"A Christmas Favour" by Sascha Illyvich

A Christmas Favor

By Sascha Illyvich

Sascha is a regular in my blog, in case you haven't noticed. I consider myself one of his biggest fans, because he literally keeps me entertained. I don't know what I would do without his writing, because- now this is the truth: his writing helps me relax. I fantasize with his writing, and his writing is one I can actually get into. If you read as much as I do, there are certain writers whose words just don't "do it" for you. Sascha is not one of them. For me, he can get me to visually see and believe anything. Seriously, if you haven't read any of his books, my question to you is this: "Why not?" Because you don't know what you're missing!

Anyway, allow me to tell you about: "A Christmas Favour". At first I thought the book was going to be an, "Oh no!" Book. Because right from the start Christian seemed to not want to take things any further  with Angela. But then, I kind of understood why. People hate ruining friendships, once they turn into romance, the friendship tends to get ruined. But their was love; they both did feel the same for one another. 

Of course, there are obstacles, as with any relationship. And by all means, yes! I mean: yes! Yes! Yes! There is sex in this book. You don't think Sascha would write a book and leave that out do you?!

I was extremely impressed that there was a "Happily Ever After!" Sometimes you just need those! And especially a marriage! I love that! The perfect Wedding, that you can even fantasize about it. Every woman's dream! 

This book is heart warming, and worth the read. I truly enjoyed it, and give it five stars. I especially loved the fact that all the character names in this book were easy to pronounce and normal names. I really appreciate that, it made it much easier to read too! I like it when the names aren't difficult and out of the ordinary! (Much like my own name!)

Sascha is an extraordinary writer with amazing talent and skill. And every book he puts out, just proves more and more, that he can put his mind to anything! 

My Questions for Sascha:

*Remember I have interviewed Sascha numerous times, so this time I tried to come up with different questions. To see "normal" questions please seek the other interviews in this blog! Thank you! ~Deneale

1. Why did you write this book?

My sister was havng a hard time with life when I started my career so I wanted to write her a happy ending, because she deserves one.  

2. Have you ever been to Dallas?

Lived there for about a year.

3. Do you yourself have "computer tech" knowledge to speak of it?

I'm a former Tech GOD so yes.

4. Doesn't it make you feel good to make your Characters end & live happily ever after so to speak?

I do enjoy writing the HEA.

5. How long did it take you to write this book?

Oh hell, probably about three months or so?  It was my first story based on a short story I'd written to again give my sister a happy ending.  

6. What are you currently working on?

The 5th book in the Opeth Pack Saga.  I'm having to redo some of the writing because I think it needs to have both hero and one heroine's POV, rather than two heroines with the hero as the outsider, so 10,000 words of that is getting rewritten before I go back to moving the story forward. But the basis of the story is that Aurelia, the missing mate from Bianca and VIktor, must come to warn them of danger and an attack on Albuquerque, NM.  She brings not just bad news but her love with her, as uncertain as she is, and reluctantly, Bianca and Viktor must trust her and themselves to let things play out as they will, until Aurelia's attempt to save them causes Viktor to fall pray to perilous illness.  What will they do?

7. What are you reading?

Right now, I'm not reading anything for fun.  No spare time.  I edit for Ardnet Books, Secret Cravings and Sizzler Editions and have a huge back list, plus the 5th Opeth Pack book is due December 1st, 2014, I just finished a new menage story for a super secret project withi Kim Carmichael, et. al. and my Beloved is giving me new memories to associate with Thanksgiving, and November since I was so out of it last year around this time.

8. What are your favorite hobbies, if any?

Why don't you put on something comfortable, bring a bottle of champagne and come over.  I'll show you...

9. What do you do for entertainment when NOT writing?

The question is who do I do, and she knows exactly who she is, who must be made sweet love to often...

10. What are you passionate about?

My authors at Ardent Books, my own stories, my new relationships, cigars and alcohol...

11. What is/are your favorite color(s)?

Black, black, dark blue, purple....

12. Please provide all of your links for your fans:

Website:  Http://saschaillyvichauthor.com

Opeth Pack Home:  http://thesilverwolfprince.wix.com/opethpackwolves

Nights of Lust Home: http://thesilverwolfprince.wix.com/nights-of-lust

Amazon:  https://www.amazon.com/author/saschaillyvich

Facebook  http://www.facebook.com/saschaillyvich

Fan Page:  https://www.facebook.com/RomanceAuthorSaschaIllyvich

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/SaschaIllyvich

GoodReads:  http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2928546.Sascha_Illyvich

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/illyvich/boards/

YouTube Channel:  https://www.youtube.com/user/SaschaIllyvich?feature=mhee

13. Any extra comments to add:

I'm grateful for every fan I've ever had and will have as my market expands and I conquer this world!

