Kasper's Ramblings from Kasper Beaumont - Kasper Beaumont

Kasper Beaumont

2nd story is even better. My review of Katie Cherry's Dragon Soul.

12/27/2019

Woot! So pleased Katie Cherry did a sequel and I hear there's another one coming.

Dragon Soul, published in 2019.

Synopsis: Can peace be found among humans when you bear the soul of a dragon?

It’s been two years since Myra decided to leave the life of a dragon, preferring to slide back into the comfort of the human experience. Little does she know, her past is about to come knocking…

When Rhys shows up on her doorstep, wounded and begging for help, she knows that despite her choice two years ago, she still needs to save her clan from the danger they’ve found themselves in. And, thanks to a past she knew nothing about, she may be the only one with the ability to find the Elder Dragons and request their aid.

Finding the Elders is one thing. Getting them to help her may be another, thanks to their distaste for mutts. Can she survive the trials they set before her, and prove that her soul is that of a dragon’s?

Or will Myra’s time run out, leaving her clan at the edge of utter destruction… all thanks to her?

My review: 5 stars. onward and upwards, this book soars.

Dragon Blood introduced us to Myra who was fated to turn into a dragon. If you haven't read it, then do yourselves a favour and grab that one before reading on.

Book two: Dragon Soul builds on the first one nicely and finds Myra running scared from her true nature and pretending to be a human. I do feel sorry for her boyfriend, Adam, who clearly has no idea who she really is.
Enter love interest from book 1, Rhys who needs her help to rescue some dragons in danger and Myra leaps into action - leaping with leathery wings does sound fun.
I like that the dragon lore in the 2nd book builds on the first, introducing new characters, The Elders and new dragon powers. We also have familiar characters such as Rhys and his clan.
As with the first story, it is a bit short and characters would benefit from a longer story and delving deeper into their traits and personalities. I'm not a big fan of novellas, but think the author does a great job of giving us a complete story and still waiting more at the end.
I can't say more without spoilers, but if you liked the first one, then this is 5 times better. Super!

Katie Cherry's deets:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1275626482623759/
Instagram: @katiecherryfantasy
Amazon Dragon Blood: https://amzn.to/2sbQAd3
Amazon Dragon Soul: https://amzn.to/378Cqbp

Check out my review of this great dragon read from Katie Cherry #dragons #FSFRL

12/26/2019

I read this cool book and then spoke to the author about it and she said she had a personal connection to parts of the main character. That makes it all the more special for me. Knowing that they have both overcome similar challenges. I hope you enjoy this story as much as I did.

Dragon Blood by Katie Cherry, published 2019.

Synopsis: The path of her destiny is written within her blood.
Myra is a carefree twenty-two year old who prefers to stay out of trouble. Unfortunately, all it takes is one night, one decision, and her life changes forever.
On her way home after a night out with friends, Myra runs into the Denver Demons—a dangerous gang of men known for their glowing eyes thought to be simple colored contacts. It’s only after being kidnapped that Myra discovers who and what they truly are. Mutts. Half human, half dragon, and they want something from her—something hidden in her blood. Turns out she’s a mutt herself, and they need her dragon power in order to become stronger.
Saved by a group of dragons determined to fight the Denver Demons, Myra is dragged into a world that should have belonged to fantasy. Now she must decide whether she wants to return to her human life, or embrace the dragon inside her.

Review: You had me at dragons.

I really enjoyed the premise of this book that dragons are living amongst us and anyone could be one. Turns out it’s not actually everyone, only a select few, but I hope I’ll turn out to be one of the lucky ones who turns into a dragon.

Young Myra has no idea of her destiny but feels that something in her life is not quite right. Luckily, she meets a group of people who are privy to the big dragon mystery and can help her explore their world.

This short novella starts a little slowly but builds nicely and I found it quite satisfying. The support characters don’t get a lot of time or development, but I think it could be the beginning of a great novel or series. Myra and Rhys are cute together. I smiled when she thought he smelled like a forest after rain, but that obviously is attractive to Myra. She seems like a real sweetheart.

I enjoyed the way dragons were portrayed and also the experience of flight. One of those abilities I wish I had.

The ending was good, and I didn’t want it to stop. Good news, so many of us enjoyed the novella that Katie Cherry is now making a series. If you liked it too, please check them out.

Katie Cherry's deets:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1275626482623759/
Instagram: @katiecherryfantasy
Amazon Dragon Blood: https://amzn.to/2sbQAd3
Amazon Dragon Soul: https://amzn.to/378Cqbp

End of year goodies from C.L. Schneider #fantasy #paranormal @cl_schneider #FSFRL

12/23/2019

Exciting news today from fellow fantasy / paranormal author, CL Schneider

Series Starter Sale

It’s time to fill that new Kindle and burn through those gift cards! But what to buy?
Epic or Urban? Magic or Mystery? Why not both?
**For a Limited Time**
The award-winning first books in both series by fantasy author, C. L. Schneider, are ONLY .99 EACH on Kindle!

