Books By Jo Cattell

Books By Jo Cattell

Wednesday, November 6, 2013

Stolen Cover Reveal



I'm so excited to introduce the new cover for my wonderful and talented friend Keren Hughes. This is a must read. Congradulations Keren!!!!

Stolen 

Coming November 2013…

SYNOPSIS:

Roshanna O'Dare wakes up in her own home in shock when she discovers part of her memory is missing and her parents are dead…

With no clues of any kind as to what happened to her parents, and no other close family, Roshanna must move to Texas, Austin, to live with her last living relative, Uncle Joe after the funeral. But this means leaving her best friend, Marissa Mason behind.

That’s when she meets Bodhi Vincent, her uncle’s chauffeur, who seems to understand Roshanna in a way no one else has…

Bodhi is her rock after the death of her parents and the longer she stays with her uncle, the closer they become.

But before moving away, Roshanna was confronted with a shocking secret that Marissa had kept from her, a secret that changes how she sees life and the people in it—Marissa is a pure soul and her foster parents are soul drainers who need her pure energy to survive.

More shockingly, her parents’ souls were stolen by their murderer.

When Roshanna and Bodhi try and track down Marissa’s father, Leith Mason, in order to retrieve her parents’ souls back, they find themselves held hostage at gunpoint.

Will Roshanna and Bodhi survive? Will she ever find her parents souls? Or will their souls be the next ones to be taken?


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

                                                                                
Keren lives in the UK and is an avid bookworm; she has been since she read things like Black Beauty, What Katy Did and The Hobbit as a child. Her first real memories of reading are the summers she used to lie on her bed and re-read What Katy Did and What Katy Did Next.

Over the years she has come to realise that she is a bit OCD about books. They have to be in perfect condition without the slightest bit of damage.

She is a book reviewer and has been for the past 18 months or so.

The idea for Stolen came to her one day but she never thought she’d actually write it let alone publish it. If it wasn’t for her author friend Kira Saito, the idea would still be stuck in her head not on paper. But constant love and support from Kira is why you are now able to read Stolen.

Stolen is her first novel but now that she’s written one, she knows she needs to write more. There will be one sequel, called Freed which will be from Bodhi’s POV. This will be set a couple of years on.

Then, the plan is for her to write either NA or Adult Contemporary Romances. She has a big crush on Lady Antebellum’s music at the moment and their songs have inspired a few book ideas.






GIVEAWAY

<a id="rc-18a72718" class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/18a72718/" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script>

Saturday, September 28, 2013

Coffee Chat with Author JamieLynn Boothe


Samantha Jenson is trapped in a world like so many others; a world full of fear and death. A world where the disease of addiction has an iron grasp on her life and controls her soul so powerfully even the strongest of men would cower down on his knees and beg for mercy. A world where she struggles to escape and tries to live at least somewhat of a normal life.
Here is the story of a young woman, deeply addicted to the drug called “Intimacy”. Her life has been a disaster because of her addictions through the years but this particular drug is her master. Samantha has lost everything but most importantly her desire to live.
Can Samantha escape the talons her demons have on her? Can Samantha regain control of her life and tear down the walls of despair? Will she regain hope, her desire to live and her family? Travel with her on her journey and see what happens in her world. You just might be able to relate.




Hello and welcome to another Coffee Chat. Today we are going to take things to a different level. In the past I have reviewed a verity of books. Today is no different but I have to say, the author that is my guest today has written a book that brings to light something that has touched anyone of us in one way or another. Today’s guest is author JamieLynn Boothe and he’s here to talk about his latest release “The Journey”. I had the opportunity to read this book and if you haven't yet, it is a must read. It is a very powerful book dealing with addiction. I was so moved by this book that I'm going to let my almost 16 year old daughter read it. Once you have read this interview, you will see why. So grab yourself a cup of coffee and sit back and relax as we talk about this truly touching book.

Me: Welcome Jamielynn and thank you so much for joining me today. I have to say I could really identify with this book in many ways. Let’s start with telling us a little more about the book.

Jamielynn: Samantha lives in Torrington, CT. and struggles with the disease of addiction to the drug called Intimacy. She lives in her pain of her past, her pain of her present, and hopelessness of her future. She struggles with not being able to see her young daughter, and her husband being killed in a tragic car accident and thinks dying is her best way out. Luckily for her someone steps in to help her. The rest of the story is about her struggle with trying to stay clean and what happens during that time.

Me: I really loved the story and the whole idea about bringing to light her struggle. How did you come up with this story?

JamieLynn: I wanted to tell a story about someone who has the disease of addiction because I know a lot of people who have. I am in recovery myself so I can relate to pain and fear caused from it. I can relate to the horrors of the shame, guilt, hopelessness and wanting to die from this disease.

