Showing posts with label Sage. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sage. Show all posts

Sunday, August 31, 2014

Book Spotlight: Hostage

Hostage: Kidnapped on the High Seas
by Linda Davies

Genre: Memoir

Synopsis

Known for her powerful female protagonists who refuse to back down in the face of evil, New York Times bestselling author Linda Davies somehow found herself in a situation that could have been ripped from the pages of one of her thrillers. 

In 2005, Linda was living happily with her family in Dubai. Ever the adventurer, she was on the maiden voyage of her new catamaran alongside her husband when the boat's captain unknowingly sailed into sharply contested waters in the Strait of Hormuz, off the coast of Iran. Soon the trio were surrounded by gun boats and boarded by armed Iranian militants.


Over the next two weeks Linda was held hostage by one of the most feared regimes in the world, with no reason to expect anything but the worst. The story of her imprisonment and harrowing escape, which she has worked so hard in the past to forget, is told in candid and shocking detail.  Crackling with tension, it is also laced through with black humor and insight. Iran is perhaps the most hated and the least understood country in modern society and Linda's account gives a rare, illuminating glimpse into the realities of the oppressive regime.

About the Author

Linda Davies is half Welsh, half Danish, or half Celt, half Viking, and loves myths, legends of warriors and the sea.

 A graduate in Politics, Philosophy and Economics from Oxford University, she worked for seven years an as investment banker in New York, London and Easter Europe before escaping to write novels.  She grew up steeped in economics as both her late father, Professor Glyn Davies and her late brother, Professor John Davies, were economists.  Like them, she believes that economics is more art than science and she particularly enjoys delving into the emotions of markets and market makers, both the honest (yes, they do exist!) and the fraudsters, many of whom remain invisible.

Her first Novel, Nest of Vipers, has been published in over thirty countries, selling over two million copies.  It has also been optioned three times by major Hollywood studios. 
 Linda has written four more novels for adults which have all been published internationally; Wilderness of Mirrors, Into the Fire, Something Wild and Final Settlement.  She is known for her portrayal of strong, independent and rebellious women in extreme situations.
Linda lived in Peru for three years, and in the Middle East for eight years, during which time she was kidnapped by Iranian government forces and held hostage for two weeks in Iran.  After UK government intervention, she was freed.   

Linda writes for Young Adults too.  Her first series, the Djinn Quintet - Sea Djinn, Fire Djinn, Storm Djinn and King of the Djinn (and in time War of the Djinn) - has been optioned by Hollywood producer, Sandy Climan.

 As well as writing novels, Linda also writes for The Times, Sunday Times, Daily Telegraph, Independent and the Guardian newspapers in the UK, and the National Theatre.  She is a winner of the Philip Geddes Prize for journalism.  Linda is married with three children.  She lives by the sea in Suffolk.

Twitter: @LindaDaviesAuth 

Tuesday, June 17, 2014

Blog Stop & Interview: The Art of Trapeze

The Art of Trapeze
by Molly McCord

Synopsis


On a random Thursday morning, with nothing to lose and only a dream to gain, Molly McCord decides to move to Paris, France to follow the courageous call of her heart. She arrives in a city she has never visited before and where she knows no one, yet she trusts her ability to figure it out because her adventurous life has prepared her for this biggest of leaps. She carries the wisdom of Solitude, Strength, Style, Flexibility, Heart, Endurance, and Grace in her non-matching luggage collection.
Molly’s soul-riveting experiences unfold in surprising ways as she discovers the joys and realities of life as a foreigner in France, falls in love with a sexy Turkish man, moves her cats across the Atlantic, enjoys the rare opportunity of working for a U.S. Ambassador, and creates the life of her dreams in less than two years.
Yet when unexpected developments require her to surrender once again, a higher consciousness catches her with a deeper spiritual awakening.

The Art of Trapeze soars with emotional honesty, delightful humor, unexpected wisdom, and inspiring spiritual perspectives around living life to the fullest when nothing is guaranteed except gravity.
***
Interview
Do you have to travel much concerning your book(s)?

