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Author Spotlight, Books, New Releases, Solstice Publishing

Author Spotlight: Cozy Mystery Author Lois Crockett

Posted on January 27, 2017 by Debbie

Welcome to the Literary Library Lounge where I interview fellow authors. Today, I am chatting with Lois Crockett from Coconut Creek, Florida.

Thanks for joining us, Lois Please take a seat and make yourself comfortable.

I understand you have a new release coming out today, January 27, 2017. Congratulations! Please tell us a bit about it.

Tough Luck Lane is my debut novel from Solstice Publishing. It is a Cozy Mystery, the first in a series about bartender and all-purpose drunk wrangler Stacey Jennifer Longacre and her quirky compadres in the Key West-style Compound where she lives in Pompano Beach, Florida. New to the area from her beginnings in Lake Okeechobee – she was born in a trailer off Tough Luck Lane – she lands a job as a cocktail waitress in a dubious nightclub where unsavory goings-on are happening to some of the young girls working there. They seem a little “too” young and when Stacey stumbles across one of their bodies on the beach she is determined to get to the bottom of things. Likeable, but with a touch of sand, Stacey is an ordinary gal you’ll root for as she untangles webs of deception and puts herself in the middle to do the right thing, in spite of her Tough Luck attitude.

Next in the series is Indigo Hour: there is never a right time for a wrong call and Stacey gets that wrong call at the indigo hour one morning that turns her world upside down and inside out. The indigo hour is that time just before dawn and just after dusk when the sky is a deep, indigo blue and babies are born, old people pass, and anything can, and does, happen.

The Third Persuasion is the third installment in the series. Stacey’s at a Memorial Day Beach Picnic when a shot rings out and all hell breaks loose. Stay tuned…

Wow! Those all sound wonderful. As you know, since you’re a fellow Solstice author, I also write a cozy mystery series, the Cobble Cove mysteries that feature a librarian who is a co-author of a mystery series. I have currently also written three in the series with the first being reprinted soon and the third following shortly after. The second book, Between a Rock and a Hard Place, was published in October.

Describe your goals as a writer. What do you hope to achieve in the next few years? What are you planning to do to reach these goals?

I’m hoping to dovetail a successful writing career with the close of my successful business career in about five years. I’ve been a radio disc jockey and the first female club DJ in the state of Florida. Also did a stint as an evening anchor radio journalist. I held an FCC First Class Radiotelephone License with Radar Endorsement which allowed me to be a Chief Engineer for a Priority I broadcast facility at the end of my radio days. I’ve been a bartender, waitress, secretary, executive secretary and an executive, up to and including a couple of corporate Vice-Presidencies. My favorite job is Customer Service and today I work for a medical company helping to onboard and serve our clientele.

You certainly have a wide variety of interesting work experience. I’ve been a librarian most of my life and have also worked as a secretary. I have experience in journalism, too, when I volunteered as an editor on my college newspaper.

What type of reader are you hoping to attract? Who do you believe would be most interested in reading your books?

This is, clearly, a beach read. If you’re not at the beach already, Tough Luck Lane will take you there. I’m hoping for readers who love a good story with lots of action and adventure as well as a quirky, offbeat and funny look at life. The series is not at all formulaic and the sidekicks will change with each story.

Sounds like fun. My cozies are a bit more serious. Although they take place in a small town and also feature quirky characters and a library cat and golden retriever, they border a bit on traditional mysteries especially the first, A Stone’s Throw, that features a bit of romantic suspense.

What advice would you give other authors or those still trying to get published?

Keep going. Enjoy the journey! Sure, the goal is to get published and achieve the recognition you dream your work deserves – but the friends and colleagues you’ll make along the way are amazing!

A goal is a dream with a plan. Keep dreaming. Keep planning. Keep writing. Try everything! Especially when bringing your work to the marketplace. You never know what’s going to work.

Inspiration can strike anywhere so keep an open mind to new experiences and fresh ideas.

I agree completely. It takes time to build an audience and fan base, but meeting other authors and readers is a very worthwhile party of the writing experience. It’s also important to experiment and challenge yourself. I am publishing a romantic comedy novella in February, Jack Trumps Ace, that is very different from my cozy mystery writing. I also enjoy writing other genres and have short stories in Fantasy and Horror anthologies, as well.

What particular challenges and struggles did you face before first becoming published?

