Phoenix Entertainment and Development

Phoenix Entertainment and Development

Monday, October 12, 2015

Monster Mash Book Blitz Countdown: Day 1: Alaina Stanford




 A young widow, Whitney concentrates on work and her children. A new client, Veronica Nelson, an elderly woman with a sour face hires Whitney as her corporate attorney. Whitney discovers Veronica has an intellectual property rights claim against a lucrative corporation that owes millions of dollars. Veronica asks Whitney to rewrite her Will then dies mysteriously a few days later. That’s when the calls begin and the shadows grow eyes. So begins a chain of events that spiral quickly out of control. Whitney discovers there are some things she cannot face alone.

Purchase your copy here:




I have one of those brains that won't turn off at night. Many nights I would distract my intellect by revamping a movie, book or TV show in my mind. I would twist and turn the plots and characters to achieve the ending I preferred. That developed into side stories about my favorite minor characters. Each night I fell asleep in the middle of a grand adventure. It wasn't long before I began to create stories of my own and put pen to paper.

I love a good adventure. I love a good romance. As the mother of seven children, I also learned to love to play video games. One day it occurred to me to write an adventure that flowed like a video game and I added a touch of romance. Thus, Hypnotic Journey was born. The HJ characters are like a family to me. They are foolish, daring, resourceful, passionate and dedicated to their friends.
My love for Science Fiction gave birth to the Treborel Series. It’s a paranormal Sci-Fi romance featuring a psychotic villain and a multiple layer
of hero's fighting to survive the chaos.
I write about how friendship and love can carry you through situations that you might not otherwise survive. You will find my stories exciting and steamy, but I am not an erotic writer. My stories fade to dark when the steam begins to rise, but take it from me, the steam does rise and emotions do soar.



Connect with the Author here:

http://authoralainastanford.com

http://twitter.com/awritr

http://facebook.com/authoralainastanford



Now for some fun interview questions!


3- What other hobbies do you enjoy when you are not writing? I play the piano, am learning to play the flute and sing.
4- A lot of authors I have noticed have music as a way to help with their writing. Is this something that you have used as well? If not what are some things you have used? Music or a classic movie running in the background help me write, other times complete silence is best.

Snippet Time!
After lunch, Whitney sat on the dock behind their house dangling her feet in the cool water and spent the afternoon watching the kids swim. Zack and Blake were like fish. They jumped from the dock with whoops and hollers. Ashley stayed in the water dog-paddling within the security of a pink life jacket, just far enough away from the boys to avoid their splashes.
A quick dinner of chicken and rice and they were off to karate lessons. The dojo was a storefront in a small strip mall in the center of Bailey not far from the police station and Sadie’s Bar & Grill. Whitney was surprised she’d never noticed it before. A row of front windows held scattered quotes of concentration and serenity scrolled across it.
The interior wasn’t much more than a single large room lined with a thick matt. A small area at the back held a series of workout equipment and several tall, thickly padded posts were spread out in front of it like a small forest. A think braided rope hung down from the ceiling. The end was draped over the nearest padded pole. Three rows of toddlers all dressed in white with yellow or white belts stood at the center of the mat listening to a tall blonde man give instructions.
Several rows of metal folding chairs sat in front of the windows filled with parents and children of various ages. A tall man with coal black hair, charcoal eyes and biceps like a Mack truck strode toward them. Whitney stared at the V-neck of his white shirt where his rock hard muscles threatened to burst forth. He flashed a large smile full of perfect white teeth and offered her his hand. “Hello, I’m Heath Dixon, you must be Whitney Lawson. It’s so nice to meet you.” His deep voice sent shivers up her spine.
She took his hand. “Yes,” was all she could manage. When her eyes met his, her pulse raced. He had chiseled features and kind eyes. Stop it, she chided herself. What are you doing?
Heath knelt down on one knee and tilted his head as he looked at Blake. “You must be Blake.”
His little face beamed up at Heath. “Yes sir,” Blake answered offering Heath, his hand.
Heath chuckled and shook it gently. “You’re class is about to begin. Are you ready?”
Blake pulled himself into a stiff stance and said, “Yes sir.”
“Good,” Heath grinned at him. Turning to Zack who stood beside his brother Heath added, “I guess that means you’re Zack.”
Zack nodded and Heath shook his hand as well. “Welcome to Fighting Mountain Karate. Have you ever taken karate before?”
“No,” Zack answered meekly, “but Jake Taylor taught me some kicks.”
“Jake? That’s awesome; I’m going to show you a few more.” He rose as he finished. “Your class is right after Blake’s so you’ve got some time to try on your jacket and pants.”
He glanced past Whitney at the small pair of eyes that peeked out at him from behind her long shirt and asked, “Who have we got here?”
Whitney’s hand went to her stomach as she turned to face Ashley. “This is my daughter, Ashley,” she explained.
Ashley’s eyes were wide in awe as the large man knelt down next to her. “Welcome to my dojo Ashley,” Heath said softly. “I’m going to take you and your mom over to the reception desk to fill out some forms then you can sit and watch your brother’s lesson.”
Ashley nodded and looked up at Whitney. She smiled and touched the top of her head. Heath rose and touched the small of Whitney’s back as he motioned toward the reception desk at the other end of the row of windows. She nearly melted. Cut it out! It’s just your hormones running wild. Get a grip.