I have always been a a traveler first, a writer second. I've been on numerous adventures in my life, and although I won't write about all of them, I love sharing the stories that can inspire and uplift others. I believe travel is a wonderful gateway into exploring more of ourselves, and writing is the vehicle to share those discoveries. My passport is always ready for the next adventure! And my laptop will be packed, too!

What was the hardest part of writing your book?

The hardest part was definitely stretching beyond my comfort zone as a writer and digging into more of my authentic self. The work of Brene Brown, and other amazing female writers, have inspired me to be courageously vulnerable and open up because this is often where we connect with readers more. Numerous people have emailed me to share similar stories and life events, and that's really the hallmark of writing – creating connections with people. As Maya Angelou said, “Human beings are more alike than we are unalike.” 

Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it?

I believe that when we follow our passion, we continuously learn more about ourselves. Writing The Art of Trapeze filled me with incredible joy, temporary restraint, quiet moments of contemplation, and an unstoppable determination. Since it is a memoir, it forced me to become clearer about my messages and writing style and what I was willing to share. And obviously I was willing to share a lot, LOL! I also developed an even greater respect for some of my favorite memoir writers, such as Elizabeth Gilbert, and Cheryl Strayed, and other fellow spiritual seekers who love learning about their soul growth.


Do you have any advice for other writers?

Develop a strategy for dealing with your Inner Critic or Self-Doubt. Find your writing style and own it. Commit to yourself as a storyteller. Be gentle, kind, and compassionate to yourself as needed. Know that you are here to share what is uniquely yours, whether it is on paper or not, and you must not hold yourself back. You must commit to YOU. Our time on the planet can be spent doing whatever fills us with joy, and it is a great honor to love our creative spirit. As Joseph Campbell said, “Follow your bliss!” - and to that I say, keep writing! The world is always hungry for more stories. 

What were the challenges (research, literary, psychological, and logistical) in bringing it to life?

I started writing The Art of Trapeze in 2008 and it was 80% complete by 2009 - but then I stalled out. I was stuck trying to figure out the last 20% of the story because there was still so much more to share and I didn't want to cram it all together. In 2010, I was a semi-finalist in The Next Top Author competition, but even that didn't bring about a solution, so I let the book sit on my computer for a few years. I was hard on myself about it at times. Then, in 2013, it hit me that the single book I originally planned was really a series. This realization was like a dam breaking open – in a good way! - and my inspiration took off. I re-wrote the whole book in four months, and it was definitely better than the first version. Then the second book, The Modern Heroine's Journey of Consciousness, came together easily, and the third book, The Unlimited Sparks of a Bonfire, will be released later in 2014. During the writing hiatus, I learned to trust on deeper levels, to love myself through the process of discovery, and to stay committed to my writing ambitions. The challenges we face in the creative process will always bring rewards as long as we continue to show up for our dreams and allow ourselves to be delighted by something even better. 

Thank you for your interest in my books and writing process! It's been an honor to connect with you and your awesome readers. And if you're interested, you can get a free 44-page ebook on my website – it's all about ridiculously loving and celebrating yourself more!

Links





About the Author


Molly McCord, M.A., is a bestselling author, astrologer, and modern spiritual teacher with no religious affiliations. Her debut memoir, The Art of Trapeze: One Woman's Journey of Soaring, Surrendering, and Awakening, hit #1 in 2 Amazon categories within 3 days. The Art of Trapeze is the first book in her Awakening Consciousness Series, followed by The Modern Heroine’s Journey of Consciousness, in which she integrates Joseph Campbell’s hero’s journey with spiritual growth. Molly released five books in 2013, including her contribution to the bestselling The Thought That Changed My Life Forever where she was published alongside such luminaries as Dr. Michael Bernard Beckwith, Dr. Joe Dispenza, and Dr. Bernie Siegel.

Often referred to as a Consciousness Catalyst, Molly's popular website, www.ConsciousCoolChic.com was nominated by Intent.com for Best Spirituality Website in 2011. She is a practicing intuitive astrologer who has connected with clients in over 20 countries, and she is the official contributing astrologer to Happiness + Wellbeing magazine. Molly's popular weekly radio show attracted over 70,000 downloads in the first year.
Molly has a B.A. in Political Science and Women’s Studies, and a Master’s degree in International Relations and Diplomacy as a formal channel for understanding Global Consciousness with a Jungian perspective. She is TESOL certified and volunteers her time teaching English to college-level international students.




