Thanks for visiting Sophia Tallon's blog! We review books, audio books, screenplays, films, web series, plus much more! We also do interviews, spotlights, and guest posts! Please see our Contact/FAQ's page! Make sure you follow us on Bloglovin' or by email! Posts go live daily at 12 a.m. Central Daylight Time.

Friday 31 July 2015

(BOOK) White Cat - Holly Black

THIS BLOG POST WAS WRITTEN BY Ebony aka EGoddess!

White Cat by Holly Black [Curse Workers Trilogy]

[Young Adult Fantasy]
This book wasn't bad but I did think it was a little twisted/dark.... In a really weird way. Hard to explain. But because the line of work (curse work) in this town/world they live in is everyones knowledge, everything or everyone's reaction is pretty normal when things get gory and what not. it's like nothing is really all that bad or terrible. Which can be a little unsettling. I would not recommend this book, but I'd probably talk about it with someone.

Thursday 30 July 2015

(BOOK) Looking Back At Something Brilliant - Animal Farm

When asked, it is always difficult for me to label a book as the best one I've ever read. They look at how helpless I am, and they ask for a Top 5 or 7 or 10 list. And one book that's always been on the list is Animal Farm by George Orwell.

http://blogs.bellevue.edu/library/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/Animal-Farm.jpg

You know that feeling where you start reading a book, and by the time you are out of the spell of the book, it is a time completely different from the one you remember? Animal Farm was one such book for me. I read Animal Farm when I was in the 11th grade (we were supplied the books) as a part of the college curriculum, only to realize at the ending that it was an abridged version (no idea why). A few months ago, I read the Unabridged version, and found nothing that was fit to be edited out of the book.

This is a story seemingly written for children. Well, it is, and it isn't. The language is very simple. So simple, that it rises up to the level of deception. Orwell realized the possibility of telling the world the story of an out-of-control government, led by corrupt leaders, in a way that is both fun to read, and yet wonderfully deep. The humans are depicted by animals, and so well done, that they might be considered immortal now. There are parallels drawn to Lenin, Stalin, Marx, Trotsky, Molotov, the Tsar during the February Revolution, the KGB, and many others. Almost everything I love is in this book, a mix of dry humor and infectious satire, and subtle references to real-life events.

The book puts across the concepts and logics of Stalinism by showing how it failed, and by pointing out the faults in the logic of Stalinism. Orwell made this happen by using a very simple idea. He used talking animals. Which is lovely.

I mean, this is genius. Who wouldn't read a book where politicians, hated and bad ones at that, found their parallels in animals considered filthy and disgusting, like pigs?

Also, the irony used here is commendable. Like this like shows:

"All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others.”

The genius of the book not only lies in how the parallels were drawn, but the writing itself. The story is excellently complemented by the style of writing, and the last line of the book acts as the perfect example to describe the closing scene of the book:

“The creatures outside looked from pig to man, and from man to pig, and from pig to man again; but already it was impossible to say which was which.”  

This is one farm I'm going to reach out to again and again and again. You should, too.

(BOOK) Chasing Power - Sarah Beth Durst

THIS BLOG POST WAS WRITTEN BY Ebony aka EGoddess!
Chasing Power by Sarah Beth Durst

[Young Adult Sci Fi]

Sixteen year old Kayla has a special talent. She's telekinetic. Throughout this book you follow her on her journey. She's trying not to lie to her mom about using her talent, but she does anyways. Kayla meets Daniel who has the ability to teleport. Which becomes helpful on their quest.

I think this book was really good. Plus, it's a stand alone Sci Fi novel, so that's always nice. Keeping up with a series can get confusing sometimes. But I def recommend this book. There's lots of aspects that I haven't touched upon simply because it would be best to read and find out for yourself. So get your hands on this one!

Wednesday 29 July 2015

(BOOK) Extraction & Rebellion by Stephanie Diaz

THIS BLOG POST WAS WRITTEN BY Ebony aka EGoddess!
Extraction by Stephanie Diaz

[Young Adult Sci Fi/Dystopia]

 Clementine is anticipating extraction. What's extraction you ask? It's a selection that takes place when you're the age of sixteen. It's what determines if you have enough promise to actually live in the Core. See Kiels divided into different sectors. The Surface, Mantle, Core, etc. The Core is for the top dogs, and everyones wants to be there, especially since it would mean greater protection against the acid spilling from the moon. Yes they have a shield surrounding the planet to be safe but you can never be too careful right?

