday, October 18th – Behind-the-Scenes – Unicorn Quester Friday, October 19th – World Building Feature on Death Unicorns – C. O. Bonham – Spotlight – YA/NA Book Divas Saturday, October 20th – World Building Feature on Dragons – Empyrean Voyager – Book Review – The Book Unicorn Monday, October 22nd – Book Review – Jessica Rachow: Author & Blogger Tuesday, October 23rd – Behind-the-Scenes – Anna Tan Wednesday, October 24th – Book Review – Anna Tan Thursday, October 25th – Author Interview – Laura VanArendonk Baugh – Book Review – Becky Gaines
Book Tour Grand Finale for
A Great Light
By Jennifer Ball
We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops you can see snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:
Welcome! I’m so excited to bring you my new series “The Kingdom to Come”. This first book “A Great Light” will introduce you to Prince Karhiad, a humble prince next in line to the throne, and his band of close loyal friends who live in the low social status of his kingdom. The crown prince respects his royal family, loves his parents and brother dearly, yet doesn’t align with their views of ruling the kingdom. He appreciates the authenticity that is found in his friends and the lifestyles of the lower and middle class…
This book was inspired by my favorite non-fictional person who was a humble king. Although, he was never a prince and had no royal bloodline, he was (in the plans of God) next in line for the throne — King David. The extreme trials that David faces in his lifetime are so immense, yet he stays faithful to a God he’s never laid eyes on. He never allows his status as king to make him arrogant or materialistic…
“You came out here at night?” she asked with excitement. “Did you see these lit up in the dark?” She held her jar filled with lucent flutters towards him.
“Uh, no. I didn’t see those.”
“What was the woman’s name you met last night? Maybe I know her, although I doubt I do. A Trinicitian woman wouldn’t travel out here at night. We really aren’t supposed to travel outside without a companion anyway. I think I may be the only adventurer,” she said as she got into a standing position.
“I don’t know her name. I didn’t ask. I saw this magnificently beautiful light from my balcony. The curiosity of what it could possibly be drew me out here to find it. But it…” — he looked up towards the sky where he had seen it before — “it was gone.”
In this first book, A Great Light, you are introduced to 3 major kingdoms — Merrhius, Trinicity, and Ananias. There is also a few other minor kingdoms mentioned, however their focus will play out in future books…
“This book is full of fascinating adventure. I like the way Jennifer separates the lands with distinctive differences. They are close in proximity but so far apart in their beliefs and the way they live…
This is an awesome story and I highly recommend it to other readers.”
“Where is Trinicity?” he blurted out. She stopped her antics, and looked up at him. She didn’t respond. “I don’t mean to be intrusive. I was… I was just wondering how long a journey it is for you to get here.”
“Not long.” They kept their deep gaze with one another.
“Do you know…” He stopped, he couldn’t possibly ask, but he just felt so comfortable with her.
“Do I know what?”
“Do you know… why do people say they can’t find it?”
Why do people read fantasy books? Because the human imagination is far more creative, compelling and fascinating than reality. If all books available only had a non-fictional theme, our minds would explode with the constant mental state of reality we’d always be in. Fantasy takes a person, even if for a brief moment, into a realm of excitement at the thought of “Wow, what if…?”…
“Could you ever show me your city?”
“Oh, no! He asked it!” Faith tried not to let her anxious feelings show on her face. Karhiad just longed for this mysterious place so eagerly. He knew this place was real, irrespective of what his father believed. He was confident this fascinating girl he met in the woods wasn’t lying about where she was from. The way she spoke about trivial matters and important issues was so alluring to him. The idea of visiting Trinicity, the place she came from, was very appealing to him. Besides, he never believed it to be a myth, and now eagerly just wanted to see it all with his own eyes.
“Over the time they spend together they share about their homes. How they differ and what they share. They call for each other. Then tragedy stricks. Secrets and lies and manipulation take over…
…I like the story though and am curious what happens next.”
People are drawn to good vs evil because everyone can relate to such a battle. Even if the storyline is fantastical, everyone can relate to one of the characters in the fight. If it isn’t obviously painted out who the villain is and who the hero is, such as in Stars Wars with Darth Vader and Luke Skywalker, then who is good and who is evil can be a matter of opinion. An interesting aspect of good vs evil stories is that it allows the reader/audience to see redemption in someone…
“Rhaevaehyn. Do you know of it?”
“Vaguely. They have a monarchy.”
“Yes. We have a monarchy.” He couldn’t tell by her tone when she said ‘monarchy’ how she felt about royal dynasties. He wasn’t sure if he should follow his statement by telling her he was a prince in his kingdom. He didn’t want to appear as if he was boasting. Besides, he was still a little shocked they had never even discussed where he was from until now.
“I know.” Faith’s lack of interest let him know that this actually was not the right time to let her know his inheritance.
“An old man in my city died this morning,” Faith said as she and Karhiad stacked twigs and leaves up into a pile. They wanted to see who could start a fire first without the common essentials needed to cause a spark.
“I’m sorry. Did you know him?” Karhiad wasn’t sure what level of comfort to provide her yet, so he kept gathering the driest leaves he could find.
“Yes. He was an elder that I would deliver dinner to.”
√ Don’t fear anything… ever
√ Loyal friends in my circle who value me unconditionally
√ Physically train harder than what is expected of me as the prince
“I enjoyed this Christian Fantasy. Prince Karhiad is lead to Faith by a light. She was my favorite character of the book. The story is full of inspiration with the battles of good versus evil.”
