Thank you for this share, Jessica Wren. :)

Good morning, and please join me in welcoming a special guest. Meet CE Vance, author of How Maxwell Grover Stole My House.

C.E. Vance is an avid reader and proud Indie author. Aside from dreaming up fantastical tales for her books, she also enjoys writing poetry and short stories. She loves all types of literature, but has a soft spot for children’s fantasy. “How Maxwell Grover Stole My House” is her debut novel and is the initial book in a trilogy for middle-grade readers. She happily resides with her husband and four children in Utah.

Additionally, Vance is also a fantastic supporter of indie authors via organizations such as IndieBooksBeSeen, Author Promo Co-op, and Get Down with the Awethors.

How Maxwell Grover Stole My House.

Currently on sale at Amazon, How Maxwell Grover Stole My House tells the story of a ten-year-old boy who enlists his best friend’s help to try to figure out why a vindictive neighbor is trying to make his life a living hell.

Here is the official blurb:

What if every fear you ever had about your creepy next-door neighbor turned out to be true? 

10- year-old Zeke Langley has become the target of his nasty new neighbor, Maxwell Grover. For reasons known only to him, the unsavory stranger seems determined to make Zeke’s life miserable and force his family out of their home.

Inevitably, Zeke and his best friend Winks set out on a journey to discover what Grover is hiding. What they find sends them down a road they never imagined … and on a mission they may never return from.

Here are what some reviewers are saying about Maxwell Grover:

DM CAIN

I loved this book from start to finish! It was so exciting and every page had me gripped. The characters are fantastic – particularly the disgusting Maxwell Grover himself. As a teacher of 9-11 year olds, I imagine that every kid in my class would just adore this book, but it isn’t just for kids. The idea of a sadistic, bullying adult picking on kids is something everybody can be afraid of. It locks into something inside every one of us, and you just can’t help but root for the kids to come out on top.

Surprisingly, even though I knew the ending (it’s the title of the book for goodness sake!), I actually didn’t expect what happened! And I was definitely left wanting more so I can’t wait for book 2 to be released!

 

RYAN GUY

The name Maxwell Grover sounds harmless enough, right? Wrong. Maxwell Grover is the epitome of a grumpy old man– inside and out. If you’re expecting a heartwarming oh-he’s-just-a-lonely-and-misunderstood-man-who-needs-a-friend twist from this book, you won’t get it. The author’s descriptions of Maxwell are disgusting (in gross-out mid-grade appropriate ways) and a couple of times I regretted trying to eat lunch while reading a chapter.
The ten-year old protagonists acted their age which frequently frazzled my helicopter-parenting nerves . The children repeatedly antagonized Maxwell and invaded his personal space without understanding the potential danger they were placing themselves in. Multiple times I wanted to pull them aside and tell them to stop doing what they were doing because it wasn’t safe. I’ll admit it. I’m getting old.
Mid-grade readers will get a kick out of this one, as long as they can accept not all books have to have a happy ending. BTW, this is not a spoiler. You find out in the first chapter that things aren’t going to end well.

 

JOSE LUIS CRUZ

I bought this book for my nephew who is a struggling reader. I am amazed how both my nephew and I are enjoying the book. C.E. Vance has a natural ability to tell children’s stories and to tell them well. She used suspense, humor, and language in a way to evoke the most natural feelings in story-telling. I look forward to finishing this book with my nephew. Already we have enjoyed Vance’s uncanny ability for description and emphasis on unraveling the story. Thumbs way up!

 

JB

This book was amazing. It kept my interest from the very beginning. It really picked up after Zeke’s family moved to a new place and he befriends Winks. Their adventures went from harmless fun (who didn’t go toilet papering as a kid?) to, I can’t believe you did that and got away with it! …… This was this author’s first book and she is an amazingly talented author! She’s extremely descriptive and weaves a fabulous story. Again, the reason I didn’t give 5 stars is because I’m old-fashioned and like a happy ending that this just didn’t provide. I can’t wait for her next book, though. If it’s a sequel that gives me my happy ending, I will definitely be reading more from this author!

So if you’re looking for a fun read, check out How Maxwell Grover Stole My House. It’s on sale this week, so grab your copy today!

http://www.amazon.com/How-Maxwell-Grover-Stole-House-ebook/dp/B00UP43C1K/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1438128209&sr=1-1&keywords=ce+vance

For U.K. Customers: http://www.amazon.co.uk/How-Maxwell-Grover-Stole-House-ebook/dp/B00UP43C1K/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1438129312&sr=1-1&keywords=CE+VANCE

Exciting announcement from Mistral Dawn!!!!!