Me: Did you have any character that you would say was your favorite?

JamieLynn: Samantha, the main character, because I could feel her pain. I can relate to her on certain levels

Me: I can see why, she was a very strong character and to see her develop and feel her struggles is really what drew me into the story deeper. Was there any scene that you enjoyed writing more then the others?

JamieLynn:  I love the hospital scene with her daughter and the second time she gets out of detox. I’m not saying more than that because I don’t want to give too much away.

Me: I can understand that. So what do you think will draw people to your book?

JamieLynn: Being able to read about someone struggle, and overcome his or her obstacles. Many will be able to relate to what Samantha goes through in this book.

Me:  This is a very real book, dealing with the very common situation of addiction. Was it a hard subject for you to write about?

JamieLynn: Not really, for me this particular story, because I can relate to it, seemed to flow rather smoothly.

Me: I found that I could really identify with Harmony, having gone through something similar with someone in my family. Did you feel you could relate to anyone of your character?

JamieLynn: Yes I can definitely identify with Sam, because when I was out there getting high and my addiction had it's grip on me, it led me into hopelessness, being homeless, unemployed, suicidal and when I got clean I have lived in numerous sober houses and had to start over.

Me: Well, it’s a really powerful story and I have to say one of my favorites by far. Tell what’s next for you?

JamieLynn: I am trying to decide whether to write the sequel to my first novel, Nightmares and Dreams, or to write the YA Paranormal I have been wanting to write.

Me: I’m excited to see what’s to come from you! Any last thoughts before we end for today?

JamieLynn: I hope whoever reads The Journey will very much enjoy it and check out my other future books. If someone doesn’t understand the disease of addiction, I hope they attempt to learn about it. I don’t think there is anyone who can’t relate on some level though. Someone in everyone’s life struggles with this disease. It may be them, or someone they love, but somewhere in their life, it is there.

Thanks again so much for joining me today. Below you can see where to find "The Journey" and  little more about our author. For now,
Peace, Love, & Hope~JC

About the Author
Jamielynn Boothe is a laid back southern boy who was born and raised in the small town of Moneta, Virginia, currently residing in Torrington, Ct. however. Working a full-time job as he writes he works on fulfilling his lifelong dream of being a successful author. JamieLynn enjoys the simple things in life such as good music, movies that make you laugh, cry, and afraid. He loves cats, eating good home-cooked southern food, art, travelling, nature, family and time with friends as well as time to himself. Writing is his passion, and JamieLynn loves creating books that touch another persons heart and soul. He has written two books so far. Nightmares and Dreams, a novel, and The Journey, a novella. He is currently working on the sequel to Nightmares and Dreams, and a new love story. JamieLynn is currently single but hopes to find that special woman one day.

*****This just in, JamieLynn is offering "The Journey" for just .99 cents starting this weekend Oct 4, 5, & 6th. Don't miss out on this limited opportunity to get your copy of a truly powerful book!********

The Journey on Amazon
The Journey at Barns and Noble


Saturday, September 21, 2013

Lia Michaels~Forbidden Destiny

Hi everyone, welcome to my coffee talk with Author Lia Michaels about her new book “Forbidden Destiny”. I just finished this book and let me tell you, it’s H~O~T HOT.

Here is a little bit about the book before we get started. So grab yourself a cup and settle in for a really interesting interview.




                                                                Blurb

Ethan Quaderer is the Great Thunderbird, the creature of Native American legend.  From childhood, Ethan soared high across the land, as one with the majestic bald eagles—only larger and more powerful. Great Thunderbird has one mission, to save the Native American people. But first, he must find his Chosen, his soul mate.
Abraham Tuttle grew up in a household where being different was unacceptable. Forbidden.  He hid his true nature, a Two Spirit—not male or female, but both.  For many Native American tribes, being Two Spirit is a blessing, one to be honored and revered. Not so for Abraham.
Through the Thunderbird dreams each finds the happiness they long for. One dreams of the Great Warrior who’d someday rescue him. The other dreams of the one he’s searched for through many lifetimes.
Dreams turn into reality when both men come face to face in the real world. Can Abraham find it within himself to let go of his past and embrace his future with Ethan, or will his doubts and fears of who and what he really is cause him to lose the only one who could ever complete him heart and soul?


Sounds good, right!  Okay, let’s get started.

Me: Hello, Lia and welcome to my little coffee chat. Before we get started, let me just say, I LOVED the book. It was a quick read, but really intense. I loved reading how the characters first met and the back-story. What really drew me in was the way you described the dream sequences. I truly felt like I was there, watching it all happen before my eyes. I’m dying to know how you came up with this awesome story?

