Guest Author Interview: D.A. Berry

Please welcome today's guest author D.A. Berry!  D.A. is the author of A Deepened Hunger and A Cry From Beyond.

EJ:  When did you begin writing?

DA:  I began writing five years ago. I wrote fan-fiction on several web-sites.

EJ:  What brought you to the paranormal genre?

DA:   Since childhood, I’ve loved the paranormal genre.  Staying up late on Saturday evenings watching the Chiller movies will always be one of my favorite memories.

EJ:  If you could be any paranormal or have any one supernatural talent, what would it be? Why?

DA:   That is easy—a vampire of course!  The mystery revolving around their existence is fascinating. They are sexy—adventurous—cunning when the situation requires. And what I love most about this immortal being is their passion and fearlessness. Choosing only one supernatural talent wow—that is quite difficult. I would say possessing the power to transform one’s body into a misty haze. Such a talent would enable one to be anywhere at any time.

EJ:  Tell us why readers will enjoy your new release.

DA:  ‘Dark Secrets’ will include two shorter stories. Since the release of my first novel ‘A Deepened Hunger’ my readers relate to the romance between Lucian and Jordan. He, being a vampire that lost all he cared for centuries ago—accepting change throughout, his long existence. She, being a successful modern business woman, whose life was turned upside down, is still capable of holding her own. The combination makes for a fiery relationship. In Dark Secrets Lucian’s beloved wife Jordan will uncover the true mystery behind the death of Isabella. Plagued with the reality of it all, Jordan will be faced with some impossible choices.
The second story revolves around Kara and ‘The Being’ introduced in ‘A Cry From Beyond’ book two in my vampire series. Once again, evil is reaping havoc on New Orleans. And the ancient goddess will stop at nothing to protect the humans and those she cares for. This novel will also bring in play many characters revealed in my weekly blog A Vampire’s Journal.

EJ:  If your book(s) were being made into a movie, who would you cast for the leading roles? Why?

DA:  Lucian Monroe~ George Clooney: His ability to adapt to any role and become that character is quite a gift.
Jordan Pierce-Shayne~ Scarlett Johansson: Her character in Iron Man 2 revealed she possesses the persona and ability to portray an immortal Jordan. And she is a stunning natural beauty.
Tristen Sinclair~ Keifer Sutherland: Besides being my favorite male actor. He above all possesses the talent to bring out all the qualities needed to portray this character.
Kara~ Susan Lucie: Strong minded, extremely talented, beautiful… Need I say more…

A Cry From Beyond by D.A. Berry.

Tristen Sinclair has existed for centuries, fighting evil, vowing to protect the one being he loved beyond reason, the woman he pledged his heart to. Centuries passed. As darkness covers the earth, the vampire awakens, consumed with agonizing pain, for he failed to keep his promise. Her death haunts him, ripping apart his soul. For nearly 200 years, the vampire has emotionally battled the beast within, wanting to end his existence, cursing his wife's dying words. "Tristen, you must carry on. Promise me, you will protect the innocent." Her dying words were forever embedded in his mind. Unable to bear her loss any longer, he plans his demise. Awaiting the rising sun, the vampire whispers a prayer, begging her forgiveness. Suddenly, his head begins to throb, a panic-stricken voice invading his thoughts. A shattered mortal woman pleads to be saved from a soulless monster, an ancient vampire believed no longer of this world. Ana Nichols~ At the tender age of seventeen, a monster existing to inflict pain all but destroyed her. The being possessed her soul, ripping apart her inner self, subconsciously tormenting her mind night after night. Overwhelming fear was her only thought once darkness covered the earth. That night, an institution for the mentally ill became Ana's salvation, her home. For 10 years Davis Hospital has kept her hidden from the being, until one cold December night, when once again the creature has found her. Sensing deep within that there is no escape and knowing the monster tormenting her thoughts will not stop until it owns her soul, she mentally cries out, not understanding yet believing the one with emotionless eyes possesses the power to save her. Welcome to their world, the realm of the undead.


Thank you D.A. for joining us here today at From the Shadows!

To learn more about D.A. Berry and her books, please visit her website.

Book Review: Jekel Loves Hyde

Jekel Loves Hyde by Beth Fantaskey.

Jill Jekel has always obeyed her parents rules;especially the one about never opening the mysterious, old box in her father's office. But when her dad is murdered, and her college savings disappear, she's tempted to peek inside, as the contents might be the key to a lucrative chemistry scholarship.  To improve her odds, Jill enlists the help of gorgeous, brooding Tristen Hyde, who has his own dark secrets locked away. As the team of Jekel and Hyde, they recreate experiments based on the classic novel, hoping not only to win a prize, but to save Tristen's sanity. Maybe his life. But Jill's accidental taste of a formula unleashes her darkest nature and compels her to risk everything, even Tristen's love just for the thrill of being . . . bad.