A Christmas Favour by Sascha Illyvich
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sascha is a regular in my blog, in case you haven't noticed. I consider myself one of his biggest fans, because he literally keeps me entertained. I don't know what I would do without his writing, because- now this is the truth: his writing helps me relax. I fantasize with his writing, and his writing is one I can actually get into. If you read as much as I do, there are certain writers whose words just don't "do it" for you. Sascha is not one of them. For me, he can get me to visually see and believe anything. Seriously, if you haven't read any of his books, my question to you is this: "Why not?" Because you don't know what you're missing!

Anyway, allow me to tell you about: "A Christmas Favour". At first I thought the book was going to be an, "Oh no!" Book. Because right from the start Christian seemed to not want to take things any further with Angela. But then, I kind of understood why. People hate ruining friendships, once they turn into romance, the friendship tends to get ruined. But their was love; they both did feel the same for one another.

Of course, there are obstacles, as with any relationship. And by all means, yes! I mean: yes! Yes! Yes! There is sex in this book. You don't think Sascha would write a book and leave that out do you?!

I was extremely impressed that there was a "Happily Ever After!" Sometimes you just need those! And especially a marriage! I love that! The perfect Wedding, that you can even fantasize about it. Every woman's dream!

This book is heart warming, and worth the read. I truly enjoyed it, and give it five stars. I especially loved the fact that all the character names in this book were easy to pronounce and normal names. I really appreciate that, it made it much easier to read too! I like it when the names aren't difficult and out of the ordinary! (Much like my own name!)

Sascha is an extraordinary writer with amazing talent and skill. And every book he puts out, just proves more and more, that he can put his mind to anything!

View all my reviews

"Beyond the Event Horizon" by Scott Curtis

Beyond the Event Horizon by Scott Curtis McElhaney

A Novel by Scott Curits

 

This book is three hundred and ten pages long. And when it ended, I was quite upset, because I was left wanting more.

I feel this book could very much be an ongoing mini-series or saga. I in fact contacted the writer and told him so. After all, we are all entitled to our opinions.

This book leads you in many different directions, and you will want to read it if you like time travel, mystery, suspense, science fiction with a bit of humor and romance all wrapped up into one! Yes, it can be done, and was even done so with tact and best of all-enough class to throw in Christianity!

And before you go jumping to conclusions, for those of you who feel the "Christianity" has made you "not" want to read this book, let me advise you before you turn away- this version of Christianity within the words written by Scott Curits are not pushy, and meant to force God upon you. His words may in fact just be meant to familiarize you with the Lord, and get you to " thinking." If anything.
And as you read these well written words by Scott Curtis, you will be forced to do just that---think!!

You will look at our World today, and wonder what it "may" be like in the future, because after all, we are an ever changing World. And if you are anything like me, as I read his words, I remembered our past. Hitler came to mind for me. Because within this Novel Skylar Raines, who times travels and reads journals written by the people from the future learns, people from our past have somewhat experienced, in some ways. Not every event is the same, it is in fact has became much worse, that if more people would read this book-it just might open their eyes to a reality that we might not want.
Now, into the details of my read:

As I read the book, in the beginning, I found the book very similar to Scott Curtis' other book, "Life could be a dream" reading about Skylar Raines. Then it changed dramatically. I dearly loved how the computer system and Skylar became friends, and the "Hal" comparison from 2001 space odyssey. I couldn't help but chuckle there. Then when we switched to the future characters on the ship, I was upset, because I still wanted to learn more about Skylar and what he had learned and found.

However, I fell in love with the characters on the ship, too. Autumn and Chasen, you can't help but want their future to work out. You have a mystery to wonder about, a murder, and some other strange things. It is very engaging and keeps you involved and wanting more. Then you learn about the older people on the ship, and how they tried to make it a catastrophe, and failed. Then you learn about the planet where the ship is heading to. You feel bad for those people, and what all they have been through.

Then after a while, the book takes you onto the planet, and you learn of those people. In one section, again I ended up chuckling, because of the families down there on said planet. There are children there, a blind woman, elderly people, and the people on the planet have had their fair share of attacks, and illnesses, and trials and tribulations.

My favorite section with the people on the planet was when the young adults who lived with their mother and friend, recently married decided to sneak and have sex. Mind you, they are married! To do so, they put their dresser in front of their bedroom door. They called this moving furniture. There was a conversation a few months later or so between the son's mother, the daughter in law and the son. I can't remember exactly, but it embarrassed the daughter in law, and the son said they were moving furniture. The daughter in law, explained that the furniture moving had caused her to become pregnant. The mother became ecstatic and said they could move all the furniture they wanted, in fact, get in their right now, if it meant having more grand babies she didn't care. I couldn't help but laugh! Now the son had became embarrassed, it was a great section, you really have to read it!

The spaceship makes it to the planet. Luckily the good people on the planet were in hiding because the spaceship was set up with heat censored bombs. On the other side of the planet were the bad people. No one really knows if the bad people received the forewarning transmission from Amber and Chasen that they were coming. Then as you read, you are made aware that the good people on the planet had been building a boat to get to the other side of the planet. But you are left to wonder, did they ever really make it there, and did the people ever colonize together -- .what all happened and what all could have happened.

