~Spotlight: Lawful Claim by Marie Johnston~

Agent E wasn’t always an evil Sigma Agent. Even though evil had her claws in him, he couldn’t help but hang on to his past and watch over the family he lost, protecting them by staying dead to them. Until one night, he interfered.

When Ana Esposito’s life, and that of her son, was saved by the husband she had buried over a decade ago, she found her world irrevocably changed. Any chance of safety for her and her son lay with the hardened man that used to be the love of her life.

Where you can find Lawful Claim:

Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/Lawful-Claim-Sigma-Menace-Book-ebook/dp/B015JEAL28/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1458280809&sr=8-1&keywords=lawful+claim

Barnes and Noble:  http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/lawful-claim-marie-johnston/1122668259?ean=9781517407292

Where you can find Marie:

https://www.facebook.com/Marie-Johnston-593148834163855/timeline/

Website:  mariejohnstonwriter.com

Twitter:  @mjohnstonwriter

Interview with Marie:

1.  Please tell me about your book and why you decided to write it.

Demetrius was a character who had a rich back story as soon as I wrote him. Each time he appeared in The Sigma Menace series, I was super excited because he was such a fun dude. It helped that he’s a vampire and I kinda wanted to start writing about fangers. When I finished Pure Claim, book five in The Sigma Menace, it felt like that was the end of an era. I didn’t want to give up on the world and so many characters who needed their story told, so I took it in a spin-off direction. Demetrius was the perfect character to begin the Unnatural Disorder series. All the books in this series will have names for titles; therefore, book 1 is Demetrius.

2.  Who are some of your favorite authors and why?

If I could grow up to be J.R. Ward, I’d be especially happy. I’ve been a fan of her work since Dark Lover and I’ve studied the reasons why her writing sets the bar so high in my mind. Following writers on social media made me admire Ward even more. She lets us catch a glimpse of her life and personality without spamming us with marketing. Ward also writes her posts herself, not her assistant. I achieved super fan status when I wrote a blog about what I learned about writing from her. It was meant to be only five things I learned from her, but it grew into 20. So I broke it up into four parts and tagged her on Twitter for each post. I felt like I was being nothing but a nuisance, but I respect her so damn much, you know? I wanted to share my gushing. Once the four parts were posted, she tweeted some of the nicest words of encouragement. It means a ton to newbies like me to get a shout out from the biggest names in the business.

3.  What do you hope to accomplish as a writer?

Did I mention I want to be J.R. Ward when I grow up? I want to be at the top of my chosen genre. I want to write novels that help people get lost and enjoy every minute. I think romance will always be my primary genre, but I do have a few other books in mind. There are two deeply emotional women’s lit books banging around in my head. Most dear to my heart are two historical fiction stories I want to write. Both are based are true stories, but I won’t be able to make them biographical.

4.  Preferences:  Night or Day?  Coffee or soda?  Camping or Resort?  Cats or Dogs?

My first born helped me turn back into the morning person I was born to be. I just don’t function as well as the day gets longer.

I wake up to my diet soda and sometimes need to supplement with coffee. Forty is on the horizon and I’ve only just started drinking coffee.

I want to be a camper so darn bad, but I can’t stand trying to keep my kids from falling into the campfire. I hate packing all my stuff to go set it in the dirt. If we camp, it’s very minimal and it includes either fishing or hiking. When the kids are older, it may be more enjoyable. Otherwise, it’s resort all the way.

Both, but I sway more towards cats. I love their finicky temperament, and they’re just so fluffy! I do love a big dog though. Someday, *sigh* we’ll get a place with some land so we can have a big dog or two.

5.  What would you like your readers to know about you?

I truly value every reader I have. I want to take something I really enjoy doing, and make it into a career. I can’t do that without readers and their support and encouragement.

6.  If you could give me one piece of advice about life, what would it be?

Patience. I used to think I was a patient person - until I got older. Now I’m relying heavily on patience to undo all the bad effects of my impulsiveness. Whether it’s money, career, school - make a flexible plan and have the patience to stick with it. Sometimes the change we want to see, that we are working hard on seeing, takes time. Easier said than done though.

~Spotlight: Cross Academy by Valicity Garris~

Imagine looking outside and seeing a wall that stands over 30 meters high and 5 meters thick. This wall encircles the entire village. It keeps the danger out...but it locks you in.

What's outside?

Demons.

Humanity was pushed to the brink of extinction when legions of demons crawled from beneath the earth and devoured two-thirds of the world’s population in a single night. For centuries, humans have been locked in a war with monsters—and they are not winning. There comes a day when the evil supernatural creatures break through the village walls and this time they hit with a vengeance.

Sixteen-year-old Fox Fire watches as her home is reduced to rubble. Desperate to protect her loved ones, she joins Cross Academy and devotes herself to destroying demons. But her loyalty is tested when she learns her best friend is possessed by one.

Fox must decide if she will be loyal to the Cross or spare her only companion. Slaying the monsters doesn’t seem so easy anymore.

Reviews:

5.0 out of 5 stars and it is impossible not to fall in love with them as the story races faster and faster

ByTimon December 26, 2015

Format: Kindle Edition

Cross Academy is a clever fantasy set in the village of Wee, years after much of the world's population was destroyed in the Demon War. Fox Fire, the heroin of the story, comes of age in a white-knuckle adventure, where she battles demons and witches in living color.

Valicity Garris carefully crafts her characters, and it is impossible not to fall in love with them as the story races faster and faster. KI is the outsider and protector that is wholly inadequate for the task. Cole is the untamable, hardened warrior. Each character is his/her own work of art, and they are certainly worth investing oneself in.

Perhaps most remarkable is the creative, imaginative setting, a fantastical world unlike anything on earth. While this story is outside of my genre of choice, the magical setting alone makes the trip to Wee a worthwhile adventure. I believe that Valicity Garris has a bright literary future ahead of her.

5.0 out of 5 stars Pleasantly Surprised and Thrilled

BySusan Rushon December 30, 2015

Format: Kindle EditionVerified Purchase

To be honest, my plan was to skim Cross Academy to make sure it’s an appropriate book for my tween since I’m unfamiliar with this author. Wow! I wasn’t expecting this! YA fantasy isn’t typically a genre I enjoy, but the story drew me in from page one. The multiple layers of the story kept me engaged until the last page.Usually when I read, it’s clear what I like most about the writer, but this wasn’t the case with Cross Academy. Garris masterfully crafts her character development, description, plot and spiritual elements like a seasoned, best-selling author. I’m thrilled to have found a new author that not only my daughter can read, but I can enthusiastically follow as well.​

Where you can find Cross Academy:

http://www.amazon.com/Cross-Academy-Valicity-Garris-ebook/dp/B0141YR5K8/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top?ie=UTF8

Where you can find Valicity:

Website:  http://www.therebelchristian.com/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/ValicityGarris

Goodreads:  https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5234254.Valicity_Garris

Interview with Valicity:

1. Tell me about your book and why you decided to write it.

Cross Academy is a YA dark fantasy novel set in a post-apocalyptic world engulfed in demonic warfare. That sounds like a headful of crazy when I say it out loud but the reason I decided to write it was pretty simple.