Lia: Thanks Jo! To tell the truth, I’ve always been fascinated by Native American culture and lore. As a Wiccan, I study the Native American traditions as part of my religion along with Celtic traditions. Comparing the two is eye-opening. Many of their teachings are so similar, you’d think they were exactly the same.

The legend of the Thunderbird is another interest of mine. Many of the Native American tribes tell the same tales, but with this one there is nearly a universal teaching. The Great Thunderbird is supposed to come back and save the Native people and their ways. He’s the Great Protector so to speak.

I thought what would happen if the legend had really come to life in the form of an eagle shifter. What would happen if he couldn’t fulfill his mission to save his people until he found and was reunited with his Chosen Mate?  What if both were men? 

Me: That did give the story a real twist. Most of the time you read about someone soul mate, it’s usually M/F. I love that was something different. Now is this your first time writing M/M?

Lia: . Yes, it was. I wanted to explore the world of M/M erotic romance and the characters in this series spoke to my heart. I just had to tell their story.

Me: So tell me did you have a favorite character to write or were you drawn to both the same way?

Lia:  I love them both, but I have to say Abraham is my favorite. I’ve put a bit of myself into him with his love of animals and his skills as a healer. They say we always put a piece of ourselves into our characters. Sometimes it’s blatantly obvious and others it’s more subtle. 

Abraham’s insecurities about who and what he is to Ethan is what endears me to him the most. I’ve been where he is in his life. I know what it’s like to have to hide your true self from your friends and family.

Me: What do you think the readers will draw from this book?

Lia: The heroes have searched for each other through many lifetimes. In this one, they had only been able to see each other in their dreams. Then one day their dreams become a reality and they’re finally face to face.  It’s more than love at first sight for them. It’s a connection so strong, that nothing or no one can keep them apart. Not even the heroes themselves.

Me: So tell me a little more about it from your point of view.

Lia: Abraham and Ethan are Native Americans from different tribes. One is raised to embrace his “Two Spirit” nature and the other is taught to hide it. Two Spirits were once honored and revered by all tribes, but through the years and due to the influence of Non-Native beliefs, some tribes have turned away from this tradition.

This is the main conflict between the heroes. Ethan embraces the fact he’s The Great Thunderbird and that Abraham is his soul mate. Although Abraham’s heart longs for it to be true, he has trouble believing it even when faced with losing the one man who could ever complete him heart and soul.

Me: I have to know… did you have any favorite scenes?

Lia: Oh yes, like you, their dream sequences are my favorite. I’ve included an excerpt of one for you.

Me: Since this was your first M/M erotic book, I can imagine it was a bit of a challenge.

Lia: Yes, writing same sex love scenes is a bit challenging. You have to put the characters names in there more often than you would have if you were dealing with characters of the opposite sex.  I mean, you have to be able to tell which dude is doing what at any given moment. LOL!

Me: I bet! So, what are you working on now?

Lia: Finishing Abraham and Ethan’s story in Call of the Thunderbird(Fearless Love 1) is my top priority as well as working on creating the shared world series called Temptation Resort. This is a joint venture I’m working on with all the Sassy Vixen authors.

Me: That means we will be seeing more from Ethan and Abe’s story? Great!

Lia: It could stand alone, but, yes,  there’s so much more to Ethan and Abe’s story. That book will come out in the beginning of 2014. I’m hoping for at least three more books in this series.

Me: This has been great having you’re here today. Before we go, any last thoughts you want to add?

Lia: The driving theme in all of my writing is soul mates are bound to each other from the beginning of time. It may take multiple life cycles to find each other again, but they always do.  When it happens, and it will happen for everyone one day, it’s magical.  

Me: Yes it is! Thank you so much for being here with me today, Lia, it’s been a blast!  Check out more from Lia Michael and her book, “Forbidden Destiny” see the links below.

