Easter's Lilly

Tuesday, May 14, 2013


‘Becoming Mona Lisa,’ by Holden Robinson is a true piece of art

What is the title of your latest release and what is it about?
'Becoming Mona Lisa,' follows the journey of Mona Lisa Siggs.  Mona has barely spoken to her husband in five years; she looks like a train wreck, and is basically dying of monotony.  Mona gets a makeover, books a romantic getaway, and recommits to her landfill of a marriage.  Cue the mayhem.  What happens next is reserved only for the most ridiculously hilarious, romantic comedies.
What inspired you to write this book? Do you have a muse?
I was inspired by my best friend's experience, being surrounded by black birds.  I set out to combine a hilarious story line with a poignant message, and if early reviews are any indication, it seems to have worked.

Tell us a little about yourself. Is there any truth to any of your novels?
My first novel, which remains unpublished, is the agonizing story of a mother who loses her young son.  I created the storyline to help myself heal from the loss of my father.  I knew if I could guide my protagonist through unimaginable grief, I would be better equipped to cope with my own loss.

Sometimes the best works come from pain and heartbreak. What is your favorite genre and who are your favorite authors?
I love a good romance, crime novel, or comedy.  I adore James Patterson, Patricia Cornwell and Janet Evanovich.

Sounds like some pretty great authors there. Are you working on another project right now? Tell us about it.
 I have several projects in the works.  My favorite project at present is a poignant story of animal rescue titled, ‘And Her Name Shall be Beloved.’

Just for fun, tell us some non-related book “stuff.” What do you like to do when you’re not writing? Any favorite hobbies?
I am a drama queen. I adore the moments I spend on stage with my fellow thespians, and it is there, on the stage, where I have met some of the finest people with whom I share my life.  I am also an avid animal lover and activist, and my ultimate dream is to reach enough readers to fund a rescue for senior cats, which I plan to call Tenth Life Sanctuary.

Your heart is certainly as big as your stories. What a wonderful plan. Tell our readers where we can find more information on you and your books
Readers can visit my website at www.holdenrobinsonproductions.com and find my books online at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Black Rose Writing.


Thursday, April 18, 2013


Lucky Dog Books book benefit, “It Takes a Book,” and sometimes a village

Dallas, Texas has so much to offer. Besides the beautiful landscapes, skyscrapers, restaurants, clubs and museums to enjoy, we also have the best people in the world. Dallas is known for its warm welcome, kind smiles, and southern style. But that’s not all Dallas is known for. Offering out its hands to those who are in need is something of which Dallas should be widely proud.
Well-known authors, Jenny Milchman, Earl Staggs and Shalanna Collins will be at Lucky Dog Books April 28, from 1:00 p.m. until 3 p.m. to benefit a fellow author and his family in their time of need. Medical bills have become overwhelming, and this group of writers say that sometimes, it takes a village. They are opening up their hearts as Lucky Dog Books opens up its doors to the community for this very special event. Lucky Dog Books is located at 10801 Garland Road, Dallas, Texas, 75218. The number for more information is (214) 827- 4860. This opportunity offers, food, fun and great conversation with these fantastic authors. Don’t forget to check out all the fabulous books that will available for you to enjoy. Your hard earned dollars will be going to a very good cause. So, don’t miss out and remember, sometimes it takes a village.

© 2013 Microsoft Corporation© 2012 Nokia
Lucky Dog Books
32.845145 ; -96.688323
Jenny Milchman author of ‘Cover of Snow.’
Earl Staggs author of ‘Memory of a Murder,’ and ‘Justified Action.’
Shalanna Collins author of ‘Nice Work,’ and ‘Murder by the Marfa Lights.’

Sunday, April 14, 2013


‘Thoughtless’ by S.C. Stephens will leave you breathless

Book description:
Kiera’s first and only love, Denny, gets a job in a new city, far away from Keira’s home. Being that they are totally devoted to each other and have been for the past 2 years, she follows him out there, where they move in with Denny’s long-time friend, Kellan Kyle. Kellan is a local rock star with a well-known reputation as a womanizer.
Kiera finds herself a job in the bar where Kellan works and all seems like it is going smoothly until the unforeseeable happens. Denny is temporarily moved to a job in Tucson, leaving Kiera by herself, alone with Kellan Kyle. At first their friendship is innocent and heartening, but when Denny calls Keira with the news that he won’t be coming back, she finds herself looking for comfort in Kellan’s arms. Denny returns to make things right but is it too late for them? What will this do to Kellan?
My review:
'Thoughtless' is certainly a page-turner. Because I am also an author, I can’t really complain about the attractiveness of the main character’s personality. It reminded me of my own series, as the heroine simply could not make up her mind between the two heroes. It was painful to read as she hurt them both over and over again with what appeared to be very little remorse. Kellan broke my heart. Coming from a place of complete and utter detachment, he opened up to her in ways that frightened even himself.
Although the outcome was certainly predictable, the anticipation to reach the conclusion was overwhelming. I took the book with me everywhere I went, unable to put it down and stop reading. The chemistry between the characters was very well written. I could see the whole book playing inside my head like a movie. I gave this book 5 out of 5 stars and have already started reading book two of the series, 'Effortless.' This is actually a trilogy but I didn’t buy all three just yet. I loved 'Crash' by Nichole Williams, but didn’t love the second book, 'Clash.' So, I will be taking it one book at a time this time. I will let you know how I rated it in May.

