My Obsession with Vintage Books by Women

This past weekend we went to yet another library book sale, though a smaller one. When I’m not out enjoying nature, going on weekends to library sales, thrift stores, and used bookstores is another favorite way to unwind. I usually just try to find a few things that catch my eye because my stacks are too big already – it’s the hunt for a perfect book that’s fun!

At this sale, it was a vintage book club copy of Velda Johnston’s Masquerade in Venice, and an older Mary Higgins Clark, A Cry in the Night, that I picked up because the blurbs and cover on both intrigued me. Both for $1 total!

I’ve collected older or vintage books for many years, especially gothic or suspense types from women authors, many it seems who’ve been forgotten to time. Such as with Velda Johnston – an older generation of readers might recognize the names but even those of us middle-agers don’t know the names, and either way, who really knows who these women WERE (outside of Shirley Jackson). And yet, these women published such an extensive bibliography! I had never heard of or seen a Velda Johnston book, and this weekend, I came to find out she wrote a plethora of books!

That led me to researching Johnston a bit (one night late when I couldn’t sleep) because of that reason. She was born in 1912 and died in 1997 and wrote books later in her life, but was possibly a writer of articles her whole life! It’s been hard to find more information as of yet, but I’m going to be investigating it. If anyone has any leads, be sure to send them my way. It does not appear to be a pen name, though she did have one of those also (Velda Jason). One of her books was made into a movie with Barbara Eden and Larry Hagman called, “A Howling in the Woods.” I need to find that to watch!

As for Mary Higgins Clark, we all know who this thriller author powerhouse was – and of course, she kept publishing until her recent death. But look at this cover and how she was attributed as being a master of horror circa 1982? A master of horror! They’d not put that on one of her covers today. It’s interesting to be seeing the fluid use of terms between gothic romance, suspense, thriller, horror, etc. and how they used art to invoke a certain feeling at the time – her cover in the photo reminds me of early V.C. Andrews covers. And with Johnston’s, they use suspense on the cover but inside flap sell it as gothic. My marketing mind is interested!

I’m definitely absorbed by the history in marketing of these types of books by women over the years and what it’s meshed into today. Stay tuned for more on this subject as well as about my love of vintage women writers and books. I’ll also be sharing some of my collection as well as new finds!

Dodd, Mead & Co., 1973, Book Club Edition

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Anyone else as obsessed as me?

I’m still immersed in the busy world that is publishing with editing, promoting, consulting. Hopefully, I will have some time off for holidays. I hope you all can wind down soon, too. More here as I can. Thanks for your patience!

Erin

Guest Article: Indie Horror Fundraiser and Scholarship for Women in Horror by Andrew Fowlow, The Book Dad #HookonWiHM #WiHM

I have some exciting news and a really cool announcement for my fellow women in horror! There is an exciting project, headed by horror reviewer and freelance writer Andrew Fowlow, in which you can buy some super cool women in horror merchandise all for a great cause, in order to offer a scholarship and in-kind editing and marketing gifts to help a woman in horror pursue her writing and publication efforts, and beyond that, to help spread the word about the mighty power that is indie horror!

Andrew is here at Hook of a Book to introduce himself to us and explain the fundraiser and scholarship. Those of you who know me know that after my ten years in the genre as an editor, author, PR professional, and more in the horror genre that I wouldn’t be partnering with Andrew if I didn’t believe in his energy, enthusiasm, and heart for the community as well as his skills, drive, and desire to help others. As well, of course, I believe in his professional skills he’s honing not only as a freelance writer, but someone who is learning and excelling in the ropes of marketing. Andrew writes for various publications such as Lit Reactor and HorrorDNA, among others. The horror newsletter he’s recently started for the genre is amazing and sign-up MUST for anyone (you’ll find that link below).

And finally, I am really happy to see in the last few years the amount of men who are stepping up in horror to support women in horror. When we all support and respect one another, the community flourishes.

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Now that I’ve introduced Andrew, I’ll let him have the floor…..

Indie Horror Fundraiser and Scholarship for Women in Horror
by Andrew Fowlow, The Book Dad

If you don’t know me, my name is Andrew, otherwise known as ‘The Book Dad,’ and I am a reviewer of horror fiction. It is my intent to support those in the #HorrorCommunity anyway I can while on my literary journey to reading all things terrifying and suspenseful!

As you know, it’s #WiHM (Women in Horror Month) and I wanted to do something special for our ladies of the macabre! I created a RedBubble store with a few designs for folks to show off their love for HORROR FICTION! There are stickers, to be read (tbr) cart magnets, mugs, t-shirts, you name it.

Find it all at:

thebookdad.redbubble.com

Cool, right?

So, where does the money go?

Scholarship for a Woman in Horror!!

ALL MONEY EARNED IN FEBRUARY AND MARCH WILL GO TOWARDS A FEMALE HORROR WRITER TO HELP FUND THEIR NEXT PROJECT!!

I want to help a woman in horror get their book in readers’ hands. That could mean splurging on a fancy cover, getting a Horror Writer’s Association (HWA) membership, funding an audiobook, WHATEVER THEY WANT!

