Review of Fifty shades of Grey

Fifty shades of Grey by El James

Review by Holly Hood

Rated: 4 out of 5 stars

I finished the book.

I know I would have finished a lot sooner if I had the time. The book for me was really good. I won’t say great because I had some minor issues. But I couldn’t give it less than four stars because the overall story was a great one. I love dysfunction in books. And this story had that for sure!

Fifty shades of Grey is not a book that I would have ever thought of reading. I have seen the cover everywhere. It’s not even the content that scared me away. I just never was attracted to the cover or had it jump out at me. The reason I finally said what the heck, was by accident when a woman on Goodreads said she was reading it and how much she loved it. This made me look closer, and seeing all the listopia votes about Christian Grey, I had to take a chance. I like great characters.

The story was very raw. So much so you felt like a perverted fly on the walk taking in things you really shouldn’t. Sometimes I was shaking my head and confused why I was into this book. A lot like Anastasia I suppose.

The one thing this book does is create a character that you can’t help but love. Everything about Christian tells you to run away. You couldn’t fall for a person like this, but it’s his soft side that is buried deep that slowly comes to the surface as Ana and him get to know each other. I was dying to know why he was the way he was and what she could do to fix it. By the end of the read I wanted to hug him and make things okay, which he would hate.

The story was great, I loved every chapter. I think the pace was killer. Everything unfolded just the way I wanted it to. The one thing I was wishing for seemed to evolve as the story went along. And this kept me happy.

As for any complaints, my only ones was the sometimes cheesy wording when it came to the sexual acts. Maybe it’s just me, but normal people don’t talk in that way. I like the wording to be believable and there were time I didn’t feel what she said to him or vice versa.

I also think I could have done without a lot of Anastasia phrasings. They seemed to occur time and time again. I think those could have been switched up a little.

I thought the inner goddess was funny for the first fifty percent of the book. But after awhile she just got old. Soon I found myself wishing Ana would borrow some of Christian’s rope to bound and gag her so she would shut up. I get it was probably the authors way of letting us see inside the mind of Ana and her thoughts on this strange lifestyle she was partaking in, but it got old.

The ending was a punch in the face. It shattered my heart. It was so real and emotional, I loved it! Now I am dying to start the next.

The author has really created a story that is more than just sex. Some might be shocked, but if you really read this book you will see it’s more than that. This book has so much going for it. You won’t be disappointed. If you are looking for a character that you love to hate, I would say give this book a shot. Although I didn’t ever hate Christian I felt for him. But he did have a very very dark side.

Anyone sensitive to sex in books steer clear, because this more than just average sex. This is way beyond. But if you want a story that keeps you reading and sweeps you off your feet in a really bad way, then this is the book for you!

Great job!!

Buy the book

Interview with Brandi Salazar

*taps mic*

Today I had the honor of interviewing a great author and also a close friend. Brandi Salazar is the author of several new books. If I had to describe her writing style I would say: creative, sometimes dark, humorous and original.

Brandi knows how to create a well developed world in her stories. She does an amazing job at creating frightening scenes as well as the lighter side of things. Brandi has a real knack for romance in her stories and the reader is always in store for a great relationship in Brandi's books. So please enjoy the interview. Take a moment to get to know this promising new indie author and check out her books. Thank you!

1.I know you very well, but the readers don't, so tell me a bit about yourself.

I am a mother of three lovely children and have been married for 11 years to a pretty great guy. Currently, I am earning a degree in business, but what I really want to do when all is said and done is book editing. I’m a pretty average girl. I enjoy photography, writing and I love reading to an almost unhealthy degree. Sweet tea is my vice of choice. I wear heels with my jeans and I wish on shooting stars often. My sense of humor is dark and sarcastic and I love to scare people at every opportunity—my husband will probably die of a heart attack one day.

2.When did you first consider yourself a writer?

Very recently, actually. I really started taking it seriously when a friend of mine started taking hers seriously, and I just rolled with it. When I think back on it, I have been writing since I was little, say five or six. I got really into it in junior high when my long time best friend and I would exchange short stories and whacky poems as we waited for the school doors to open each morning or throughout the day in class when we should have been listening to the teacher’s lecture. Summer school was totally worth the laughs we had.

3.I wonder who that friend was, anyways,what inspired you to write your first book?

A friend of mine started writing and as I read hers I thought, there’s no reason I can’t do this. I gave it a shot. It was rocky at first, but once I got into it, I became completely absorbed and ideas started rolling in one after the other. Basically, I got the bug.