I’m a huge fan of American comics, my favorite being DC’s Teen Titans. There was a cartoon version on TV when I was a kid and one day I was just watching some reruns and reminiscing in its awesomeness. Teen Titans was a show about teenage superheroes who lived in a giant T-shaped tower protecting the innocent citizens in the surrounding city.

While I was watching I just thought, how cool would it be if that were twisted into a Christian show? Instead of having teenage heroes we could have war hardened Priests, instead of living in a T-shaped tower they could have a militaristic faction within a giant cross shaped tower, instead of protecting the citizens from bank robbers and whatnot, their main enemy could be demons. Then I just thought, whatever, let’s throw in the end of the world and bam. Cross Academy was born.

I do realize that sounds just as crazy as the description but I’ve gotten good feedback so far!

2. What is your favorite genre to read and why?

Even though I write YA fantasy, I love reading contemporary fiction. I feel like a lot of the issues in our society could be best addressed and presented to the people—as in the people who aren’t necessarily politically apt—through an intriguing story. Things that are often seen as controversial could be made into something that’s easier to talk about or simply brought more awareness if there was a character and a story with it that audiences could relate to.

3. Who are some of your favorite authors? Why do you enjoy their books?

Definitely Kathryn Stockett, she did an amazing job with The Help. Her writing is funny even though she’s talking about something that’s very serious and even painful for some to think about.

I also enjoy Rainbow Rowell, author of Eleanor and Park, simply because she’s increasingly using minority characters in her work. Diversity is something that definitely catches my attention as a reader.

4. What would you like your readers to know about you?

I feel like readers take a look at my blog and my bio and think that I’m strictly a Christian author writing for Christian readers. I’d like them to know that’s not the case. Don’t get me wrong, Christ comes first in my life, and my writing definitely brings in Christian references and themes but my aim is to blur the lines between secular fiction and religious fiction. CS Lewis did it perfectly with The Chronicles of Narnia, JRR Tolkien did it with The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings. I’m certain it can be done again.

5. If you could have one wish fulfilled, what would it be?

You know, my wish is really to write. Sure, I’d love to be on par with some of the famous authors today. I’d like movies made and crazy fandoms dedicated to my work but really … I just want to get my ideas out there and still have time for my video games ahaha. So my wish is being fulfilled with every stroke of the keyboard. All that other stuff would just be a bonus.

6. If you could give me one piece of advice about life, what would it be?

One piece of advice about life? Gosh … the words of Winston Churchill keep me going, I’d have to share his famous quote; “Never, never, never give up!”

~Letter Of Intent #2 by Diamante Lavendar~

Letters Of Intent are ways to focus on increasing your power and perspective in life.  Here's Letter #2:

The time is NOW to rise and shine.  The time is always NOW.

People persist in believing in yesterday and tomorrow, but those are only illusions.  NOW is all we have.  NOW is all there is.  That is why many people experience a delay in achieving their dreams.  They look for answers in yesterday and tomorrow.  And while some answers may be found in those places, they must be applied to NOW.  Because NOW is the timetable of life.

Take the lessons from yesterday, take the dreams from tomorrow and plant them in NOW.  It is the only way to truly thrive in your life journey.  The moment you're in means everything.

Blessings,

Diamante

~Review of Twisted Faith by Victoria Schwimley~

Pastor David Owens came to New Hope Christian church expecting to revive a flailing congregation. What he got instead was just a building filled with grumbling, gossiping people.

Then one night, as he’s locking up to go home, he receives a desperate call from a young woman in the parking lot.

Abigail Stein is seventeen and an unwed mother. Persecuted by religiously fanatical parents, Abby is on the verge of killing herself—along with her baby.

David turns to God for guidance, calling on all his training to save the lives of this young woman and her child. Is it enough? Can David help her see the strength of God’s love before it’s too late?

My Review:  5 Stars!

If you enjoy reading books about Christianity, you will love this story!  It is a beautiful portrayal of the pitfalls and rewards of religion.  It speaks of the unfortunate circumstance of religion used to shame and disgrace but also of the beautiful circumstance of religion used to love and edify.  This is a well thought out story with a carefully crafted plot.  The reader will learn much about love and redemption from this book.

I highly recommend Twisted Faith!  To all adult audiences!  It is heartfelt and knowledgeable regarding the ways of the wayward souls and of the loving souls which are found in humanity. This book is a tear jerker as it explores the profundities of what really matter in life.  For anyone who enjoys pondering upon the human condition, this book is a must read!

Where you can find Twisted Faith:

http://www.amazon.com/Twisted-Faith-Victoria-Schwimley-ebook/dp/B00MLY8OOW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1457421315&sr=8-1&keywords=twisted+faith+by+victoria+schwimley

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/twisted-faith-victoria-schwimley/1120136192?ean=9781499248463

Where you can find Victoria:

Website:  http://victoriaschwimley.com

Twitter:   @schwimley

Goodreads:  https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4952648.Victoria_Schwimley

Interview with Victoria:

1.  What prompted you to write these books?

I wanted to find a way to reach out to kids to show them the love of God without pushing religion on them. I figured the best way to do this would be to approach some of the topics that affect them and approach it from a manner they might accept. I created Pastor David as a character that loves these kids and cares about them and accepts who they are, complete with their faults—someone who wouldn’t judge them, but understand them.

2.  What is your favorite genre to write and why?

I think that depends on my mood. I love my children’s detective series. The two characters in these stories are my granddaughters, and the antics they get into suit their personalities. I love the faith series because it allows me to connect with kids and show them they don’t have to be perfect to have God’s love.

3.  What is an interesting fact about you you'd like to share?

In addition to writing novels, I also write and produce stage plays. I have a passion for live theater and I’m thrilled to see my stories come to life.

4.  Favorites:  food, color, place, activity?

My favorite food is anything with chocolate in it. My favorite color is blue, more specifically Turquoise. My favorite place is San Francisco, and my favorite activity is writing—next to that it would be walking on the beach.

5.  What are your hobbies?

I love to sew things, which I suppose goes along with my creative gene. I also enjoy camping and taking short hikes.

6.  What inspires you?

I’m inspired by life and the events that happen around me. For example, the inspiration for my book Capturing Faith came because I was surrounded daily by teenagers who seemed to survive on caffeine. I saw the effects this had on their lives. They joked about needing the caffeine to stay awake, but I saw it as a problem and addressed it in the story about a young man who takes massive amounts of caffeine until his body responds by crashing. I wrote this first as a stage play that was performed by the youth of my church. They reported on how much they learned about the dangers of caffeine and the need to take better care of their bodies.