In addition, FREE EDITING PACKAGE:

The lovely Erin Al-Mehairi from Hook of a Book Media has graciously offered a free developmental and copy editing of a book 100k words or less (over is negotiable) for the chosen writer (with minor guidelines such as when the editing is negotiated for would be based on her current client schedule). This is a huge savings and you will receive an edit from a known and established editor in the genre.

In addition, also, FREE MARKETING PACKAGE:

I, The Book Dad, will also offer up my time to assist with the following:

✅ Marketing Strategies

✅ Full Media Kit

✅ Press Releases

✅ Newsletter

✅ Website/Landing Page

✅ Social Media Campaigns

I invite any female horror writer to email me: Andrewfowlow@gmail.com with their details and a brief pitch telling me what they are working on. Please, don’t be shy. I WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Throughout the next two months, I will run a social media campaign to decide on a winner so keep watch. This will be a fun opportunity and I’m excited to connect with you all!

Again, if you don’t know me, that’s ok, you can find me on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and Goodreads or sign-up for my horror fiction newsletter for more content from those in the #HorrorCommunity.

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Thank you so much to Andrew for running with this idea to help a woman a horror. I’m happy to be a part of it and good luck! Get those pitches in to Andrew for consideration and watch social media for more about the giveaway.

Remember to showcase those women in horror you love each and every day!

Aaron Dries: Author, Filmmaker, Artist! Meet at Virtual Party for Release of A Place for Sinners

It’s the new wave!! Virtual parties!! For an author, it lets them reach all their friends and fans internationally!! How cool is that to be able to party across the miles??

In this upcoming case, for instance, of award winning horror author Aaron Dries who is from Australia, we all can’t pile in a car, a plane, a boat, and well….go for a two hour book signing party can we? We could, but that might get rather expensive.

So, we’ve got a fun VIRTUAL party you can drop by for on Hook of a Book Facebook page to help congratulate and celebrate Aaron’s new release from Samhain Horror, A Place for Sinners! We’ve got some books and an original piece of Aaron’s artwork to giveaway also, courtesy of Aaron. THANKS AARON!!

Here is the awesome cover, isn’t is gorgeous? Don’t be fooled, the book is SCARY and will leave breathless.

You can read more about Aaron and his new book after the party details…..

DETAILS ABOUT PARTY

The virtual party sponsored by Hook of a Book (www.facebook.com/HookofaBook) page takes place on the actual wall of the Facebook page (not on the invite wall if you have a FB invite) from 9-11 p.m. US EST or 1 p.m. Australian time. The cool thing is that we’ll be talking across two days….I’d come just to say you accomplished being in Friday and Saturday at the same time….though you’ll leave which much more, like getting to know Aaron!

Attendees are able to ask Aaron any questions they want by PRE-ASKING or asking during the party via an email submission which will then be posted by the moderator to the Hook of a Book wall. Attendees can see questions answered and be able to comment.

Aaron is a wealth of knowledge on books, TV, film, art…..you genuinely don’t want to miss this chance to pick his brain. You’ll learn a lot and get some great opinions!

HOW TO ASK QUESTIONS

Please pre-ask questions using email listed below or Erin will also take limited questions during the party which will go in a queue to be asked in order received. Email Erin at hookofabook@hotmail.com (subject: Dries question). Again, emailing a question enters you or you can email just to enter to win.

The night of the event you can also inbox message Erin Al-Mehairi on the Hook of a Book Facebook page (below) if you can’t email and it will go into the queue.

Please, NO attendees should post questions to the wall of the party just because it gets too confusing. If questions appear on the wall, Erin will put in to the queue and then re-post the question as a status. Authors won’t answer those, but will wait for them to be re-posted and then answer. However, you can post to the wall to say congratulations and authors can comment on that too.

GIVEAWAY

We’re giving away some books too! Copies of choice of his books in e-format will be up for grabs. All that ask questions will have a chance to win or you can email to enter!

For the grandprize, the award is a signed paperback copy from Australia PLUS his original black and white artwork piece he drew for A Place for Sinners. That is a HUGE prize, right??!!

ARTWORK GIVEAWAY

The giveaway of the original painting created by Aaron, which is titled “They Closed In,” can be seen at the link. It’s black and white watercolors on paper. It depicts a scene from the first chapter of the book. See all his promo art for the book at the link…

http://www.aarondries.com/apps/photos/photo?photoid=189540354

“Amity was trapped, her back flat against the cave wall. The dogs glared at her with candle-flame eyes, flickering with the potential to burn and cause pain. The dogs had claimed her as their own. Coveted her. Her blood was a sweetness they found favorable, and they were desperate for more.” – A PLACE FOR SINNERS by Aaron Dries

REFRESH YOUR BROWSER!

Please remember that refreshing your browser is very important to see all questions and answers ongoing during the event. Also remember to be patient. The moderator, Erin, is constantly working in the background and will be taking your emails, inbox messages, posting questions, and monitoring the party all at once.

