R is for Reading #AtoZChallenge

This year my A to Z Challenge is all about wellbeing - something I'm particularly passionate about. Whether it's physical, emotional, mental, spiritual or even the wellbeing of my business, I want to lean more! Today it's all about Reading :D

I LOVE reading. I always have. It's one of the best ways to relax. To dive into a book, into another world and live the lives of those characters that have developed in your head. It's magical, don't you think? 

I've read thousands of books over the years and my tastes often change - I suppose it depends on my mood too. When I first started getting serious about books, I guess I was about 11 or 12 years old, I would devour everything I could get my hands on - which wasn't easy considering we'd just moved to the Algarve and English books were few and far between. The charity shop was the easiest option. I read every Jilly Cooper novel out there back then and I learned a few things from her (wink, wink). Then I discovered Sweet Valley High, Mills & Moon (lol) and every book my mother and father owned at the time which ranged from Danielle Steel, Michael Korda (Queenie was one of my all time favourites), Jackie Collins (I wanted to be Lucky Santagelo)), Shirley Conran (remember Lace?) to horror books by Dennis Wheatley and Stephen King! Some of my more unusual favourites included Islands in the Sky by Arthur C. Clarke, Z for Zachariah by Robert C O' Brien, A Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood and Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden.

Some of my old favourite reads... most from YEARS ago!!

But then I discovered Chick Lit and I was in my element. I loved the humour, the pathos, the unique quirky characters and ultimately: the love stories. So I read primarily chick lit until another genre presented itself to me: YA. Sigh... I was a grown up but it didn't matter, I just loved the innocence and the fantasy elements of these books targeted at young adults. Harry Potter and Twilight totally won me over. But I never forget my roots and I still find myself reading all manner of genres. Basically I just love a great story, although I prefer a happy ending. I can't be doing with books that'll make me cry my eyes out at the end (unless they're happy tears, of course). I don't mind a bit of sadness in the middle but the end needs to sparkle, which is why I write the books I write. I want my readers to be happy. I want them to close the book and be content with the finale and ultimately I want them to want to read more of my novels! And on that note, have you read any of them? I write YA and chick lit / contemporary romance. Check them out here. A couple of them are FREE you know? ;)

The Raven Saga & The Morgan Sisters: Now available as boxed sets!

I'm super excited to announce that The Raven Saga and The Morgan Sisters are now available as ebook boxed sets - just in time for Christmas! Both sets are priced at a reduced cost making them perfect Christmas gifts for lovers of YA urban fantasy. If you have friends or family who love Harry Potter, then these sets are perfect for you (or so I've been told)!

The Morgan Sisters

Books 1-4 of The Morgan Sisters

THE GHOST OF JOSIAH GRIMSHAW

Adopted sisters Lana Beth and Emma Jane are polar opposites, but when the same strange 'tattoo' suddenly appears and winds its way up their bodies within days of each other, they soon realize there's more to their relationship than they could ever have imagined.
Sent off to London for two weeks of 'work experience', the Morgan Sisters soon find themselves being initiated into the ancient Praxos Foundation, one that protects the innocent while fighting evil, both human and supernatural.
At the same time, Lana Beth and Emma Jane must also investigate why the sweet but sometimes pesky ghost of Josiah Grimshaw just won't leave them alone.

DAISY MADIGAN'S PARADISE

When tragedy falls upon 15 year old Daisy Madigan, she escapes to the only place she feels safe, the cemetery of Abney Park. There, in the company of the dearly departed, she realizes she is changing, growing stronger and faster by the day. But in the darkness lurks a terror even she can't imagine facing.

THE TEMPORAL STONE

It's been a couple of months since Emma and Lana entered the Praxos Academy and life has been hectic ever since. What with regular A level classes combined with learning all about the supernatural world, control classes, self defence and fight night, the girls are constantly busy.
But when their world seems to stop right in front of them, they and their fellow Watchers, have a huge mystery to solve. A mystery which will lead them on a long road trip across south west England where they will meet all kinds of strange creatures, some intent on causing harm and others desperate to put a stop to the problem.

LOOKING FOR LUCY JO

It's their first Christmas since entering the Praxos Academy and 16-year-old sisters Lana Beth and Emma Jane Morgan are looking forward to some serious R&R. But when their little sister mysteriously disappears from her bed on Christmas Eve, all thoughts of fun disappear with her. Emma and Lana must do everything in their power to locate her and bring her home safely. Easier said than done, they are forced to go on yet another journey, this time taking them out to the murky depths of the North Sea as well as to the far reaches of southern Portugal.

