Blog Tour: Stone of Darkness

Today we have the brilliant author Resa Nelson on the blog for her blog tour of Book 3 in the Dragonslayer series. Fantasy is something we both love, so this fits perfectly on the blog. So, without further delay, let's get the interview started!

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Describe your series? What genre would you classify it into?

I guess it’s epic fantasy, but I also blend genres.  I strive to write page turners, because I don’t want my readers to get bored.  There’s usually some type of mystery going on, and sometimes it leans toward the mystery/thriller genre.  My books can get pretty dark, so I also strive to throw in as much humor as possible to give my books some balance.

How did you come up with the idea for the series? 

Many years ago I was propositioned by a co-worker (a married man with two young children).  Like a lot of writers, I write to work through my problems.  So I wrote a short story about a female blacksmith who makes swords for dragonslayers.  When a new dragonslayer propositions her, she doesn’t know what to do because if she doesn’t keep his weapons in good working order then his inability to fight dragons can place all her friends and neighbours at risk.  When the story was published there was a huge reader response, which made me think about turning it into a novel.  It took me 8 years to figure out how to do that.  And once I started writing the novel, I realized the story and the world I had created were much bigger than I’d first imagined.  So by the time I finished writing Book 1, I pretty much had the whole series in my head.

I am a Blogger, and I am pissed #3

I've written two posts on this topic previously, and both of them have been received just as I had hoped for. I've had most authors agree, and I hope accept some of these 'mistakes' they make while interacting with bloggers. Both the previous posts resulted in a lot of comments and discussions here on the blog, as well as on a number of Facebook author groups. I was actually surprised to see how receptive these posts have been. Don't get me wrong, I did get a few reactions I had expected in the beginning. A few authors argued that I had no right to point these out, or that bloggers were worse or at least just as guilty. I had a couple of authors post counter arguments to my points in the previous two posts, and I loved that. They were gracious and did not try to bash me. Each post was extremely respectful. For all of this, I am extremely grateful.

If you'd like to take a look at the previous two posts, head over to check out post number one and post number two. And to read the author reactions to my posts, check out the replies by author Natalie Star to post one and author Tara Chevrestt to post two. With that out of the way, let's get to the third and final post in the series.

11. Twitter: There are tons of authors and bloggers on twitter. But, there is a dearth of authors (and bloggers) who treat twitter for what it is, a NETWORKING tool. Most just consider it a marketing platform. This makes them do things which get on my nerves sometimes! All I see is links, links and more links! And then there are other things. First, I will not check DMs on twitter as I mostly get spam there. And don’t even get me started on auto-DMs! If I do somehow stumble onto your DM and I see a link requesting me to check out your book on Amazon, subscribe to your blog, or ‘Like’ your author page on Facebook, I will delete it without doing any of those things. I might even unfollow you and, if you still don’t get the message, I might just go ahead and block you. Using the @mention feature is just the same, so doing that does not get you off the hook. Want me to consider your book or your links? Want me to do an interview or feature you on my blog?  Then talk to me, get to know me better, interact with me, comment on my content, if you like something RT it. And, after you do all this, go read point number one again in post number one (Read the Review Policy).

Review: Dark Awakening

Dark Awakening [Cursed in Darkness #3]
By Natalie Hancock

Cursed in Darkness Series:
Eternal Darkness #1 - See my review
Dark Shadows #2 - See my review
Dark Awakening #3

From Goodreads:

In the hundred acres of land, more security and more people are watching Layla’s back now that everyone knows who she is. Layla wants to find the person responsible for the attacks made at her, just like everyone else, but when an attack happens to someone other than her, she and Nikalye are the only ones who know the truth. They are determined to find the culprit once and for all, before someone else is seriously injured.

Layla wishes she could tell Shade everything. He knows something is not right more than he can make her gasp with pleasure by just saying her name, but she cannot tell him—she will not risk putting him in danger any more than she has. She continuously fights for survival to keep herself and those around her alive, but when more things sinister arrive in the hundred acres of land and the culprit is revealed, the situation turns from bad to deadly.

Will Layla be able to survive?

Buy on: Amazon

Oh my soul!! Dark Awakening is by far (for me personally) the best book in the series! I have no words, totally dumbstruck. Just when you think you have it all figured out, Natalie throws this major curve ball – like ‘in your face’. Brilliant writing and a brilliant story line.

I am a blogger, and I am pissed! #2

The first post in the series got a lot of comments and interactions. If you've not read the first post, you can check it out here. After going through all the reactions, as well as reading through and participating in discussions about the first post on a number of groups, I'd like to clarify something here. These posts are in no way a generalization, and I am definitely NOT saying that most authors are like this. It is a few who are doing these things, and many more who may be unaware how irksome these things are to bloggers.