Tuesday, May 20, 2014

Review: Birth of an Assassin


Birth of an Assassin
by Rik Stone

Synopsis

Set against the backdrop of Soviet, post-war Russia, Birth of an Assassin follows the transformation of Jez Kornfeld from wide-eyed recruit to avenging outlaw. Amidst a murky underworld of flesh-trafficking, prostitution and institutionalized corruption, the elite Jewish soldier is thrown into a world where nothing is what it seems, nobody can be trusted, and everything can be violently torn from him.

Given the order to disperse and arrest a crowd of Jewish demonstrators in Red Square, Jez breaks up the rally but discovers his sisters in their ranks. Rushed for a solution, he sneaks the girls from under the noses of secret police and hides them in downtown Moscow. But he knows they will no longer be safe in Russia. He has to find them a safe route out. 


The journey begins, but he is unaware that his every move is being observed and that he has set in motion a chain of events that will plunge his life into a headlong battle to stay alive.

Review

I've become a sucker for a good assassin story - especially one that is as detailed as this one. Although I have a fondness for history, I pretty much suck at any reference toward any part of history. This is what made this book stand out because I didn't need to remember bits and pieces of history in order to make the story work. That is how detailed Birth of an Assassin is. 

Jez is quite a dynamic character which helps in the whirlwind of events in his life. The reader cares about it's character and is right alongside him with every action packed moment. The book is all about his sacrifices, choices and consequences which is what makes the story such a non-stop-read, but what also makes Jez a character and not just a character - if you know what I mean. It is truly a story that should be experienced and not just "blurbed" about. 

Verdict

Fans of history and action-packed stories will love this one. Let yourself be caught up in it. I'm glad I did.

Tuesday, February 18, 2014

Interview: Sage Adderley - Author of Invoking Nonna


Invoking Nonna
by Sage Adderley

Note: As you can see, dear reader, I am running late on this interview! No fear because my good friend Sage, author of the lovely book Invoking Nonna (how AWESOME is that?) has been quite understanding of my lateness. Now, onto the good stuff!

Book Synopsis  


Maggie Sloan is a free-spirited teenager growing up in rural Georgia. Unlike her peers, Maggie is a witch and so is her mother. In addition to normal teenager rites of passage, she must learn about her family lineage and witchcraft. Her mother, Laura, keeps a tight lid on their family secrets - like the mysterious life and death of her grandmother who passed away before Maggie was born. 

Practicing the craft will test solid friendships and introduce Maggie to new realms. While seeking the truth about herself and her family, Maggie is faced with danger from churchgoing classmates who will stop at nothing to make sure she is found out. Laura and Maggie strengthen their bond through witchcraft and work together to overcome their enemies. Are their magical gifts enough to keep them safe? 

Interview 

 1. What inspired you to write a book about a strong teen who becomes/realizes she’s Wiccan? 

 I love YA novels, but it’s rare you come across a teen character that practices witchcraft in modern times without some fantastical theme or character, like dragons or witches flying on broomsticks. I enjoy fantasy stories, but I wanted to depict a teen girl who happens to practice Wicca in present day. I also wanted to show how hard it can be to publicly practice a religion other than Christianity, especially in the deep south of the US. 

 2. How did you do your research for the Wiccan details in your story? It’s detailed in the best way! 

 Thank you! I’ve been reading about Wicca since I was a teenager. So, roughly twenty years. I’ve always been drawn to Pagan spirituality, so I am very familiar with Wicca. I also took advantage of books at my local library. 

 3. I love that you used the library! Many young adult authors appear pressured to include a love story in their books – was this something you considered for Invoking Nonna? 

 Well, I didn’t want a love story, but I was concerned this would be an issue for readers because it’s extremely common in most young adult books these days to have a romance and/or love triangle. Actually, I am surprised by how many people have commented that it’s refreshing not to have a love interest for Maggie. Who knows what the future has in store for Maggie, but right now, her family is the main focus. 

 4. I know I definitely appreciated how strong Maggie was without a male counterpart. Maggie and her best friend are so different – was that difficult for you to write as your story moved forward? 