˃˃˃ "I would go so far as to say that this could be the beginnings of a series as good as those by J.K. Rowling!"
˃˃˃ "I loved the bad guys, the graveyard antics, the talking dead, the superpowers of the kick-a** ninja chicks, and the rite of initiation the sisters go through"

The Raven Saga

Books 1-3 of The Raven Saga

RAVEN

After the inexplicable disappearance of Lilly Taylor's parents, she has no choice but to move to Canada where she unravels some frightening yet intriguing family secrets...
Her whole life had been based on a lie. Lilly had grown up in a loveless home with a father who she had barely ever seen and a mother who was... well, not very motherly.
After they mysteriously disappear without a trace, Lilly is sent to Canada where she finds a whole new way of life. A life filled with love and people who care for her. But that's not all she discovers, Lilly also finds out that she isn't who, or what, she thinks she is.
Lilly has a very special ability and it's just a matter of time before her true self starts to shine. And when it does, her life will never be the same again.
Raven is a fantasy novel for children and young adults set in the beautiful province of British Columbia.

DECEMBER MOON

On her 15th birthday, December Moon discovers she is the descendant of a family of witches, kept in the dark her entire life in an effort to protect her. But when Lilly, her best friend, finds herself in danger from one of the world's most evil vampires, December will do everything in her power to stop him. December Moon is a fantasy novel for children and young adults set in BC, Canada.

THE LOST SOUL

December and Lilly have got their work cut out for them. Not only are they desperately trying to figure out the identity of the Lost Soul, and track him down, they've also got to investigate why Powell River's newest resident has got all of their men falling at her feet.
But when they learn that the Nephilim might be involved, it becomes clear that they're all in extreme danger...

About Suzy

Although Suzy is a Yorkshire lass at heart, she left her home town of Rotherham, UK, to move to Portugal with her family when she was ten. The Algarve continues to be her home, where she lives with her childhood sweetheart, Michael, two neurotic dogs and a cat who thinks she's a princess.
Shortly after completing her studies, Suzy was offered the position of trainee journalist for a local English newspaper. Her love of writing developed and a few years later she moved on to become assistant editor for the region's largest English language publisher. Since then she has also worked as the editor of one of the Algarve's most loved monthly lifestyle magazines. Early in 2010 however, Suzy began working as a full time author. She has since written several books: Raven, December Moon, The Lost Soul (The Raven Saga), Daisy Madigan's Paradise, The Ghost of Josiah Grimshaw, The Temporal Stone, Looking for Lucy Jo (The Morgan Sisters), Forever Fredless and And Then There Was You (for adults only!).

Website: www.suzyturner.com
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/suzyturner
Facebook: www.facebook.com/suzyturnerbooks
Facebook Romance: http://www.facebook.com/suzyturnerromance
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/suzy_turner
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/suzyturnerbooks
YA Blog: http://www.suzyturner.blogspot.com
Chick Lit Blog: http://www.fictiondreams.com

Looking for Lucy Jo is OUT NOW!! WOOP WOOP!!

I am absolutely beyond excited to share my latest book in The Morgan Sisters series, Looking For Lucy Jo. Which is OUT NOW!! SQUEAL!!!
The awesome cover was designed by the amazingly talented, Ravven. 

Looking for Lucy Jo
Series: The Morgan Sisters
Release Date: September 20th
Genre: YA Urban Fantasy
It's their first Christmas since entering the Praxos Academy and 16-year-old sisters Lana Beth and Emma Jane Morgan are looking forward to some serious R&R. But when their little sister mysteriously disappears from her bed on Christmas Eve, all thoughts of fun disappear with her. Emma and Lana must do everything in their power to locate her and bring her home safely. Easier said than done, they are forced to go on yet another journey, this time taking them out to the murky depths of the North Sea as well as to the far reaches of southern Portugal.

Amazon US
Amazon UK
Barnes & Noble - coming soon
Smashwords
ibooks - coming soon
Kobo - coming soon

Cover Designer: Ravven.

Previous books in the series:

The Ghost of Josiah Grimshaw

Adopted sisters Lana Beth and Emma Jane are polar opposites, but when the same strange 'tattoo' suddenly appears and winds its way up their bodies within days of each other, they soon realize there's more to their relationship than they could ever have imagined.
Sent off to London for two weeks of 'work experience', the Morgan Sisters soon find themselves being initiated into the ancient Praxos Foundation, one that protects the innocent while fighting evil, both human and supernatural.
At the same time, Lana Beth and Emma Jane must also investigate why the sweet but sometimes pesky ghost of Josiah Grimshaw just won't leave them alone.

What people are saying about The Ghost of Josiah Grimshaw

"I would go so far as to say that this book could be the beginnings of a series as good as those by J.K. Rowling!"