My only hope here is that, authors can read these posts, and just learn something which may help in creating better relations between bloggers and authors. So, let's continue!

6. Put out a good book: I’ve read so many books with a great story that were in desperate need of an editor. Spelling mistakes, bad grammar, wrong usage of words, plot holes, missing words, bad formatting, you name it. I know good editors are costly and not every author can afford one. But, in that case get good beta readers, alpha readers or any readers to help you spot mistakes you can’t find. I really do hate giving a good book a bad rating. Another thing authors could do to make a great book would be to get a professional cover designer if they can’t do a great cover themselves. That is why I always ask for a book cover along with a review request. There have been so many books I have seen and ignored because of bad covers. I’ll never know if I missed reading a great book because of this. 

~Alexia: Ditto! I’m a cover whore! If the cover doesn’t attract my attention I usually don’t read the synopsis or for that matter the book.

Blog Tour: Determinant

Welcome to the 2nd last stop of the Determinant Blog Tour. Here you will find the synopsis of Determinant (The Guardians of Vesturon #3), my ARC review, an excerpt, author bio and giveaway! Amazing prizes to be won - a Kindle Touch, Determinant (e-book) and Ressurection (e-book)!!

Title: Determinant [The Guardians of Vesturon #3]

Author: A.M. Hargrove

Genre: Young Adult Paranormal Romance (with a sci-fi element)

Heat: Hot

Series: The Guardians of Vesturon - see here

Survival #1 - see here

Resurrection #2 - see here
Determinant #3

Beginnings: Prequel #0.1 - see here

Synopsis:

January St. Davis, on her own since the age of sixteen and struggling to stay in college, thinks she's scored in a major way when she lands a paid summer internship at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta. One evening, after working an especially long shift, a chance encounter with a group of mysterious men alters the course of her life.

Rykerian Yarrister, a Guardian of Vesturon with unearthly powers and impossibly gorgeous looks, finds himself at odds over the human female he recently saved from certain death. When it seems he is on the verge of winning her over, she is ripped from his hands by a strange and powerful being, threatening to destroy her if his demands are not met.

Do Rykerian and the Guardians have the ability to meet this fierce barbarian's ultimatums, or will January suffer a horrid demise?

Amazon e-book |  Amazon UK  |  Smashwords |  Barnes & Noble  |  iTunes

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Sunday Post #8

The Sunday Post is hosted by Kimba the Caffeinated Book Reviewer.

Inspired by the meme, In My Mailbox - it's a chance to share news. A post to recap the past week, showcase books, things we have received and share news about what is coming up for the week on our blog.

So let's get started :)

This week has been quiet-ish on the blog, as we both had hectic schedules work wise... here is what went down.

Monday, 23 July

Cover reveal of Genesis (Elemental Enmity Series #3) by Christie Rich

Sneak peak - In this post you'll find the cover for Genesis, book blurp and author bio. See cover here

Feature & Follow Friday #13

Hi peeps…

If you are new to the #FF fun, Feature & Follow is a blog hop that expands your blog following by a joint effort between bloggers.

Feature & Follow is hosted by Rachel of Parajunkee and Alison of Alison Can Read.

Ok, so here’s how it works… Leave a comment on this post so that I can follow you back.

WINNERS: Emerald Dragon Character Contest

On Sunday, 1 July we posted about a contest... Create a character for 'The Emerald Dragon'! We received many entries and Solitaire Parke has chosen the two winners! 

Guest Post: Pinterest = Fun Social Media

Pinterest = Fun Social Media

by Terra Harmony

Of all the social media sites out there, the one I find most enjoyable is Pinterest. Here are the deets:

What is it: Images galore. Think of a digital pin-up board where you can post pictures and videos. Under your account, you can create different boards with different interests. This website is huge for fashion, travel, and foodies. 

Why do it: Currently, over 10 million people are using Pinterest. Some tout Pinterest as the fastest growing standalone website ever.  Users spend more time on Pinterest (average of 15 minutes per visit) than they do on Facebook (average of 12 minutes per visit) or Twitter (3 minutes). 

How: You can repin images you like or add your own. All images link back to the source, so there aren't any copyright issues (at least not that I know of). You can also 'like' pins and comment on pins. Choose other boards or people to follow.  

Cover Reveal: Genesis

Christie Rich's 3rd book in her Elemental Enmity Series will be available July 27th. In this post I will reveal the cover for Genesis, the synopsis and author bio. So here it is...

