Words that tug on the heartstrings
If you’re in Bradford or surrounding areas why not pop in and meet this phenomenal line up of authors on Saturday 27th July 2019 in Kala Sangam Arts Centre.
For more information and a chance to get to know the attending authors, why not check us out on Facebook.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/ukindielitfest
![Seal Mother: A Selkie Tale in Verse by [English, Rose ]](https://images-eu.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51KxyiEs0XL.jpg)
I devoured this short story, so skilfully written by an author who I have the utmost respect for. She doesn’t write for the masses, she doesn’t stray into writing what is popular or in fashion. Rose English writes from the heart about things that capture her vivid imagination and she weaves a story so beautiful that it feels as though she has placed her hands around your heart and is squeezing gently.
Seal Mother is a tragic tale of love, betrayal, loss and heart-breaking decisions.
It’s a children book, but don’t let that stop you from reading it as an adult. Let Rose’s poetical verse sweep you into a maelstrom of emotions as you forget your existence for a while and ride the waves with Seal Mother and her emotional journey.
I will be releasing my first newsletter later this month which I am both excited and nervous about in equal measure. In the newsletter I will share excerpts from both my published works and my current work in progress book (WIP). Each month there will be a prize draw. Anyone who has signed up for my newsletter will be entered and this will run monthly for about a year. One person will win a prize each month. These giveaways will mainly be from my fellow authors whose books I have enjoyed and want to share with you. Occasionally I may add one of my own into the mix. These giveaways will follow on from an author spotlight on my website giving you a chance to learn a bit more about the author in question. E-copies only. The first author I will be spotlighting is my very good friend Rose English otherwise known as Su S'ari. So if you are interested in winning one of Rose's books just sign up to the mailing list and your first newsletter will be sent out shortly.
Maria
There is a growing trend in society to believe that books should be free or heavily discounted and we have all been guilty of feeding into it. I pick up freebies but I am also happy to pay for the books I want. Maybe I can’t get all the ones I want but hey isn’t that just life? I see lots of clothes I like and I might be able to pick up a new dress for a special occasion or a new pair of jeans because my old ones have holes in where no self-respecting forty-something wants holes but I can’t buy every item that my heart desires. Certainly not on my non-existent income as an author. Just as well I have a full-time job that stops me from being a starving artist languishing in a garret with only bread and water to sustain me. My day-time job takes up a huge portion of my week and often leaves me drained but from somewhere I have to find the time for my passion which is writing. My dream would be my writing to take off and be able to write full-time but alas that can’t be at the moment.
Everyone of us has had people who ask for a free copy, I’d like to quote my friend and fellow author Chris Turnbull “erm No! There is no such thing as a free copy…even I don’t get a free copy and it’s my book.”
We do have a free copy on our computers, sure and we can send it to our Kindle device but if we want a print copy of our book, we have to pay – the proof copy isn’t even free. But let me tell you a bit more about what we’ve paid for: A beautiful cover, a feast to the eye, to tempt you, an editor to shape our words and spot mistakes and inconsistencies. And let’s be clear on this my editor and cover designer, both wonderful women who are also authors won’t accept it if I ask them to provide their services for free–which I wouldn’t do. Some people pay for marketing and do promotional giveaways.
I have three novelettes on the market at the moment and a pending novel (having the red pen treatment). A novelette is small, doesn’t require the same time frame to write it but I still used my time and I still paid for the above items. Yesterday was the two-year anniversary of my first novelette ‘As Dreams are Made on.’ Based only on the cover and editing alone I have lost £36.00 on it. So to recap, two years on and with 104 kindle sales and 16 paperback copies I am still in the red. I haven’t set my price high 0.99p/c because it is a short read. An hour or so of entertainment for under £1.00/$1.00 but still people want it for free. You could argue that if they like it they might buy one of my other books and yes that is true but lets also go back to the earlier paragraph where I acknowledged that I can’t buy all the books or clothes I like. So maybe it would generate sales–but maybe not.
Books aren’t just entertainment they are often an escape from reality –a reality that many people find challenging so given the duality of the product why do we question its value?
I’ve got an experiment for you to try (I won’t do it myself as I previously mentioned my busy schedule 🙂 )
Walk in to or phone your hairdresser and ask them if they will give you a free haircut.
Ring your garage next time your car needs a service or MOT and ask them to do it for free
Who loves having their nails done? Manicure? Pedicure? Facial? Let’s see about this freebie
The list is endless.
I would love to hear back from anyone who gets a freebie. Good luck and happy hunting.
But for this author who works endlessly and pays for the services I receive the only freebies I will consider are those that I choose to give for a promotional event which will require your participation.
For anyone who believes that authors should be paid for their work please leave a comment in support and it you are so inclined please share it with the hashtag #Booksarenotfree let’s get it trending.
If you are interested in my books follow the links:
US: https://www.amazon.com/Maria-Gibbs/e/B00SDDJV1U/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Maria-Gibbs/e/B00SDDJV1U/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0
If you want to know more about my books have a look at the other pages on this website. You can even see the reviews that I have left for the books I’ve read recently.
I can’t wait to take part in this event. Tickets on #sale 50% discounted for a short time only. Check it out.