The Crown of Stones: Magic Price (Book #1)
For ten years, Ian Troy has been running from the blood in his veins and on his hands, but the past is catching up. To save the realms, and those he cares for, he must embrace the one thing he fears most: his own power. Like your fantasy adult, epic, and dark? http://mybook.to/COSTrilogy
Flash Point: Nite Fire (Book #1)

She hunts what lurks in the shadows, threatening an unsuspecting human race. But when a series of brutal murders strike the human city she’s come to love, light is shed on what should never be seen. And the little bit of peace she’s found in this world begins to crumble. Hungry for a different kind of dragon story? http://mybook.to/NFseries

*Kindle Countdown Sale is for Amazon US/UK from December 26 until midnight Jan 2. Both series are also available for FREE with Kindle Unlimited. For more information on the author, please visit her website http://www.clschneiderauthor.com

Sponsored links:

An author interview from Germany. The exciting Nadja Losbohm #fantasy #FSFRL #darkfantasy

12/7/2019

Author bio: Nadja Losbohm was born on December 14th, 1982 and lives in Berlin, Germany. Her first fantasy adventure novel was published in 2012. Since then she has published the popular series of fantasy romance books "The Huntress". In German there are parts 1-6 available. "The Huntress - The Beginnings" is the first part of the series and the first English book Nadja Losbohm has published. The 2nd part of the series can be found as a free read on Inkitt.

Nadja also published a German children's book with short stories and poems for kids. Her collection of fairy tales about the magic of books for readers of all age earned her a nomination for the “Deutsche Phantastik Preis 2017” in the category “Best German Anthology”. “The Magical Mirrors” and “The Lord of Books”, both stories from that book, can be found in English on Inkitt. Nadja also published a historic dark fantasy series and is currently working on the 2nd part of it. “Chwedlau Tywyll – Dunkle Maerchen (Dark Tales)” is Nadja’s 13th publication.

· Book title: Chwedlau Tywyll – Dunkle Maerchen (Dark Tales)
· Genre: Dark Urban Fantasy

· Synopsis: Emotions - they are versatile, complex and unsteady like the weather. Laughter and cheerfulness do not always prevail, but nobody admits it. More people than you can imagine have to struggle with dark thoughts and dark feelings. That is why the collection of dark fairy tales deals with these. With a touch of Celtic mythology, set in a bygone era but more relevant than ever, the varied short stories shine a light on many aspects of life that not many dare to talk about, not forgetting that in the end a little bit of humor do good. The anthology closes with the author's comments on the motivations for the book, the making of the stories, the inspiration for the subjects and honest words.

· Publish date: October 16th, 2019
· Publisher: selfpublishing

Author Interview with Nadja Losbohm

Regular visitors to Kasper's Ramblings may remember Nadja stopping by a few years ago when her first novel was translated into English. I'm pleased to welcome her back and celebrate her now 13-book catalogue. Welcome Nadja.

What was the defining event that made you start writing?
I started to write my first fantasy adventure novel when I was nineteen. I always liked to be creative; I painted and drew a lot as a kid thanks to my parents who both were painters themselves when they were young. It was because of an artist/actor who did so many different things - painting, acting, music, photography – why I wanted to try something new. And for me that was writing.
Great work. You obviously have the talented and passion for it.

What other writing have you done?
So far I wrote thirteen books, most of them in German as it is my mother tongue. The list of my writing includes a fantasy adventure, a young adult fantasy romance series, a children’s book, an anthology with fairy tales for readers of all age, a historical dark fantasy series and an anthology with dark urban fantasy tales for adults. But I also published the first part of my fantasy romance series in English (available on Amazon) and the second part can be found as a free read on Inkitt, where you can also find a couple of English short stories I translated with the help of wonderful and generous people such as Kris Holt and Marc Remus.

What makes your writing unique compared to others in the genre?
I think what makes it unique is that I write about things other people avoid. My writing is very honest, sincere, emotionally. I write about putting an end to your life, despair, fear, depression, hopelessness. I experienced all of that about three, four years ago and am still suffering from lack of energy and an anxiety disorder because of a traumatic event. I know what it’s like when no one is there to help you. Instead people sneer at you, saying: “Pull yourself together. It’s not that bad.” Our society only wants to see, hear and read happy things. It’s not allowed to cry in public. And no one dares to admit: “I feel miserable. I have problems and sorrows.” But that’s just wrong and can lead to a very bad end. I hope to encourage people to reflect and to maybe change their way of thinking.
That's very brave of you to share those feelings in your writing. Congratulations.