"This book is a great start to a potentially brilliant series"

"I loved the bad guys, the graveyard antics, the talking dead, the superpowers of the kick-a** ninja chicks, and the rite of initiation the sisters go through"

The Ghost of Josiah Grimshaw, FREE on Amazon

Daisy Madigan's Paradise (a novella)

When tragedy falls upon 15 year old Daisy Madigan, she escapes to the only place she feels safe, the cemetery of Abney Park. There, in the company of the dearly departed, she realizes she is changing, growing stronger and faster by the day. But in the darkness lurks a terror even she can't imagine facing.

What people are saying about Daisy Madigan's Paradise

"Wonderful addition to the Morgan Sisters series! I might suggest reading The Ghost of Josiah Grimshaw first, but this should stand on its own even if you haven't. Such a lovely, well written story - I highly recommend it and all of her books."

"A fantastically evocative YA novella perfect for both younger and older teens."

Daisy Madigan's Paradise, FREE on Amazon

The Temporal Stone

It's been a couple of months since Emma and Lana entered the Praxos Academy and life has been hectic ever since. What with regular A level classes combined with learning all about the supernatural world, control classes, self defence and fight night, the girls are constantly busy.
But when their world seems to stop right in front of them, they and their fellow Watchers, have a huge mystery to solve. A mystery which will lead them on a long road trip across south west England where they will meet all kinds of strange creatures, some intent on causing harm and others desperate to put a stop to the problem.

What people are saying about The Temporal Stone

"Suzy has done it again! Her books get better and better.... this had me gripped from the start!"

"Another great read, this is the third Morgan Sisters book I have read and I loved them all. Can't wait for more."

The Temporal Stone, Amazon

About the author

Although Suzy is a Yorkshire lass at heart, she left her home town of Rotherham, UK, to move to Portugal with her family when she was ten. The Algarve continues to be her home, where she lives with her childhood sweetheart, Michael, two neurotic dogs and a cat who thinks she's a princess.

Shortly after completing her studies, Suzy was offered the position of trainee journalist for a local English newspaper. Her love of writing developed and a few years later she moved on to become assistant editor for the region's largest English language publisher. Since then she has also worked as the editor of one of the Algarve's most loved monthly lifestyle magazines. Early in 2010 however, Suzy began working as a full time author. She has since written several books: Raven, December Moon, The Lost Soul (The Raven Saga), Daisy Madigan's Paradise, The Ghost of Josiah Grimshaw, The Temporal Stone (The Morgan Sisters) and Forever Fredless.

Website
Goodreads
Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest
YA Blog
Chick Lit Blog

Why I write what I write

When I first started writing, I didn't really know that I would end up specialising in books that would appeal to all age groups. In principle, I was writing for myself. Writing what I loved to read – books that aren't full of swearing, sex and unnecessary violence (okay, the Raven Saga does have a little fighting vampires but I did keep it to a minimum without realising it).

Is that really necessary?
I'm not the kind of person that enjoys hearing curse words all the time. Yes, occasionally I do swear. Of course I do. I wouldn't be human if I didn't. Well, not really. So when it comes up so much in the movies, it makes me cringe. I have a line that I use a lot (it drives my husband crazy – especially if I use it when he's driving too fast)... 'Is that really necessary?' I find myself thinking it all the time when I'm watching something too violent, with too much effing this and blinding that in it. The same thing applies to certain sex scenes. If a scene requires sex in it, I won't want it to be blatantly shoved in my face. I want to leave something to the imagination. Don't you? Maybe it's because I do have such a vivid imagination? I dunno. Perhaps other people need it to be shoved in their faces?
I'm not such a prude that I'll stop watching – if it's a great TV series, book or movie, then fine. I can put up with it. Game of Thrones, for instance, is one of my favourites – but when they have all those really intense sex scenes.... WOAH! Calma... people.... Calma. It's just OTT. It's not really necessary. I can understand most of the violence in that show, but the sex? Nah...just cut it back a bit... please. After all, kids do watch it. Even if they're not supposed to, I guarantee that they are.
Speaking of kids, they are my target market. Especially for my YA books. That's what YA means, after all – Young Adults. And I reckon that's anyone from age 10 ish, right? And, like I mentioned before, I want my books to be read by ALL age groups. A mother and daughter could sit and read any of my books together and not be embarrassed or shocked by the content. Even my chick lit book, Forever Fredless, has broader appeal because of this very reason. There is a 'near' sex scene and very little swearing, so it's ideal for a young teen who wants to start reading chick lit without being chastised by her parents by her choice of reading.

