Blog Tour/Feature Post and Book Review: The Last Sister by Kendra Elliot

#TheLastSister, #KendraElliot, #LastSisterBlogTour, @AuthorKendraElliot (Facebook), @KendraElliot (Twitter), @Kendraelliot (IG) @Kendra_Elliot (GoodReads), @AmazonPublishing (Facebook), @AmazonPub (Twitter), and @AmazonPubishing (IG).

***

Hi, everyone!

I am very excited to be on the Blog Tour for the first book in Kendra Elliot’s new romantic suspense series – Columbia River. THE LAST SISTER (Columbia River Book #1) had me glued to the page from start to finish.

Below you will find a book blurb, my book review and the author’s bio and social media links. This is a new romantic suspense series, but there are a few characters you may recognize from Ms. Elliot’s Callahan & McLane series. Enjoy!

***

Book Blurb

Twenty years ago, Emily Mills’ father was murdered, and she found his body hanging in the backyard. Her younger sister, Madison, claims she was asleep in her room. Her older sister, Tara, claims she was out with friends. The tragedy drove their mother to suicide and Tara to leave town forever. The killer was caught. The case closed.


Ever since, Emily and Madison have tried to forget what happened that night – until an eerily similar murder brings it all back. It also brings FBI special agent Zander Wells to the Oregon logging town. As eager as he is to solve the brutal double slaying, he is just as intrigued with the mystery of Emily’s and her sisters’ past.


When more blood is shed, Zander suspects there’s a secret buried in this town that no one wants unearthed. Is it something Emily and Madison don’t know? Or aren’t telling? And Tara? Maybe Emily can’t bear to find her. Because when Tara disappeared, she took a secret of her own with her.

***

THE LAST SISTER
By Kendra Elliot
Montlake; January 14, 2020
(Mystery | 336 pp. | Hardcover: $24.99, ISBN#: 978-1542006729; Kindle: $5.99,
ASIN#: B07SLZ9LMN; Paperback: $12.95, ISBN#: 978-1542006705)

“Elliot skillfully unravels layers of intersecting stories, each one integral to the overall story of the Mills family and their small-town secrets. Readers will want to see more from this author.” – Publisher’s Weekly


“Part budding romance, part compelling backstory, part prescient tale of racism: provocative on all fronts” – Kirkus Reviews

***

My Book Review

RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars

THE LAST SISTER (Columbia River Book #1) by Kendra Elliot is the first book in a new romantic suspense/FBI mystery series. This book is easily read as a standalone, but a few of the characters are carry overs from Ms. Elliot’s Callahan & McLane series.

Twenty years ago, a family was shattered when the father was found hanging from a tree and their home burned to the ground. The mother committed suicide a week later, the eldest daughter disappeared and that left two small girls with secrets that they would hide for years.

Present day. FBI Special Agents Zander Wells and Ava Callahan are sent to investigate a double murder in a small Oregon coastal town that is eerily similar to a twenty-year-old crime that was supposedly solved. The tip came from Emily Mills who found the slain couple and was one of the sisters who survived the old crime. Zander is determined to solve this double homicide, but he is also intrigued by the old case and Emily.

As Zander and Ava investigate, the killer threatens Emily and her relatives and then strikes again to hide his crimes past and present. Secrets long buried need to be revealed for the past and present cases to be solved before someone else is killed.

I was completely engrossed in all the plot threads in this suspense. Past and present, multigenerational secrets. I like that Ms. Elliot shows the insidious, not in-your-face racism that can infect and destroy multi-generations and towns. Zander and Emily each deserve to find happiness and I feel they were perfect for each other. There is no sex in this story and Zander and Emily are very attracted to each other, but Zander waits until the case is solved.

I highly recommend this book and I cannot wait for more book in this series. There is intriguing investigation, secrets revealed, and the start of a romance that had me turning the pages continually from beginning to “The End”.

***

Author Biography

Kendra Elliot has landed on the Wall Street Journal bestseller list multiple times and is the award-winning author of the Bone Secrets and Callahan & McLane series, as well as the Mercy Kilpatrick novels: A Merciful Death, A Merciful Truth, and A Merciful Secret. Kendra is a three-time winner of the Daphne du Maurier Award, an International Thriller Writers finalist, and an RT Award finalist. She has always been a voracious reader, cutting her teeth on classic female heroines such as Nancy Drew, Trixie Belden, and Laura Ingalls. She was born, raised, and still lives in the rainy Pacific Northwest with her husband and three daughters, but she looks forward to the day she can live in flip-flops. Visit her at www.kendraelliot.com.

Social Media Links

Website: https://www.kendraelliot.com 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorKendraElliot 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/KendraElliot

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6150778.Kendra_Elliot

Blog Tour/Feature Post and Audiobook Review: Outrush by Errin Stevens

Hi, everyone!