What’s the story behind your book title?
My book “Chwedlau Tywyll – Dunkle Maerchen (Dark Tales)” includes seven short stories with a touch of Celtic mythology. The settings are all in Wales. I use quite a few Welsh names in the stories and I began to really like the language. So, I thought a Welsh title would be nice. There’s also something mysterious and enigmatic about it. And maybe it also reflects my deep wish to travel to that country.

Have you used any real events or places as inspiration for your writing?
Absolutely. There are a couple of real places I mention such as “Pen y Fan”, “Arthog Bog” or “Carew” in Wales.
Wow, those names are fascinating. You must have spent much time there.

What advice would you give to someone wanting to write a book?
Read. Read a lot. Because when you do, you get a feel for how to use words. I also recommend to write whatever YOU want and not what others want you to write. I was often told to write other stories, as mine are too special. But I cannot do that as my writing wouldn’t be authentic anymore.

What music do you listen to when writing?
At the moment, I often listen to the album by “Skáld”, a band from France, who revives the old Nordic mythology.

What are you working on now?
I’m working on the second part of my historic fantasy series. But I’m very, very slow – unfortunately.

What do you do when you have writers’ block?
I had a huge writers’ block about two years ago. My life was turned upside down; I had lost all of my energy and joie de vivre. I wanted to write, but I couldn’t. Then someone told me it’s not the right time to write but to recover. I was told I should wait and that’s what I did: I waited and then the joy came back – at the right time – and I could write again. I’m not fully recovered, but at least I write every now and then, trying my best to fight for what I love to do.

How did you go about developing your stunning cover artwork?
The cover for “Chwedlau Tywyll – Dunkle Maerchen (Dark Tales)” was designed by Kathy from Epic Moon Coverdesign. Usually I have an idea what the cover should look like. This time it was different. I didn’t know from the beginning what I wanted. All I knew was I didn’t want any clichéd Welsh or Celtic things and that the cover didn’t need to be dark. So, Kathy had full rein basically. Without knowing the book she used little elements that represent small things from the stories. I really love that and it’s like magic.
Sounds like she understood the story well, which is great. I love it.

List some great books you have recently read:
“Amy Snow” by Tracy Rees, “The Toymakers” by Robert Dinsdale, the “Harry Potter”-series. ;-)

What’s your dream job and do you think you’ll do it one day?
I wished I could make a living from writing, but I think that won’t happen.
You just never know.

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not writing?
I‘m a huge book lover. I also like to go for walks, just enjoying nature, or to watch “The Vampire Diaries” on DVD.

What’s your experience of the Fantasy Sci-Fi Readers’ Lounge?
The Fantasy Sci-Fi Readers’ Lounge is a wonderful place for all who love books. It’s fantastic to see the reader-author-interaction and what they can achieve together.

Quick quiz:
Favourite thing to cook: Asian cuisine
Silliest saying: “If you’d love me, you would do that for me” – me trying to get my will. ;-)
Best holiday spot: Great Britain
Most played song: At the moment, it’s “Hross” by Skáld. Very inspiring.
With writing, are you a plotter or (seat-of-your) pantser? A pantser
Do you prefer to read SciFi or fantasy: Fantasy
Best superpower: “painting pictures” with words
Number one thing to do on your bucket list: To travel to Wales, New Zealand or Maine

Well, we've come to an end, Nadja. Thanks so much for sharing your story.
Readers, please take at look at Nadja's information below and visit one of her sites.

Links
Twitter: https://twitter.com/nadlo82
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Nadja-Losbohm/e/B009SIDWIW
Amazon new release: https://amzn.to/2Rw6sB7
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nadjalosbohm

List of books by Nadja Losbohm

German fantasy books
Alaspis – Die Suche nach der Ewigkeit
Die Jägerin – Die Anfänge
Die Jägerin – Blutrausch
Die Jägerin – Vergangenheit und Gegenwart
Die Jägerin – Unter der Erde
Die Jägerin – Die Wiege des Bösen
Die Jägerin – In Alle Ewigkeit
Die Tagebücher des Michael Iain Ryan (Band 1)
Chwedlau Tywyll – Dunkle Märchen (Anthology)

German children books
Hamster Stopfdichvoll & seine Freunde
Die Magie der Bücher (Anthology)

English fantasy books
The Huntress (pt 1) – The Beginnings (Kindle read only)
The Huntress (pt 2) – Bloodlust (free read on Inkitt)

Other publications
The Magical Mirrors (fairy tale, short story, free read on Inkitt)
The Lord of Books (fairy tale, short story, free read on Inkitt)

This is a group for the readers, by the readers, and all about the readers! We are excited you’re joining us and look forward to getting to know you. The Lounge welcomes all readers and wants each and every one to find a comfortable reading nook here.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/FantasySciFiReadersLounge/