I was sidelined for a couple of years with a chronic illness that is now manageable although a bit of a pain-in-the-butt now and again. The support and encouragement I got from my husband and very dear friends got me through the worst of the struggle and kept me writing or, at least, editing until I was well enough to pick up the reins again.

I’m sure that helped strengthen your writing. I’ve also found that writing can be very therapeutic.

Have you taken any writing or publishing classes? If so, please provide information about them and if you feel they helped you further your professional skills.

I’ve enjoyed writing since I was a kid. I’d make up stories to share in class and took every English and writing class I could get my hands on. To this day, I attend as many workshops and classes as time and money permit on everything from writing, dialog, and conflict, etc. to marketing and developing a brand/presence. Florida is very good to writers and there are workshops galore.

Excellent. I’ve also been writing since childhood. We currently have a writing group at my library that I helped establish that is run by a writing teacher. I’ve also taken many online writing and publishing courses.

What are your hobbies and interests besides writing?

Reading, of course! At the Beach! Or… At home with my husband, stretched out on our recliners with good books, warm blankets and Weeble our calico cat curled up between us.

My husband, John, is the bass guitarist for The Big City Dogs, a well-known local band. It’s fun to be a Rock Wife on weekends. All the band mates and wives are friends so we’re like a little family.

Nature walks in Fern Forest, our local woods, canoeing down the Loxahatchee River and traveling. Our favorite trip was to Muir Woods in Northern California where we enjoyed the beautiful redwoods.

Sounds relaxing. While I’m not a beach person, I do enjoy walking and nature. I also have a cat, two of them in fact. One is Siamese and the other a tabby, but I’ve had cats most of my life but never a Calico. I think they’re beautiful and would love to have one in the future.

What do you like most and least about being an author? What is your toughest challenge?

I love it all. Especially telling a good story. I’m all about the story actually, and will do anything it takes to make it entertaining and enjoyable.

The publishing business is new to me and I love the challenge of learning a new industry. Solstice has played a huge part in making it easy and fun.

I love writing, too, as well as being a librarian. Books have always been important to me. I’ve also found the staff and authors at Solstice are very helpful and talented.

Please list your social media links, website, blog, etc. so readers can connect with you.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ToughLuckLounge?fref=ts

Blog: http://toughlucklounge.blogspot.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lois.crockett?fref=ts

Twitter: https://twitter.com.LoisCrockett @ LoisCrockett

Thanks, Lois. I enjoyed that interview and learning about you and your books very much and am sure the readers of this blog did, too. I wish you the best of luck on the release of Tough Luck Lane (sorry for the pun).

Author Spotlight, Solstice Publishing

Author Spotlight: Epic Fantasy Author Rival Gates

Posted on January 22, 2017 by Debbie

Welcome to the Literary Library Lounge where I interview fellow authors. Today, I am chatting with Rival Gates from Omaha, Nebraska.

Thanks for joining us, Rival. Please take a seat and make yourself comfortable.

How long have you been published? What titles have you published and with which publisher? Have you self-published any titles? Please give details.

abstract colorful sword cross heaven on dark background

I was originally published in 2013 by Solstice Publishing. They put out my first two books, “Quest for the Red Sapphire” and “Sapphire Crucible.” Then I went to Sarah Book Publishing for a change of pace. They published “Mandrean Revenge” and “Repercussions Abound.” I have at least two more books scheduled with them.

Very nice. Tell us a little bit about your books — what genre you write, if you write a series, any upcoming releases or your current work-in-progress. If you have an upcoming release, please specify the release date.

I write High or Epic Fantasy depending on your terminology. My books are all part of my Sapphire Chronicles series. I am just starting the fifth book called “The Thief Master of Ravensburg.” I hope to be done with it by the end of the year as I write very slowly and constantly check my work for inconsistencies.

Editing is a time-consuming process, but it’s crucial to producing a quality book.

Describe your goals as a writer. What do you hope to achieve in the next few years? What are you planning to do to reach these goals?

My first goal is to complete the series. In between the books I will be promoting them to help add to their success. My ultimate goal is to reach best-seller status and have them made into movies.

Excellent. I have a mystery series, but I also like to work on standalone titles of various genres. Some readers have suggested I try my cozy series with the Hallmark Channel. I wish you luck with trying for a movie.

What type of reader are you hoping to attract? Who do you believe would be most interested in reading your books?