It is time for my third and final stop on the Blog Tour for another book in The Mer Chronicles. OUTRUSH (The Mer Chronicles Book #3) by Errin Stevens. This book features Maya and Aiden’s second chance for love.

Below you will find a book synopsis, my book review, author and narrator info and a giveaway. Enjoy and as always good luck on the giveaway.

***

About Audiobook #3

Author: Errin Stevens

Narrator: Sean Posvistak

Length: 11 hours and 16 minutes

Publisher: Errin Stevens⎮2019

Genre: Romantic Fantasy

Series: The Mer Chronicles, Book 3

Release date: Jul. 17, 2019

***

Book Synopsis:

“Falling, falling…. Maya was airborne again, suspended between a landless platform above and an inscrutable expanse of water below.” Maya’s headlong rush into marriage isn’t working out…and it isn’t the only collision course she’s on these days. Her saltwater distractions aside, her father-in-law wants her gunned down for reasons unknown, and her pesky bodyguard – when he’s around – seems intent on drowning her in want and regret.

Maya is desperate to hold onto any small part of herself she understands. When escape becomes her only option, she finds herself in a race against a past – and a man – she can’t outrun.

Buy Links for Audiobook #3Buy on AmazonAudible

***

My Book Review:

RATING: 4 out of 5 Stars

OUTRUSH (The Mer Chronicles Book #3) by Errin Stevens is the third paranormal/urban fantasy story in the world of the Sirens of Griffin Bay though this addition to the series takes the listener/reader all over the US. The story picks up seven years after the events of Breakwater and focuses on the second chance romance of Maya and Aiden.

Maya has tried for years to make her marriage to her college sweetheart work, but when she catches him having sex with another at a party at her in-laws, she finally accepts there is no fixing their broken marriage. As she works through the revelation, her father-in-law catches her in his office. He believes she has seen incriminating papers and to save himself he orders her followed and killed if she goes to authorities.

Aiden may not be married to Maya, but he feels bonded and therefore goes against all efforts of the Siren community to keep them apart. Using his powers to cloak, he stays on the periphery of Maya life and marriage. When he learns of the danger she is in, he helps her get away, but their troubles are just beginning.

I have to say that I was once again drawn into the Siren world of Ms. Stevens and enjoyed all the characters. I was happy when Maya stood on her principles and strength to continue with her medical education and practice, even with all the chaos around her. She is a strong independent female character, which is why I had some difficulty listening to the first part of the book. It is a lot of internal struggle over several chapters that if she was so strong should have been more limited and resolved sooner in my opinion. I also love Aiden and his devotion to Maya, but the mind manipulation bothered me in some instances. Even with these two complaints, I still cheered their romance on. I was glad to see Ms. Stevens added the proof of Maya and Stu’s divorce before Maya and Aiden came together, also.

There are several subplots going on in this story that I am looking forward to listening/reading about in future books in this series. Once again there is plenty of romance, action, adventure and intrigue in The Mer Chronicles that keeps me coming back for more.

***

About the Author: Errin Stevens

Errin Stevens writes paranormal romantic suspense stories from her home in Minnesota. When not wrestling with unruly narrative – or reading literary and commercial fiction like a fiend – you’ll find her poring over seed catalogues (winter) or gardening (the other three days of the year).TwitterFacebookGoodreadsInstagramPinterest

About the Narrator: Sean Posvistak

Sean is an aspiring game developer who’s used his years of work on Youtube to excel at audiobook narration.

***

Giveaway: 6-month Audible Subscription

Runs Jan. 12th-Feb. 1st⎮Open internationally
Embed the following code or use this link: https://gleam.io/kEDqL/the-mer-chronicles-giveaway-6month-audible-subscription



Blog Tour/Feature Post and Audiobook Review: Secrets & Lies by Andrew Cunningham

Hi, everyone!

Today is my turn on the Audiobook Blog Tour for Andrew Cunningham’s new mystery SECRETS & LIES (“Lies” Mystery Series Book #4). I am very excited about sharing my Feature Post and Audiobook Review.

Below you will find a narrator Q&A, a synopsis of the book, my book review, the author’s bio, social media links and the narrator’s bio along with a giveaway at the end of the post. Good luck on the giveaway and enjoy!

***

Narrator Q&A

1. When did you know you wanted to be an audiobook narrator?

In 2014 I was looking down the road toward retirement from my federal government job.  I knew I wanted to do something with voice over, but I didn’t want to go to an office. I read the book, “More Than Just A Voice: The REAL Secret to Voiceover Success” by Dave Courvoisier.  The chapter on audiobooks was very intriguing. I did some research and auditioned in late 2014. I was ecstatic that I was selected quickly. It’s been a great adventure and learning experience ever since that fateful day.


2. Did you find it difficult to “break into” audiobook narration? What skill/tool helped you the most when getting started?