#Books #Books #Books
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
IT’S OUR LAST TICKET SALE!
50% OFF ALL TICKETS!
CODE: 50_OFF
Ticket Link: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/west-midlands-valentines-boo…
February the 4th 2017 is set to be a day filled with books, romance, laughter, and live 1940’s style music all thanks to The West Midlands Valentines Book Signing & 1940’s Ball. With over 25 confirmed authors covering genres such as romance, chick-lit, erotica, young adult, horror, and children’s fiction, there is sure to be something here for you or your loved one just in time for Valentine’s Day. Or at least something to occupy the kids with.
When the door close to the signing at 16:30 we will be reopening them at 19:30 for our 1940’s swing ball where The Vintage Vocalist will take to the stage and take us back in time with classics from The Andrew Sisters, Vera Lynn, and Anne Shelton. (1940’s dress is very much encouraged).
So, why not come and mingle with the authors and get those books signed before joining us for a swing around the dancefloor?
ALL PROCEEDS MADE ARE BEING DONATED TO HELP FOR HEROES
Rainbow and Roses is a collection of beautiful stories, poetry and facts that the author has gathered together through painstaking research. She explores folklore from other cultures about the symbolism of the rose. There is a charming glimpse into her life with pictures and poetry written throughout the authors life. Amongst all of those riches is the story ‘One Breath’ which I have read before and enjoyed reading again. This is a beautiful collection which exudes an old world simplicity and charm.
The Roses & Dreams event on the 18th December was a howling success and great fun to book. Here I will recreate the party and results.
We started by thanking our cover designer and editor.
Hello Everyone
For those who don’t know me I am Maria Gibbs and although I have been writing all my life I have only been a self-published author since January 2015.
I have a passion for life believing it should be lived to the fullest as we never know what is around the corner. Not only do I love writing but I also enjoy reading, travel, horse-riding, motor-bikes, jet-ski’s and crafting. I work full-time so my writing has to be squeezed in outside of office hours.
I dream of escaping the rat-race and spending my time in a place of natural beauty where I can indulge my creative side.
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Ma…/e/B00SDDJV1U/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0
US: https://www.amazon.com/Mari…/e/B00SDDJV1U/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gibbsdream/?ref=aymt_homepage_panel
Twitter: https://twitter.com/gibbsdream
Website: https://gibbsdream.wordpress.com
Thank you Maria and welcome to the party everyone.
So I’m Su and I write under the pseudonym Rose English I post as both Su and Rose so I hope I don’t confuse you all too much (I have enough confusing myself at times)
I live on’England’s Green & Pleasant Land’, amongst the gentle rolling hills of the Herefordshire Countryside, my house is wall to wall books. I even have several ‘Leaning Tower of Paperbacks’.
I’m a dreamer, preferring a simple & quiet life. Often spending time alone, although never lonely, being ever surrounded by great characters when lost in a good book. I love theatre and the arts, adoring live performances on stage, I have very eclectic tastes.
I used to work as a school librarian, and share my love of books with children, it was the best job I ever had. However, life moves on and another chapter was only a page turn away.
For me writing is a hobby, I am more of a Read-a-holic. However, after winning FIRST PRIZE in a short story competition with ‘The Magic of Grandfather Christmas’ featured in ‘Seasonal, Sweet & Suspenseful’ I was inspired to transform the story into a full length novel, to be part of 4 seasonal short stories starting with ‘The Magic of Grandfather Time.’
Here are my links I would love you to drop by and say Hi Enjoy the party, we have been busy posting all week so when you get a spare moment do scroll right on down the page and check what you may have missed
Rose English https://www.facebook.com/RoseEnglish.UK.Author/
WordPress https://roseenglishukauthor.wordpress.com/
Gillari Books https://www.facebook.com/GillariBooks2015/
You’ve heard a little about us so now please feel free to use the comments tread to tell us about yourself.
The only person to take this opportunity to tell us about themselves was Jacquie New.
Jacquie New I’m a Vintage Mystery author writing under the name J.New, you can find my FB page here – Jnewwrites and the first of The Yellow Cottage Vintage Mysteries “An Accidental Murder” novella is available on Amazon at the following link, with the short story prequel available FREE on my website and the second book, a full length novel is due out in February 
🙂https://www.amazon.com/Accidental-Murder…/dp/B00V3KTWQE/
I will be publishing a novel at the beginning of 2017 and later on today I will be revealing the cover but for now I want to tell you a little about it and play a game.
A Boy from the Streets
Twin boys are born on the 12 September 1981 in a hospital in Brazil and left as orphans to their fate. One boy is adopted by a couple and taken to England but the other isn’t so lucky, Pedro ends up on the streets left to fend in a harsh and unforgiving world.
Twelve years later Jose is brought back to Brazil where he inadvertently learns the truth about his twin and the adoption and runs away to find him, thinking his adoptive parents no longer want him. What happens next will shake and shape the rest of his life–if he can survive.
Pedro is offered an opportunity that is beyond his wildest dreams, but to keep it means betrayal of someone he loves. This proves to be a far greater challenge than he anticipated.
A boy from the streets will tug at your heart-strings as you follow the twists and turns this story takes.
A few teasers for you:
First little game to break the ice.