You can RSVP or see more about the event here:

https://www.facebook.com/events/629992483758374/

You also have to “like” the Hook of a Book page here: www.facebook.com/HookofaBook

About Hook of Book Facebook Page

Like the Hook of a Book Facebook page at www.facebook.com/HookofaBook! We post reviews and interviews from this site there, but it also gives us the opportunity to talk books with you more, feature upcoming covers and releases, post free or discounted books, discuss literature, and showcase books we have on list to review.

Oh, for the Hook of a Book! Blog is an extension of Hook of a Book Services of Addison’s Compass Public Relations. We do book publicity, editing, proofreading, developmental consulting, media relations, press releases, and more.

A PLACE FOR SINNERS, SYNOPSIS

Sometimes, survival is a sin.

Amity Collins has been deaf since she was seven. That was the day the wild dogs attacked, fighting for her bones. The day her father died. This trip to Thailand is exactly what Amity and her brother, Caleb, need—freedom… As their boat slits through saltwater, Amity, Caleb and the other passengers are having the time of their lives. They watch the island emerge on the horizon. Its trees twitch, as though impatient or hungry. Within its shadows, secrets best kept hidden will be unearthed. Sacrifices will be made. Terror will reach out to grasp Amity, as real and frightening as what’s lurking in the dark.

AARON DRIES, BIOGRAPHY

In 1984, Wes Craven unleashed Freddy Krueger on the world. That year also saw lonely children riding Luck Dragons in “The Neverending Story”. And somewhere between these two pop culture events, there was the (relatively) unnoticed birth of a ginger-haired child. Aaron Dries.

Raised in a small New South Wales town in Australia, the former video store clerk, pizza delivery boy, retail specialist, aged-care nurse, document scanner, video editor, commissioned artist and amateur filmmaker always had a strong interest in creating stories. Were it hand-drawn X-Files comic books or home-made movies starring himself and his family (the best of which had Aaron running over a friend with a lawnmower, followed closely by a remake of “Scream” starring his brother as Drew Barrymore), there was always something in the works.

Aaron graduated from the University of Newcastle with a Bachelor of Communication under his wing, majoring in creative writing and video production. As a filmmaker, he won a number of awards for his short films at home and abroad, including Best Film at the Newcastle Film Festival for “Placebo,” coinciding with the publication of his earliest stories in literary magazines.

His first novel, HOUSE OF SIGHS was originally written under the title “Disunity” for the Leisure Books / Rue Morgue/ Chizine Publications FRESH BLOOD Contest. The premise of the novel stemmed back to a local murder that took place in Aaron’s adolescence. A mother on his pizza delivery route shot and murdered her husband and children before turning the gun upon herself. As was the case with everyone who read about the incident, Aaron’s mind churned with questions of morality. Why do bad things happen to good people? What is the origin of evil? What makes apparently sane people do insane acts? These questions would become the genesis for HOUSE OF SIGHS some years later.

When he is not writing, Aaron Dries is thinking about writing, or upcoming film projects. He is also an avid traveler. The first draft of his debut was written over a three month period on a borrowed semi-functional laptop whilst living in overseas hostels.

People often ask Aaron, “Why horror? Why aim to terrify and disturb people?”

To this he has very little justification. “I guess I write horror because it pays better than jumping out from behind doors and scaring people- although I’ve got no plans to stop doing this either.” Aaron’s second book was the highly-acclaimed THE FALLEN BOYS, which was voted as one of the Best Horror Novels of 2013 by Fearnet.com, alongside works by Stephen King and Joe Hill. Also available is AND THE NIGHT GROWLED BACK, a disturbing novella set in the Icelandic wilderness. His third novel is A PLACE FOR SINNERS, which is garnering glowing praise.

Drop Aaron a line at www.aarondries.com. He won’t bite. Much.

BOOK TRAILERS

Here is the link to his Youtube channel, which is where all of his book trailers and multimedia are kept. AND THEY ARE AWESOME!!!
http://www.youtube.com/user/aarondriesdisunity/videos

BUY LINKS

Samhain store Aaron Dries purchase link: http://store.samhainpublishing.com/aaron-dries-pa-1699.html

Get on discount in e-book and paperback for limited time!

Amazon author page with purchase links: http://www.amazon.com/Aaron-Dries/e/B008GXNU64

Denise K. Rago’s Vampire Romance Sequel Hits the Shelves & Virtual Party!!

Planning on spending Friday night at home?  Maybe a glass of wine, a snack, some relaxation?  Hopping on Facebook to post your favorite book, cartoon, and chatting with friends in between watching a cool show or settling down for the evening?

Well, we’ve got some fun VIRTUAL plans for you, a virtual party you can drop by for at any time during the event to help congratulate and celebrate paranormal romance author Denise K. Rago’s newest release, Blood Tears (the sequel to Immortal Obsession). We’ve got some books to giveaway also that you can enter to win, courtesy of Denise!  Let us tell you about the book series first, then you can check up on all the details about the party and read more about Denise below.  If you are interested in buying her books, those links are below too.

Immortal Obsession, First Book in the Series~

As a young man in eighteenth century France, Christian Du Mauré impulsively follows his best friend into the complex and warring world of the Parisian vampires. Against the backdrop of the French Revolution and following an affair with a mortal aristocrat, he promises to watch over her daughter – only to learn the child is his.

