Renee's Author Spotlight

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Centurion has it all. A talented charge, ladies at his disposal for a single encounter or more and access to all the coffee he wants once he lands on Earth. Plus, he’s second in command of the volunteer band of angels called the Guardian League. The one thing he never wanted was an intimate relationship with a human beyond the usual angel-charge boundaries.

So when he finds a woman as strong and hot as the human beverage that tickles his fancy, what else can he do but pursue her until he figures out what to do with her.

April loves her enticing, hunky angel but he’s a lot to handle. He’s cocky, unpredictable but most of all… incorrigible. What is she to do with a male who lives life by his own schedule?

Can April and Centurion form a compromise and allow love to bind them together? Or will Centurion’s inability to commit wedge them apart, forever?

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Keep reading for an excerpt:

She turned to the strange male. “I’m sorry, uh–¬uh…”

“Centurion,” he said, holding some earrings up toward the overhead light.

“I’m not sure when I’ll be done.”

“Don’t worry. I’ll wait.”

He was tenacious, she’d give him that. There was some reason he kept hanging around but it wasn’t to buy jewelry and she wasn’t interested in dating. She hadn’t found the right man yet and she doubted this Greek god, this Thor among men was the one. He was probably “full of himself” expecting all women to cater to his needs because he was good-looking and desirable, just like her ex. He was in for a rude awakening.

She was finally able to break away. “Listen, mister.” She walked up and called out to him at the same time.

“Centurion.”

“Are you really interested in jewelry or are you interested in something else?” She placed her hands on her hips. He was laughing. How rude.
“I really like this one.” Centurion pointed to the first necklace he looked at. It was part of a set.

“What do you like about it?”

“The name of it is intriguing. Serenity, an Angel’s present. Tell me, do you believe in Angels?” Centurion leaned over the table.

What a strange question to ask and a personal one. She kept quite a few things private. Delving into her spirituality and her beliefs were not something she was comfortable with. Talking about them was only something she did with a select few individuals she trusted. Then again, she’d never see this man after today. It was probably safe to answer his question.

“Well, sir.”

“Centurion, please.”

“I’m sorry, Centurion. What a different name. I’ve never heard it before. I’m sure it’s hard for you to find anything with your name printed on it, huh?” She chuckled. “But, I’ve gone off the subject and you asked me about Angels. That’s not something I usually talk about out in the open but yes—yes I do believe in Angels. Do you?”

There was that stellar, one of a kind grin again. “I kind of have to.”

She extended her hand out to Centurion. “By the way, I’m April. Take one of my cards.”

“It’s very nice to meet you, April.” He pushed the card into a side pocket. He pointed across her table. “So, why jewelry?”

“It’s creative, it’s fun and I really like making beautiful things.”

“Like yourself?”

“Oh.” She shied away. “You think I’m pretty?”

“Very.”

There went her heart again but this time, it rolled instead of flip-flopped. She took a few deep breaths. “That’s kind of you but—”

“It’s the truth.”

“Wow, you’re very direct.”

“I’m honest. I’m sorry if I’m scaring you. I don’t mean to do that. I just wanted to ask you out for coffee.”

She squirmed and fiddled with her fingers. Coffee? Was he kidding? Holy cow, this guy liked her? She pinched herself, sure that she was dreaming. She wasn’t.

Tuesday, 25 April 2017

What Human Remains by S. M. Sevón

S. M. Sevón is a technical writer and translator who for the past few years has been a working-at-home-mom of two, living with her part Danish family in the heart of Finland. Her career as a writer of fiction already spans two decades, but "They Wait in the Woods" is her first official publication. The story of the book is continued in her second novel, "What Human Remains".

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About the Book

Man is the cruelest animal.

Bonnie Parker has been through living hell. Having lost her friends and the life she knew to the horrors of the River Valley Dam, she is trying to come to terms with what she has become.

But the past is already back to haunt her.

Chased by shadows that seem to follow her every move she finds herself a prisoner of those who claim to help her. Trapped in a nightmare of ruthless experiments, she soon discovers that humans are far worse than the monsters they are hunting.

In order to survive, she must put her trust in the man who has tried to kill her—twice.

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Keep reading for an interview with the author:

What is your writing process?

The first draft of almost any book is written almost completely as it flows, very train-of-thought, and then the following drafts are more structured, better considered, edited, re-edited, dissected etc. until there is a copy that can be called a 'final draft'. Proportionally speaking, the initial draft doesn't take all that much time. It's the edited and re-written versions that follow that take the most time.

Do you write in first or third person, past or present tense?

I write in third person, past tense. It feels the most natural to me and I also prefer it in the books I read.

Are you a pantser or outliner?

Both. I'd love to be more spontaneous, but I do have to get very structural at times, especially since I am writing a book series. My flowcharts are legendary by now.