Kasper reviews Maleficent: Mistress of Evil #Maleficent #movies #review

10/20/2019

Movie synopsis: In Disney's "Maleficent: Mistress of Evil," a sequel to the 2014 global box office hit, Maleficent and her goddaughter Aurora begin to question the complex family ties that bind them as they are pulled in different directions by impending nuptials, unexpected allies and dark new forces at play. The years have been kind to Maleficent and Aurora. Their relationship, born of heartbreak, revenge and ultimately love, has flourished. Yet the hatred between man and the fairies still exists. Aurora's impending marriage to Prince Phillip is cause for celebration in the kingdom of Ulstead and the neighboring Moors, as the wedding serves to unite the two worlds. When an unexpected encounter introduces a powerful new alliance, Maleficent and Aurora are pulled apart to opposing sides in a Great War, testing their loyalties and causing them to question whether they can truly be family.

KASPER'S REVIEW: OK, so there may be a couple of little spoilers here, but nothing you wouldn't get from a quick Google search of the movie. I won't tell the ending or anything.

Ooh, I did enjoy Maleficent 2: Mistress of Evil. From the original movie, we learned the our queen of darkness does have various shades of grey plus a big old soft spot for her adopted daughter, Little Beasty. Now the girl, known as Aurora, is all grown up and in love with the handsome and kind Prince Phillip.
While everything seems nice from Phillip's family at first, Queen Ingrid soon reveals her darker desires of hatred and conflict. Michelle Pfeiffer does a great job as the queen who is so fearful of the fae, she is reluctant to have the daughter of the Moors marry into her family. Strong themes of race and prejudice here.
Angelina Jolie is as gorgeous as ever in her returning role as Maleficent, who is determined to protect her fae peoples at all costs.
Throw a Romeo and Juliet-type wedding into this seething cauldron and you have the makings of a great movie.
I did find it slow to start with a few too many Days-of-our-Lives type of stares and overacted expressions, it soon whisked me away and it didn't feel like 3 hours long at all. The beautiful sights and costumes juxtaposed with dark fae themes made for a visually splendid experience.

Highlights for me were the scenery and special effects with some many gorgeous fae creatures, including new ones.
Maleficent's quest continues to a new realm and new winged creatures which I absolutely adored.
Would I take little kiddies? Hmm, probably my 11 year old wouldn't like the violence and dark themes, but many kiddies in the cinema seemed to be enjoying it. Go, try it.

Fun times in the Readers Lounge with Marie Andreas @MarieAndreas1 #FSFRL #fantasy #humor

10/3/2019

Author bio: Marie is a multi-award winning fantasy and science fiction writer with a serious reading addiction. If she wasn't writing about all the people in her head, she'd be lurking about coffee shops annoying total strangers with her stories. So really, writing is a way of saving the masses.
She has a completed space opera trilogy, The Asarlaí Wars, a completed six-book fantasy series, The Lost Ancients, and a steampunk series, The Adventures of Smith & Jones which will be continued in late 2019 with The Mayhem of Mermaids..
When not saving the masses from coffee shop shenanigans, Marie likes to visit the UK and keeps hoping someone will give her a nice summer home in the Forest of Dean or in northern Wales. Marie is also a member of SFWA (Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America) and RWA (Romance Writers of America).

· Book title: The Diamond Sphinx- Book Six of The Lost Ancients
· Genre: Humorous fantasy
· Synopsis: Magic, mayhem, murder, relics, true love, and drunken faeries. Taryn St. Giles has had a very eventful year. And the troubles are just beginning. Taryn has been through a year of changes—to her and her world. As a digger, she’d searched through the past to find out who the missing elves and Ancients had been. Now she knows the elves and they are helping her uncover the secrets of the Ancients. Secrets she’s not sure she wants to know. A few too many up close and personal encounters with the relics that were left behind leaves her shaken and on the run. Even from the people she loves. The relics were part of a weapon that led to the destruction of the Ancients. Now Taryn and Alric, must get a goddess, hundreds of faeries, and the rest of their friends to work together to destroy the weapon before anyone can use it again. But when her world comes crashing down around her, will Taryn have the strength to do what needs to be done?
· Publish date: April 2019
· Publisher: Marie Andreas

Author Interview Questions:

Kasper: Welcome to the Readers Lounge, Marie. I'm so looking forward to getting to know you..and your drunken faeries.
Marie: Thanks Kasper. I'm glad to be here.

I notice your fairies seem rather merry. Can I ask why they're drunk?
That's a great question. The honest answer? They really like the taste of ale!!
LOL, too funny. OK, now for some serious questions...