As always,
Peace, Love, & Happiness~JC


Excerpt

Ethan moved to stand behind Abraham and held him up, preventing him from toppling over to the ground. “Give it a few more moments until you get used to it. They just want to share everything with you at once. It’s not every day they get to fly with a Thunderbird.”
“But I’m not—” Abraham’s heart raced and he clung to the bulging muscles of Ethan’s arms around his chest. His legs weakened again and Abraham leaned back against Ethan’s hard body for support.
“Yes, you are. I can only choose another Thunderbird to be my mate. Embrace who and what you are, Abe. I need you to truly believe, not just in me, but in us.” Ethan’s hoarse whispered plea pierced Abraham’s mind and broke down the last resistance within him.
Ethan hugged him closer to his naked body. His hard cock pulsed against Abraham’s bare ass and lower back. “Go on and connect with one of them. One day you’ll fly with me on your own, without the aid of our feathered brothers, but for tonight we’ll let them be our guides.” Ethan nibbled on Abraham’s right ear lobe before trailing down his neck. His left hand slowly stroked Abraham’s now stiff member. “That’s it. Let yourself fly with your guide.”
Abraham moaned and swayed with Ethan as they sank to their knees into the warm water of the lake. “I can feel and see everything—the ruffling of my feathers, the wind flowing all around me as we glide. I can even hear the deer running through the brush on the other side of the lake.” Through the eagle’s eyes, Abraham watched as Ethan flew next to him, the tips of their wings barely touching. In that moment, Abraham no longer knelt in the lake within Ethan’s arms, but soared high above the earth. “Unbelievable.”
“Feel your talons extend as we twirl around each other in the wind.” Ethan entwined his fingers with Abraham’s and held him even tighter, molding their bodies into one. “Now we fall…”

                                                                              



ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Lia Michaels is the alter ego of bestselling poet and erotic romance author Tammy Dennings Maggy. With so many characters clamoring for their stories to be told, the job became a bit overwhelming for one sassy vixen to handle. Lia "volunteered" to explore the world of M/M erotic romance as well as menage. Tammy will still tell the M/F and F/F stories but don't be surprised if the two of them collaborate from time to time. With Lia, very few topics will be taboo so look for more fantasy and paranormal tales from her. She'll leave the more contemporary stuff to Tammy but still encourage her to push the limits!

WHERE TO FIND LIA


WHERE TO FIND FORBIDDEN DESTINY


   





Friday, July 12, 2013

Charity event for "In Another Life"


When I wrote "In Another Life" I took it from an experience in my life that left a lasting memory. It changed my views on life in so many ways. Nate, although not his real name, was a real person who because of an illness needed a kidney transplant. Unfortunately, the first one did not take.  Thankfully, years later, his next one did, and he has been able to live a full life. Sadly, there are so many people waiting for transplants, and many unfortunately, don't make it to see that happen.  The ones who do, always hold a fear that the transplant will reject. In some cases it does happen. 

In the past few months, I've been following a story of such a case. I always talk on here of my adoption of my youngest daughter, and this is how I came across Teresa's story. I'm going to post the link to her family's page, so you yourself can read about this incredible child. Teresa was a Princess in so many ways. Braver the Merida, Stronger then Mulan, even more beautiful then Cinderella and the rest of the princess she loved so much. She touched the lives of everyone who meet her and even those who have not. In her short live she gave so much joy. Now she has shimmering wings to match the crown she loved to where so much.

It is because of Teresa and even Nate, I have come up with the event I'm running for the month of July. All the roylaties I make from both the ebook and print copies of "In Another Life" will be donated to http://donatelife.net/ and also CHOP (The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia) http://giving.chop.edu/site/PageNavigator/ 

The donation will be given in memory of little Princess Teresa. So please help by getting your copy of "In Another Life" and sharing this blog post.  Here is the link for "In Another Life"



Peace, Love, Health, & Happiness~JC

Friday, April 26, 2013

In Another Life


     Yesterday marked a very big day for me, I released my 3rd book, "In Another Life".  This book means so much to me.  I wrote the book about a time in my life that was so confusing.  When your a teen, you experience so many things.  From peer pressure, family life, let alone the awkwardness of your own self worth.  You fall in love and think everyone your with is "The One" only to have your heart ripped out.
     But imagine yourself being sick.  Feeling like your a freak because of that.  Thinking the only reason people are around you is because they feel sorry for you.  The only thing you want is to feel normal and experience life the way everyone else dose.  
     So with this book, I looked back at a time in my life and thought of a way to get that message across.  I went back to a couple I knew who were just like this.  The guy, a real sweetheart, who felt like a freak because of his illness and the girl who saw him for who he was not who his illness made him.
     In this day and age, there are is all this talk about bullies and how kids who are different are picked on.  I hope that if in reading this book, someone opens their eyes and takes a chance, they will see the person inside not what the outer shell shows.  They really might be surprised at what they find.

Check out  In Another Life

My latest release from Jaden Rose Press.

