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Saturday, 5 July 2008
A Visit With Lanaia Lee
Topic: Author Interview
 1.   What three words best describe you?

Three words: stubborn, determined, and head strong

2.    Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing.

Ancient history, especially Mayan and Egyptian mythology

3.    Do you have any pets?  If so, introduce us to them.

Oh yes, I have a three month old cocker spaniel, named D. J., named for my husband, David. D. J. stands for David Junior. I recently had a seven year old Jack Russell Terrier named Jack, by my Japanese step-mother, Jack was diabetic and died May 19th, so my husband got me D. J. for my anniversary.

4.     What is your most precious memory?

The most precious memory I have is from 1964, when my mom took me to the World's Fair in New York City. This is a very precious memory because in 1965 she died, and I was only eight.

5.   What is your most embarrassing memory?

When I was five, my grandmother took me to the grocery store, she yelled " Fire", them ran leaving me in the grocery aisle, all by myself, when everyone came running and all they saw was me. My grandmother was in the adjacent aisle laughing.

6.   If you weren't a writer, what would you be doing with your life?

All I want to be is happy; what ever would make me happy
 

7.  Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a "real" writer?

I have been writing for about 5 years now, about four years ago, I woke up and the only thing on my mind was writing, that was all I could think about, so that's when I knew, I was destined to be a writer.

8.   What is going on with your writing these days?

I am working on the final book of my fantasy series Of Atlantis, then I have 4 more novels planned with my publisher, A, G. Press, as well as a poetry book ever so often. I signed a life time contract with them

9.  What are your future goals for your writing?

I want to see Of Atlantis go to the big screen. Almost every one knows Atlantis, but my books are unique, as the story idea, has never been done before.

10.   Can you describe a typical writing day for you?

I do my best writing when David and D. J. are asleep. I get up before they do, then I can write before they get up. I write a poem a day, so I don't become bogged down. I try to write a passage in my series each day; right now I'm a year ahead of myself.

11.   Why do you write?

I write mainly because it is a passion, also having no children, I always wanted to leave a part of myself behind, I couldn't do it through my children, but I can through my writing.

12.     What writer most inspires you?  Why?

Edgar Allan Poe, he was a genius.  He also wrote short stories, poetry and novels, just like me. Poe and I had a lot in common the way the coarse of our lives ran.

13.   How do you define your writing?

I don't want to sound conceited but some once told me I was the product of what you get when you mix Robert Browning with Edgar Allan Poe. That was the best compliment, I ever had.

14.  In one sentence-what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

I want to be synonymous with Of Atlantis, like George Lucas is with Star Wars or Gene Roddenbury is with Star Trek

15.  Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website?  Blog?

http://lanaiaslair.com/   (sign my guest book)

http://lanaialee.wordpress.com/

www.myspace.com/lanaialee

16.   Is there a place where readers can reach you?

I am pretty much always on line writing, promoting, etc.  e-mail me at lanaia74@yahoo.com

17.  Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

Out now one book of poetry Within the Garden of Lanaia's Darkness and Of Atlantis volume one

18.  For new readers-what can they expect when they read your book(s)?

My books contain a little of something for everyone. My poetry, even though dark, is not blood and gore, I don't consider that a art. My poetry is like the horror movies of the 30's and 40.s, just plain scary. Now Of Atlantis is my baby, it's a lot of my own personal opinions in this series. They will take you on a ride, escaping from this terror filled world, if only for a short time.

19. Take as much space as necessary to speak to our readers-what would you like them to know about you and your writing?

I would like everyone to know, I am just a person like everyone else, even though I travel on wheels instead of legs. I am a very strong woman that has survived a lot. Give my writing a chance, read it and just like everyone that reads it, they say they are hooked. I hope my books, and the story of my life, there will be something for everyone. And thank you for taking the time to talk with me. I hope I gave you some in sight into Lanaia Lee and Of Atlantis.