I think any age bracket would be interested in these books. Mostly I think they’re geared to Young Adults.

I’m a librarian, as well as an author, and I know that there’s quite a bit of crossover between YA and adult novels. For instance, the Harry Potter series is read by all ages.

What advice would you give other authors or those still trying to get published?

Agents are worth their weight in gold. Keep applying to agents until you get one. Once they are on the job, let them find you a publisher. They can find you places you could never find on your own. Otherwise, you can try it on your own but it’s harder to get into a publisher without an introduction from an agent.

I agree completely and have been querying agents for several months now in the hope of finding a large publisher for my psychological thriller.

What particular challenges and struggles did you face before first becoming published?

It took me a year and a half to find an agent. Then it took another year and a half to publish my first book. Both problems I blame on having a 900-page manuscript. It scared off both agents and publishers. We finally decided to separate it into my first to books and it was picked up within a month.

Yes, many aspects of publishing are take longer than the writing itself.

Have you taken any writing or publishing classes? If so, please provide information about them and if you feel they helped you further your professional skills.

I took writing classes in high school but tested out of most of them in college. The ones I did take honed my skills but I received excellent grades in at the time. The biggest thing I learned was not to argue when someone just doesn’t like your writing style. This helped me deal with editors who had a different style.

Good point.

What are your hobbies and interests besides writing?

I like to read and watch sports. Whenever possible I spend time with my family.

I’m the same, but I don’t watch sports. I got into binge watching Bones and Castle (I love both shows probably because I write mysteries). I work full-time so, when I’m not working or writing, I also try to find time to spend with my husband and daughter.

What do you like most and least about being an author? What is your toughest challenge?

What I Like most is seeing my dreams in print. What I like least is promoting the book. It takes me away from writing. The toughest challenge is generating sales.

Most of the authors I’ve interviewed have expressed the same feeling about marketing their books. I also find it a challenge.

Please list your social media and book links for people who would like to connect with you and/or buy your books.

Web Site: http://www.rivalgates.com/

Blog: http://www.rivalgates.com/blog

http://rivalgates.tumblr.com/

Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1qqrjiB

Twitter: https://twitter.com/rivalgates1

Purchase “Quest for the Red Sapphire”

Amazon: http://amzn.to/1npYd0S

Purchase “The Sapphire Crucible”

Amazon: http://amzn.to/1lGfOVN

Purchase “Mandrean Revenge”

Amazon: http://amzn.to/1L9c76S

Barnes & Noble : http://bit.ly/1QYOL2y

Book Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZL_knO95Tk

Purchase “Repercussions Abound”

Kindle: http://amzn.to/2cGyNmy

Paperback: http://amzn.to/2cGyNmy

Amazon Author Page: http://amzn.to/1f8PJNr

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/32194785-repercussions-abound

Thanks so much for the interview, Rival. It’s been a pleasure having you on the blog. Best wishes on finishing your series and landing a movie deal.

Author Spotlight, New Releases, Solstice Publishing

Author Spotlight: K.A. Meng Paranormal and Urban Fantasy Author

Posted on January 19, 2017 by Debbie

Welcome to the Literary Library Lounge where I interview fellow authors. Today, I am chatting with K.A. Meng from Grand Forks, North Dakota that she claims is one of the coldest towns in America.

Thanks for joining us, K.A. Please take a seat and make yourself comfortable.

How long have you been published? What titles have you published and with which publisher? Have you self-published any titles? Please give details

I was published for the first time at the end of September 2016, a little over three months ago. My only publication right now is Superior Species with Solstice Publishing.

Congratulations.

Tell us a little bit about your books — what genre you write, if you write a series, any upcoming releases or your current work-in-progress. If you have an upcoming release, please specify the release date.

Superior Species is about an eighteen-year-old girl who moves to a new town to start a better life. Ivory Ames has caught the attention of four gorgeous guys. At Los Roshano University this isn’t normal, even when all the upperclassmen have perfect physiques, flawless complexions, and hypnotic looks. That’s not even the weirdest part. The town has a strict sunset curfew because of wild animals attacking. To keep her friends and herself safe, Ivory must figure out the truth behind the town’s mysteries before it’s too late.

That sounds very interesting.

I write Paranormal and Urban Fantasy stories. Superior Species is planned for a series. I am editing the second book now. I don’t have a release date.