~Peace~Love~Hope~
                 ~JC~

Wednesday, March 27, 2013

Cover reveal for "In Another Life"

I'm so excited about bringing this cover reveal to you for my new book, "In Another Life"



Cover Art & Book Design By
Wicked Muse Productions
and 
R. Budney Photograph

Sixteen year old, Annie Kane was dumped by her last boyfriend. It took a long time for her to agree with her friends and find somebody new.
When Jim Osborn, the class clown shows up with his best friend, Annie realizes that there’s is something different about his friend, but she can’t figure out what.
Nate Cruz wasn’t like anyone she’d ever known. He’s funny and down to earth, but he also suffers with low self esteem from being in and out of the hospital.
After Jim tries to force himself on her at a party, Anne finally sees him as he really is and decides to end it.
She and Nate become best friends. Then, a kiss changes it all.
With Nate, she sees what love really means. She learns how wonderful life can be. And how at anytime, things can change without warning.
If she’d stayed in her safe, little world, Annie would have missed her chance at love. But because of an irresistible attraction for a boy, she just couldn’t forget? She finds out what she’s really made of and what’s it’s like— living in another life.


Look for “In Another Life” coming from Jaden Rose Press, April 2013 on Amazon.com

Thursday, March 7, 2013

Cover Reveal for "The Admission"

So happy and honored to do a cover reveal for my friend Jamallah Bergman.  Be sure to check this book out as soon as it's available.



                                                   All she ever wanted was her father’s love

     Cathy tries her best to impress her father despite his resentment over her, due to facts that she doesn’t even know as to why. He belittles her about every little thing that he doesn’t like about his only child. Cathy does love her father and tries to make him proud of her but nothing seems to work and her shyness has basically made her a prisoner of her own self. She feels that nothing in her now nonexistent life could be made any better…..that is until she meets him.

     Rodrigo “Rod” Coram lives the life that most men would want. Owner of a fabulous club The Orchid Lounge, he has many great clients, great friends along with the eyes of every woman around. But it wasn’t until his best friend Frank asked him to help out being a groomsman in his cousin’s wedding that he was able to find the woman he knew he was meant to be with.

     But with a vindictive father harboring a troubling secret from his only child and troublesome ex-girlfriend, who would rather see Rod miserable, will Cathy be able to find the love that she’s always wanted? Will Rod be able to show her that despite everything that they were meant to be together?

                                                        Will they find that happily ever after?



Author Bio

     Writer Jamallah Bergman was born in Jamaica Queens, New York. Although her family moved around a bit; from New York to Alabama to Georgia. Jamallah's childhood was mostly spent in Roswell, Georgia.
At the age of twelve, Jamallah started writing scripts for her doll babies. As she got older, her inclination to write grew.

     Soon after reading her first romance novel at fifteen; she became hooked on romance and deviated from writing her doll baby stories, to romantically inclined stories.

     Her thirst to write eventually sent her from one out of the box experience to another. She eventually engaged her thoughts and writing into writing erotic stories.

     As Jamallah's interest as a reader grew, questions aroused her curiosity. Why were the heroines in the stories she loved so much, nothing like herself. She felt none of the women were full figured, or plump. To coin a phrase from the well known comedienne Mo'Nique, like "Thick Madame", a thick and curvy woman.

    Often she became upset because she felt there should be stories out there about all types of women, including thick, beautiful women like herself. Why were there no stories about full figured women who got the handsome hunk? She would ask herself after reading another romance story where the beautiful main character was thin.

     After researching and finding very few stories about curvy women, Jamallah thought it was time the romance readers market read more stories about full figured heroines.
She started to write stories where the full figured woman 'ALWAYS' got her man!


So there you have it, be sure to check back to see when so I can let you all know when this awesome book is available!

Peace, Love, & Laughter ~JC



Friday, February 22, 2013

"Stolen" Cover revel

I know last week I had the cover revel for "Stolen" but something went wrong and a newer better cover was designed.  So....Here it is the offical cover for "Stolen" By Keren KiessLinger




Cover Artwork by Cara White
Title: STOLEN
Author: Keren Kiesslinger
Publication Date: TBC
Category: YA
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Synopsis:
Sixteen year old Roshanna O’Dare - or Shanna to her friends – has lived in the backwater town of Cypress Hill all her life. She goes to school and gets good grades, has lots of friends, things couldn’t be better for her.
But that all changes when she finds her parents have been murdered. They’ve been shot dead in the family home.
Shanna has to pack her belongings to go and live with her Uncle Joe in Round Rock, Texas. She hasn’t seen him for 6 years and doesn’t really remember him that well. He’s her mother’s brother, and her only surviving relative, so Shanna has no choice in the matter – she has to leave her school and friends behind and start afresh.
Before she leaves, Shanna’s best friend Marissa has a mind-blowing secret. Shanna’s parents’ souls have been stolen. Why? Well that’s what they need to discover, but how when they will live so far apart?
Uncle Joe comes to collect Shanna and brings along his chauffeur, Bodhi Vincent. Immediately Shanna feels a connection to this handsome boy. With his chestnut coloured wavy hair and his iridescent blue-green gaze, he’s everything Shanna could want; if she was looking for a boyfriend that is. But under the circumstances, it’s an opportunity to make friends with someone who lives in Round Rock; she’ll need all the friends she can get.
Just as life is settling down a little, Shanna’s world is rocked by a telephone call from a threatening stranger.
She needs to confide in someone. Could that someone be the boy whose touch feels like gravity?
Will Shanna find out who stole her parents’ souls and will she fall in love along the way?”