7.  If you could give me one piece of advice about life, what would it be?

I have two mottos I live by. “Life’s too short to sit on the bench, so get in there and pitch the game.” And “Always treat others how I’d want them to treat me.”

~Diamonds Fall by Rebecca M. Gibson~

"She noticed as if in a dream, a single diamond hair comb fall to the floor. The sparkling jewels landed face down in the mud." Annabel Maria Hoddington is the epitome of high society. She has everything money can buy and as befits a lady of her station, is engaged to the richest bachelor in England. However, on the day of her eighteenth birthday - her perfect future on the brink of fulfilment - she is abducted and held hostage in an isolated village, where she finds herself entrapped in the harsh world of poverty. Forced to live amongst three mentally scarred siblings, she must adapt to her new, sinister world...or die.

5.0 out of 5 starsGreat Author Debut!

By Megan on June 21, 2015

Format: Paperback

I really loved this book. Annabel, a high class girl living in the Victorian times, is kidnapped and forced to live a harsh live in poverty by her kidnappers. It was a story that gripped me from the beginning and I couldn't stop reading at times. The beginning of the story sure hits you with a punch and from then on, I just want to read what would happen with Annabel next.

Annabel's character changes from this spoiled, wealthy girl to a woman that is selfless and caring for those in need. I loved her transformation. Instead of a girl only thinking about herself, she cares for the children of the man she is kidnapped by, and they all depend on each other for survival. I enjoyed that despite her challenges with her captors, she could still find it in her heart to love someone. And the rest of the characters really grew on me as well. Billy - the stable boy who watched over the horses - is so caring of others and comforts Annabel right from the beginning. And Patsy was so protective and caring over her brothers.

The story was easy to follow. I found myself reading chapter after chapter, telling myself "just one more chapter" and then it's like two hours later. I don't want to give much of the plot away, but I can say it's intense at times. As for other reviewers not thinking many of the historical references were quite accurate, I couldn't really tell myself. I don't read many historical novels, but I truly enjoyed this one. I will be looking out for more by this author.

Recommended for those that enjoy coming of age novels with historical romance thrown in.

Where you can find Diamonds Fall:

http://www.amazon.com/Diamonds-Fall-Volume-Rebecca-Gibson/dp/0993296300/ref=pd_sim_sbs_14_1?ie=UTF8&dpID=51rbW3SVZnL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR100%2C160_&refRID=1FVGW96FB1TV64DQPC3N

Where you can find Rebecca:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/-/e/B011VLBBJ0

https://www.facebook.com/Rebecca-M-Gibson-797166506986803/timeline/

https://twitter.com/TheRGibson

Interview with Rebecca:

1.  Tell me about your books and why you decided to write them.

Wow...where to begin? I tend to write quite emotive stories, drifting onto the darker side of emotion. I have a psychology degree so I love exploring a character's mind and seeing how they handle various situations. 

My most emotive novel is probably 'Rubies Fall' which is set in the First World War and follows Gray, a rich gentleman with romanticised ideas of adventure, as he is thrown into the horror of the trenches. I'm really proud of that novel and just hope everyone else loves it as much as I do. I am incredibly interested in the First World War so I'm praying it does the experiences of all the men who fought justice. 

My debut novel 'Diamonds Fall', the prequel to 'Rubies Fall', follows Annabel Hoddington. Annabel is a rich and spoilt society lady who gets kidnapped and held hostage in a small village. Without her trusty material objects, she must learn about the simple pleasures of life, like friendship and love, in the hope of eventually finding her way home. I wrote 'Diamonds Fall' when I was out with a friend, walking in the forest by my house. The characters quite literally fell into my head. The rest, as they say, is history.

2.  What are your goals as a writer?

My main goal as a writer would be to touch someone with the words I've written and the characters I've created. I want people to feel something when they read my stories that maybe they didn't feel before. I want people to stay awake thinking 'what if?'. Basically, the reactions I have always had to my favorite authors, I would love for other people to have about my books.

Personally, I would also love to keep evolving, keep improving and eventually end up in a physical bookstore!! I want to write in many different genres and create a variety of different characters to keep everyone on their toes!

3.  Who are your favorite authors and why?

My absolute, all time favorite writer is Wilfred Owen. He is a poet who served as an officer in the First World War. His poetry and the letters he wrote during the war are phenomenal. They are a fantastic portrayal of what the war was really like and how it touched people in so many different ways. His poems are not only beautiful but they spoke the truth in a time full of so much pain. If you haven't heard of him (and why not?) go check him out now! I'm also, obviously, a massive fan of JK Rowling, Harry Potter was the narrative to my entire childhood so that will always be close to my heart. I won't go into all my favorite books right now because this would turn into a novel all by itself but I'll pretty much read anything!! 

4.  Where would you go on your dream vacation and who would you bring with you?

Ohh interesting question. My dream holiday....this is hard seen as though 90% of the items on my bucket list consist of travelling. My best friend lives in Australia so I would love to go there again and see her, which I am saving up for now but it's going to take a while. I would also love to explore the corners of Europe in much more detail - Ypres, Bordeaux, Barcelona, Rome...the list is endless. Although, you can never beat a white sandy beach and a turquoise ocean. I think, in answer to your question, I would go anywhere and everywhere with anyone who'd like to come! 

5.  What would you like your readers to know about you?

That I love them all for reading my books. I love hearing from my readers, talking to them about their favourite chapters or where they think the characters will go. Look me up, send me a message, I don't bite! Speaking to my readers about the way my books made them feel is the reason I do what I do. A writer is nothing without someone to read her words!

6.  If you could give me one piece of advice about life, what would it be?

Never give up on your dreams. It's cliche but it's true. I've had countless people tell me I dream too big. People love to say you can't do something because they're too scared to try themselves. Yes, a spot in a bookstore, a movie deal, a following of devoted fans, they're all far fetched but they have to happen to someone. Why not me? Why not you?

Introducing Artist Ben Kotyuk!

Today I'm thrilled to introduce you to Ben Kotyuk, first place winner of my contest on Fine Art America for most creative inspirational art work!  His piece entitled I Want Some is a beautiful depiction of enlightenment!

Without further adieu, here is Ben's post!

As a child I always had a propensity for drawing and building things. At the age of twelve and with the help of an insightful teacher, I was enrolled in an art school. After two years of exploring various creative disciplines, I focused on package/product design.

Upon graduating, I went to work in a corporate art department. In those days, product design was not considered very important so it was begrudgingly handled as part of the advertising responsibilities. This meant I was also required to design ads and catalogs along with an array of promotional items.