Hey Everyone!!! :-)

I revealed the title at my Facebook party last Saturday, but have you been wondering what the cover of Intrigue In The Summer Court would look like?  Well, here it is!!!! :-) 

 Julie Nichols is the talented artist who created it, and I, for one, think she did a totally awesome job!!!! :-)  If you're interested in seeing more of her work, you can find her here:

www.juliemirishkanicholls.wordpress.com

https://www.facebook.com/WallpapersArtworkAndFanArt?ref=bookmarks

Her prices are very reasonable.  For ebook covers that the author provides the stock photos for and just need her to manipulate the photos and paint over small parts, she only charges $20!  To include a wrap-around cover that can be used for a paperback, she charges $30.  And for custom-painted covers (like the one above) she charges $100, and as you can see they are well worth the price!! :-)

For people just looking for decorations for their home or desk, she is working on a new Amazon store (she says it will be like etsy) where she will be listing her work for sale soon.  In the meantime, you can find her books here:

http://www.amazon.com/Julie-Nicholls/e/B00Q5JJF10/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1

Did I mention she's also an amazing novelist?  A woman of many talents!! :-)  The easiest way to contact her for custom artwork is through Facebook. :-)  And besides being wildly talented, she really is a gem! :-) 

So...would you like to see the synopsis for Intrigue In The Summer Court???? ;-)  Here it is:

Jillian just knows something bad is going to happen!  She's been a loyal adviser to the throne and friend of the queen, Briallen, for thousands of years, and now Roni and Uaine's wedding and coronation are to take place in just a couple days.  The Summer Court will have a new king and queen, who can hopefully repair the damage and heal the schism the late king created.  

But Jillian just can't shake the feeling that trouble is brewing.  Many of the Summer nobles aren't happy about the changes that are taking place in the Summer Court, and many of the other Fae just aren't too sure about having a human on the throne...even if she has been blessed by the goddess.  When Angelica, the leader of the Pixies, comes to her with news of a plot to murder the prince and princess, Jillian's suspicions are confirmed.  Will the two of them be able to unravel this conspiracy in time to save the royal couple?  Or will prejudice prevail, and the hope for peace in Fairie be lost forever?

Huh, sounds pretty dire, what do you think? ;-)  Would you like to read some excerpts?  Check these out! :-)

http://mistralkdawn.blogspot.com/2015/07/breaking-news.html?spref=tw

http://mistralkdawn.blogspot.com/2015/07/guess-whos-on-guestlist.html

http://mistralkdawn.blogspot.com/2015/07/uh-oh-what-trouble-are-these-two-up-to.html

http://mistralkdawn.blogspot.com/2015/07/a-sinfulsundays-excerpt.html

http://mistralkdawn.blogspot.com/2015/07/shortstory-update-excerpt.html

And don't forget to stay tuned for the release announcement!!!! :-)  Coming Soon! ;-)

Thanks for stopping by!

Mistral

I missed posting this yesterday..apologies.

Welcome to the first #Author4Author Blog Hop. We're a group of multi-genre, multi-level authors who support, advise, and encourage each other. Our group is open to any writer who sincerely desires to become an author.  Author-4-Author is where dreams of becoming a published author can become a reality, where experienced authors can come to find answers to questions, support for events and publishing, and encouragement in all areas of a writer's life. If you're interested in becoming a member, we can be found on facebook.


THE RULES ARE SIMPLE:

1. Membership to the Author-4-Author group is required
2. Published and unpublished members are eligible to participate in our monthly blog hop.
3. Blog ownership is not required. If you have one, however. we would love for you to link       with us on our blog hops. If you do not have a blog, you can submit your entries to our         email and we will post for you on our blog. We only ask that you share the blog hop on         your social media sites on the day of the hop.
4. Sign up on the linky list below.
5. The link for the code is below. You can also link to us on our blog @ Author-4-Author.
6. Please link back to us either way.
7. #Author4Author#OpeningLines#WritingRight#AuthorsToKnow

OPENING LINES:

My opening lines come from Angel Mine, my first publication, November, 2014.

BLURB:

Jeza is a gorgeous redhead with a broken heart. One afternoon,
she meets a handsome stranger at a local gun range and the sparks fly. 
Instant attraction results in a hot romance, but trouble looms on the
horizon. Her former abusive boyfriend returns to reclaim her with dangerous intent. 

Adult situations and content. Intended for audiences 18+ and older.

FIRST LINE:

Jeza sat on her porch, sipping a glass of whisky and reminiscing.











I am a retired music teacher and professional singer who began her career in Montgomery, Alabama. Moving to Virginia several years later, I taught in the Fairfax County School System for 34+ years. I live below Washington, D.C. with my husband, son and fiancee,  11 cats, one dog, and a noisy cockatiel.  

I have always wanted to write romance novels with a little bit of heat and lots of romance. I believe in happy endings and make sure that what I write is filled with love, some conflict, and sweet resolution.  

Today, I'd like to feature author, Dori Lavelle.