Author Bio:
Keren is 29 and lives with her son who keeps reminding her she’s about to turn 30. For a while now, her favourite hobby has been reading and she even has her own review blog – which can be found at www.gothicangelbookreviews.blogspot.com
Having read so many YA books, she wondered if it was about time she got her butt into gear and start writing her own novel. She’d had the idea for a while, but hadn’t got the courage to write as it meant doing something outside of her normal comfort zone – telling people she was writing a book.
She finally bit the bullet and started writing in October 2012. She even created her own author blog, though it took her a while to pluck up the courage – her author blog can be found at www.authorkerenkiesslinger.blogspot.com
Her first novel is a YA Paranormal Romance called Stolen. She plans on writing a sequel, which will be called Freed.
If she can pluck up enough courage, she will be writing an Adult Contemporary Romance that she doesn’t yet have a title for. All she knows is that it’s based on a favourite song of hers, by one of her favourite bands – ‘If I Knew Then’ by Lady Antebellum.
Contact Links:

So there you have it, keep watching for my review for "Stolen" coming soon!

Peace, Love, & Live~JC~

Wednesday, February 13, 2013

The Next Big Thing Blog Hop





Welcome to my stop on the Next Big Thing Blog Hop, I'm happy you have stop by to join me. Soo....What is a blog hop you might ask?

Well, it a place to for readers to learn more about new and upcoming authors and take a peek into some of the books they have written.  So today, you'll learn a little about me and the first book in my "Fallen Angel Series" and also about my new work in progress which will be out in April.  Soo, lets get started shall we.....

The First Book in the "Fallen Angel Series"



“The Corpse Girl—A Town Legend.” 
It happened almost six years ago. A quiet ten-year-old girl was left to care for her sick, dying mother. Day after day, night after night, the girl watched as her mother’s body slowly grew weaker. Her father had left, and in his parting words to his young daughter, he said, "if you kill your mother and end this suffering, I will claim you as my child and give you all you ever wanted. But only after you have truly ended her life..."

Everyone heard the rumors at the Sacred Heart Catholic School. Was it true that one of their own had killed their mother in a mercy killing?

Only sixteen year old Chloe Gardner knew the truth. Her life had been dark and cold until she met Nick Allen. Could he ever love her? No one loved her before, could she trust this new boy who just moved to their town?

Seventeen year old Nick had vowed after many moves to not have a girlfriend in this new town. Then, he met Chloe, with her shy smile and sweet ways. He just couldn't resist and he became part of her world. What was behind her sad eyes and quiet ways? He found he couldn't seem to care as he fell in love for the first time in his young life.

But, is true love any reason to break a promise....

Available






I want to thank Sheri Fredricks, for inviting me to be a part of this event.  You can stop by her blog and check out her "Next Big Thing" at






Now, for the fun stuff...In this blog hop, my fellow authors and myself, have answered 10 questions about our current book or work-in-progress (yes, your gonna get a sneak peek). We also tell you a little more about how and what inspires us to write. The characters, plotting, inspirations, and just choices we've made.  So sit back and enjoy, this part of me....

1. What is the working title of your book?
    "In Another Life"

2. Where did the ideal come from for this book?
    The idea came from actual events in  my life when I was a teenager. It's about a very important lesson I learned at a young age about love and truly seeing who a person is from the inside and not what you see on the outside.

3. What genre does your book fall under?
     I'm going to say Young Adult/Sweet Romance

4. What actors would you choose to play the characters in the movie rendition? 
      Nate Cruz: Matt Bennett but without the glasses and a hair cut

       Annie Kane: Ariana Grande with the red hair toned down and her normal voice, lol.
         
5. What is the one-sentence synopsis for your book?
    Only when you can see past a persons outer flaws, can you see the true beauty of the heart that lies within and learn to never take the chances you are given for granted.

6. Is your book self-published, published by an independent publisher, or represented by an agency?
     It's self published under "Jaden Rose Press"

7. How long did it take you to write the first draft of your manuscript? 
    It took me about six months to write the first draft.  I'm in edits now and have made changes to the original, tweaking it here and there. 