Then you are taken back to Skylar Raines. He lands on the planet, by an escape pod, because the planet has guns and rays to shoot any landing ships out of the sky. He loses his best friend, the awesome computer I told you about. He lands safely on the planet, finds the journals and writings of these people who seemed to be missing, or dead, or -- ..something -- --  

This is where I think many different ways could go with the next book -- ..  

Maybe they are on the other side of the planet? Maybe they are dead -- .who's to say?

Will Scott entice us yet again with another awesome book, continuing the journey where Autumn and Chasen left off, or "what!?!?" -- ..what can Scott tell us next?

And in case you are wondering, yes Skylar Raines did return to his normal time period.

This book is two thumbs up in my eyes, and I would most definitely like to read each and every book Scott writes, as always I am a loyal fan to Scott Curtis. He is an excellent writer and I enjoy his "way with words and his imagination!" Keep it up Scott! I am a fan for life!

Mommy's Choice by Scott Curits McElhaney

Mommy's Choice 

 by Scott Curtis McElhaney

Christian Suspense Novel

 

When I received a copy of "Mommy's Choice" written by first time author (when this book was first released): Scott Curtis McElhaney, I truly wasn't in the mood to read. But curiosity got the best of me, and I picked it up and read the back, and decided I needed to find out more. So I started reading. The next thing you know, it was nightfall and I couldn't put it down. I didn't want to go to sleep; I wanted to find out exactly what it was I was missing. So I read it, until I finished it that night.

Scott Curtis really opens your eyes, and makes you think. Not many people can actually do that for you anymore with their writings. It has a very unique and unpredictable ending, to which one cannot really and truly write about, because it will ruin it for you, the interested party. You honestly need to grab yourself a copy, so you too- can be drawn in; unable to put it down, and open up your mind and heart!

The book helps you look and relate with the relationship between a Mother and Son, and as the title states, "Mommy's choice." The characters are really people you and I can relate to! It also can help you understand Christianity, and the need to have a relationship with our Lord.

This book is something everyone should read, especially teens. It will help you, to think before you make your choice. Perhaps this story just might touch the right person, or even persons, and help them through a tough decision that could change their life forever; it is in fact-an eye opening book, which you will not be able to put down! However, as with most anything, this book could possibly cause controversy within a crowd. The book is also written in the Christian format, and helps you relate to Christianity, and understand becoming and the need to be a Christian as well. It is truly a wonderful Christian Suspense Novel.


This book enlightens you on Childbirth, and Abortion, and choices. Truly, it is eye opening. And I truly mean, eye opening. Something you may never think about. And perhaps you should. Those who are Pro~Choice and Pro~Life, will definitely agree, this book needs given to the youngsters of today, to make them think even before they make mistakes. Just a thought, and a good one I might add.

"Mommy's Choice" can be found at the following locations: www.Amazon.com, www.Target.com, www.BarnesandNoble.com, and Borders.com On a more personal note, I have found Amazon.com is always very descent with their pricing on just about anything! This is a small paperback- and this small paperback, had a huge impact on me! I give this book a ten on a scale of one through ten! Thank you, Scott Curtis McElhaney-for a wonderful story, to open our minds, hearts and eyes, all in one read! God has truly blessed this writer with talent!

Here is a photo of Scott with his wife Jenny. Scott live in Ohio, and has two Sons. He is a Christian, and writes in his spare time. Scott is also the third child of four siblings. Scott teaches Sunday School, and works at as an associate sales manager with a big tool company. 

 

Mommy's Choice by Scott Curtis

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

When I received a copy of "Mommy's Choice" written by first time author (when this book was first released): Scott Curtis McElhaney, I truly wasn't in the mood to read. But curiosity got the best of me, and I picked it up and read the back, and decided I needed to find out more. So I started reading. The next thing you know, it was nightfall and I couldn't put it down. I didn't want to go to sleep; I wanted to find out exactly what it was I was missing. So I read it, until I finished it that night.

Scott Curtis McElhaney really opens your eyes, and makes you think. Not many people can actually do that for you anymore with their writings. It has a very unique and unpredictable ending, to which one cannot really and truly write about, because it will ruin it for you, the interested party. You honestly need to grab yourself a copy, so you too- can be drawn in; unable to put it down, and open up your mind and heart!

The book helps you look and relate with the relationship between a Mother and Son, and as the title states, "Mommy's choice." The characters are really people you and I can relate to! It also can help you understand Christianity, and the need to have a relationship with our Lord.

This book is something everyone should read, especially teens. It will help you, to think before you make your choice. Perhaps this story just might touch the right person, or even persons, and help them through a tough decision that could change their life forever; it is in fact-an eye opening book, which you will not be able to put down! However, as with most anything, this book could possibly cause controversy within a crowd. The book is also written in the Christian format, and helps you relate to Christianity, and understand becoming and the need to be a Christian as well. It is truly a wonderful Christian Suspense Novel.