Genesis [Elemental Enmity #3]
by Christie Rich

Elemental Enmity Series:
Five #1 - see my review
Dark Matter #2 - see my review
Genesis #3

Synopsis:

Having just escaped the nefarious plans of the Order, Rayla Tate thinks all she has to do now is rescue her family and sort through her feelings, but bonding with five men might just be her undoing.  Not only does she have to deal with all of them reading her mind, Tabitha informs Rayla that she must choose a bondmate before she will be allowed to venture into the mortal realm to save those she loves most.

She has three weeks to get to know each lord, but her journey turns into far more than a simple choice of the heart.  Rayla comes face to face with the underhanded dealings of the fae political system where good is a matter of taste and evil lurks under beautiful shells.  Long held judgments crumble when she discovers the heart beneath the men she has come to count on.  Rayla must overcome long held fears, discover the truth behind the creatures of the dark realms, and conquer her greatest weakness before she can take her place as the new queen of the fae.

However, her world crumbles when she discovers following her heart’s desire might just mean the destruction of the world.  Will Rayla have the courage to choose the man who has risked everything to win her, or will she succumb to the manipulations of the fae council and those who would use her power for evil?

One choice:  five men.  The stakes have never been higher, but which one will prevail? 

Sunday Post #7

The Sunday Post is hosted by Kimba the Caffeinated Book Reviewer.

Inspired by the meme, In My Mailbox - it's a chance to share news. A post to recap the past week, showcase books, things we have received and share news about what is coming up for the week on our blog.

So let's get started :)

We've had a great week on the blog! Here's what went down...

Monday, 16 July

Ritesh and I received a blog award from Martina Bookaholic. Ritesh was super busy, so I answered the questions :)

Sneak peak - The Booker Award: I had to list 5 of my fave books, 5 fabulous moments, 5 things I love, 5 things I dislike and nominate 5 people for the award. See my answers here

Feature & Follow Friday #12

Hi peeps…

If you are new to the #FF fun, Feature & Follow is a blog hop that expands your blog following by a joint effort between bloggers.

Feature & Follow is hosted by Rachel of Parajunkee and Alison of Alison Can Read.

Ok, so here’s how it works… Leave a comment on this post so that I can follow you back.

Blogger Interview and Birthday Party: Alexia Smit

It is a very special occasion today as it is Alexia's birthday, so we're having a party here at Alexia's Chronicles. I decided to invite a few of Alexia's friends over for the party. I will also be asking Alexia a few questions, so everyone can get to know Alexia a bit better.

Let me first introduce Alexia's friends who've dropped in for the party. There'll be more friends joining in throughout the day!

Ritesh: That's me, of course, and I hope everyone has gotten to know me a bit better now that I hang around the blog a lot, and you can see some of my posts and reviews. I can't believe I have known Alexia only for a few months. I can truly say that she has become my best friend, even though I've never met her in person. She is an amazingly strong willed person, who'd do anything for her friends. Also, she is awesome, did you know that she has a karate black belt? Yeah that is Alexia, tough exterior, and mushy heart.

Review: Dark Shadows

Dark Shadows [Cursed in Darkness #2]
By Natalie Hancock

Cursed in Darkness Series:
Eternal Darkness #1 - See my review
Dark Shadows #2
Dark Awakening #3

From Goodreads:

Layla is incredibly weak from serious wounds after the attack and the hunger raging inside of her does not help. When Shade tempts her, with not just his body, but with his blood also, Layla struggles harder than ever. As much as she wants his blood pouring into her mouth while he takes her, she cannot do it. Her secret, her hidden identity will get out—and that she cannot handle.

Layla tries to continue to live her life as normal, however, things turn bad when Layla and Nikalye discover something and Layla has to fight for her life, putting everyone in serious danger.

Layla is on the lookout now, and the only distraction is Shade. When he speaks, when he breathes down her neck and touches her, she cannot remember anything but him. When they get intimate, it is all she can do to keep herself breathing as he pleasures her. She cannot understand how they both react so strongly with each other, but she does not care.

Yet she feels as though something is going to go horribly wrong, not with Shade and herself, but something else, something bigger…and she is not wrong.

It is worse than before and Layla has no choice now but to reveal who she really is, and risk everyone hating her for the rest of her time in the academy.

What is her secret?

Buy on: Amazon

So Natalie Hancock did it again... murdered my poor brain. Never before have I been so confuckulated by a plot. Once I figured out what the hell was going on, everything fell into place! Fabulous! Love love love book 2 in this series.

In Dark Shadows Layla has come out of her shell a bit more. She's opened up to some of her fellow students at the Academy. She has friends and life seems just a tad better on that front... she isn't that much of a loner anymore. This chick has been handed some major 'make or break' moments and she just breezed through it all with her head held high. Layla is awe-inspiring!!

