True Fodder by S.L. Dearing – Cover Reveal


True Fodder
A Horror Short Story
by
S.L. Dearing

My latest tiny tale is that of terror, ladies and gentlemen.
It will be available to the masses on October 21, 2014.

When Jackson Montgomery and Miranda Stuart are partnered up during the company Team Building weekend, neither of them could be less thrilled. Out in the middle of a forest, paint-ball guns in hand, the duo set off to “take down” their peers. Yet in the process, they wander off course, and when they set off to find their way back, they run across a fairy ring, and temptation.

Things aren’t always what they appear and when these “frenemies” are pulled into a nightmare, can they put aside their differences and escape?

True Fodder is a Paranormal Horror Short Story.

Add to your reading list today!
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23299378-true-fodder
But for the moment, here is my AMAZING cover,
designed by Rene Folsom at Phycel Designs… Enjoy

TrueFodder-ebook-web

Meet My Character Blog Tour!!


Here are the rules as they were sent to me for the Meet My Character Blog Tour

“This tour highlights a main character from your WIP (work in progress), recently published work, or soon to be published work. The person who invites you will have a set day to post. You will post one (or two) week(s) after that, the authors you tag will post one/two week(s) after you, and so on. Here are the questions to answer about your main character:

1) What is the name of your character? Is he/she fictional or a historic person?

2) When and where is the story set?

3) What should we know about him/her?

4) What is the main conflict? What messes up his/her life?

5) What is the personal goal of the character?

6) Is there a working title for this novel if it is a WIP, and can we read more about it? OR what is the title of this novel and where can it be found?

If a WIP: 7) When can we expect the book to be published?”

Let’s start with a little info about the author who tagged me, Michael Loring!

Michael Loring was born in Bristol, Connecticut, but has lived in a variety of places such as Florida and Tennessee. He likes to think of himself as an amateur Lycanthropologist, studying werewolves ever since he was eight years old when he first saw An American Werewolf In London. He spent most of his life switching between home school and public school, always focusing on his passion for writing no matter what. His interest in writing was sparked in the second grade when his teacher encouraged him to write short stories for the class, earning him more than one award at school assemblies for Creative Writing. He currently resides in Punta Gorda, FL with his father who, for some unexplainable reason, avoids him during the night of the full moon.

Now, let’s meet, Alia Stark!!

1) What is the name of your character? Is he/she fictional or a historic person? Well, her name is Alia Stark. She’s the queen of a fictional village called Lia Fail.

2) When and where is the story set? The story is set in the fictitious village of Lia Fail, which sits in the Santa Monica Mountains of Southern California, sometime in the future. There is no determined time frame.

3) What should we know about him/her? Alia is the queen of Lia Fail. She’s mother (many times over), a widow, a fighter. She has survived the destruction of the world as we know it and still manages to see the best in people. She is intelligent, loving and loyal. She is a pagan/witch, as is the village of Lia Fail, a pagan village (although all faiths, or those with no faith, are welcome).

4) What is the main conflict? What messes up his/her life? In this next installment, there is once again someone desperate to destroy what Alia has built. They will use whatever means are at their disposal to take everything she holds dear. And once again, she has to discover who it is and stop them in their tracks.

5) What is the personal goal of the character? Alia’s goal is to live out the rest of her life as peacefully and joyfully as possible, but as the Shape and other villains continually come after her, and the magic of the inter-dimensional world has now bridged to our own, she is constantly having to fight to protect what she loves.

6) Is there a working title for this novel if it is a WIP, and can we read more about it? OR what is the title of this novel and where can it be found? The WIP is a novel that is entitled The Bridging: Book Two of the Lia Fail Chronicles. The two books before it are The Gathering: Book One of the Lia Fail Chronicles and From The Gathering to The Bridging: A Lia Fail Short Story Collection. The shorts are my way of keeping fans in the know as well as expanding on back story that will be essential to the next full length novel. So, between each full length novel will be a series of shorts to cover the time frame between books. For instance, there is a year and half time span between the end of The Gathering and the beginning of The Bridging.