Warm and fuzzy

When I choose to read a book, I want to be left feeling all warm and fuzzy inside. I want to be entertained, to be taken to another world (whether it's to a fantasy land or just inside the mind of someone else), I want the ending to leave me feeling like I've been enchanted. And that's exactly what I want my books to make readers feel. When I read reviews that tell me a reader felt this way, that makes me go all warm and fuzzy inside too. And that is the best feeling in the world (apart from the feeling I get when my husband gives me a warm and loving hug – but it's a close second!).
Naturally, ultimately I want to sell books and if I can reach a wide audience by appealing to more age groups, then I reckon I'm doing something right.

I'm not, and never will be, E.L James

I can't imagine writing something so deep in the world of S&M and sexual mind games! It's just not me or my cup of tea. I tried to read the book but it left me feeling somewhat disappointed, so I gave up. Kudos to her though – I think it's astounding what she has achieved and I think she's amazing for doing that. I'm more of a J.K Rowling myself though ;)
I have been convinced by a fellow author to try and read some erotic chick lit, which I plan on doing, just to see what all the fuss is about, but I know it's not something I want to write myself, not even under a pseudonym.

Dilemma

So even though I want my books to appeal to all ages, I do have a little bit of a dilemma at the moment because my next chick lit book (which I've been kind of planning for a while now), is set in a sex shop. I know, it kind of complicates things a little. However, if I write like I wrote Forever Fredless, then it should still be okay for younger audiences – but perhaps not as young as ten! I guess it depends on how open minded the child's parents are lol. The premise for the book is really quite fun and I don't intend to have any sex scenes in it – it's purely set within a shop that just happens to sell sexy stuff. What do you think? Bearing in mind that I've never marketed my chick lit book to children – I've just been told by readers that it would appeal to teens too. Hm? Something to think about, anyway!

Indie Life: The Eye of Praxos

It's been a funny couple of months since I was last able to post something for Indie Life. My whole routine went out the window. I was supposed to be writing my next YA book and my next Chick Lit book (I have started both of them though, so don't worry!) but then I was completely sucked into a whole different project. I've mentioned it a few times already but it's a movie based on one of my books. Well, based on my series, The Morgan Sisters. It's meant to be a short movie (about 15 to 20 minutes long) and we're making it here in the Algarve - which in itself has given us some challenges considering the books are set primarily in or around London! But we're coping okay. So far we've shot quite a few scenes in the back of people's gardens - wild gardens, I might add! Everyone involved in the project, which now has a name by the way - The Eye of Praxos - is offering their time up free of charge which is just amazing.
We have some really talented people on board - not just the actors (who are AWESOME), but those people behind the scenes too, music, sound, camera, assistant directors, extras - the lot! And then of course there's the awesome locations we've been lucky enough to have. The local private hospital allowed us to shoot several scenes within one of their rooms (as well as the corridor). We are so very lucky and very excited about it all!
I feel truly blessed at the moment, to be able to work on something like this. I mean, this is a movie! And it's based on my books! And I wrote the script! It can't get much cooler... can it?
For now though, we are taking a break for Christmas. We'll be resuming filming towards the end of January and I'm pretty excited about that too! I can't wait.
For now though, here are some stills from The Eye of Praxos (oh, almost forgot, do come along and 'like' our FB page to find out more as we progress).

Huge thanks to:
Cindy and Paul for offering up their garden for some of the scenes. Check out their amazing holiday villa: http://www.algarvehomes.org/
The Hospital Particular do Algarve for allowing us to shoot an important scene there.
The owner of Quinta das Quatro Abelhas for giving us his awesome garden for some of the creepier scenes.

Pedro Frias for being such an awesome director and musician.

Sammy Sheehan for her amazing makeup and prop-making skills!

Emma Rossi for her beautiful voice - for flying all the way over to Portugal help us create the music!
Everybody else who has helped out in some way with the movie. I'm looking forward to working with you all again in January :)Sign up to the Indie Life newsletter here.

Indie Author Series: To Free Or Not To Free

I'm a huge believer in giving away ebooks for free. In fact I credit this marketing ploy with making The Raven Saga such a bestseller in the first place.

When I first started on this journey to become an indie author, it was tough, really tough, to get myself out there and find the readers I craved. However, after reading up on marketing tactics and so on, I figured I'd try the old 'loss leader' approach by giving away the first book in the series. Since then Raven has been downloaded probably well over 100,000 times! Cool huh?
Unfortunately, this hasn't had the same effect on my second series when I made both the novella (Daisy Madigan's Paradise) and the first full length book in the series (The Ghost of Josiah Grimshaw) free. Although downloads are constant, they're nowhere near as many as for Raven. Its tough to know what to do next. I do have some ideas up my sleeve but work is so hectic at the moment, it's difficult to find the time to dedicate the right amount of time to everything! When I talk about work, I'm talking about writing, promoting my books AND blogging. Since creating my women's fiction blog, Fiction Dreams, I've barely had time to think!
It's becoming hugely popular what with my exclusive interviews with some of the top female authors out there including Joanne Harris, Paige Toon, Mangy Baggot, Amanda Egan, Jinx Schwartz, Lois Winston, etc. I've even got one with Gena Showalter soon!!!
I've also just launched my very first chick lit novel, Forever Fredless! Eeeeeeekkkkkk! But on that soon :)
In the meantime, pop on over to my colleagues at the Indie Author Club and find out what they think about going down the 'free' route!

