The Fulfillment Series

The Fulfillment Series

Wednesday, February 22, 2017

Ghost Touch by LA Dragoni

Today, I have the pleasure of hosting my friend LA Dragoni on the site! She's talking about her paranormal romance book Ghost Touch, which is part of the Touched by Afterlife series!


 For fifteen minutes each night a portal opens in Tamara’s barn and a horde of ghosts spills into her yard. She and Dex work together to find a way to help Cal and the thousands of spirits stuck in the void to cross over. When she learns she has the ghost touch—the ability to touch the ghosts as if they were corporeal—and she accidentally helps a little boy cross, she believes it might be possible. But not all the spirits play nice and when they learn they can sip energy from her ghost touch, they become greedy putting her life at risk.

Each time Cal has to pull her from the mass of ghosts, her touch restores him more and more until he is at danger of being stuck on earth—forever, which is very enticing to Tamara the better she knows him. Will she and Dex figure out how to help the spirits cross and if they do, will she be able to let Cal go?

Available in print, ebook, and audiobook from Amazon,
Also available on Barnes and Noble, Kobo, iTunes, and other e-tailers.


Excerpt:

The knot of ghosts hissed and shrieked as they chased her. Seeing they’d already changed direction, she dug her fingers into the grass to pull herself away from them. Her legs were as shaky as a newborn foal and even crawling was too much effort. Ruff stood next to her, barking, but she knew he’d have no effect. He couldn’t even touch the ghouls.
Then they were on her. Petting and pulling, stroking and grabbing at her arms, legs, clothes, hair. Their chatter became excited, reminding her of a pack of hyenas. She buried her head under her arms wishing…praying they’d go away.
“Get off her!”
Was that Cal? Tamara raised her head as much as she could, but was still buried in spirits. She got a glance at a familiar face before the writhing group closed in again. Was that the drowned ghost? She looked less bloated.
“Leave her. This will not help. Get away.”
Slowly the weight lifted from her until she felt only one pair of hands grasping her upper arms. Gentle and caring, not demanding.
“Cal,” she croaked, struggling to raise her head and open her eyes.
“Come on, Tamara. You need to get up.”
Her eyelids were so heavy. She couldn’t hold them open. Couldn’t make her neck cooperate so she could look at Cal.
“Tamara, you need to move him. I can’t touch him.”
“Let go of me Cal. You’re making it worse. I think.” Even speaking drained her of energy. It took all she had just to force the words out, but when Cal let go of her, she felt a difference immediately. It was as if her strength no longer leaked out of her extremities. Unfortunately her tank didn’t seem to be refilling very fast. “I…it’s…it’s better. Give me a minute.”
“We don’t really have a minute, Tamara.”

Reviews:

LA Dragoni's GHOST TOUCH got me out of my paranormal romance funk in which I felt like I was reading the same book over and over again. The ghost part with the portal opening in Tamara's barn was vividly described and equal parts cool and terrifying, but it was really Tamara's poignant emotional journey that spoke to me.

 -Katie

About the Author: 

LA Dragoni isn’t too particular about who falls in love or where they fall in love. She simply considers it her job to capture the story about their love. Whether it’s paranormal, mythical, or time travel, LA will be there to divine their story for you. She lives in Central Oregon with her husband and children, but haunts ghost towns and cemeteries up and down the west, in search of the next adventure to sift through her storytelling brain. Follow LA on Facebook and Twitter. Subscribe to her mailing list and learn more about LA and her work at www.ladragoni.com

Monday, February 20, 2017

The Importance of Quality Covers

Hello, everyone! So, since I've teamed up with the AMAZING Anya and Anita for the Rhewbix Cube project, I'd like to talk to you about quality edits and covers. Today, I'll start with covers.

As you know, I'm the author of The Fulfillment Series. When I imagined holding the books in my hands for the very first time, I had a very specific design for the covers, but I didn't know if anyone could actually bring it to life.

So, the cover artists (my old publisher used two different people) who originally worked on my series gave these two covers for the first two books.



*Please note: I'm not posting these to disparage the press or the cover artists but to provide a vivid visual difference.

Okay, I'll admit, when I saw the first cover for the first time, I cried. Not "OMG, my first cover" but "OMG, it's nothing like what I'd hoped." I texted my Dream Team and my critique partners (even my mom) a picture, and they all tried to make me feel better. But it wasn't even close to the vision I had. 

There is nothing quite as heart-wrenching and disappointing as trying to promote a book whose cover makes you cry ugly tears of disappointment. However, I soldiered on and did my due diligence, promoting the heck of that book anyway. But I will tell you, it hurt my heart to see it out there in world, representing the story I'd worked so hard on.

And then came the second book cover. It didn't match the first book at all. In fact, no one would know they were from the same series, even if they sat side-by-side on a bookshelf. And with the crown of thorns, it had distinctly a religious undertone that didn't fit the story. 