This book enlightens you on Childbirth, and Abortion, and choices. Truly, it is eye opening. And I truly mean, eye opening. Something you may never think about. And perhaps you should. Those who are Pro~Choice and Pro~Life, will definitely agree, this book needs given to the youngsters of today, to make them think even before they make mistakes. Just a thought, and a good one I might add.

"Mommy's Choice" can be found at the following locations: www.Amazon.com, www.Target.com, www.BarnesandNoble.com, and Borders.com On a more personal note, I have found Amazon.com is always very descent with their pricing on just about anything! This is a small paperback- and this small paperback, had a huge impact on me! I give this book a ten on a scale of one through ten! Thank you, Scott Curtis-for a wonderful story, to open our minds, hearts and eyes, all in one read! God has truly blessed this writer with talent!

View all my reviews

"Running Outta Time" by Scott Curtis

The book: "Running Outta Time" is as the cover states- three complete novels. The novelist who wrote it: Scott Curtis. This being his third published novel, the others include: "Mommy's Choice" and "Life Could Be a Dream!"

 

The first story: "One Crazy Summer" is about teens that work at a department store, and through the death of a fellow employee, learn about the possibility of money hidden within the store.

The story line, makes you want to keep reading, just to find out- to see what happens next. Your curiosity will get the best of you, and you will keep reading.

The best part, is that there are twists and turns, and things you really didn't "expect" per say. You will feel bad for the characters; you will bond with them, and feel like you too, are searching to solve this mystery.

The next story: "Brooksie" is about time travel. There is a door in Eddie's basement, which leads him to 1928, and into an amusement park. But within this town, there are "rules!"

Eddie meets Brooksie, a famous actress in hiding from her Manager. He learns of a missing person from his era, who resides within 1928, because he too- went through the door in his basement. Eddie, in order to learn about the actress whose name is really Patience Webb, researches online, while in his era. He learns she will die, and wants to prevent this from happening. Much to our surprise at the end, as to if she dies, and how....

You need to read this story, to learn the details! BUT! My favorite part about this particular story, was the story within a story. Eddie and Patience/Brooksie find a book while they are hiding out from her Manager/fiancé. They start reading a loud, to help them relax. As they read it, the author is kind enough to share it with us, and the book they are reading, is just as interesting!!

The next story: "Daylight in Blossom" is about two cousins, and their nightmares, if you will. Through their nightmares, and protecting one another- Autumn becomes convinced that her cousin is a superhero. He has always came to her rescue, and has tragic events in his life, and only gets wounded, never seeming to die.

Through out this book, you start to think that maybe Autumn is just a wee bit insane, or could possibly have other things wrong with her, and maybe she ought to seek medical attention. As the book goes on, and you realize the tragedy that Autumn and her cousin Tyler have gone through as children, it is then that you feel compelled to understand and feel bad for her.

Autumn has a pet hamster Chuckles, and that too- is an amazing tale as to how she "acquired" her hamster. And apparently through traveling-air lines seem to not permit hamsters. So Autumn must figure out what to do with her hamster.

The part that made me laugh most, was at the end of the book. You think its over, and the story is done, and then you have: "But wait...Aren't there usually more scenes during the credits?" And then we have three more scenes that will make you laugh! And these scenes DO go along with the book!
All together, I was utterly and totally impressed. As I kept reading, I didn't want to put the book down!

I just had to know more! If and when I put the book down, I would wonder about what would happen next.

If your reading material is lacking the desire to read it, you need to give Author: Scott Curtis a try. Scott Curtis is his "pen name." He lives in Munroe Falls, Ohio and has two sons and has been marries for well over eighteen years.

To reach this author simply email:scurtis.fiction@sbcglobal.net

I give this book two thumbs up, and more if I had them! On a scale of one through ten, a definite ten!  

"Life Could be a Dream" by Scott Curtis

I was lucky enough to acquire the book: "Life Could be a Dream" by second time- Author Scott Curtis. As you may well have noticed, I reviewed his first book, "Mommy's Choice." as well.

 

I can honestly say, that Scott Curtis has made his way into my personal category of favorite writers. And that is not an easy title to get. I originally had three favorite Authors, and they were: Stephen King, John Grisham and Iris Johansen.

Several months back, I removed King- for several reasons not worthy of discussion here. But now, in order of preference are as follows: Iris Johansen, Scott Curtis, and John Grisham.

But enough about me, let me tell you about this wonderful book!

This book is not what I expected, especially after reading his first book; I expected it to take a different route all together. Since we were dealing with domestic violence in the book, I thought it would truly be a nightmare, which is a type of dream, or something to do with his past. Because, if you read the back of the book, it deals with the fifties.

Once again, as with "Mommy Dearest" I started the book in the afternoon, and couldn't go to bed until it was done. I wanted to- trust me, and the last five or so pages, I was like so tired, but there was no way I could leave myself with unanswered questions. I had to know more!