Good luck with that.

Describe your goals as a writer. What do you hope to achieve in the next few years? What are you planning to do to reach these goals?

My main goal is to finish the Superior Species books which will take the next few years. I need to write them. My plan is to write the books, put it aside for a bit, and then edit it. My goal is to release two a year.

Nice. I write a series, too, although I enjoy writing short stories and standalones. I find it’s always good to put a first draft aside after you finish it and then go back and edit when it’s fresh to you again.

What type of reader are you hoping to attract? Who do you believe would be most interested in reading your books?

I hope to attract readers who are interested in the paranormal just like me. I believe those who are tired of monsters not being scary anymore will enjoy my books. My plan is to bring the fear back for them. My characters might be good-looking, but they’re still monsters.

Interesting point. I sometimes enjoy a touch of the paranormal in the books I read. My self-published book, Cloudy Rainbow, was a paranormal romance, and I also have another that I started and hope to finish one day.

What advice would you give other authors or those still trying to get published?

Never give up. If you want to be an author, write the book, find a great writers group or friends to polish it, and then submit it. Keep submitting until you are published. I do recommend going with a publisher the first time. You need help. I’ve learned so much in the last few months. For those self-published and are making it, I applaud you.

I agree. You have to be persistent to get noticed in this competitive field. You’re also right about self-publishing. It’s not for everyone, although some people do well.

What particular challenges and struggles did you face before first becoming published?

My biggest struggle was trying to find a publisher. I had a lot of rejections, but I never gave up.

It’s very hard to break in; but like the saying goes, “the squeaky wheel gets the grease.” I’m currently querying agents for another title. No bites yet, but I’m not letting the rejections stop me from continuing to submit.

Have you taken any writing or publishing classes? If so, please provide information about them and if you feel they helped you further your professional skills.

I’ve taken two writing classes in college. I’m also involved in critique groups. They helped me out and shaped me.

I’m involved in my library’s writing group now, and I also took some online writing and publishing courses. In addition, I had journalism experience from the work on my college newspaper.

What are your hobbies and interests besides writing?

My hobbies are reading, watching TV and movies, and playing board games. I’m a homebody and I’m proud of it.

There’s nothing wrong with being a homebody. I think most of us authors are. I like to travel a little but mostly to conferences and with my family in the summer, but I don’t like to spend too much time away especially since I have cats.

What do you like most and least about being an author? What is your toughest challenge?

I like being an author because it’s my dream job and I’m slowly building the career to do it. What I dislike is how long it is taking. I want to write every day only, but I like to eat. The toughest job so far is marketing my books. I’m still trying to figure out what works and what doesn’t. Can’t I have a fairy godmother? *Twirls wand* The next day, I’m a best seller.

Lol. I feel very much the same. I work full-time, so I can’t devote much of the day to writing except the early morning. Marketing is tough. It can be frustrating and time consuming without much reward. However, I agree the best marketing tool for authors is to write more books. You have to prioritize all the rest including eating and sleeping, of course.

Please list your social media links, website, blog, etc. and include some book cover graphics and author photos if possible.

Facebook author page: https://www.facebook.com/KAMengAuthor/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/KAMengAuthor

Website: http://www.kamengauthor.com/

Blog: http://www.kamengauthor.com/blog

Superior Species buy link Amazon: getBook.at/SuperiorSpecies

Superior Species trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cOzCNL3irmg

Wonderful! Thanks for the interview, K.A. I wish you all the best on your series and future writings.

Author Spotlight, Solstice Publishing

Author Spotlight: Nicole C. Luttrell

Posted on January 13, 2017 by Debbie

Welcome to the Literary Library Lounge where I interview fellow authors. Today, I am chatting with Nicole C. Luttrell from Butler, Pennsylvania.

Hi, Nicole. Welcome. Please tell us a bit about yourself.

My name is Nicole C. Luttrell. The C stands for Christine. I was named for the Stephen King book. Here’s the fun thing, my maiden name was Ford. If you never saw the movie, Christine, you know she was a Ford Mustang. My parents thought themselves witty. I live in Butler, Pennsylvania. It’s an old steel town that’s slowly coming back to life. We have our very first Starbucks now.

Interesting. Also please tell us about your writing.