Guest Post & Giveaway: The origin of The Guardians of Vesturon

The origin of The Guardians of Vesturon

By A.M. Hargrove

I love vampires, witches, werewolves and anything supernatural.  You name it, I’m one hundred percent in.  I can’t seem to get enough of any of them, so you can only imagine my excitement when all things paranormal began to surge and gain in popularity.  Somehow, I managed to have a daughter that *sigh* hates all things supernatural.  I still shake my head over that one (and oftentimes vigorously scratch it).  When I decided to try my hand at writing my first book, I plundered my brain for ideas that would appeal to both of us and hence, the Guardians of Vesturon were created.

I also love sci-fi.  She *sigh again* does not.  You may now be asking yourself, “What does she like?”  I’m still trying to figure that one out.  When I began writing Survival, Book 1 of The Guardians of Vesturon, I really wanted a blend of everything, minus vampires and werewolves.  I didn’t want strict paranormal or sci-fi either.  So the series tends to straddle the line.  There is a tendency for sci-fi, obviously, with the Guardians since they are otherworldly.  But it’s light sci-fi.  They are gifted with serious paranormal powers, such as telepathy and mind reading, for example.  There is a group of people on Earth they are connected with that have mystical/paranormal powers as well.  Though the books enter the sci-fi realm a bit, they are not high tech sci-fi to the point of turning a non-sci-fi lover off.  In other words, I don’t leap into the world of quantum physics and take you on a fifty page dissertation of trying to explain how that could possibly fit into my story.  The most intense form of tech you’ll ever see is my usage of the string theory in explaining the ability to travel faster than the speed of light.  Every now and then I might throw in an awful looking creature, but for the most part, my aliens are swoon-worthy, and easy on the eyes *wink*.

Award: The Booker Award

Ritesh and I received THE BOOKER AWARD from the fabulous Martina at Martina Bookaholic :) I met Tina in one of the groups on Goodreads and we helped each other out with blogging tips!

I will be answering the questions for this award as Ritesh is super busy today.  Thank you Tina!

List your 5 favourite books:
1.  A Hunger Like No Other by Kresley Cole
2.  Wicked Deeds on a Winters Night by Kresley Cole
3.  Demon from the Dark by Kresley Cole
4.  Charley Davidson Series by Darynda Jones
5.  Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead
     (there are many more, but I'm only allowed to list 5)

Sunday Post #6

The Sunday Post is hosted by Kimba the Caffeinated Book Reviewer.

Inspired by the meme, In My Mailbox - it's a chance to share news. A post to recap the past week, showcase books, things we have received and share news about what is coming up for the week on our blog.

So let's get started :)

This week has been chilled out... not too much happening on the blog, but we did have a post done by Ritesh which was a big hit as well as an interview with an author.

Tuesday, 10 July

Blog post by Ritesh - I am a Blogger and I am Pissed! #1

Sneak peak - "There have been some authors that have royally pissed me off with their attitudes. Having talked to other bloggers, I now realize that this is not a problem which is faced by me only. So, I am going to vent a little. I hope all authors read this and take something away from it. I am definitely not 'attacking' authors as a whole, just positive criticism." This is a 3 part series, so be sure to come back and check it out :) Read post here

Feature & Follow Friday #11

Hi peeps…

If you are new to the #FF fun, Feature & Follow is a blog hop that expands your blog following by a joint effort between bloggers.

Feature & Follow is hosted by Rachel of Parajunkee and Alison of Alison Can Read.

Ok, so here’s how it works… Leave a comment on this post so that I can follow you back.

For more details regarding Feature and Follow have a look at the following websites -

Parajunkee

Alison Can Read

Make sure to follow back if someone follows you! Let’s start spreading some blogger love…

Interview & Giveaway: Marsha A. Moore

Today, we'd like to welcome author Marsha A. Moore to the blog. Marsha's books are a combination of fantasy and romance, so both Alexia and I have something to look forward to, in them! Marsha has also graciously agreed to giveaway one e-book copy of her Seeking a Scribe: Enchanted Legend One book to a lucky winner. Remember to enter the giveaway at the end of the interview! 

So, let's get started!

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Describe your series? What genre would you classify it into? Is it more romance or more fantasy?

The Enchanted Bookstore Legends are about Lyra McCauley, a woman destined to become one of five strong women in her family who possess unique magical abilities and serve as Scribes in Dragonspeir. The Scribes span a long history, dating from 1200 to present day. Each Scribe is expected to journey through Dragonspeir, both the good and evil factions, then draft a written account. Each book contains magic with vast implications. 

Lyra was first introduced to Dragonspeir as a young girl, when she met the high sorcerer, Cullen Drake, through a gift of one of those enchanted books. Using its magic, he escorted her into the parallel world of Dragonspeir. Years later, she lost that volume and forgot the world and Cullen. These legends begin where he finds her again—she is thirty-five, standing in his enchanted bookstore, and Dragonspeir needs her.  