For the next eleven years I moved between large corporations and small design studios where I handled product design projects. Slowly over time, the importance of package/product design became apparent and broke off as a speciality.

At that point, I left the corporation I was working for and opened my own design studio. For the next thirty-five years I did product, package and conceptual design for the cosmetic, fragrance and fashion industries world wide.

When I eventually retired, I needed a long overdue break from drawing and sketching which had been an intricate part of my work process. During the next six years I pursued other creative outlets and did not put pencil to paper.

As my life progressed, I began to feel a strong desire to draw and paint again but this time it would be just for me. I chose to work in pastel because it didn’t seem like a large leap from colored pencils which had previously been my presentation medium of choice (besides, I wasn’t thrilled at the prospect of cleaning brushes.)

In order to develop my pastel technique, I have mostly painted what is around me. All the objects, people and animals that are visually familiar.

I recently had a lot of fun doing graphic design and a few illustrations for a book I wrote last summer. I have never imagined myself as a writer yet for awhile, I was plagued by a recurring dream where a story unfolded.

One day my wife, Kelley said, “Why don’t you just write it down.” Well, I did and it became "Journal 97 The Case Notes Of E.R.Satz."

At the core of this strangely odd and most bizarre story, a theme on how people connect with each other emerges. It illustrates that through trust and dedication, an unexpected group of individuals come together for a common purpose to change their lives for the better. In the end, as fate would have it, everyone receives what is ultimately meant for them. The book presented big challenges and was a new outlet for my creativity.

On a final note, and in regards to my painting, “I Want Some” I would ask you, have you ever experienced a moment that took your breath away then seconds later tried to logically understand what just happened to you? Deep down you know it’s already too late because the more you try to find that feeling the further it slips away. That is how I felt when I saw the sun burst from behind a cloud one day, I literally gasp. I searched for that spot within myself, but the more I tried the further from my emotional reach it became. I wanted it to last, to retain some part of it in my being, but now it’s only a memory. “I Want Some” was an attempt to visually capture that moment in a way that could be shared.

You can find Ben's amazing work on Fine Art America where he has many wonderful pieces to share!  Thank you for being a guest on my blog, Ben!

The February Lowdown!

Hey everyone!  It's hard to believe, but February has come to an end already!  Two months into 2016!  The time is going fast! I'd like to shout out a big thank you to the talented artists and authors who participated in my blog during the month of February! It was great having you all as guests! May the coming months and year find you happy, healthy and prosperous!  Keep in touch! Cheers!

~Spotlight: Perfect World by Shari Sakurai~

It is the year 2115 and the world is very different. With climate changes, natural disasters and war shaping the landscape, England has become a nation made up of several super cities and wasteland in between.

Eric Rawlins is a genetically engineered superhero created by the London Security Agency (L.S.A) to defend and protect the city against both national and international threats. With his superior abilities, celebrity status and beautiful girlfriend, Eric appears to have the perfect life. However, it is an illusion created by the L.S.A in order to control him.

Eric's nemesis is the charismatic Adam Larimore. The only son of billionaire business tycoon Victor Larimore, Adam is gifted with a genius level IQ as well as the same longevity as Eric.

When the actions of the L.S.A throw the two of them together Eric finds himself questioning everything that he has ever known as well as discovering the true course of events that led to Adam turning to a life of crime. As they become closer Eric realises that the L.S.A may be the real threat to London. But can he trust Adam or is he part of Adam’s plan for revenge against those who have wronged him?

Reviews:

5 stars
In the distant future, London is ravaged by the great tsunamis of 2049. This was a disaster on a global scale. War and strife followed, the struggle for resources seemed without end - until the LSA was formed. The LSA (London Security Agency) became the greatest asset in restoring order and peace to the world.

With the world's greatest arsenal of weaponry at their disposal, holographic technology that can recreate the old world at a whim; and genetic engineering able to completely map and control the human genome, the LSA eventually established total control over a weary, splintered population -- or so they thought.

Eric Rawlin, the LSA's best genetically engineered super soldier, is the face of hope against all who would threaten this new-found peace, the pinnacle of their achievements. Eric has never questioned his loyalty. He would give his life for the cause, and as with any cause, there will always be those who would seek to end it.

Adam Larimore is such a man: the greatest terrorist the world has ever faced. He is the perfect weapon, with a burning hatred for the LSA, and the means to destroy them.

As Eric moves to put an end to Adam, he must delve deep into the mind of the enemy, into the secrets of his past, and he must, for the first time, question the organization that created him.

Will Eric find the answers he needs in order to defend London, or will he wish he never started looking to begin with?

Shari Sakuri has created an amazingly detailed world in the distant future. I found myself right at home, in this space opera. She describes the tech with great intricacy, down to the dates of its conception.

Eric Rawlin is an absolute bad ass with an immediately likeable personality. It was a pleasure to see how he evolved from soldier to a man, in control if his own life, in this tale. His supporting cast is fleshed out and realistic down to their postmodern wardrobe.

Adam Larimore provides the perfect counterpoint to the flawless order of the LSA. At first, I considered him an ever-present antagonist, always popping up to taunt Eric and drive him forward. Although certain plot points related to him were a little cliché, as the story progressed, I found Adam to be so much more. And the twist between Adam and Eric came as a complete but welcome surprise to me.

The only complaints I have about this book are its few grammatical errors, and a bit of lag towards the middle of the story.

I know the year is young, but I feel it is going to be tough for any book to beat Perfect World. I immensely enjoyed Shari's writing style and beautiful story. There is even a teaser for another one of her books after the epilogue. I'll probably check it out very soon. If you enjoy, sci fi, martial arts, romance, and technology; be sure to give this book a read. I look forward to her next.
J.B Maynard (http://www.tabbyafae.com)

4 stars
Perfect World caught me completely off guard. I expected an LGBT romance set in a SciFi world. But what I go was a really deep book that focused on many different elements. While Adam and Eric's romance isn't the highlight of the book, it is still sweet and I enjoyed it. I actually like that the author paid more attention to the whole story instead of focusing on the romance.

The pacing was great. There were never moments of lag, and I enjoyed this book all the way until the end. The ending, though. It's a bit of a cliffhanger. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that Adam and Eric's story isn't over yet!
Kristen Noel (http://www.prettylittlepages.blogspot.co.uk/)

Where you can find Perfect World:

http://www.amazon.com/Perfect-World-Shari-Sakurai-ebook/dp/B00LXPO5WA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1456643250&sr=8-1&keywords=perfect+world+shari+sakurai

Where you can find Shari:

Website:  http://www.sharisakurai.com/

Perfect World website:  http://www.perfectworldseries.com/

Twitter:  @ShariSakurai

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

Blog:  https://sharisakurai.wordpress.com/

Interview with Shari:

1.  Please tell me about your book and why you decided to write it.

Perfect World is a science fiction and LGBT novel and is the first book in the series of the same title. The novel takes place in London in 2115. The protagonist, Eric Rawlins, is a genetically engineered superhero and part of the London Security Agency (L.S.A), which is the organisation that created him. The L.S.A has given Eric the perfect life with his superhero abilities, longevity, celebrity status and beautiful girlfriend, but in reality they control him and use his popularity with the public to their advantage. Eric’s nemesis Adam Larimore was also genetically engineered and has a genius level IQ and longevity. As the novel progresses Eric begins to see a darker side of the organisation that he works for and also learns that Adam isn’t quite the villain that he’s made out to be. They become closer throughout the novel but Eric remains unsure of whether he can trust Adam or if he is being used.