4.The bug, its a hard thing to shake. What books have influenced your life most?

For me, it’s not so much the books, but the authors who wrote them. Richelle Mead, J.R. Ward, and especially L.A. Banks. They each are very powerful, successful businesswomen who are highly educated and they saw their dream, recognized it, and sought to make it a reality. I love to challenge myself, and I admire and respect those who do the same.

5. What a great answer.If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?

Well, that’s a tough one. Although the above mentioned women jump to the front of my mind, I think the one writer that I could truly consider a mentor is Holly Hood. Of course you all know she’s an indie author—a quite successful one at that—and part of this blog. But she is also the person who I look to for guidance in this crazy world of writing. She figures out all the ins and outs of the business and through her efforts I have learned a great deal. She is also my biggest champion. We all have our moments, and she is my go-to gal when I need inspiration or a quick pick me up.

6.I'm blushing over here. I will pay you later for the compliment. What book are you reading now?

Nothing at the moment, but I plan to start in T-minus one hour…give or take 60 seconds. I just finished the second book in the Fifty Shades of Grey trilogy, so Fifty Shades of Freed is next on the chopping block.

7. I myself am reading those, Mrs. Salazar *inside joke* What do you like to do when you’re not writing?

Reading is my go-to for entertainment. Nothing compares to getting lost in a world of fantasy. If for whatever reason I can’t pick up a book, I am generally spending time with my family. Currently, my husband and I are finishing up Gears of War and when we’re not doing that, we are taking in scary movies with our girls (our son HATES scary movies).

8.I can confirm this to be true. Some days she is nowhere to be found all day. The girl might be the fastest reader I know.Where do you get your ideas for your books?

Like the great Stephan King, I get my ideas from my dreams. Those come most easily for me to write because they have a tendency to burn themselves into my psyche.

9.That has yet to happen for me, but I think that is so cool. What new author has grasped your interest?

I usually come by my authors late in the game. Like a used car, new-to-me authors would include Claudia Grey, Jennifer Ashley, and Meagan Hatfield. But the person I am most impressed by is a fellow indie author I met on this writing website called Webook: Kimberly Reeves. She’s one of the most talented writers I have come across, and I have been rooting for her success since I picked up her first book and fell head over heels into it.

10.If you couldn’t be an author, what would your ideal career be?

As I mentioned before, I am going to school to become an editor. Since starting this whole writing thing I have noticed that I get the most enjoyment from editing. I like the organization and the detail work of it. So, yeah, that’s my ideal career.

11.What was your favorite chapter to write and why?

Put me on the spot why don’t ya! Scouring my brain, I would have to say my favorite chapter would be when Trent takes Jessica to his house for the first time in Addicted to Magic. They share some intimate moments that I find both raw and beautiful. It’s a moment when I really got to see Jessica’s vulnerability and Trent’s softer side.

12.I enjoyed that chapter too. Why do you feel you had to tell this story?

I have always been fascinated with witchy storylines, but the idea that witchcraft could be dangerous in more than a spell casting kind of way intrigued me. Honestly, it just kind of fell together. I didn’t go into it saying, yes, this is exactly what I want from this one, but more like it evolved from the opening page. I didn’t know what was going to happen until it happened.

13.Can you tell us about your upcoming book?

I have several, but the closest one is the second in my Brotherhood series, A Warrior’s Betrayal. It will pick up after the last where Erias is trapped in the underworld, a prisoner to Persephone while topside Cheyenne and Behr get a little cozier as they deal with her grief over losing him.

14. And I look forward to reading it.How do you market your book(s)?

I don’t do too much at the moment. I prefer to concentrate on writing them and making them available, and pretty much let the chips fall where they may. What I do involves a margin of plug-ins on Facebook, the blog, of course, and I seek out a few reviewers. That’s it! I know it sounds lazy, and it probably is, but I’m not seeking fame or fortune. I just want to write it, and if people like it and it sells, great! If not, well, it is what it is.

15.Do you have any advice for aspiring authors?

Don’t bother with the hype. You don’t need to watch the market for what is popular currently. Write what you know and love. That is where your inspiration will come from, and it will show in your writing. Develop a pattern and stick to it. Write a little every day, or on a designated day of the week, just so long as you are writing. Look for inspiration everywhere, especially in areas that evoke emotion. I like to watch the Discovery Channel. End of the world kind of stuff, angels and demons, that sort of thing.

16. Great advice.If you could trade places with any other person for a week, famous or not famous, living or dead, real or fictional, with whom would it be?