I was a radio news reporter in my first career.  Being in front of a microphone was my comfort zone.  I was very glad that I got my first audiobook a few days after my audition.  It helped a lot that I worked with digital audio in 1987 when it was first introduced at ABC Radio News.  Those skills have worked in my favor as an independent narrator not working with a publisher. Plus, I was an audio engineer when I was a student at Syracuse University working with analog audio.

3. A lot of narrators seem to have a background in theatre. Is that something you think is essential to a successful narration career?

I believe it’s necessary to know a little about acting because that’s what narrating mysteries and thrillers is all about.  Through my first reviews, I learned that listeners want distinct character voices so that they know who’s speaking. They don’t want to keep rewinding to keep up with character dialogue.  I’ve studied acting and taken acting classes in order to make the dialogue sound like a movie soundtrack

4. Are you an audiobook listener? What about the audiobook format appeals to you? 

I listen to hundreds of hours of audiobooks each year.  My favorites are biographies narrated by the author. There’s nothing like hearing someone’s story as told by them.  I also love mysteries and thrillers. I also am very picky about narrators.

5. What are your favorite and least favorite parts of narrating an audiobook?

I enjoy the whole process from narrating, editing and processing the audio for final production.  Since I edit my own narrations, it’s my goal to make certain the audio is the best quality to give the listener a terrific experience.  The only frustrating part of narrating is when I get a cold. That shuts down the whole process behind the microphone. That’s when I go into editing mode.

6. What would you say are your strongest narration abilities?

Over the past five years, I’ve made it a point to come up with distinct character voices.  I don’t want them to sound over the top. I want them to sound like every day people and believable.  Some voices come naturally from the author’s words, and others take a little time to get the right cadence and inflection.

7. What about this title compelled you to audition as narrator?

I have narrated six books by Andrew Cunningham.  I haven’t auditioned for a book since 2015. Andrew and I have a great collaboration.  I call him my director because he’ll let me know if I’ve gotten a character’s voice the way he envisioned it when he wrote the story.  There are about four more books that Andrew wants me to narrate. This latest series allows me continue voicing the two main characters, Del and Sabrina, that I now consider my alter egos.

8. How closely do you prefer to work with authors?

I enjoy authors that listen closely to my narration and provide feedback.  I’ve been fortunate to work with Andrew Cunningham on several books because he provides valuable input that makes my narration all the more real sounding.  I get great satisfaction when an author says I’ve brought their book to life.

9. What bits of advice would you give to aspiring audiobook narrators?

I advise aspiring audiobook narrators to do their research.  Narrating an audiobook is time consuming. When starting out, it takes about three hours to narrate and produce a finished hour of an audiobook.  With time and experience, you can cut that down but not by much. You have to be prepared mentally and vocally for the long haul. It takes even longer if you edit and produce your own narrations.  

Bonus question: Any funny anecdotes from inside the recording studio?

There are some words and long sentences that sometimes pose a challenge.  I’ll get half way through a long sentence and then blow the next part or run out of breath.  It’s amazing how some words come out that are not on the page. When I hear the playback, I’ll have a laugh.  Take two, please!

***

Book Synopsis

Horrific plane crash, murderous deception, and a deadly chase in the alligator-infested Florida Everglades! 

On the afternoon of May 11, 1996, ValuJet 592 plunged into the Florida Everglades. There were no survivors. But something came through the crash unscathed: a small box with huge implications for humankind. And the one man unlucky enough to discover its whereabouts disappeared without a trace. 

Now, 20 years later, the mystery of Flight 592 hits close to home for Del Honeycutt and best-selling mystery author Sabrina Spencer. A shocking revelation launches them into the middle of a dark conspiracy, and locating the box becomes a matter of life or death. They are not alone in the hunt for the mysterious package and very quickly learn that others will stop at nothing to find it, eliminating anyone who stands in their way. 

With killers hot on their trail, Del and Sabrina must navigate dangers lurking both above and below the swamp waters of the Everglades in order to find the box…and to survive.

About the Audiobook

Author: Andrew Cunningham

Narrator: Greg Hernandez

Length: 5 hours 46 minutes

Publisher: Andrew Cunningham⎮2019

Genre: Mystery/Thriller

Series: Lies Mystery Thriller Series, Book 4Release date: Nov. 15, 2019

Buy Link Buy on Audible

***

My Book Review

RATING: 4 out of 5 Stars

SECRETS & LIES (“Lies” Mystery Thriller Series Book #4) by Andrew Cunningham is another entertaining mystery/thriller addition to the series. This is the fourth book in the series and the first of the books I have listened to in audiobook format. The mystery plot is a standalone, but I believe you will enjoy these books more by reading them in order.

This book starts with a BANG, literally. Seymour shoots intruders that are sneaking into his apartment.