“So, um, where…” She was eager to change the subject. “Where else have you traveled? Do you journey outside your kingdom walls often? Have you met people from different cultures?”
“I’ve traveled many miles on the outer stretches of my kingdom. It was part of my training to know all the terrain. The most interesting culture I’ve encountered would have to be those living in Ananias. They don’t have walls, so I guess they are considered just a village.”
“Oh, yes. I’ve read about them. How did you find them?”
“I don’t know the details of it. When I was a young adolescent, there was a man in our military who said he found a unique culture and wanted us all to meet them. My father took me out with him and the rest of the traveling troops to encounter them.”
“Jennifer Ball does a fantastic job of painting this world with compelling characters and vivid colors. There is some very lovely prose to immerse the reader into Karhiad and Faith’s worlds. The writing style harkens to Robin McKinley’s and other epic fantasy authors. Some readers may be put off by the heavier religious elements, but fans of more allegorical works like C.S. Lewis and Anne Elisabeth Stengl will love the message of faith behind The Kingdom to Come.”
Don’t forget to enter the giveaway below, if you haven’t already…
A Great Light
Young Adult Christian Fantasy
Paperback & ebook, 298 Pages
June 28th 2018 by Revelation Publishing Company
Love and war are often the same thing.
Prince Karhiad is a humble king-in-waiting. His father, King Vilsig, rules the Kingdom of Merrhius with an iron fist. While the king dreams of endless conquests, his son only wants to conquer the hearts of his subjects through love instead of fear.
Meanwhile, a dark and sinister force threatens every kingdom around. And if King Vilsig and Prince Karhiad can’t put aside their differences, an ancient sinister beast and his supernatural army will lay waste to the Kingdom of Merrhius.
On the night of Prince Karhiad’s 17th birthday, he is mesmerized by a radiant light and makes a decision to learn of its origin. That choice will force him towards answers he wasn’t seeking, a woman he wasn’t planning to fall in love with, and a destiny that will bring him great suffering yet an even greater reward. But in this gripping tale of good vs. evil, the power of love isn’t just a shield to ward off the darkness — it’s also the strongest weapon of all.
I am a friend of Jesus who at times fails at making this is my most important relationship. I am a wife who forgets at times this is my primary job. I am a mom who at times didn’t get it right. I take lots of pictures that annoy everyone in my family except for my dog. She loves it.
I began writing short stories when I was a child. I would sit in my room for hours writing as fast as I could to keep up with my thoughts. We didn’t have a typewriter and certainly no computer. Too often my writing would turn to scribble. I ended up with lots of loose paper with many short stories written on them in half scribble that made it too difficult for others to read. Thanks to technology, I went back to my childhood passion and wrote a story that I turned into a readable book.
That’s me, to make a long story short.
Tour Giveaway
– 1 winner will receive a $20 Amazon eGift Card
– Open internationally
– Ends September 19th
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: Kandi J Wyatt
Title of book and/or series: An Unexpected Adventure, book 1 of Myth Coast Adventures trilogy
Brief summary of the story: When four eighth graders discover a dragon’s egg, they must choose between protecting their treasure from the NSA or protecting their town from a growing dragon!
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story: The story takes place in modern-day in a fictionalized town on the Southern Oregon Coast called Myrtle Beach. It’s rural America at its best.
If we were to visit Myrtle Beach as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there? Well, since Myrtle Beach is so small, you’d not want to blink or you may pass it without realizing it. First off, you will want to slow down as you go through town. Being right on the highway, it’s easy to zip through town, but officers have been known to patrol, so be careful and do observe the speed limit.
Second, you’ll want to wave at people who wave to you. Yep, it’s that kind of a small town where everyone knows everyone and a friendly hi is acknowledged. People will notice you’re a stranger, and they’ll want to know where you’re from. Be polite and kind in response.
For a day of fun in Myrtle Beach, start up Myrtle Mountain and watch the sunrise at Camp Pinewood. Maybe even come during July when there are camps in progress. Then carefully come down the mountain—you don’t want to run into any livestock trucks on the windy road. Next make a stop at Myrtle Creek Coffee and pick up a chai latte, hot cocoa, or coffee, whichever is your flavor for a hot drink. Take your drink with you down to the docks and visit Carl’s Crab Shack. You may run into Will, unless he’s out on one of the boats. He may be willing to take you deep sea fishing or crabbing. If you don’t get out on the ocean, be sure to swing by and see the lighthouse. It’s no longer functioning, but the historical society keeps it maintained. About lunch time, head to the market and be sure to grab their turkey sandwich with homemade mustard and pickles. If turkey’s not your favorite, go for their famous hot dogs. You can either eat it there at the deli tables or take it to-go and head either to the beach or Myrtle Lake. If you have more time to spend in the area, go south about an hour and enjoy a trip up the river on a jet boat. It’s a tradition for the eighth grade class to take a fieldtrip at the end of the year and ride the boats.