That’s a tough one because it changes so frequently. If I had to choose, I think it would be Rose from Vampire Academy. Not only is she a kick ass vampire slayer, but she has a group of great and loyal friends, hotties galore who are all falling at her feet to be with her, and a no nonsense attitude that screams “Don’t mess with me!”

17. If aliens landed in front of you and, in exchange for anything you desire, offered you any position on their planet, what would you want?

Well, I would have to request presidency. Seriously, if I found myself on an alien planet; I want to be the one making the rules. You never know what those creatures have up their sleeves (probes anyone?).

18.If Hollywood made a movie about your life, whom would you like to see play the lead role as you?

Considering that people keep telling me that I look like Reese Witherspoon, I guess it would have to be her. I have the teeth part down to a science!

19. You so do.If someone wrote a biography about you, what do you think the title should be?

The Eternal Procrastinator.

New book Buried Secrets

http://www.amazon.com/Buried-Secrets-ebook/dp/B0075VOJ4U/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1328466766&sr=8-1

Goodreads

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4810728.Brandi_Salazar

Twitter

https://twitter.com/#!/brandellavanela

Kindlegraph

http://www.kindlegraph.com/authors/brandellavanela

Ink Playlist (playlist)

I saw these the other day for author's books. A lot of us listen to music while we write. For me it's the only way I can. So I thought I would compile the music that was flowing constantly from the speakers as Ink was created. Enjoy!

I'm hoping to convince the other member, Brandi to share her lists with us.

Do you want more Ink??

To all the fans of Hope and Slade, there will be another book coming soon!

Help me name the new characters. If your name is impressive enough I might use it in the story. I need one girl name and one boy name. And remember I like my names to be interesting. Give it your best shot!

When I think of Ink, I think of this song.

Grab your copy of Ink at Amazon!

Not Your Ordinary Faerie Tale (The Others #12) by Christine Warren

I saw this book and figured, why not? It's the first I have read of this series and by this author, and I am glad i gave it a chance! The author's writing style is pretty good, not the best, but likeable all the same. I say this because there was some awkward phrasing here and there that had me rereading to get a better grasp of the situation. It definitely didn't stand in the way of my liking the story!

The MC, Corrinne, is a reporter for a small newspaper and she has been given an assignment that puts her smack dab in the middle of Other territory. Now, as I said, I have not read the previous books in the series, so I gathered pretty quick that she has watched her best friends marry into the Other world and is less than thrilled about it. In fact, she is pretty thoroughly creeped out by it and has sworn off any possibility of ever getting involved with the opposite species. It's so distressing in fact that she depends heavily on her bottle of aspirin to an almost unhealthy degree--which I found quite humorous.

Luc is from Faerie and is part of the Sidhe race. He is the head of Queen Mab's warrior elite and he has been sent through the magical doorway to Manhattan to retrieve her troublesome nephew who has been calling far too much attention to himself. He seems to both love and hate his job. And he definitely holds some pent up rage against the nephew of his Queen. When he seeks help from Rafe, the head of the Other council, he runs into Corrinne, who is also seeking Rafe's assistance.

Luc has never considered the human race as particularly attractive. Actually, he and his kind consider humans to be children in comparison to their longevity and life experience. So when he sees Corrinne and is instantly overwhelmed by his attraction to her, he is take aback. Likewise, Corrine can't believe she is fantasizing about the hot "fairy" in the room, considering her massive distaste for anything Other.

Their relationship took off like a bullet and the heat never went below a low simmer. The two of them pair up to hunt down this mischief making nephew while trying to unravel another layer to the mystery surrounding him that I won't give away. All this while trying, and failing, to keep their hands off each other! Along the way, Luc discovers the connection between him and Corrinne goes deeper than simple attraction that I found simply lovely.

This is definitely a series that I would like to check out. It's a refreshing departure from the traditional vampire saga, although hints at previous books in the series tell me they are no exception. I'm hoping to see more characters from the Other community, like Leprechauns and Brownies!

LOVE this series!!

I'm going to make this short and simple.

Once upon a time in a realm far far away....
The king and queen of Elden were vanquished by the Blood Sorcerer, but before they met their demise, they scattered their four children far and wide only to return again when the time was right, kill the sorcerer, and reclaim their royal heritage in a war to end all war.

Reda is a woman with a lot of baggage that causes her to question everything, including her own heart. But one thi...moreI'm going to make this short and simple.

Once upon a time in a realm far far away....
The king and queen of Elden were vanquished by the Blood Sorcerer, but before they met their demise, they scattered their four children far and wide only to return again when the time was right, kill the sorcerer, and reclaim their royal heritage in a war to end all war.