When Lyra reopens that enchanted book, she confronts a series of quests where she is expected to save the good Alliance from destruction by the evil Black Dragon. While learning about her role, Lyra and Cullen fall in love. He is 220 years old and kept alive by Dragonspeir magic. Cullen will die if Dragonspeir is taken over by the evil faction…Lyra becomes the Scribe. 

The genre is fantasy romance, weighted more toward fantasy since there is a lot of complex adventure. 

How do you come up with the idea for the series? 

The Enchanted Bookstore Legends are basically a fantasy lover’s dream, being able to step into a favorite book as a character. I know my initial inspiration came after watching the recent Tim Burton Alice in Wonderland movie. From that, I wanted to work with parallel worlds and have a heroine who must save the fantasy world from danger. But, I wanted it to be more adult in order to deal with more complex feelings. Beyond that, I just see fantasy stories all around me. It comes naturally.

I am a blogger, and I am pissed! #1

I have been blogging for the past 8 months, and I am surprised at the rate at which my now dormant blog Ritesh Kala’s Book Reviews and my current blog home, Alexia's Chronicles has become known to authors. I have had some authors virtually steal my heart by how they've approached me for a book review, guest post, interview or blog tour, always gracious and understanding and not being pushy.

Having said that… there have been some that have royally pissed me off with their attitudes. Having talked to other bloggers, I now realize that this is not a problem which is faced by me only. So, I am going to vent a little. I hope all authors read this and take something away from it. I am definitely not ‘attacking’ authors as a whole, just positive criticism. This is going to be (at least) a three-part series, so be sure to come back! 

Sunday Post #5

The Sunday Post is hosted by Kimba the Caffeinated Book Reviewer.

Inspired by the meme, In My Mailbox - it's a chance to share news. A post to recap the past week, showcase books, things we have received and share news about what is coming up for the week on our blog.

So let's get started :)

Pretty hectic week! Ritesh has been AH-MAZING for the blog and myself this week, I've had some personal issues to sort out and still sorting out *sighs*... when will it end? lol Any who, he's been fabulous with the work load and extremely supportive :) So without further ado, here's what has been happening on AC as well as next weeks schedule...

Monday, 2 July

Ritesh did a review on Farsighted by Emlyn Chand

Sneak peak - "I was really intrigued by Farsighted, as this is the first book I have come across which is written from a blind guy’s perspective. I think the author has done a commendable job in writing this book in first-person, which is no small task." Read his review here

Feature & Follow Friday #10

Hi peeps…

If you are new to the #FF fun, Feature & Follow is a blog hop that expands your blog following by a joint effort between bloggers.

Feature & Follow is hosted by Rachel of Parajunkee and Alison of Alison Can Read.

Ok, so here’s how it works… Leave a comment on this post so that I can follow you back.



For more details regarding Feature and Follow have a look at the following websites -
Parajunkee
Alison Can Read

Make sure to follow back if someone follows you! Let’s start spreading some blogger love…

Interview: Emlyn Chand

Today. we have author Emlyn Chand on the blog. She is the author of the Farsighted series, and has two books in the five-book series out. I met Emlyn on Facebook, and I can truly say that I consider her to be a friend. I have read both the books and have reviewed the first book here. I was extremely happy that Emlyn accepted my invitation to come to the blog, as her books have left me with so many questions to which I hope to get some answers today!

So, I'll cut my ramblings short and get started with the interview! This is going to be awesome!

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Describe your series? What genre would you classify it into?

The Farsighted series on the whole is YA. Since the main characters possess psychic gifts, you might class it as paranormal—but it’s also kind of anti-paranormal. The main focus is on the characters themselves, their teenaged struggles, and the burden having such powers has placed on them in the real world. Each book has overtones of a different sub-genre. The first, Farsighted, is more paranormal than the rest; Open Heart is more romantic; Pitch will be more suspenseful; Vertigo will be a mystery, and the final book, Refrain, will be more literary.

The idea of a group of people having special powers is not really something new. How is your series different?

Farsighted is different because it’s so strongly rooted in the real world. The characters are not defined by their powers and the powers are not just cool fun things to play with. There’s also no government agency or corporation conspiring to use the gifted teens for evil ends.

Ritesh: Emlyn, was that aimed at me?

Review: Eternal Darkness

Eternal Darkness [Cursed in Darkness #1]

By Natalie Hancock

Cursed in Darkness Series:
Eternal Darkness #1
Dark Shadows #2
Dark Awakening #3

From Goodreads:

Layla, a twenty-one-year-old half-breed known as a dhampir, is incredibly beautiful and deadly. She drinks vampire blood for power and to stop the burning hunger.