For the chance to win a signed print copy of ‘A Boy from the Streets’ due for release early next year just enter the competition below.
I found this point scoring system on the Urban Dictionary and thought rather apt. So add your score up and write it in the comments box. If you want to make it more fun then tell me why you got your score but not necessary if you want to stay off the radar. The highest score will win a signed print copy but I will also gift an e-copy to the person with the lowest score.
Hi Everyone. It’s great to be back online with Roses and Dreams – can’t believe it’s a year since the last party. Thank you to Su and Maria for inviting me and to all my fellow authors for their continued support. It’s great to share ideas, info and be part of the UK Indie Author community.
Welcome to my relatives and friends who have given me so much encouragement over the past year and have become part of my fast growing Facebook family.
This was a great thread with lots of chat – too much to add here so will post Fliss’ (Felicity’s) posts which are rather awesome, I’m sure you’ll agree.
For all newcomers….
My name is Felicity Snowden I am a writer of murder, mysteries set in our wonderful county of Yorkshire and I’d like to welcome you.
Find me at https://www.amazon.co.uk/-/e/B00PIU36LM
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Grave…/dp/B01E7M64DI
My latest book ‘Grave Misconception’ is set in Whitby, North Yorkshire which has not only attracted millions of tourists over the years but has also been a draw for some of the literary legends – including Elizabeth Gaskell, Charles Dickens, Wilkie Collins and the unforgettable Bram Stoker. It is most certainly an exciting location not only as a colourful coastal resort and in terms of historical charm but more importantly as a haven for the creative writer in search of inspiration.
Although my photographic talents are somewhat limited I managed to take a few timely shots which you can find on my website facebook.com/felicitysnowdentitles
My first impressions of the Goth culture were duly recorded on my return and can be found on my Goodreads page.
https://www.goodreads.com/…/412595-in-search-of-the…My first impressions of the Goth culture were duly recorded on my return and can be found on my Goodreads page.
https://www.goodreads.com/…/412595-in-search-of-the…
Having visited Whitby in April last year my research continued with online sites, library and museum visits. Both my novels work on a time switch theme and aim to highlight a specific event in our local history. In this case the tragic loss of the Rohilla, a newly fitted hospital ship bound for the beaches of Dunkirk in the early days of WW1. The ship that floundered in the seas close to Whitby on that fateful night, was at first thought to have been struck by a German mine.
The vessel was actually in distress due to the horrendous weather conditions and the lack of coastal lights causing it to veer dangerously close to the rocks at Saltburn Nab.
During my research I came across a beautiful Folk song performed by the group ‘Now Then’ based in Barnoldswick and Earby, a haunting melody which relating the story of the disaster. A very moving piece that commemorates those from the area that lost their lives. Well worth a listen…. http://www.eskside.co.uk/ss_rohilla/melody.htm
A little bit now about my style of writing. Before I start writing I work out a skeleton plan –but as with most things in life it doesn’t always go the way you expect. It’s that ‘voice in my head’ thing again….no I’m not cracking up. Although many writers work on the concept that it’s better to start your story from the middle and go from there, I prefer to start from the beginning.
However with ‘Grave Misconception’ I found I had certain images/ ideas in my mind that were quite prominent and seemed desperate emerge. Needless to say they were hardly material for the first chapter.
And so I worked on those thoughts and here is the culpable extract.
https://www.goodreads.com/…/397252-grave-misconception
Thank you for joining me at the Dreams and Roses Christmas party.
I’d like to leave you with a competition to win a paperback copy of ‘Grave Misconception’. The McBride Murder Mysteries Book 1
First to send five correct answers to my email address will receive a FREE signed copy.
1) Name the church that stands on the headland at Whitby, close to the Abbey?
2) In which month of 1914 did the Rohilla disaster occur off the East coast, near Whitby?
3) Which famous Gothic author wrote a novel featuring the last voyage of the Demeter?
4) Name the two months of the year when Whitby holds its weekend Goth Festival?
5) Name two characters in ‘Grave Misconception’ – The McBride Murder Mysteries Book 1?
Please email your answers to felicitysnowden@yahoo.co.uk
Good luck and happy reading.
Grand prize
Next up is Rising Tide by Claudette Nicole Melanson
Three copies are up for grabs – so get sharing and spreading the
Hello all! My name is Joshua Sutton and I write Paranormal Fiction. I have two books out currently In Memory and Shadowborn. Both are part of my debut trilogy In Memory Trilogy, you’ll here a bit more about those books later on.
A little bit about me, Im a Kent based author who loves mostly anything a little nerdy, I play World of Warcraft and love all things fantasy and paranormal. I hope you all enjoy my slot my links are below:
Facebook
www.facebook.com/JoshuaSuttonAuthor
Twitter
@inmemory_book
Goodreads
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14151071.Joshua_Sutton
So now you’ve enjoyed my intro lets do an AMA!
Ever wondered what would happen if you were possessed by a demon? Demons are taking over Sarah’s mind, rendering her incapable of original thought. Will she succumb to the war that is about to explode, or will humans finally win out?