The story then goes back twenty years in time to when Seymour was called Jack and an airboat driver for a tourist company in the Florida Everglades. Jack/Seymour was enjoying some solitude when ValuJet 592 plunged into the Everglades killing all on board and changing his life forever.

Back to present day and Del Honeycutt, best-selling mystery author Sabrina Spencer and Del’s other tenant Mo, are all shocked to learn the truth about Jack/Seymour, Mo and how his past is coming back to haunt him.

The four friends return to the Everglades together to find a box Jack/Seymour buried twenty years ago and in the process they are on the run from rogue government agents, mobsters, a crooked billionaire and alligators. Are samples from the fabled “Fountain of Youth” really in that long-buried box and will the friends be able to live long enough to find out?

This is such a fun mystery/thriller. The four main characters are unique and entertaining in their own way quirky ways. All the characters, good and bad were able to take the story from fun, dry humor to serious in a heartbeat. To find out Jack/Seymour’s secrets really changed my perception of him from previous books. The mystery plot is full of twists and turns that kept me guessing.

This fourth book, same as the previous book in the series are fun, entertaining reads. Mr. Hernandez does a great job of narrating this book. Because I read the first books, some of the character narration does not match how I envisioned some of the characters to sound in speech. It did not detract from my enjoyment of the audible book though.

I recommend this unique series of books and characters, but as stated previously, I do believe they should be read or listened to in order.

***

Author Bio and Social Media Links: Andrew Cunningham

I’m the author of novels in several genres, including, mystery, thriller, and post-apocalyptic science fiction. Under the name A.R. Cunningham, I’ve also written the Arthur MacArthur series of mysteries for children.

I was born in England, but have spent most of my life living in the U.S.—including 25 years on Cape Cod before moving to Florida. A former interpreter for the deaf and long-time independent bookseller, I’ve been a full-time freelance writer and copy editor for many years. A 4th-degree Master Black belt in Tang Soo Do, I finally retired from active training when my body said, “Enough already! Why are you doing this to yourself?” I’m married, with two grown children and two awesome grandsons. My wife and I spend as much time traveling as we can, and are especially fond of cruising the Caribbean.

​I have been gratified by the response to my books. When I published Eden Rising back in the spring of 2013, I had no idea what to expect. When I sold my first few copies, I was excited beyond belief that someone was willing to take a chance on it. Numerous books and thousands of copies later, I am still humbled by the emails I get from readers telling me that my books kept them up late into the night.

In October of 2014, Wisdom Spring made me an official Amazon Bestselling author, a thrill I never thought would happen. But it still comes down to being able to bring a few hours of escape to a reader. That’s what it’s all about for me.

I hope you will try my books. Please feel free to email me with your comments.

WebsiteTwitterFacebookGoodreadsAmazon

Narrator Info: Greg Hernandez

Author-preferred Narrator of Mysteries & Thrillers

Narrating audiobooks is highly gratifying.  I immerse myself into an author’s story in order to bring it to life for the listener.  I’ve enjoyed working with Andrew Cunningham for several years. His books are filled with rich characters, and the stories keep me turning the pages.

I also work as a background actor in movies and TV shows.

For more than 20 years, I worked as a radio news reporter and news writer.  I spent half of my broadcasting career at ABC News Radio in the Washington, D.C., bureau.  I covered all the federal agencies as well as Congress and the White House. I reported on a wide range of stories during my career, including financial and entertainment industry news.

For nearly 24 years, I worked as a federal government spokesman at three separate agencies—National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), U.S. Mint and Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC).

Twitter

***

Giveaway: $25 Amazon Gift Card

Runs Jan. 26th-Feb. 2nd⎮Open internationally

Embed the following code or use this link: https://gleam.io/rP1io/secrets-lies-giveaway-25-amazon-gift-card


Blog Tour/Feature Post and Audiobook Review: Breakwater by Errin Stevens

Hi, everyone!

Back again for my second stop on the Blog Tour for another book in The Mer Chronicles. BREAKWATER (The Mer Chronicles Book #2) by Errin Stevens. This series just keeps pulling me in deeper and deeper with great worldbuilding and storytelling!

Below you will find a book synopsis, my book review, author and narrator info and a giveaway. Good luck and enjoy!

***

About Audiobook #2

Author: Errin Stevens

Narrator: Sean Posvistak

Length: 8 hours and 37 minutes

Publisher: Errin Stevens⎮2017

Genre: Romantic Fantasy

Series: The Mer Chronicles, Book 2

Release date: Jul. 17, 2017

***

Book Synopsis:

The sirens of Griffins Bay are in trouble, and the recent slew of royal suicides looks to be the least of their worries.

For one, unless a blood relative of the queen shows up, no one’s around to staff the monarchy. Well, except for a whack-job bureaucrat and he seriously won’t do. Worse is the community unrest threatening siren society, a problem caused by too many humans in the pool, which means Simon and his off-limit girlfriend will have to run and hide if they want to make more of their flirtation…

The solution doesn’t inspire confidence at first, but the Blakes have everything at hand to set their world to rights – namely, a hidden queen, a dead prince, and a facility for human manipulation. Once they find their sea legs, they’ll restore order, distribute smart phones, and drive that conniving bureaucrat to a grisly, satisfying end.