Reda is a woman with a lot of baggage that causes her to question everything, including her own heart. But one thing she believes in (at least she's pretty sure she does) is the story her mother raised her on. The story of Little Red Riding Hood...the Elden version. Always holding out for her prince charming, Reda finds just what she is looking for when a magical book tears her away from the world she knows and plops her in a very unfamiliar place where the terrible--and breathtaking-- sights from her mother's story come to startling life.

Dayn is cursed to the wolfyn realm where he awaits his guide that is destined to help him end the curse and regain his kingdom. And when Reda arrives he gets far more than he bargained for.

This is the first book I have read by this author, and I loved her writing. I initially started this series because I love Gena Showalter, and I have been following it ever since. I can't say I am disappointed. I loved Dayn. He was charming and sweet, caring and tender, and fierce and protective. Everything a woman wants, right? I liked that he had his vulnerabilities as much as Reda and, in the end, needed her as much as she needed him, if not more so. Theirs was a heartwarming love that left me breathless. I was so invested in the characters that it drew out my emotions and when the end came and I found that I had to get the next in the series to find out the TRUE ending, I wanted to scream. So, obviously I lied when I said this would be short, but darn it, it was good! I'm glad it's part of my straining collection of books.*pets cover lovingly* 

Rating: 5 hearts!


Lord of the Wolfyn @ Amazon.com

Happy Veteran's Day : Ebook Giveaway!

In honor of all the military, we at Fictitious Chronicles want to offer our thanks to all the men and women who have served our country, giving their lives in exchange for ours. There will never be enough thanks.
Furthermore, we have decided that, while the cost of freedom is great, the cost of a good book doesn’t have to be. To celebrate this Veteran’s Day we are giving away ebook FREE copies of our books. Simply choose the one that suits your fancy, run over to Smashwords.com and enter the coupon code provided. And as always, we loved to hear from our readers. Although we would like to strap each and every reader to a chair in front of the computer and force a review out of you, we know we can’t—most of you live too far away! So feel free to leave a review if you are moved to do so, and enjoy!




Wingless Smashword Coupon Code: RG35U


Faerie Tales: The Misfortune of A Teenage Socialite Smashword Code: TV84N


Ink Smashword Coupon Code:TY87E



Darkness and Lies: A Brotherhood Novel Smashword Code :TP94H

Happy Halloween!

To all the ereader owners. In honor of halloween, the holiday I enjoy so very much, I am offering a free ebook copy of Ink!! Go to Smashwords, use the code AR37G and grab your copy of Ink, and just think you didn't even have to say trick or treat! lol. And if you are feeling in a kind and generous mood, remember I always like to hear your thoughts about the book. Don't be afraid to leave a review or even comment on my blog and let me know what you think about the book! Happy Holidays!!!

Chapter for new book: INK

Ink
August 11th 1995

The crowd parted ways at the concert in Langdon Park. It was a hot summer, the humidity very apparent on the skin of the large crowd. If you looked just close enough at the midnight sky you could see a dark storm brewing. And he knew it wouldn’t be long before all of the bands were hurrying to pack up their equipment and hit the road.
He was sure there would be some trying to score some drugs, or maybe a lady for the night, and even more of them hoping to make their night just a little more exciting.
Jumping down from the stage, he gained his footing. Paying close attention to winding up the wire, he worked quickly. His tattoos apparent at each swift swing of his arm, he wasn’t an innocent guy, he was just as much a part of them even if he never liked to admit it. One swift shove sent the plastic container into the side compartment of the tour bus, he was done for the night and only looking forward to getting a couple hours of sleep before they were on to the next city. But as soon as the screams of hundreds of fans broke through his mindless thoughts he knew that would never happen, giving an intense sigh, one that proved just how tired he was getting at this gig. He shoved the task at hand aside, jumping out of the way just in time as the whole stage crashed beside him, metal and stray grass spilling out before him, smoke loomed off in the distance in quiet little crowds.
They were there, there to destroy everything in their path. He knew it was ill will to think anything that they did would ever turn into anything more than just a disaster. And as he watched the sick twisted beast suck the life of their victims, he held it together on the outside, it was part of life after all. No he took that back, it was part of his life, his sick upbringing. Looking down at his arms pained him, his throat constricted with the horrifying realization, he was the same. Dropping his cigarette on the gravel he took in the twisted metal scraping and whining as it hit the ground, taking off into a sprint he crept across the grass like a well trained athlete. His shirt becoming a little bothersome so he shrugged it off carrying on, that’s when he spied her, a young girl. She couldn’t have been more then seventeen at the most, probably experiencing her first live concert. But all he felt on the inside was hot rage, a hunger that crawled out from someplace so dark he didn’t even recognize it. Her eyes grew large as he approached and her deafening scream filled the air, minutes later all was silent and an eerie stillness settled back on the park.
He shot up in bed, all was silent. The music in the park barely audible from the bus, the rain started falling steadily against the window, it had been a dream. An eerie dream that had been replaying in his mind for months, he rubbed the back of his neck trying to get himself motivated enough to start packing up the band. Just because he wasn’t at his best didn’t mean he could get out of his job as stagehand.