That’s only a teaser though I shall let you figure out a lil more
So this is my last post of the night. Sadly I have to go do adult things now. A HUGE thanks to Su and Maria for having me tonight. I hope you all enjoy your next guests and the rest of the event. I will now retreat to my cave to try and finish my final In Memory Trilogy book before the new year. Once again here are my links for social media etc
Facebook
www.facebook.com/JoshuaSuttonAuthor
Twitter
@inmemory_book
Hello lovely people.
Thank you to Maria and Su for orgnising this, and for letting me take part!
I am a Fantasy author based in Yokshire, and I will be giving a brief introduction to my books shortly.
Say hi below, and I’ll do my best to answer any questions!
Lots of hello’s:
WITCH-HUNTER
My first published series was the Witch-Hunter Trilogy.
The first book, The Shadow Rises, follows Hunter (I know, a witch-hunter called Hunter) and his colleagues as they stop the modern threat of witches in the UK.
The book is free to download from… well, everywhere.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Shadow-Rises-Witch-Hunter-Book-ebook/dp/B00AWRN8YQ/
This was a great little game:
WITCH-HUNTER QUIZ
Which character are you most like from the Witch-Hunter series?
Try this quick quiz!
NOT BEING A WRITER
What do you all do away from the computers and notepads? What hobbies and activities do you take part in?
I used to be a semi-professional horse-rider (a.k.a. shit-shoveller), but now I just ride m own horse for fun.
It’s the only form of stress-relief for me
🙂ENCHENA
(an ecopy of The Lost Soul can be won in the grand prize)
Enchena’s history is written by the victorious. Through war and betrayal, King Hrafn’s reign has spread across the land.
The rebellion is stirring again… In a world where the evil nature of humans has infected the very forests and animals surrounding them, they are crying out for a new hope; a new hero.
Natural enemies must come together, to overcome the curse.
Two innocent people must be brought from another world. One will bring the rebellion the way to succeed; the other will be their destruction.
WINTER TRIALS
Fancy a festive freebie? (Say that twenty times fast)
Check out the newly-released Winter Trials.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01N1G68SX/
WINTER TRIALS EXCLUSIVE
Winter Trials will be continuing with a full-length sequel at the end of 2017.
Now… you have the chance to decide what I am going to call this new series!
Select one of the options below, or create one of your own (Witchy-McWitchface will not be accepted)
😉
Don’t forget you can share as many of the prize slides as you want, comment shared in each one you do and you will be entered for the draws.
PIMP the hell out of these awesome authors.
Grand prize
Next up is In Memory by Josh Josh ‘Balders’ Sutton
One copy is up for grabs – so get sharing and spreading the
Grand prize
Next up is Shadowborn by Josh Josh ‘Balders’ Sutton
One copy is up for grabs – so get sharing and spreading the
Prizes already announced in the earlier post
These are my three novelettes that are on sale on Amazon: kindle and print copies available.
Covers designed by JC Clarke from The Graphics Shed and edited by RE Hargrave, both very talented authors also. So a shout out to both of them.
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Ma…/e/B00SDDJV1U/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0
US: https://www.amazon.com/Mari…/e/B00SDDJV1U/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0
In order to win an e-copy of any one of these I have a little game for you.
What is your fantasy villain name? The winner is the one that makes me laugh the most.
Just for fun
Feel free to add your own cheesy jokes in the comments.
From Chris Turnbull: On which side do chickens have most feathers? On the outside
From Rainne Atkins: Why was the turkey in the pop group?
Because he was the only one with drumsticks!
Now for a few teasers from ‘A Boy from the Streets’
OK so poor Maria Gibbs Author pc on the go slow so I am going to post the next prize draw slide for her Forever Love kindly donated by the lovely Laura Morgan. Thanks Laura
~*~ Rose’s Game No. 02 ~*~
Design yourself a Rose for an eBook of ‘Rainbows & Roses’
1 entry per rose name
2 entries if you can find an image to match the design colour and all
***This competition is not run by or endorsed by Facebook. ***
Click the image to open to allow you to read it better if you are like me and need your reading glasses on
Su’s Rose
Audrina Lane’s: Beautiful Apricot sweet dream!
Nicole Nixon’s: Romantic New Dawn Eminence
Carnation pink
Jean FS’: Angelic Joy Nadeshiko pink
Rainne Atkins: Enchanting Rainbow Magic Eminence
Tracey Wood: Enchanting Tuscany Superb Yellow Rose
Unfortunately when you are an Indie Author doing print on demand the costs are high so it cost me alone £10 just to get ‘Rainbows & Roses’ printed via Createspace but that is because I wanted it in Full Colour as a gift for my mum. Once I had a colour copy in my hand a black and white one would not have had the same effect
Grand prize
Next up is Carousel by Chris A Turnbull
One copy is up for grabs – so get sharing and spreading the
1 point each to finish the sentence from my website, if everyone gets them all the first person to finish will be the winner.
https://gibbsdream.wordpress.com
1) She walked out; her scarf gone, the Gypsy garb absent just an ordinary woman………………………………………………………………………..
2) I spent my formative years in Paris society, when Mother’s money had run out, ……………………………….……………………………………….
3) Pedro is offered an opportunity that is beyond his wildest dreams,……………………………………………………………………………………………
4) Lightning illuminated the sky, highlighting the crazed woman who stood outside sodden to the skin,………………………………………………………………………………………………….