What dangers should we avoid in Myrtle Beach? Probably your biggest threat would be the tourists, oh wait, did I say that? Sorry, really Myrtle Beach is the best little town because there are no real dangers. If you go out of town and up the mountains cougars, coyotes, and bears roam and often prey on the livestock, but that’s really it.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in Myrtle Beach? Not unless you make a stop at the restaurant or the market. The market sells wonderful sandwiches with a homemade, spicy mustard that’s delicious. The restaurant has wonderful tacos, pizza, and a breakfast selection.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Myrtle Beach? There’s nothing special as far as fighting or weaponry. Most farmers own shotguns and hunting rifles, and every so often will threaten trespassers with them.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Myrtle Beach? If anything, technology can be limited in Myrtle Beach. Cell service is sketchy up the mountains, and most homes have landlines as well as cells. Internet has reached the area and kids use instagram and other social media sites.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Myrtle Beach that we don’t see on Earth? Well, the kids go looking for thundereggs. No, that’s not where Thunderbirds come from. They’re the state rock. They look like eggs, but when you crack them open they’re hollow and have gems inside of them—usually just crystals.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Myrtle Beach? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used. Up until just recently, the residents of Myrtle Beach would say magic was for fantasy books, and the supernatural was only seen in answers to prayers. However, over the last month or so, some strange things have been happening. The kids discovered a dragon egg that somehow came through a time-space continuum. Just imagine what kind of havoc a grown dragon could have on sheep and cattle ranches in the area!
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in Myrtle Beach? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples. Up until Harley met Professor Raleigh, there was no unusual technology, but the professor has a gun that shoots a sticky web to ensnare his prey.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Myrtle Beach. Harley plays both soccer and track. His friend, Chase, goes hunting all year round, while Will works at the crab shack and loves to fish. Some kids at school know how to wind surf and enjoy that out on Myrtle Lake, and others surf in the ocean in the town south of Myrtle Beach. If you’re in the area in the summer, you may be able to go hear a band perform at the Skillet Restaurant.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Myrtle Beach as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there? Yep, everything is the same there. The big celebration is the 4th of July. It starts with a parade, dinghy race, barbeque in the town square, and beach volleyball in the afternoon. The final event is the fireworks show which lasts for a whole hour and explodes over the ocean.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Myrtle Beach? Please describe what it involves. Just like everywhere in the United States there are various religions. There’s only one church in town, and the pastor often jokes that he’s the best preacher in town, since he’s the only one.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book? Myrtle Beach is inspired by my own town of Langlois, Oregon. The characters came from students at the school where I work. Several of them didn’t like to read or would avoid it if at all possible. So, I wondered if they’d read if I wrote them into a story. They’ve promised me they just may read it.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book? None in this book, but book 2 has one of the main characters worrying about her parents’ health. If anything, the fact that a teenager carries a gun could be considered controversial, but it is very much rural America, and I wanted to stay true to that.
Author Autobiography: Even as a young girl, Kandi J Wyatt, had a knack for words. She loved to read them, even if it was on a shampoo bottle! By high school Kandi had learned to put words together on paper to create stories for those she loved. Nowadays, she writes for her kids, whether that’s her own five or the hundreds of students she’s been lucky to teach. When Kandi’s not spinning words to create stories, she’s using them to teach students about Spanish, life, and leadership.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? Please include links. My books are available in all formats (paperback, ebook, and audiobook for the first three of the Dragon Courage series).
Dragon Courage Series
Biblical Retellings:
Where can readers connect with you online?
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Myrtle Beach. 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 another world in next week’s edition of Realm Explorers!
-Annie Douglass Lima
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About the Book
One misfit. One prophecy. Two worlds. Being different is bad until you find out it’s the only thing that might save you.
How far would you go to fit in? Another world?
Fifteen-year-old Nova Hawthorne has a unique trait that sets her apart, yet she wants nothing more than to be normal and fit in.
She soon finds out that there’s a very real reason why she feels so out of place in this world—she’s from another one. And prophecy says she is destined to destroy them both.
Armed only with a magic she does not yet understand and the synesthesia no one else does, she must race to figure out how to stop prophecy from unfolding, find a father she’s never met and discover who she really is. Is it truly our differences that make us who we are? How can you be strong when you’re broken? And what happens when your actions bring about the very destruction you’ve been fighting to prevent?
Purchase on Amazon: http://bit.ly/ChildOfProphecyB1
About the Author
Tracy is a writer, singer-songwriter, cancer survivor and proud wife and mother. Born and raised in Central New York, she will tell you that her parents gave her the two best tools in her arsenal by reading to her and raising her in a Christian household. In spite of the long Central NY winters she continues to live there with the husband that God created just for her, and the son who is her forever best story. In her heart, she feels that her gift of writing is a little piece of magic, and that it is both her privilege and grandest adventure to find new ways to stretch a hand out to touch the wonder of this vast universe God created.
Giveaway
T.E. Bradford has a great giveaway! There are two notebooks, a Jade Dragon, a pack of pens, two books, and a mermaid. And that’s just for the grand prize! We also have a bonus prize of a $10 Amazon gift card. Make sure you enter below or at this link.
Excerpt
“The only reason she came here was because she thought everyone else would be in danger. Her mom, her grandpa … me …” He took a deep breath. “She’s got more guts than most people I know. She just doesn’t know it yet.”
Tour Schedule
September 13
September 14
September 15
September 17
September 18
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:
Melissa Wright
Title of book and/or series:
Queen of Iron and Blood (Shattered Realms book two) (Book 1 is FREE! Scroll to the bottom to see how to get a copy! There’s also a giveaway where you can win a fun pack of survival gear!)
Brief summary of the story:
Mackenzie Scott is trapped in another realm, but that’s the least of her problems. Magic runs through her veins, and even now she can feel herself changing. Worse, Mackenzie’s not just a monster. She’s their queen.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
The dying lands exist in another realm, subsisting on the energy it reaps from Earth. It is inhabited by creatures known as Iron Bound, who subsist on that energy as well.