1. Laura A. H. Elliott 

2. T. R. Graves, Author of The Warrior Series
3. Suzy Turner, author of The Raven Saga 

4. Rachel Coles, author of Into The Ruins, geek mom blog
5. Gwenn Wright, author of Filter 

6. Liz Long | Just another writer on the loose.
7. Ella James 

8. Maureen Murrish
9. YA Sci Fi Author's Ramblings 

10. A Little Bit of R&R
11. Melissa Pearl 

12. Terah Edun - YA Fantasy
13. Author Cindy C Bennett

The Praxos Eye

 For those of you that have read some of The Morgan Sisters books, you might recognize this image...

Yes, it's the Praxos eye! I commissioned an old friend, Phil, to design an image for me and this is his interpretation. Isn't it absolutely stunning?! Phil specializes in tattoo design which is certainly apt considering the Praxos Eye is a tattoo that forms on the lower backs of the Watchers. If you'd like to be put in touch with Phil just let me know and I'll introduce you. He's incredibly talented and his rates are very reasonable.
I'm over the moon with his design! Can you tell? lol
I will be placing this image inside all of The Morgan Sisters books soon :D
Please like Phil's page on facebook ... he's only just created it and could use some love!

The Temporal Stone is out now!

I'm absolutely, ecstatically delighted to announce the release of my latest book, The Temporal Stone, a Morgan Sisters novel... YAY!! Read on for the synopsis and excerpt and then go grab yourself a copy for just $2.99. If you've not read any of the Morgan Sisters books yet, then grab a FREE copy of Daisy Madigan's Paradise to see what it's all about! Once you've finished that, The Ghost of Josiah Grimshaw comes next.
Don't forget to check out all those awesome reviews on Amazon about the series!

Cover by the fabulous designer Ravven

Synopsis

It's been a couple of months since Emma and Lana entered the Praxos Academy and life has been hectic ever since. What with regular A level classes combined with learning all about the supernatural world, control classes, self defence and fight night, the girls are constantly busy.
But when their world seems to stop right in front of them, they and their fellow Watchers, have a huge mystery to solve. A mystery which will lead them on a long road trip across south west England where they will meet all kinds of strange creatures, some intent on causing harm and others desperate to put a stop to the problem.

Excerpt

Stretching her long pale limbs beneath the warm duvet cover, Emma let out a deep yawn and climbed out of bed. She strolled over to Lana and shook her vigorously just as Moira appeared out of the bathroom towel-drying her hair.
'She'll be late again,' she chuckled as she walked past.
Emma rolled her eyes.
'Come on, Sis. Time to get up, we've got to be ready earlier this morning, remember?'
A faint moan could be heard from beneath the covers. Emma shook her head.
'Come on, get up lazy bones.'
'No, it's too early,' grumbled Lana who rolled over comfortably.
'Well, if you're not up and ready soon, you'll miss out on our trip to Somerset with the rest of the class,' Emma replied with her eyebrows raised as she slowly walked towards the bathroom, a towel slung over her shoulder.
The covers were immediately flung back and Lana groaned with an excited grin. 'Somerset here we come,' she smiled before she hopped up, threw on her dressing gown and began emptying her wardrobe frantically trying to find just the right outfit to wear.

oOo

Hand in gloved hand with her boyfriend, Diarmuid, Emma stood dressed entirely in black and purple, her dark hair was tied back in two simple plaits and a checked woolly hat perched on top of her head. Noticing she was shivering, Diarmuid pulled her close and rubbed her arms up and down while she laughed. He then pulled her into a more secluded spot, allowing a faint glow to emanate from his body. Warmth immediately embraced them both.
'Better?' he asked.
'Hm hm,' Emma nodded as she leaned her head on his shoulder.
As they waited for the rest of the gang, Lana walked up the steps that led down into the Academy. With a huge grin plastered across her face, she walked over to her sister where she turned this way and that. Emma shook her head, laughing.
'Well?' asked Lana.
'Yeah Sis, you look amazing. Is that the new dress you bought last week?'
'It is. It's gorgeous isn't it?'
'Let's just say, it's very you. I wouldn't wear it though!' laughed Emma as Diarmuid wolf whistled from behind her.
'Well of course you wouldn't. It's not black or purple and it's a dress,' she joked as she put her long brown coat back on over the leopard print, long-sleeved dress which was a little inappropriate for a field trip across the country.
Moments later, Declan Alexander appeared from within the building, rubbing his hands together. A group of teens trailed behind him.
He turned as he approached, 'Come on guys, gather round. We're walking round to Russell Square where we'll be hopping on to the Tube to Paddington Station. From there we'll get the train to Bath, so make sure you've all got your Oyster cards ready before we leave.'
When they'd finished fishing around in their pockets and handbags and Declan was content everyone had what was needed to take the trip, they exited the well hidden entrance to the Academy and joined the rest of the commuters within the capital.