Posted by joyceanthony at 3:10 AM EDT
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Friday, 4 July 2008
Apology
Topic: Miscellaneous

I would like to extend an apology to all my readers.  I have had major computer problems the past two days and this has delayed sweveral important things.  I will be posting the remainder of Ms. Lee's blog tour and announcing the winners of both the book drawing and writing contest on Friday--after I get a few hours sleep.  It has been a VERY long two days and I thank you for your patience.

                            Joyce


Posted by joyceanthony at 4:51 AM EDT
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Wednesday, 2 July 2008
A Visit With Lanaia Lee
Topic: Blog Tours

Of Atlantis

The First in a Five-Book Fantasy Series

Synopsis of Book One

Of Atlantis is an epic, fantasy novel based on the king of Atlantis known as Archimedes. For some strange reason Archimedes is blessed with a source of untapped power. His mother, Cheris, knows the truth, but his father, King Linus does not, making him very fearful of the young prince, his only son. In this first book, we follow Archimedes from his childhood, until he is crowned king, marries and has children of his own.

His mother, Cheris, endures a loveless marriage out of a sense of duty to her subjects and to her only son, Archimedes, who she values more than life itself. The continent of Atlantis is comprised of multiple countries with five other kings. Political turmoil is rampant and war is always a threat to mankind. Before that devastating day when the ocean swallowed the entire continent, they share the joy and strife of life in Atlantis. However, one trusted advisor to the king proves to be a formidable archenemy. He knows and covets the awesome powers of Archimedes - his name is Uric.

After the devastation, which Uric and Archimedes survive because of the special powers they both possess, including their gift of eternal life, Uric pursues Archimedes throughout history attempting to steal his power, growing progressively stronger with time.

But Archimedes was proud, he was regal, he was Of Atlantis.

***

Lanaia Lee is a 46-year-old who suffered and survived a stroke at age 35 due to high blood pressure. Her disease is called erratic hypertension. Ever since the stroke, Lanaia has been in a wheelchair, but she hasn't let that stop her one bit! In Lanaia's own words, "I still rock and roll, and I mean literally roll!"

Lanaia has also lost six children due to her problem with blood pressure, leaving her with no living children, except for her four-legged friend. He is her baby and constant companion. She has been married to a wonderful husband for fourteen years, who is also in a wheelchair, but they live totally independently. Although according to Lanaia, "This factor does make life interesting! But we face each challenge with the help of God."

Her grandmother, a self-professed black witch, raised Lanaia after her mother died when she was eight years old. Why does Lanaia write such dark poetry? In Lanaia's words, "I guess being raised with the occult and supernatural explains why I have such a knack for dark poetry. Writing is one of the few things I can do that relaxes me. I will probably write for as long as I live because this is something that I really love to do. God gave me this literary gift, so why not use it?"


Posted by joyceanthony at 12:18 AM EDT
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Saturday, 28 June 2008
Death Masks by Kim Richards --A Review
Topic: Book Review

Death Masks by author Kim Richards, is a thriller that captures your attention and keeps you in suspense to the end.

Someone or something is attacking and killing young men in the park.  Bill, your average computer tech decides to play amateur investigator and figure out the mystery.  In the meantime, the local police think he has something to do with the disappearances.  Can Bill find out who or what is killing people and burying them alive before he becomes the next victim? 

I found Ms. Richard's writing concise and to the point.  She wastes no words, each one leading the story further and deepening both the suspense and intrigue.

If you are looking for a book full of gory details that keep you awake at night, this isn't it.  What it is, however, is  a tale of intrigue and suspense that will keep you wondering until the very end with its false leads and almost paranormal feel.  One clue--the one committing the murders is very much alive and waiting in the bushes.


Posted by joyceanthony at 1:42 PM EDT
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Friday, 27 June 2008
Death Mask--An Excerpt
Topic: Blog Tours

I'm going to modify my plans a little here, folks.  Today, I will be giving you a brief excerpt from Death Mask by Kim Richards.  In addition, there is a brief author interview.  Tomorrow I will be doing the book review.  Enjoy!!