Review:

The word is about, there's something evolving
Whatever may come, the world keeps revolving
They say the next big thing is here
That the revolution's near
But to me it seems quite clear
That it's all just a little bit of history repeating 

-Propellerheads

It's all just a little bit of history repeating...  What if the story of The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson were true?  What if the formula that Doctor Jekel created really worked and altered the course of the Jekel and Hyde families forever?  This is the basis for Jekel Loves Hyde and Fantaskey, author of Jessica's Guide to Dating on the Dark Side, does a fabulous job of reeling the reader in from the very first page.  Jill Jekel and Tristen Hyde's lives are about to take a bizarre turn, but they are both so filled with realistic flaws and feelings that the entire scenario feels utterly believable.  Jekel Love Hyde will take you on a thrilling ride of danger and young romance.  A suspenseful paranormal read that young adult paranormal romance fans will drink up like the elixir within its pages.  A heady draught both bitter and sweet.

I recommend Jekel Loves Hyde to readers of young adult, paranormal romance, urban fantasy, paranormal mysteries, and especially to fans of paranormal suspense.  Jekel Loves Hyde may appeal to fans of The Hollow by Jessica Verday and Nevermore by Kelly Creagh.

Sensitive reader warning: mild violence, sexual situations.

Source: This book was purchased by E.J. for review.


Jekel Loves Hyde on Amazon.
Jekel Loves Hyde on Goodreads.

E.J. Launches PNR4Wolves

As a paranormal romance author with a love of wolves, I wanted to do something to bring attention to our wild neighbors.  PNR4Wolves is an exciting new way for paranormal authors to raise awareness and promote the rescue and preservation of wolves.

PNR4Wolves Supporting Authors provide books, ebooks, and/or swag for our giveaway.  Prizes can be found on the List of PNR4Wolves Giveaway Prizes page which will be updated frequently.  There will be one US winner and one International winner.  Winners will be drawn March 15th 2012.

PNR4Wolves is a fun way to win prizes including paranormal romance books, ebooks, and swag.  To enter, readers complete one simple form to let us know that they intend to contribute to the rescue and preservation of wolves.  This may be in the form of volunteering with your local wildlife refuge or nature conservancy, joining a letter writing campaign, donating to wolf rescue organizations or wolf sanctuaries, and/or adopting a wolf.

Please do not send donations directly to PNR4Wolves or E.J. Stevens.  The intention of PNR4Wolves is to raise awareness and most of all...have fun! To learn more about PNR4Wolves check out the new website.  This site just launched so please check back for updates.

Help spread the word.  If promoting on Twitter, please use the #PNR4Wolves hashtag.  With your help we can make this a huge success!

1,000 Followers Giveaway Celebration

From the Shadows now has 1,000 GFC followers!  To celebrate, I am having a follower giveaway.  Three fab prizes for three lucky winners!

**1,000 Followers Giveaway**

I am giving away a $10 Amazon Gift Card,  a Spirit Storm tote bag to hold your new signed copy of Spirit Storm and fun Spirit Storm swag (US), and a copy of She Smells the Dead from The Book Depository (international). 

To enter, please leave a comment on this post including your email address (so we may contact you if you win).  This is a follower giveaway so you must follow From the Shadows on GFC (Google Friend Connect) or Twitter to enter.  Some giveaway prizes are international (please see above).  Giveaway ends March 9th midnight EST.

Bonus entries:
Look who made the Top 30 Most Followed People on Goodreads!  To celebrate I am giving a bonus to all of my Goodreads followers. :)
+5 entries Follow E.J. on Goodreads

Guest Author Interview: Valentina Heart

Please welcome today's guest author Valentina Heart!  Valentina is the author of Memories, Eyes of an Innocent, Resisting Temptation, Looking for Adventure, and Sebastian's Wolves.

EJ:  When did you begin writing?

Valentina:  I have always been writing something. As a child it was my version of movie plots and imagined worlds with all the great characters I’d seen on screen.  I think even then it had a bit of kink in it, but there is no way I’m revisiting those stories and checking. The first time it got somewhat serious was in high school when I had a blog, pretty large fan base and a wicked number of short stories posted for my readers. Back then I couldn’t move past the tragic, killing both characters or just making it all as gruesome as I could.

Still, the real thing didn’t start but a few years later when reading became almost as important as breathing and I decided I could easily write the stuff I was already reading. It was a good way to polish my English and five months after I started my first book I got the contract for the second one (the first still isn’t ready for publication). A lot changed since those first few written words; I’ve finally found my kink in two men making it extra hot, the books can’t seem to end once I start writing, and a HEA is a must.

EJ:  What brought you to the paranormal genre?

Valentina:   Vampires. Watching Interview with the Vampire had me all kinds of flustered and as soon as I was old enough I’d searched the library shelves for anything about them. Only years later did I actually start buying books in English when I couldn’t find any translations and a few years more after that this whole new world of shifters, fae and demons opened up and I was permanently hooked.