If we were to visit the dying lands as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
I would not recommend touring the dying lands, but if you were brought over against your will, the outer forests are lovely.
What dangers should we avoid in the dying lands?
The creatures of the dying lands are highly dangerous, but their king is especially deadly.
Is there a distinct or unusual type of food or meal that we might be served in the dying lands?
Every being in the dying lands relies on the realm’s energy to sustain themselves. Creatures in the dying lands do not eat—if they kill something, it’s not because they intend it as food.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in the dying lands?
Most weapons are fashioned from wood or stone, though much of the fighting is done by hand. Those who have the talent have been known to use the energy of the realm to destroy their foes.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to the dying lands?
The dying lands are void of technology and metals, but it is a realm flush with beasts both on land and in the air. Many of these creatures could be used for transport, but the stronger of the Iron Bound have the ability to fly.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in the dying lands that we don’t see on Earth?
The Iron Bound are a race of chimeras, each varied and unique, though many resemble a patchwork of creatures akin to those on Earth. In addition to stealing this realm’s energy, the Iron Bound also bring over flora, which transforms into something otherworldly when exposed to the dying lands power.
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in the dying lands? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
Magic comes in the form of energy, coursing through the realm and feeding all those who dwell within. It transforms every being it touches, giving them the power to manipulate the atmosphere in small ways—like the ability to lift their own body into the air to fly.
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in the dying lands as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
The dying lands operates on cycles, not years. And every 2,000 cycles, the gateway between realms aligns to allow the reaping: a culling of energy from Earth to recharge the dying lands.
What is the political or government structure in the dying lands? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
The dying lands is ruled by a single king, one who is powerful enough to open the gateway between realms and draw the energy through. He must protect the reaping at all costs, and he is responsible for keeping the realm’s legends in the hearts and minds of his people.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
Travel is a wonderful tool for writers, and I definitely drew on inspiration from jungle flora and rock formations I’ve seen through mine. In addition to scenery, I did try to bring the terror of being caught in a storm and the horrible aftermath of that into the inciting event of book one.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
I’m not big on purposefully adding controversial topics into my work, but there’s definitely an element of protecting our planet beneath the plot of this series. I think there’s also a theme of unity, because when the world is attacked, we are no longer this country or that. We are humans. Together.
Melissa is the author of the Frey Saga, Descendants Series, and Shattered Realms. She is currently working on the next book, but when not writing can be spotted collecting the things she loves at Goodreads and Pinterest. Contact her through the web at
www.melissa-wright.comWhere, and in what formats, can we purchase your books?
Queen of Iron and Blood is available in eBook and print.
Where can readers connect with you online?
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to the dying lands. 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 another world in next week’s edition of Realm Explorers!
-Annie Douglass Lima
Other Books in the Series
King of Ash and Bone (Shattered Realms #1) By Melissa Wright YA, NA Urban Fantasy, SciFi Paperback & ebook, 216 Pages February 2nd 2015
When flying monsters break through the veil into her world, Mackenzie Scott has nothing left to lose. Her brother has been taken, her future has vanished, and all that remains is a desperate need for revenge. After discovering the breach the creatures used as a gateway, Mackenzie devises a plan to stop them, whatever the cost.
When she finds an injured stranger in the street, he just might be the key she needs to succeed. What Mackenzie doesn’t know is that this stranger isn’t the helpless boy he appears to be. He’s one of the monsters. And he’s got plans of his own.
Thrown into a dying city in another realm, Mackenzie is powerless to get back. With the gateway closing, time is not on her side. But the stranger is, and if they can escape execution, this girl and her monster might be able to save both their worlds.
Tour Schedule
August 20th:
It’s All About the Romance
SilverWoodSketches
An Indie Adventure
Mythical Books
August 21st:
Declarations of a Fangirl
My Life, Loves and Passion
Letters from Annie (Douglass) Lima
August 22nd:
Andi’s Young Adult Books
Wishful Endings
Angel’s Guilty Pleasures
August 23rd:
Reading On The Edge
Getting Your Read On
Colorimetry
August 24th:
Stacking My Book Shelves!
Nicole’s Book Musings
August 25th:
Grand Finale
Tour Giveaway
1 winner will receive an awesome prize pack with “survival” gear: print copies of The 5th Wave by Rick Yancey, Angelfall by Susan Ee, and King of Ash and Bone by Melissa Wright, plus Be Your Own Hero bracelet, lip balm, compass, playing cards, emergency blanket, and other fun stuff
US only
Ends August 29th
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Welcome to the Book Blitz for
The Blood Race Series
By K.A. Emmons
Check out snippets from the month-long tour and enter the giveaway below…
The Blood Race
(The Blood Race #1)
By K.A. Emmons
YA SciFi, Fantasy
Paperback & ebook, 321 Pages
July 27th 2017
All Ion Jacobs ever wanted was to be normal. But when you’re capable of killing with your very thoughts, it’s hard to blend in with the crowd.
Running from his past and living in fear of being discovered, Ion knows he will never be an average college student. But when Hawk, the beautiful, mysterious girl next door unearths his darkest secret, Ion’s life is flipped upside-down. He’s shocked to discover a whole world of people just like him — a world in another dimension, where things like levitation, shape-shifting, and immortality are not only possible… they’re normal.
