Coming up...

So not much action has been happening on the blog lately. That is mostly my fault. Okay, it's all my fault. Besides using all my work time to promote my new release, Sigil in Shadow, adult life has tightened the reins on me in the past weeks. I'm halfway through my pregnancy and completely exhausted. When I'm not house hunting, packing, promoting, running after my two year old, and doing general household upkeep, I'm working on my next book.

But in those quiet moments in between I AM reading! Stories (whether in print or film) are one of my favorite things in the whole world. No matter how busy I get, I'll always make time for reading and writing. In fact, here are several things that are in the works and will be up on the blog soon...

Book Review of The Time Key!

Author interview with Ryan Troske!

Editorial Post: "Not feeling it? Close the book."

And....

Series Review: The Rhodi Saga

Happy Reading!

Quick Update

I've gotten a lot of the same questions lately, mostly about Bloodstones and Sigil in Shadow . I decided to write up a bunch of answers so I can direct everyone here. If you're reading this, I hope you find this update interesting and informative!

"I can't take the suspense any longer! When is Bloodstones coming out?"

 

If you've followed Onyx Moon since it's Kickstarter campaign, you'll probably remember that I estimated that the sequel, Bloodstones would be out this month. *awkward silence* First off, I greatly apologize for this failure. When I started writing Bloodstones, I never expected to get distracted and possessed by an idea I just had to get on paper. I never dreamed that idea would actually become complete and that a publisher would actually take it on. (Okay, maybe I did dream of it a little. That's the first step in making things happen.) But I still stand by the fact that the delay in Bloodstones is not my fault...not entirely...maybe about half.

Anyway, to answer the question, according to my writing plan for this year, a plan that I've added a lot of flexibility to, Bloodstones will be in your hands around the New Year. I hope you'll forgive me and be patient as I write and perfect the story that Ora and Doeryan deserve. Remember, The Onyx Moon Trilogy is a one woman show. I am in charge of writing, editing, layout, cover design, distribution, and marketing. I'm thrilled that so many people are waiting for the sequel, but I want to do it all the right way. And that may take some time. In the future, I promise not to leave you in suspense for so long.

"What are you working on right now?" 

I have a few things in the works right now. None of them is official, except Bloodstones, obviously. At the moment, most of my brain power is going to promoting the release of my next book, Sigil in Shadow, which will hit shelves July 12th. The paperback is now available for pre-order on Amazon and Barnes and Noble. I am currently setting up book signings and a blog tour. If you are a blogger and would like to participate in the tour (probably July/August) please email me at diffjonespress (at) gmail (dot) com. Or contact my publisher, Cedar Fort, Inc.  They should have electronic and print copies available for reviewers.     

Between spurts of living my happy little life, I am alternating between writing Bloodstones and the sequel to Sigil in Shadow. In addition, shortly before the release of Bloodstones, I plan on re-releasing the ebook for Onyx Moon. This special edition will have a beautiful new cover, deleted scenes, character Q&A, as well as original artwork and the first chapter of Bloodstones. But best of all, this new version will be absolutely free! What? Yes! Free! More details on that to come.

"Are you going to have giveaways for Sigil in Shadow?"

 

Yes! One of the ways I will do this is through Goodreads. Entering a giveaway on Goodreads is very simple. You just click the giveaway and you're entered! To make sure you're notified of the giveaway, go ahead and add Sigil in Shadow to your Goodreads "Want to Read" list now.

Click Link 

"How do you balance writing and real life?"

I think "balance" is a very generous word. I actually plan on doing a blog post about this but, judging from the way I've "balanced" things lately, it could be awhile. Truthfully, this post you're reading now is one I started TWO WEEKS ago and had to keep putting aside because other things came up.

And it's not just writing that I have to work into my schedule. If you're an author, you're probably also a marketer, networker, reader, and book reviewer - in addition to your day job. Somehow, I make it work. Eventually, when I find the time, I'll sit down and type out a few tips in a post probably not called "How to Balance Writing and Real Life" but more appropriately named "How to Eventually Get Stuff Done."

"What are you going to review next?"

In no particular order, these are books I plan to get done and reviewed on the blog by summer.

   As well as other books and ARCs

Sigil in Shadow

Here it is! Everything is official...

Available

In Stores and Online

July 12th

 

 

 Ellary Dane knows she deserves to die


- but not for a crime she didn’t commit.


She believes her 19 year streak of bad luck is over when she accidentally saves the life of a highborn officer and is taken to court to study under the tutelage of the most renowned healer in the kingdom. Suspicions surround her sudden presence, making her more enemies than allies. She soon finds herself ripped from her warm palace sheets and thrown into a dank prison cell.

As nobles vie for their spot on the throne, Ellary learns she is bound to a secret history that could change the kingdom forever. If she is going to break her chains, she must trust the charming stranger labeled as her accomplice and face the lie that pushed her into the silent warfare of highborn society.