EJ:  If you could be any paranormal or have any one supernatural talent, what would it be? Why?

Valentina:  I guess I’ve gotten over the vampires because shifting sounds way more cool. So shifting in one of those big felines plus the ability to teleport at will, would be just perfect.  I like the whole shifter bonding thing and the pack/pride mentality as opposed to vampires who always stay somewhere on the side all aloof and alone. But since every cat needs some time away and space to wander, I need teleportation. There is no way I’m staying in one place or even on the same continent my whole life. I’m curious and I need to explore.

EJ:  Tell us why readers will enjoy your new release.

Valentina:  My new release.  Well, if you are anything like me, you will be first drawn to it because of the cover and the title. Just seeing  ‘wolves’ in there is enough to get my attention. Then I will tell you how the sex is pretty hot and rough, had me squirming as I wrote it, and the angsty part is emotional enough to get you hooked. But even if none of that strikes you as interesting, maybe the funny aspects of the book and the side characters will hit their mark.

I really had fun writing this book, imagining a little world of their own, and noting makes me happier than satisfying a reader. If your expression changes from happy to sad and you don’t roll your eyes through it, I will be satisfied, and just maybe the ending pulls that full-out grin from you.

EJ:  If your book(s) were being made into a movie, who would you cast for the leading roles? Why?

Valentina:  My upcoming release is called Sebastian’s wolves and honestly, this book never would have happened if not for the 30 seconds to Mars video – Closer to the Edge. Jared’s energy and that pink Mohawk were the trigger that made me place him in my book as Eshan.

The main character, Sebastian, was created at the image of Josh Hartnett. Take any of those pictures of him with the piercing look and that messy hair and I swear he screams wolf at you.

His first mate Tim is Jonathan Rhys Meyers, again – wolf. When he’s serious he looks like he could kill you just by standing there.

And the side character who seems unimportant from your point of view but who you will probably love by the end of the book is Konner.  Clive Owen is the perfect actor for my Alpha.

Sebastian's Wolves by Valentina Heart.

Sebastian Vory was quite happy with his decision to leave his shifter pack to build a life with his mate Tim. But when an accident takes Tim from Sebastian, the lone wolf is thrown into aimless wandering that leads him to a new pack—and another shifter, Eshan Low. But Eshan has a troubled past, and despite his hopes and wishes, that past has a steel grip. Embroiled in a fight for justice, Sebastian is willing to do anything not to lose another mate, and just this once, luck might smile his way.


Thank you Valentina for joining us here today at From the Shadows!

To learn more about Valentina Heart and her books, please visit her website.

Book Review: Soul in Love

Soul in Love by Vone Savan.

Soul in Love is a fictitious paranormal romance that centers on a seventeen year old girl named Amber Olive. One evening, after spending time together, Amber and her boyfriend, London, end up in a horrible car accident in which she somehow survives, but her boyfriend does not. Then, while Amber mourns his death, she begins to see and feel London again. At first, she questions her sanity, but then starts to believe in him. Through this newfound belief, she takes a metaphysical journey which ultimately answers the questions to London's appearances and her own reality.  This book deals with the issues of loss, grief, and love. It challenges the idea of how far we will go to try and get back the person we once loved; even after something as profound as death. Soul in Love also raises questions relating to what each of us will truly believe after something tragic happens-spiritually and otherwise.

Review:

What would you do to stay with the one you love?  Soul in Love is a wonderful debut by Vone Savan.  I have to admit that I was expecting a sweet, young adult paranormal romance, but was pleasantly surprised by the depth and chilling nature of this novel.  After Amber loses her boyfriend London in a tragic car accident she doesn't know how to move on.  Savan's description of heartache and loss is believable and adds to the realism of Amber's experience.  When Amber begins to communicate with her dead boyfriend, she sets into motion a series of unexpected, life changing events.  Soul in Love is a haunting tale of love, remorse, grief, and obsession.  Due to certain tragic themes (see "sensitive reader warning" below) this novel may be more suitable for more mature YA readers and adults.

I recommend Soul in Love to readers of paranormal romance, paranormal suspense, and especially to fans of young adult fiction with darker themes.  Soul in Love may appeal to fans of the Twilight series by Stephenie Meyer, Romeo & Juliet, The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold, and the Wolves of Mercy Falls series by Maggie Stiefvater.

Sensitive reader warning: violence, sexual situations, and mixed messages concerning teen suicide

Source: This book was provided by the author or publisher for honest review.


Soul in Love on Amazon.
Soul in Love on Goodreads.

Don't miss our interview with Vone Savan here at From the Shadows.

Exciting news in the world of E.J.

Exciting news in the world of E.J. (or the post where I go crazy with exclamation points!).

Time for some updates!!! See what I mean about exclamation points? 

New ebook pricing!