The inspiration for my first novel was something that happened in my life, but the book isn’t about my life,……………………………………………………………………………………………………
Rainne Atkins1 …in jeans and jumper.
2 …and the inspiration had been muted by the Gin bottle then we lived with ‘uncles’.
3 …but to keep it means betrayal of someone he loves.
4 …black hair plastered to her face and hanging limply over her shoulders.
5 …but it gave me the inspiration to write it.
Another little teaser from ‘A Boy from the Streets’ before the cover reveal at the end of this time slot.
This is also a game. **Not endorsed by Facebook** None of the games here today have been.
You’re placed in a position where you can only pic one baby when there are twins, would you:
Pick one with a heavy heart
Say you couldn’t take either of them because you couldn’t separate them
Threaten to divorce your husband to try to make him allow you to take both
I would like you to indulge your creative streak here and give me a dialogue between Christina and her husband Fernando. The most creative answer will be gifted an e-copy or if you prefer (author option) you will be added to the back of the book as a promotion for one of your own books.
Only Su entered and she will already be getting a copy and will be mentioned in the back of my book with whatever book she wants advertised.
I would not do any of those, sorry I would appeal to his sense of humanity, his gentleness and kindness I would appeal to the man I had fallen in love with and explain that twins should never be separated and if it was too much for me to cope I would hire in a nanny.
**COVER REVEAL** coming in the next ten minutes.
Grand prize
The Dragon Dreamer by J.S Jenny Burke
One copy is up for grabs – so get sharing and spreading the
Unfortunately one of our lovely author friend is unable to join us this evening JG Clay after having broken his ankle so we are posting on his behalf.
J.G Clay is definitely a Man of Horror. There can be no doubt. Putting aside the reverence he has for the horror greats, such as King, Barker, Herbert, Carpenter, Romero and Argento, there is another fact that defines his claim for the title of the ‘Duke of Spook’. He was born on Halloween night. By a quirk fate, it was also a full moon that night. Co-incidence?
Here at Clay Towers, we don’t believe in coincidences.
The 41 year old hails from the Midlands in the United Kingdom, is married with one step child and two dogs that bear a strong resemblance to Ewoks. Beyond the page and the written word, he is music mad and can hold down a tune on a bass guitar pretty well. He is an avid reader and also has an enduring love of British sci-fi, from the pages of the ‘2000A.D’ comic to the televised wanderings of Gallifrey’s most famous physician. Clay is also a long-time fan of the mighty Birmingham City Football Club and endures a lot of flak from his friends for it.
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php…
Just for fun and to keep you rowdy lot amused while I eat, drink and be generally very merry.
Kelly L B Housden: I went to McDonald’s with my future husband because I smoked crack
Yvonne Eason: I named my cat after a gangster, because I am a ninja.
Maria: I Named my cat after a monkey because I was born that way
Chris: I took a shower with a paper bag because I smoked crack 
Kat Hayward: I punched a drunk lady because I’m a ninja.
Su: have nightmares about Oprah because I’m a ninja LOL did Dawn Singh do this I bet she was a ninja too
Dawn: I killed a clown because I was horny lol
Susan Barraclough: I got kicked out of Walmart with Eminem cos I’m a stripper. Deal with it
Jessica Rhodes: I’m deeply in love with Chuck Norris because I was born that way
James Davies: I used to date Lord Voldermort because i’m a stripper. Deal with it.
Kelly: I punched a paper bag because I’m sexy like that…
Hmph, of all the things I could’ve punched!
Jean FS: I think I am a drunk lady because I love drama! lol
If you are not sure if you are going to like horror or how dark it is there is currently a wonderful anthology currently FREE to download in which is featured J.G. Clay’s work
Rose Work in Progress W.I.P.
So when it comes to WIPs Maria is the master by far, she has so many ideas written down I lose count. For myself I am continuing with my book series although I do have something completely different I am working on that I started during NaNoWriMo. But I’ll tell you about that at the end.
To check on my WIP visit my wordpress blog it has info old and new on there. Some books have been inspired by spotting covers on the pages belonging to our wonderful cover designer JC Clarke of ‘The Graphics Shed’ check out her Etsy page
WordPress https://roseenglishukauthor.wordpress.com/
So a lovely lady told me the other day how much she loved ‘The Magic of Grandfather Time’ and would there be any more? Well the answer is YES. I have the bare bones of all the Grandfather Time Series which are based around the seasons. ‘Last Orders Jack’ was actually written before Grandfather Time but I have entered it in several competitions and because they will not allow you to enter already published books I hung on. So hopefully that will come next
.
The beautiful covers are by JC Clarke check out her Etsy store below. I must admit I was not the easiest customer she had, making a cover from scratch not like the pre-mades she is so great at. But once she had shown me the image for the first one the images came thick and fast along with the stories LOL
https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/TheGraphicsShed
I am also working on a series for ‘Lost Love’ the first story is live with an A~Z of plants for herbal remedies. Book 2 ‘Lost Love the Great War’ will feature an A~Z of flowers and their meaning again with a few myths and legends thrown in.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01N4EVCRI
Another project I am still working on is ‘Seal Mother’ a short folktale about the Selkie Seal Maiden who steps out of the sea and becomes a beautiful woman when her skin is stolen she has to live the life of a human.