7) When can we expect the book to be published?” I’m looking to publish in November if 2014, fingers crossed.

My Two Tagged Authors are:

V. Cantrell

I graduated from Eastfield College and live in a small town in Texas with my husband, two children, and my cute little dogs Reeces and Pancake. I work full-time, on top of editing for Hot Tree Editing and writing for myself has been an on going process for a few years now. My busy life means when I can I seek out relaxation by escaping into a good book. Inspired by the many amazing indie authors I’ve met along my editing journey, I found the courage to follow my dream of publishing my first novel.

I fully embrace my one-click addiction, always love the idea of a happily ever after, but there is no denying I have a massive soft spot for the bad boys.

Kick back and share the journey with me it will be quite a ride! Visit her blog V. Cantrell

Bart Hopkins

I was born in Galveston, Texas, in the middle of the 1970s. Swimming and surfing were the center of my little universe for a while. I can’t recall exactly when it happened, but during one of the hot summers of my childhood, maybe 1982 or 1983, I sat down with the first book that I would read for pleasure. It was a foreign concept to me, but my dad had given me the book, so I figured I’d give it a try.
My life changed rapidly. I frequently remained indoors that summer, reading book after book that I had borrowed from the public library. The thirst was unquenchable. It would be a year or so before my life found balance, morphing into equal parts rolling in the dirt, playing in the water, and reading. Along with the reading came some writing. Many notepads would be filled with random scribblings. Many ideas would hit paper and sit idly … for a while, anyway.
After high school, and a year at Texas A&M (Galveston), I enlisted in the US Air Force in 1994 and left Texas for the first time. Since then, Mississippi, Louisiana, Tennessee, Kentucky, South Korea, and Germany are places I’ve called home. I’ve been lucky enough to live overseas and travel around Europe. Made forays into Bosnia and Kuwait for Uncle Sam. Lots of little side trips–always an interesting time.
In Mississippi I met my beautiful wife, Perla, and we added three children to the clan. Life was busy. Somewhere amid the madness I went back to school, and tied up those loose ends. Life remained busy. Life
seemed to be complete. Almost was complete…
Then the writing resurfaced. Wow, it’s been an amazing ride so far. It’s a strange thing when you find something you’re truly passionate about. That’s writing for me.
Visit his website Bart Hopkins

 

Say My Name by Michael Loring


Say My Name Michael Loring

Say My Name is a thrilling short story in the horror vein written by author, Michael Loring.  It was first published in an anthology STALKERS: A Collection of Thriller Stories

Stalkers Cover

that was complied and edited by Cynthia Shepp and Rene Folsom, (I also had a short story in this anthology, but alas, I must admit I have been lax in ready my fellow brethren, thus my beginning to embark on the Stalker journey to review all the stories in this anthology, much as I did when I read Twist). So, please find below, my opinion of Say My Name by Michael Loring.

REVIEW

I have enjoyed Michael Loring’s other shorts, and I can add this one to the list. Loring has the ability to create likable characters that pull you in immediately without knowing much about them, thus creating a need in the reader to root for said character as they go on whatever journey Loring sends them.

Say My Name is no different. Loring creates a scenario that we are immediately drawn into and builds tension that grows with each turn of the page. I thought this story, which was originally published in the anthology Stalkers, was a different and interesting take on the Stalkers idea.

Truly great read… Fantastic ending.

 

5 pink stars

 

 

A Menu of Death by Lucy Pireel – Book Blast and Giveaway


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A Menu of Death

A collection of stories centered around vengeance, obsession, cravings, and life.

Pick one item of the Menu or devour the entire buffet
Make sure you don’t bite off more than you can chew
Read, but not with greed for
Death awaits, ready to come and collect its due

These eight short stories revolve around obsession, revenge, craving, love, and Death. Whether it be a woman in need of rescue, a man who hungers for his wife, a demon lost, or wishes come true, all characters want something. Badly.
But … You can’t always get what you want, but you might just get what you need.