 I LOVED THIS BOOK! It wasn't what I expected really. It might be a little typical or cliché in some aspexts, but that doesn't matter because I think Stepahie Diaz did a pretty good job at writing this. I was rooting for Clementine the whole way through. With Extraction you're holding your breath, your excited, your upset, just everything! There's a bunch of emotions and good stuff in this book. It's a recommended read!

 And by the way, this is part of a trilogy. (1) Extraction, (2) Rebellion, and (3) Evolution. So if you're up for another series/trilogy give this one a go!

 

Rebellion by Stephanie Diaz

[Young Adult Sci Fi/Dystopia]


We continue with Clemintine's adventure and life journey in this book. Still lots of adventure and events in this one. There were some seriously intense moments. Rebellion gets your emotions going, no doubt. But personally, I don't think this was as good as the first book. Maybe the spark wore off, or my expectations were too high? I'm not really sure, but I still think it's worth the read. It may not have been as great as the last book, but it's still good!
 






Sunday 19 July 2015

Blog Tour Hosts Needed!

Currently I'm looking for blog tour hosts for a 14 day blog tour starting on the 24th of August and ending on the 7th of September for the Young Adult book Locket Full of Secrets by Dana Burkey! I will provide you with all tour materials needed including a pdf of the book for those willing to review it. (Pdf can be sent directly to kindles or regular email if requested)

Tour stops available:
Author Spotlights
Interviews
Guest Blogs
Reviews
Vlogs

If you want to participate in this blog tour please send me an email with:
Your blog name and url (if a vlog also include YouTube channel url)
A couple suggested dates you'd prefer during the tour
The type of stop you wish to host
And let me know if you want to review

If you want to review please include what email you wish to have the pdf copy sent to. If to a kindle please add sophia.k.tallon@gmail.com to your approved emails list.

If interested in a guest blog please include an idea or two for the author or just 'author's choice'.

Note: tour giveaway will include 2 signed paperback copies to U.S. residents and 2 ebook copies through kindle to non-U.S. residents.

If you are chosen as a blog tour host you will receive a confirmation email including tour materials as quickly as possible.

Thanks and I look forward to hearing from you!
Sophia Tallon

Guest Post on Bronagh's Beauty and Books!

Today I did a guest post on Bronagh's Beauty and Books! It's called How to Look Flawless Every Day and I talked about my favourite beauty products! Check it out here: http://bronaghsbeautyandbooks.com/2015/07/19/guest-post-how-to-look-flawless-every-day-by-sophia-tallon/

Thursday 16 July 2015

(BOOK) A Clash Of Kings - George R.R. Martin


Finally. A Clash Of Kings by George R.R. Martin.

It's been a month since I've read a book, and this book is certainly the best possible start to a new, psychotic, and obsessive session of reading.

If you haven't read the first book, the next paragraph is for you. A spoiler-free summary. But before I do that, let me tell you that I feel sorry for you. You have been missing out on something great and amazing all this while. You really should rush to a bookstore or to that friend who has this book. Anyways, moving on.

Summers last for decades. So do winters. And when King Robert Baratheon appoints his friend Lord Eddard Stark to the office of the Hand Of The King, a struggle for the Iron Throne begins. The Stark Family is torn apart by unexpected enemies, the treachery at court makes way for an entirely new chain of events, and the vengeance seeking heir of the Targaryen family, who were deposed of the throne claims it. And in order to get back the throne, he gives away his sister to a bunch of ruthless barbarians in exchange for an army. And that gives way to something fascinating.

Now, onto the book of the hour, The sequel.

This book picks up right where the last one ended. This summary of the second book might come as spoilers to the people who didn't read the first book, but I don't care. It's your fault.

Robert’s son, Joffrey Baratheon, is now the King. Robb Stark declares himself the King Of The North. Robert’s brothers, Stannis and Renly all claim the throne of Westeros, and are now a threat to Joffrey. Theon Greyjoy gets to meet his family, and Daenerys Targaryen travels east with her three most prized possessions and her followers travel east in the hope of raising an army strong enough to conquer the seven kingdoms.

I think it is quite evident that I love the first book. Let me tell you, the second one is just as awesome. In some ways, it sets new standards.