I’m a speculative fiction writer. I write Fantasy, Science Fiction and Horror. Broken Patterns is my very first traditionally published book. It’s my baby. This series has pretty much encompassed my whole life for almost four years now. It just came out in December, which just made my year. I’ve also self published two other books. The first was a collection of short stories called Days and Other Stories. The second, and the one I’m most excited about, is a science fiction novella called Seeming. It’s the first in a series called Station 86. I’m planning on releasing at least two more Station 86 books this year.

I’m hoping that this is going to be a big year for my books. Broken Patterns is the first book in a trilogy. The second book, titled Starting Chains, is done and I’m planning to submit it shortly. I’m currently working on book three, titled Missing Stitches.

I’ll be posting the second Station 86 book, titled ‘You Can’t Trust the AI’, on my website starting on February 15th.

Very nice. What other plans do you have for your writing in the future?

Over the next few years, I intend to finish the Woven trilogy. Once that’s done, I have plans for a two book collection connected to the trilogy. It will be in the same universe, but with a whole new cast of characters.

I also intend to write at least ten Station 86 novellas over the next three to four years.

I admire authors with so many projects in the works. I have several myself. I just wish I had more time to accomplish them.

Can you tell us about your ideal reader, Nicole?

I often picture my ideal reader as a young adult or new adult. I’d hope that my books can reach a wide age demographic. You’re never too old or young for a good story.

Vert true.

What advice would you give to writers trying to break into publishing?

The best advice I can give to an unpublished writer is this; Understand you’re a writer right now. It doesn’t matter if you’ve never been published, you’re a writer if you write.

Keep writing. Keep sending your work out to publishers and agents and fiction magazines. When you get a rejection letter, and you will get rejection letters, send your work out again. And again and again.

Absolutely. A writer has to be persistent. There’s a lot of competition out there, but also a lot of markets. It takes time to find the right one.

Can you tell us about the struggles you faced before becoming published?

I have to say, the biggest struggle I faced in getting published was finding the time to write and submit. I work a full-time job and have two kids. I had to learn to get by on seven hours of sleep, write before the kids get up and get real serious about time management. I had to give up some hobbies and scale some others way back. But it’s worth it.

I can sympathize. I also work full-time and have a daughter. I do most of my writing at 5 am before I go to work and my daughter leaves for school. I’m a morning person, so that seems to work for me, but that’s still not enough time to get the myriad activities an author needs to do, as you mention. I have to sneak extra time in on the weekends when I can.

Have you taken any writing classes or courses?

I’ve never taken any creative writing classes, but I did study Journalism in high school. I was on my school paper for three years.

I was on my college paper for several years myself, Nicole. I didn’t study journalism but got experience from that. I was an English major and then I studied library science later to become a librarian. I’ve worked at a public library for 25 years.

Can you tell me about your hobbies?

When I’m not writing, I’m usually reading. I also crochet, knit, play video games and watch way too many cartoons.

lol. I’m sure the cartoons are a great way to relieve stress.

What do you like most and least about writing?

The thing I love most about being a writer is sharing my stories with other people. I love knowing that someone else read one of my stories and enjoyed it. I’ve spent most of my life loving stories, so I’m glad to give that to someone else.

The worst thing, I think, about any form of art, is having someone misinterpret it. Think of what happened with Catcher on The Rye, or all of the drug insinuations over Alice in Wonderland. That’s my fear.

I think it’s important for authors to write what they believe in and feel in their hearts. I know that it’s hard not to wonder about the reaction of your words on readers, but you can’t worry about that. There will be people who love your writing, those that hate it, and many others in between.

Thanks so much for the great interview, Nicole, and best wishes on your future books. Please list your social media links, so people can connect with you.

Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/nicolecluttrell86/

Twitter- https://twitter.com/NicoleCLuttrell

Pintrest- https://www.pinterest.com/nicolecluttrell/

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/Paper-Beats-World-1408800012753200/?ref=bookmarks

Blog- https://paperbeatsworld.com/

Author Spotlight, Authors, Books, Solstice Publishing

Author Spotlight Natalie Silk

Posted on January 5, 2017 by Debbie

Welcome to the Literary Library Lounge where I interview fellow authors. Today, I am chatting with Natalie Silk from Illinois.

Thanks for joining me, Natalie. Please take a seat and make yourself comfortable.

I now have two books published, Stars’ Fire (with another publisher) and Snowfall’s Secret (with Solstice). I also wrote a short story, Synapse, for the latest SF anthology. I’m currently working on a third book with a tentative title of Storm’s Eye.