Now available to

 Add to Goodreads

and 

 

 Pre-Order

1 Year Later

It was about this time last year that I started this blog, released Onyx Moon, and started establishing myself as a legit author. Since starting this journey, the connections I've made and lessons I've learned have proven to be priceless. I was blown away by the overwhelming support of my family and friends. I couldn't have kept up the lifestyle of a writer without the understanding friends I blew off to spend my free nights hunched over my computer, the readers badgering me to know when the next book is coming out, all the people who showed up to my events, and the pep talks from my fellow authors.


Book Reviews

Through book reviews and volunteering for ARCs, I've gotten to know some very talented authors. I've been blessed to read their stories and learn from their strengths. I never thought I'd grow up and actually enjoy doing a book report but I absolutely live for it! I love sharing my opinion and helping to promote my new favorite books. I know just how important it is that books, especially independently published, get reviews on blogs and sites like Amazon and Goodreads. These days, people not only judge books by their covers, but also by how many people have read them. Regardless if a book has all 5 star reviews or all 2 star reviews, as long as it has at least 100 posted ratings, the book is going to get attention. That's why leaving a review for a book you've read, even a not so great review, is SO important to the author. It's like leaving us a tip. Except it doesn't cost you any extra money. ;)

All the reviews I've done are based on my personal preferences and opinions It's hard sometimes when a book doesn't really thrill me. Being an author myself, I hate writing bad reviews. I know how much work goes into a book whether or not one specific reader enjoyed it. But I've come to believe that all books have their reader. So I always try to find some aspect of the book I appreciated, whether it be a relate-able character, good narration, or just a fun concept. Just because I didn't like it, doesn't mean it won't be someone else's cup of cocoa.


Highlights of the Year

* Holding a lifelong dream in my hands for the first time, instead of reading it on the computer.

* My first book signing. So many emotions (mostly anxiety) and the perfect day to launch my career.

* Selling out of my first, second, and third print run!

* Getting my new computer! I don't have to plug this one into the wall and strap duct tape to it.

* Being featured in my local paper.

* Reading all of Onyx Moon's great reviews online.

* My niece talking to me about my book.

* Interviewing all of the authors that agreed to be on my little blog. :)

* Drinking "gourmet" cocoa while I work on a secret project. 

* Actually having more than one publisher interested in that new project and having to choose which publisher I wanted. That seriously did not feel like real life.

* Announcing my secret project...Sigil in Shadow!

* Doing my first radio interview.

* Seeing Sigil's finalized cover. I'll share it with you as soon as I get the green light. I promise!




 Coming in 2016

I'll definitely keep up with indie reviews as much as I can, but man, I've got a lot on my plate for this next year. One thing I'm really excited about is that this website is going to get a makeover. Yep! That's right! I really want to streamline things and find a theme that best represents my books. I'll be working with a designer soon and hopefully have an updated website by February. Also, I'll be available on Twitter soon so be sure to follow me. :)

A lot of people have been curious about the second book in the Onyx Moon Trilogy, Bloodstones. Things are definitely progressing, but I'll admit, it's slow going. If you've read Onyx Moon, you know that it's really like two books in one. While Bloodstones will be shorter, bringing the two story lines together has taken a lot of work. It took 8 years of stop and go to write the first one, but I promise, you won't have to wait nearly that long. The sequel is my main writing focus as of right now, but sometimes I have to push that manuscript to the back burner in order to work on promotions or finalizing things for Sigil in Shadow's release. For this reason, I'm not quite ready to give an official release date for the second book. But I will as soon as I finish the first draft.

Meanwhile, Sigil in Shadow will be in stores July 12th and will soon be available for pre-order wherever you buy books online. I'm setting plans in place for the release party and book signings, giveaways, as well as a book trailer. I can't wait to share everything with you!

One last thing....Remember when I said Sigil was a standalone novel?? Well, turns out I can't even follow my own advice. As I was finishing up the last pre-edited draft, I realized that there is another character or two that needs their story told as well. So, nothing is official, but don't be surprised to find a sequel in The Shadow Saga around the corner!

Happy New Year!!!!     

         

Radio Interview

A few weeks ago I was able to sit down and have a chat with author and radio host Leesia Champion on her show Take Your Seat. Even though I was really nervous, (my first radio interview! ahhh!!!) I think I did okay. We talk about everything from the airline I used to work for, writing while juggling a two year old, and my plans for a Sigil in Shadow book tour. Have a listen!

*~*~*~*Click Here*~*~*~*

to listen to 
the full Broadcast!

Sigil in Shadow - Release Date and Announcements

 

 I've teamed up with publisher Cedar Fort to put my newest book, Sigil in Shadow, in stores 

July 12th 2016!