I have never had a complaint about book pricing (my ebooks have always been priced under $5).  My readers are just that fabulous!  But let's face it, the world of ebook publishing is changing rapidly and there are thousands of wonderful books now available.  With a bit of trepidation we've reduced the price of all Spirit Guide series ebooks.  So, at total risk of sounding like an advertisement, Spirit Storm is now $3.99 and She Smells the Dead is now only $2.99!

Paranormal Spring Break!

I have officially announced my participation in Paranormal Spring Break 2011.  Paranormal Spring Break is an online event celebrating new releases in the paranormal genre with author interviews, guest blogs, and giveaways. Paranormal Spring Break is hosted by Parajunkee's View and Tynga's Reviews.  On March 13th the event will include an interview with your favorite Spirit Guide series characters, Yuki, Calvin, Emma, and Simon. The Spirit Guide series character interview will be followed by an amazing giveaway. We will be giving away a special spring-themed Spirit Guide series tote bag stuffed with signed books, bookmarks, postcards, an "I Smell Dead People" t-shirt, and a gorgeous Spirit Storm poster! 

New Spirit Guide Series Postcards!

The Spirit Guide series Valentine's Day Postcards were such a hit!  Fans loved getting signed swag in the mail, so I've created some fun springtime "Yuki with cherry blossoms" postcards and will be sending these out to everyone on my mailing list next month.

Not on E.J.'s mailing list?  Click here to fill out the form and be included in mailings and get free Spirit Guide series swag!  **Please note:  Not all postal mailings will be sent to international addresses, but I will do my best to find ways to include all of my fans!  There is now an email address option which I highly recommend for international fans.  I plan to use the email list for announcements, free reads, and coupon codes. 

Nearly 1,000 Blog Followers!

As I'm writing this post From the Shadows has 990 fabulous readers following on GFC.  Wow!  I promise a HUGE giveaway celebration when From the Shadows reaches 1,000 followers.  You all rock!

RT Booklovers Convention 2012 (Chicago)!

Okay, I know April 2012 feels like a gazillion days away, but one thing I've learned from 2011 is to finalize those author appearances.  It is way too easy to become immersed in the worlds in which I write and lose track of author registration and event application deadlines.  So, I've decided to commit to the RT (Romantic Times) Booklovers Convention 2012 in Chicago.  I love that the focus of this convention is on the people who are the most important in this industry...readers like you.

I'm still working on my 2012 event schedule, so drop me an email if you'd like me to visit your book fair, convention, or fantasy event.  I have been extremely busy writing, but plan to escape my crypt for regular author appearances throughout 2012.

So what's new with you?

Guest Author Interview: Courtney Conant

Please welcome today's guest author Courtney Conant!  Courtney is the author of The Blood Moon of Winter.

EJ:  When did you begin writing?

Courtney:  I started writing around the age of four. I was instantly drawn to it from almost the moment that I began reading. Something about the written word made me feel motivated. Writing seemed almost a necessity for me. I hit a major road block in my writing when all that I had written for over fourteen years was burned down in a house fire. It took almost ten years for me to get back into the swing of things. The first thing that I wrote upon the break of my writer’s block was this novel!

EJ:  What brought you to the paranormal genre?

Courtney:   It was purely by accident. I was always a fan of the genre but had never tried writing it. I started writing my novel, only knowing the opening sentence. The novel just sort of wrote itself and turned into what it is today!

EJ:  If you could be any paranormal or have any one supernatural talent, what would it be? Why?

Courtney:  This is probably the most difficult question for me. There are so many that I would love to have but right now I think I'd probably have to choose Bilocation. I love the idea of being able to be in more than one location at any given time. The only thing that concerns me is whether I would be able to combine the memories from both locations/times and be able to actually keep everything straight. I think I would need to keep a diary from both times/places in order to do so. Things might start to get a bit confusing after awhile...

EJ:  Tell us why readers will enjoy your new release.

Courtney:  My new novel is very unique. I've received amazing feedback and all reviewers/readers have stated that it is nothing like any novel they have read before. Most stories have been told over and over again, only in different ways. I wanted to keep things different. I wanted to be myself and tell a story that would make the reader think and keep them guessing. It is definitely a page turner!

EJ:  If your book(s) were being made into a movie, who would you cast for the leading roles? Why?

Courtney:   Let’s see… I’ve actually thought about this because I had to have an idea of how to build to covers for my books. My main female character is named Lilyana. For her, I would have to choose Deborah Ann Woll.  Her appearance is absolutely perfect for Lily. She seems as if she could play the part too. (Of course, I don’t want to give too much away…)
Jason is the male protagonist in the novel. He will be featured on the cover of the sequel, Beyond the Known Horizon. Since I already had the description of him and a feel for how he should look and act, I found that James Caviezel would be perfect! Sad to say, it might be awhile before it were ever to be made into a movie, he might be a bit old by the time it comes out…

The Blood Moon of Winter by Courtney Conant.