The striking feature of the series is the multiple character point-of-view narration. The first book was told in the eyes of eight characters, and this one is told using 9 characters. Obviously, this book is a little more twisted than the first one. The storyline is complicated, and it might become a little difficult to understand what exactly is happening. Also, with the introduction of two new characters to the narration list, the story is developed from the point of two new kingdoms which were not even talked about in the first book. Like in the first book, this works wonders.

Like the first book, this book is also deeply rooted into realism. Every single chapter that talks about war strategies and the war itself is a brilliant example of the realism I so love and hope for in the coming books. The mad, what-the-hell ending of the first book brings about the first mythical part of the story, and it is excellently managed here. To weave something supernatural with a world that closely resembles ours is no small achievement.

Order the books, or go out and get them now. It is not everyday that fantasy books are nothing short of genius.

Rating: 4.5 / 5.

Wednesday 15 July 2015

(AUTHOR INTERVIEW) MaryJo Dawson

Today I will be interviewing the author MaryJo Dawson!


First of all, tell us a little about yourself!
Okay.... mid-west upbringing, oldest of six kids, went to nursing school in Milwaukee in the 'old' days. I'm not kidding.  Have you seen Granite Flats?  That's what nurses used to dress like when I was in training. I've traveled a great deal and lived in the Philippines when the revolution took place there and the Marco' were ousted - you know, where all those jokes came from about all the shoes in the palace?  I don't like hot weather, especially humid hot, so living here at the foothills of the Rockies with its higher elevation and cooler nights suits me fine.  I'm happily married, have 2 sons, a grandson, and some wonderful extended family.


What inspired you to become an author? 
Nothing.  I took the plunge because after spending quite a lot of time
writing a mystery of my own to see if I could, 3 people who read it said they thought it was good enough to publish.


What was the main inspiration for your book?
A love of the old fashioned British mysteries of the mid- twentieth century. I couldn't duplicate those, but wanted to write a good mystery with interesting yet believable main characters.


Who influenced you the most in life?
There is no one person that stands out, there are several.  God has blessed me by putting some people in the right place at the right time. My parents were good people and raised us well. I have a few old chums from snowsuit days that aren't rich and famous but fantastic human beings who have enriched my life.  And so it goes. My husband is a soul mate to me, we are very different but a good match. I've had several great mentors and advisors since entering the world of publishing my books.


What is the kindest thing someone has ever said and or done for you?
Forgiven me when I was foolish, unkind, and plain wrong.


Do you have a favourite author? (Or name a few)
Dorothy Sayers, Josephine Tey, Brock and Bodie Thoene, David McCullough.


What is the best writing advice you have ever received?
Edit, edit, edit.


Do you like to listen to music while you write? If so, who are your favourite artists?
I do not, because inevitably I am listening to the music which in turn leads my mind to wander. I do like music, though, several kinds.  I gravitate toward classical these days.


What helps you write when you're stuck and or have writer's block?
Getting away from the computer.  Taking a walk is good.


After a long day of writing etc, do you have a favourite tv show you like to watch?
No.


What are you working on currently?
Nothing on paper, only thoughts in my head.  I will not start anything else until fall, but focus on marketing the 5 books in the series that are now available.


When you're not writing, or working, what do you like to do?
I Love to hike, so if I'm not around it is likely I'm out on a trail somewhere.  Also rating high is relaxing before the start of the day in my favorite coffee shop, messing with my flowers in the yard, lots of correspondence with family and friends via e-mail, and sometimes puttering in the kitchen.  I make a very moist and delicious chocolate cake. My nursing career has ended, so I've volunteered here and there.... currently at a used bookstore. Our evening routine here is to relax with a favorite old movie or maybe Antiques Roadshow.


What are some of your most favourite books of all time?
The Lord of the Rings trilogy by Tolkien, Truman by David McCullough, and all of the Lord Peter Whimsey books by Dorothy Sayers.  


Which of your characters do you love the most and why?
You know, I think I like Sally, George, and Anne, equally well!  They have all become very dear to me

Which of your books are you most proud of?
So far, probably the 4th, The Truth About Charlie.  That one took the most time and effort to work everything out, and that happened.


What is the title of the last book you read/was it good or bad?
Yesterday I finished The House on the Strand by Du Maurier.  Yes, it could be categorized as a 'good' read.


Is there anything specific you'd like to try writing about in the future?
Not really.  My specific writing goal pertains to quality rather than subject matter.


What is an interesting or hidden talent you have?
As in being a horse whisperer or being able to touch my nose with my tongue?  Nothing has shown itself.