Sean is them main character, he is the one with the abusive father. His Mother, Melissa is in abusive relationship, and often worries about her son, because she has already lost her daughter. Well, that in itself, I feel I have said too much, because things turn out so differently at the end, you will have drop jaw. I will tell you, as with many of Scott's books, he time travels in them. As does he in this one. Sean hides out fifty years in the past, in 1958. He meets a beautiful girl, her name is Clara. The book opens your heart, and makes you dream, and think. Most of all, imagine. 

If you read "Mommy's choice" you may want to know, if this book, is that detailed in the aspect of the Christianity, and Bible quotations. It does speak and refer to the Bible and Christianity, yes. But no, it is nothing like his first book. It just guides you to look at your life, do things for the greater good, behave yourself and make yourself a better person. Yes, there are biblical quotes, but these ones are more understanding and make a quicker and better impact on you and your life choices. Yes "Mommy's Choice" does the same, but the two are very different, trust me.

I did however email Mr. Curtis, because he is one of those Authors who does want to know what you think. He told me, that he truly enjoyed writing this book. And if you read it, trust me, you will see why. Read it, absorb it, and then use your imagination.

This book is a truly must read. It deals with Science Fiction, romance, life and Christianity. Who knew you could mix them all up like that, but it certainly worked, and I was truly impressed, and now my teens are reading it. I can hardly wait for Mr. Curtis to put out another book, I love being pulled into his thoughts, "dreams" and words. They make me "see" and relate and keep me wanting more.
On a scale of one to ten, ten being the best, I give this book a perfect ten, two thumbs up and a standing ovation!


To you who are reading this, go buy this book! You can get it at Amazon, order online and have it in a few days! You will be glad you did! And that is being said by an avid, every day reader!

"The Dead Lands" by Dylan J. Morgan

"The Dead Lands" 

by 

Dylan J. Morgan 

As I began reading this book, I freaked out a little. One of my favorite "kinky" writers knows why. But it wasn't until later, I learned what the problem was, and yes, I will elaborate rather than leave everyone guessing. 

You see, I was reading it on my iPad, not my kindle. Well, through the iPad, it works a bit differently, which tends to confuse some. Alright: me. (Don't even laugh!) The size of your font, depends on how many pages a book will have. Who knows this?! I mean, seriously?! 

I opened it up to read the book. It must be a misprint, as I gulp. I flip the page. Nope....swallowing hard. It still reads over three thousand. I tell my writer friend. He looks it up online, (why didn't I think of that?!) he says it says something like two something. He asks me what I think so far. I explain its Sci-Fi. 

Needless, to say, I went to Kindle and iPad both to learn about my font size adjustment to feel like a loon. So, if this ever happens to you, don't fret. It's your font size. Not the book. Now, you have learned something! (Stop laughing!)

Now then. On with my review of Dylan's book: "The Dead Lands" which as I've already enlightened you, is a science fiction book. I'll have you know: it's Sci-Fi with a kick! And let it be known that as I was reading it, I couldn't help but picturing it as a Movie. I could see so many options for it, and even taking it further. But as we all know, this is my opinion, and my imagination, as I read, you may see things differently; but if you grasp his words as well as I did. I doubt you will doubt me. 

He can see, his words allow you to see. And as I was reading, I knew, one of the questions I was going to ask him, was if he felt his book, could ever be a movie! 

I was drawn in, wanting more. I was curious, and enlightened. It's a book that you won't be able to put down, once you become engrossed in it, because you won't want to leave Lane unattended. I mean trust me. You won't want to.  These people, these things.... are you even remotely interested yet? You should be! It's a definite five star book in my eyes, what are you waiting for?! 

And these um... "The Dead Lands" I don't suggest leaving these words unattended either. Because if we aren't careful, leaving these words alone.... with those things...

As for Dylan, he is a wonderful, friendly person. I enjoy him very much! He was born in New Zealand, and now resides in the United Kingdom. He loves associating with his fans, and spending much of his time writing! Don't be afraid to contact him on Twitter, he is quite a social butterfly there! Least wise, I think so. 

 

 My Interview Questions for Dylan:

1. What made you write this book?

Believe it or not, a video game. I have an Xbox, play it weekly, and the one game I spent a lot of time on a year or so ago was Rage, a first person post apocalyptic shooter game from Bethesda Softworks. Basically, the plot is that Earth is destroyed by an asteroid and it’s become a lawless world, controlled by bandits. One mission in the game is to enter the main city to recover a defibrillator from the hospital, but the city is crawling with mutants that jump out of nowhere with blades and try to kill you. I just thought what an awesome story it would make, having a group of people thrust into such a city against insurmountable odds, and watch them try to survive.

2. Do any of these characters resemble you in some way shape or form?

Ha, I hope not! With that said, I think there’s a little bit of someone in every character ever created, but putting a piece of myself into a character is not something I have ever purposely done.

3. Do you think this book would make for a good Movie?

Yes, but then I would say that. Just the situation and the environment would make for a good movie I feel, and I have noticed a few comments in the reviews I’ve had so far have mention that the story could work being turned into a movie, so I’m glad other people have thought that way. You never know, maybe a producer or director might happen upon it one day.