Excerpt:

"Shhh. Please listen." Her words dropped to a trembling whisper.

"What's wrong?"

"I'm scared."

Bill hesitated a moment, thinking she might go on.

"Bill?" She sounded so small and vulnerable. He immediately wanted to reach out through the phone and pull her close. He longed to make whatever it was better.

"I'm here, Hon. What's going on?" He shut down his computer as he talked.

"Someone keeps calling me." Once she started speaking, her words came fast and clipped. "At first he kept hanging up. No heavy breathing or anything so I decided it must be those kids next door."

"He? How do you know it's a guy?" Bill used one hand to hold the phone and the other to begin stuffing his things into his carry bag.

"Because..." Dampened, low sounds came over the phone.

Oh God, she's crying.

"Because I know what a man's voice sounds like. This last time, just a minute ago, he said I'm next."

"Next for what?" As Bill said the words, he'd already guessed the answer. All the clues were in place, the footprints on the porch, the maniac figuring out Bill knew about him, and now the calls to Dix. He didn't hear her answer.

*****

What is a death mask? 

Throughout the ages, man often made masks of the deceased faces. It is a way of honoring the dead and, before photographs became available, to preserve the visage of the deceased person for the living to view. There are many in museums around the world including some famous people such as  Agamemnon, Cromwell, Edison, Newton and Volaire. During my recent trip to Germany I discovered several in museums including the last Teutonic Knight Hochmeister, Archduke Eugen, and two rulers:  Frederic II and Frederic Wilhelm IV.          .

 

I made a plaster cast of my own face to use for promoting Death Masks and the detail of the features surprised me.  The death masks I had the opportunity to see also had great detail. FYI:  the one I did of myself is technically called a Life Mask since I am still living.

What does a death mask have to do with the book?

One thing many serial murderers have in common is collecting something from their victims. In this story the killer makes a death mask of each victim. It’s also intended to be a play on the words since there is something unexpected about the murderer revealed at the very end so the fact that the identity remained hidden is a kind of mask.

Why did you decide to write this book?  What inspired you?

I wrote the first draft while living in Ohio, across the street from a metro park. Having come from the wide open spaces of New Mexico, the dense trees of Ohio and steep areas struck me as places to dump a body. Often in the news, people were found days after driving off into one of these areas.  I did talk with the park rangers near me and found out they try to keep any assaults or other problems occurring in the parks under wraps so that people will feel safe in coming there.

Why a story about a serial killer? Aren’t those overdone (SPOILER ANSWER)?

I decided early on I wanted my protagonist to be someone different than those you find in a lot of thrillers. Bill is an IT computer support tech instead of a detective or someone with law enforcement experience. His curiosity keeps him on the trail but his lack of experience causes him to make mistakes.

 

The murderer is female. Her sex isn’t revealed until the last chapter. In the opening scene it is left unclear she is even human.

Why a female murderer? (SPOILER QUESTION)

Women serial murderers tend to be better at killing than their male counterparts. They go for longer periods of time before being caught, with higher body counts for several reasons:  they seldom talk about their crimes to anyone, they tend to take choose less violent ways of death, and  for women—many of their killings are viewed as mercy deaths and therefore more acceptable to society. For example:  the woman whose elderly relatives die in her care. The rest of her family may not realize she poisoned them, thinking they passed on of old age. I find that concept extremely chilling.

 

Why did you decide to publish Death Masks with an e-book publisher (Eternal Press)?

I find every path to publishing valid in one form or another. My first book came out as under a print on demand format because I had the opportunity to do it free. I do editing for Eternal Press and so took the opportunity when offered to me to try my hand at an ebook. It may not be the best choice for every book but I believe a good one for this story.  I prefer to form my own opinions about such things with a little of my own experience.