Buy Links for Audiobook #2Buy on AmazonAudible

***

My Book Review:

RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars

BREAKWATER (The Mer Chronicles Book #2) by Errin Stevens takes the reader back into the enchanting world of the Sirens of Griffin Bay. This second book in the series continues immediately after book #1 events in this paranormal world and once again contains a human/Siren romance subplot. These books are best read/listened to in order.

The Siren world is still in upheaval with the absence of an heir to rule their society. The viceroy, Duncan Fleming has been running the government until final decisions can be made, but power can be addictive and even in the Siren world it can corrupt. When a surprise heir is revealed, the viceroy is forced out and plots his revenge.

As the Blakes deal with Siren royalty, a group of rebellious male Sirens return from building an outpost in Antarctica. The brothers, Simon and Aiden are staying with the Blakes and Simon has an instant attraction to Sylvia. Simon refuses to listen to the older Sirens and steals Sylvia off to Antarctica to mate with her without Siren society involvement. Aiden is not so lucky in his choice of mate.

Once again I was carried away into the world of the Sirens. I find all the characters to be dynamic and fully fleshed out. The focus in this book is on Siren society and the continued intrusion and interactions with humans, but the romance between Simon and Sylvia intertwines throughout seamlessly. Ms. Stevens worldbuilding and storytelling skills make me believe in the Sirens and I did not want the story to end. This is a great series for all ages to share. There is some talk of sex, but it is not explicit. The focus is on Siren society, human/siren interaction, family bonds and love.

The more I listen to The Mer Chronicles, the more I want it to never end. Ms. Stevens has brought a wonderful world to life. Mr. Posvistak’s narration is crisp, clear and added to my enjoyment of the story.

I highly recommend this paranormal series and I am looking forward to listening to book #3.

***

About the Author: Errin Stevens

Errin Stevens writes paranormal romantic suspense stories from her home in Minnesota. When not wrestling with unruly narrative – or reading literary and commercial fiction like a fiend – you’ll find her poring over seed catalogues (winter) or gardening (the other three days of the year).TwitterFacebookGoodreadsInstagramPinterest

About the Narrator: Sean Posvistak

Sean is an aspiring game developer who’s used his years of work on Youtube to excel at audiobook narration.

***

Giveaway: 6-month Audible Subscription

Runs Jan. 12th-Feb. 1st⎮Open internationally
https://gleam.io/kEDqL/the-mer-chronicles-giveaway-6month-audible-subscription


Book Tour/Feature Post and Book Review: The Water’s Fine by Janice Coy


Hi, everyone!

Today is my turn on the Virtual Author Book Tour for THE WATER’S FINE by Janice Coy. This is an intriguing read that is a women’s fiction story with a suspense sub-plot.

Below you will find a book description, an author Q&A, my book review, the author’s bio and social media links and a giveaway. Good luck and enjoy!

***

Book Description

Catalina Rodrigues believes she’s living her best life, traveling to exotic locations around the world as a scuba dive master, spending every moment possible in her beloved ocean.

Bertie Clark is excited for a week-long scuba trip with her husband exploring the underwater wonders of an ocean teeming with life – the Sea of Cortez.

But a tragedy on their dive boat sends both women into uncharted territory, questioning what they’ve always thought to be true, and fostering an unlikely friendship. Will either trust the invitation to “come on in, the water’s fine” again?

Water’s Fine: Suspense Novel by Janice Coy

Publisher:  Independently Published (April 22, 2019)
Category: Suspense, Family Fiction, Women’s Fiction
Tour dates: January/February, 2020
ISBN: 9781795669047
Available in Print and ebook, 312 pages

***

Author Q&A with Avonna Loves Genres

What is your favorite scene in “The Water’s Fine?” why?

I have many favorite scenes in “The Water’s Fine,” and I hope readers will agree. One is when Catalina and the rest of the boat crew welcome the newest guests on board the Calypso for a week-long scuba dive trip. Catalina believes it will be just another group of strangers to shepherd on dives for a week, and then back to the port where the people will depart never to be seen again. All she cares about is being assigned the more experienced divers this time around. She doesn’t know that before the week is out her life will be changed forever.

How long did it take you to complete “The Water’s Fine”?

Including research, the novel took me about two years to complete. When I’m done with the first draft, I like to set my novel aside for a while so I can come back to it with fresh eyes. By the time I’m ready to publish, I’ve written about seven to eight drafts, and gotten feedback from several first readers. Even then, I must take a deep breath and let it go. Someone said once that a novel is like a painting, even when the art is done, the artist or writer can always find something to fix.