Purchase Links

AMAZON US
AMAZON UK
SMASHWORDS
(other retailers and paperback coming soon)

Feature Follow Friday

The Feature & Follow is hosted by TWO hosts, Parajunkee of Parajunkee's View and Alison of Alison Can Read. Its my first time taking part but I'm delighted to link up with so many awesome bloggers!

To follow me, you're welcome to do so via Bloglovin (my favourite), Networked Blogs or email (!). You can also find my on facebook and twitter.

In light of the recent Mother's Day, today's featured question is 'Who is your favourite fictional Mum (or Mom depending on where you're from!)? 

Ooh, that's a tough one. I adore Mrs Weasley (who doesn't?) from Harry Potter but I'm going to go with Meredith from The Raven Saga. I know I'm totally cheesy, choosing my own character but I can't help it. She's exactly how I would have liked my Mum to be. You see, tragically, I lost my mum when I was very young so I grew up not really knowing what it's like to have a mum, you know? And to top it all off, I also don't have any kids of my own (not by choice).

But back to Meredith. She's totally adorable, adores her kids and her niece, Lilly, who she kind of takes under her wing. She loves to bake and can often be found in the kitchen in her apron happily preparing goodies for the rest of the family. She's almost always smiling, even in the face of danger and I love her for that. She's a glass half full kinda gal :)

Don't forget to download your FREE copy of Raven. There are two more books in The Raven Saga: December Moon and The Lost Soul. You can also get a FREE copy of Daisy Madigan's Paradise, a Morgan Sisters novella. The sequel to Daisy Madigan's Paradise is also available: The Ghost of Josiah Grimshaw and the third, The Temporal Stone, is out later this month YAY!!

#AtoZChallenge: T is for The Temporal Stone

As it's T-Day, I thought I would do a grand cover and title reveal of my latest book, due out next month. The book is the second full length novel in the Morgan Sisters series and the new title is The Temporal Stone.
The cover was designed by my amazingly talented book cover designer Ravven. What do you think?

The Temporal Stone

It's been a couple of months since Emma and Lana entered the Praxos Academy and life has been hectic ever since. What with regular A level classes combined with learning all about the supernatural world, control classes, self defence and fight night, the girls are constantly busy picking up new skills.
But when their world seems to stop right in front of them, they and their fellow Watchers, have a huge mystery to solve. A mystery which will lead them on a long road trip across southern England where they will meet all kinds of strange creatures, some intent on causing harm and others desperate to put a stop to the problem.
The Temporal Stone is the second full length novel in The Morgan Sisters series. The first book is entitled The Ghost of Josiah Grimshaw. There is also a free novella, Daisy Madigan's Paradise.

Don't forget to download your FREE copy of Raven. There are two more books in The Raven Saga: December Moon and The Lost Soul. You can also get a FREE copy of Daisy Madigan's Paradise, a Morgan Sisters novella. The sequel to Daisy Madigan's Paradise is also available: The Ghost of Josiah Grimshaw.

#AtoZChallenge: D is for Daisy Madigan's Paradise

D is for Daisy Madigan's Paradise

I could't resist the Ds today. I just had to tell those of you new to my blog about Daisy Madigan's Paradise, a FREE novella I wrote last year. Currently number 73 in the Free Kindle Store for teen fantasy, the book has been receiving a lot of positive attention, with 80 reviews averaging 4 stars (cool eh?!).

When tragedy falls upon 15 year old Daisy Madigan, she escapes to the only place she feels safe, the cemetery of Abney Park. There, in the company of the dearly departed, she realizes she is changing, growing stronger and faster by the day. But in the darkness lurks a terror even she can't imagine facing. Daisy Madigan's Paradise is a Morgan Sisters novella and its FREE. 

Don't forget to download Raven for FREE right here, and Daisy Madigan's Paradise (part of the Morgan Sisters series), also FREE right here.

Check out the trailer...