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Friday, October 9, 2015

Book Tour: Tillie's Tales By Mindy Mymudes


 
 




 
 
 
 


Book Synopsis:

Who is the mysterious ghosty haunting puppygirl Tillie? And why? George, the magical basset hound familiar is on the trail. 



About the Author:

I've worked in a hazardous waste lab, where under the sign for the Right To Know law, was added: if you can figure it out. I've been a metals tech, a bakery clerk, a professional gardener, and taught human anatomy and ran two university greenhouses. Along the way I picked up my Master's Degree in Biology, specializing in the population genetics of an endangered plant. I’ve also been a top breeder, handler, and trainer of English springer spaniels under the prefix of Muddy Paws. We three in the equivalent of the National Club's (ESSFTA) hall of fame. Every time I think I know dogs, another dog comes along and proves my beliefs are totally wrong. The truth is, the Muddy Paws Pack walk all over me.


Tell us a about yourself. 

Mindy: My background is very diverse. I have a degree in horticulture and a master’s degree in population genetics. I’ve worked in bakeries, metal labs, hazardous waste labs, a professor in anatomy, a greenhouse manager, and assorted other positions. I adore plants, dogs, and competitive dog sports.

George: I was born in a whelping box with my six puppy siblings. Auntie Heather picked me out as being the special basset hound I am.

 

How long have you been writing and what inspired you to write? 


Mindy: I haven’t been writing fiction for very long, maybe less than 10 years. In high school I took some creative writing courses, but generally I wrote non-fiction for journals and magazines. I was actually working on an article for a dog magazine when I decided to write about my whacko Muddy Paws Pack.

George: I don’t write, no fingers, no need, and us familiars have good memories and in stinks. When I realized how important my life was, I hired my secret-ary. I’m looking for a new one, this one doesn’t write fast enough. Are you interested in a job?

 

Tell me a little about your book.

Mindy: Once again, George has a mystery to solve. Tillie, the puppygirl that his packsibling Joey was given in “George Knows” attracts a ghost who haunts her. George has to find a way to make the ghost disappear. During his hunt for the answer, Auntie Heather and Karly, his Girlpup, witch-in-training, learn about some forgotten American History.

George: It’s about me, so it’s perfectly amazing.

Who has been your greatest writing inspiration? 


Mindy: There are so many authors I use as inspiration and use their books as texts. One my favorite inspirations is Temple Grandin. She writes non-fiction about animal behavior. Temple is a high functioning autistic who thinks much like the animals she studies. It’s helped me to view life more like a dog.

George: Dogs don’t read. We don’t need to. My greatest inspiration is myself.
 

Now a little more about you: If you were stranded on a desert island, what three items would you bring (excluding family, laptop, or writing utensils)? 


        Mindy:

1.    Plants, for food and decoration.

2.    Books. Or my phone. My phone, probably, because it holds a lot of books.

3.    Well, if I was stranded, I could call out, so I could be saved, but if I couldn’t get a signal, I’d need a generator or a solar battery to keep my phone charged. 

George: 

1.  Liver Brownies.

2.  Tuna Fudge

3.  My filled supper dish.

We find out the world is going to end tomorrow. How do you live your last day? 

Mindy: With my husband and dogs walking in the woods on a beautiful day.


George:  With my Karly and Auntie Heather and working on magic to save the world. I can do that. With my drool.


If we were to make a movie of your life. Who would play the part of you? 

        Mindy: Lucille Ball. She had red hair and she was funny.

George: There is only one me, so there is no one else that could play the part.

 

Tell us 5 random things about yourself. 

Mindy:

1.  I adore my husband, and we’ve been together over 30 years.

2.  I’m a second-generation English Springer breeder, owner, and trainer.

3.  I have three hundred indoor plants.

4.  I’m an AKC rally judge

5.  I have the best friends on the planet.


George: 

1.  I’m always right.

2.  No one is smarter than I am.

3.  Tuna fudge is my favorite treat.

4.  I’m a perfectly designed familiar.

5.  Liver brownies are my favorite treat.

 

What are the three places you have always wanted to visit but have not yet?

Mindy: I’d love to go to Scotland. What can I say, I like men in kilts. My husband Is part Scots, but he won’t even consider wearing one. I’d love to go to Greece for the history, and I’d like to see the Grand Canyon.

George: The love of my life, Phoebe’s house. The place my Pack hunts to bring home food. That place must be as amazing as myself. I don’t understand why they don’t take me there, I bet I could bag more food than they do.

 

Okay, crystal ball time. Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years?

Mindy: With my husband in an RV seeing the United States.

George:  What’s a year? Isn’t that how often I’m fed?