Upon the discovery that the world in her dreams is actually real, Lilyana is torn by indecision. She is the only one who can save the dying land of Makayra. Yet, to do so, she must leave all she has ever known. She must choose whether her new found love is enough to keep her from performing a duty that has been thrust upon her. Playing the role of Goddess might be more than she bargained for.


Thank you Courtney for joining us here today at From the Shadows!

To learn more about Courtney Conant and her books, please visit her website.

Bloody Valentine Giveaway Winner!

Congratulations Raelena of ThroughTheHaze the lucky winner of the Bloody Valentine Giveaway at From the Shadows!  Raelena will receive a copy of Bloody Valentine (A Blue Bloods Novella) by Melissa de la Cruz from The Book Depository.

Thank you to all who entered. 

Didn't win?  Check out our current giveaways at the top of the page or in the right sidebar.

**All From the Shadows giveaway winners selected using Random.org**

My Demon Valentine: Character Interview with Annie and Faust + Giveaway

Please welcome today's returning guest author Danielle D. Smith and special guests Annie, Faust, and Erik!  Danielle is the author of Black Dog and Rebel Rose, Psyche's Gate, and In the Neon.

Love is in the air. Florists, chocolatiers, card makers, and jewelers prepare to rake in the bounty as lovers and friends express their affections on the feast day of Saint Valentine.

Being me, I have to poke a little fun at this most romantic Saint's Day by interviewing a very peculiar couple...although I believe that you will find them to be as romantic as they come. Please welcome Annie and her beloved demon lover, Faust, whose story will be hitting store shelves this spring. I am delighted to see that they have also brought along their infant son, Erik, who has quite the personality!

DANI: Welcome, Annie and Faust. You too, Erik!

(Faust smiles shyly, nodding. Annie bounces Erik in her lap; Erik burbles and blows raspberries.)

ANNIE: Thanks, Dani. Say hi, baby!

(She takes Erik's hand and waves it. The baby wriggles in her lap, crowing happily.)

DANI: He's quite a character. He pinched my boob when I held him.

ANNIE: Yep, that's our little stinker! He loves women already.

DANI (laughing): I can tell! He's quite a flirt. Anyway, you two have quite a story to tell us! How did you two meet?

ANNIE (blushing): Faustie here was hanging around the strip club where I worked.

DANI: That was The Neon, right?

ANNIE: That's right.

DANI: Faust, when did you first see Annie? Was The Neon the club you were always in?

FAUST: No. It was my duty to drift all around the Red Light district, to capture the Master's prey. I saw Annie by accident, standing outside on her break. It was as if...a light had struck me. A light no demon is meant to see...but I have never regretted it.

(Annie sighs and leans in to kiss him. Erik, apparently unimpressed by his parent's show of affection, bounces and smirks to himself.)

DANI: that is so damn romantic.

ANNIE: Tell me about it. He snuck into my booth a little while later; I guess he'd been watching me for a while. He was only interested in talking...really talking...and drew me in from the start. We talked about books while I sat there with my bra off. (She laughs.)

DANI: Books? Really?

ANNIE: Yeah. I'm a voracious reader...I suppose you could say that I break the "stripper stereotype".

DANI: That's a good thing! What kind of books are we talking about here?

ANNIE:  Classics. The Plague, Metamorphosis, Goethe's Faust. Of course Goethe's Faust--that was, like, "insta" connection. (She winks.)

DANI: Faust, you are a True Native. Tell us what that is.

FAUST: It means that I am not Fallen. I am a demon bron directly from the Pit.

DANI: So you're not a fallen angel.

FAUST (scoffing): Of course not.

ANNIE (rolling her eyes playfully): He's such an elitest.

DANI (chuckling): I can see that. Tell us about your history, Faust.

FAUST (quietly): It is not something that I am proud of. I was made to be a Collector--a demon whose sole purpose is to tempt human souls into damnation. I did that for a very, very long time.

DANI: How old are you, Faust?

FAUST (distantly): I first emerged from the flames when humans were emerging from the wilderness and gathering into villages and cities for the first time. Long, long ago, though I am not as old as some.

DANI: Fascinating. Okay, moving on. Annie, tell us a little bit about your background. You are a first generation Swede, correct?

ANNIE (very proudly): Ja, that's right. My parents came from Sweden. I was raised speaking their native tongue as well as English. I'm very proud of my heritage, and I'm going to make sure my little pojke

speaks it, too.

(She takes Erik's little hands and gently claps them together.)

ANNIE: Let's sing Dani and her nice fans a song:

Baka, baka liten kaka,
rulla, rulla liten bulla,
ringla, ringla liten kringla,
mjöla den och pricka den
och… skjuts in i ugnen!

Bake, bake little cake;
Roll, roll the little buns,
Coil, curl the small pretzel,
Flour it and mark it
And... shove in the oven!

(Erik giggles and blows more raspberries.)

DANI (laughing): I love it! Faust, do you speak Swedish, too?

FAUST (beaming): I speak all human languages... all of my kind do.