Back to Life

Alas, Back to Life was published, its done! I am beyond thrilled and relieved and so far I have heard great things! Now that the series is where I want it to be, I am taking a break and enjoying some reading. I am almost finished with Hush, hush by Becca Fitzpatrick. It is an amazing book and I am looking forward to sharing my thoughts on the book. Also I am finishing editing Gypsies and going to redo the cover.

I wanted to talk about a contest I wanted to hold for Nook and Kindle readers, eventually when I am able I will do this for DTB books as well in the series. I want to hold a contest where the prize is all six books in the series. I need to research a little about what to do, I think that would be a really cool prize, I would love to win a whole series from an author, to me that would be awesome.

I will update on here once I figure it out...have a great weekend!!

Memorial Day Giveaway

It's memorial, and it means a lot to me. I used to be a military wife, so I can relate to all of the current ones. I respect and am truly honored by all the military, they sacrifice so much.

Today I am giving away copies of Wingless, my paranormal romance. I thank all the soliders!!

Everyone enjoy your memorial day!

If your interested in the book use the code NM24B on Smashword for you copy, and be sure to let all your book worm friends know as well, share the code on such a great day!!!

Now I am off to swim and cook out!!

Blog Tour De Troops

Since I am partnering with indie author Lili Tufel, I am pleased to share the review of such a wonderful book by a talented author! Support the troops!!

Review for Sand by Lili tufel
By Holly Hood

I had the pleasure of reading this book, and I enjoyed it. At first I worried that all the military wording was going to confuse me, but it was worded quite nicely. And nothing about it was confusing, the story definitely took me along for the ride, and I was completely engrossed by the relationships going on, each character had a special quality that made the story that more captivating. I think the author did a great job at conveying a sense of military pride as well as really putting you into the shoes of the characters, Without giving much away, I will say this story had a lot of action, great humor and was well written. If I would have had more time, I am quite confident that this would have been read in one day, it was a great read, and I give the author credit for her smooth transition from one situation to the other, at no time was I lost or confused on what was happening. And being a military wife at one time, I think she did a great job with the story!
I think my favorite part of the story was the moment when you can see the relationships building between Javi and Jasmine and Dallas and Abby, Jasmine is such a sweet woman, who is dealing with her own loss, raising a child and helping out the wounded soldiers. The part where Javi gives her the flowers made me smile, it was cute and I liked how he wasn’t afraid to go after her. This book really had a way to make you feel the romance between the characters, the men had feelings and really cared for the women, it was sweet. And Abby is a daughter missing her father, and there is something so sweet and perfect about her, you totally understand why any man would fall head over heels for her.
Another great thing about this book is the plot, it really takes you on a wild ride, and has so many touching moments that you can only finish this book feeling quite pleased. What a great story from a great author, I am a fan!

Into the groove

Well its sunday and usually I am super busy with preparing for Monday. Well actually I still am, Sunday consist of laundry, cleaning and trying to squeeze in some kind of relaxation..oh and the grocery store.

Well I gladly can report that I am back into the groove of writing, I sat down yesterday and wrote a chapter for Back to life (book 6) and it felt good, my mind was quite mush when I read it back, so I have to reread it again today, I think I was tired so my brain said no I'm not listening. And I hope to pump out a couple more chapters today, and I would like to thank Evermore for providing my background music as I feverishly wrote last night!!

A little trick i use to feel the current situation in my writing is by listening to a fitting song, usually over and over, and it really helps. Some says listening to music is distracting, well its not for me. I can not think when I hear anything going on around me, music seems to block the noise and take me deep into the story.

And currently in this story I am at a big crossraods on what to do, and I have yet to figure out what is right............in due time.

Matchbox Twenty - Rest Stop

Speaking of story tellers, Rob THomas is a great one.