Available at:
Amazon
Kobo http://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/a-menu-of-death
Smashwords https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/358650
Whitcoulls
iTunes
Barnes&Noble
Sony

3D-MofD

About the author

Lucy Pireel is a writer who doesn’t let herself be restricted to any one genre. She loves to write in whatever direction her current story leads her.  When she’s not writing, or reading, she is practicing or teaching yoga, her other passion. Or she could be on a long hike somewhere in the beautiful British nature.

Being an author it is almost a given she has a great love for chocolate and coffee to live on while writing, but she doesn’t shy away from trying to prepare intricate dishes, for cooking is another thing she enjoys.

Should you want to follow her she can be found at:
http://www.lucypireel.com
http://www.lucypireel.wordpress.com
https://plus.google.com/u/0/105731497321102858244/posts
https://twitter.com/LucyPireel
https://www.facebook.com/AuthorpageLucyPireel
http://lucypireel.booklikes.com/
http://www.authorsdb.com/component/content/article/8-authors/874-lucy-pireel
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6536994.Lucy_Pireel
http://about.me/lucypireel

 Please Enter the Rafflecopter.  The Link is below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Cover Reveal of The Gathering: Book One of the Lia Fail Chronicles by S. L. Dearing


Cover Reveal and Re-Release Party for
The Gathering: Book One of the Lia Fail Chronicles by S.L. Dearing

Synopsis: Another world war has happened and everything we knew is now gone. There are no more countries. No more government… only survivors who have created a new world made up of small colonies. It has been thirteen years and the village of Lia Fail sits peacefully above the Hollywood Reservoir in the Santa Monica Mountains. The settlement is making ready to host the fall Gathering, a time where every six months the other colonies from various parts of what was once Southern California visit for ten days of fun and reminiscence. The Gathering begins as any other party. A time for new loves, old friends, family, dancing and fun, but all too soon that changes. The people in Lia Fail begin to experience strange goings on they can’t explain, unseen forces attack several guests and friends begin to distrust friends. When they receive news of a horrific massacre, they realize they must face an impending dark evil that threatens to descend on the tranquil village.

Alia Stark, the queen of Lia Fail, must face this darkness. But she will face the evil along side her oldest and dearest friends, as well as an amazing new ally. The fate of her people, the lives of her children and freedom itself rests in her hands. Will she have the courage to do what must be done?

This is the beginning of a journey that will change all of their lives forever.

The Gathering: Book One of the Lia Fail Chronicles is the first in a new Paranormal, Fantasy, and Adventure Series.

Gathering Cover

Links:
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/The-Gathering-Book-Chronicles-ebook/dp/B004DCB5X2/
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Gathering-Book-Chronicles-ebook/dp/B004DCB5X2/
Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-gathering-s-l-dearing/1025141705
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10735287-the-gathering
Shelfari: http://www.shelfari.com/o1514822952
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheLiaFailChronicles

Join us October 5 from 3-7pm PST on Facebook for a grand party event. There will be games and prizes from LOTS of authors and Swag artists. Please come and join the fun!!

https://www.facebook.com/events/523140221098615/

About the Author: Although she grew up in Arizona, S. L. Dearing was born and raised in California and considers the Golden State her home. Shannon attended Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, studying biology, then moved to Los Angeles where she spent several years studying at Los Angeles City College’s renowned Television/ Film program. She learned the art of storytelling from her father when she was very young and has been writing since the tender age of five. As an author of many genres, she is always hoping to learn more by exploring the world of story.

S.L.Dearing

She has written her first novel The Gathering: Book One of the Lia Fail Chronicles. She also has short stories in several anthologies: Apocalypse: An Anthology by Readers & Authors, Paranormal Anthology with a Twist and the soon to be released Stalkers: A Collection of Thriller Stories. Shannon currently resides in Los Angeles.