The A to Z Challenge features bloggers from all walks of life posting about everything and anything every day (except Sundays) during the month of April. As I'm a complete newbie to this challenge (and I'm in the middle of edits for book six), I haven't given myself a theme to adhere to! Enjoy!

#AtoZChallenge: B is for Barber

The A to Z Challenge features bloggers from all walks of life posting about everything and anything every day (except Sundays) during the month of April. As I'm a complete newbie to this challenge (and I'm in the middle of edits for book six), I haven't given myself a theme to adhere to! So, on with the challenge. Today...

B is for Barber

And I don't mean men's hairstylists! I have introduced a new character in my new book and aptly named him Barber. Okay, so perhaps his name isn't entirely apt because he doesn't cut hair for a living... but he does have a mass of long hair, if that matters? No? Oh well, I tried. 

Anyway, Barber is probably the most gorgeous guy in the Morgan Sisters series. Perhaps that has something to do with the fact that he is a vampire. Groan, you say. So predictable. I know, I know. But he just came to me in the middle of writing a scene and I couldn't shake him off. I knew then that he was here to stay. I'm actually quite fond of Barber now. 

Barber is 17, although he has been 17 for a long, long time. He has thick dark wavy hair that tumbles down his shoulders and has a body like a rugby player (you know the kind, strong and powerful with wide set shoulders and muscly arms and legs - but not too muscly mind). His eyes are such a dark shade of blue that they just suck you in. Intrigued yet? The book is due out in May. I'll keep you posted. 

He's how I picture him. A kind of mix between Steven Strait from 10,000 B.C and Jason Momoa from Game of Thrones.
Both totally swoon-worthy with long hair, don't you think?

 Don't forget to download Raven for FREE right here, and Daisy Madigan's Paradise (part of the Morgan Sisters series), also FREE right here.

Please vote for my book trailer!

I've entered Daisy Madiga's Paradise into a book trailer contest and the winner will get loads of exposure, something I could really do with about now. So could you please help me out by voting for the trailer? Here's the link: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/ZDR8KDJ

Oh and if you've still  not seen the trailer, here it is...

Remember, this novella is FREE, so download your copy from Amazon (also available from all other online retailer)

Would you like to be a part of #TeamPraxos ?

Ever since the release of my first book (Raven) in 2011, I've been overwhelmed by the support I've received from readers all over the world. This support has continued over the past few years, with the release of December Moon, The Lost Soul, The Ghost of Josiah Grimshaw and Daisy Madigan's Paradise. And I'm hoping this will continue with the release of the next book in The Morgan Sisters which is due out in May. It is, as yet, untitled, but I'll keep you posted!
I've had so many truly amazing reviews left on Amazon, that I've frequently been left speechless. In fact, the first time I got one for Raven, I secretly panicked that the person had clicked on the wrong book to  review. Countless more positive reviews later and I realise that, actually, my books must be pretty good!
I'm now getting to the stage where I could do with a street team to help me shout out about my books. What I'm looking for is a great bunch of people to assist in spreading the word about my new series, The Morgan Sisters (and occasionally about The Raven Saga and any new stuff I release).
#TeamPraxos will review, tweet, share, email, pin (any way they want to shout), etc, all the good things about The Morgan Sisters and in return they will receive ARCs, swag and endless amounts of virtual love and hugs from me. If you're a fan of my books and you're interested and would like to be a part of #TeamPraxos, please click this link to sign up! :D
Thanks so much for your continued support.  #TeamPraxos!! YAY!!

2013 is going to be AWESOME!!

Well, 2012 is now behind us and it's been an amazing year for me and my writing. Not only have I released several books, but my latest series is literally 'flying off the virtual shelves'. Since Daisy Madigan's Paradise went free, it's been downloaded more than 12,000 times on US Amazon alone! And that means, those who have enjoyed it, are starting to buy The Ghost of Josiah Grimshaw! YAY!
Add to that the most amazing, fabulous, awesome reviews and you've got a very happy gal right here. I'm absolutely delighted - clearly ;)
Since my journey as an author began (two years ago), I've learned so much. My writing has improved and I've made some wonderful connections with readers, authors, bloggers and more online folk. When I think about what has happened over the past couple of years, well, I just can't take the grin off my face.
I've released five books:

Raven (FREE)

December Moon

The Lost Soul

The Ghost of Josiah Grimshaw

Daisy Madigan's Paradise (FREE)

With free downloads and sales, there are probably well over 100,000 copies (which goes up every single day) of my books out in the virtual world. How awesome is that?
AND 2013 is going to be an amazing year. I've got plans to release at least three more books, hubby and I are planning a huge move and I'm going to be approached by a movie producer who wants to make my books into awesome movies.... Hey.... a girl can dream can't she?
Happy New Year everyone! I hope all your hopes and dreams come true this year.
Virtual Hugs XXX

Daisy Madigan's Paradise is now FREE on Amazon!