8. What other books would you compare to this story within this genre?
    I'm not really sure.  I had a test reader compare it to the "Notebook" saying that is was the teen version of it.  

9. Who or what inspired you to write this book?
     Wow, where to start here. As I said the book contains events from my life.  It was inspired by my first love.  A boy who had been through so much and yet, beat a lot of odds. I learned so much from our brief time together, but always held true to never looking at someone for what their looks alone.  To truly judge or get to know and love someone, you have to see the real person.  Not many girls had done that because he had been sick most of his teenage years.  He has told me that I did so much for him at this time of his life, but I don't think he ever really realized just how much he had done for me. I guess this is my way to thank him and show him, just how much our time together meant to me. How I never forgot him, and how looking back at it all now, how thankful I will always be to have him at that time in my life.

10. What else about your book might pique the readers interest?
     I think it teaches a lesson, and also shows not to take people for granted.  To look past what you see and take a closer look at who a person really is.  Its one of those feel better books that although is sad at time, in the end, shows you just how special life truly is.


So there you have it, my Next Big Thing Blog post.  Hope you enjoyed it as much as I have.  Look for "In Another Life" on Amazon in April and please be sure to check out "When Angels Fall" and "After Angels Fall" both available on Amazon.com 
Peace~Love & Hope~JC~

11





        

Sunday, January 27, 2013

Sunday Post "After Angel's Fall"




“You're so incredibly smart and gorgeous.” He took her hand. He got an idea and led her into a room where there were very little paintings.
“Where are we going now?” she asked him.
“'I'll tell you in a minute. Give me your bag,” he said, taking it from her.
“Nick!” she called to him but he told her to wait.
Ten minutes later, he came back and handed her bag back.
“What are you up to?” She noticed the smirk on his face and wondered where he'd gone.
“I found another exhibit I want to show you. They hid it in the stairwell.” He pulled her up and led her in.
There, along the wall, he'd taped up her sketches and there was a piece of paper with the words “The Chloe Gardner Exhibit” written on it. “Now see, I like the way this artist used her talents to bring out the likeness of this nun. Look how she captured the wisps of hair that hung untouched from her habit,” he explained.
She laughed.
“And this one, notice the poise that the skater has as she spins,” he continued as he put his hand to his face, acting like he was focusing on it.
“You are crazy.” She shook her head.
“Now, I think this one is my favorite. Whoever this young man is, he is very handsome, and the artist has used him a few times. You can see the love she has for him as she has detailed his name on this sketch. Whoever this Nicholas person is, he's very good looking man.”
Chloe threw her arms around his neck and kissed him. “You're a fool, and very cocky.”
“I may be, but someday, we're going to walk in here and it's going to be your work hanging on the walls.” He kissed her.
She touched his face and stared into his soft brown eyes. “I really wish I could see what you do.”
“You will,” he answered.
Somehow, she found herself against the wall and their kisses had a hunger to them. His leg was between hers and she felt herself wanting him. His hands caressed her breasts and she wanted so much for him to take her there in the stairway.
He told her how he loved her and how he had missed her.
Her body literally ached for him. In her mind, Shelly's voice called her a slut. She rubbed at the hardness he had for her and he moaned as he kissed her neck. She felt his
hand on her leg as he pulled up the hem of her skirt. She put her hands under his shirt and dug her nails in to his back as he squeezed her butt. The word "whore" echoed through her mind. This proved it. Not only was she tempting him, she was about to have sex in the stairway at the art museum. She promised that this would not happen again, and yet, she found she couldn't stop herself.
 “Oh, God Nick. Stop, stop!” she yelled and pushed him away. She sunk to the floor and tried to catch her breath.
“What? What's the matter?” he asked her, just as breathless.
He watched her closely.
She went to her knees and then begged for the thought to leave her mind.
Gently, he touched her arms.
“We can't.” She pulled away from him, and slowly stood up.
“Chloe,” he said softly, touching her cheek. “What's going on? This is the second time today you pushed me away.”
“I'm not going to have sex in a stairway. God knows what would have happened if Shelly had came home those times and we were going at it.” She started taking the sketches down.
He stopped her and made her look at him. “What happened when they kept you away from me? What did they make you believe?”






photo credit: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/imagineitall/7379185178/">Por mi tripa...</a> via <a href="http://photopin.com">photopin</a> <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/">cc</a>

Sunday, January 20, 2013

Sunday Post "After Angels Fall"