The vampire academy is a hundred acres of land surrounded by high tech security to ensure that none enter or leave. She is the protection.

When she has lessons with the vampires, she struggles with her hunger and has to learn to trust them—a big issue for Layla because of her past, something she can neither forget nor run from. The past that haunts her dreams reminds her that she cannot hide as she lives her life in the academy.

Then there is Shade—an impossibly handsome vampire and Layla’s one-on-one instructor. Desires she never knew rise whenever he looks at her. She cannot stop how her body reacts to his touch or how much she wants his body and his blood.

It is a forbidden lust that they share, one they must keep a secret from those around them or Layla risks everyone finding out who she really is.

Someone wants her dead. Layla’s goals, deal with the vampires who hate dhampir’s and keep herself alive. Can she do it?

Buy on: Amazon

So I have absolutely no idea where to start with this review... my mind is a jumbled mess. It's like author Natalie Hancock gnawed chewed on my mind and spat it out. (I know, gross way of describing it, but that's all my blond brain can think of right now.)

Ok, so lets start with the cover... aaaand cue the "OMG's... OOOH's... AAAAH's"! I can stare at that cover all day long. So purrrdy!

Eternal Darkness is similar to Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead (don't get me wrong - I'm NOT comparing books)... if you like VA you'll most probably enjoy this novel! Although, Eternal Darkness is more "adult" ;)

Guest Post: Intersection of Science Fiction and Fantasy

The Intersection of Science Fiction and Fantasy

by Emily Mah

I don’t mean to be obnoxious as I begin this post, but to be honest, the first time I ever participated in a discussion of science fiction versus fantasy and how the genres relate to one another was at the Jack Williamson Lectureship in Portales, New Mexico. What’s obnoxious about that? Well, the panel discussion was between Jack Williamson, Fred Pohl, and Robert Silverberg and was moderated by Connie Willis. All four were or have since become SFWA Grand Masters, so I think they were well qualified to share their opinions on the subject. THe specific question put before them was how science fiction differs from fantasy, which is slightly different than what I’ve been asked, but it’s a good place to start.

Some would argue that the only difference between science fiction and fantasy is feel. Science fiction has rivets and fantasy has unicorns. Both genres require the writer to make up an internally consistent rule system for what is an alternate universe. A science fiction writer has to decide what technology allows and disallows the characters to do. A fantasy author must make an internally consistent magic system. While it may seem flippant to say that this is the only difference, there is more to this contention than people realize.

Review: Farsighted

Farsighted [Farsighted #1]
by Emlyn Chand

Farsighted Series:
Farsighted #1
Openheart #2

From Goodreads:

Alex Kosmitoras's life has never been easy. The only other student who will talk to him is the school bully, his parents are dead broke and insanely overprotective, and to complicate matters even more, he's blind. Just when he thinks he'll never have a shot at a normal life, an enticing new girl comes to their small Midwest town all the way from India. Simmi is smart, nice, and actually wants to be friends with Alex. Plus she smells like an Almond Joy bar. Sophomore year might not be so bad after all. 

Unfortunately, Alex is in store for another new arrival—an unexpected and often embarrassing ability to "see" the future. Try as he may, Alex is unable to ignore his visions, especially when they suggest Simmi is in mortal danger. With the help of the mysterious psychic next door and friends who come bearing gifts of their own, Alex embarks on his journey to change the future.

Buy on: Amazon for: Kindle |   Paperback

I was really intrigued by Farsighted, as this is the first book I have come across which is written from a blind guy’s perspective. I think the author has done a commendable job in writing this book in first-person, which is no small task. She has been careful to give us all the information of Alex’s surroundings through senses other than sight. So, we get to know how things feel or how they sound or smell. Also, the fact that he can ‘see’ into the future was really interesting.

The book revolves around a group of teenagers with special abilities like being able look into the future, affect people’s feelings by a mere touch, read people’s minds and being able to communicate with the dead. This idea is not really new. When I first started reading the story, the first thing that came to my mind was the American TV program Heroes. I am hoping that as the series progresses, we get something much better than that!

Sunday Post #4

The Sunday Post is hosted by Kimba the Caffeinated Book Reviewer.

Inspired by the meme, In My Mailbox - it's a chance to share news. A post to recap the past week, showcase books, things we have received and share news about what is coming up for the week on our blog.

So let's get started :)

WOW! Last week was hectic and this week has been choco-block full as well. Let's see what has been happening and what is to come...

Monday, 25 June

I announced the winners for our New Design Launch Giveaway!