How long does it take you to write a book?

On average, a couple of years per book. My work does overlap, though, so I may be working on two books at the same time.

How do you come up with the titles for your books?

The titles of my books are the result of endless brainstorming sessions.

Do you find it difficult?

Yes, coming up with a good title is hard work!

Do you write about real life experiences, or does everything come from your imagination?

Both. My writing is a mix of things that I know and that are real and things that I have either come up with or have taken an artistic license with. I also spend a lot of time on background work, studying new things or just deepening my knowledge on things I already know about whether professionally or just because of personal interests.

Do you ever base your characters on people you know?

Not directly, no, however, there are moments in the books that reflect real life.

What are you working on now?

I am currently working on the third book in the Bonnie Parker series.

What inspired your current work?

I originally wanted to write a paranormal suspense story that would deal with familiar themes in a new, perhaps more minimalist way. I wanted to create a story that was both classy and believable, creating an "it could happen" feeling for the reader, as well as exciting, entertaining and creepy in just the right places without gratuitous gore.

I wasn't supposed to write a book series, but when I finished my first book, "They Wait in the Woods" I had this strong feeling that my characters weren't done telling their story and so I decided to continue with them even though I was suppose to start a completely different project. Considering that I am now writing the third book in the series, I suppose I was right. I have this feeling I've just gotten started!

What was the hardest part about writing your latest book?

Keeping all the plot bunnies under control and bringing it all together through the entire series so far - with later volumes in mind.

Saturday, 22 April 2017

They Wait in the Woods by S. M. Sevón

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About the Book

Shortlisted for Literary Lightbox Indie Spotlight in 2016

The woods are lovely, dark and deep.

Four university buddies go out to the Lewis family cabin near Tahoe for a few days of outdoor sports and hard partying. The stay has a horrible end, however, when three of the young men are found brutally murdered while the last one of the party has gone missing, presumed to be responsible for the killings.

Their best friend may be the prime suspect, but was he really responsible for the murders as evidence points to something far more sinister, something more beast than man?

Fueled by concern over the welfare of their best friend and tormented by all the unanswered questions, Bonnie and Eric decide to take a late-night drive to the cabin and take a look at the scene of the crime for themselves. The plan is simple: a quick look around and a return home before morning classes start.

But they have no idea of what savage secrets wait for them in the woods.

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Keep reading for an interview with the author:

Why did you decide to be a writer?

I already tried my hand at writing as a kid, but I found my proper voice and writing groove during my student years.

Did you have a hard time sharing your work with the public?

Yes, I am very private, but it was my husband - who is my everything - who apparently saw talent, inspired and encouraged me to write and eventually got me to publish. I also feel I have the best editing team a writer could ever ask for. They have given me the support, critique, inspiration and faith in my work to do what I do.

Do you have a "day job"?

I'm a translator and a technical writer. I have a master's degree in translation and interpretation.

What genres do you write?

Many different ones. I have some unpublished fantasy, cyberpunk and sci-fi material, however, I've currently focused on paranormal suspense with elements of horror.

What inspires you to write?

My crazy, overactive imagination that doesn't know how to be quiet.

How often do you write?

Every day. Sometimes more, sometimes less.

How long does it take you to write a novel?

On average, a couple of years.

What is the quirkiest thing you've ever done while writing?

I write listening to music - and I mean always. The writing starts only once I have my headphones on. I also have a tendency to listen to specific types of music when working on a specific genre - and the choice is not a conscious one. I just get inspired by a specific type of music and I start writing. The combinations can be a little strange at times. As an example, I wrote fantasy to heavy metal. The Bonnie Parker books were written to EDM (especially nu disco). Go figure.

What is the oddest thing you've ever researched for one of your books?

There are so many! In my work as a translator, I specialize in both medical and technical materials, so the definition of "odd" is probably not the same for me as for others. I think my browser search history is very interesting indeed.

When did you first consider yourself an author?

When I held a paperback copy of my first book in my hands. Reading the title text on it and seeing my name was just something incredibly special.

Does your family support you in your writing, or are you on your own?

Yes, my family supports me even though I am sure that my long hours at the keyboard can be annoying at times.

Do you feel the support of family and friends is helpful to you as an author?

I am where I am thanks to my family's support.

What are you working on now?

I am currently working on the third book in the Bonnie Parker series.

Wednesday, 19 April 2017

The Redemption Games (A SciFi Thriller Short Story) by Renee Scattergood

Renee Scattergood lives in Australia with her husband, Nathan, and daughter, Taiya. She has always been a fan of fantasy and was inspired to become a story-teller by George Lucas, but didn't start considering writing down her stories until she reached her late twenties. Now she enjoys writing dark fantasy and paranormal thrillers.