Now settled in Manhattan, only two descendents of his union remain, Amanda and her brother, Ryan. After Amanda witnesses a savage murder in Central Park, she is determined to find the ethereal stranger who saved her life. When their worlds inevitably collide, Christian finds he cannot prevent Amanda from becoming a pawn in a centuries-old struggle for power. As a confrontation between ancient enemies comes to a head, Christian must face a betrayal from his past that still haunts him and threatens the woman he loves.

Blood Tears, sequel, NOW OUT!!

Amanda knew she had to track down Christian after he so gallantly saved her from his fellow vampire Gaétan. Having done so, she is now his mortal lover and will not leave his side. But that is exactly what she’ll have to do when Christian decides to return to Paris. He informs her of his plans and leaves the vampire Michel, his most trusted comrade, behind to watch after her in Manhattan.

What she doesn’t yet know is she’s carrying a child, and that the father is either Gaétan or Christian. Christian finds Paris rife with secrets, rich secrets including past love affairs that have the power to destroy his life. These secrets had been safely hidden—until now.

While Christian is in Paris, word of Amanda’s pregnancy gets out, and she is hunted by a vampire order that believes her child could be the one foretold by a prophecy. Can Christian discover the answers he needs in time to save Amanda?

As enticing as her first book, Blood Tears is Denise K. Rago’s latest novel in her ongoing chronicle of the vampire Christian Du Mauré.

DETAILS ABOUT PARTY:

The virtual party of Denise K. Rago, hosted on the Hook of a Book (www.facebook.com/HookofaBook) Facebook page takes place on the actual wall of the Facebook page (not on the invite wall if you have a FB invite).

Attendees are able to ask Denise any questions they want by PRE-ASKING or asking during the party via an email submission which will then be posted by the moderator to the Hook of a Book wall. Attendees can see questions answered and be able to comment.

HOW TO ASK QUESTIONS:

Please pre-ask questions using email listed below or Erin will also take limited questions during the party which will go in a queue to be asked in order received. Email Erin at to hookofabook@hotmail.com (subject: Denise question). E-mailing a question enters you for the giveaway if you also like her Facebook page. Again, to enter e-mail a question and like her Facebook page. When you e-mail be sure to say which prize you want to enter. There will be a list of giveaways at the event to choose from.

The night of the event you can also inbox message Erin Al-Mehairi on the Hook of a Book Facebook page (below) if you can’t email and it will go into the queue.

Please, NO attendees should post questions to the wall of the party just because it gets too confusing. If questions appear on the wall, Erin will put in to the queue and then re-post the question as a status. Authors won’t answer those, but will wait for them to be re-posted and then answer. However, you can post to the wall to say congratulations and authors can comment on that too.

GIVEAWAYS!!

#1) 1 set of signed Immortal Obsession, #2) 2 ebooks (one per winner their choice of either title), and then #3) a grand prize of a $25 Amazon card plus choice of book!!!!!

Please state your choice of package if you have a preference or ask for your name to be put in all three.  All that ask questions and like Denise’s Facebook page will have a chance to win! Or just hang out and have conversation in the comments.

REFRESH YOUR BROWSER!

Please remember that refreshing your browser is very important to see all questions and answers ongoing during the event. Also remember to be patient. The moderator, Erin, is constantly working in the background and will be taking your emails, inbox messages, posting questions, and monitoring the party all at once.

RSVP LINK TO PARTY~

You can RSVP or see more about the event here:

www.facebook.com/events/581392068620149/

You also have to “like” the Hook of a Book page here: www.facebook.com/HookofaBook

Denise Rago, Biography~

A chance encounter with a mysterious man during a date-night in Manhattan changed my life forever. This paranormal experience inspired me to write Immortal Obsession, in which I created vampire Christian Du Mauré. His story continues in the sequel, Blood Tears.

I am an avid reader, who carries a passion for art museums, the French Revolution, and all things vampire. My life-long dream has been to publish books and nothing makes me happier than to have readers wanting more stories.My credentials include a bachelor’s degree in anthropology and a master’s degree in museum professions. I combine all these passions in these novels. I live in New Jersey with my husband surrounded by my large Italian family.

Purchase Links~

Blood Tears

AMAZON (Paperback and e-book)

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_0_26?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=blood+tears+denise+k.+rago&sprefix=Blood+Tears+Denise+K.+Rago%2Cstripbooks%2C154&rh=n%3A283155%2Ck%3Ablood+tears+denise+k.+rago

BARNES AND NOBLE (paperback and e-book)

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/Blood-Tears-Denise-K-Rago?store=allproducts&keyword=Blood+Tears+Denise+K.+Rago

Denise’s website:  http://denisekrago.com/

Immortal Obsession, Book 1

Denise’s website:  http://denisekrago.com/

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About Hook of Book Facebook Page~

Like the Hook of a Book Facebook page at www.facebook.com/HookofaBook! We post reviews and interviews from this site there, but it also gives us the opportunity to talk books with you more, feature upcoming covers and releases, post free or discounted books, discuss literature, and showcase books we have on list to review. We’ll talk about the book, publishing and writing industry. We’ll probably also talk grammar tips and ask lots of questions, as well as post interesting historical articles, art, photos, and other things we find intriguing.