What makes your writing unique compared to others in the genre?
I like to have humor in my writing. I’m not a heavy or dark writer and my angst level is extremely low ;). I like to read about characters that I’d like to be friends with on some level, and that’s who I write (not the bag guys and gals though ;)).
It takes talent to write the light and humorous themes too. Good for you.

How do you develop your characters?
My characters develop as the plots do—organically. I have an idea of who the two leads are, sometimes more general than others. I just run with it. They show me who they are by reactions they give. (Yes, I know I’m creating them, but it works-LOL).

Do you have another job outside of writing?
Yes, a very soul sucking job dealing with financial aid. It does keep me focused on my writing though—and my boss and co-workers have been very supportive of my books.
So lovely to hear they support you. Sounds like you all need some lightheartedness.

What advice would you give to someone wanting to write a book?
Do it. Learn everything you can. Take writing workshops, go to conferences, join writing groups, READ everything to see how it’s done. And don’t let anyone stop you.
I love this!

What music do you listen to when writing? Movie trailer music—but it’s all background music, not trailers that you’d go, “OH! That’s from Jaws!” It picks up my writing pace and is amazing for fight scenes.

What are you working on now?
Finishing the second steampunk, The Mayhem of Mermaids, finishing the first book in a new fae driven urban fantasy, The Girl with the Iron Wing, editing and expanding a novella unrelated to any other series. WAY too many books in my head, but I have found recently that multiple projects keeps the words flowing.

What’s your writing routine? Mon- Fri: Wake up at 4:30 am, start writing by 5am, write for an hour and a half, get ready for day-job. Home from day job about 5pm, start writing by 6:30-7pm. Weekends it’s less structured.

Wow. You have great discipline. I'm impressed.

Describe your road to publishing your book:
After years of looking for an agent, and finally getting tired of people loving my books, but them not fitting what NY was looking for I went self-published. I gave myself a year to research, hunt down editors, cover artists, etc. The Glass Gargoyle came out in March 2015. I have ten novels and a novella in print right now.

Who are your four favourite authors?
It all depends on what I’m in the mood for, but some ones I always love: Mercedes Lackey, David Eddings, Anne McCaffery, Elizabeth Peters.

Quick quiz:

Favourite thing to cook: Pasta salad—mostly because I love to eat the type I make. Or cookies—same reason ;).
Silliest saying: Not my circus, not my monkeys
Best holiday spot: US: Santa Cruz; outside of US: Conwy, Wales
Most played song: Could have been me by The Struts
With writing, are you a plotter or (seat-of-your) pantser? PANTSER ;)
Do you prefer to read SciFi or fantasy: Love both, but tend to lean a bit more toward fantasy
Best superpower: Freezing time
Number one thing to do on your bucket list: Buy a cottage in a village in the UK

And lucky last....You have multiple series out now, and more on the way. How do you keep so many people in your head?
It’s weird, but all of my characters are very real to me, so of course I wouldn’t confuse Vas with Taryn, or either with Nettie. The pacing for my series are all different as well, so that helps keep them separate. And, I’ve found having multiple books/series actually seems to help me be more productive! I get easily distracted, so by having other book options to work on, I’m less likely to have a completely useless writing session. One book isn’t working, I can hop to another.

Thanks Marie, it really has been a great insight into what makes you tick. I hope the readers will check out the links below. Thanks again for joining us on the Readers Lounge.

Marie's Links

Website: www.marieandreas.com/
Blog: http://faeriesdragonsspaceships.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marieandreaswriter
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MarieAndreas1
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Marie-Andreas/e/B00SX81KIM

To find out more about the books, and future series, please visit her website at www.marieandreas.com--especially if you happen to have a small cottage to give her.

The Lost Ancients series:

This is a group for the readers, by the readers, and all about the readers! We are excited you’re joining us and look forward to getting to know you. The Lounge welcomes all readers and wants each and every one to find a comfortable reading nook here.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/FantasySciFiReadersLounge/

Book Launch coming next weekend. Please come and party with me in the Readers Lounge #FSFRL #fantasy #swordandsorcery

8/23/2019

Hi all, thanks so much to those who beta read my Choose Your Hunters of Reloria Adventure over the past couple of months.

I'm working busily through the edits from Kerry and will have it out for you next weekend. Just ebook at this stage. I haven't explored colour printing yet as it's a picture book with art from many of the art competitions as well as some from local art teacher Nita Thomas.

There will be a special New Release book party in the Fantasy Sci-Fi Readers Lounge next weekend. Please come and party with us. The times are
Saturday, Aug 31st 3 pm - 5 pm US EST and Sunday, 1st of September 5am - 7am Brisbane time. I know it's early, but I will provide the coffee.

Thanks for your support, cheers, Kasper :)

Solstice scavenger hunt for the Fantasy SciFi Readers Lounge #FSFRL #fantasy $75 #giveaway #freebooks

6/14/2019

What is a Solstice?