 

Tell us about the trailer?

 

My fiance, William Gilchrist filmed it for me using ideas we brainstormed together. The music is from a death metal band from my hometown of Roswell, New Mexico. I wanted a rougher sound since this is not a happy, fluffy story.  The neat thing is the band, Children of a Lesser God, and I are working together to promote ourselves. It’s opened up some interesting opportunities. They will be taking touring all summer and Death Masks goes with them.

What else have you published recently?

August of 2007 saw a book called The Complete Guide to Writing Science Fiction released from Dragon Moon Press. I wrote the chapters on world building and sub-genres. Presently I am writing a chapter for the same editors on Celtic Magic for a book on writing fantasy magic expected for fall 2008 release.

 

April 2008 Death Masks came out, and towards the end of the month, an anthology of dragon stories titled, Firestorm of Dragons.  Firestorm is from DragonMoon Press. I have a story in this one about what dragons really do with all those maidens who get sacrificed to them.

 

Then in the fall of 2008, I have an entry in a Twisted Twins horror themed desk calendar. Yep. I got the January 1 spot!! It’s the New Year’s Resolutions of a serial killer (intended to be funny).

What are you working on now?

I have a horror novel tentatively titled, Holy Blessed Homicide, which I am revising. It is also out in submission.

 

I am also in the first rewrites of a story about the Amazon warrior women from the region of Turkey. It was my 2007 nanowrimo project but I have two more in the series planned. The first of which is brainstormed and the first few chapters written.

 


Posted by joyceanthony at 3:01 AM EDT
Updated: Friday, 27 June 2008 3:04 AM EDT
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Thursday, 26 June 2008
A Visit With Kim Richards
Topic: Blog Tours

Book Title: Death Masks

Genre: Thriller ISBN#: 978-0-9804739-4-0

Bill Cristo takes up walking a per his doctor’s orders to lose weight and improve his health.  While at the metro park, he witnesses an assault.  The assailant turns on him and he wakes in the hospital with a nasty bump on his head, wondering why he isn’t dead. 
 The news reports nothing on any attack in the metro park but Bill can’t let it go...not when he realizes there are other young men missing from the same area. He digs up what he can on his own, drawing further attention from the murderer. Will he be able to figure out who the killer is before it reaches his live-in girlfriend?

 

***

Kim Richards lives in Northern California; with wedding plans for May 2009.  She writes horror, fantasy, erotica and science fiction, as well as non-fiction chapters and articles. She has seen one children’s story published and Death Masks is her first thriller.  For more information on all of her published works, check out her website at www.kim-richards.com 

Kim is an avid costumer and amateur bellydancer. She loves her coffee. She works as an editor for MyShelf Reviews and for Eternal Press as an author, editor and marketing manager. You can find her at Facebook, MySpace, Livejournal and Goodreads under the user name Kim_Richards

 

***

Come back tomorrow for an excerpt, link to Kim's book trailer and my review!!!


Posted by joyceanthony at 1:09 PM EDT
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Wednesday, 25 June 2008
Valentine by Jamieson Wolf--A Review
Topic: Book Review

Valentine, the latest release from author Jamieson Wolf is everything a love story should be.  It contains passion, betrayal, passion, heartbreak, renewal of trust and did I say passion--along with a happy ending of lasting love. 

As a m/m erotic tale, Valentine isn't for everyone; but Jamieson Wolf writes with some of the strongest emotion I have found in ages.  His passion is reminiscent of that seen in the works of Shakespeare and others of that time period.  His characters love deeply and without restraint, overcoming every obstacle placed before them. This is truly a tale for all those who believe love has no boundaries.

 


Posted by joyceanthony at 3:16 AM EDT
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Tuesday, 24 June 2008
A Word From Jamieson Wolf
Topic: Blog Tours
According to legend, as early as the fourth century B.C., the Romans engaged in an annual young man's rite to passage to the god Lupercus. The names of the teenage women were placed in a box and drawn at random by adolescent men; thus, a man was assigned a woman companion for the duration of the year, after which another lottery was staged.