Forced to keep more secrets than ever before, Ion struggles to control his powers in the real world while commuting between realms — until his arch enemy starts a fight he can’t escape. Now he has sealed the fate of the Dimension, severing their connection to the real world, and locking himself inside forever. But a deadly threat hidden in plain sight may cost Ion more than just his freedom — it may cost him his life.
The Blood Race is the first book in K.A. Emmons’ riveting new sci-fi/fantasy thriller series. If you like epic urban fantasy, fresh takes on super powers, deep allegories, raw emotions and intricate plots that surprise you at every turn, you’ll love the first novel in Emmons’ page-turning series. Grab your copy of The Blood Race and delve into a new dimension today!
Worlds Beneath
(The Blood Race #2)
By K.A. Emmons
YA SciFi, Fantasy
Paperback & ebook, 333 Pages
July 1st 2018
I used to think that seeing was believing, but now, as I struggle to stay alive below the ravine, I begin to realize that – good or bad – I will see whatever I believe.
“Who are you, Icarus, that the earth opens its mouth to receive your blood?” Sensei’s words were my last thoughts before I fell into the bottomless ravine, plunging toward my own death, and bringing about Hawk’s at the same time. Or so I thought.
I woke up underwater. I awoke in a strange and unfamiliar world, filled with maze-like forest, shadows, and nightmares seemingly as vivid and dangerous as reality. I had no idea who I was, or how I got there – I couldn’t remember anything, until I remembered her: Hawk. The other half of my soul.
I knew that in order for her to stay alive, I had to survive and find a way out. But that’s easier said than done when you’re trapped in a realm as deadly as your every thought – and dominated by a hierarchy of ravenous wolf packs.
Alerted by a dream, I realize that Hawk has left the Dimension to come find me. For an instant, I rediscover hope. But that hope quickly burns to ash when I realize that we may not be the only ones down here. Someone else with a thirst for her blood may have survived the fall too. And I may have just lured her right into the jaws of a predator even fiercer than the wolves.
If the characters of The Blood Race trilogy could jump into any other fictional world, where would they go? Oh, hands down Narnia. Because that’s where I’m trying to “jump into” every day of the week, yo. I’m still checking those closets.
#5 JUST DO IT. so many of us spend a heck of a lot of time, debating about whether we should write a book, thinking about how we would write it, wondering if we’re good enough, or psychoanalyzing every single detail.
“Worlds Beneath is a captivating novel that pulls the reader in from the first page.”
CAN I JUST GUSH ABOUT THIS GORGEOUS COVER??? I MEAN. LOOK AT IT.
J
uly 7: Book Review of World’s Beneath at Inkwell
“What made the second installment in The Blood Race series so incredibly amazing was THE CHARACTERS.”
Kate: “…we are NOT the things that have happened to us. We are not our pasts. Letting go is hard, but one of the most important things you will ever do.”
I’m also a surfer, karate enthusiast, and military wife.
Each time I sit down at the desk in the morning with my cup of coffee, I don’t have a map or a plan, or a binder full of notes…
“The ending, in typical Kate style, KILLED ME, and I am already counting down the days until Book 3 comes into the world.”
“It’s deep. It’s full of powerful themes, breathtakingly complex characters, and intense twists and turns that had me on the edge of my seat. If you want something emotional, gritty, fantastical, fast-paced, and theme-focused, I highly recommend The Blood Race!”
Be the lighthouse on the cold and craggy isle, flickering vanilla beams into the billows of the storm.
“Kate has a way with describing scenes that makes one feel like they’re in it without being too wordy.”
Write about the things that make your soul hum.
July 23: Book Review of World’s Beneath on PoeTree
“The plot is brilliantly woven and full of vibrant, real characters with wonderful depth and raw emotion. Amid the tense action, thought-provoking dialogue and text often had me slowing down to savor the book.”
The sheer joy I get when I sit down in the morning with a cup of coffee to write is immeasurable. And that’s my favorite part of writing.
My writing zone at the moment is being lost in my head in my cozy, colorfully painted office, with coffee and a soundtrack of Vermont rainfall pattering against my window.
“There were so many unique and such fierce characters. I especially loved Icarus, Hawk, and Fin. They had so much depth! I loved watching the growth and maturity that happens in this novel…”
“The character development, the fascinating originality of the Dimension, the Christian allegory woven through, it was really good.”
July 31: Book Review of The Blood Race and Author Interview at Oh So Priceless
“The concept is completely original and you’re immediately drawn in and enthralled by the story. I started reading it and I just could not put it down!”
About the Author
When she’s not hermiting away in her colorfully-painted home office writing her next science fiction, passionate story-teller and adventurer Kate Emmons is probably on the road for a surf or hiking trip, listening to vinyls, or going for a power run. Emmons’ debut novel The Blood Race is the first book in her YA science fiction/fantasy thriller series. Get connected with Kate on your favorite social platform, and be sure to check out http://kaemmons.com/.
Blitz Giveaway
– 3 winners will win an ebook of THE BLOOD RACE
– Open internationally
– Ends August 19th
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Welcome to the Cover Reveal for
Queen of Iron and Blood
By Melissa Wright
This YA/NA Urban Fantasy is the second book in her Shattered Realms Series.
Coming August 20th 2018…
The storm was only the beginning…
Mackenzie Scott is trapped in another realm, but that’s the least of her problems. Magic runs through her veins, and even now she can feel herself changing. She’s managed to help her brother, but in exchange, she’s turning into one of them. Worse, Mackenzie’s not just a monster. She’s their queen.