 Not really. I wanted them to have a good connection while maintaining their own identities. I think that is important. 

 5. Definitely! Also, the mother/daughter relationship is dealt with heavily in your book – something that many women can sympathize with. Why did you pick this particular theme to center your story around? 

 I think many readers can relate to the issue of disconnect with their parents. I wanted to show a particular situation that could be mended between a mother and daughter no matter how bleak things seemed to be. 

 6. In general, what motivated you to write your story? What motivates you to continue? 

 Fun fact about how the story started - The first scene I wrote for the book was about the family of healers that have a magical shop set up at the local flea market. They were my inspiration. I built the Sloan family around Ana and Claudia. I have to continue because there is so much more to this family. More secrets, more pain, more love … and more magic! 

 7. We know you can’t tell us everything, but can you give any hint as to where Maggie’s story is going? 

For you, I will give some hints. In book two we will delve deeper into “the curse” and I think readers will learn more about Maggie’s father, too. The dynamic between Ruby and Maggie has changed, I’ll be touching on that. 

8. Thank you for the exclusive! Do you have any other projects in the works? 

Aside from writing book two of the Triple Goddess Series, I am also churning some ideas for a preschool story that I have in my brain. 

Many thanks to author, Sage Adderley, for taking the time to answer my questions and providing us an inside look into her world of Invoking Nonna. If you haven't read it, keep reading this to find out where you can order your copy today!

Book Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E5Dnc1YczF0 

Purchase Links
Amazon – http://www.amazon.com/Invoking-Nonna-Sage-Adderley/dp/0989709825 
Etsy (print & digital available) - https://www.etsy.com/shop/sage 

Follow Sage
Website – http://sageadderley.com/ 
Goodreads - https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7559413.Sage_Adderley Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/MyNameIsSage 
Twitter - https://twitter.com/sageadderley 

About the Author

Sage Adderley is a single (and very busy) mom of three humans and one cat. She is passionate about kindness, coffee, mental health, fat activism, and the DIY lifestyle. 

Sage is the owner of Sweet Candy Distro & Press, Sage's Blog Tours, and writes the zines Tattooed Memoirs and Marked For Life. She is also the creator of FAT-TASTIC! 

Sage currently resides in the magical land of Olympia, Wa.

Sunday, February 9, 2014

Zine Review: Echo! Echo! #10


Echo! Echo! #10
by Keet Geniza

First of all, can we talk about this cover? The awesomeness of this cover? I may be biased (let's create a drinking game where you, reader, take a drink of any beverage of your choice whenever you read "I may be biased..." on my blog), but I love the blending of red and orange. It just pops out and looks fantastic.

Okay, now that the geeky artsy part of me has  had its fun, let's get to the actual zine. This zine has a great mix of everything. It has a fantastic quote (Margaret Atwood, 'nut said), comics, personal entries and a little something else. Geniza talks about thrifting with her father, writing/discovering zines and even a bit about trying to be a loyal anime fan. 

"For the rest of the year, zines became my only obsession. I walked around giddy and wakeful and excited about the possibilities."

I found all of the zine, whether Geniza was talking about her dad, anime fandom or telling a story, truly inspiring. Something that really helped along with that was the fantastic illustrations that accompanied the work. Whether it was the comic strip or the additions to the entries - they added a level to the work that just...works.

Anyway, don't take my word for it, go check it out. If you like personal zines with a lil of everything, you'll love this. 

Check out this zine and many other's at my friend Sage's Sweet Candy Distro.

Monday, February 3, 2014

Review: The Main Ingredient


The Main Ingredient
by Margo Wilson

Synopsis

What does it mean to love? How does one defy death? And will people pay good money for your Friday night fish fry? These are some of the mysteries facing West Coast food editor Wendy Whitby when she reluctantly returns to her childhood home in Weewampum, Wis., to await her mother’s demise. But cantankerous Seal (Cecilia) refuses to pass into the Great Beyond according to schedule. While Wendy waits for Seal to expire, Wendy begrudgingly helps out her two high school pals, flamboyant Amber Moore and reticent Merribeth Hartwell, who have opened a restaurant in downtown Weewampum. 