Oh, for the Hook of a Book! Blog is an extension of Hook of a Book Services of Addison’s Compass Public Relations. We do consulting, book publicity, line editing, proofreading, developmental editing, media relations, press releases and more, like these parties for authors!! Ask about our services today!

Like Chilling Horror? Cheer for Giveaways? Virtual Book Launch Party for David Bernstein and Adam Cesare!

You’re most likely strolling through Facebook in the evening right? Posting your favorite book, cartoon, and chatting with friends in between watching a cool show or settling down for the evening? We’ve got a fun VIRTUAL party you can drop by for as well to help congratulate and celebrate horror authors David Bernstein and Adam Cesare’s newest releases! We’ve got some books to giveaway also so be sure to enter to win, courtesy of David and Adam!

DETAILS ABOUT PARTY:

The virtual party sponsored by Hook of a Book (www.facebook.com/HookofaBook) page takes place on the actual wall of the Facebook page (not on the invite wall if you have a FB invite) from 9 to 11 p.m. EST, on Thursday, Jan 16, 2014.

Attendees are able to ask David or Adam any questions they want by PRE-ASKING or asking during the party via an email submission which will then be posted by the moderator to the Hook of a Book wall. E-mail to me at hookofabook@hotmail.com.  Attendees can see questions answered and be able to comment. These two authors are fun and interesting so you won’t want to miss the action.

HOW TO ASK QUESTIONS:

Again, please pre-ask questions using email listed below or Erin will also take limited questions during the party which will go in a queue to be asked in order received. Email Erin at to hookofabook@hotmail.com (subject: Dave or Adam question).  Emailing a question enters you or you can email just to enter to win.

The night of the event you can also inbox message Erin Al-Mehairi on the Hook of a Book Facebook page (below) if you can’t email and it will go into the queue.

Please, NO attendees should post questions to the wall of the party just because it gets too confusing. If questions appear on the wall, Erin will put in to the queue and then re-post the question as a status. Authors won’t answer those, but will wait for them to be re-posted and then answer. However, you can post to the wall to say congratulations and authors can comment on that too.

We’re giving away 10 books, one print copy of Amongst the Dead from David and The Summer Job from Adam and four e-books from each, your choice of their titles! All that ask questions will have a chance to win or you can email to enter! Or just hang out and have conversation in the comments.

REFRESH YOUR BROWSER!

Please remember that refreshing your browser is very important to see all questions and answers ongoing during the event. Also remember to be patient. The moderator, me (Erin), is constantly working in the background and will be taking your emails, inbox messages, posting questions, and monitoring the party all at once.

You can RSVP or see more about the event here:

https://www.facebook.com/events/629267487136823/

You also have to “like” the Hook of a Book page here: www.facebook.com/HookofaBook

About Hook of Book Facebook Page~

Like the Hook of a Book Facebook page at www.facebook.com/HookofaBook! We post reviews and interviews from this site there, but it also gives us the opportunity to talk books with you more, feature upcoming covers and releases, post free or discounted books, discuss literature, and showcase books we have on list to review. We’ll talk about the book, publishing and writing industry. We’ll probably also talk grammar tips and ask lots of questions, as well as post interesting historical articles, art, photos, and other things we find intriguing.

Oh, for the Hook of a Book! Blog is an extension of Hook of a Book Services of Addison’s Compass Public Relations. We do book publicity, editing, proofreading, draft consulting, media relations, press releases and more.

If you are interested in your own Facebook Launch Party at Hook of a Book, please e-mail!

ABOUT David and Adam~

David Bernstein, Biography

David Bernstein is a dark fiction/horror writer who lives in NYC, but is originally from upstate NY and loves the countryside. His novels and novellas include The Tree Man, Damaged Souls, Amongst the Dead, Tears of No Return, Machines of the Dead, and the Bizarro title Fecal Terror.

He writes like a madman and this year (2104) has books coming from the Samhain Horror line—Witch Island and Apartment 7C, and from DarkFuse, the titles Relic of Death and Surrogate, and from SeveredPress, the third installment of the Machines of the Dead trilogy. He loves hearing from his readers, so drop him a review, send him an email, or contact him on Facebook.

You can check out his blog and information at http://davidbernsteinauthor.blogspot.com/

The Tree Man, Synopsis—

Can two kids alone stop a monstrous evil?

Women and children have been mysteriously disappearing from Evan’s town. And now Evan may know why. He was climbing a tree in the woods when he saw a decrepit old man toss a helpless woman into the mouth of a hideous tree-like creature.

Evan knows he can’t stop the man and the creature by himself, but he also knows no one will believe a kid with such a wild story. Only his best friend, Peter, can help him confront this terrifying evil. But if they aren’t careful, they will soon be missing too.