Perfect World decided to write itself really. One day out of the blue I had the idea and I just had to start writing it!  

2.  Do you have any works in progress?  What are they?

Yes, I'm currently working on a companion novel to the Perfect World series as well as Book 2 in the series.

3.  Who are some of your favorite authors and why?

My favourite author is James Clemens. I love his style of writing and the worlds that he creates.

4.  Favorites:  food, color, activity, place?

My favourite food is a tie between macaroni cheese and pizza! Apart from writing my favourite activity is going to live music concerts. You just can't beat seeing your favourite artists live! My favourite place is London; there's just so much to see and do there!

5.  What would you like your readers to know about you?

I am a perfectionist when it comes to my work. I have to be completely happy with every word before I can even think of publishing something. As a result I go through many rewrites until I am satisfied that my work is as perfect as I can make it.

6.  If you could give one piece of advice about life, what would it be?
Don't put things off. If you want to do something then do it! It's better to regret doing something than regret not doing something!

~Spotlight: The Leprechaun Delusion by Dr. Leviak B. Kelly and Idav Kelly~

In the years between 2004 and 2006 of our current calendar, a social movement among atheists rose to popularity across the world. At first many atheists around the world, particularly the anti-theists, were overjoyed at the new movement that eventually became known as the New Atheist movement or simply New Atheism.

Then as the years went by, the atheists around the world began to see the growing suppressed and repressed inherent anger in the rally cries of the spokesmen of this movement. Yet the general populace of discontent and disenfranchised middle class males and a smaller amount of people of various descriptions seemed to find their niche in the movement.

The movement became a voice for those that were looking for meaning outside churches, mosques, synagogues and temples. New Atheism resonated with the frustrations and other issues that harboured, both knowingly and unknowingly, within these individuals. Groups on social media of these devoted followers began to hold events and establish various internet media into “their” voice.

This was their chance to change and inform the world. It was their chance to vent their frustrations on religion, especially monotheism. However, they did not critique religion, they lambasted it with the mockery and ridicule that gave rise to other atheists and religious followers to mark their obvious fundamentalism.

Their vision, however, was not just skewed by psychological issues but by a blindness of their own “enlightened” intellect. They failed to see that religion was more than monotheism. They failed to use the very science they claim to rally around to search out the environment they were getting stuck in by manipulation. So centered are they on their pot of gold that they do not realize that they have been hoodwinked into a new religion, by both a sociological standardized cult definition and by self-identification from its founders.

In their desire to right the wrongs and bring a multiplicity of light to bear on religion, they have followed a carefully crafted set of mythic leprechauns, the founders, through a rainbow of logical fallacies and ignorance, to a pot of iron pyrite. They have, like many, been lead into the end of St. Elsewhere, trapped in a snowglobe environment called the Leprechaun Delusion.

Reviews:  

Okay, let's be honest - no one really likes the New Atheists except for the New Atheists. They're rude, abrasive, obnoxious, they get in your face, they write books like "Manual for Creating Atheists". This book says what we're all thinking: New Atheism is just another fundamentalist religion. What the New Atheists generally argue is that they aren't religious because they don't do anything that's really all that harmful, but this book proves that statement wrong: The New Atheists DO do harmful things - like ridicule, which causes violence, or like racism, or sexism, or advocating thousands of people being killed just because they're scary muslims. Some of the things the "Four Horseman" said were so bad that I had to look up the citations to make sure the author wasn't making things up. The saddest part was that the author *was not* making any of this up - Sam Harris really suggested that people of color might be less intelligent, and Christopher Hitchens really did advocated that all of Turkey could be blown to smithereens without shedding a tear; all of them made similar infractions to these and more, Richard Dawkins calls Yahweh infanticidal, and then later says that infanticide of Down Syndrome children is acceptable? And then on top of that, all of them are pushing for communism. You'd think they'd have learned something from the past century.

All in all, great book. It revealed a lot about New Atheism that I didn't know before.

5 star review by James Landon

Where you can find Leprechaun Delusion:

Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/Leprechaun-Delusion-Revealing-Religion-Atheism-ebook/dp/B00Z8QWX1K/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1456521694&sr=8-1&keywords=the+leprechaun+delusion

Barnes and Noble:  http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-leprechaun-delusion-dr-leviak-b-kelly-dd/1122370792?ean=9781512318135

Where you can find Idav:

Goodreads:  https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14188907.Idav_Kelly

Twitter:  http://twitter.com/alixetiir

Website:  http://skeletonscomic.blogspot.com/

Tumblr:  http://alixetiir.tumblr.com/

Where you can find Leviak: 

Goodreads:  https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/35027587-leviak-kelly

Twitter:  http://twitter.com/veritasubique

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/Leviak-B-Kelly-Doctorate-of-Divinity-836941823058244

Interview with Idav:  

1.  What prompted you to write your book?

I saw the problems with the New Atheist movement, and I don't believe that just because I'm not religious that I have to 'side' with them.

2.  What do you hope the publishing of your book to accomplish?

I'm hoping to reduce the number of people who want to ridicule people for their belief systems, especially when those people are falling into their own trap.

3.  What would you like your readers to know about you?

I tend to avoid sticking to one side or the other on partisan issues, which, in a way, is part of the motivation for writing my book. I don't believe anyone is above criticism if they're not telling the truth.

4.  Who are your favorite authors and why?

Well, definitely Carl Sagan. He knew how to be spiritual. I also like a variety of fiction authors, but Edgar Allan Poe is still one of my favorites because his horror stories are so sophisticated. If you check out my Goodreads page, you'll also see a few web cartoonists who I like because they were funny and also inspired me to write my own comic.

5.  If you could meet one celebrity, who would it be and why?

Strangely enough, I'd probably want to meet Megyn Kelly, the reporter, because I think we'd see eye-to-eye on a lot of issues and I like her attitude. When people interview her offstage, she's not the ultra-conservative that she's been painted as.

6.  If you could give me one piece of advice about life, what would it be?

Keep working even when things seem bad. Studies show that perseverance is the most correlated trait with success.

Present Days

As part of my artistic journey, I've created a vast number of quotes about things I've learned to live by or things I've learned from. I'll be including my quotes in the art spectrum of my blog.