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/sldearing
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/S.L.Dearing.Author
Website: http://www.sldearing.com

Blog-TheGathering-cover-reveal

 

TWIST Reviews – One Story at a Time – Metronome by Eaton Thomas Palmer


Disclaimer: These reviews pertain to stories in the anthology – Paranormal Anthology with a TWIST.  I have a story in this book (Bloodlines – I won’t be reviewing my story ;), so many feel that I cannot objectively review other stories in the same book I am also featured in… that being said, to each their own, I know my own level of integrity.  Thus, people can choose to believe me or not.  I want to review them and give my opinion… so I am.

Paranormal Anthology with a TWIST

Synopsis: Dr. Edgar Collins has his hands full with attempting to rehabilitate Matthew, and it’s no wonder with IT interfering.

Review: I was so impressed with this story.  I did not see the end coming and was pleasantly surprised.  Eaton Thomas Palmer writes with true grit and grime.  I could see the walls of the facility, the doctors and rooms.  All of his characters were fully developed and the TWIST was totally fulfilling.  All in all, a great anchor story!  I look forward to seeing what else, Mr. Palmer delivers us in the future.

5 pink stars

Eaton Thomas Palmer was born and raised in the Midwest, and entered the business world because it was the thing to do. It has never been satisfying to him. He has always been creative and finally realized that he is a storyteller. He began writing when he was fifty. Writing is a passion for him and he want to share his stories with people.

 

 

 

TWIST Reviews – One Story at a Time – Little Tchotchkes by Nicki Scalise


Disclaimer: These reviews pertain to stories in the anthology – Paranormal Anthology with a TWIST.  I have a story in this book (Bloodlines – I won’t be reviewing my story ;), so many feel that I cannot objectively review other stories in the same book I am also featured in… that being said, to each their own, I know my own level of integrity.  Thus, people can choose to believe me or not.  I want to review them and give my opinion… so I am.

Paranormal Anthology with a TWIST

Synopsis: What is a vampire to do when he has to feed?  He hunts, but the game of cat and mouse this vampire plays may be his undoing.

Review: This story was GREAT!!  Talk about a beautifully written exercise in terror.  Nicki Scalise has written a fantastic tale.  I can’t give anything away, but this was wonderful!  Seriously, well written, well thought out and what a TWIST!!  Definitely a 5 star read!!

5 pink stars

Nicki Scalise has also contributed to Apocalypse: An Anthology by Readers & Authors.

Nicki Scalise is co-founder of A Thousand Lives Book Blog. She currently resides in Colorado with her husband and menagerie of pets. When not sitting at her desk staring blankly into space she is hard at work on her first novel.

Apocalypse cover

You can read her book reviews and general ramblings at:

Blog: http://www.thousandlivesbookblog.blogspot.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ Pageturnersbookaddicts

TWIST Reviews – One Story at a Time – In the Eyes of the Beholder by Penelope Bartotto


Disclaimer: These reviews pertain to stories in the anthology – Paranormal Anthology with a TWIST.  I have a story in this book (Bloodlines – I won’t be reviewing my story ;), so many feel that I cannot objectively review other stories in the same book I am also featured in… that being said, to each their own, I know my own level of integrity.  Thus, people can choose to believe me or not.  I want to review them and give my opinion… so I am.

Paranormal Anthology with a TWIST

Synopsis: Whenever Dom thinks about Rose’s hazel eyes, he knows that she’s the one… the one to make his life complete.  But Rose isn’t the girl that Dom thinks she is.  Love is a tricky thing and its all in The Eyes of the Beholder.

Review: This was a great story that seemed to have a little bit of everything.  It kept me guessing and I didn’t see the end coming at all.  There are lots of TWISTs and turns and I found myself truly engaged in the characters.  Again, I didn’t see this TWIST coming and was pleasantly surprised when it did come.  I thought it was well written and full of imagination.

4 pink stars

This is Penelope Bartotto’s first published anthology.