If you could have one super power, what would it be and why would you choose it?
To be able to fall asleep in fifteen seconds flat and sleep for eight hours straight.  The why to that is obvious. Since all of the super powers that most people think of can be so blatantly abused, I don't want them.


Is there anything else you'd like my readers to know?
My Sally Nimitz mysteries are very enjoyable reads for female sleuth mystery lovers who want a little more character development in their stories, and who like variation in the scenarios from book to book.
There are five now, the latest a brand new release, Did Lucy Bedford Have to Die?  There are reviews up on Amazon, Goodreads, and also a few on Smashwords.  They are available in soft cover and ebook formats.


Where can we find you on social media?
I am active on the Amazon cozy author forums, and on Goodreads  Anyone can go to Author Stand on Goodreads to contact me, or find my comments on the Cozy mystery discussion groups. No, I don't do some of the other big social networks, being rather a private person.

Tuesday 14 July 2015

(AUTHOR INTERVIEW) Robyn Bachar

Today I will be interviewing the author Robyn Bachar for a blog tour!

What inspired you to become an author?
According to my mother, I started writing when I was 3 years old and I never stopped. She even kept my first book, an epic tale called “The Sun Hearts” about a group of hearts that floated up to the sun and exploded into sprinkles. (This may have also influenced my choice in day job—I work in a bakery, and I do love sprinkles.)

What author influenced you the most?
I’m inspired by many of the authors that I’ve met as a member of the Romance Writers of America. Everyone is so supportive, and I love hearing their stories. The workshops at conferences and local chapter meetings are also very helpful to improving your craft.

Do you have a favourite author? (Or name a few)
My favorite romance author is Nora Roberts, because she’s made of awesome. I also enjoy Tiffany Reisz, Cathy Pegau, Jordan L. Hawk, K.J. Charles, Sheryl Nantus, Jim C. Hines, Mira Grant/Seanan McGuire, Ann Aguirre, and Steven Brust, to name a few. Really the best way to see what I’m bingeing on is to friend me on Goodreads.

What is the best writing advice you have ever received?
You have to give yourself permission to put garbage on the page, because everything can be fixed later in editing (except for a blank page). A first draft is supposed to be messy, and it’s okay to hate it.

What helps you write when you're stuck or have writer's block?
Brackets. When I’m stuck on a scene I use brackets to denote the problem area, like [put fight scene here] or [add transition later]. That way I can keep moving and come back to the problem area later.

Do you like to listen to music while you write? If so, who are your favourite artists?
I like instrumental music when I’m writing, because anything with lyrics will distract me into singing along. I have a Lindsey Stirling station on Pandora that I like to listen to while editing, or my film score station.

After a long day of writing what is your favourite tv show you like to watch?
I really can’t pick just one. I love cooking shows and home improvement shows.

What are you working on currently?
I’m working on the next book in the Just One Spell series, The Heart of the Oak. It expands on Cordelia and Nathaniel’s story while introducing a romance for Cara, Cordelia’s sister. I am really excited about it.

When you're not writing, what do you like to do?
Walk the dog. It’s good exercise and it’s relaxing—when she’s not chasing after a squirrel.

What are some of your most favourite books of all time?
The Siren by Tiffany Reisz is amazing. I’ve re-read the Three Sisters Island trilogy by Nora Roberts a few times, particularly Dance Upon the Air. I love Jordan L. Hawk’s Whyborne and Griffin series.

Is there anything specific you'd like to try writing about in the future?
I have plans for a new sci-fi series that will allow me to use some of the things I learned while working in a nuclear engineering lab.

Which of your characters do you love the most and why?
Out of all of my series I think that Simon in the Bad Witch books is my favorite. He’s so much fun to torment.

Which one of your books are you most proud of?
Hmm, that’s a hard question. It’s like trying to choose a favorite child. I’m proud of all of my books, but there are a few things in the Cy’ren Rising trilogy that I’m particularly proud of. It’s a fun setting to work with.

What is an interesting or hidden talent you have?
I’m a fantastic singer—in the car, with the windows rolled up.

Is there anything else you'd like my readers to know?
I think the hero in The Sephra’s Tear will appeal to anyone on Team Loki, or who sobbed for Snape. If you love angsty wizards, this book is for you!

Monday 13 July 2015

(AUTHOR INTERVIEW) Koko Brown

Today I will be interviewing the author Koko Brown for a blog tour!

What inspired you to become an author?
I believe all authors were or are voracious readers. I’m one of them and through my passion for books the idea for my first book was hatched.