This particular quote is entitled Present Days. I wrote it while in an enlightened state of mind. It is a reminder to me to enjoy the present moment because it is quickly gone into the past where it can never be re lived.

As citizens on this planet, it is so easy to get caught up in the physical moments of life. We have a tendency to forget our true nature as we engage in this worldly reality. I have come to learn that it is imperative to remember our nature as we go through our daily situations. Only then can we truly live and enjoy the things we experience in each moment of each day.

It is my hope that this quote will remind all of us to stop and reflect on the brief passage of each minute in life. As the moments culminate, years go by and soon we are asking ourselves where the time went. Enjoy every minute because life is precious and fleeting!

Namaste!

Where you can find Present Days:

Red Bubble:  http://www.redbubble.com/people/diamantelavenda/works/14126321-present-days-become-days-past-by-diamante-lavendar

Fine Art America:  http://fineartamerica.com/featured/present-days-become-days-past-diamante-lavendar.html

Some of the available products:

~Review: Wind Down by Mark Ewig~

Aaron Starks survived a near death experience when he was stabbed by an unknown assailant. All of his college roommates were suspects. However, investigators could turn up nothing to catch the attempted murderer. Fifteen years later, Aaron is all grown up with a family. Things are going great until he starts experiencing strange blackouts and other paranormal visions. During the blackouts he still interacts with others, but he cannot remember anything he said or did. Doctors are unable to provide an answer. It is not until Aaron has an encounter with Ju'van, a local shaman, that he realizes what he needs to do. He is sent on a journey to meet up with all his old roommates to discover the truth on what really happened the night he was stabbed in the back.

My Review:  4 Stars!

Although this book had some editing issues, I absolutely loved the story line and conflicts contained within it!  This is a novel about a man journeying through his unconscious, attempting to find answers to the mysteries that happened in his life.  Unsure as to whether he is really alive or dead, the story follows him as he revisits old friends and tries to gather an ending to his paranormal trial.

This book will keep you guessing!  It will also make you think about your own life and actions. This is a perfect book for those of us who love to examine life and attempt to better ourselves through those self examinations.

To any paranormal buffs out there...give this book a try!  It's hard to put down and a very interesting and introspective story!

Where you can find Wind Down:

Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/Wind-Down-Mark-Ewig-ebook/dp/B00O6P2OUY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1455590434&sr=8-1&keywords=wind+down+mark+ewig

Where you can find Mark:

Goodreads:  http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/9812829.Mark_Ewig?from_search=true&search_version=service

Letter Of Intent #1 by Diamante Lavendar

I am starting another new aspect of my blog! It is called Letters Of Intent. This is the first letter. Others will follow at random. But I suspect there will be quite a few over time!

Letter Of Intent #1:

Life is a poem: a living of pen to paper. The backdrops of our lives are the papers and we are the pens; creating, moving through space to find a meaning to our existence.

Intent is life's purpose. It is up to us whether we allow our intent to be pure or corrupted. In each of us is a possibility of both. What matters is the voice we heed.

Find your intent and you will find your purpose. Accomplish your goals and you will achieve your dreams!

<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/14495473/?claim=qwva73jcxcm">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a>

~Spotlight: Bounty by J.D. Cunegan~

Jill Andersen is one of Baltimore's best and brightest detectives, but she harbors a dark secret -- a secret that threatens to come out when the body of Dr. Trent Roberts is pulled out of the Chesapeake Bay. Dr. Roberts' connection to Jill reveals a past that involves a tour in Iraq, a secretive cybernetic experiment, and a conspiracy that involves a native son.

Can Jill solve the case while still keeping her secret? Will her partners at the Seventh Precinct find out what she's so desperate to hide? What was Dr. Roberts looking into that led to his murder? And perhaps the biggest question of all...

Who is Bounty?

Reviews:

Read this one without a doubt!

By Alexandra on October 8, 2015

Format: Kindle Edition

Can I just say, WOW! The main character here already deserves 10 stars, and she’s everything I love about strong females. She’s smart, funny, kicks ass, and knows what she’s doing. She also has a heart and can be a simple human sometimes, so that we all can relate to her, and she’s stubborn and strong when it comes to her work. She’s what you get if you cross the women sleuths and superhero genres, plus throw in a good deal of author’s imagination and humor. I can tell right away the author must be a very fun person to hang with. The secondary characters strengthen this impression, because all together, they form an impossibly cool team – and you know how much I appreciate it ;) The story has it all – mystery, thriller, suspense, drama, and ACTION, so much epic, well-written action that there’s no place for slow chapters. The pacing is really great, pushing the story forward just when it feels like it’s slowing down. Even though many of the intrigues are resolved early, the suspense is built in an original and mind-gripping way till the very end. The flashbacks to the past make it especially hard to put the book down, and they also help us get to know Jill better and understand her motivations and feelings. I think, whether you’re a fantasy or sci-fi fan or not, if you love action – read this one without a doubt. The author did a really great job introducing the series, and something tells me the next book will be only stronger. *I’d like to thank the author for giving me a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review

5.0 out of 5 starsFull of crime drama and suspense, I loved it!

ByBoundless Book Reviewson July 15, 2015

Format: Kindle Edition

I didn't really know what to expect from this book, but I was very pleased. It was a very good read. It tells the story of a woman who is "modified" due to taking part in a hidden experiment. She is not only a cop, but a hidden vigilante.

This book is written well and is full of crime drama and suspense. I absolutely love Jill and find her strength honorable. She went through a lot when she was young, but never let it stop her. She continued to grow and now she is doing what it takes to help out her city, on the front lines and behind the scenes.

I want to say thank you for allowing me to read and review this book. It is definitely a good book and is one I'd highly recommend....

Where you can find Bounty:

Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/Bounty-Volume-1-J-D-Cunegan/dp/1514140179/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top?ie=UTF8

B&N:  http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/bounty-jd-cunegan/1122055374?ean=9781514140178

Where you can find J.D.:

Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/J.D.-Cunegan/e/B00YNTP4S2/ref=dp_byline_cont_book_1

Goodreads:  http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14050436.J_D_Cunegan?from_search=true&search_version=service

**New From J.D.:  Blood Ties available on Amazon!**

Love

This was a write up in my February newsletter I recently published.  My editor loved it (she is also my friend.)  She encouraged me to put it on my blog, which I have now done.  I hope it helps you to find more peace and meaning in your life.

*****************************************************************************

Love. We've heard so much about it during our lives. "It is more blessed to give than to receive." "Treat others as you would like to be treated." "True love keeps no record of wrongs." These things are all very true but sometimes hard to achieve.

Everyone is tested. We endure fiery trials of one form or another. The trick is to always bring it back to a loving attitude at the end of the day. How is that possible in some instances? Sometimes, only by the power of God Himself is it possible.