Sneak peak - "What have you guys thought of the way things have been going here? Fun, interesting or so boring that sticking needles in your eyes is way more exciting?? Any suggestions?" See winners here

Ritesh did an ARC review on Kiwi and the Serpent of the Isle by Vickie Johnstone on his own blog because this specific novel/series doesn't fit into AC's review genre... we can't have the kinky and children's books mixing lol :) See his review here

Create a character for 'The Emerald Dragon' Contest

We had recently interviewed author Solitaire Parke on the blog. Go check out the awesome interview! Today, Solitaire has agreed to hold an amazing giveaway on the blog. I can say that this is the first time I have ever come across such a giveaway, and believe me, I have entered tons of them!

So what is so special about this giveaway? Solitaire is giving two winners a chance to be immortalized by naming one of the characters in his books. This is correct, you get bragging rights to the character and his dragon's names, origins, species, color and more! Wait, there is more! You get a dedication on the series' website and best of all, you get a signed copy of the book when it is released.

Now tell me whether I was right or not? Isn't this the best contest ever?! So what are you waiting for? Put on your thinking hats and get cracking!

“The Emerald Dragon” Character Contest Guidelines:

We suggest reading the current chapters available on Solitaire Parke’s blog to familiarize yourself with the existing characters. Not all of the existing characters come from Earth, so it will give you an idea of the different species and where the story is going. Based on that, to enter the contest, what you would need to comment with is: 

1. Dragon rider Name and Origin – the character you create needs to be a protagonist and/or beneficial to Mount Drago. Definitely no bad guys please. All of the names need to fit within the story criteria, ie. – Nothing too off the wall or crude. As far as origin for the character, I encourage you to have fun with naming the township or province you came from, but again nothing too off the wall or crude please.
   
   The species that have been listed in the book are as follows:

   • F.B.H. (Full Blood Human) – would come from anywhere on Earth.
   • Drago – ancestors (clans) would have come from Iceland or England.
   • Denizen (Non-Demonic) – would come from the Provinces of Hell.
   • Demon (Male Only) – would come from the Provinces of Hell.
   • Halfling (Half Demoness) – would come from the Provinces of Hell.

   Example – (F.B.H) Elfred MacDugal (Scottsman) and hails from Edinborough, Scotland.

Feature & Follow Friday #9

Hi peeps…

If you are new to the #FF fun, Feature & Follow is a blog hop that expands your blog following by a joint effort between bloggers.

Feature & Follow is hosted by Rachel of Parajunkee and Alison of Alison Can Read.

Ok, so here’s how it works… Leave a comment on this post so that I can follow you back.



For more details regarding Feature and Follow have a look at the following websites -
Parajunkee
Alison Can Read

Make sure to follow back if someone follows you! Let’s start spreading some blogger love…

Interview: Solitaire Parke

Today we have author Solitaire Parke on the blog for an interview, telling us about his novels, why he writes and his current projects. Be sure to stop by the blog on Saturday, June 30th for an AH-MAZING giveaway sponsored by Solitaire. Let the fun begin!

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Describe your series? What genre would you classify it into?

"The Emerald Dragon" is book one of the Series "Dragomeir" and is told by the leading character, Tanis.  The story is how he bonded with a dragon and prepares for an apocalyptic war.  The series explores many species such as, Demons, Dragons, Hell Hounds, and Vampires coexisting with mankind in Arizona.  I would consider this series to be Urban Fantasy.

How did you come up with the idea for the series?

I have read Fantasy for years, but I have never found all of the species I liked in one book.  The Dragomeir series fixes that problem for me.  I thought it would be fun for others too.

When and why did you begin writing?

Around the age of twelve.  I had been in the hospital for months and when I got home, I couldn't really do much.  I had been reading a lot during that time and it was a logical progression; reading stories, to writing them.

WINNER: $10 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway

On Thursday, 14 June we had the awesome Laxmi Hariharan over for an author interview! Laxmi talks writes about her series, Destiny of Shaitan, about writing science fiction and a few other interesting deets :) If you hare interested in reading her interview - click here

Laxmi has been so friggin' fabulous that she sponsored a giveaway...Booyah! We've had a great response... and today we're announcing the WINNER!

ARC Review: Determinant

Determinant [The Guardians of Vesturon #3]
By A.M. Hargrove

The Guardians of Vesturon Series:
Beginnings: Prequel #0.1 - Goodreads page
Survival #1 - Goodreads page | See review
Resurrection #2 - Goodreads page
Determinant #3

Synopsis:

January St. Davis, on her own since the age of sixteen and struggling to stay in college, thinks she's scored in a major way when she lands a paid summer internship at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta. One evening, after working an especially long shift, a chance encounter with a group of mysterious men alters the course of her life.