Where did you get the inspiration for your cover?

One of my favorite things to do as a scuba diver is to look back up to the water’s surface. If the water’s clear, it’s amazing to see how deep the sun’s rays can penetrate through the layers. Twilight is especially beautiful when the water is like liquid gold above, and already getting shadowy below. The cover of “The Water’s Fine” is from the perspective of a scuba diver looking back up at the surface. The bubbles are the expended air the diver has used; the bubbles closer to the surface are open.

What draws you to this genre?

I read a lot of Fairy Tales and Nancy Drew when I was growing up. I loved the suspense of wondering what was going to happen next. Would Nancy solve the crime? Would the princess live up to her bargain to sleep with the toad on her pillow? Alfred Hitchcock once said a mystery is for the intellect while suspense is about emotion. Typically, in a mystery, the crime happens immediately, and a detective sets about solving it. In suspense, the protagonist only gradually becomes aware of the danger, much like a frog in a slowly heating pot.  I have a lot of fun putting my characters in unexpected situations and discovering what they will do next.

What writers have you drawn inspiration from? Are there other inspirations you draw from?

As an avid reader, I enjoy reading books by authors who are great storytellers and writers like Sue Monk Kidd, Amor Towles, Anthony Doerr and Larry McMurtry. They all inspire me to become a better writer as do Liane Moriarty, Kate Morton and Kristin Hannah. I also am inspired by adventures I’ve had, the stories people tell me, and the choices people make. While writing “The Water’s Fine,” I relied on my own week-long stay on a scuba dive boat on the Sea of Cortez.

What book/s are you reading at present?

I just finished “A Gentleman in Moscow”; I’m starting “The Lilac Girls” and am waiting on “What Alice Forgot.”

Are you currently working on another book?

Yes! I’m in the very rough draft stages of my sixth novel. I don’t outline, so I use the rough draft as a general outline. I didn’t know if I would have a sixth story to tell, but one day a hazy vision of the story evolved in my head. Tony Morrison said, “I always know the ending; that’s where I start.” I have a beginning and an ending. It’s how my characters will get from A to Z that’s challenging!

***

My Book Review

RATING: 4 out of 5 Stars

THE WATER’S FINE: A NOVEL by Janice Coy is an intriguing women’s fiction story with a suspense sub-plot. This is a standalone book which takes you on a journey into the love and perils of scuba diving, friendship, family and suspense.

Catalina took off immediately after graduating college to work as a scuba dive master. She was going to travel the world for one year, but she is now on her sixth. She is currently on The Calypso and getting ready for a new group of vacationers for a week-long trip. She is very pleased because her group of six are all experienced divers.

Alberta “Bertie” and her husband Matt are looking forward to this new experience of diving in cold water. Previously they have only gone on warm water dives. Bertie is very outgoing and friendly, but she also comes off as being a know-it-all because she always researches and prepares for everything.

Catalina and Bertie hit it off. Neither has many friends and they find they enjoy each other’s company. When a tragedy strikes that ends the trip, the two are determined to keep in touch even long distance. Catalina returns to San Diego to get her Masters degree and Bertie and Matt return to their jobs in Michigan.

Bertie and Matt decide to move to San Diego. Catalina is very happy they are on their way because strange and dangerous things have been happening to her. Is it a just stress and/or coincidence, or is someone really trying to hurt Catalina?

I enjoyed this fiction novel even though it does not neatly fit into any one genre. Catalina and Bertie are both strong women going through different life decisions in this story, but they also click as friends. Ms. Coy gives a complete description of scuba diving including all the beauty and danger involved that paints a picture and is not an information dump. The family members of both women are fully fleshed and realistic. The tragedy in the first part of the story ties into the suspense in the last third of the book. It is easily figured out and I was not completely sure if I liked the addition of this sub-plot, but I kept turning the pages.

Ms. Coy has written an entertaining novel and it is worth the read.

***

Author Bio and Social Media Links

Award winning Janice Coy is the author of five suspense novels. Her work is also published in four anthologies. She was a finalist at the San Diego Book Awards Association annual contest. She’s received the IndieReader Seal of Approval. A former journalist, Ms. Coy has received several awards for her reporting including a national award for best feature story in a community newspaper.

Ms. Coy is an advanced certified scuba diver; she’s run five half-marathons and summited Mt. Kilimanjaro. She lives in Southern California with her husband.