I'd been asked for input on these covers. I filled out super long questionnaires from the publisher, asking me about different aspects of my novel, but the covers didn't represent my book nor the information I had provided.

When the time came for me to decide what to do with the series, I considered both self-publishing and shopping for another small press. And soon, the opportunity for me to sign with another small press presented itself. At first, I was really reluctant, but then, I discovered that Anita Carroll designed their covers.

I went on her website and sat in awe of her indescribable talent:





I mean WOW!! Look at the mastery here. The emotion Anita's covers evoke is just beyond explanation. And she spends a lot of time blending to make sure the words look like they're a part of the image instead of just being placed on top of it. She once told me she spent seven (7!!) hours blending a cover to make it just right. That's quality and devotion to art right there!!

Since I knew my book cover would be in good hands with Anita, I signed with the small press. And I had the distinct pleasure of working with Anita one-on-one. She *read* my books so she'd be familiar with them, and only then did she start the cover design. We went back and forth on ideas until we came up with the perfect one.






The books are BREATHTAKING!! When I'm at ComicCons or author signing events, people come from across the room to see them. And once they get to my table, they seem compelled to pick my books up and read the back. That's what every author wants, right? That's what covers should do, right?

And they definitely look like they're part of the same series. Each book has the same underlying theme and tone, with subtle differences.

In addition, they adequately represent my book. Anyone who sees them will know they're fantasy novels, no question. That's another super important element of a cover...to accurately convey the theme of the book.

For example, one of my friends had a book cover that did not represent her book. She wrote a story about witches. In fact, her book has been compared to Practical Magic

Here is the cover of Practical Magic:


Obviously about witches, right? 

Well, here's the old cover my friend's publisher selected for her book:


Nothing about that cover says witches. In fact, she struggled to get the message of her book across to readers. People assumed it was a middle grade or young adult "coming of age" story due to the cartoonish nature of it and the young appearance of the people in the image.

So, if you're thinking of self-publishing your book, make sure you choose a cover artist who will a) work to understand your story and your vision b) keep your theme consistent throughout a series c) make sure your cover conveys the message, theme, and genre of your story  d) create covers people are drawn to. 

If you're going to sign with a small press, make sure they have quality cover artists. Peruse their current books and ask yourself if the covers intrigue or repel you. 

For those considering self-publication, I highly recommend Anita. In fact, she's so amazing, I asked her team up with me to offer a special package called the Rhewbix Cube, which includes a reduced rate for edits, a cover, and formatting. Check that out here: Rhewbix Cube Offer

Until next time...may beautiful covers decorate your life and bookshelves! ;) 

Wednesday, February 15, 2017

She Wants It All -- Jessica Calla

Cover Reveal! SHE WANTS IT ALL (Book 3, Sheridan Hall Series)

Author: Jessica Calla
Genre: NA Romance
Release Date: May 16, 2017
Publisher: BookFish Books
Cover Designer: Anita B. Carroll, Race-Point US



About She Wants it All...

Happy to sing cover songs with his band and float through New Jersey University with little to no effort, Dave Novak spends the first week of college partying. Then he meets Maggie Patrinski. Performing on stage in front of hundreds is easy for Dave, but the mere thought of Maggie sends his heart racing and turns him into a bumbling idiot. Even so, he can’t get her out of his mind.


Maggie’s not exactly thrilled when her roommate sets her up with Second Floor Dave, the hottie with a reputation. Not only has she just had her heart broken, but she’s vying for a competitive summer internship and studying to become a vet. She doesn’t have time for guys and isn’t interested in falling in love, especially when she may be moving across the country for the summer.


But as Maggie gets to know Dave, his charm wins her over and she falls hard and fast. The problem? Maggie has goals, Dave doesn’t. Maggie studies, Dave doesn’t. Maggie wants it all, Dave only wants her. With their summer plans up in the air and past mistakes creeping back into their lives, their future together is uncertain. The only thing they’re sure of is that when they’re together, they’re better.

Other Books In the Sheridan Hall Series...

SHE LAUGHS IN PINK (Book 1, Sheridan Hall Series)

SHE RUNS AWAY (Book 2, Sheridan Hall Series)


About the Author...

Jessica Calla is a contemporary romance, new adult, and women's fiction author who moonlights during the day as an attorney. If she's not writing, lawyering, or parenting, you'll most likely find her at the movies, scrolling through her Twitter feed, or gulping down various forms of caffeine (sometimes all three at once).


Jessica is a member of Romance Writers of America, involved in the Contemporary, Young Adult, and New Jersey Chapters, and is a member of the Women’s Fiction Writers Association. A Jersey girl through and through, she resides in the central part of the state with her husband, two sons, and dog.