What author influenced you the most?
I have all of Johanna Lindsey’s books. Even as a teenager, she was an automatic buy for me. She has always had the ability to transport me someplace else, forget all my troubles and dream for the kind of love her heroines tended to find. I want to provide that kind of escape and inspiration for my readers as well.

Do you have a favourite author? (Or name a few)
My favorite authors are Johanna Lindsey, Kresley Cole, Toni Morrison, Lena Matthews and Eve Vaughn.

What is the best writing advice you have ever received?
The best writing advice I ever received is to write the next book. It pays off more than any kind of marketing or promotional campaign you put your money behind.

What helps you write when you're stuck or have writer's block?
I break writer’s block with either music or cracking open a book. Reading someone else’s work instantly sparks my own muse. Unfortunately, what helps me with my own books has also contributed to the loss of one of my favorite hobbies. In that it’s difficult to sit down and read a novel from cover to cover because I’m always putting the book down to write my own stuff.

Do you like to listen to music while you write? If so, who are your favourite artists?
I listen to an eclectic mix of music from Amy Whinehouse and Patsy Cline to Jay-Z and Kendrick Lamar. I tend to lean heavily on Whinehouse and Cline. Their music centers me during pivotal love scenes because it’s so emotional and riddled with angst.

After a long day of writing what is your favourite tv show you like to watch?
Like the music I listen to, my favorite television shows are just as varied. However, I will say all of them are scripted. I loathe reality television. It’s killing our brain cells. Right now, I can’t get enough of Empire, Power, Homeland, Penny Dreadful, The Flash, Vikings and Game of Thrones.

What are you working on currently?
I’m looking to release Player’s Challenge in July, but it’s a re-release that’s been expanded. In early fall, I plan on publishing Her Silver Fox. It’s a December-December romance featuring a more mature couple.  

When you're not writing, what do you like to do?
Whenever I have free time, which is very little, I like to shop in thrift stores and travel. I think I was born with wanderlust. If I could stay on the road and write 365 days of the year, I would. I love discovering new places and experiencing different cultures.

What are some of your most favourite books of all time?
Toni Morrison’s Bluest Eye and Khalil Gilbrand’s The Prophet are two favorite books. I’ve even gone so far as to gift them to friends.

Is there anything specific you'd like to try writing about in the future?
I want to attempt a serial. I know readers hate cliffhangers, but I really want to try my hand at a monthly installment of stories in the same vein as Secret Life of a Call Girl.

Which of your characters do you love the most and why?
I favor my first heroine, Chloe Walker, from Charmed.  Prone to talking smack, she’s the most like me in personality and character. She was independent and strong-willed, but she had a particular weakness for the hero.  We both share this vulnerability when it comes to the opposite sex.  

Which one of your books are you most proud of?
I’m most proud of Charmed. I wrote it in only two weeks. It was also the first book accepted for publication.

What is an interesting or hidden talent you have?
I have absolutely no talent other than ferreting out travel deals.

Is there anything else you'd like my readers to know?
Don’t be afraid to check out my books. They just might find something they like.

(AUTHOR INTERVIEW) Michelle C. Reilly

Today I will be interviewing the author Michelle C. Reilly for a blog tour!

What inspired you to become an author?
I’ve always been an avid reader. The way stories are put together and how they came up with the entire sequence always interested me.

What author influenced you the most?
I have a few—I can never just pick one! That would be crazy! Lol
For romances, Johanna Lindsey was always a great influence.
Robert Ludlum’s Jason Bourne series had a huge impact on me. I love the way he describes his settings and, especially, his fight scenes.
J.K. Rowling left a huge impression on me. Her world opened up my eyes to what could be accomplished in the writing industry.
Diana Gabaldon was the one who got me to write… Waaaayyy back in 1990 I started my first real book. I completed three chapters and shared it with my friends. I never finished the book (though I’m working on it now) and for years my friends begged me for the rest.

Do you have a favourite author? (Or name a few)
If I had to choose just one… J.K. Rowling.

What is the best writing advice you have ever received?
Just write…

What helps you write when you're stuck or have writer's block?
I’ve been lucky enough to never experience writer’s block. I often think (though I could never be certain) the reason for writer’s block is a person tries to force their character to do something the character doesn’t want to do. In ROYALS, Leah went on a little jaunt. I almost stopped her. Almost. Then I decided to let her have the reigns for a while (knowing I’d pull her in eventually). It worked out for the most part. She is very stubborn, though.