She is currently publishing her monthly Shadow Stalker serial, and she has published a prequel novella to the series called, Demon Hunt. She is also working on a new series of novels, A God's Deception.

Aside from writing, she loves reading (fantasy, of course), watching movies with her family, and doing crafts and science experiments with her daughter. Visit her site for more information and a free copy of Shadow Stalker Part 1 (Episodes 1 – 6).

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About the Book

Jillian is a teenage runaway. She has survived on the streets for over a year, but when a man shows up promising her a better future, she ignores her instincts and goes with him. Now she finds herself on an alien world in a last-man-standing competition that she has no hope of winning, unless she can find an ally.

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Keep reading for an excerpt:

There was no sound. Jillian was sure she outran them this time. She was smart though. Too smart to move this early and give up her location. The last time she did that, they nearly got her. She crouched in the shadows of a dumpster and waited. About twenty minutes passed before she dared to move, and even then it was only to move further into the alley where she could eat in peace.

"All this for a box of cereal," Jillian whispered to herself. She squeezed through the small opening in the boarded up doorway of the abandoned building she called home. After climbing to the second floor, she barricaded herself in a small room that she was sure had once been an office. Probably where the boss sat in his cushy chair while the people worked their butts off in the sweat shop below.

After opening the box, she shoved handful after handful of cereal into her mouth until she couldn't swallow another bite. Leaning back she sighed. It had been days since she had a full belly.

Jillian didn't realize she had started dozing until a noise woke her. She wasn't alone in the building. She heard the soft clang of boots on the metal stairway. She was trapped. She hid behind some boxes and old furniture that had been left behind just in time for someone to force their way through her barricade. She froze. For a moment there was no sound.

"I know you're here," a male's voice called out.

Tuesday, 11 April 2017

Nika by D.H. Gibbs

With an active imagination and a love of art D.H. Gibbs has chosen to combine her talents by writing and illustrating books. She weaves tales for both New and Young Adults and plans to publish more soon.

D.H. Gibbs hails from the Caribbean where in her free time she reads, paints and travel when she can.

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About the Book

Taken off the streets Nika is thrown into an unknown world where she’s held captive. As an orphan, she has been on the run and must find her way out before they discover her secret. But these people held the knowledge of her family and who she is. Will she be able to find out before her secret is reviled?

After hundreds of years, Demyan has finally found the rightful ruler of his race. Unfortunately, she doesn’t know who she is and is doing everything in her power to escape him. Time is running out and Demyan has to convince Nika to take her rightful place otherwise the battle will be lost and his race extinguished.

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Keep reading for an interview with Nika from the book:

Where were you born, and what was it like growing up there?

I was born on the Island of Seychatka but I did not grow up there. I grew up in the Regular's word.

What are your goals? What would you like to achieve?

I would like to bring peace to the two races on my island without blood shed.

What is the most important lesson you've learned about life?

That people fear what they don't understand.

What is the strangest situation you've ever found yourself in?

Kidnapped off of the streets, then to be told I'm not human.

Where is the best place to visit in your world?

You would have to ask my cousin Alex. I have been stuck on the Konstantinos compound since I got here.

Do you have any hobbies?

I love swimming, horseback riding and learning about history.

Do you have a secret you've never told anyone? Would you tell us?

Yes I do and if I tell you then it wouldn't be a secret.

Have you ever been in love?

Yes I have and I wound up being experimented on. So I would have to say it didn't work out so well.

What kind of clothing do you prefer to wear?

Anything that's comfortable.

What do you regret most in your life?

I regret not knowing my mother because she would be a better Queen than I am. Being guided by her is something that's irreplaceable.

Would you ever or have you ever lied?

Oh I'm a terrible. My face or body language is a dead giveaway. And I hate when people lie to me, usually because when they do, they are up to no good.

If you had one day left to live, what would you do with your last day?

I would try to meet with my brother in the hopes of being a family again.

Saturday, 8 April 2017

Gnarled Bones and Other Stories by Tam May

Tam May was born in Israel but grew up in the America. She earned her college degree in English before returning to the States. She also has a Master's degree in English and worked as an English instructor and EFL teacher before she became a full-time writer. She started writing when she was 14 and writing became her voice. She writes psychological fiction that explores emotional realities informed by past experiences, dreams, feelings, fantasies, nightmares, imagination, and self-analysis.

Her first work, a short story collection titled Gnarled Bones And Other Stories is out now in paperback and ebook. She is currently working on a novella series set in a Northern California resort town. The series explores the crumbling relationships among the wealthy San Francisco Alderdice family.

She is also working on another book titled House of Masks about a woman who, mourning the death of her father, breaks free of isolation and loneliness when she is drawn into the lives of her two neighbors, one eccentric and one embittered. For more about Tam and her work, feel free to check out her website.