Samhain Purchase:

http://store.samhainpublishing.com/The-Tree-Man-p-73164.html

Amazon Purchase:

http://www.amazon.com/The-Tree-Man-David-Bernstein-ebook/dp/B00H54X8IK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1389674777&sr=8-1&keywords=the+tree+man

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Adam Cesare, Biography~

Adam Cesare is a New Yorker who lives in Philadelphia. He studied English and film at Boston University.

His books include Video Night, The Summer Job and Tribesmen. His nonfiction has appeared in Paracinema, Fangoria, The LA Review of Books and other venues.

You can check him out at: http://adamcesare.wordpress.com/

The Summer Job, Synopsis—

Welcome to Mission, Massachusetts. Praying won’t save you, but it couldn’t hurt.

Claire is an alternative girl looking for an alternative. Her post-college prospects have fizzled and she’s looking for a new job, a new town, a whole new life. A summer position at a remote hotel may be just what she needs.

Very soon, though, she begins to suspect the hotel may have decidedly sinister motives. At the same time she falls back into her old wild ways with the young people of the town, a radical group totally at odds with the sinister leaders of a local cult. Caught between two worlds, Claire has to plot her escape while spiraling deeper into a nightmare of ritual sacrifice and killer parties.

Samhain Purchase:

http://store.samhainpublishing.com/the-summer-job-p-73163.html

Amazon Purchase:

http://www.amazon.com/The-Summer-Job-Adam-Cesare/dp/1619218127

You can also order books from the info detailed in the notes section on the Facebook page during or anytime after the party (30% off at Samhain link there for a limited time) or enter the giveaways.

Tick to the Tock is Inspiring, Poignant, Modern, and Emotional Fiction

A month ago, I had the delightful honor of assisting British author Matthew Turner with the process of his novel, Tick to the Tock! I assisted him by editing it and as I read, fell in love with the whole theme of the book. Matthew is an amazing writer and an even better “brand” king in the realm of inspiring reading for the modern adult. I had previously enjoyed his first novel, Beyond Parallel, in which he examined “what ifs” and now in Tick to the Tock, I enjoyed how he once again makes the reader THINK about the choices they make or could make to live life to the fullest.

You can enjoy some great  promotions he has going on surrounding the book release, which is TODAY, January 8, 2014, by clicking on the link below. You can win free copies, but it’s also just .99 cents in e-book through midnight January 10, 2014.

Why not read this book? I promise it will inspire you to rethink how you’ll live in 2014 and get your started off on better ground. It will teach you not to sweat the small stuff, but go after your bucket list dreams.

See promotions and purchase book here:  http://turndogmillionaire.com/tick-to-the-tock/

Here is my feedback I gave to Matthew upon my editing complete, which I’ve added further thoughts to so you can have a clear review. I know you’ll love this book if you like modern stories, inspiring stories, and amazing way that British writers give us such character driven emotional reads that we all can connect to.

My Thoughts~

Matthew,

Tick to the Tock was amazing. The description, detail and character development was superb. I thought it was one I wouldn’t want to read…and I knew why. I had a feeling the protagonist was terminally ill.  When I read it I knew then.  The cancer. What I didn’t expect was to be sucked into his emotions, his thoughts, his desire to live each moment to the best of his ability. Or the emotions of the supporting characters.

You had me in tears this whole damn book!! At the end I was sobbing.  I mean it was just that darn emotional and touched me. I had just put on that huge charity event for Cancer and so it really knocked me even harder after seeing people who are going through it and then reading this. You must have first hand knowledge of it, it was that close to the vest and authentic. So I edited the novel for you, yes, but you got me to read it when I wouldn’t have otherwise and I am thankful for that. I’ve tried to live my life in the moment, but we all get caught up in the little things don’t we? And your book, it spoke to me.

I know you don’t want to be described as a British author, because they can be for anyone. But British authors DO have a voice and a way of dealing with emotions on the page as American writers most often won’t. They are afraid of emotions. And some of you Brits (Yorks in your case) have such highly character driven works, when Americans sometimes prefer action and “get to the point,” but I love your work because it makes you slow down and think!! We all need more of that, globally and locally. A heart isn’t one to not wear on your sleeve because in the end, moments and feelings are all that really matter.

More Thoughts~

I found out after I wrote Matthew my feedback and handed in my editing changes that he actually doesn’t have first-hard knowledge of anyone being terminally ill. I found it surprising he could write with such depth of feeling from both the main character and from the supporting caregivers. He not only researched, but he was a channel to the innermost feelings of those struggling with illness. That is the sign of a great writer, when they can write about anything and make it feel authentic and beautiful. Tick to the Tock truly made me realize that life is too short to worry about all the little concerns that don’t matter in the large workings of our lives. For many personal reasons, this book connected to me and touched my heart and I will forever treasure it.

Tick to the Tock, Synopsis~

What would you do if you had 3 months to live? That’s what Dante King faces, the indecisive 22 year-old who must finally learn to embrace life and love.

TICK to the TOCK is a Contemporary New Adult Novel about Dante coming-of-age during turbulent times. A story inspired by love, but with the gritty realities of regret, missed opportunity, and understanding life’s meaning under dire circumstance. But a single mind isn’t affected on this journey, as an eclectic group comes to terms with the past, present, and what lies ahead.