Hunter had one job: open the gateway between worlds to keep his realm alive. He hadn’t counted on betrayal. He hadn’t counted on being saved by a human girl. And he’d never guessed he couldn’t trust his own king. Now he’s trapped in a world to which he can never truly belong.
Separated by realms, Mackenzie and Hunter must save the other’s world. But the divide isn’t the only thing working against them. Beasts and men fight a dangerous battle that pits Hunter and Mackenzie against those they’re trying to protect.
And the clock is ticking.
Other Books in the Series
King of Ash and Bone (Shattered Realms #1) By Melissa Wright YA, NA Urban Fantasy, SciFi Paperback & ebook, 216 Pages February 2nd 2015
When flying monsters break through the veil into her world, Mackenzie Scott has nothing left to lose. Her brother has been taken, her future has vanished, and all that remains is a desperate need for revenge. After discovering the breach the creatures used as a gateway, Mackenzie devises a plan to stop them, whatever the cost.
When she finds an injured stranger in the street, he just might be the key she needs to succeed. What Mackenzie doesn’t know is that this stranger isn’t the helpless boy he appears to be. He’s one of the monsters. And he’s got plans of his own.
Thrown into a dying city in another realm, Mackenzie is powerless to get back. With the gateway closing, time is not on her side. But the stranger is, and if they can escape execution, this girl and her monster might be able to save both their worlds.
Upcoming Book Tour
About the Author
Melissa Wright is the author of the Frey Saga, Descendants Series, and Shattered Realms Series. She is currently working on the next book, but when not writing can be found collecting the things she loves at Goodreads and Pinterest. Contact her through the web at www.melissa-wright.com.
Cover Reveal Giveaway
1 winner will receive a $10 Amazon eGift Card
Open internationally
Ends July 27th
a Rafflecopter giveaway
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:
Krista Wagner
Title of book and/or series:
The Magical Forest Series
Brief summary of the story:
Abused by his father and mistreated by his teachers, resentful teenager Shane’s cynical worldview is challenged when he stumbles upon a hidden portal. On the other side, he finds a forest that transcends time, the very same forest he used to bully his fifth-grade classmate, Amanda, for believing it was real.
Transported back into his own childhood, Shane discovers a talking pebble that is willing to guide him. However, the forest is reluctant to give up its secrets, and Shane finds he must turn to the very girl he once bullied for help. The forest offers Shane his only chance to escape from his miserable life, if only he can overcome the pang of the past to embrace this new future.
Brief description of the world or location you created for this story:
A woodland with forest animals that are friendly, a place touched by magic and weather that the surrounding world is unaffected by.
If we were to visit Sagle as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?To allow yourself to be enchanted by the forest and get to know Amanda and Shane, who can show you a place that will open your heart to wonderful things like healing.
What dangers should we avoid in Sagle?
Your own fears.
What types of weaponry or fighting styles are common in Sagle?
The standard fistfights one might see in school, though they are rare.
What types of vehicles, animals, technology, etc. are used to travel in or to Sagle?
The ability to time travel.
What types of plants, animals, or sentient races might we encounter in Sagle that we don’t see on Earth?
A talking pebble, dragons, fairies, and unicorns
What role, if any, does magic or the supernatural play in the lives of people in Sagle? If there is magic, please give some examples of what it involves or how it’s used.
When a teenager encounters the forest, time sweeps across this universe, transporting them to an earlier point in childhood and bringing them to confront something long lost.
Is there any advanced or unusual technology in Sagle? If you haven’t described it already, please give some examples.
Technology is unimportant in this world. What matters is the construct of time and how precise and precious it is.
Tell us about any sports, games, or activities that are available for entertainment in Sagle.
1. Frisbee
2. Pogo Bounce Ball
3. Drive-in Movie Theatre
Are the days of the week and months of the year the same in Sagle as on Earth? What holidays or special events are celebrated regularly there?
Yes. However, there are some points in time that are accelerated and some that are reversed.
All major US holidays are celebrated.
Is there a particular religion practiced in Sagle? Please describe what it involves.
Christianity. Believing in Jesus as one’s Savior and citing the Bible for words of wisdom.
What is the political or government structure in Sagle? Who is in charge there at the moment, and what kind of leader is he/she?
The government is much like the US Democratic Republic—the promotion of freedom of choice.
Are there any other unique cultural practices that we should be aware of if we visit Sagle?
Aside from the intrigue of the forest, no.
Has anything in your actual life inspired the locations, cultures, etc. in your book?
My visit to see my Aunt in Sagle multiple times has influenced my desire to create a setting in that world where people literally live in homes in the forest.
What, if any, “hot-button” or controversial topics do you touch on in your book?
A heavy topic dealt with is parental abuse and alcoholism.
Author Autobiography:
Krista Wagner is a 70’s product best known for her spiritual suspense and fictional realism. In addition to being a recipient of the Reader’s Favorite 5-star seal, she has been praised by award-winning screenwriter Sean Paul Murphy for her writing skill and strong plotting. Wagner holds an MFA in Creative Writing and is an English associate instructor with an indispensable faith in Christ.
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? Please include links.Where can readers connect with you online?
kristawagner.wixsite.com/author/bio
Follow her on Facebook: facebook.com/kristawagnerofficial/
Twitter:twitter.com/IntentBook04
Goodreads:https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8509957.Krista_Wagner
I hope you all enjoyed the trip to Sagle. 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 another world in next week’s edition of Realm Explorers!