I have suffered, as some of you know, through differing forms of abuse. I have felt like I had nothing left to give, like everything had been taken from me. And yet, I was expected to love. If you've read my book Breaking The Silence, you know my story. It has been excruciating...and still is sometimes to this very day. The best advice I can give is do your best in the time given. Ten years ago, my best wasn't as good as it was five years ago. And five years ago, it wasn't as good as it is now. I still have a long way to go, but as long as I'm on my way, I know it will continue to get better day by day.

Don't beat yourself up if you have trouble being loving. Especially at times when you are hurting. Nobody is perfect and nobody can be 100% loving 100% of the time. It's not a human capability. Luckily, God is there to hold your heart in His hands as He molds and makes you into who you really are made to be as you progress through your existence on this planet. Humans are frail and fallible. But we are also very capable of learning. So keep that in the forefront of your mind. Do the best in the day you are given.

And be forgiving. Forgive yourself and others for not consistently living up to difficult standards. Sometimes the best way to show love is to forgive. And to know perfection is not attainable. Once you let go of "should, must, have to" it gets a little easier to be a loving person.

February is a time of hearts and candy and flowers. Those are all wonderful, but it is my experience that the expectations we put on ourselves and others are the most primary causes of either happiness or disappointment. So remember, we're all here to learn and grow. Enjoy it as much as you can without beating yourself up over it at the same time!

Happy February! May every day this month be your Valentine's Day!

~Review of Insane-O-Tron by Nick Alverson~

Insane-O-Tron is a collection of six short stories about unexpected characters in crazy situations, with plenty of action, adventure, Sci-Fi, fantasy, friendship, family and romance.

The title story, Insane-O-Tron, is about two best friends, one a man, the other his haircut, thrown into the middle of a plot to stop humans from ever existing. As they battle a lunatic scientist and his fast food employees, they attempt to travel back in time seventy two million years in order to save their future.

In The Family Family the former golden boy of TV comedy, Scott Scotterson, is tasked with reviving a failing TV show, by turning its family-themed plots, from wholesome and boring, into crude, over-the-top insanity.

Mallard Quackenbush explores the anxiety and paranoia of a father as his only daughter prepares to go on her first date with a duck.

Terry is the story of a small plastic pumpkin and his best friend Billy Skids. It’s a tale of friendship, of bullies and the glory of Halloween.

In The Perfect Day, Ernie the earwig takes a summer’s day trip to the warm, scum infested water of the gutter.

Brave Pony pits an awkward and socially outcast pony named Gooch against the deadliest threat Pony Land has ever known: a fire breathing dragon.

My Rating:  3 Stars!

Insane-O-Tron is an offbeat comedy written by Nick Alverson.   This book speaks of everything from the mundane aspects of life to outrageous situations that could possibly occur only in the wildest of dreams.  Peppered with obscenities, stories about everything from bodily functions to hallucinogenic possibilities are presented in the manuscript.

I did find this book humorous on several occasions:  the ridiculous aspect of the stories was somewhat appealing to me.   However, some of the humor was also quite raunchy which isn't my every day "thing".  Overall, though, I do have to say that the bizarre and unpredictable outcomes gave me a laugh as I do tend to enjoy irony quite a bit!

If you like weird/raunchy/ironic humor you'd enjoy this story!

Where you can find Insane-O-Tron:

Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/Insane-O-Tron-Nick-Alverson-ebook/dp/B0125MRT18/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1455009026&sr=8-1&keywords=insane+o+tron

Barnes and Noble:  http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/insane-o-tron-nick-alverson/1122343491?ean=9780989664301

Where you can find Nick:

Website:  http://www.nickalverson.com/

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

Twitter:  @NickAlverson1

Meet Patsy Gunn! An artist of integrity!

I'm beginning a new spectrum of my blog!  Every now and then I'll be featuring an artist!  It is my belief that creativity in all forms is a gift that needs to be revered and shared.  It is also my belief that we are all endowed with forms of creativity to share with the world.  And I embrace that concept here on my blog!  So this is the first page in my journey of featuring artists and their work!

Today I'm very excited to introduce you to Patsy Gunn! I've known Patsy for a while now. She is part of my art group, Emotive Art, on Fine Art America. She's also a friend of mine on facebook. Patsy is a warm, kind hearted person and also a talented artist of integrity!

Patsy writes:

Hello everyone! I am a visual artist and primarily use drawing as the foundation of my compositions because of its elemental nature. To inspire my greatest creativity I walk, preferably in nature. The act of wandering and drawing depictions of life comes naturally to me and I believe this is because it is part of our human heritage that dates back to the Paleolithic period. Using graphite as my base, additionally I work with pen and ink, charcoal and pastels, gouache and acrylic. Each of these mediums has a distinct quality which allows me to express the various feelings of human existence, such as, spiritualism, enthusiasm, bliss, melancholy, subtleness, and so on. It is the intertwining of these sensations with a subject that speaks to me.

I am often asked how long I have been an artist, and I generally say I was born an artist! This is because, looking back to my earliest memories from my childhood I somehow always knew that art and life were deeply intertwined in a such a way that I could not think of one without the other. I understand this interweave of art and life today as the inherent human flow of creativity into life. In all forms, it is a gift from the Universe that has, and continues, to aid human progression as well as our survival.

My artistic journey began at the age of six when I received my first set of pencils and a sketchbook. At this point in my life, this simple gift made me feel jubilant in the knowing that I could go anywhere I wanted to in my imagination. Although this is a blissful memory for me, my most joyous moment happened many years later when I discovered I could capture pieces of life with images and imbue them with the sensations of life. On my artistic journey today I continue to experiment with techniques that will aid in bringing forth the feelings that are present in life, because for me art is life.

Over time I have been influenced by many visual artists, but my favoritism falls to the Great Masters of the Early and High Renaissance period, such as, Brunelleschi, Ghiberti, Donatello, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci. This is because this era of artists through the use of various mediums, styles, and symbolism interwove pieces of life, sensations, and secrets, into each composition, and this for me is humbling. Additionally, I favor some of the twentieth century artists, such as, Van Gogh, Rodin, Picasso, and Matisse. My painting Gravity, which I share with you today, was inspired by Henri Matisse’s painting, The Dance II. In Matisse’s painting, I observed how his use of color and fluid movement brought forth significant sensations that illustrate the processes of the human body as one interweaves with diverse currents of life impulses. Likewise, in my rendering of Gravity my use of color and movement demonstrates the interconnectivity of all living things being embraced by the dynamic rhythms of Earth and the heavenly atmosphere. If you are interested in learning more about this, Glen A. Mazis, in his book earthbodies, captures the profound meaning of Matisse’s painting as he discusses the unified interconnection of humans with the dynamic rhythms of the earth and the cosmos.