Website: http://janicecoy.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Janice-Coy-182435188445057/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janicecoyauthor/

Buy Water’s Fine: Suspense Novel by Janice Coy

Amazon
IndieBound

Praise Water’s Fine: Suspense Novel by Janice Coy

“I just finished The Water’s Fine by Janice Coy which means I am must bid farewell to the characters I have become attached to and I must close the cover on a plot that kept a firm grasp on my attention and continued to surprise. The act of reading this book can cause laundry to pile up, dust to gather and dirty dishes to dry crusty because one cannot stop reading from chapter to chapter – – from scuba action, to mystery, heartache, friendship, suspense and self discovery.
The author is artfully descriptive in all areas of scene and character development which draws you in and holds you! In fact, I would like to invite you to do a little scuba diving and not get wet? Slip on those fins, adjust your mask, get your regulator set and start reading The Water’s Fine.”- Kjans, Amazon

“Oh wow, what a well written book! Being someone who thinks that scuba diving is too scary to try I was drawn in by the author’s imagery. It captured all the anxiety of “breathing underwater”, the suspense of what dangerous creatures you could encounter as well as the absolute beauty and serenity you could feel while exploring the deep blue sea. I fell in love with her characters and was sucked into the mystery and suspense and enjoyed joining them on their journeys of self discovery, life and loss. I really enjoyed this book.”-Amazon Customer

Praise Smallest of Waves by Janice Coy

“Thanks to Coy’s descriptive, immersive world, the waves of Agave Beach leave a distinct impact in The Smallest of Waves. – Indie Reader

“A seaside mystery with an appealing heroine…Coy uses her beachside setting well, contrasting Agave Beach’s innocent sand castles and clueless tourists with the mysterious ocean – so foreign with its dark depths, sharks, kelp forests, and sea caves.” Kirkus Reviews

2017 Finalist San Diego Book Awards Association

***

Giveaway

This giveaway is for the winner’s choice of one print or ebook copy of the book. Print is open to Canada and the U.S. only and ebook is available worldwide. There will be 3 winners. This giveaway ends February 27, 2020, midnight pacific time.

<a class=”rcptr” href=“http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/e23ee71d1331/” rel=”nofollow” data-raflid=”e23ee71d1331″ data-theme=”classic” data-template=”” id=”rcwidget_tde3zxza”>a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src=“https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js”></script>

Blog Tour/Feature Post and Audiobook Review: Updrift by Errin Stevens

Hi, everyone!

I am very excited to share my Feature Post and Audiobook Review on the first of my three stops for The Mer Chronicles Blog Tour. Today I am featuring UPDRIFT (The Mer Chronicles Book #1) by Errin Stevens.

Below you will find a book synopsis, my audiobook review, an author interview Q&A, author and narrator info and a giveaway. This is the start of an enchanting new paranormal series. Enjoy!

***

About Audiobook #1

Author: Errin Stevens

Narrator: Sean Posvistak

Length: 8 hours and 37 minutes

Publisher: Errin Stevens⎮2017

Genre: Romantic Fantasy

Series: The Mer Chronicles, Book 1

Release date: Apr. 20, 2017

***

Book Synopsis:

For Kate Sweeting, love isn’t in the air. It’s in the water.

Since her father died, Kate Sweeting’s home life has been in the pits, her well-being on life support. Her future looks desolate until she and her mother, Cara, make another plan: abandon their shriveled existence for more promising prospects on the coast, where Cara can play small-town librarian-bachelorette and Kate can figure out what’s up with that secretive Blake family from the beach.

Everyone is eerily captivated with Kate and her mother, and Cara is the first to figure out why when the man of her dreams arrives all dripping and devoted and closed-mouthed about what he intends. Kate is willing to go along with their subterfuge for a while, but eventually makes a charge for the water to learn what her mother is hiding. Gabe Blake is there waiting for her…and so is someone considerably less friendly. By the time Kate navigates her way home, everything will have changed for her—what she feels, what she wants, and what she’ll risk to be with the man she loves.

Buy Links for Audiobook #1Buy on AmazonAudible

***

My Book Review:

RATING: 4 out of 5 Stars

UPDRIFT (The Mer Chronicles Book #1) by Errin Stevens is the first book in a new enchanting paranormal romance series featuring Sirens. Ms. Stevens’ worldbuilding introduces us to Sirens that interact and live along-side humans, but only a very few know of their existence.

The beginning of this story introduces Cara and Kate Sweeting. Cara lost her husband in an accident while Kate was still very young. She decides to accept a job as the town librarian and moves them to a small community on the North Carolina coast to start over.

While on a boat tour while only five years old, Kate sees a young boy her age swimming in the sea who calls out for her to join him. She goes over the side of the boat. While she swims with her new friend, Gabe all the adults are frantically searching for her. They find Kate and Gabe on the beach with Gabe’s family safe and sound. This begins a life-long interaction and attraction between the two.

The second part of the story has Kate and Gabe coming together as young adults and all of Kate’s questions about Gabe and his family’s differences are answered. Kate and Gabe are planning to be together forever and just as it seems all is right in their world, another Siren wants Kate for himself. Will Gabe be able to find and rescue Kate before she is lost to him?