DANI:  Annie, I have to ask you something, and I ask your forgiveness in advance if this is hurtful. Faust saved you from a rape, didn't he?

(Faust growls low in his throat.)

ANNIE (her eyes downcast): Yes. Thank God...I know it's odd to say thank God, but I think now that God did have a hand in it. I'm the oddball Swedish girl who is also a devout Catholic, so I believe very firmly in that sort of thing.

DANI: That's good, Annie. What happened?

ANNIE (stroking her fingers through her baby son's feathery blond hair): One of my regulars attacked me when I was leaving The Neon. Faust...came out of nowhere and...stopped the guy.

FAUST: I tore him limb from limb. Then I carried him into the night and spread his flesh across the skies.

DANI: Wow.

ANNIE: Yeah, pretty amazing. Faust scared the hell out of me, no pun intended--he was in his true form-- but he proved himself that night. I can't ever thank him enough. He's given me everything.

(Erik burbles and grabs a strand of his mother's hair in his fist, yanking; he sticks his little tongue out and it's black and forked. Annie laughs, breaking the tension.)

ANNIE: And I mean everything. This little guy is the best Valentine's gift Faustie could have ever given me. I
had a dream about Erik once...only he was grown up. It' was pretty incredible.

DANI: You had a vision?

ANNIE: Yeah. Big muscles, like his papa, and lots of tattoos.

DANI: Wow! Does that bother you?

ANNIE (grinning): Nope, not at all. He's gonna be a badass. Aren't you?

(She bounces Erik in her lap, and he squeals merrily. Faust looks on, adoring.)

DANI: Faust, you must be very proud of your family.

FAUST (shyly): Yes. They have been my redemption.

DANI: That's so awesome. Thanks for joining us, guys. Happy Valentine's Day.

ANNIE: You too, hon. Thanks for having us. Say bye, bye!

(She waves Erik's floppy little hand. He squirms, hiccups, and burps up a tiny spout of flame.)

DANI (cracking up): Boy, he's a cute little devil! Bye, little guy!

Danielle D. Smith is an author and artist living in San Diego, CA. She writes dark fantasy, horror, and erotica that appeals to those readers looking for paranormal fiction outside of the mainstream. Her third book, IN THE NEON, will be released in Spring 2011 and will be her first novel to be fully illustrated.

In the Neon by Danielle D. Smith.

In the Neon tells the story of Faust, a master Collector demon born from Hellfire itself, and Annie, the beautiful stripper who lights a forbidden fire in his heart. Dark fantasy for fans of paranormal romance, erotica, horror, and demon-themed fantasy.

Thank you Danielle for joining us here today at From the Shadows!

To learn more about Danielle D. Smith and her books, please visit her website.

**Signed Character Art Giveaway**

We are giving away a signed, artist embellished matted print of this artwork, titled "Little Family", depicting Faust, Annie, and baby Erik (who some may recognize as Skriker) to one lucky winner!

To enter, leave a comment on this post including your email address (so we may contact you if you win).  You do not have to be a follower to enter (though I always appreciate a follow!).  This giveaway is to US mailing addresses only.  Giveaway ends February 28th midnight EST.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Happy Valentine's Day from E.J. and DB!  xx

Spirit Storm Giveaway: Tote Bag Stuffed with Prizes!

Fall in love with the Spirit Guide series... Valentine's Day is right around the corner and we're celebrating here at From the Shadows with a Spirit Storm Giveaway!

**Spirit Storm Giveaway**

We are giving away a Spirit Storm tote bag stuffed with Spirit Guide Series prizes including a signed copy of She Smells the Dead, signed copy of Spirit Storm, "I Smell Dead People" t-shirt (size XL), She Smells the Dead bookmarks, Spirit Storm poster, and Spirit Guide Series postcards.

To enter, leave a comment on this post including your email address (so we may contact you if you win).  You do not have to be a follower to enter (though I always appreciate a follow).  This giveaway is to US mailing addresses only (click here to enter the Goodreads giveaway for a signed copy of Spirit Storm open to US, UK, and Canada).  Giveaway ends March 11th midnight EST.

Bonus entries:

+1 Follow on GFC (Google Friend Connect)
+1 Follow E.J. on Twitter
+1 Share the love!  Spread the word on any social network (Twitter, Facebook, Blog, etc).  Good for one bonus point only.
+1 Add Spirit Storm to your TBR list on Goodreads

Guest Author Interview: Vone Savan + Bookmark Giveaway

Please welcome today's guest author Vone Savan!  Vone is the author of Soul in Love.

EJ:  When did you begin writing?

Vone:  The majority of my life. But I began seriously writing about three years ago after reading a few original ghost stories during a camping trip and getting excellent reception from my family and friends.

EJ:  What brought you to the paranormal genre?

Vone:   My natural interest—even as a little kid—in ghosts, goblins, and most things paranormal.