Very nice.

Describe your goals as a writer. What do you hope to achieve in the next few years? What are you planning to do to reach these goals?

I want one of my books to be read by as many youths as possible.

Good luck with that. Most authors want their work read by as large an audience as possible.

What type of reader are you hoping to attract? Who do you believe would be most interested in reading your books?

I love writing science fiction for young adults. When I was a tween there were no SF books for us (particularly girls). I’m glad things are changing.

Great point. My 12-year old daughter enjoys science fiction books, as do other girls her age today.

What advice would you give other authors or those still trying to get published?

Don’t give up. Ever.

Excellent advice.

What particular challenges and struggles did you face before first becoming published?

There was no internet or self-publishing ebooks. In fact, there was no such thing as an ebook.

Interesting. It’s true that ebooks have made a big change in the publishing field.

Have you taken any writing or publishing classes? If so, please provide information about them and if you feel they helped you further your professional skills.

I took two writing classes in college to fill a prerequisite. I have to say there is a fine art in finding the right writers’ group.

I’m sure that’s true.

What are your hobbies and interests besides writing?

I love traveling, sightseeing, and camping in warmer months. I turn into a real snuggle bug in winter (knitting, reading, and watching movies).

I think a lot of us have seasonal hobbies. Yours sound like fun.

What do you like most and least about being an author? What is your toughest challenge?

I love getting lost in my writing and the sense of accomplishment when I finish. The toughest challenge is getting my work published.

Yes, getting published is tough and selling your work afterwards is even more of a challenge.

Thanks so much, Natalie. Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?

My current work is Snowfall’s Secret. It’s a about a girl from another world who must live like any other tween on Earth (and she suffers from amnesia). Of course, she learns to enjoy shopping at the mall with her very own debit card and has a few secrets. At its core is the message that everyone has value and has something special to share.

The story was inspired by a dream I had when I was twelve. I saw five monks standing in a semi-circle. They were all wearing a triangle-shaped pendant with a red stone in the center. One of the monks looked at me and said, “You’re not ready,” and I woke. I had subsequent dreams of a girl with a pendant to the one the monks wore and I wrote them all down.

My favorite character to write about (funny how that turned out) was a secondary one to the story: Mrs. Margot Greenfield. I based her on a favorite childhood teacher.

By the way, my favorite genre to write is science fiction. Surprise! Just kidding.

My focus right now is science fiction for girls; but I’ve also wrote a short science fiction story and I’m still playing around with a short story that’s alternative history to give myself a mental stretch. I have this irrational fear that the last thing I finish writing will be my last. I wonder if I’m not alone.

I’m pretty ‘old school’ when it comes to my writing habits. The first thing I do is buy a brand new hand-sized spiral notebook and use it to write the basic story that’s mostly action punctuated here and there by dialogue. The little notebook helps me believe that I’m accomplishing so much. I then use my trusty laptop to write the second draft that looks as if I threw words down to see what sticks. The technical term I like to use is word hurl. Each subsequent draft looks a little more refined than the previous one. I then use the little spiral notebook to make notes and jot down ideas for the story.

I began writing when I was ten and back then we didn’t have home computers.

I was asked a while ago what I would do if I weren’t a writer; and I quipped that I would be an artist. I dug deep down and realized the truth is that I would be a very sad person without writing. My words are what ground me and keep me sane.

I’ve been asked advice by aspiring writers. I’m very, very flattered. But let me tell you, I’m still an aspiring writer. My advice is simple: don’t ever, ever (and I mean ever) give up.

Please reach out to me on:

Facebook Natalie Silk, Author

https://www.facebook.com/Natalie-Silk-Author-313822162074307/?fref=ts

Twitter @natalieasilk

Thanks again, Natalie. It’s been a pleasure having you as a guest. We both have in common that we started writing very young and have been published by Solstice Publishing. I’ve also done some Sci-Fic writing but for adults and not teens. I wish you the very best on your future books.