I just finished Learning to Live Again (The Complete Collection) by Dori.  I loved these books and highly recommend them. Here is my review.

I received a copy of this in return for an honest review.

Kelsey rents a cottage several hours from her home in Ireland to escape a failed relationship. She becomes very aware of her neighbor, Shaun, who is trying to recover from the consequences of a painful loss. The two become involved and thus begin the emotional ups and downs that will leave you with smiles and tears. There are moments of joy, sadness, and hot romance. Just when you think their relationship is doomed, there is another step in their journey, and every time, I found myself smiling in anticipation.

The writing flows and the character development is excellent. I fell in love with Kelsey and Shaun as well as the supporting cast that surround them, especially Maeve, Kelsey's friend.

I highly recommend this series. A definite must read. 5 stars.

This can be found at amazon.

http://www.amazon.com/review/ROBM44W0HI2C8/ref=cm_cr_rdp_perm?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B00U31AJ0C

Today, I'd like to feature Falling Angels by Jen Winters, the second in the Guardian Novels series. She has also written Kissing Demons, the first Guardian Novels book, as well as Kissing the Rain. I fell in love with this book and with Ambrose. He is now my new 'book boyfriend".  :)

"What's worse than losing your job? How about losing your life, your home, and everything familiar."    Ambrose

Falling to earth, Ambrose is left to his own devices, doing what he was meant to do, even though his reason for existence has been taken away. After thousands of years, he meets her, but I'll let him tell you.

My review for Falling Angels:

http://www.amazon.com/review/RCXVC81XRXPWD/ref=cm_cr_rdp_perm?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B00ZPVX1SC

Here's what other readers have had to say.
"An enjoyable read."
"Steamy but very sweet."
"This book grabbed my attention and I couldn't put it down until I was done with it."

Falling Angels can be found at Amazon. A must read. Get yours today.

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_2?url=search-alias%3Ddigital-text&field-keywords=Falling+angels+jen+winters

Today, I'll be featuring a newly released short story....Fantazia, by Elize Love... and what a story it is. Here's my review.

This short story is filled with self-discovery, a journey for a woman who has become impatient and unhappy. She finds excitement in paranormal romance novels accompanied by a bottle of good wine. When Elsa meets Jasper, she can't keep her eyes or her imagination in check. He is the best looking man she has ever seen and as a janitor replacing a light bulb in her office, he certainly gives her libido a kick. Little does she know what waits for her. Jasper invites her to his club and she, not being able to resist, shows up one night and what she finds is exactly what she has needed. Fantazia will make you smile, give you moments of hot romance, but most of all, this is a fun read, one that will leave you with...."Where can I find a place like Fantazia".

I think you will enjoy this short read. Available at Amazon.


http://www.amazon.com/Fantazia-Club-Book-One-ebook/dp/B011P3O5H4

Elle Klass has released her Baby Girl Box Set, I-IV.  Check below for information. The story of Cleo is  mesmerizing. A must read.

Released 7/13!

Mystery, Romance, Suspense!

“A slight sting festered at my heart for leaving the only home I’d ever known. Through the night at a steady speed the train roared forward.”

“You should be happy.” His silver bullets drilled into my heart and his smell drove me wild. I took a step back, trying to keep myself from doing something I’d regret later.
He took a step forward and then another. Before I knew what was happening, he folded me into his arms and leaned down and kissed my orange less-moppy head.”

Amazon – http://amzn.to/1FxfUTW

Amazon.co.uk – http://www.amazon.co.uk/Baby-Girl-Box-Books-I…/…/B00YDJX24K/

Smashwords - https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/545931

Barnes and Noble - http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/baby-girl-box-se…/1122002631

Box set includes In the Beginning, Moonlighting is Paris, City by the Bay, and Bite the Big Apple.
Abandoned at 12, Baby Girl is forced to face the harsh realities of life and struggles to find her path. She forages for sustenance, steals from the wealthy, and sleeps in any dark hole she can find. A ‘family’ of sorts forms between her and a band of other youngsters. Together they fight for survival, friendship, and love in the midst, but that is only the beginning. Life throws her one curve ball after another until secrets are revealed and the search for her true origins begins and ends with the powerful truth.

Today, I'd like to feature two authors. Elle Klass has released her Baby Girl Box Set, I-IV. A big CONGRATULATIONS, Elle!

http://amzn.to/1FxfUTW

Today is the cover reveal for EXPOSED by Ivy Stone.

The best of luck, Ivy.

I apologize for my absence...too many issues to discuss.:)

Today is Jen Winters Appreciation Day on Facebook. Drop by and say hello to an outstanding author and friend. This is from Jessica Wren's blog, another outstanding author and friend. Check this out.

http://jessicawrenfiction.com/2015/06/20/presenting-special-guests-jen-winters-and-yuruch/