The weekend, although it was great it went to fast!! Oh how I miss the days of having nothing to do, I used to be bored, not anymore I tell ya! But I wouldn't have it any other way.

Book sales are awesome, I am so grateful for that. Its an amazing feeling for sure.
I have been busy editing, reading and more editing, I had a couple chances to read a bit, which I am going to try to finish up this week, so I can post reviews on these books.
I really can't wait to start some new stories, the hubby and I were rolling around ideas yesterday, I have probably 4 great book ideas.
I also read about 20 pages of a story my best friend started, and its so good. I can't wait until she throws all her stories on Amazon Kindle, she is going to do so great.

I really want to get back into book 6, I am at a point in the story where there is going to be so many emotional rollercoasters, and that is my favorite kind to write. But I will wait, because I really want to finish editing these, I feel once they are gone over and polished it will be one less thing on my mind. And then I can focus on writing.

As for life, its still amazing and I am inspired more and more everyday to just be the best I can be. It sounds cheesy, but I want to do nothing but appreciate all the great, and forget about the negative. And of course any life has negative. I was watching Oprah the other day, and I heard something said by Maya ANgelou, she said "If you know better you do better." and its true, and a wise thing to escape someone's lips. People leaves such lasting impacts on my mind, with nothing more then words.

Maroon 5 - Give A Little More

I think I have a crush on Maroon 5 now that I watch The voice, I always was a fan, but Adam really cracks me up. He was the one judge that really didn't waste his time, he knew what he wanted, and he was so cocky.The show is great, so much better then American Idol.

I said I would return with some more of my indie author journey...

The biggest thing I worked on starting out was finding my way promotion wise, I did not want to be that annoying promoter of my work. I wanted to know the people as well as tell them about my work, if someone wants to read my books fine, if not I am not going to cry over it, or be super aggresive.I myself don't read something unless it spikes my interest, I am not a big reader, I have always enjoyed reading, but ever since I can remember I have been so into creating my own writing I haven't done much reading. But when I do, I like a good story, a writer that has humor, who can really paint the picture visually in my mind, where I don't feel like I am reading anymore, but more living in their world.

The best advice I could give,its only been a few months for me. Interact with readers and writers, there is no better way. Socializing and showing that you are a person, it really works wonders. I tried all the promoting avenues, I went into forums, I made the website, blah blah blah. But now I am down to only a few things, and they all consist of being me. When I wake up in the morning, I go to Facebook, I interact with my writing and reading groups, I really care what is going on with these people. And they have a lot of good advice, as well as they are interesting characters, my reading list is full of their books, these are the ones I am reading because they caught my eye, and I have grown to enjoy the person behind the books so much, I want to know what kind of writer they are. I also am a member of Goodreads, though this is taking some time to get into, I do giveaways on my books, because I want to give someone the chance if they want it to read my book without the pressure to buy. Giveaways are great, its like the samples at the grocery store, taste the product before you spend your money on it. And then there are book bloggers, I submitted my books to a bunch, and this also has generated sales for me. Word of mouth is an amazing thing. You have to put yourself out there, again show that your a real person, care about the readers, and be you. Not to mention getting with the bloggers for author interviews, its fun, and its a way to show your face.

To end this I really don't think there is a set way to be good at doing the author thing, you have to make it right for you, not everyone does it the same, and I find something new out everyday. But in the end it all falls back onto the book, you can make something sound amazing, promote it until your blue in the face, but if no one likes it and wants to read it, then it is all for nothing. And don't forget to write!! You can lose track of that quickly, and thats the most important, readers are about the books, the more you have the better. And support your fellow authors, we all are striving for the same things, and there is room for all of us!!