-Annie Douglass Lima
Hi,
I’m fantasy author Sarah Ashwood, and I have a confession to make: I’ve only written a couple of blog posts before, so please bear with me as we go through this. When Annie kindly offered a spot on her blog for me to chat about my new book, I struggled with what to say. Of course, I could try to tell you the plot without giving away spoilers. (Unless you happen to be like me and actually like spoilers. I admit it, I’m that person—that horrible person who loves spoilers! I always read the end of the book before I reach it to see what happens.) Confessions aside, it was suggested I highlight what’s unique about this book and hopefully makes it stand out in the fantasy genre, so let me go there. To begin with, Aerisian Refrain is the first book in a brand new series called Beyond the Sunset Lands. It’s a planned four book series, and it’s a companion series to my Sunset Lands Beyond trilogy. It’s set in the same world, Aerisia, which Annie has already featured on Realm Explorers.
You don’t actually have to have read the first trilogy to read Aerisian Refrain. I tried to include enough information in Aerisian Refrain that readers new to my world wouldn’t be lost. So, these books, the first trilogy and this new series, are epic fantasy and portal fantasy, but they’re also heavily tinged with a fairytale influence, because I grew up on fairytales and still love them. You’ll meet characters and races in my books that you may not see as much in standard epic fantasy, like fairies and giants and unicorns. I enjoy mixing it up: I also have pirates based off 18th century buccaneers, as well as an army patterned after the military of ancient Rome. (Ancient Rome is another obsession of mine.)
Those are some of the fun features of my world building. As for Aerisian Refrain itself, what makes this particular book unique is that my MC, Annie Richards, is from Oklahoma and is part Cherokee. I’m a lifelong Okie myself, and grew up in the part of the state where the Cherokees have their capital. I’ve always been intrigued by Cherokee history and culture. I didn’t actually set Annie where I’m from, however. I had her grow up out in the panhandle of Oklahoma, which is sparsely populated. I’ve driven through there a couple of times, and thought it was such a wild, beautiful place. It was very inspiring to the background of this book, and formative to Annie’s character. Now, Native Americans are not heavily featured in epic fantasy literature or art, the latter of which was a little frustrating when I was writing this book. I like to create Pinterest boards for each of my books and save pins for characters that I find inspirational. It drove me crazy that I had such a difficult time finding any epic-fantasy-type art featuring Native Americans. I wanted so badly to find a picture of a Native American girl with a dragon, and never did. One of my favorite scenes of Aerisian Refrain is where Annie sings a Cherokee lullaby to a dragon. I would’ve loved a pin that resembled this scene in any way. Couldn’t find it, but in my searching I ultimately did discover the art of Traci Rabbit, a Cherokee artist from Oklahoma. That’s a whole ‘nother story, but I mention it because I fell deeply in love with Ms. Rabbit’s work, with its blend of heritage and fantasy, and I think it’s well worth mentioning.
But back to what I was saying. When I realized in the course of plotting that Annie was going to be from Oklahoma and that she was part Cherokee, I knew I had to delve into Cherokee culture and heritage and weave elements of that into my book. Cherokee mythology and folklore are chalk full of interesting characters and stories. Honestly, it was very hard to narrow them down, but I finally settled on three prominent figures that absolutely fascinated me. The first was a Kâ’lanû Ahkyeli’skï: a Raven Mocker. This creature is scary. I mean, scary. I read up on stories about Raven Mockers that had me looking over my shoulder at night. (I get spooked easily.) Check out this moment from Aerisian Refrain when Annie first encounters the Kâ’lanû Ahkyeli’skï :
I would’ve run, but where could I go? There were probably still people on the road, people to whom I couldn’t risk leading the Raven Mocker, a creature so powerful that, according to the Cherokee legends I’d heard, other witches flee before their kind. The raven-like cry of a Kâ’lanû Ahkyeli’skï, which is where the Raven Mocker earns its name, means someone is going to die—much like banshees in Irish folklore. Often, they appear when a person is dying to steal and consume the liver or the heart. Sometimes they torture and kill their victim by cutting open the head, then eating the heart. A year is added to their life for every year their victim would have lived, making a Raven Mocker almost immortal, and accounting for their appearance as an old, wizened man or woman when in human form. They can fly through the air in fiery bird shape, trailing sparks while in the sky, which is what confirmed the identity of the woman standing in front of me. They are usually invisible, except to the most powerful of magic workers. Like me. Only a medicine man or woman of much training and strength can stand against them, which meant I was in serious danger.
The other two characters I chose to feature are a little more benevolent. One group are the Thunderers, who Cherokee believe are storm spirits that live in the sky. Thunderers are usually benevolent to humans, and sometimes even helpful. The same with the last figure from Cherokee folklore, a Stoneclad, or rock giant. I loved the Stoneclad. He almost made me think of a Marvel character. There weren’t tons of descriptions of Stoneclads, but most of my research indicated they are giants that wear a suit of armor fashioned from stone. Like the Thunderers, they aren’t feared by the Cherokee—certainly not like the Raven Mockers. In fact, there are stories of them coming to the aid of the Cherokee. As Annie explains in Aerisian Refrain when she’s discussing her people’s folklore,
“I remember Grandma telling me about the Stoneclads: rock giants, and the Aniyvdaqualosgi or Ani-Yuntikwalaski. Those are the Thunderers, or powerful storm spirits. If they took a shape, it was usually human, and they were okay with people. I guess it’s no wonder we’d have legends about great storm spirits, living in Tornado Alley.”