EJ:  If you could be any paranormal or have any one supernatural talent, what would it be? Why?

Vone:   That’s easy—to fly. The sensation to soar through the sky on a warm, breezy, spring day would be absolutely amazing; very freeing.

EJ:  Tell us why readers will enjoy your new release.

Vone:  It’s a different take on paranormal romance—based on the YA novels I’ve read so far. The romance is between a girl and her dead boyfriend’s lingering ghost. Also, I think my book is full of controversial surprises—all the way to the end.

EJ:  If your book(s) were being made into a movie, who would you cast for the leading roles? Why?

Vone:  For Amber Olive, I would cast Mia Wasikowska. Her face is simple, beautiful, and elegant; and her acting skills are sublime. For London Bliss, it would have to be Aaron Johnson. He has bright eyes, translucent skin, a sexy appeal, and he also acts amazingly well. In addition, I think these two would have great on-screen chemistry. I would also love the movie to be directed by Ang Lee. 

Soul in Love by Vone Savan.

Soul in Love is a fictitious paranormal romance that centers on a seventeen year old girl named Amber Olive. One evening, after spending time together, Amber and her boyfriend, London, end up in a horrible car accident in which she somehow survives, but her boyfriend does not. Then, while Amber mourns his death, she begins to see and feel London again. At first, she questions her sanity, but then starts to believe in him. Through this newfound belief, she takes a metaphysical journey which ultimately answers the questions to London's appearances and her own reality. This book deals with the issues of loss, grief, and love. It challenges the idea of how far we will go to try and get back the person we once loved; even after something as profound as death. Soul in Love also raises questions relating to what each of us will truly believe after something tragic happens-spiritually and otherwise.


Thank you Vone for joining us here today at From the Shadows!

To learn more about Vone Savan and his books, please visit his website.

**Soul in Love Bookmark Giveaway**

We are giving away Soul in Love bookmarks to three lucky winners!

To enter, please leave a comment on this post including your email address (so we may contact you if you win).  This giveaway is to US mailing addresses only.  Giveaway ends February 25th midnight EST.

Legend of Witchtrot Road: Sneak Peek

Here is a sneak peek from Legend of Witchtrot Road, the third book in the Spirit Guide series by E.J. Stevens.

Legend of Witchtrot Road...

     I heard the harsh, grinding creak of a ship’s hull straining against stormy seas just as I felt the vertiginous tilt and roll of the waves beneath me.  I considered letting the motion lull me back to sleep, but one thought kept creeping in to ruin my slumber.   I wasn’t on a boat.

     With a jolt I tried to leap upright, but up was down and down was up, causing a searing pain to shoot through my shoulder as I dangled from the car safety belt.  I needed to get a look around, but turning my head didn’t seem like an easy option.  My neck was stiff, like the time I fell asleep with wet hair, and my head was pounding a rhythm that matched the vampire bats gnawing in my stomach.  Come on Yuki, you can do this.

     Reaching up to grab the safety belt, I steadied myself and drew in a deep shuddering breath.  It did nothing to calm my racing heartbeat, but the pain in my head momentarily lessened.  Forcing my eyes to stay open, I turned them to my right and flinched.  A ghostly pale face stared back at me and it took a moment for my sluggish brain to realize that the spectral form was only my reflection looking back at me.  I examined the sickly face suspended in the darkness and knew one thing for sure.  I looked like hell.

     For a moment I closed my eyes and gathered another steadying breath, remembering to breathe in the way I’d been taught during the numerous yoga classes that Cal had dragged me to over the years.   Determined to get to the bottom of the mystery of why I was hanging upside down from a car safety belt, I pulled my eyes to the left.  A golden amorphous shape hung glowing beside me and I nearly jumped when it moaned.

     “Emma?” I asked.  My voice was dry and raspy and started a series of painful coughs that nearly made me pass out again.

     Emma didn’t answer me, but with a rush of memory I knew that it was my friend beside me.  Emma’s blond hair cascaded past her face to dangle above the glowing instrument panel.  Pale skin, golden hair, and white blouse sleeve were marred only by a dark stream that trickled from her scalp along her arm to drip slowly, tap tap tap, off her fingers onto the windshield.

     How did we get here?  It had to be the curse.  I clenched my fist in frustration as my eyes filled with tears.  We had known better.  Emma with her research and me with my psychic gift to sense the dead; we knew the risks of messing with the curse, but that hadn’t stopped us.  Our curiosity had won out over common sense and now we were paying the price.  Son of a dung beetle.  I just hoped we survived long enough to benefit from the lesson learned.  Never mess with a curse and never, ever travel on Witchtrot Road.

Don't miss these books in the Spirit Guide series:

She Smells the Dead (Spirit Guide #1) print, kindle, nook, other ebook formats, and internationally at The Book Depository.
Spirit Storm (Spirit Guide #2) print, kindle, nook, other ebook formats.

copyright 2011

Character Interview: Neev and Romy (Eye of the Wizard)

Please welcome today's returning guest author Daniel Arenson and special guests Neev and Romy!  Daniel is the author of Flaming Dove, Firefly Island, The Gods of Dream, and Eye of the Wizard.