She currently lives in Texas but calls San Francisco and the Bay Area home. When she’s not writing, she’s reading classic literature and watching classic films.

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About the Book

Gnarled Bones and Other Stories explores five tales of loss, fear, and guilt where strange and spooky events impact people’s lives in ways that are profound and unchangeable.

In “Mother of Mischief”, a newly divorced woman goes back to school to begin a new chapter of her life only to find herself circling back to where she started. In “Bracelets”, childhood nostalgia mingles with brutal fear during a circus outing for a mailroom secretary and her friends. In “A First Saturday Outing”*, a lonely woman ventures out of her isolated apartment one quiet Saturday afternoon to an art exhibit that leaves an eerie impression on her psyche*. In “Broken Bows”, a middle-aged violinist reveals the mystery behind his declining artistic powers to a lonely woman on a train. And the title story, “Gnarled Bones”, paints a portrait of the complex bond between an orphaned sister and brother through journal entries and first-person narrative. For these characters, the past leaves its shadow on the present and future.

* This story was featured on Whimsy Gardener’s Storytime With Whimsey.

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Keep reading for an interview with the author:

Why did you decide to be a writer?

I decided to become a writer because when I discovered writing at the age of 14, I had no real voice. I grew up in a very overprotected family and I was very shy and introverted. I was taught to keep my feelings hidden and my opinions to myself. I realized through starting a journal and writing fiction that my real voice could emerge through writing.

Do you have a "day job"?

I'm fortunate enough to have been able to quit my day job last year. I worked right out of college in clerical/administrative work and then went back to school to get my graduate degree. After that, I worked as a college English instructor and later, as an EFL (English as a Foreign Language) teacher and tutor.

What genres do you write?

I write psychological fiction, which is a subgenre of contemporary/literary fiction, as well as a subgenre of several other categories (like suspense, thriller, and horror). But the fiction that I write is more psychological drama. I wrote a guest post explaining what psychological fiction is and why I write it here.

What inspires you to write?

Everything! Seriously, if something seems out of place or curious or quirky, I can find inspiration in it. It could be a strange image I see on the internet, a character from a movie that intrigued me, a conversation that I overhear at Starbuck's. Anything.

Do you have a daily word or page count goal?

I don't do well with daily word or page count goals, as I always feel like I'm just writing to fill up space. The exception is when I participate in National Novel Writing Month :-). However, I do try to write for a certain amount of time most days. I have concentration issues so I can't sit for long stretches of time, but I sit for 45 minutes or 1 hour and write continuously during that space of time. If I'm lucky, I squeeze in two writing sessions during the day.

What authors/books have most influenced you?

The author that has most influenced me is Anais Nin and the book that really changed my entire view of fiction was her book of short stories, Under a Glass Bell. I discovered the book on a bookstore shelf in Israel among the eclectic books written in English. The book is quite experimental with lyrical prose and it was my first exposure to that kind of writing. I was amazed not only by the beauty of the language but also by the way Nin could take a character and completely turn him or her inside out. I wanted to do that with my fiction, but in my own way and my own style, of course.

When did you first consider yourself an author?

Honestly, I only began to consider myself an author when I got the proof copy of the paperback version of my book, Gnarled Bones and Other Stories, in November of last year. It was holding the book in my hand, seeing the cover and the words written inside that were mine that made me feel I was really an author. I was always a writer, but that was the first time I started identifying myself as an author.

What is the best compliment you've ever received as an author?

The best complement came from a woman in my critique group. She commented on my story "Gnarled Bones" that my writing always made her feel comforted, no matter what the context was. That was a huge thing for me because I do tend to write dark psychological fiction, so my stories and characters are definitely not shiny happy people in sunny situations. But I do try to offer rays of hope in my stories and redeeming characteristics for my characters.

What do you enjoy doing aside from writing?

I love reading, obviously! I've always been fascinated by the past so I love reading classic literature. I'm also a huge classic film fan. I love the black-and-whites!

What made you decide to self-publish?

I loved the idea of being master of my own career with self-publishing, even though I knew it would mean a lot more work and perhaps less respect from the so-called literary establishment. I also knew that what I was writing was going to be a hard sell to publishers and literary agents. My style is more character-based and I love writing shorter works, like novellas and short stories. Those aren't readily published by publishers.

What are you working on now?

Right now, I'm working on several different projects. I'm nearly finished with the first round of revisions for the first book of my Waxwood series, The Order of Acateon and I'm submitting chapters to my wonderful critique group to help me with round two of revisions. I'm just about to begin the first draft for Book 2 of the series, The Claustrophobic Heart. I'm also working on another book titled House of Masks which I started during NaNo last year.

Wednesday, 5 April 2017

Shadow Stalker: The Beginning of the End (Episode 19) by Renee Scattergood

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