4. Whom is your favorite character in this book?

That’s a really hard one to answer as there are a few characters I’m quite fond of in the novel. Reese and Braeden are strong characters, and Ludger is pure desperation which makes him stand out. I’m torn between selecting the main character, Lane, or Blaine, who is a young man living on the post apocalyptic planet where the soldiers are sent to. Lane is the typical hero in this story, hard and tough, handsome, a fighter, and someone who has had his heart broken yet cannot let go of the love of his life. But Blaine has had a harsh existence guarding over the settlement in which he lives. His is plagued by his mother’s death, and her words to him that everyone has a path in life and that he should follow his. This leads him to make the decisions he does, and try to make something of his life. His situation speaks a lot for people who have hopes and dreams (however big or small) yet don’t act on them, and when you do, that’s when you find out if you can live your life the way you want to.

5. How many books have you written?

Well, there’s three full-length novels (Hosts, Flesh, and The Dead Lands), four novellas (although three are a trilogy of werewolf-vampire books), and a collection of short stories. All of my titles are available on Amazon Kindle, and a select few can be purchased at Barnes and Noble or Smashwords. All three novels and my collection are also available in paperback.

6. Are you, or do you plan on going in a book tour?

I am not, at the moment, on a book tour, but I certainly wouldn’t rule it out in the future. As I live in Europe the easiest form of tour for me would be a blog tour and I have looked into it in the past. I think I need to contact some of my author friends who have done these types of tours and find out how they profitable they are in relation to book sales. As for an actual flesh-and-blood tour, that would be awesome, but at the moment I neither have the money or the status in the publishing world to pull something like that off.

7. How long have you been writing?

A little more than ten years. I’ve been writing for a lot longer than that, but around 2002 and 2003 was when I made the decision that I would seriously try and get stories published in various venues online and in print. I honed my craft writing short stories before eventually getting to the stage where the stories themselves couldn’t be contained and the longer works began to form.

8. Whom is/are your favorite Author(s)?

A while ago I would have said Stephen King and Dean Koontz, some of James Herbert’s books too, but I think that’s probably true of a lot of horror authors of my generation. These days my favorite authors, those who I try to read as often as I can, are my peers: the other independent authors I share space with on Twitter, who are trying to gain a readership just like me. There are a ton of high quality authors out there, and I’m fortunate to say that some of them have become good acquaintances. Authors such as Kealan Patrick Burke, Joe Hart, and Craig McGray, are the ones who push me to be better than I am.

9. How much time do you spend writing?

As much time as I can. It’s important to write every day, but I’m also of the opinion that it’s important not to force the words either. I live by the rule that a story will be as long or as short as it needs to be, and it will be finished when it’s ready. If I manage to write for half an hour then that’s all I need to do. If I manage longer then that’s great, but I’ll only write for as long as there are words flowing.

10. What kind of education and skills do you have?

Not much of an education; I’m a dreamer, I have a huge imagination that runs away with itself and it’s been that way for as long as I can remember. I learned what I wanted to in school, I had fun, and I dreamed of becoming a rock star. That’s not something I tell my children, of course, I tell them that school is important and they must try their best to get good grades, but for me that didn’t matter. If I was a studier instead of a dreamer I wouldn’t be a published author. As for skills: I can cook, I can play drums and guitar, I can play darts, I can write stories. I can’t sing and dance though.

11. What suggestions do you have to offer, for someone wanting to pursue a writing career? 

Write loads. Read loads. Don’t ever think that what you’ve written is the best literature on the planet because it isn’t. But it could be really really good if you take the time to edit, and edit, and edit some more, before getting reliable proof readers to critique your work, before you edit it again. Be dedicated and willing to learn. Grow a thick skin, because not everyone will like what you write and you must learn to accept rejection and criticism. Have fun, and write what you want to write.

12. Are you currently working on another book?

Yes, I am writing a horror novel titled The Sickness which delves into the macabre art of necromancy. That’s just a plot device; hopefully this will be a character driven novel. I started it a while ago, but it got abandoned while I wrote The Dead Lands, and it has been put to the side just recently while I wrote a bunch of flash fiction for my website. I have also started on a few early chapters of a new post apocalyptic novel, but that book is still in the early stages of formulating the plot and ideas.

13. Please provide for us any web sites and ways for your fans to reach you and find your work:

The easiest way for somebody to get a taste of my writing is to visit my website, www.dylanjmorgan.com and click on the link marked The Crypt. This will take you to a long list of short fiction that is available free to read. Comments about my work are welcomed, too. I also have a page on Goodreads, https://www.goodreads.com/dylanjmorgan, where all my work is listed and readers are able to give reviews. For the real me, and an ideal way for anyone to interact with me, simply head over to Twitter and follow me at @dylanjmorgan

Thank you Dylan! It was truly and honor!

"Rising Tide: Dark Innocense" by Claudette Melanson

"Rising Tide: Dark Innocense" 

by Claudette Melanson

This vampire book, was a completely different read, and I must admit, it made it worth reading, as well as intriguing. 