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Monday, February 13, 2017

Erin Rhew Editing and Design

I've been pondering this option for a while, and I finally decided to take the leap! Woot! I'm pleased to announce you can now get line and copy editing and/or your eBook and print book design from ME! Yeppers! Me!


My nerdy look makes it all official!

Why me? Well, you can check out my credentials on my website, but I've got the creds you're looking for. ;) Yep, and I'm an uber nerd too. Bonus!


And while that is a whole bunch of exciting, I've got even more thrilling news!! I've teamed up with two of the most awesome professionals in this business to bring you something new and different in the self-publishing world...the Rhewbix Cube.


What is the Rhewbix Cube? Dear reader, I'm glad you asked. It's a comprehensive program created to meet all of your self-publishing needs. You write the book, and we'll take care of all the editing, cover design, and book design. 

You'll get one of the top content editors, one of the best cover designers in the business, and me for your line/copy editing and book design needs. It's a three-in-one deal...hence, the cube part of Rhewbix Cube. I'll be revealing the identities of my partners very soon. But until then, check out my website for more details and GET EXCITED, PEOPLE! We're rhew-volutionizing the self-publishing process!!


If you're in the market for editing or book design, feel free to send me an email to discuss your project. I look forward to working with you!


As always, I've got to give props to the love of my life. I'm beyond thankful to always have his support, encouragement, and love any time I spread my wings. Yep, I'm going to go there because a) I'm rindok excited and b) I'm a cornball. Deek, you are the wind beneath my wings. In all seriousness, thank you for being you...THE most wonderful man to ever walk the planet. I adore you more than words could ever, ever express!!


Until next time, friends, WRITE ON! 
PS. I leave you with cute animal pictures...



Tuesday, February 7, 2017

An Alternative to Valentine's Day Take 2

Y'all V-Day (LOL) is rolling up on us soon, and last night, I read my post from last year. If I do say so myself, it's a right good post, so I'm just going to put it up again, in case anyone needs to hear it again.

Deek is THE most amazing husband. Everything I said in this post, he still does this year and then some (he's always coming up with new, creative ways to show he cares). When we got married, he's promised to always date me and never assume he "had" me. And he's a man of his word. I can't even begin to explain to you how incredibly thankful I am to be married to this incredible, incredible man!


I LOVE YOU, DEEK!



An Alternative To Valentine's Day

Hello, friends! So, I'm sure you've been to the stores and seen the Valentine's Day decor and cards lining the shelves. In fact, I think it started the day after Christmas, right? So crazy!

Well, I'll be honest, I'm not a big fan of Valentine's Day. Please note, I'm a "to each his own" type chick, so no judgement here from people who choose the traditional celebratory methods. You go on with your awesome self. BUT, I personally prefer a different type of celebration, which I'd like to share.

For me, the whole concept of taking a day to celebrate your special person doesn't make sense. Shouldn't you do that every day? Every day, Deek goes out of his way to make me feel special, and I do my best to do the same for him. On any given day, he'll tell me how beautiful I am, bring me a cup of tea "just because," leave me a little love note, bring me my breakfast, and a million other things. And I do the same for him--surprise him at work with a treat, send him texts with love memes, leave notes on his car (back when we had two cars--LOL), tell him how handsome he is and how much I appreciate what he does for our family, greet him at the door when he comes home from work with a big hug and kiss. We don't wait for a special day to do those things. It's about living and loving out loud every single day.

From me to Deek

From Deek to me


And every night, we lie in bed, face-to-face, and talk about everything and nothing. We share our random thoughts, talk about our day, discuss our books, discuss the origins of the word "fork," and a myriad of other entertaining things. But we make the time to connect every day. In the hustle and bustle of life, it's easy to let your significant other get lost in the shuffle, but try not to. This is the person you've committed your life and heart to. Make sure that person knows he/she is a priority above all else.

I love our face-to-face time!

In our house, Valentine's Day will be pretty much like any other day. Deek and I will be together, loving one another and expressing our love. I'll admit we may splurge on a pizza and a Reese's Cup and watch a romantic movie because it's fun, but the core of our encounters will remain the same. I don't see the point in the traditional gifts. Jewelry can only be worn sparingly (I mean, how many occasions does one have that call for diamond earrings?). Stuffed animals fill the house and collect dust. Copious amounts of sweets derails healthy eating habits. Expensive meals are a drain on the budget and a "one and done" thing. And flower, OMG...flowers. They DIE. I can't help but think of a line in Romeo and Juliet when people receive flowers: "O', swear not by the moon, the inconstant moon that monthly changes in her circled orb. Lest that thy love proves likewise variable." Juliet is begging Romeo not to swear his love by the moon because the moon changes, and she doesn't want a changing, or variable, love. Flowers die...what does that say about love? Eep! 