I can't even begin to describe how excited I am for all of this to move forward. Right now I'm working with the extraordinary CF team to bring Sigil to it's full potential. Thank you for being patient while I've been working out all the details. We are also busy scheduling the cover reveal, ARC's, launch party, and book signings. As soon as more information is pinned down, you'll be the first to know!

~~~~~~~~

Ellary Dane knows she deserves to die

- but not for a crime she didn’t commit.

She thinks her 19 year streak of bad luck is over when she accidentally saves the life of a highborn officer and is taken to court to study under the tutelage of the most renowned healer in the kingdom. Suspicions surround her sudden presence, making her more enemies than allies. She soon finds herself ripped from her warm palace sheets and thrown into a dank prison cell.

As nobles vie for their spot on the throne, Ellary learns she is bound to a secret history that could change the kingdom forever. If she is going to break her chains, she must trust the stranger labeled as her accomplice and face the lie that pushed her into the silent warfare of highborn society.

  

Writing Hangover

 

 

You other authors know what I'm talking about. Finishing the draft of a manuscript, sending it off, and then having that haze over you while you play the waiting game.

For like two days my I wandered around not knowing what to do with my strictly scheduled free time. It almost feels like the first day of summer vacation when you still feel like you have homework to do. One night the hubs lost his shift for his work from home job and was excited to make plans with me. I was like, "That would be nice, but if you're not hogging the computer I should really work on my...Oh wait..."

We had a pleasantly rare evening. We went out to eat at one of our favorite local places and played a card game while watching a movie after we put the kid to bed. The whole time I felt like there is something I should have been doing, writing wise.

Of course there is. There is always book stuff that needs to be done. I've come to accept that I will die without writing all the books that I need to write. Next on the to do list while I'm waiting to get my manuscript back is finishing Bloodstones, the second book in the Onyx Moon trilogy. I paused in the middle of the first draft to get Sigil in Shadow out before my head exploded. And of course, once you publish a book, you can never stop promoting.

And I will. I'll get back to all of that. But for now I think I just need a short sabbatical to rewire my brain. I'm still so rooted in the kingdom from Sigil in Shadow that it's hard to think of anything else; In the real world and in my head. The world of Alethia seems so out of reach. I see it, but it's just far away at the moment.

I just need a week or two in reality. I need to play outside with my daughter more now that the weather is becoming tolerable. And read more "gooks" to her, if that's even possible. My husband also deserves a little more attention. He's so patient and supportive of my need to write on a daily basis. He's given up a lot of game nights and set back watching "our" shows so that I can get things done on time.

I also need to reconnect with my friends. I am a terrible friend and I know it. A lot of times, instead of going out I'll think, "well, I really need to get X and Y done..." before you know it, my friends forget what my voice sounds like.

Don't worry, I'll still be reading and reviewing. I don't think I could ever quit that. I should have the next review up in less than a week. But for now, I'm going to take a few guilt-free naps and socialize a bit before I retreat back into my chaotic head for several months. 

Cover Reveal Giveaway

Below are two possible covers for my upcoming novel, Sigil in Shadow. Help me decide! Vote for your favorite in the comments or on Facebook. A voter will be chosen at random and win the first signed copy! Winner will be announced next month. 


Both covers designed by Clarissa Yeo @ yocladesigns.com

Ellary Dane knows she deserves to die

- but not for a crime she didn’t commit.

She thinks her 19 year streak of bad luck is over when she accidentally saves the life of a highborn officer and is taken to court to study under the tutelage of the most renowned healer in the kingdom. Suspicions surround her sudden presence, making her more enemies than allies. She soon finds herself ripped from her warm palace sheets and thrown into a dank prison cell.

As nobles vie for their spot on the throne, Ellary learns she is bound to a secret history that could change the kingdom forever. If she is going to break her chains, she must trust the stranger labeled as her accomplice and face the lie that pushed her into the silent warfare of highborn society.

Vote to enter!                         A.

B. 

Announcing: Sigil in Shadow

Ellary Dane knows she deserves to die

- but not for a crime she didn’t commit.

She thinks her 19 year streak of bad luck is over when she accidentally saves the life of a highborn officer and is taken to court to study under the tutelage of the most renowned healer in the kingdom. Suspicions surround her sudden presence, making her more enemies than allies. She soon finds herself ripped from her warm palace sheets and thrown into a dank prison cell.

As nobles vie for their spot on the throne, Ellary learns she is bound to a secret history that could change the kingdom forever. If she is going to break her chains, she must trust the stranger labeled as her accomplice and face the lie that pushed her into the silent warfare of highborn society.

***NOTE: This book is completely separate from the Onyx Moon trilogy.***

Sigil in Shadow is the project I've been working on for the last several months. There is no set release date, as I am working with several publishing options. This book wasn't planned, but once Ellary's story came to me it wouldn't let go. As of right now, there are no delays in the publication of Bloodstones.

Sigil in Shadow is meant to be a stand alone, one shot adventure. It's a good novel to pack in your bag for a long trip or a rainy weekend. The possibility for sequels is definitely there, but it all depends on reader demand and time. There are several books scheduled before I will have to come up with any fresh ideas. That's a good thing. A writer wants to be busy. 

 Thank you all so much for your continued support. I love what I do and hope that you do too! I'll always keep you posted on progress and anything else you want to know. Just ask! 

God Bless, 
C.R.