Finally, I can announce that Daisy Madigan's Paradise is FREE on Amazon!

Daisy Madigan's Paradise is a Morgan Sisters novella
When tragedy falls upon 15 year old Daisy Madigan, she escapes to the only place she feels safe, the cemetery of Abney Park. There, in the company of the dearly departed, she realizes she is changing, growing stronger and faster by the day. But in the darkness lurks a terror even she can't imagine facing.

Excerpt
She could feel it in the air, the sensation that she wasn't alone in the cemetery. And it wasn't the ghosts or the animals in the undergrowth. This was different. Her senses on full alert, Daisy was cautious to make little noise as she walked slowly and carefully through the gravestones, past the sleeping lion and beyond the numerous headless statues of angels that were scattered among the trees.
When she heard a howl, she stopped dead in her tracks and listened intently, her eyes skimming the area all around. The howl was followed by laughter, and not the fun kind. She knew immediately that she was dealing with a group.
Her first instinct was to run but, not knowing which direction they were coming from, she climbed the nearest tree. Seconds later, she sat on a heavy branch, barely breathing.
She'd never even realised she was capable of climbing trees and to do so at such speed shocked her. But she didn't have time to think about that, she knew those people in the park were bad news and she didn't want them to catch her.
Silently waiting, she barely took a breath as she watched the group grow nearer. There were four men, three women and two incredibly large dogs. As they approached, Daisy bit her lip. They weren't dogs. They were wolves and they were on to her scent, sniffing all around the area.
Fortunately, they seemed to lose interest and neither of them looked upwards.
Daisy Madigan's Paradise is a FREE Morgan Sisters novella. Get your Amazon copy here:
AMAZON US
AMAZON UK

Check out the book trailer

The first full length novel in the series is entitled The Ghost of Josiah Grimshaw and is available for just $2.99

I'm on Shalini Boland's blog today!!

Today I can be found on the truly awesome YA author, Shalini Boland's blog as part of the Morgan Sisters virtual tour. I totally HEART Shalini and her books (she is most definitely my favourite YA author) so it's always such an honour to be on her site. So please come and check out my guest post, leave a comment and show Shalini some love!!
Shalini Boland's Blog 

Its Day EIGHT of The Morgan Sisters Virtual Tour

Well, the Tour is going really well and I'm having a blast visiting all these awesome sites! Today, you can find me in two fabulous places. The Bornean Bookworm has kindly posted an excerpt of The Ghost of Josiah Grimshaw and my lovely YA pal, Laura A.H Elliott has posted a short interview with one of my characters Eleanor Hayden-Jones (she was such a blast to write... I just love her!).
Please pop on over and share the love...

The Bornean Bookworm

Laura A H Elliott

And don't forget you can be in with a chance to win a paperback copy of The Ghost of Josiah Grimshaw, a $10 Amazon voucher, a special Praxos bracelet and keyring as well as eight ecopies up for grabs!! Scroll down for the Rafflecopter....

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Day 7 of The Morgan Sisters Virtual Tour

Hey everyone! Well, I'm back from my travels in Lisbon to celebrate hubby's 40th birthday... and all is back to normal. Well, relatively back to normal. While we were away, a freak tornado ripped through the region. Fortunately, it missed the area where we live but did some major damage to three towns just 15 minutes away. Lagoa, Silves and Carvoeiro (where we used to live) had huge trees ripped up from pavements, the local football stadium is virtually no more, houses have lost roofs and windows, caravans, cars and trucks overturned and crashed all over the place and more. It must have been so frightening for anyone living there.
Luckily, it's all over and the freak weather conditions have changed. This morning, there's beautiful blue skies everywhere and, although a little brisk, it is glorious.
Just a bummer that I feel like I'm coming down with what feels like flu! I hope it's not though :(
I guess it's a good thing then that my Virtual Tour is online only! So you don't have to worry about catching my cold when you come on over and visit Raine Thomas's blog, where main character Emma Jane Morgan has plenty to say for the Seventh Day!
So what are you waiting for... come and join me and help me feel better!
DAY SEVEN

Day Six of The Morgan Sisters Virtual Tour

It's Sunday... time to chill out and relax (preferably in front of a cozy log burning fire) and catch up with all your favourite TV shows. Sigh... I love Sundays. I'll be busy travelling back from a celebratory weekend in Lisbon though... but I hope to catch up with you all when I get back!
But before all that, come and check out the sixth day of the Virtual Tour where it's not me you'll find, but one of my main protagonists, Lana Beth Morgan who is posting on the awesome YA author Carlyle Labuschagne's blog.

Click the image to buy the book from Amazon US