I thought I was finished with the tale but I have now expanded it to two stories
‘The Great Silkie of Sule Skerry’ published in Childs Ballads late 1800s about a beautiful handsome male selkie. Found digitized in the Internet Archive
Check out my YouTube book teaser with beautiful music used with the kind permission of Karan Casey & Friends from the album ‘Seal Maiden: a Celtic Musical’
My favourite ‘The Seasons’ is composed by Ger Wolfe with vocals by Karan.
The Silkie Song’ vocals again by Karan Casey
Teaser from ‘Seal Mother’
And the background for the second story about a handsome male selkie such beautiful tales and the music is wonderful
~*~Rose’s Game No. 03~*~
For a sneak peek PDF copy of Seal Mother visit my WordPress blog, and leave a short comment below the relevant post. I would love to read your thoughts
https://roseenglishukauthor.wordpress.com/
How time flies when you are having fun, our lovely friend Chris is up next so we can take a short break for food. So thanks Chris and I’ll see you soon folks ENJOY
Grand prize – Last prize
A Lifetime or a Season by Maria Gibbs
One copy is up for grabs – so get sharing and spreading the
*´¨)
¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.•´ (¸.•` Hello and thank you to Rose English UK Author and Maria Gibbs Author for inviting me to take part this evening – You ladies are doing a fabulous job!
For those of you who don’t know me I’m Chris Turnbull Author. I am from York, UK and I mostly write ‘Historical Fiction’.
My books are quite different, from two time travel stories, to a Victorian Murder novel.
This year I published my first children’s book with the help of artist Rebecca Dasilvaline.
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/…/e/B00UFW8R…/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2…
US: http://www.amazon.com/Chris-Turnbu…/…/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1…
★✩★ Chris Turnbull Author ★✩★
My first published book ’The Vintage Coat’ is a time travel story set between modern day Alston , Cumbria; and WW2.
If you could travel in time where would you go and why?
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/…/e/B00UFW8R…/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2…
US: http://www.amazon.com/Chris-Turnbu…/…/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1…
★✩★ Chris Turnbull Author ★✩★
Some teasers from ’The Vintage Coat’…
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/…/e/B00UFW8R…/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2…
US: http://www.amazon.com/Chris-Turnbu…/…/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1…
★✩★ Chris Turnbull Author ★✩★
Just for fun…answer me this question!
★✩★ Chris Turnbull Author ★✩★
My second book is a much darker tale, and is set in the beautiful harbor town of Whitby. Cover and Internal designs by Joe Hunt.
Blurb: LESS than 3 years after the release of Bram
Stokers novel Dracula, Whitby is tormented
by a diehard fan who sees Dracula as his
role model; and it isn’t long before women
are being murdered, and the residents of
Whitby are scared to leave their homes.
WHEN a young lady from London, who has
travelled to Whitby with her new husband,
is targeted, it is a race against time to catch
this cloaked monster before he kills again
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/…/e/B00UFW8R…/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2…
US: http://www.amazon.com/Chris-Turnbu…/…/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1…
★✩★ Chris Turnbull Author ★✩★
A few fun teasers from D: Whitby’s Darkest Secret
Thank you to Rose English UK Author for creating these ❤
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/…/e/B00UFW8R…/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2…
US: http://www.amazon.com/Chris-Turnbu…/…/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1…
★✩★ Chris Turnbull Author ★✩★
Just for fun!…As it is only a week away and all
Maria: Sparkle McBlizzard.
Chris: Bells McSnowy
Carl Turnbull: Bells McChilly
Sherri A Wingler: Hope McGlisten!
Kelly Housden: Candy mcbauble
Denise Robbins: Tinkle McSnowflake
Joanne Rosser: Festive mcfreeze
Su: Hope McSlushy
Jean: Festive McSparkie!!
★✩★ Chris Turnbull Author ★✩★
In July 2016 I was lucky enough to be a part of UK Indie Lit Fest #indiearmy– This was a great event bringing together a wide selection on the UK’s best writing talents. As part of the event some authors submitted a piece for an event Anthology, which is now available on Amazon to puchase.
My contribution was a short prequel to my Whitby story, which can be read in the Anthology, or can be purchased separately.
Author’s keep your eye’s peeled for next years event which will be advertised very soon!
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/…/e/B00UFW8R…/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2…
US: http://www.amazon.com/Chris-Turnbu…/…/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1…
★✩★ Chris Turnbull Author ★✩★
I would like to take a quick moment to talk about a charity fund raising event I did this past year. Back in June, after 6 months of fund raising I cut off my hair and beard for charity. This was quite a big thing for me to do and it scared the life out of me because I have a phobia of hair cuts (sounds silly, but I really do hate scissors close to my ears)…not to mention the fear of looking so silly after loosing the hair and beard in one go.
I was really hoping to raise £1000 for two charities (Cystic Fibrosis + Support Dogs). And I am pleased to say that after 6 months of hounding people, and a successful garden party on the day of the shave, I raised a massive £1,400 (including gift aid)
A HUGE THANK YOU to all who supported not only me, but these incredible charities
★✩★ Chris Turnbull Author ★✩★
This year I went back to my roots by releasing another Time-Travel book. This time taking us back to 1889 Paris.