Thursday, April 4, 2013

'Gravitational Pull' by Marissa Carmel, will cerainly pull you in her direction

Marissa Carmel has been kind enough to meet with us and tell us about her latest novel, ‘Gravitational Pull,’ which was just released today.
Tell us the title of your book and a brief description of what the book is about.'Gravitational Pull' is the sequel to 'iFeel.' It is about an empathy, (someone who can feel the emotions of others), Liv, who discovers her new powers, and finds out about her ancient bloodline. In the meantime, while all of this is going on, she is dealing with the newlove in her life, an angel named Justice. It’s a new adult paranormal series, so the themes are more mature than young adult, but there is still intense emotion, suspense and humor.
That sounds exciting. Is this your debut novel or do you have previous works? I have one previous work; it is book one in the ‘Vis Vires Trilogy,' called ‘iFeel.’
What are you working on now? Presently, I’m working on a spin off novella of the 'Vis Vires Trilogy' from Justice’s point of view. It will give more of a back-story to the seraphs.
Do you have any writing rituals? I only have a few writing rituals to speak of. Coffee, music and cracking my knuckles.
Do you have a muse? Is there someone special who inspires your craft? I think I have a lot of muses. The people in my life are so rich in character that it’s easy to draw inspiration from them. My editor also inspires me. He’s where the novella idea came from.
How does the social media influence your writing? Is it a hindrance or a blessing? Both. Sometimes I can’t pull myself away from networking or promoting, but on the flip side I meet so many wonderful people. I guess it depends on the day.
Are you a plotter or a pantser? How long does it take you to write a book? I think a little bit of both. I try to write a synopsis before I start the official work. I write an outline also, but I allow for changes. I think the combination makes for the most interesting plot twists.
Sounds to me like you are more of a planner. I wish I could plan, even a little. Personally, I am a pantser. My characters do all the planning for me. What is the hardest part about the writing process for you? The hardest part about the writing process for me is editing and time management. I prefer the creative side of my craft.
Yes, editing can take up quite a bit of a writer’s time. Thanks so much for telling my readers about your new release. Please tell us where they can find more information on you and your books. All my links are here. My Pinterest page is my favorite. I love visuals.
Links:
Find me here!



Wednesday, March 20, 2013


Tell us the title of your book and a brief description of what the book is about.
My book is titled, 'Other Than Honorable.' It is a crime novel set in 1983 in Philadelphia. It has equal parts of murder, mafia and romance. Here’s the synopsis:
It's 1983 and the Russian mob is seeking to expand by securing the cooperation of the ambitious Mayor of Philadelphia, Michael Collins, a decorated Vietnam Vet and rising political star. When Collins hosts a meeting of the National Democratic Committee (DNC), the Russians see an opportunity.
Everything changes when a young woman is found dead in a crime-infested section of Camden, NJ. Solving the murder requires the cooperation of three estranged friends: Mayor Collins, an FBI Agent, and another Vietnam Vet with a tarnished military record. The FBI enjoins the Philadelphia and Camden Police to solve the murder amidst a violent turf war between the Russian and Italian mafias.
That sounds very intriguing. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
I was born and raised in the hardscrabble Kensington and Lehigh section of Philadelphia, where several scenes from the movie, “Rocky,” were shot. Later, my family moved to the northeast section of the city. I went to two local universities: St. Joseph’s where I earned a BA English and Villanova where I earned my Master’s in political science.
Very few people know that I was a conscientious objector to The Vietnam War and served as a field medic there with the 34th Engineers from 1970 – 1971. I retired in 2009 after 40 years of service in various management and executive positions in the U.S. government. For 25 years, I was also an adjunct instructor at the Haub School of Business at St. Joseph’s.
Nowadays, I chase my wife and five rescue cats around the house and play softball often if not well. I have two children and four granddaughters.
Sounds like you live an exciting life. What are you working on now?
I just finished a draft of a second crime novel, ‘Death Boards.’ This book is also set in modern day Philadelphia. It is a serial killer genre but with a major twist or two.
Last month, I wrote two children's books for my two youngest granddaughters, who will be 6 and 8 shortly. They asked me to write books for them as birthday presents when they saw me give a draft copy of ‘Death Boards’ to their father to read. Little do they know he hasn't read ‘Other Than Honorable’ yet.
Have you patterned your writing after any other authors and do you have any writing rituals?
I don’t pattern my writing after any other writers, nor do I have any writing rituals. Many experts say an author should write at least a page a day or block out the same time spot every day. I don't do any of that. I write when I feel like it.
Every writer is unique in how they put a story together. Do you have a muse? Is there someone special who inspires your craft?
If I had to pick someone, it would Jonathan Swift. I liked him from the first time I read him. Political satire of all kinds is my favorite.
My love of the detective and murder mystery genre comes from my Mom and her Mom.
How does the social media influence your writing? Is it a hindrance or a blessing?
Social media has had no impact on my writing. Other than having a nondescript Facebook page, I don't participate in any social media outlets.
I think you are of the minority when you say that. Social media is quite the coo these days when it comes to getting the word out. Are you a plotter or a pantser? How long does it take you to write a book?
I am clearly the latter. ‘Other Than Honorable’ took five years to write. ‘Death Boards’ took me a little over two years. I don’t have anything to do with an outline. I never have.
I am the same way. My characters take me where they want to go, not the other way around. What is the hardest part about the writing process for you?
Thinking of a story that is truly unique or that has potential to tell an established plot line in a new direction. I also write with a view on whether the book has potential to be translated into a movie or cable mini-series.
If I can't land an idea in my head that can do that, I don't write.
Please tell my readers where they can find more information on you and your book.
The best way to contact me is via Email: pard1.mccann@gmail.com.
‘Other Than Honorable’ is available on amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com. Also, any independent bookstore can order a copy for interested readers.
I plan to put "Death Boards' on amazon.com in the Kindle Select Program next month.