Chloe heard him coming up the steps and stood against his wall. When he came into the room, she startled him. “I thought I would sneak into your room this time.”
“What—what are you doing here?”
She ran over and kissed him as he had her the night before. “Don't say you're not happy to see me.”
He touched her face and smiled. “I'm—speechless. How, what…?”
She kissed him again and felt his arms around her. “You're soaking wet.” She laughed in between his kisses.
“I was in the pool. You're really here. What happened?” he asked again, confused but happy she was back.
“Shelly is pregnant, which put her in a better mood, and she backed down and let me out. I have my cell phone back and everything. I do have to go home tonight at a reasonable time, but the most important thing is we can be together again. I talked to your Dad and he said it was okay.” She smiled, just happy to be with him again.
Nick was confused. “My Dad? How long have you been here?”
“I went to talk to him at the church. We had a long talk and he brought me here.”
“Wow, what a nice dad I have. Come here,” he said, going to kiss her again.
She melted into his embrace and tried to stop herself from wanting more.
“Nicholas!” They heard his father yell.
“Yeah?” Nick laughed. He was going to be stricter now.
“I want to see you. Chloe, go get changed and have some fun. I think you need it,” Mr. Allen called up to them.




photo credit: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/riot_/192144697/">ValetheKid</a> via <a href="http://photopin.com">photopin</a> <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/2.0/">cc</a>

Sunday, January 6, 2013

Sunday Post "After Angels Fall"







Chloe walked into her room and noticed that her computer was gone. She turned and looked at them. “I don't understand.” She was confused as to what they were planning.
“I want your cell phone,” her father said to her.
She took it out slowly and handed it to him.
Shelly smiled at her. “We feel that Nicholas is a bad influence on you. After what happened here the other day, we feel it is best you don't see him anymore.”
Chloe felt like the wind had been knocked out of her. “Why?”
“You're a whore now like your mother! She would be so proud of you, following in her footsteps. I put a stop to her oversexed ways like I am to you now. You're a filthy whore!” her father yelled at her.
She couldn't breathe. “You can't do this. Please don't do this.”
Shelly laughed at her. “Oh, it is already done. See, his parents were none too happy to hear how you tempted their son and made him break his promise. They finally see you for the waste you really are. You're now the whore who ruined their good name, much like you've done here.”
“I am not a whore. Please, I will do anything you want. Don't take him away from me. He is the only reason I'm still alive,” she cried as she fell to the floor.
“No, Chloe, you're a whore! You have ruined my good name by sleeping around like some tramp. And in my house! You are to have no contact with him or I will press charges against him for the assault against Shelly. Until you graduate, this is your new home. Get used to it!” he yelled and slammed her door.
It was then she heard the lock. They had put in a dead bolt on the outside of the door. She was trapped. She banged on the door, crying until she couldn't feel her hands anymore. Sliding to the floor, she sobbed. This couldn't be happening. They couldn't be doing this to her. She had done everything they asked. “Why?” was the only thing that ran through her mind. She had no way to let him know what happened. All she could do was lie on the floor and cry.





photo credit: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/pinksherbet/1165149664/">Pink Sherbet Photography</a> via <a href="http://photopin.com">photopin</a> <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/">cc</a>

Tuesday, January 1, 2013

New Year New Release

     A year ago, I sat at  my computer thinking about how I was going to start this blog and wondering what I was doing.  I was getting ready to sign a contract and start the publishing process.  Needless to day, that fell throw. But something better came along.  And as luck had it, my first novel "When Angels Fall" was published in November.

     To see my hard work finally in print was amazing.  Almost as when I say my children for the first time.  Before it happened never considered myself a real writer, just someone who wrote stories in my spare time or an outlet for my frustrations or emotions.  And even after it was published, it still didn't hit me.  I never felt like a real author.  Slowly people started buying the book and I started getting reviews and to quote Sally Field, "Someone liked me, they really liked me" lol.

     Then last night, as we all rung in the New Year, I had more to celebrate...

Book 2, "After Angels Fall" was released on Amazon. (Yea me, lol)  And it is funny, but I'm starting to feel it now.  I feel like an author.  Yeah, I'm not famous, and hardly anyone knows my name yet.  But, my god, I am really doing this thing.  I'm finally putting all this hard work into print and it feels awesome!  So last night was not just about ringing in the New Year, it was also a release party.


     And something funny happened when I went to order this beautiful cake.  I gave them the picture and asked for the cover pictures be put on it.  I was told them needed the "Authors Permission"  So I gave it to them, he he he.  After the girl taking my order got all giggly.  She was excited because she never met a real life author before.  (Yeah, I did get a little bit of a big head, that was exciting)  Then when I picked up the cake yesterday, the same thing happened.  So I guess I am a little famous in my small town.

     So, here is my New Years wish for you...follow your dreams and don't let anyone stop you.  You never know where they will lead.

Peace, Love, & Prosperity in the New Year~JC