Do you like to listen to music while you write? If so, who are your favourite artists?
I actually listen to brown noise. It makes me completely focus. However, listening to music helps to flush a story or character out. In fact, it was the song “The Wizard” by Black Sabbath that suddenly brought Auden, the Anathergian king, to life.

After a long day of writing what is your favourite tv show you like to watch?
Ohhhh, I have so many! Let’s see… It could be “Supernatural,” “Outlander,” “The Flash,” “Arrow,” or even “Game of Thrones.” Right now I’m on a “Daredevil” kick… I’m on my fourth time watching the first season. I love it!

What are you working on currently?
I’ve started research on the book I mentioned earlier. It’s a time travel romance. I’ve also started on the next books in the Anathergians Saga, which is the YA stories for Ceadan. I can’t wait to have them done. They’re going to be great!

When you're not writing, what do you like to do?
I have a very hard time doing nothing. It drives me mad! I love going to the movies or out to eat (which is very bad for me!). Traveling is always fun and I’ll go see some live bands.

What are some of your most favourite books of all time?
There are so many! All of the Harry Potter books, of course. “Outlander,” will always be a favorite of mine. One book I always think about is “Last of the Breed,” by Louis L’amour. What a great story!

Is there anything specific you'd like to try writing about in the future?
Since I’m former military, I plan on writing some military-related romances. In fact, I leave at the end of this week to research some places where these people live. Ha! As if they’re real! In my mind, they are!

Which of your characters do you love the most and why?
That’s a tough question. The characters, to me, are real people. But the one that really pulls at my heartstrings is Ceadan, Leah’s young brother. For the character I’m most attracted to, it would be Gunner, the Anathergian warrior and IT guru. In my mind, I see totally him as Taylor Kitsch!

Which one of your books are you most proud of?
My first book, VARIANTS, the Anathergians Trilogy, Book 1. It was a huge leap of faith for me to put that out there. It had been in my mind for so long. But I’m also very proud of ROYALS, the third book in the trilogy. It was a huge feat. I did it! I completed the trilogy. It was an incredible challenge.

What is an interesting or hidden talent you have?
I’ve been a web developer for many years. I’ve also done graphics for a long time.

Is there anything else you'd like my readers to know?
I am so very thankful to each and every person who reads my books. I know that, when you get one, you’re investing some of your time into my story. It’s a big deal. A huge deal! So, I’d just like to say thank you, thank you, thank you! To every single one of you!

Friday 10 July 2015

(AUTHOR INTERVIEW) Amanda J. Greene

Today I will be interviewing the author Amanda J. Greene for a blog tour!

What inspired you to become an author?

When I was young, I enjoyed making up stories. I’d design elaborate worlds and backstories when I played with my Babies - Yes, I was a Barbie girl once upon a time. I started writing when I was in middle school, which is when I read my first vampire novel. I became obsessed with the paranormal genre and my imagination has been running wild ever since.


Do you have a favourite author? (Or name a few)

Oh, there are TOO MANY!
In no particular order, my go to authors are: Kresley Cole, Gena Showlater, Johanna Lindsey, Maya Banks, and Larissa Ione.


What helps you write when you're stuck or have writer's block?

Fortunately, I rarely suffer from writer’s block, but when I’m having a difficult time transitioning the storyline or developing the plot or characters further I like to be some place quite. I may play some music or put on the sound of rain, but keep the volume low. I like to sit with a cup of coffee or tea and brainstorm with a pen and paper. The story seems to flow more freely when I’m writing by hand. However, once I sit down with my laptop and start typing there is no stopping until either my caffeine high has worn off or my husband notices I haven’t slept in 24+ hours. Writing can be addicting.

Do you like to listen to music while you write? If so, who are your favourite artists?

I generally play Pandora when I write. I have a fee different stations I flip between. The kind of music I listen to depends upon what mood I’m trying to set within the book. My most used Pandora stations are: Tech N9ne, Shinedown, Classic Rock, and Love Songs.
I find music very inspirational. Most of my characters have developed from songs I’ve heard while driving. I’m on the road a lot, just me, my music, and my crazy imagination. I must thank Tech N9ne and fellow members of Strange Music for all the inspiration they have given me. Their work has had the most impact on my writing.

What are you working on currently?