After eight hundred years of this, the early church fathers sought to end this practice and promote monogamy. They found an answer in Valentine, a bishop who had been martyred some two hundred years earlier. According to church tradition, St. Valentine was a priest near Rome in about the year 270 A.D. At that time, the Roman Emperor, Claudius II, had issued an edict forbidding marriage. This was around when the heyday of Roman Empire had almost come to an end.

When Claudius became the emperor, he discerned that married men were more emotionally attached to their families, and thus, would not make good soldiers. So to assure quality soldiers, he banned marriage.

Valentine, a bishop who witnessed the trauma of young lovers, met them in a secret place and joined them in the sacrament of matrimony. Claudius learned of this "friend of lovers," and had him arrested. The emperor, impressed with the young priest's dignity and conviction, attempted to convert him to the Roman gods, to save him from certain execution. Valentine refused to recognize Roman gods and even attempted to convert the emperor, knowing the consequences fully.

On February 24, 270, Valentine was executed.

While Valentine was in prison awaiting his fate, he came in contact with his jailor, Asterius. The jailor had a blind daughter. Asterius requested him to heal his daughter. Through his faith, he miraculously restored girl's sight. Just before his execution, he asked for a pen and paper from his jailor, and signed a farewell message to her, "From Your Valentine." A phrase that lived ever after.

Valentine is loosely based on this legend. I have taken certain liberties with the characters of Valentine and Asterius. Though there are no historical records, there is nothing to indicate that the two men did not meet before Valentine's imprisonment; that there was not a spark of something more between the two.

And that is where the story begins..

****

If you would like to read an excerpt from Valentine, please visit here:

http://www.cobblestone-press.com/catalog/excerpt/valentinejw.htm


Posted by joyceanthony at 3:26 AM EDT
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Monday, 23 June 2008
Getting to Know Jamieson Wolf
Topic: Author Interview
Jamieson Wolf the person

1.  What three words do you think describe you as a human being?

Kind, Optimistic, Eccentric

2.  How do you think others would describe you?

Someone with a good sense of humor and a happy outlook on life.

3.  Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing.

That would have to be reading. I love books, LOVE them. I think books are probably the closest thing I have to an addiction. LOL

4.  Do you have any pets?  If so, introduce us to them.
 

I have an eleven year old cat named Mave. She's a tortishell calico and she thinks she's people.

5.  What is your most precious memory?

The first time I met my husband and realized that true love did indeed exist.

6.  What is your most embarrassing memory?

Having someone put two wasps in my hair in front of the entire class and me not knowing. I put my hands into my hair to scratch (something felt weird there) and the two wasps stung me. I started screaming (of course) and the entire class laughed. Not fun but kind of funny looking back on it.

7.  If you weren't a writer, what would you be doing with your life?

Hopefully I'd be an actor; it's what I wanted to be before writing took over my life. A boy can dream can't he? 
 

8.      In two paragraphs or less write your obituary.

New York Times Best Selling author Jamieson Wolf passed away last night due to natural causes at the age of one hundred and two. Having won the Nobel Prize for literature, the loss of such a writer will be felt the world over.

Jamieson was well known in literature circles, having had three of his books chosen for Oprah's Book Club. He was also a devoted humanitarian having created schools for the less fortunate to help them with their writing.

He is survived by his husband and his small pug dog Bongo. He will be sorely missed.

Jamieson Wolf the writer:

9.  Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a "real" writer?

I was eighteen. I had just written my first short story. One of my friends read it and called me the new Charles de Lint. I realized that writing could be more than a hobby. It could be my career. I haven't looked back since!

10.  What is going on with your writing these days?

Well I've been working hard on a few romance novels. Valentine was published in February. My contemporary romance, Finding Beauty, will be published later this year. I'm working on finishing up a Halloween themed paranormal romance and then I have to get to work on the sequel to Valentine, Valentine's Promise. Always so much going on and not enough time to do it in.