Today we welcome Neev, a young wizard, and Romy, a demon girl.  Both
are characters from the fantasy novel Eye of the Wizard, by Daniel
Arenson.  Neev will be interviewing Romy.

Neev:  "Oh dear.  They have me interviewing Romy now?"

Romy:  "Hiya!"

Neev:  "I thought now that Eye of the Wizard is written and done, I'd
be rid of you."

Romy:  "You're never getting rid of me, Mommy."

Neev:  "Will you stop calling me that?"

Romy:  "Why?  You're a wizard.  You summoned me from Hell.  So now
you're my mommy."

Neev:  "Romy, how can I be your mommy?  I'm a boy.  Just because I
summoned you to Earth doesn't mean that--"

Romy:  "Can I have a lollipop?  Please please PLEASE?"

Neev:  "For Heaven's sake, you're a grown demon.  You've tortured
sinners for a living.  What kind of demon goes around begging for
lollipops?"

Romy:  "A HUNGRY demon.  Me want foooooood."

Neev:  "Romy, how old are you again?"

Romy:  "207.  I'm big!"

Neev:  "And you still act like a baby."

Romy:  "I'm not a baby.  Don't call me a baby.  Just because I like
lollipops, and just because I have a teddy bear named Floofie, and
just because I decorate my pitchfork with ribbons, and just because I
suck my thumb, and just because I sometimes wear a bonnet, and just
because--"

Neev:  "Romy, I get it.  Can we just get this interview over with?"

Romy:  "All right!  And after that, will you play marbles with me?"

Neev:  "No, Romy.  No more marbles."

Romy:  "Tea party?"

Neev:  "No."

Romy:  "Hide and seek?"

Neev:  "No more games, Romy!"

Romy:  "Chess?  I always beat you at chess."

Neev:  "No more chess."

Romy:  "Sour loser.  You cried when I beat you last time."

Neev:  "Romy, I told you already.  I had something in my eyes.  Look.
We have to do this interview already.  I want to go back to my
spellbooks.  First question:  What do you feel the main themes of Eye
of the Wizard are, and how does the author illuminate them?"

Romy:  "Howza what now?"

Neev:  "The literary themes.  The moral purpose of the narrative.  How
does your character's story arch illustrate them?"

Romy:  "Illu-whose-it?  Neev, are you all right?"

Neev:  "Tell us about your character development throughout the novel.
 How does Romy grow and change as the plot unfolds?"

Romy:  "Oh!  I get it.  There was this time in Chapter Twenty, when I
drank some growth potion, and I became a hundred feet tall!  Do you
remember, Neev?  You looked like a little ant to me.  I could have
crushed you!"

Neev:  "Not that kind of character growth, Romy.  I mean:  How did you
develop as a person?"

Romy:  "I'm not a person.  I'm a demon, remember?  You summoned me
from Hell.  You should know that, Mommy."

Neev:  "Stop calling me Mommy!  Are you going to answer these
questions intelligently, or not?"

Romy:  "I'm smart!"

Neev:  "Lovely.  So tell us, Romy.  Do you feel the climax of Eye of
the Wizard presents a moral dilemma, which can only be resolved by
making a personal sacrifice, and if so, how is this choice
foreshadowed, and how does it solve the conflict presented at the
plot's onset?"

Romy:  "Uhm... yes?"

Neev:  "Yes what, Romy?"

Romy:  "I like turtles!"

Neev:  "That is irrelevent."

Romy:  "Can I have my lolli now?"

Neev:  "*sigh*  Here you go, Romy."

Romy:  "Mmm, yum yum, strawberry.  Thank you, Mommy Neev!"

Neev:  "I'd like to apologize to our readers for this travesty of an--
Romy, Romy, you're not supposed to eat the stick too!  Romy!  Stop
putting the candy in my hair!"

Eye of the Wizard by Daniel Arenson.

When you can't run or hide, you fight back.

On the longest night of the year, a dark wizard murders a knight and his wife.  The knight's children survive and swear revenge. Sam and Jamie vow to become knights like their father. Neev, the middle child, vows to become a wizard.  Five years later, things look grim. Sam is useless with the sword. Jamie is denied knighthood because she's a girl. Neev cannot cast a spell without growing donkey ears, a monkey tail, or an elephant trunk. The siblings feel like failures.  That's when the dark wizard strikes again.  Are the siblings powerful enough to defeat him? Or will they too die at his hands? 


Thank you Daniel (and Neev and Romy!) for joining us here today at From the Shadows!

To learn more about Daniel Arenson and his books, please visit his website. 

Don't miss Daniel's author interview here, Daniel's interview of Eliven from The Gods of Dream here, and E.J.'s review of Flaming Dove here.