BLURB: Jonathan was supposed to be getting married today, but instead he is in Paris; and what’s worse he is now over 120 years in the past.
Transported back by an old amusement carousel, Jonathan finds his life turned upside down as he finds himself stuck in 1889.
Desperate to return home, he goes in search of the carousel. Although his wish to return is high, he soon learns that his reasons to stay could be just as compelling.
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/…/e/B00UFW8R…/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2…
US: http://www.amazon.com/Chris-Turnbu…/…/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1…
★✩★ Chris Turnbull Author ★✩★
Just for fun…CAPTION THIS PICTURE!
Maria: sn’t that the thing that makes you wet the bed?!
Dawn: This flower smells like butt
Carl: Dont give me that…i weed on that earlier.
Denise: There’s a bee in there!
Robert Glide: I don’t like butter
Jean: That’s not Food! Don’t you pay attention to the warnings!!
★✩★ Chris Turnbull Author ★✩★
Back in October I was lucky enough to release my first ever children’s book: A Home For Emy.
This project meant so much to me, not only because it is based on true events (and is my dog) but because this book had been written for over 4 years, and finally being able to release her to you was a dream come true ❤
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/…/e/B00UFW8R…/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2…
US: http://www.amazon.com/Chris-Turnbu…/…/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1…
★✩★ Chris Turnbull Author ★✩★
Here are some of the internal pages of A Home For Emy
All the incredible artwork for the book was done by Dasilvaline…check out Bekki’s page and give it a LIKE
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/…/e/B00UFW8R…/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2…
US: http://www.amazon.com/Chris-Turnbu…/…/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1
★✩★ Chris Turnbull Author ★✩★
It would appear my time is up already…
…Thank you again Rose English UK Author and Maria Gibbs Author for putting on an incredible evening of fun.
Maria posted a competition earlier to WIN an ebook copy of CAROUSEL, so don’t forget to enter that. AND by commenting on any of my posts from the last 30 minutes you will be entered to win a Paperback copy of A Home For Emy.
Enjoy the rest of your evening guys
Thank you for having me! Now we’ve got a bit of time for something dark 😉 Let me introduce myself. I’m Laura Morgan, author of dark novels such as my Black Rose series ❤ I even have a #freebook Look, if you dare
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01HAKBX08?tag=geolinker-21
A little about me… I love edgy, gritty books that strip your heart and soul bare and leave you with an epic book hangover at the end. That’s what I aim to do with mine, and I think my readers agree! At times they’re dark and controversial, but that’s also what makes them unique.
Tell me, do you enjoy dark reads? I hope so haha
So, I have three different series available. One of which is my dark paranormal Black Rose series, and another that is contemporary romance with a crime edge to it. Tell me, have you met Leonardo Solomon yet? He’s a narcissistic gangster who’s nothing but bad news, but somehow he might just be what tortured soul Cassie Taylor needs…
Book two is now available to buy on Kindle and both are available on KU
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Forever-Loved-Lost-Book-ebook/dp/B01H5VBZJG/?tag=geolinker-21
Just for fun… Tell me, are you a sufferer too haha!
Su: Oh year several I love Asher from ‘Wings of Darkness
Maria: Comte Joffrey de Peyrac from the Angelique series by Sergeanne Golon
Sherri: Rochester from Jane Eyre was my first love.
Jean: Oh yeah and no cure for this.. Need books to keep me going on those days there’s nothing to watch on tv.
So, as you’ve all seen, Rose and I have been taking some stunning pictures lately… We’re both participating in a charity calendar for 2017 and I have to say, we all loved the entire process! Don’t forget, you can get your copies here and ALL proceeds will be donated to charity, so all for a more than worthwhile cause x
http://www.lulu.com/shop/pin-up-calendar/calendar/product-22965806.html
Now for something entirely different lol…
I also have a dystopian science fiction series written under my pen name LC Morgans. It’s a story set a thousand years in the future, in which humans have used and abused the planet beyond repair to both the earth itself and to society. Close to cataclysm, an alien race called the Thrakorian’s step in, but at a price. The human race is enslaved to their new masters, albeit willingly, and this is the story of a young girl and her journey into adulthood beneath their reign…
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B013B6JZBE?tag=geolinker-21
As was posted earlier, you guys are in with a chance of winning an ebook of my novel Forever Lost, so please stay tuned to find out if you’ve won. I hope whoever the winner is falls in love with them just like I did! ❤ You can find out more about Cassie and Leo on their amazon page, and here’s a cheeky teaser for the story too xx http://viewbook.at/ForeverLost
Thanks so much for having me. It’s been great fun. Please don’t forget to stop by my page and give me a like so we can keep this going! xx www.facebook.com/lauramorganauthor
I’m going to give you a couple more teasers for ‘A Boy from the Streets’
To be in with a chance of winning an e copy, go to my Amazon page and follow me, then comment done in the thread.
US: https://www.amazon.com/Mari…/e/B00SDDJV1U/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Ma…/e/B00SDDJV1U/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0
This will be my last post.
A little excerpt from another WIP ‘Is this Love?’ which is book one of two the second is also partially written with a working title of ‘Illicit Love’:
(unedited)
Is this Love?