11.  What are your future goals for your writing?

I'd love to write a longer length work and have an idea for it. I'd love to have a book published in hard cover. I'd love to have a book available in a bookstore. I would love to write full time. Really, I just want to make sure I keep writing.

12.  Can you describe a typical writing day for you?

Well, I work during the day from 8-4pm, so I usually write when I get home for a couple hours and then write quite a bit on the weekends. I write whenever I can. I'd love to write full time and have an actual routine for my writing, but that will come.

13.  Why do you write?

Because I have to. If I didn't write, I am pretty sure that I would go more crazy than I already am. LOL

14.  What writer most inspires you?  Why?

Everything inspires me. Conversation, music, people. Inspiration is all around us if we're willing to take a look. And why? Well, why not? Life is an inspiration so if I'm living it, I might as well take something from it.

15.  How do you define your writing?

As paranormal or speculative fiction with a bit of spice.

16.  In one sentence-what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

Jamieson Wolf's writing touched the emotions, made me laugh, cry and want more.

Jamieson Wolf  the details:

17.  Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website?  Blog?

Sure I can!

You can find my web site at http://www.jamiesonwolf.com/

And you can find my blog at http://www.jamiesonwolf.blogspot.com/

You can also sign up for my mailing list here: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Jamieson_Wolf/

18.  Is there a place where readers can reach you?

Yep! You can find my email address at my web site. I always love hearing from readers so don't be shy!

19.  Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

Sure I can! All of the following books are available at http://www.amazon.com/ 

The Ghost Mirror

Light in the City of Shadows

A Quiet Storm

Hunted

Hope Falls

Eagle Valley

Dragons Cove

Letting the Mind Wander

Valentine and the forthcoming Finding Beauty can be found at Cobblestone Press here: http://www.cobblestonepress.com/ or here: http://www.cobblestone-press.com/catalog/author/jamiesonwolf.htm

20.  For new readers-what can they expect when they read your book(s)?

You can expect well developed characters, a thrilling plot and a touch magic or the paranormal. Combine that all with a happy ending and you're all set!

In conclusion:

21.  Take as much space as necessary to speak to our readers-what would you like them to know about you and your writing?

I'm a down to earth person who needs to write. It is the air I breathe and the food for my soul. I write not because I want to but because I have to.

My writing is my imagination having fun on the page. When you read one of my books, you're in for a good time that will hopefully touch your emotions and leave you wanting more.

 


Posted by joyceanthony at 12:01 AM EDT
Updated: Monday, 23 June 2008 1:17 AM EDT
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Sunday, 22 June 2008
A Visit With Jamison Wolf
Topic: Blog Tours

Over the next couple of days, we will be visiting with Jamieson Wolf, author of Valentine, among many other works.  These few days will focus on Valentine.  Sit back and enjoy!

Jamieson has been writing since a young age when he realized he could be writing instead of paying attention in school. Since then, he has created many worlds in which to live his fantasies and live out his dreams.

He is the author of several novels which include: Valentine, Hunted, Hope Falls, Eagle Valley, Dragons Cove and the forthcoming Finding Beauty.

He currently lives in Ottawa Ontario Canada with his husband Robert and his cat, Mave, who thinks she's people.

*****

ISBN: 978-1-60088-220-3
Valentine is the story of Valentine, a sorcerer in the heyday of the Roman Empire. Though Claudius has made a decree forbidding marriage, Valentine weds people in honor of the God Lespercus.

He knows that his magic, his work, comes from a higher power than the Roman Emperor. When he is visited by Asterius, the chief of the Roman Guard, Valentine falls in love with him. But how can he love someone who is supposed to be an enemy?

Valentine will have to free his heart and face death in order to become the man of legend…

Posted by joyceanthony at 4:02 AM EDT
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