September 27 - Introduction at VBT Café Blog
September 29 - Interviewed at Author, CA Milson's Blog
October 2 - Interviewed at Avenue Books
October 2 - Spotlight at Cherry Mischievous
October 5 - Spotlight at 4Covert2Overt A Place In The Spotlight
October 7 - Reviewed at Voluptuous Book Diva
October 9 - Interviewed at Writers Revolution
October 12 - Interviewed at SolaFide Self-Publishing and Book Blog
October 12 - Guest Blogging at Bellevue Book Reviews
October 16 - Reviewed at Paranormal Romance and Authors That Rock
October 19 - Spotlight at Jody's Book Reviews
October 21 - Review & Guest Blogging at Teatime and Books
October 23 - Review & Interview at Deal Sharing Aunt
October 23 - Guest Blogging at Lori's Reading Corner
October 23 - Spotlight at My Book Tour
​October 23 - Guest Blogging at Infinite House Of Books 
 
 
 
 

Tuesday, October 6, 2015

Stormdancer By Joshua Pantalleresco



The Storm is here...

About Stormdancer:

Days after the events featured in The Watcher, the Watcher is taken hostage by a dragon, leaving Kristen, Will and Nicki alone in a strange new world. With no choice but to try and rescue their friend, Kristen and the others must travel through ancient cities, forgotten burial grounds, and eventually into the heart of the great storm.

Faced with the unknown, will they be able to traverse the storms that stand before them as well as ones within their own hearts?


Book Details:

Title: Stormdancer (Sequel to The Watcher)

Author Name:  Joshua Pantalleresco

Genre(s): Poetry, Sci-Fi, Dystopian

Tags: Poetry, Epic, Dystopian, Post-Apocalyptic, science-fiction, dragons

Length: Approx. 104 pages

E-book:  978-0-9947490-4-8
Paperback:  978-0-9947490-3-1

Release Date: October 1, 2015

Publisher:  Mirror World Publishing (http://www.mirrorworldpublishing.com/)

Appropriate for all ages from Young Adult to Adult.

Follow the Tour to Read Exclusive Excerpts, Guest Posts, and Reviews:

http://saphsbookblog.blogspot.com/2015/09/blog-tour-schedule-stormdancer-sequel.html

Read an Excerpt:

STORMS WITHIN

He ran
disappearing into the night
leaving us all alone

we tried to follow him
but were unsure of the trees and trails
we went slowly

we knew something had happened
when we found his blades in the forest
blackened and alone

he had come
like a force of nature
wrecking our lives
in the name of freedom
freedom from what?

the hollow embers and ashes we found
I didn't build them
those ruins were his story
not mine
never mine

I...was happy
yeah, I was happy
is there something wrong with that?

my parents loved me
I didn't care about anything else

the dragons were bastards
but I understood the game
the moves that could be made

with one flick of a blade
he changed all that
shattered the illusion with a roar of rebellion

now my life is here
in this forest
now he had vanished into the night
leaving me abandoned

leaving everything in shambles!



Excerpt:

I examine the sword
curved and round like the moon
it is entrenched in my ruined hearth
no power can help me lift it from the earth
it stands there
defiant
overpowering
 
the message is clear
a red haze beckons
I understand and nearly roar
I know you, I mutter to myself
I understand what you’re saying
 
you're bigger than me
stronger
you know where I live
and you can do this to me
 
I don't fear you
you think you are out there hunting me
but it's I who am hunting you
 
I look at my friends
and suddenly feel lost
what do I do with them?
this isn’t just my story anymore
 
there is so much they have not seen
or done
will they be safe without me?
 
will I really feel better seeking revenge?
I don’t know
I am angry and scared
savage and violent
without a clue what to do next
 
I look at my blackened blades
forever stained with the blood of dragons
they gleam
it had been a while since they feasted
tonight
they would do so again

so I run
Purchase Links:

Amazon
http://amzn.to/1jjBlnY

Mirror World Publishing
http://mirror-world-publishing.myshopify.com/products/stormdancer-e-book

Meet the Author:

Joshua Pantalleresco writes stuff. It's even on his business card. This is a succinct way of saying that in addition to writing poetry, he also does interviews, columns, comics, prose and anything possible with the written word. When he isn't writing, he's playing with podcasts, filming stuff, fiddling with alternative medicine, travelling, talking to people and pretending he is a rockstar. Stormdancer is his second book through Mirror World Publishing. He lives in Calgary.

Friday, October 2, 2015

Holiday Promo Blitz



We are only a few months away from the winter holidays, and The Writers Revolution is already getting in a festive mood. So we are doing something different for the month of December. We will be showcasing a different author all month long.


 Each day will be devoted that author and will post either an author spotlight, excerpt, teaser, book trailer, guest post, interview, and/or review. We will run this promo from December 1st to the 31st (with the exception of Christmas Day, December 25th) **See bottom of the post for the sign-up form.


To add to the fun, The Writers Revolution along with Phoenix Entertainment and Development will be hosting an Author Takeover event the weekend of December 11th-13th.




Sign-up form for the Holiday Promo Blitz
 
Takeover Event
 
You may also email us at Iamphoenix13@gmail.com