Thursday, February 21, 2013

"Crash" by Nichole Williams will leave you rubbernecking


Book description:

'Crash' is about Lucy Larson, a young dancer, who moves to a new town and meets the community bad-boy, Jude Ryder. They are both in the same high school and find it impossible to stay away from each other. Jude’s got a rap sheet a mile long, while Lucy plans to go to Julliard after graduation. Their continued attraction to each other leaves both of them unsure of the future as they try to fight the inevitable connection.
My review:

Nicole Williams does a beautiful job of making the attraction between the two protagonists alluring and dangerous. Putting this book down will not be easy. Just when you think you know how the book will end, you are thrown a curve. I loved this book.

That being said, and it is clear that I am not alone when I look at the other reviews; this book has certain similarities to 'Beautiful Disaster' by Jamie McGuire. Of course, ‘Beautiful Disaster’ takes place in a college setting and ‘Crash’ takes place in a high school setting, but the protagonists are very similar. I even found it amusing that the best friend of the lead female character in ‘Beautiful Disaster’ has the name, America, while the roommate of Lucy Larson is named India. I loved ‘Beautiful Disaster,” so of course I loved this one too. I have already downloaded 'Clash,' which is book two of the series. There is one part of this book, and I won’t give too much away, that was simply ridiculous and not accurate. I see in the other reviews that others have mentioned it, so I will say that it has to do with football. This scene would never happen in real life. But the book is an excellent read, lots of fun and most addicting. I give it five out of five stars.

Tuesday, February 5, 2013


Interview with Author Jean Brown

Today I have the pleasure of interviewing author, Jean Brown. Her latest release is called Rending Skies published by Black Rose Writing.

Thank you so much, Jean, for visiting with us today. Tell us a little something about your latest release and what it is about?


'Rending Skies,' book 2 in the ‘Faulkner’s Curse Series,' is about a selfish and harsh man who finds out he’s dying and has a guilty conscious. He also discovers he has a gift to heal with his touch.
Wow, that sounds amazing. What inspired you to write this book? Do you have a muse? My inspiration was built upon 'Black Days,' which is book 1 in the series. I witnessed someone I love in his final days in anguish from guilt.
 
Tell us a little about yourself. Is there any truth to any of your novels?

No, not really. I suppose Ruby, the German Shepard, is less fictional than the human characters.
What is your favorite genre and who are your favorite authors?
I love so many genres all the way from romance to horror. Stephen King, Dean Koontz, Nora Roberts, Nicholas Sparks and Karen Slaughter. The list of Indie authors is too long to mention.
Are you working on another project right now? Tell us about it.
Yes, I’m working on the third book in the series.
Just for fun, tell us some non-related book “stuff.” What do you like to do when you’re not writing? Any favorite hobbies?
I’m an animal advocate so I spend as much time helping animals as I can. I love to read, I garden and hang out at the lake.
What is your favorite food? Favorite places to eat?
I love Italian food so any authentic Italian restaurant will do as long as it offers meatless entrées.
Tell our readers where we can find more information on you and your books.