Penelope Anne Bartotto, was born, raised, and still calls Wisconsin her home. She has been writing since she could hold a pencil correctly, and continues to ramble. Married to her soulmate, she finds pride in being a homeschooling parent to three not-so-young cubs. She has worn many hats from cashier to Boy Scout Leader, but currently tries to hold on tight to her… book blogging, tour coordinating, insane author hat. When not found in front of her computer, she loves to craft, quilt, draw, paint, and read.

Follow Penelope Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ PenelopeAnneBartotto

Author Blog: libraryendofuniverse.blogspot.com

TWIST Reviews – One Story at a Time – All I Want For Christmas by Jason Brant


Disclaimer: These reviews pertain to stories in the anthology – Paranormal Anthology with a TWIST.  I have a story in this book (Bloodlines – I won’t be reviewing my story ;), so many feel that I cannot objectively review other stories in the same book I am also featured in… that being said, to each their own, I know my own level of integrity.  Thus, people can choose to believe me or not.  I want to review them and give my opinion… so I am.

Paranormal Anthology with a TWIST

 

Synopsis:  A glimpse into the diary of a 13 year old girl.  The drama, the anguish and the joy… as we see exactly what she wants for Christmas.

Review: Jason Brant expertly takes us into the world of a teenage girl.  I felt as if this could be any thirteen-year-old’s diary.  All of the angst and drama, as well as the humor.  I was surprised by the TWIST in this story, which is great! After all, I am the TWIST detective.  It’s an easy read and extremely enjoyable.  Well done, Mr. Brant!!

5 pink stars

 

Jason Brant grew up in the mountains of western Pennsylvania where he eventually graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania.  After spending more than half a decade working as a Digital Forensics Analyst contractor for the Department of Defense, Jason prefers to spend his time writing and watching movies.  As a Steelers fan living outside of Baltimore, Jason and his wife Erin spend most of their days dodging flying cans of National Bohemian Beer being thrown at them by Ravens fans.

Jason Brant has several other novels available at online retailers.

3 Supernatural Thrillers Aces High Echoes Gehenna Holiday Wishes Sheol Tartarus The Dark The Gate West Hell of the Omnibus

 

Apocalypse cover

TWIST Reviews – One Story at a Time – Sweet Lenora by Bart Hopkins


Disclaimer: These reviews pertain to stories in the anthology – Paranormal Anthology with a TWIST.  I have a story in this book (Bloodlines – I won’t be reviewing my story ;), so many feel that I cannot objectively review other stories in the same book I am also featured in… that being said, to each their own, I know my own level of integrity.  Thus, people can choose to believe me or not.  I want to review them and give my opinion… so I am.

Paranormal Anthology with a TWIST

Synopsis: Young Lenora is a dutiful daughter who abides by her mother’s wishes, despite the fact that she is becoming a woman and struggles to fly free in a position obsessed 1930s town.  But Sweet, Sweet Lenora is about to learn that freedom has it’s dangers.

Review:  I was thoroughly impressed with Bart Hopkins grasp of protocol and position in this story.  Although, I felt that this was taking place a few years earlier (turn of the century) as opposed to the 1930s.  However, this did not take away from the story.  Once again, the author’s style has an easily readable flow and his description is felt.  When Lenora is excited, I felt it, when she is disappointed, I felt it.  I thought the TWIST was going one way, then it took a turn.  Ultimately, I did have an idea where it was going, but that’s me and I’m a little bit of a TWIST detective.  I very much enjoyed this story and it was beautifully executed.

4 pink stars

Bart Hopkins is also the author of Texas Jack and Fluke (Co-Author David Elliot). Both are available on Amazon.

Bart Hopkins is originally from Galveston, Texas. He has been serving as an Air Force Meteorologist for over 18 years and is currently stationed in Germany. His passions include reading, traveling, photography, writing, and sharing time with his beautiful wife and three awesome children.

Fluke Texas Jack