Dante must confront and accept his fate, but can he let go of Danii: his lost love and kindred dreamer? With his rationally stubborn cousin, and eccentric best friend, Dante witnesses a life of dream and wonder: embarking across Europe, tackling Tibet, travelling Australia, and defeating each lifelong wish one-by-one.

Follow this coming-of-age roller coaster as four lives change forever. We’re only given one, but it’s never too late to understand faith, discover acceptance, and uncover the true meaning of love and happiness. Dante will die, but not before Danii, Ethan, Wilbur and he undertake an intense and heartfelt journey.

Smile… Cry… Ask yourself what you would do with three months left… Because Love & Living Begins Now

Genres: New Adult, Coming of Age, Contemporary Romance, Literary Fiction
Word Count: 80,000
Pages: 200
Launch date: January 08 2014
Publisher: Turndog Publishing

Matthew Turner, Biography~

Hi, my name is Matthew Turner, and I’m an English Writer who loves to Read, Wander & Drink Fine Coffee. TICK to the TOCK is my second novel: a Coming-of-Age New Adult Tale that follows Dante King during the final months of his life.

This may seem rather dreary, but as a serial wanderer of life’s mysterious questions, I like to consider what makes me, me. For instance, my first novel (Beyond Parallel) focussed on the notion of what if. TICK to the TOCK doesn’t obsess over the what, rather the Who and Why.

When I’m not writing Fiction, I tackle the world of Storytelling through Non-Fiction, Videos & Creative Projects. I Blog about this on TurndogMillionaire.com, and share my journey on Facebook. I hope you will come say hello, so a conversation can be had. I do enjoy conversing.

CONTACT: matt@turndogmillionaire.com /  Facebook

Details for You to Attend a Virtual Book Celebration for Brian Moreland and Kristopher Rufty

You’re most likely strolling through Facebook in the evening right? Posting your favorite book, cartoon, and chatting with friends in between watching a cool show or settling down for the evening? We’ve got a fun VIRTUAL party you can drop by for as well to help congratulate and celebrate horror authors Brian Moreland and Kristopher Rufty’s newest releases! We’ve got some prize packs you can enter to win, courtesy of Samhain Horror and the two authors.

DETAILS ABOUT PARTY:

The virtual party sponsored by Hook of a Book (www.facebook.com/HookofaBook) page takes place on the actual wall of the Facebook page (not on the invite wall if you have a FB invite) from 9 to 11 p.m. EST, on Tuesday, Aug. 6.  Attendees are able to ask Brian Moreland and Kristopher Rufty any questions they want by PRE-ASKING or asking during the party via an email submission which will then be posted by the moderator to the Hook of a Book wall. Attendees can see questions answered and be able to comment.  These two authors are so personable and interesting so you won’t want to miss the action.

ABOUT THE BOOKS

Brian Moreland has released a short story prequel called The Girl from the Blood Coven that you can download FREE now! Click Here for Kindle/Kindle App download:  http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CI3WCEO.  The novella is called The Witching House, also in e-book, and is available to read Tuesday:  http://www.amazon.com/kindle-store/dp/B00CJ96E78.

Kristopher Rufty’s Oak Hollow is a full-length novel that will also be available to read in e-format or paperback on Tuesday, click here for Kindle/Kindle app download:  http://www.amazon.com/Oak-Hollow-ebook/dp/B00B4QJK82

You can also order books from the info detailed in the notes section on the Facebook page during or anytime after the party (30% off at Samhain link there for a limited time) or enter the giveaways. We’re giving away several prize packages that include book copies! All that ask questions will have a chance to win or you can email to enter! Those who ask questions get extra entry points! Or just hang out and have conversation in the comments.

HOW TO ASK QUESTIONS:

Please pre-ask questions using email listed below or Erin will also take limited questions during the party which will go in a queue to be asked in order received.  Email Erin at to hookofabook@hotmail.com (subject: Brian or Kristopher question). Again, emailing a question enters you or you can email just to enter to win.

The night of the event you can also inbox message Erin Al-Mehairi on the Hook of a Book Facebook page (below) if you can’t email and it will go into the queue.

Please, NO attendees should post questions to the wall of the party just because it gets too confusing. If questions appear on the wall, Erin will put in to the queue and then re-post the question as a status. Authors won’t answer those, but will wait for them to be re-posted and then answer. However, you can post to the wall to say congratulations and authors can comment on that too.

REFRESH YOUR BROWSER!

Please remember that refreshing your browser is very important to see all questions and answers ongoing during the event. Also remember to be patient. The moderator, Erin, is constantly working in the background and will be taking your emails, inbox messages, posting questions, and monitoring the party all at once.