I’m juggling a few different projects right now.  It is so hard to pick one group of characters to focus on. My next release, Caressed by the Edge of Darkness (Rulers of Darkness #5) is coming along nicely. It is set to release this coming winter. I also have been working on something entirely new, Passion’s Prey. I haven’t decided if Passion’s Prey will be a standalone or a trilogy. Either way, it is going to great. I absolutely love the characters and their world and I’m anxious to share them with readers.


Is there anything specific you'd like to try writing about in the future?

Thus far, my work has been strong based in the paranormal romance realm, which I love! Paranormal romance is my favorite genre to read. But I have thought about writing historical romance or even trying my hand at military romance. I come from a military family and my husband, as luck would have it, is active duty military. There are so many real life romances that I witness every day and I can’t help but to be inspired them.


Which of your characters do you love the most and why?

Don’t tell the other Rulers of Darkness, but my favorite character so far is Hadrian from Caressed by a Crimson Moon (Rulers of Darkness #3). He is dark, brooding, handsome, and the definition of tortured hero. I’m madly in love with tortured heroes that are, at times, anti-heroes.

Thursday 9 July 2015

(BRONAGH'S GUEST POST) Review of Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell



Hello Everyone!
I'm Bronagh from Bronagh's Beauty and Books over at - http://www.bronaghsbeautyandbooks.com ! Today I doing a small little book review for the lovely Sophia!

Today I'm going to be talking to you all about my new favourite book - Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell (Who's name I adore).

I recently finished this book, and I must say its now firmly in my top 10 favourite books!
Fangirl is firmly placed in Young Adult Literature and I would say it may even verge into a young adult romance novel.
You can check it out for yourself here on Goodreads. (http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16068905-fangirl)

This book features around Cath, who is one half of a twinship. She and her twin Wren, are moving off to college/university and going down two completely different paths, Wren is out meeting boys, drinking, and pretty much just being as social as she can during her time at college. Whereas Cath is the complete opposite. She likes to stay in and write fanfiction.

I'm sure you are all familiar with what Fan fiction is, but for anyone who isn't - Fan Fiction is re-writing a story already published. There are hundreds of people who write fanfiction out there, and many more who read it (myself included). In the book, Cath writes fan fiction about a book series featuring Simon Snow by Gemma T. Leslie, which is a pen name for Rainbow Rowell wrote. She used to write this with Wren until recently, and now she writes it on her own.

This book starts with both of the girls moving into their dorms at the university.
The book is set in Cath's point of view, so everything is said and done by Cath. 

At the start, you can already see the major differences between the girls; Wren has spent the summer getting to know her room mate, whereas Cath would rather be housed alone.

When Cath gets to her room, we get the first glimpse at two other pretty awesome characters in this book, Regan, her room mate and Levi.

Over time both of these characters build in importance, but at first, they seem to be shrugged off due to Cath's lack of interest in them. After she's moved all of her stuff in, she goes out to eat with her dad, and then says good bye to him before he leaves.

The first part of the book, really revolves around Cath's adaptation to college life. Having to fend for herself finding out where she can eat, getting to her classes and of course, forming those close friendships you can only make at College. The only problem? Cath doesn't want to make friends, socialise or find the canteen. She had brought along a heft supply of protein bars and peanut butter to do her for as long as possible so she wouldn't have to face the canteen, she also avoided socialising in class.

She does eventually befriend a boy named Nick in her Entry to creative writing class. At the front og the book, we have a few illustrations of the characters, and he is listed there, which hints that he may become very important in the story. Also in this image are; Regan, Cath, Wren, Levi and Courtney.


All of the characters pictured are all very central to this story.
Cather (Cath) is the protagonist and the main character of the story.
Levi is the main love interest in the story, which has some awesome twists
Regan is Cath's roommate, who starts off as a bit of an ass, but you grow to love her
Nick is who I originally thought would be the love interest as he and Cath grew close, but he just turns out to be a pretty awesome friend!
Courtney is Wrens roommate. She pops up in most scenes that involve Wren.
Wren is Cath's twin sister, so she is very central to the story.

Throughout the book there are a lot of ups and downs, and things that make you feel a whole lot of feelings.

If you enjoy YA Books with a little bit of romance sprinkled in alongside a coming of age story, then this is the book for you!

If you want to get to know me better, feel free to check out my blog - bronaghsbeautyandbooks.com where you can find links to all of my many social media sites! Thank you again to Sophia for letting me guest post on her blog, and hope you guys have loved this as much as I have!