Rykerian Yarrister, a Guardian of Vesturon with unearthly powers and impossibly gorgeous looks, finds himself at odds over the human female he recently saved from certain death. When it seems he is on the verge of winning her over, she is ripped from his hands by a strange and powerful being, threatening to destroy her if his demands are not met.

Do Rykerian and the Guardians have the ability to meet this fierce barbarian's ultimatums, or will January suffer a horrid demise?

| See cover reveal, excerpt & author bio |

Where to begin? I was blown away by Determinant - it's definitely my favourite in the series. My emotions were on a major roller coaster ride - completely haywire!!

Rykerian is so sensitive, sweet, sensual, loving and romantic - the list could go on. He's the type of guy that would carry you on his hands and kiss the ground you walk on! Ok, he does have his moments of typical 'guyness' (is that a word? lol), but what guy doesn't? He gained a lover mate but also lost a close family member - I was gutted!! My throat was so tight from swallowing back tears!

Books To Die For: Our Top 5 Favourites

Ritesh and I decided to do something a little different today and not just flood the blog with guest posts and interviews! So today, we are listing our top 5 'to die for' books/series :) - books are listed in no particular order.

Aaaand go for it, Ritesh...

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When Alexia came up with the idea for this post, I only wanted to include the books which had left a mark on me, had actually helped in my development as a reader, and as a person. After a lot of thought, and going through my 'Read' list on Goodreads, I have come up with a list of books/series which I think deserve to be here.

Harry Potter Seriesby J.K Rowling



This series rekindled the joy of reading in a young kid, who had lost that magic. This surely means that the Harry Potter series has to be on my list. I loved each and every character in the book, even Draco Malfoy. I literally grew up with these characters, and I loved being part of their life story.

WINNERS: New Design Launch Giveaway

On Friday, 25 May we had the opening post of the new and improved Alexia's Chronicles! Vicky at Sweet Dreams Design was the amazing designer of this new look :) I also announced that Ritesh Kala is joining me as an Associate Blogger...

I have to admit that seeing my blog looking all 'spiffy' and pretty has given me a new passion drive to blog. Every Tuesday we have a guest post, on Thursday's we have author interviews (except every 3rd Thursday of the month we have a blogger interview) and reviews and giveaways are thrown in between :) On Friday's we have the Follow & Feature Friday meme and on Sunday's we have the Sunday Post - which has proven to be so much fun!

Sunday Post #3

The Sunday Post is a meme hosted by Kimba the Caffeinated Book Reviewer

Inspired by the meme, In My Mailbox - it's a chance to share news. A post to recap the past week, showcase books, things we have received and share news about what is coming up for the week on our blog.

So let's get started :)

Since we’re both feeling way better, we’ve jumped in feet first and started the week off with…

Saturday, 16 June

As you know we had author Laxmi Hariharan over for an interview on June 14^th. See here

She was kind enough to sponsor a prize for the giveaway… $10 Amazon Gift Card! Woot woot J Enter here

Cover Reveal: Determinant

Author A.M. Hargrove's 3rd book in her The Guardians of Vesturon series will be released end of June. In this post I will reveal the cover for Determinant, the synopsis, an excerpt and author information. So without further ado... here it is :)

Title: Determinant [The Guardians of Vesturon #3]

Author: A.M. Hargrove

Genre: Young Adult Paranormal Romance (with a sci-fi element)

Heat: Hot

Series: The Guardians of Vesturon - see here

Survival #1 - see here

Resurrection #2 - see here

Beginnings: Prequel #0.1 - see here

Synopsis:

January St. Davis, on her own since the age of sixteen and struggling to stay in college, thinks she's scored in a major way when she lands a paid summer internship at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta. One evening, after working an especially long shift, a chance encounter with a group of mysterious men alters the course of her life.

Rykerian Yarrister, a Guardian of Vesturon with unearthly powers and impossibly gorgeous looks, finds himself at odds over the human female he recently saved from certain death. When it seems he is on the verge of winning her over, she is ripped from his hands by a strange and powerful being, threatening to destroy her if his demands are not met.

Do Rykerian and the Guardians have the ability to meet this fierce barbarian's ultimatums, or will January suffer a horrid demise?

Amazon e-book |  Amazon UK  |  Smashwords |  Barnes & Noble  |  iTunes

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Feature & Follow Friday #8

Hi peeps…

If you are new to the #FF fun, Feature & Follow is a blog hop that expands your blog following by a joint effort between bloggers. Feature & Follow is hosted by Rachel of Parajunkee and Alison of Alison Can Read.

Ok, so here’s how it works… Leave a comment on this post so that I can follow you back. For more details regarding Feature and Follow have a look at the following websites -

Parajunkee
Alison Can Read

Make sure to follow back if someone follows you! Let’s start spreading some blogger love…