You can RSVP or see more about the event here:

https://www.facebook.com/HookofaBook?ref=hl#!/events/211105749048244/

You also have to “like” the Hook of a Book page here: www.facebook.com/HookofaBook

About Hook of Book Facebook Page~

Like the Hook of a Book Facebook page at www.facebook.com/HookofaBook!  We post reviews and interviews from this site there, but it also gives us the opportunity to talk books with you more, feature upcoming covers and releases, post free or discounted books, discuss literature, and showcase books we have on list to review. We’ll talk about the book, publishing and writing industry.  We’ll probably also talk grammar tips and ask lots of questions, as well as post interesting historical articles, art, photos, and other things we find intriguing.

Authors Brian Moreland and Kristopher Rufty~

You can view some recent guest posts by Brian Moreland on Hook of a Book HERE (click on HERE), Also HERE, and HERE, complete with The Girl from the Blood Coven review, book(s) information and biography. Review of The Witching House to appear on Tuesday, Aug. 6.

See my review of Kristopher Rufty’s Oak Hollow by clicking HERE, complete with book information and biography.

Seduction by M.J. Rose Delves into Secret Haunting Life of Victor Hugo: Must Read!

Pick up your copy of M.J. Rose’s Seduction and be held captive for the weekend!! Rose will pull you in and leave you breathless, depositing you on what feels like a parallel planet of existence.  Seduction’s surreal prose gives you a much-needed escape from reality.

Rose expertly flows between the 1800s world of author Victor Hugo, and his obsession with the spiritual world, to the present day when Jac L’Etoile (her adventurous and inquisitive protagonist) returns for another novel in hopes to uncover more clues and answers about ancient mystery.

Seduction is another novel in Rose’s Reincarnationist series (#5), but in my opinion you can read Seduction stand-alone without completely missing anything even though Jac has been featured previously. I haven’t even read the other books, but I most certainly will go back now and dive into Rose’s other novels.  Her writing style isn’t stuffy or even smooth, but it is earthy, absorbing, and her story lines flow without hesitation from one thought in time to the next. She writes with impulse and feeling–the sign of a great storyteller.

Rose’s details and descriptions are vibrant, sensual, and haunting without over embellishing. Her vivid scenes and lush character development immerse the reader into a plethora of sensory activity, as well as formulating a sphere of spirituality that encourages thoughts and deals with the deepest emotions of love and loss. The mystery, suspense and science of historical and mythological research kept me flipping the pages.

I loved her choice of using Victor Hugo and his addiction to seances; the mystery of him speaking to the “Shadow” which becomes a battle for him. The horrors that are uncovered by him, and in the present by Jac, are so real and creeped around me, giving me shivers up my spine.

I can’t rave enough about Seduction by M.J. Rose! It’s definitely one you’ll not want to miss and will go on my list of favorite novels of 2013. See for yourself why it’s getting rave reviews–you’ll be totally engrossed in her artistry as a writer and her spellbinding storytelling.

 Seduction, Synopsis~

Publication Date: May 7, 2013
Atria Books
Hardcover; 384p
ISBN-10: 1451621507

SYNOPSIS: From the author of The Book of Lost Fragrances comes a haunting novel about a grieving woman who discovers the lost journal of novelist Victor Hugo, awakening a mystery that spans centuries.

In 1843, novelist Victor Hugo’s beloved nineteen-year-old daughter drowned. Ten years later, Hugo began participating in hundreds of séances to reestablish contact with her. In the process, he claimed to have communed with the likes of Plato, Galileo, Shakespeare, Dante, Jesus—and even the Devil himself. Hugo’s transcriptions of these conversations have all been published. Or so it was believed.

Recovering from her own losses, mythologist Jac L’Etoile arrives on the Isle of Jersey—where Hugo conducted the séances—hoping to uncover a secret about the island’s Celtic roots. But the man who’s invited her there, a troubled soul named Theo Gaspard, has hopes she’ll help him discover something quite different—Hugo’s lost conversations with someone called the Shadow of the Sepulcher.

What follows is an intricately plotted and atmospheric tale of suspense with a spellbinding ghost story at its heart, by one of America’s most gifted and imaginative novelists.

Author M.J. Rose, Biography~

M.J. Rose is the international best-selling author of eleven novels and two non-fiction books on marketing. Her fiction and non-fiction has appeared in many magazines and reviews including Oprah Magazine. She has been featured in the New York Times, Newsweek, Time, USA Today and on the Today Show, and NPR radio. Rose graduated from Syracuse University, spent the ’80s in advertising, has a commercial in the Museum of Modern Art in NYC and since 2005 has run the first marketing company for authors – Authorbuzz.com. The television series PAST LIFE, was based on Rose’s novels in the Renincarnationist series. She is one of the founding board members of International Thriller Writers and runs the blog- Buzz, Balls & Hype. She is also the co-founder of Peroozal.com and BookTrib.com.

Rose lives in CT with her husband the musician and composer, Doug Scofield, and their very spoiled and often photographed dog, Winka.

For more information on M.J. Rose and her novels, please visit her WEBSITE. You can also find her on Facebook and Twitter.

See my INTERVIEW with M. J. Rose by clicking on INTERVIEW WITH M.J. ROSE!

Link to Tour Schedule with more guest posts, interviews, and reviews: http://hfvirtualbooktours.com/seductionvirtualtour/
Twitter Hashtag: #SeductionVirtualTour