Wendy and her friends soon are embroiled in their hometown’s political feuds. Some of the well-heeled citizens, including Merribeth’s father, have decided they want to close the town’s hospital downtown and move it to a spiffy building along the interstate. But the women feel the downtown will deteriorate even further if the old hospital shuts its doors, so their restaurant, Amberosia’s, becomes the headquarters of the Stop the Hospital Move campaign. 

After Amberosia’s burns to the ground, the women are convinced someone set the fire to scare them off because they oppose the hospital move. However, Fire Marshal Warren Caramel suspects the women torched the place to collect the insurance money. The threesome realize they’ll have to solve the arson case themselves to avoid spending the best years of their lives in Waysippee State Prison for Women. 

As their arson investigation opens old wounds, causes new ones, and reveals secrets that maybe should have been left concealed, the women are forced to grapple with such issues as: How much does a friend do for a friend? How far does family allegiance go? What is the price of family, and especially, mother-daughter love? What are the magnetic and repelling forces of one’s hometown? And, of course, how much will someone pay for a plateful of fried lake perch?

Review

This book has a little bit of everything!! We get to meet three childhood friends as they embark into a humorous and suspenseful adventure in their town. Wilson does a wonderful job of creating character development which is often times a difficult thing to do when you have more than one "important" character. The reader ends up caring about the threesome and their stories. As if the wonderfully-written friendship wasn't enough, these women are written as actual real women. It's truly a breath of fresh air. 

I read another review recently that described this book as "smart and fun just like the protagonists" and I gotta say, that reviewer got it just right! You don't feel pity for these women or anything short of appreciation. It's wonderful to have such a well written story that cares about it's characters!

Verdict

If you like stories about friends and mysteries that are more than just mysteries - this book is for you!

About the Author


When Margo Wilson was 3 years old, she thought an elevator operator was about to squish her imaginary friends, Keke and Frick, in a department store’s elevator doors, so she screamed for the operator to free them. The operator complied, while Margo’s mom shook her head, and Margo beamed like a superhero. The incident still is the ultimate example of how Margo’s imagination influenced reality, and it helped hook Margo on the power of inventing her own world.  

But the daughter of a police officer and elementary school teacher is nothing if not practical, so Margo chose to be a journalist, a career in which facts and information, presented in compelling ways, often have a chance to influence others’ actions. Margo worked as a staff writer and editor at nine newspapers, ranging from the Spruce Grove Star, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, to the Los Angeles Times. Her words led to the defeat of a racist school board member, the resignation of some greedy community college administrators, and publicity for an unknown recording artist who later became one of Margo’s best friends. Margo learned that words have power. 

She also learned that words have beauty. So she returned to school (Goddard College) to polish her creative writing skills and as a result, landed a job teaching writing at California University of Pennsylvania and snagged a book contract with Ramsfield Press. 

These days, she’s working on a memoir about travel and taking a journey, and a series of novels about a dog who ... well, let’s leave that a secret.Although she grew up in Wisconsin, Margo has lived in Indiana, Canada, and California. She makes her home in Southwestern Pennsylvania, with her flat-haired retriever (Well, maybe that’s what she is. The vet is not sure.) Moosie, and her cats Oreo, Lucy, ChaCha, and Mimi. They are forever using their imaginations to devise new ways to persuade Margo to feed them or pet them.

Sunday, January 26, 2014

Review: Windows: A Broken Fairy Tale


Windows: A Broken Fairy Tale
by Casey Bramble

Book Synopsis

Hush little baby don’t say a word 
The Darkness hides in an ivory bird 
But if that ivory bird can’t sing 
That’s when the Witches’ Hammer swings. 
 -- Nursery rhyme 

 A year ago Sarah Petty could not dream of the life she now lived. In those days she was one of the downtrodden masses; an unremarkable body upon which the upper caste built their castles of gold. Luckier than most, she at least had her blacksmithing skills to keep a roof over her head, though she went hungry more often than not. All of that changed with one fatal decision. 

She said yes. 

Lady Raven Chandlish, a sorceress with a smile that lit up the night and enough magical power to level a city, asked Sarah to open a shop with her in a different duchy. After moving things felt like they were on a definite upswing. There was food in the cupboard, money in the bank, and someone she might be falling in love with. Sarah didn’t dare pinch herself just in case it was all a dream. Like all dreams, this sunlit world was a feeble defense against the encroaching darkness. 

