Thanks for stopping by for the Tales of Ferres Blog Tour! I got a special treat for you filled with fantasy stories that will keep you wanting more. Tales of Ferrês is Speculative Fiction author K.M. Jenkins’ first official book in print. The stories are filled with wonder, magic, and fantastical creatures. You won’t miss a thing and will die for more. Don't forget to check out the other blogs too! They make this tour happen and each one has something special to showcase. Sit back, read and enjoy. Also on a special note Tales of Ferrês is discounted to $1.99 until Friday, May 29th, so grab it for the low price while you can. ​

​Author Interview with K.M. Jenkins: 
Welcome K.M., I'm pleased to have you here today.

What was the defining event that made you start writing?
I loved reading books since I was a kid. The books mostly focused around the fantasy genre. But, I would also eat through any genre pretty much. I didn’t really start writing hard core until I was a freshman in college. I was inspired in high school to journey down that road but never took the leap. One day I sat down with my dad and talked about a book idea I had. He was so in love with it he told me to write it and never stop. I decided after that to give it a try. But it was a lot of working in the making so I didn’t start publishing until September of 2018.
 
What made you choose this genre?
I love fantasy. I love reading about knights, dragons, elves, and magic users. Shifters are another big favorite of mine I love to read about. This love is what fuels the books I create and how I create worlds.
 
What’s the basic plot of your book?
The basic plot for Tales of Ferrês is centered around the Forest of Ferrês. Each individual story has different characters but they all have a common denominator, the forest itself. The Forest of Ferrês is a magical land that plays by its own rules. This forest shows its abilities throughout these stories. My characters just get sucked up within the forest without a choice in the matter. 
 Sounds exciting!

What advice would you give to someone wanting to write a book?
I would say write as it comes. It doesn’t hurt to plot out the chapters ahead to get an idea where you want to go but sometimes you just need to let your characters lead the way. Another big thing to think about before you write a book is to find your target audience and build interest before you even begin to write.
 
What are you working on now?
Right now I am working on the next series of short stories that will be a part of the Legendary Tales series. This series of short stories will be stand alone stories that are inside the kingdom of Tarza.
Another big project I am working on is my first novel: Gargoyle Sighted. I release a chapter to my newsletter subscribers each month and so far they are enjoying this book immensely.
 
What do you do when you have writers’ block?
I tend to step back and relax. If I get writer’s block it usually means I’m overly stressed so I just need to find things to do beside write. If that doesn’t work then I will read books until my head explodes.
 
How did you go about developing your cover artwork?
I actually created my own cover. I saw this pre-made cover I loved and thought it would work with my book. The only thing was it wasn’t the best of quality. Loved the concept just didn’t have the final wow factor for me to purchase. So, I started looking around at stock images and thought I would stick with the color scheme. Then work on images to make the cover. I decided to go with tribal symbols for the cover because I thought it would bring character to it. In the end I was happy with how it turned out and got great feedback from my readers.
 Wow, so clever.

What are your writing plans for this year?
This year I am working on my Tales of Tarza short story series and my novel in process Gargoyle Sighted. I want to get Gargoyle Sighted written and ready to go out to subscribers. Then start releasing the stories in my Tales of Tarza series around October or November. It depends on how much writing I get done this summer.
 
What’s your dream job and do you think you’ll do it one day?
My dream job is being an author. I know I am doing it right now but I would love to work towards doing it full time. Right now it brings in some income just not enough to live off of.
 Good luck.  With your motivation, hopefully it will come true soon.

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not writing?
I spend time with my kids, watch tv, read books, and take walks around the neighborhood.
 
Quick quiz:
Favourite food: Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Silliest saying: Get up and jiggle with it.
Best holiday spot:
Favourite song at the moment: Let’s Go
With writing, are you a plotter or (seat-of-your) pantser? Both
Star Wars or Lord of the Rings: Lord of the Rings
Best superpower: Super Strength
Number one thing to do on your bucket list: Go to Hawaii’s volcano national park

Thanks K.M. for taking the time to chat with us.  I hope all the readers have enjoyed the interview and will continue on the blog tour.

Stalk K.M. Jenkins @ the Following:
Website/Blog:
https://authorkmjenkins.com/
FB Author Page:
https://www.facebook.com/authorkmjenkins/
Become a Dragon Ryder (Street Team):
https://www.facebook.com/groups/401132917085336/
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/@authorkmjenkins/
Goodreads:
https://www.goodreads.com/kmjenkins_specfictionauthor
BookSprout:
https://booksprout.co/author/3717/k-m-jenkins
Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/K.M.-Jenkins/e/B07GDSWDK7
Bookbub:
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/k-m-jenkins


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Follow the tour on the following blogs...

Blog Tour Hostess: The Bursting Bookshelf Blog
​

Cassandra's featured book today is:
​
· Book title: Fae Princess
· Genre: Urban Fantasy
​
· Synopsis:
A war fueled by hatred. A girl pushed in the middle. Humans and Fae are at war—a war Brinna Rogers wants nothing to do with. She is content living with her parents, going to school, and pretending the streets aren’t filled with fighting. Until she has no choice but to face it. On her way home one damp night, danger strikes, thrusting Brinna down a rabbit hole of change. A binding spell snaps, and she finds out she has been lied to her whole life. She isn’t a human like she thought. Instead, she is Fae, and not just any. Her name is Brinna Blackshadow and she is a Fae Princess. Within moments, she is shoved over the edge of reality, plummeting straight down until she crashes head first into the war. In order to break free, she must strike a deal with the leader of the human army—one that makes guilt rise to the forefront. Because when you strike a deal with the devil, you might pay with more than your soul. Fae Princess is the first installment of The Blackshadow Chronicles. It will appeal to fans of Sarah J Maas’s ACOTAR series and Julie Kagawa’s The Iron Fey Series.

· Publish date: November 23,2018
· Publisher: self
·https://www.amazon.com/Fae-Princess-Blackshadow-Chronicles-Book-ebook/dp/B07JYM9F2W


Author interview with Cassandra Fear:

Kasper: Hi Cassandra, welcome to the Readers Lounge.  We're excited to learn more about you and your writing.
Cassandra: Thank you.  Looking forward to it. 

*  What other writing have you done?
The sequel to Fae Princess, Fae Queen, and The Secrets of Orendor Series Books 1 and 2 are all out, along with some of my first books available on Amazon through Limitless Publishing. I have a lot more planned, though, it’s just finding the time to get them done.

*  Do you have another job outside of writing?
I work as a freelance editor and book cover designer, as well.
Oh wow.  That is such a cool job for an author.

*  What advice would you give to someone wanting to write a book?
Just write. Don’t go over it and over it and nitpick everything until it’s written and your either write “The End” or “To be continued.” Also, never let anyone tell you that you aren’t good enough. You are. You can be. Put the work in. Find out what works for you and what doesn’t. Read a lot and learn from those authors. And write another book, and another, and another. Eventually, you will be a pro.
Great advice.

Best superpower: X-Ray vision because, well, wouldn’t it be hilarious to see right through people?
Number one thing to do on your bucket list: See the English Countryside.

Kasper; Thanks Cassandra.  I do hope all those dreams come through for you.  Especially the X ray vision LOL.  It's been a lot of fun picking your brain today.  Thanks for sharing with us.

Cassandra: My pleasure.


​
Readers, before you go, please check out Cassandra's Links and her books:
​
Website: www.cassandafear.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CassandraFearAuthor/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14953008.Cassandra_Fear
Instagram: @cfear_27
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Cassandra-Fear/e/B01DR0T4FQ

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

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:

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 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/

· 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!
​

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/