Hmmm

So, I really don't have the drive to do anything that I need to get done. I had a busy day, hardly have much time anymore to wrap my brain around everything. I watch a baby 4 times a week, and I have kids of my own, plus I have been editing all my books, besides the third. I am actually working on the second as we speak. I really am dead set on getting this done, so far with the help of my best friend Brandi, we managed to polish Wingless amazingly (in my opinion) but I learn something new everyday, that is what I enjoy about being an indie, I like learning all of this stuff. So right now books 1 and 4 have been gone over nicely. Book 3 is being worked on by Brandi, and I am on page 60 of the edit of book 2. All that will be left is book 5, and I am actually very excited about this. I want to read this one again, sometimes I forget every detail. Once all the editing is finished I will start back with writing book 6, that one could be finished in weeks if I really buckled down, I am probably 200 pages in it already. So many goals, so little time.
On to another cool part of being an Indie Author, I have really been doing well with sales. I have my books on Kindle, Smashwords and Nook. I also have actual book form on Lulu. But my main focus is ebooks now, I really enjoy this way better.
I was reading a lot of blogs today about other indie authors and their stories of publishng, so I figure I would share mine with whoever wants to read...
I had added my book Wingless on Amazon Kdp back in January I believe. I don't even remember why I did, I really didn't even know what the heck it was even. I never looked at it again, it wasn't until March when I received and email from a girl, that I was intrigued. She asked me if I had my books available through Kindle. And so I emailed back and told her that I would put them on there. So this is when it started, I did so much googling of how to go about this, what to do, not to do, etc. I wanted to know the best approach to getting word out about my books. I found groups on fb, groups all over the place, I read the stories and blogs about other authors and their success at publishing books this way, and I was totally excited. I think I will make a seperate blog of all that I have learned so far, on what worked for me. I say March was my starting month for selling on kindle and Nook. March I sold around 24 books, and this was exciting to me. April I went from 24 to 186, and this month of May I am currently at 117 and its only the 11th of the month. So I can say I feel my hard work has paid off. I fell in love with the Book Junkies group on Fb they have been a godsend, its so nice to have other authors and readers to relate to, that aren't rude. I love it. I love hearing from the readers, its the most exciting part of writing to me, and I am starting to hear more and more. I wish I could sit and write everything I have in my mind down, but I fear this is already chaotic. So I will end this. Any Indie authors feel free to share your stories!

Mother's day giveaway

Hey all, its been a long saturday, that's for sure. And since tomorrow is Mother's day, I am giving all the Mother's out there a free copy of Wingless via Smashwords, so if your a Mother who would enjoy a good read, give my book series a try. Its a paranormal romance, that has a little something for everybody in it. And feel free to post a review on Amazon or Smashwords, I am also on Goodreads. Enjoy your Mother's day everybody, Mothers are an important part of life, and we all work hard! The coupon code for Wingless by Holly Hood is TB92X, and it expires on May 9th. Thanks for the support and I hope you all enjoy Wingless!!

Grateful

I have never been so happy and excited about life. But I really truly am, I have the perfect family, they make me happy. The best life, amazing kids and a loving, supportive, amazing husband. A best friend that makes me happy each time I talk to her, and I am able to do what I love, and that is write books. I am an author, and I am making a name for myself, on my own. I always liked the goal of becoming one, and I sat around waiting for some big wig to tell me that I was accepted. But now I don't care, after finding out about indie authors, and hearing all the great success stories, there is nothing I would rather do. Being indie is my way of life, its what I was meant to do. I have always wanted to be my own person, dance to the beat of my drum (probably the robot, or running man). And to me if I can do what I love, there is nothing better.
And maybe one day there will be a publishing house out there that wants to work with me, that would just be another goal to cross off my check list. Doing what you love means the world, so to me everyone should have a chance, no matter how to do that.
I was told today by a fan of my book series.. that I just "get it". ANd I must say that truly was an honor to hear. Because I write feelings, I pour my heart into what I write, I look for way to provoke emotions in others. And to hear someone cried about my writing, and that the books are still in their head. That is amazing, and I don't think it will ever really sink in. Each time I hear about my books, its brand new to me. I love it! I write these stories, and sometimes feel like I am really running these characters lives, they grow to be a part of me. And when other people say things like "I felt like I was in the book" or they were so connected, I feel like I've done my job.
I am super tired, yet I still am sitting her thinking about writing. Thinking about the storyline, couting the hours until I can get up and get another chance at some more chapters.
My best friend and I agree that book six is the best one yet, book six is great on so many levels. And I believe the readers will be blown away, I still don't know how I will end this one. Or who Eve will choose to be with, its become very hard for her to do so. I feel sorry for her, but I know there will be a great story to take us all on the ride for the answer, and that answer I think is, Will she ever find peace and just be happy!?
Another good friend of mine is reading Gypsies, she is in love with one of the character's Mason. (I don't blame her at all haha) She told me she liked this one even more then Wingless. And hopes I find a way to write the second book, which I really trying hard to figure out. I want to badly, but yet again I am at a crossroads with this.
I find myself wanting to venture into new ideas and stories, especially my circus one, I also have a unique story about a guy who travels through time, the interesting part is he gets there by tapping into other's daydreaming, or thoughts. Thats all I have so far, but I would love to venture into it. I also have to finish my third person story, Road to ruins. This murder mystery has me on my toes, and is actually quite fun. I am not a third person gal, but it really worked.
And finally I want to review others books, which I have started already. I love giving back to authors, and supporting them as well. We indies can use all the support we can get. Well I think I will go watch the real world, and then head to bed.
By the way, did anyone watch the new show The Voice? It is amazing, I loved it!!