Last year's V-Day goodies at the Rhew house

So, here's an alternative way to think of Valentine's Day. Have you ever heard of The Five Love Languages? If not, give it a read. I had to read it during college for my Relational Communication class, and it's a truly wonderful book. It talks about (obviously) the 5 love languages people have:




1) Acts of Service-- This person feels loved the most when someone does something for them.

2) Words of Affirmation--This person feels love the most when you say good things/nice things to them and build them up.

3) Quality Time--This person feels love the most when you spent one-on-one time with them, no other distractions.

4) Gifts--This person feels love the most when you give them gifts. Please note, it's NOT about the amount of money with these folks. It's about the fact you knew them enough to know what they'd like and that you took the time to go out of your way to get it/make it for them. (Sorry, ladies, no "My love language is gifts, so I need these humongous diamond earrings!" Doesn't work that way.)

5) Physical Touch--This person feels love the most when you touch them. Please note, it's NOT about sex. (Sorry, guys, no "My love language is physical touch, so we should have sex." Doesn't work that way.)

I'll give you some examples. My best friend's love language is gifts. So, I make sure to give her meaningful things (like a framed pic of us, a book about landscape photography, a free hair dye at the stylist, etc) that show her I know her and what she'd like. My father is a physical touch person. So, I also make sure to hug him often. I have a special person in my life who likes acts of service, so I leave notes and offer to do things for her. Another special person in my life is words of affirmation, so I'm cognizant of that and use my words to build her up and tell her she's amazing (and it's true because she is!). Luckily, my husband and I are both quality time, so we make an effort to spend as much time as possible together. We don't always have to be engrossed in deep conversation, but we want to be together. 

Quality Time with my most wonderful hubs!


Not everyone is as lucky as we are to have a spouse with the same love language. Often times, significant others have differing love languages, and that makes it difficult to meet the needs of the other person. But, one easy way to tell what your person's love language is: watch them. Whatever they're trying to show you is mostly likely their own love language, and they're hoping you'll do it back to them. So, if your lady is always cleaning up for you or making you special meals, she's probably an acts of service person. Try doing that for her instead. Or if your fella is always complimenting you and talking about how awesome you are, he's probably a words of affirmation person. Try doing that for him instead. 

The Dream Team
We're all friends, but we all have different love languages and different specific needs.

So, this Valentine's Day, instead of joining the rat race with cards, flowers, candy, jewelry, and stuffed animals, try speaking to your significant other's love language. Here are some ideas:

1) Acts of Service-- Pick a chore or activity you know your person doesn't like to do, and do it for him/her. Cook their favorite meal for dinner. Call your person and tell them you'll take care of a particular errand they've been meaning to run. 

2) Word of Affirmation--Leave a love note on the bathroom mirror or by the coffee pot. Write up a list of all the things you love about your significant other. Tell your person thank you for the things they do for you or your family that you really appreciate. 

3) Quality Time--Turn off all electronic devices and just sit and talk to your person. Go for a walk or to get coffee. Lie in bed, face-to-face, and chat. 

4) Gifts--Make this person something that will be meaningful. Or, if you must go out and spend money on something, make it personalized. Think back to a time when your person said, "Hey, that's a beautiful quilt," and go get that instead of the stock flowers, jewelry, and candy. Let that person know this gift is only for them and couldn't be for anyone else. Let's say you bought flowers and candy for every girlfriend of boyfriend you ever had, what makes this person special? The people are interchangeable because the gifts are the same. Make sure this person knows he/she is not interchangeable. 

5) Physical Touch--Spend time wrapped up in each other's arms. Sit close together, holding hands while you watch a movie together. Give the person a massage. 

And I encourage you to do these things for your partner long after the Valentine's Day decor fades from the stores. Do it while the Easter stuff is out, the July 4th flags fly, the Halloween pumpkins decorate the porches, the turkeys of Thanksgivings roast, and the tinsel of Christmas drapes on evergreens. Every day. 

Show your person how much you love them every day.

I'm blessed beyond measure to be Deek's wife. He knows my love language is quality time, and he gives me that in spades. But he always takes little snippets of the other love languages and showers me with those too: brings me tea (acts of services), massages my sore shoulder (physical touch), tells me I'm beautiful (words of affirmation), surprises me with a cup of coffee from Starbucks (gifts). When we were dating, I kept asking him if this wonderful relationship we shared would fade in marriage, and he told me he'd work to make sure it never did. He promised to always date me and always put the effort into keeping us close. And he has. 

Special delivery!

Your person is your person for a reason. Take a long look at them and remember why you fell in love. Remember how it felt to be close. And make it happen again. Put in the time and the effort to keep your relationship strong. Friends, parents, children, and family will come and go, but this person is your person for life.

To Deek: Thank you for being you--the most wonderful man, husband, and partner ever! I dreamed of a life like ours, but the reality is a bazillon times better. I love you #always! Your e