A Stone's Throw, Between a Rock and a Hard Place, Limitless Publishing, Solstice Publishing

Looking Back to 2016 and Forward to 2017

Posted on December 28, 2016 by Debbie

When the year ends, it’s very common for people to reflect on what they accomplished in the previous twelve months and what they’d like to achieve in the future. As I look back at 2016, I realize how blessed I’ve been both personally and professionally. Not only did I publish my third book and several short stories, but I wrote two other novels that I hope to publish in 2017. More importantly, I’ve made many new friends among fellow authors and readers and strengthened the friendships I already had. My family and library co-workers have been supportive of my endeavors, and I’ve begun to actually feel like an author and not someone whose hobby is writing.

My year in review starts in January 2016 when I gave my first author talk at the Hicksville Public Library on my first Cobble Cove mystery, A Stone’s Throw. Not having had any previous public-speaking experience, I was very nervous. It was the day before a major snowstorm, but more people attended than I imagined. I thought many of them would be shopping for food or staying home. Those that came were patrons I already knew who were interested in hearing about my book. I found that I was among friends and my fear of talking in front of an audience diminished. I even started enjoying myself.

In March, I spoke again. This time, at my local Barnes and Noble store to a small group composed of several of those who attended my library talk as well as a few friends and co-workers. Their support meant so much.

June was a busy month, as I traveled to Foxwoods Casino in Connecticut to attend the MASE (Mystic Author Signing Event) with other authors of my past publisher. Although I did not talk at this event, it was my first time at a signing. A few weeks later, I was one of three local authors who attended the Levittown Library’s Summer Reading opening festival and signed books in the “Author’s Garden.” While I did not sell many books at either of these events, I met some wonderful people including local authors and now good friends, Lisa Diaz Meyer and Kimberly Amato. The month capped off with my being awarded the Cat Writer’s Association Glamour Puss Award sponsored by Hartz Corporation for my article, “Brush your Cat for Bonding, Beauty, and Better Health.”

In August, I signed with Solstice Publishing for my second Cobble Cove Mystery, Between a Rock and a Hard Place, and spoke at the Levittown Library’s summer closing program.

In September, the C.W. Post Pioneer newspaper published an article about my books. I was especially thrilled to be featured in the paper that I had worked on as a secretary and Features editor when I attended college.

In October, Between a Rock and a Hard Place, was published, and I gave an author talk at the North Bellmore Public Library.

An article bout my mystery series appeared in the Hicksville News in December, a week before I spoke there again about my new book and my publishing journey. Right before Christmas, Between a Rock and a Hard Place was #18 on Amazon.com’s Top 100 list for cozy mysteries.

I already have some plans for this year and quite a few dreams.

In January, I will give an introduction to my mystery series for the Hicksville Library book club who will be discussing Between a Rock and a Hard Place.

In February, my short historical/paranormal romance, “The Seashell and the Stone” will be published in an anthology of love stories by Solstice Publishing.

In April, a local church book group will be featuring Between a Rock and a Hard Place for their book discussion, and I will be attending the talk.

In May, I head out to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina for the Cat Writer’s Association Conference.

In June, I will be attending Book Expo America in New York City.

I also plan to publish Written in Stone, Cobble Cove Mystery #3 and Sea Scope, my standalone psychological thriller that I am querying with agents in the hope that they will recognize it as worthy of a contract with a large publisher. Of course, I also have many ideas for new stories, books, and articles.

I want to thank you all for being part of my 2016 and hope you will stay with me as I continue my writing journey.

Anthology, New Releases, Solstice Publishing

New Release: Solstice Publishing’s A Winter Holiday 2016 Anthology

Posted on November 28, 2016 by Debbie

The end of year holidays are filled with joy as decorations go up worldwide. Parades give everyone a chance to join with others in happiness. Families make plans to gather for meals and celebrations.

A season for joy…

A season for celebration…

A season for family…

Solstice Publishing presents eleven talented authors with a dozen stories that portray the winter holiday season in many ways. Each tale will fill you with wonder, joy, and a sense of earned togetherness.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zm8GCXvEYik&feature=youtu.be

Celebrate with K.C. Sprayberry, Donna Alice Patton, Johnny Gunn, Susan Lynn Solomon, Debbie De Louise, Elle Marlow, Leah Hamrick, Eden S. Clark, E.B. Sullivan, M.A. Cortez, and Rebecca L. Frencl this winter holiday season.

http://bookgoodies.com/a/B01N41UOYH

My story, Christmas with My Characters, is included in this anthology. Here is the blurb:

The characters from Debbie De Louise’s Cobble Cove cozy mysteries gather in the Cobble Cove library to celebrate the holidays. Each character receives a gift from the author; and Alicia, the main character, reads some excerpts from the first book, A Stone’s Throw, and the new release, Between a Rock and a Hard Place.