A solstice occurs when the Sun appears to reach its most northerly or southerly excursion relative to the celestial equator on the celestial sphere. Two solstices occur annually, around June 21 and December 21. Seasons of the year are determined by reference to both the solstices and the equinoxes.
The term solstice can also be used in a broader sense, as the day when this occurs. The day of a solstice in either hemisphere has either the most sunlight of the year (summer solstice) or the least sunlight of the year (winter solstice) for any place other than the Equator. Alternative terms, with no ambiguity as to which hemisphere is the context, are "June solstice" and "December solstice", referring to the months in which they take place every year.
The word solstice is derived from the Latin sol ("sun") and sistere ("to stand still"), because at the solstices, the Sun's declination appears to "stand still"; that is, the seasonal movement of the Sun's daily path (as seen from Earth) stops at a northern or southern limit before reversing direction.

We are celebrating the June 21st Solstice with a fun blog tour Scavenger Hunt.

Solstice Scavenger Hunt

FSF Readers Lounge Presents its first ever Solstice Scavenger Hunt. Running from June 16th to June 29th - 19 authors joined forces to offer readers a chance at $75 cash via PayPal and 19 eBooks as a Grand Prize! 38 secondary prizes (an eBook from one of our participating authors) will be given to randomly chosen participants with the correct answer.

To play for a chance to win, you must go to each of the authors sites listed below, collect the "hidden" word(s), unscramble them, and then enter to win!

Enter the Rafflecopter Here
Entering does not enter you into anything! You have the option to choose who to subscribe to and who to follow - the only requirements are
1- you must follow the Facebook page for the Readers Lounge in order to get the winners announcement and -
2- use the link to enter the giveaway, but I hope you choose to follow the wonderful authors participating in this hunt!

$75 Cash via PayPal

eBooks up for prizes:

A Bit of Magic
Azimuth
Bonded
Curse Breaker: Enchanted
Dragon Blood
Elven Jewel
Forever People
Ian's Realm Saga
Schrodinger's Cat
Shadow's Hand
Sleepless Flame
Tattoos
The Fox and The Hunter
The Glass Gargoyle
The Hand of Atua
The Shikari
This Cursed Flame
Witch's Moonstone Locket
Wolves' Gambit

Make sure to visit all the sites to gather all your words! Happy Hunting!

Click on each author's name to go to their blog and find the key word.

Rennie St. James
Marie Andreas
Selina J. Eckert
Linn Tesli
Marsha A Moore
Kasper Beaumont
PJ MacLayne
D.L. Gardner
Katie Cherry
Dora Blume
Odin Oxthorn
Charity Bradford
Eileen Schuh
Noelle Nichols
Alison Lyke
Mae Baum
Melinda Kucsera
Stacy Overby
Cheryllynn Dyess

List of prizes

* Azimuth by Rennie St. James https://writerrsj.com/blog/
* The Glass Gargoyle by Marie Andreas http://faeriesdragonsspaceships.blogspot.com/
* This Cursed Flame by Selina J. Eckert https://sjeckert.wordpress.com/…/solstice-scavenger-hunt-20…
* The Fox and The Hunter by Linn Tesli https://linntesli.com/blog/
* Witch's Moonstone Locket by Marsha A Moore https://marshaamoore.blogspot.com/…/solstice-scavenger-hunt…
* Elven Jewel by Kasper Beaumont http://huntersofreloria.weebly.com/kaspers-ramblings
* Wolves' Gambit by PJ MacLayne http://www.pjmaclayne.com/mountain-musings/
* Ian's Realm Saga by D.L. Gardner https://diendrial.wordpress.com
* Dragon Blood by Katie Cherry https://www.facebook.com/KatieCherryFantasy/
* The Shikari by Dora Blume (DM Staley) www.dorablume.com
* Sleepless Flame by Odin Oxthorn (Ox Woden) https://www.odinsmusings.com/
* The Hand of Atua by Charity Bradford charitywrites.blogspot.com
* Schrodinger's Cat by Eileen Schuh http://eileenschuh.blogspot.com/
* Shadow's Hand by Noelle Nichols www.noellenichols.com
* Forever People by Alison Lyke http://www.alisonlyke.com/blog
* A Bit of Magic by Mae Baum https://maebaum.com
* Curse Breaker: Enchanted by Melinda Kucsera https://melindakucsera.com/blog/
* Bonded by Cheryllynn Dyess www.cheryllynndyess.com
* Tattoos by Stacy Overby www.thisisnothitchhikersguide.com

Elven Jewel prize from Kasper
This fantasy adventure begins when the magical continent of Reloria is threatened by cruel, scaly invaders called Vergai from the wastelands of Vergash. These invaders are barbaric and are intent on destroying the protective elven forcefield and conquering peaceful Reloria. The Vergais’ plan is to steal the Elven Jewel which is the key to the Relorian defence system.