My day started with a needle being stuck in my arm; of course technically it didn’t it I was at home in bed with my wife. I watched as her eyelids fluttered open. I was struck anew by the piercing blue eyes that sought mine straight away as they had every morning in the five years we’d been together. Her long blond hair fanned the pillow. I reached out and touched the silky softness of it knowing that I wouldn’t wake up next to her for the next four mornings. It was a poignant moment rather like yesterday at her scan finding out that we would be having twins.
A smile touched the corner of my lips as I thought about the perfection of the day before; suddenly being a father was a real prospect, and I knew I had to be around to witness it. I wanted to teach my children to play football, to go to the park and push them on swings and whatever else a father is supposed to do.
The way I saw my day starting though was with that needle, drawing out my blood to send it to the laboratory for tests before my regimen commenced. This was followed by them collecting stem cells to be replaced after treatment and a run through of what to expect.
“This is the room that you’ll be in for the next five days.” The nurse informed me cheerfully as though she had given me the key to a suite at the Ritz.
My first impression was of the soulless quality of the room and the three patients already ensconced in their places. One man lay back on the bed and the other two sat on large padded upright armchairs.
“Welcome.”
“Hey.”
“Come on in.”
The three voices welcomed me in unison.
It didn’t take me long to work out that this room wasn’t soulless. It might not be the Ritz, but it contained a character of its own; supportive, like a blanket placed around someone after an accident. My fellow “inmates” were Joe, Thomas and Christopher. Joe sat on the bed on his second cycle of treatment, pale, gaunt; every inch the advertisement of what to look forward to from chemotherapy. Thomas, a rugged redhead with ruddy cheeks and Christopher, whose skin was the shade of ebony and whose smile stretched across his face, were both on day two of their first course of chemo. A bond grew between us very quickly. Gemma said that the room contained magic. I came to see that she was right.
I was told that it may be a little uncomfortable when they inserted the cannula into my vein, but I can’t say that I really noticed it. The thing that I came to dread was the drip, drip, drip of the drugs, sliding like a snake beneath my skin. On the first day, it was Etoposide and Cisplatin, drip, drip, drip, crawling, writhing through my system, mingling with my blood, flowing through me. I was also given anti-emetics which I was told would combat or lessen the vomiting.
Days two, three, four and five: the same combination of drugs with the addition of Bleomycin on day two. The routines of the days were the same: a tedium only broken by the other patients and the visits of the wives. I don’t think I had ever realised how long twenty four hours could be. Part of me thought I should appreciate every moment since time was precious, but that didn’t account for having a needle in your arm with a steady stream of poison flowing through your veins. The only other sound that filtered through was the beep when the drip bag needed changing.
“Have you seen that website… oh, what’s the name again?” Joe pondered for a few moments, I could almost see the cogs going around in his head, “… the one set up by testicular cancer survivors? It’s on the tip of my tongue… Check ‘em boys that’s it.”
“Yeah, my mate Jake told me about it,” I answered, conscious of a metallic taste in my mouth.
“Has he had testicular cancer too then?” Christopher was looking nauseous and I could see he needed some distraction.
“No. It’s his way of feeling useful if he finds out everything then he can ensure I know it all.”
“It’s difficult to take it all in.” Christopher leaned forward suddenly but then looked like he regretted it as he returned to his original position.
“I have to know everything,” said Joe, the “only way I could feel like I was doing something. I hate feeling that I have no control. I haven’t stopped reading since I found out.”
“It doesn’t seem to sink in for me,” I admitted, “small bites work better than huge chunks. I seem to drift off into a dream world after a couple of minutes.”
~*~Rose’s Game No. 04 ~*~
So like I promised here is my latest WIP and I am giving away 5 PDF copies of ‘Shoe Shorts’ this is a project I started as this year’s November ‘NaNoWriMo’ Challenge. The idea, as many here will know is to write a novel or whatever in 50,000 over the course of one month, that being November. I just about scrapped through and completed the challenge and have the bare bones of a new book. The cover is from the teasing designer JC Clarke who constantly tempts us with her beautiful creations. Read the slide to see what you need to do 🙂
https://roseenglishukauthor.wordpress.com/
There will be an added entry for the PDF Short Shoe story ‘One Night in Fabulous Shoes’ if you can tell me what shoes the story is about. Visit the blog then post below. Also I would love to read your thoughts on my blog.
https://roseenglishukauthor.wordpress.com/
Please guys help me finish the truffles and Champagne and take some balloons home with you.
~*~Final Joint Game~*~
Now for our final game of the evening and this is going to take a little bit of thought but there is a couple of surprise prizes up for grabs read the slide to see what you need to do. Have fun
Thank you to everyone who has joined in the fun tonight, everyone who has supported us and befriended us over the last year and to those we met today.
The competitions are staying open even though we are shutting down and winners will be announced on Tuesday night.
Thank you everyone for joining us this evening to help us celebrate the love of Books and to hopefully introduce you to some new reads. As Maria mentioned Games are Open until Tuesday so do scroll down and check what you missed. Happy Reading and hope you have a wonderful Christmas. Winners announced Tuesday
Maria Gibbs 