At this point in the book, Annie has no idea she’s going to actually encounter rock giants or storm spirits, and she’s in a for a big surprise when she does! <!– /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:Calibri; panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4; mso-font-alt:Arial; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:roman; mso-font-format:other; mso-font-pitch:auto; mso-font-signature:0 0 0 0 0 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-unhide:no; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; margin-top:0in; margin-right:0in; margin-bottom:8.0pt; margin-left:0in; line-height:107%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {mso-style-priority:99; color:#0563C1; mso-themecolor:hyperlink; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; color:#954F72; mso-themecolor:followedhyperlink; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} .MsoChpDefault {mso-style-type:export-only; mso-default-props:yes; font-size:11.0pt; mso-ansi-font-size:11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} .MsoPapDefault {mso-style-type:export-only; margin-bottom:8.0pt; line-height:107%;} @page WordSection1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.WordSection1 {page:WordSection1;}
Thanks for reading my blog post and giving me a little of your time. Have a great day!
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Find Aerisian Refrain on Amazon and Goodreads. It’s on sale for just 99 cents at the moment!
One wild night, Shance Windkeeper discovers he is married to a death unicorn. But that’s the least of his troubles. As an agent for the Lawless, Shance is working with dragonshifters Kesia Ironfire and Zephryn Nightstalker, trying to end the dragon-human war and the organization that masterminded it. While on a mission in the Scepter of Knowledge, the Lawless is hit with a devastating death unicorn attack. Out of the wreckage new allies emerge: Lirome Ukerys, and his twin sister Maira, the death unicorn queen—Shance’s long-lost wife. Recently freed from captivity, Maira is fighting to regain control of her herd. Lurien Alistil, a rogue death unicorn, has bespelled the Scepter of Knowledge and taken Maira’s son. When Kesia unexpectedly challenges Lurien to a public debate, the Lawless has a chance to break the usurper’s hold. To obtain vital information they must infiltrate her lair—and as the husband of the death unicorn queen, Shance Windkeeper is the perfect prize to go in. But Lurien’s power is stronger and more insidious than they realize. And if the final pieces of her plan fall into place, not even Shance’s newfound Talents and knowledge will be enough to stop her.
A Great Light
If we were to visit Myrtle Beach as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there? Well, since Myrtle Beach is so small, you’d not want to blink or you may pass it without realizing it. First off, you will want to slow down as you go through town. Being right on the highway, it’s easy to zip through town, but officers have been known to patrol, so be careful and do observe the speed limit.
For a day of fun in Myrtle Beach, start up Myrtle Mountain and watch the sunrise at Camp Pinewood. Maybe even come during July when there are camps in progress. Then carefully come down the mountain—you don’t want to run into any livestock trucks on the windy road. Next make a stop at Myrtle Creek Coffee and pick up a chai latte, hot cocoa, or coffee, whichever is your flavor for a hot drink. Take your drink with you down to the docks and visit Carl’s Crab Shack. You may run into Will, unless he’s out on one of the boats. He may be willing to take you deep sea fishing or crabbing. If you don’t get out on the ocean, be sure to swing by and see the lighthouse. It’s no longer functioning, but the historical society keeps it maintained. About lunch time, head to the market and be sure to grab their turkey sandwich with homemade mustard and pickles. If turkey’s not your favorite, go for their famous hot dogs. You can either eat it there at the deli tables or take it to-go and head either to the beach or Myrtle Lake. If you have more time to spend in the area, go south about an hour and enjoy a trip up the river on a jet boat. It’s a tradition for the eighth grade class to take a fieldtrip at the end of the year and ride the boats.
King of Ash and Bone (Shattered Realms #1) By Melissa Wright YA, NA Urban Fantasy, SciFi Paperback & ebook, 216 Pages February 2nd 2015 
The Blood Race
Worlds Beneath
#5 JUST DO IT. so many of us spend a heck of a lot of time, debating about whether we should write a book, thinking about how we would write it, wondering if we’re good enough, or psychoanalyzing every single detail.
If we were to visit Sagle as tourists, what would you recommend that we see or do there?
Where, and in what formats, can we purchase your book(s)? Please include links.
I’m fantasy author Sarah Ashwood, and I have a confession to make: I’ve only written a couple of blog posts before, so please bear with me as we go through this. When Annie kindly offered a spot on her blog for me to chat about my new book, I struggled with what to say. Of course, I could try to tell you the plot without giving away spoilers. (Unless you happen to be like me and actually like spoilers. I admit it, I’m that person—that horrible person who loves spoilers! I always read the end of the book before I reach it to see what happens.) Confessions aside, it was suggested I highlight what’s unique about this book and hopefully makes it stand out in the fantasy genre, so let me go there. 
Those are some of the fun features of my world building. As for Aerisian Refrain itself, what makes this particular book unique is that my MC, Annie Richards, is from Oklahoma and is part Cherokee. I’m a lifelong Okie myself, and grew up in the part of the state where the Cherokees have their capital. I’ve always been intrigued by Cherokee history and culture. I didn’t actually set Annie where I’m from, however. I had her grow up out in the panhandle of Oklahoma, which is sparsely populated. I’ve driven through there a couple of times, and thought it was such a wild, beautiful place. It was very inspiring to the background of this book, and formative to Annie’s character. 
At this point in the book, Annie has no idea she’s going to actually encounter rock giants or storm spirits, and she’s in a for a big surprise when she does!