This is my first audiobook review and this story was very well suited to this media. It is a story that has a lot of worldbuilding to bring the Sirens and their world to life, while entwining it around the human characters and Kate and Gabe’s life stories. Then it seamlessly flows into a paranormal romance plot that had me just as engrossed. All the characters were fully fleshed out and believable to the fantasy.

Ms. Stevens’ story pulled me effortlessly into her Mer Chronicles world and I am looking forward to listening to Book #2. I also enjoyed Mr. Posvistak’s narration.

I recommend this new paranormal world!

***

Author Interview Q&A:

1.Tell us about the process of turning your book into an audiobook.

Well, I went to the ACX web site and did a LOT of internet research while I considered how to best approach my projects. I decided I don’t much like how often we all get asked to create on the if-come, so even though it was expensive for me, I carved out a section of Updrift for use as a script and put the project up as a paid gig through the ACX production system. I got such wonderful responses from some truly talented narrators and was so agitated about choosing the right one. I co-opted the opinion of a longtime friend and actress to listen with me to help me figure it out! She told me to go with the one that pulled the “right” emotional response as I felt it… and since she and I both thought Sean’s read was the most compelling, I made him an offer. Thankfully, he accepted. 

Sean was an amazing professional to work with. He made every edit I requested, did everything smoothly and beautifully, and the second I could amass my next pile of cash to produce the sequel, I contacted him to see if he’d be interested, and he jumped all over it. Same with my third. I’m really grateful for the care Sean took with my stories and can’t recommend him highly enough.

2. Do you believe certain types of writing translate better into audiobook format? 

My short answer to this is ‘yes,’ although with the caveat that I still prefer reading on paper because that process blurs a certain divide between my conscious and unconscious and results in the experience I’m seeking when I read. But. I’ve listened to a few audiobooks – it saved my sanity on two cross-country drives! – and I think the experience was similar enough to “reading” that I’d do it again. I think any nonfiction would play well (I adored “In a Sunburned Country” by Bill Bryson); and I think a good narrator will know how to bring a story across as the writer intended.

3. Was a possible audiobook recording something you were conscious of while writing? 

No, but I found when I listened to auditions I did in fact have beliefs about how my characters should sound. As I write my fourth – and having produced three audiobooks at this point – I can say I do think of it, now. And it’s a helpful perspective to have, has helped me refine my own narrative voice on the page, I think.

4. How did you select your narrator?

Sean was one of several people who auditioned for Updrift on the ACX platform. His audition really stood out to me and my actress friend.

5. How closely did you work with your narrator before and during the recording process?

Very closely, and Sean was the consummate professional throughout. He may remember the process differently, but just as proofing a written manuscript results in copy edits, the same little things come up in voice narration. I think there have been only two sentences in the whole of all three works where I asked Sean to re-read with a different tone. The rest was small stuff.

6. Were there any real life inspirations behind your writing? 

Although my stories are not at all retellings, the inspiration for Updrift was The Little Mermaid by Hans Christian Andersen. The little reflection of it I hope people see/enjoy is in the form of a character twist, since I modeled my bad guy after the original heroine. I.e., he was the one who risked everything and suffered the most for what he wanted.

7. Are you an audiobook listener? What about the audiobook format appeals to you? 

Audiobooks are a secondary go-to for me but I have very much enjoyed the ones I’ve listened to. They’ve been invaluable during long trips in the car, and they likely appeal to me because listening feels a bit like when my parents used to read to me when I was little.

8. Is there a particular part of this story that you feel is more resonating in the audiobook performance than in the book format? 

Oh my goodness, yes. Sean’s voice is just this terrific blend of compelling goodies, prompts for the listener to envision the story as well as hear it, and to feel more viscerally the tension the characters feel. And then I think his rich, resonant delivery does a much better job bringing both my hero and my antagonist to life.

9. In your opinion, what are the pros and cons of writing a stand-alone novel vs. writing a series? 

A standalone is just that: a completely contained story with all major loose ends tied up. A series lets you explore the lives of peripheral characters or corollary issues the original story did not address, and when done right I think results in a deeper relationship with the narrative.What’s your favorite:

10. What’s next for you?

I’m going to finish a fourth for this series, Crosstide, if it kills me. And it might. Seriously, I think my brain got broke last year… 😉

***

About the Author: Errin Stevens

Errin Stevens writes paranormal romantic suspense stories from her home in Minnesota. When not wrestling with unruly narrative – or reading literary and commercial fiction like a fiend – you’ll find her poring over seed catalogues (winter) or gardening (the other three days of the year).

TwitterFacebookGoodreadsInstagramPinterest

About the Narrator: Sean Posvistak

Sean is an aspiring game developer who’s used his years of work on Youtube to excel at audiobook narration.

***

Giveaway: 6-month Audible Subscription

Runs Jan. 12th-Feb. 1st⎮Open internationally

https://gleam.io/kEDqL/the-mer-chronicles-giveaway-6month-audible-subscription