Buried deep within Raven’s soul was Malleus Maleficarum, an ancient demon that nearly destroyed the world twice before. Drawing on feelings stronger than the weapons she forged, Sarah learned to trust Raven could contain the demon. Malleus had other plans. 

When enemies of the Chandlish family attacked, Malleus used a momentary distraction to take over Raven’s body. While hundreds of soldiers battled for the fate of cities, a terrified blacksmith battled for the fate of a world. With no hope of rescue, Sarah whispered into the leering face of madness, praying love would save her.

Review

Anyone who reads my blog knows that I'm not that into Science Fiction or Adult Fantasy. Not because I don't want to, mind you - but mostly because I never knew where to start and with what author etc. Thankfully for me, this story fell into my lap :D

Windows had some characters with wonderful descriptions. The whole world, really, was filled with detail and care. Although humorous at times, it also had its dark moments which really fleshed out the story. It was a great introduction to fantasy!

What I truly enjoyed were all the parallels in the story. I don't want to give them away, but it would be hard not to notice them once you start reading it. I believe that Bramble has a good series on her hands if she wishes to continue it - and I hope that she does!!

Verdict

Teen readers or parents of teen readers - proceed with caution? I add the question mark because my parents didn't care about what I read and I was brought up just fine :) To each their own! But I definitely recommend this story to the readers of fantasy or wannabe readers of fantasy like me :)




Friday, December 27, 2013

Review: Invoking Nonna

Invoking Nonna
by Sage Adderley

Series: Triple Goddess Series (Book 1) Paperback: 186 pages 
Publisher: Sweet Candy Press; 1ST edition (December 20, 2013) 
Language: English 
ISBN-10: 0989709825 
ISBN-13: 978-0989709828 

Book Synopsis

Maggie Sloan is a free-spirited teenager growing up in rural Georgia. Unlike her peers, Maggie is a witch and so is her mother. In addition to normal teenager rites of passage, she must learn about her family lineage and witchcraft. Her mother, Laura, keeps a tight lid on their family secrets - like the mysterious life and death of her grandmother who passed away before Maggie was born. 

Practicing the craft will test solid friendships and introduce Maggie to new realms. While seeking the truth about herself and her family, Maggie is faced with danger from churchgoing classmates who will stop at nothing to make sure she is found out. Laura and Maggie strengthen their bond through witchcraft and work together to overcome their enemies. Are their magical gifts enough to keep them safe? 

Invoking Nonna is the first book in the Triple Goddess series.

Review

Okay - I'm going to just be honest with you dear reader - I'm biased when it comes to this book. Why, do you ask? Well, for one, the author (the lovely Ms Sage) is a dear friend of mine and two, I helped edit this book. See? Aren't you happy how honest I am?

With that said, I'm also honest. If I DIDN'T like this book, I would be very vague so as not to hurt my dear friend's feelings. HOWEVER, that is not the case because I loved this book!

Maggie is an honest, true-to-herself young woman who has come to identify as a witch, just as her mother does. This would be great, except that Maggie's mother is extremely private - often keeping Maggie more than an arms length away. This makes it difficult for Maggie to understand where she comes from, but it doesn't dissuade her from knowing who she wants to become. 

Maggie is a wonderful character - one that can be looked up to. I quite enjoyed the evolution of the relationship between Maggie and her mother the most :)

Mix the need of self-discovery with learning about the tolerance (or lack thereof) of others and you, reader, have a wonderful book to get yourself lost in. The best part? It's only the beginning of Maggie's story (it's only the first in a series!). 

Verdict

Read it, of course. This book is great for anyone, but I would especially recommend it to pre-teens and teens who are in the process of self-discovery themselves. 

Read about it herehttp://sageadderley.blogspot.com/2013/12/i-wrote-book.html
Buy it herehttp://www.amazon.com/Invoking-Nonna-Sage-Adderley/dp/0989709825/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1388211259&sr=8-1&keywords=invoking+nonna
And herehttp://www.etsy.com/listing/173445970/invoking-nonna-ya-paranormal-book?ref=shop_home_active