Halfling friends Randir and Fendi and their bond-fairies are the first to discover the invaders and they embark on a quest to save the Elven Jewel. They leave their peaceful farm village with their fairies and race against time to stop the invaders. They join forces with dwarves, elves, men and a mysterious dragon, and call themselves the Hunters of Reloria.

The quest is perilous, with numerous encounters with the ruthless Vergai, who are determined to fulfill their mission. The Elven Jewel is stolen and the quest becomes a race to the portal to retrieve the jewel before it can be taken to Vergash. A battle for Reloria ensues where the consequences for the Relorians is death, unless Vergai are stopped.

The mystery key word from Kasper is:

Remember to visit all 19 blogs to find the other key words, create the popular fantasy quote and
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Book review: Asylum by Ian Lahey. Children's Book that gave me a pleasant surprise #childrens #fantasy #FSFRL @ian_lahey

5/5/2019

Asylum
a children's fantasy novel by Ian Lahey
Illustrated by Hauke Vagt
Published 2018

Blurb:
An asylum for unwanted children, a strange doctor and a mystery at the core of it all.

Description of Asylum:
A boy named Didley is given up to an Asylum because he is a mutant. His face is wrapped in bandages and we can only assume that some horrible disfigurements lies underneath. He doesn't fit into normal society. Shockingly, it is his parents who don't want him and have elected to choose another child that fits their expectations.

Review of Asylum by me and my 15 year old son, Ryno.
15yo said the cover looked kinda scary and he wouldn't pick it up to read. He's more of an exploding farts kinda reader. He thought it was really sad that the parents wouldn't accept Didley for who he is but would change him for another child that was more normal. How horrible! He thought the children seemed happy in the asylum and maybe they ought to stay there if life on the outside means they would be picked on again. He thought the pictures and the writing inside looked very good and he understood the meaning of all the words, so it was appropriate for his age.

My review: I thought the book was sad when it started and wondered who would like this book. It is so obviously a hard luck story about how tough life can be for children would don't fit the accepted norm.
BUT
Something happens.
Something I didn't expect.
Something that changed my whole view of the book and made me think, Wow, this author is a genius.
I'm going to give it 5 stars (only because it won't let me give ten)
and I challenge you all to read this to your children.
It's worth it, I promise you
* * * * * * * * * *

And the good news is that it's FREE today.

Urban Fantasy author Laurel Night flies in for an author interview for the Fantasy Sci-Fi Readers Lounge #FSFRL #AuthorInterview #UF #UrbanFantasy @Authorfsf

4/22/2019

I have a lovely lady to introduce to you today: Urban Fantasy author, Laurel Night.

Author bio:
Laurel has been an avid reader since she first cracked a Babysitters Club book in elementary school. She’s lived in several different places in the US, studied overseas, and traveled quite a bit (although she’s always up for more!) Laurel has a wonderful husband, a 2-year-old daughter and a furry pooch named Gucci. Laurel’s favorite part of reading a book is getting lost in imagining the world as the author paints it, and she eventually decided to take the leap to create her own worlds for others to enjoy.

She joins us on the Fantasy & SciFi Readers' Lounge today to share her Mortal Flight novel which is just about to hit the bookstores.

Featured book

Book title: Mortal Flight, prequel to the Mortal Heat series
· Genre: Urban Fantasy
· Synopsis: Growing up with three brothers, Geri was never destined to be the type of lady society expected. She had long ago written off the American Dream of a husband and 2.5 kids, pursuing her passion for astronomy and flight. She wanted to fly in the Army Air Corps, but the only roles for women in World War Two were as nurses or local pilots, no combat. While Geri is desperately seeking an opportunity to test her skills as a pilot, she meets a mysterious man who seems to be everything she could ever want in a partner: Handsome, witty, and incredibly supportive of her dreams. Geri’s opportunity finally comes, but she soon discovers James is truly unlike any man she’s ever met. Will the distraction of this seemingly perfect man keep her from achieving her dreams? Or will James be the key to accomplishing more than she ever imagined?
· Publish date: May 2019
· Publisher: Self

Author Interview with Laurel Night

Kasper: Hi Laurel, it's a pleasure to meet you. Come and have a seat on the Readers' Lounge with us.
Laurel: Thanks Kasper, it's great to be here.

Hey, I hear you work for the Air National Guard which really comes across in the themes of your books too. Let's power up the Lounge and take off with our interview.

1) Do you have a pen name and why?
My pen name is Laurel Night. I decided that for my sanity and privacy, I would not publish under my legal name. Because I will publish in a few genres I may come up with a few different ones.
K: Write at night. I like the idea of a secret identity. Do your co-workers know you're a writer?
Yes, they do.