A Stone's Throw, Anthology, Between a Rock and a Hard Place, Characters, Solstice Publishing

Pre-Orders Open for Solstice Publishing’s A Winter Holiday 2016 Anthology

Posted on November 17, 2016 by Debbie

The end of year holidays are filled with joy as decorations go up worldwide. Parades give everyone a chance to join with others in happiness. Families make plans to gather for meals and celebrations.

A season for joy…

A season for celebration…

A season for family…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zm8GCXvEYik&feature=youtu.be

http://bookgoodies.com/a/B01N41UOYH

My story, Christmas with My Characters, is included in this anthology. Here is the blurb:

New Releases, Solstice Publishing

New Release: Reach for Me by Rachael Tamayo (Book 2 of the Friendship Zone series)

Posted on November 2, 2016 by Debbie

Coming November 2nd from Solstice Publishing, the next installment in the Friend-Zone series.

Remember Ashley from Chase me, Book 1? Well, she’s back. This time she has her own tale to tell about lost love, starting over, and the real reason she is such a raging bitch to her little sister Adrienne in the first book.

In Reach for Me, we get to know her more. Turns out, there can be more to being a man stealing bitch than we all might have thought. This time, almost a year has passed and Ashley has settled into a mundane day to day life that she never knew before. Not only has she settled in, she’s realizing that she actually likes it, and maybe some self-loathing is causing her to keep everyone at arm’s length.

Of course, keeping everyone away because she doesn’t trust them or herself will only work for so long. When hunky Shane becomes determined to help her realize that she’s spent all her life living the dreams of everyone around her, and has none left for herself.

Will Ashley learn to trust Shane, even as sparks fly between them? How about sharing an apartment with a guy that makes her feel like jelly inside when he gives her that smile and those blue eyes of his light up?

Available on Amazon for Kindle, Kindle Unlimited, Paperback, and Barnes and Noble.

About the author:

Rachael Tamayo is a 911 dispatcher by day, and writer by night. Not to mention wife, mother, and multitasker extraordinaire. When she isn’t working away at the police department or writing on her next book, she’s usually at home spending quality time with her family.

Find all her books and follow her on Amazon at http://viewauthor.at/RachaelTamayo

Find her at www.RachaelTamayowrites.com to keep up with her latest work and contests. Let’s not forget social media

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/RachaelTamayo/

Twitter @rtamayo2004

Instagram tamayorachael

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15251093.Rachael_Tamayo

Anthology, New Releases, Solstice Publishing

New Horror Anthology from Solstice Publishing: Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep

Posted on October 27, 2016 by Debbie

I am proud to announce the release of Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep Vol 4, a Horror anthology just in time for Halloween, that includes my story, Knowledge is Power.

Welcome to your worst nightmare. Sleep is highly overrated. You could be reading a book guaranteed to keep awake long after the kiddos are in bed and the Halloween candy is tempting you to grab some. Please enjoy these eight tales sure to send you to hiding under the bed!

Solstice Shadows and eight fabulous authors team up to bring you, our faithful readers, creepy tales from all around the world.

http://bookgoodies.com/a/B01M7URA5Z

Blurb

Sleep is impossible after reading these eight tales of things that go bump in the night…

Mysterious Warrior Battles Evil Coven…

Haunted wedding dress horror story…

Every secret has a cost…

Who am I and why am I here?

Long hidden secrets emerge from the pond…

Unexpected consequences from an interruption…

Don’t plan on the usual housewarming!

The perfect relationship from hell!

Sadie K. Frazier, Josie Montano, S.C. Alban, Johnny Gunn, K.C. Sprayberry, Debbie De Louise, Archimede Fusillo, and Alex Pilalis present eight stories of horror sure to have you screaming!

https://youtu.be/2tr5-Z_KNDM

While you’re out and about for these wonderfully terrifying stories, check out our Halloween cookbook, to prepare wonderfully themed meals!

http://solsticepublishing.com/ghoulish-delights-for-your-halloween-fun/

Have a scary time and don’t forget to leave the lights on!

Global Book Link: (paperback and Kindle Singles coming soon. eBook available now)

myBook.to/NILMDTSVol4