To all artists, whether poet, musician, writer, or visual artist, I believe we are all spirits having a human experience, and that being gifted with an artistic talent brings to each of us a responsibility. The responsibility lays in the fact that our creative endeavors may have a strong influence on humanity. So as we make art, I feel we must use our gifts in a way that is respectful to our interconnection to all others, the Earth and all its inhabitants. In my opinion, doing this is, and has always been, the artist’s way to contribute to the blissful preservation of humanity.

Where you can find Patsy:

Fine Art America:  http://fineartamerica.com/artists/patsy+gunn

Website:  http://www.arttatouille.com/

My drawing entitled Shadows

This is an older piece I created many years ago when I was having trouble with flashbacks stemming from my abuse. One day I sat down and began to create this piece as I was suffering.

It's meaning: Memories are like shadows in our minds. The good memories remind us. The bad memories haunt us. Our lives are filled with many different memories. They shape who we are. How we allow them to affect us is our own decision.

I wrote a book about my life entitled Breaking The Silence. It is a story of my torment and agony but also a story of my hope and healing. Sexual and psychological abuse is extremely difficult to deal with. The emotions that it creates threaten to destroy the victim's life. Breaking The Silence is my story about how I went from victim to over comer. It is my hope that everyone who has suffered as I have will find the courage to recover after reading my story.

Shadows is my physical depiction of a small piece of that torment and hidden hope.  If you know someone who has suffered from abuse, show them this piece.  They will probably be able to identify deeply with it.

Where you can find Shadows:

http://www.redbubble.com/people/diamantelavenda/works/14126123-shadows-by-diamante-lavendar?grid_pos=1&p=sticker

http://fineartamerica.com/featured/shadows-diamante-lavendar.html

Products made with Shadows:

The January Lowdown!

Hello everyone! Today I'd like to take a moment to thank all the wonderful authors who participated in my blog during the month of January!  It was a very busy and prosperous month!

I am grateful to all of you for bringing interest and diversity to my blog!  It was great working with you and even better getting to know you!  I hope this post finds you happy and well!

If you're reading this post and would like to know more about the featured artists or the art work I pictured above, just go to "reviews/promos" under the blog tab to look up the authors or go to "art" under the art site tab to locate what you're interested in!

~Spotlight: Miscalculated Risks by Maria Riegger~

What would you do if you met someone who defied all of your stereotypes?

Outspoken and abrasive, law student Isabel enjoys arguing with just about everyone, including her friends. It's 2010, and her strained relationship with her mother, less-than-stellar job prospects and frustrations with the conformist political culture of Washington, DC have left her resentful and unfulfilled. Only her sisters and a few good friends are able to keep her semi-grounded. When she meets a new fellow student who dares to challenge her, she is intrigued but skeptical. While Isabel is risk-averse where her feelings are concerned, she is also becoming increasingly curious. She's afraid to get close, because being vulnerable always lead to being hurt, doesn't it?

Where you can find Miscalculated Risks:

http://www.amazon.com/Miscalculated-Risks-School-Heretic-Book-ebook/dp/B014N9SJLU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1453879152&sr=8-1&keywords=miscalculated+risks

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/miscalculated-risks-maria-riegger/1122823090?ean=2940151015813

Where you can find Maria:

Author website/blog: www.lawschoolheretic.com

Twitter: @RieggerM

FB: www.facebook.com/lawschoolheretic

Google+ Maria Riegger

Interview with Maria:

1. What prompted you to write your book?

The storyline came to me all at once. I had some ideas for scenes, and then everything coalesced one day. I wanted to write a book with Washington, DC, my hometown, as a setting, and also wanted to write about what it was like to go to law school there as a young professional.

I also wanted to experiment with characters who didn't act the way people expect. The main character, Isabel, doesn't always act as you would expect a woman to act; however, there are reasons for that. Isabel also applies her own stereotypes to people, which end up turning out to be untrue. This novel was a lot of fun to write.

2. What is your favorite genre-to read and write?

I love to read thrillers. When I was younger, I read a ton of Agatha Christie. Ken Follett is my favorite author. Eye of the Needle is a classic spy novel, and Pillars of the Earth is an epic. Follett writes a fast-paced thriller, but also has the ability to write in different genres. His novels always include strong female leads. I also enjoy reading Neil Gaiman; he is a great storyteller. His novel American Gods is incredible.

 

I enjoy writing women's fiction with a brash, independent edge. I really enjoy getting into the characters’ heads. I prefer characters who have a mix of positive and negative traits, who have some redeeming qualities but also (sometimes major) flaws. I also enjoy writing witty, sarcastic exchanges between characters.

3. Do you have any works in progress? If so, what are they?

I'm working on Acceptable Misconduct, the sequel to Miscalculated Risks; and I'm working on a political fiction novel. You can't get away from politics in the Washington, DC area.

4. What do you hope to accomplish as an author?

I write because I have something to say. If my books make people think about things, then I consider my job done. Writing is also cathartic for me, since I draw on some of my own experiences and feelings.

5. What are your favorites-food, color, place, activity?

Hmmm, it's difficult to narrow it down. Coming from an Argentine family, I love pasta. My favorite color is deep red. My favorite place depends on my mood, but right now that would be Toledo, Spain, a medieval walled city that is packed with tourists during the day but silent at night (perfect for writing in solitude!). My favorite activity is spending time with my young son. As the child of an attorney, he is always giving me a piece of his mind.

6. What would you like your readers to know about you?

I work full-time, write, volunteer and take care of my family. People ask me how I have the time. I make time for the things that matter to me. If you want something badly enough, you will find a way to do it.

7. If you could give one piece of advice about life, what would it be?

Do your own thing, and don't let other people's words of discouragement affect you. You are the master of your own destiny.

Serenity by Diamante Lavendar

 

Today I'm posting one of my older pieces. It is entitled Serenity. I drew this abstract piece with colored pencils.

I titled this piece Serenity because I drew it from a place of serenity. Serenity is a special place within our hearts where anything is possible. It is the site of origin...the center of our being. Serenity is a space within us that connects with Divine presence; a place where we truly know exactly who and what we are.

We all crave serenity. It is actually a need created in us to commune with Divinity. When we don't have serenity, we feel the emptiness and the loss in our lives. To fill that empty space is what we yearn and search for. However, all we really need to do is connect with the love within! Then Divinity begins to fill the emptiness with the beautiful energy of love, compassion and peace! Thus serenity blooms and grows along with a sense of purpose and fulfillment!

Products made with my drawing Serenity:

Where you can find my drawing Serenity on hundreds of fun products:

http://www.redbubble.com/people/diamantelavenda/works/15389424-serenity-by-diamante-lavendar?grid_pos=3&p=sticker

http://fineartamerica.com/featured/serenity-diamante-lavendar.html