The young girl, Maura is living at home with her Mother, always wondering about her Father, and going through changes with her body. Not just the typical teen changes either. 

Now as a Mother myself, I was at first wondering why her Mother hadn't just up and explained it to her, rather then keep it hidden from her, but once you get to the end of the book, it all comes full circle and you're like: "Ooooh."  But as I read it, I'm like getting irritated with the Mother and wanting to slap her for not telling Maura, who is thinking something is wrong with her, and possibly even creating an ulcer for herself with worry. On the same token, I was wondering, after watching so many Vampire Movies, why Maura hadn't herself put two and two together, "Hmmm.... I wonder..." but then again...maybe Vampires aren't real....OR are they?

I enjoyed the romance, the life events, the ups and downs, the involvements, and being a part of everything. I felt like I was right there. Like I was watching first hand. 

This book is truly enjoyable, worth reading over and over again, until I was at the end, I screamed, "Wait a  minute, I wanna know if she tells Ron...I wanna know how she took the news, you just can't leave me hangin' like this......please! I want more!" and then I read "About the Author" and then I clicked my Kindle again and guess what? It says submit that you read this, and I did, and it said it was a trilogy and I screamed really loud "YES!" 

I have found a new Author and books that I truly want to read and keep reading, and I feel that anyone who reads them, will feel the same way. This book pulls you in, and is very inspiring, and uplifting. It makes your imagination work, and you'll see and feel like you're right there!

I give this book five stars out of five, because it is worth it. Read it, you'll agree and see. Claudette knows what she's doing. 

My Interview Questions for Claudette:

1. What inspired you to write this book? 
Dreams!  I dreamed about Maura for years!  
She appeared in dreams over and over revealing a bit of her story
little by little.  She kept showing up until there was no way I couldn't
write her.  As I started writing her story more and more of it kept coming
together in my mind.  She's just a part of my life that lives inside me now.


2. Curious, where did the choice in names of your characters come from?   
 I actually wanted a name that meant "Bitter."  So when I Googled that, Maura
came up as "Sea of Bitterness."  It was perfect.  Caelyn's came from
Googling Italian names for girls. It was so uncommon, I just fell in love
with it.  Ron was my college love and my husband's name. I had to use that
name for the love interest, as it has a thousand wonderful memories attached
to it.  Shane is my brother's name, Merina is really his wife's name and
Susie is my sister in real life and actual best friend!

3. Are any of the characters based as you?  
Maura has a little of me in her, maybe when I was younger, but she is far more different.  
The Ron is based on kind of a combination of my college love and current husband, 
both named Ron.  They have very similar personalities.  My siblings do show up.  Shane
is my real, nineteen-years-younger brother and Susie is based on my real
sister.  She is in reality my actual best friend


4. How long have you been writing?  
Since I could pick up a pen.  Before that I was narrating scenery around me in my head, 
and all the things people would do, too.  I wrote stories for all kinds of contests 
as a child and for my favorite people, like my dance teacher.  I continued to write lots of
novel starts and shorter stories in college, but never seemed to be able to
finish a novel.  I always had too many new ideas popping into my head.  When
I got close to forty I said to myself it was time to buckle down and finish.
Maura had been with me so long, I had more than enough fodder to finally
complete a novel, though her story isn't done yet!


5. How many books have you written, or plan to?  
As many as I can.  I haveabout twenty starts and even more ideas.  
Unfortunately, I am not a full-time writer at the moment and that severely 
hampers my writing.  I have to do all my own marketing too, so it doesn't 
leave lots of writing time.  I will work as hard as I can, because the more books 
I get out there, the more likely I am to earn enough of a living to do so as my main job.  
I want that more than anything!


6. What all education have you had?  
 I originally wanted to be a high-school
English teacher, but loving literature and teaching it to teenagers are two
very different things.  I just wasn't cut out for it.  So I stayed on at
college to complete twelve more English credits so I could graduate with a
double major:  BA in English and BS in English Education.  I needed to
figure out what to do with myself, so I went back and got my Master of Arts
in Literature.  I thought I might get my PhD and be a college professor, but
I was just too burnt out on school.  For practical reasons I did earn my
certificate in Dental Assisting in beautiful Vancouver, British Columbia.
Because of my Rheumatoid Arthritis, I'm not really able to do that anymore,
though.


7. What writers inspire you?  I LOVE Stephenie Meyer.  I know Twilight has
its haters, but they are my most favorite books.  I think her writing is
brilliant and she does such an excellent way of revealing what's in her
character's head.  She's great with dialogue, too.  Before I read those,
Anne Rice was a huge influence for me.  I have read nearly every book she's
written and love her style and characterization.  Stephen King, Charlaine
Harris and Melissa Marr.  Lili Abernathy is one of my favorite Indie
authors.