Book giveaway

Today I have decided to do a giveaway on my blog. I am giving away copies of Wingless for five days. Anyone interested can use the coupon code, of course you would have to have some device to download the book. (Kindle,Nook,Ipod touch, blackberry, Kobo,Computer etc.) Part of me is curious if blogging works well enough to reach readers. And the other part wants to share the series with the world lol
So if you happen to stumble across my blog and love reading, then feel free to try my book. Post a comment, let me know what you think. And always feel free to follow me. I love indie authors,I love readers. I like getting to know other people out there doing the same thing that I am doing.

The coupon code is : JB25V And here is description of my series:

Eve's life was never perfect, she knew this. If only her family realized the same thing. The loss of Marcus, her brother, The one person who made life tolerable was gone, death stole him away from her. And she was angry, sad, and emotionally beaten.
Eve's only wish now in life was for death to take a hike, but that was never going to happen. Because death found Eve to be simply perfect, everything anyone could ask for in a girl. That was Eve.

When Eve's brother Marcus dies, she knows there will never be another person that compares to him. She is sucked into a debilitating depression that she fears she will never survive. She never feels the same after his loss. And after a few years, the pain has found a way to turn into a nagging state of contemplation for her.
And when she feels she will never find a way to gain her sense of normalcy back, she meets an unusual guy who keeps her on her toes, and longing to know more. But, there is nothing normal about him and this pulls her into his world. He is the part of life Eve has been trying to get past, a part she never thought existed in real life- Death. And when death literally walks the earth, and creeps into your heart, it is very hard to see any part of life the same way again.

Wingless is a book about life through the eyes of a young girl who simply wants to live. It takes a look at life through deaths eyes. And you see the struggles for two beings to love one another when that shouldn’t be possible. Would it be possible to love someone who could hurt you as nobody else could? Would you love a person who could take everything away from you? Wingless lets you see that not everything is what it seems. And it can have you maybe for a quick moment look at things from another point of view. In all the chaos that is life, it is possible to find love amongst all the ugliness?

Today

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oouFE51HcqM

I am addicted to the Zac Brown band's song "Colder weather" Thanks to one of my friends mentioning it to me. I am not one for a lot of country music but this one is amazing.

Today feels like a long day, I say feels because its not over yet.

Today at the dentist I mapped out the rest of book six. This is not something I do ever, but it all came to me. Actually yesterday the majority of it came to me on the drive to Mom jr's. We went there yesterday to congratulate James on his graduation from the police academy. It was a fun time, we ate cake and pizza. The kids played and got to chat with the ladies. lol Something I don't do that often anymore.

James had the kids play musical chairs, something so simple turned into a laugh fest. The kids were hardcore players. Of course out of the seven kids there were a few who were sore losers. (One of mine) Even a few adults got in on the fun, I was hoping for a wrestling match between the married couple for the lil tykes chair but they disapointed me. Which for this group is shocking because they are a wacky bunch. We all concluded that musical chairs may be a fun drinking game for the adults, and I told Rob on the way home I wasn't sure if anyone would want to play with me....I would throw some elbows and probably fight someone over a chair. lmao

Probably the funniest part of the trip to Anne's (mom Jr) was the fact James had no idea we were even coming to celebrate his graduating. He didn't know until she was hanging the banners up ...on second thought maybe they should rethink him as a cop haha just kidding.

We got all the easter stuff for the kids baskets today..since we have made so many trips to the dentist, I opted out of candy. We instead got them all some of their favorite things... Zaynah got Tangled, bubbles,makeup etc... Zoey got her last Diary of a wimpy kid she needed, notebooks, pens, pencils (I got a future writer on my hands) and Rlee his favorite game Lego Star Wars 2, he is a huge fan of the Lego games, and is thrilled they are coming out with a Pirates one. Just have to throw in some more of his Wrestling Rumblers and he will be all set.

We are having a big easter egg hunt here with the family, and a nice dinner on saturday and Sunday. I can not wait because Easter is my favorite holiday!

Book sales are doing great, I have gained a lot of readers and I am beyong thrilled about that. I also have figured out a lot on promotion of my series. I have my best friend Brandi editing for me, and as she put it my book looks so good she could lick it lmao So I take it its pretty good.

Now off to the kid's school for some school activities. One more day and they are off for a three day weekend!!!