2) What other writing have you done?
I’ve written in one form or another for my entire life, really. I wrote poetry and short stories in school, and I completed my Master’s degree in 2012 so I wrote a lot of papers for that. I work in Public Affairs, so I write a fair amount of Feature and news stories, in addition to video scripts. I have several books in the works, one of which is a YA Urban Fantasy series, and I also have a contemporary action/romance.

3) What made you choose the Urban Fantasy genre?
I love reading this type of story. I love fantasy and magic, smart, clever characters that have something important to discover about themselves, and romantic subplots. Personally I’m not a huge fan of too many details in romances - I lean very slow-burn in what I enjoy - so Urban Fantasy was definitely the way to go. I think the YA paranormal romance is a good option, but I like to write about characters that are a little more mature than the average teenager.

4) Have you used any real events or places as inspiration for your writing?
My YA series, (as of yet untitled) takes place in northern Minnesota in a place called the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. I worked there for several summers in college, and went to high school in the tiny nearby town of Grand Marais. It’s a magical, preserved wilderness, and seemed like a great setting for a mysterious wolf-shifter story.
K: That sounds like an amazing place to let your creativity run wild.

5) Do you have another job outside of writing?
I’m a member of the Air National Guard. I’ve been in for 11 years now, and have worked full time in Public Affairs since 2017. I would love to write full time eventually.

How did you go about developing your cover artwork?
I knew, when I started down this path, that the cover art was important. I have some photoshop skills, so I originally thought I would try to do my own and watched a lot of YouTube videos on the subject. I understand the principles of design and the importance of genre-matching. However I came to realize that I don’t have the time necessary

to learn the skills I’d need, the techniques, to make a good quality cover, and I would not be happy with a half-assed one. I decided that if I was going to invest this time into this project, I would put my money where my mouth is and hire a professional. I followed a bunch of cover artists and found one whose style I really liked. I reached out to her and requested she make my cover. The story for this cover is set in 1945- it’s a prequel to my Urban Fantasy series, so I needed the cover to be done by an urban fantasy artist but have elements that told the reader when it takes place. I think she did a fantastic job.
K: I think so too. Great choice.

6) What advice would you give to someone wanting to write a book?
Just do it. I wish I had just gone for it several years ago when I wrote the first chapter of a book I called ‘The City’, a dystopian story. I dreamt the entire plot in one night, and the story followed me around for days until I just went ahead and wrote it down one day. After getting that first chapter out, I wasn’t motivated to continue it, and I let it sit for years. The story ideas and the urge to write kept revisiting me, and now I have been writing in my spare time for a year and a half. I wonder sometimes where I’d be if I had done this when I wanted to years ago.
K: Oh well, there's no time like the present. Great to have you writing now.

7) What music do you listen to when writing?
I listen to house/edm/techno or ‘study’ playlists, things that are kind of upbeat and may have words or not but nothing too harsh or catchy.

8) What are you working on now?
Right now I’m finishing up Mortal Flight, and then I’ll be working on book two of the Mortal Heat series - my plan is to release the entire 3-book series in September.
Mortal Flight is a prequel novella that I will be offering for free to folks who sign up for my newsletter.

9) What’s your dream job and do you think you’ll do it one day?

I’ve been working on this now for a year and a half, and my dream job would be to just write full time. I have way too many story ideas now to write them all in the next five years at the rate I’m going right now. I would love to have the time to put them all to paper!

K: I sure hope that dream comes true for you.

10) Do you prefer ebook or hardcopy?
I have some favorite hardcopy books, but honestly I just can’t beat the convenience of e-books. I have most of my hardcopy library on e-book now, because I can read them in bed without having a light on. :)

Quick quiz:
Favourite thing to cook: I love baking, so I’d say cookies
Silliest saying: Well, there you go.
Best holiday spot: Breckenridge, CO - I love Snowboarding!
Most played song: Right now, R.I.P by Sofia Reyes
With writing, are you a plotter or (seat-of-your) pantser? I’m a hybrid. I plot out the main points but make adjustments and let the creativity flow as I go along
Do you prefer to read SciFi or fantasy: Fantasy
Best superpower: Flight
Number one thing to do on your bucket list: Learn to Surf!

Kasper: Thanks Laurel. It has been fun getting to know you today. We wish you all the best with your writing, snowboarding and surfing too.

Laurel: Thanks everyone. I appreciate you stopping by to learn more about me. Please check out Mortal Flight in May.

Laurel's Links

Website: http://www.laurelnight.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaurelNightAuthor/

Laurel Night is a member of the Fantasy & SciFi Readers Lounge

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'Elven Jewel'

'Hunters' Quest'

'Dragon's Revenge'

'Fandri's Adventures'

'Captive of the Darkness'

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