8. Do you yourself "like" Vampire movies, books and stories, etc?  I have
been a vampire fanatic, since I was a teeny-tiny girl.  I read every vampire
book I can get my hands on and watch every movie--not all of them so great,
lol.  I like the True Blood kind of vampires.  Vampires with fangs, but also
heart.  It's always bothered me that in most vampire movies the vampires end
up dead.  I can remember scaring my mother because I was always talking
about wanting to turn into a vampire myself!


9. What is the spookiest/scariest Movie you have ever seen?  I think I'd
have to say, Sinister.  Not to give the ending away, but the thought of who
the killers actually turn out to be is super scary.  They aren't supposed to
be murderers.  It's bizarre to think it possible.  Think about The
Shining...it was a spooky part of that movie too.  All the monster boxes in
Cabin in the Woods was pretty darn creepy, as well!



10. What is the scariest book you have ever read?  It's been a long time
since I read it, but I can remember that Stephen King's The Dark Half scared
me half to death.  I was pretty young then, though.  If I read it again now,
I might be a little more seasoned.


11. Do you believe in Vampires?  Ok, I can't say for certain they do not
exist.  I found this one quote that was so strong, and I spent all night
looking for it again, but this person says there has been so much history
and testimony of them that it's almost impossible for them to not be real.
They could have been humans that were a mutation and because they were
different they were killed off.  Or some could have survived and feared the
discrimination, so live in hiding.  I've lived in a house with a poltergeist
and know people who see spirits.  I don't discount anything, because I don't
believe we know all of what's in this world.  If you think about it,
paranormal beings would be very good at hiding themselves from mere mortals.



12. Have you or do you hope to or plan to do a book tour?  I am finishing up
a tour with Orangeberry right now.  I'm a little nervous because they
promise 20-25 reviews with the tour and not one has been posted yet *bites
nails.*  I would like to do another tour that is geared toward more YA or
paranormal sites, as well.



13. Who does the character Maura remind you of, if anyone in particular?
She really doesn't.  She reminds me of me with the video gaming and love of
anime, but she's always been her own person in my head.  She started as a
dream and her story grew and grew, and she's really her own person,
completely.

14. Please provide all links to you, and your work:
http://claudettemelanson.wix.com/author
https://www.facebook.com/Cmelansonauthor
https://twitter.com/Bella623
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7881896.Claudette_Melanson
http://www.pinterest.com/claudemelanson/
http://www.amazon.com/Rising-Tide-Innocence-Trilogy-Vampire-ebook/dp/B00IHN4S00/ref=sr_1_cc_1?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1402259216&sr=1-1-catcorr&keywords=rising+tide+dark+innocence
http://www.amazon.com/Shimmer-Faeries-Tragic-Claudette-Melanson-ebook/dp/B00KJPFGQO/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1409873250&sr=1-1&keywords=shimmer+melanson

16. Any addition info you'd like to provide for your fans:  Thank you,
thank you!! I appreciate every single book sale, every review, every kind
word.  My book would be nothing without you.  I realize this and do a
giveaway on my author site every month.  This month you can enter to win a
$100 Amazon card here:
http://claudettemelanson.wix.com/author#!giveaways---places-to-win-a-print-copy/ckb0  In a couple of months, book two of the Maura DeLuca trilogy and
sequel to Rising Tide will be released.  It will be titled Undertow:
Death's Twilight.  It should be available for preorder this coming weekend,
September 6th.  One more thing, adopt a houserabbit today! We have four
little bundles of love.
Rising Tide: Dark Innocence by Claudette Melanson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This vampire book, was a completely different read, and I must admit, it made it worth reading, as well as intriguing.

The young girl, Maura is living at home with her Mother, always wondering about her Father, and going through changes with her body. Not just the typical teen changes either.

Now as a Mother myself, I was at first wondering why her Mother hadn't just up and explained it to her, rather then keep it hidden from her, but once you get to the end of the book, it all comes full circle and you're like: "Ooooh." But as I read it, I'm like getting irritated with the Mother and wanting to slap her for not telling Maura, who is thinking something is wrong with her, and possibly even creating an ulcer for herself with worry. On the same token, I was wondering, after watching so many Vampire Movies, why Maura hadn't herself put two and two together, "Hmmm.... I wonder..." but then again...maybe Vampires aren't real....OR are they?

I enjoyed the romance, the life events, the ups and downs, the involvements, and being a part of everything. I felt like I was right there. Like I was watching first hand.

This book is truly enjoyable, worth reading over and over again, until I was at the end, I screamed, "Wait a minute, I wanna know if she tells Ron...I wanna know how she took the news, you just can't leave me hangin' like this......please! I want more!" and then I read "About the Author" and then I clicked my Kindle again and guess what? It says submit that you read this, and I did, and it said it was a trilogy and I screamed really loud "YES!"

I have found a new Author and books that I truly want to read and keep reading, and I feel that anyone who reads them, will feel the same way. This book pulls you in, and is very inspiring, and uplifting. It makes your imagination work, and you'll see and feel like you're right there!

I give this book five stars out of five, because it is worth it. Read it, you'll agree and see. Claudette knows what she's doing!




View all my reviews