Tuesday, December 31, 2013

Frankenstein: Unleashed

Here are all the details on my upcoming release, Frankenstein: Unleashed. I thoroughly enjoyed writing this book. It was a little scary sometimes how easy it was for me to get into the mind of Victor Frankenstein. He was actually the easiest character to write about. I'm not sure what that says about me, but I hope readers enjoy the story. On a side note, I am very proud of the way this cover turned out. I think it's one of my best yet. :)





COMING JANUARY 2014

Elizabeth has kept her family secret well. As the last in a long line of witches, her dreams are prophetic. And Elizabeth dreams of murder. She knows that men are being killed exactly as she sees in her visions, but she has no means to stop their slaughter. Her dreams are not the only thing troubling her. With an engagement to Victor Frankenstein that has lasted for years, she has begun to believe that her destiny lies elsewhere. That destiny is revealed in her dreams in one instant and taken away in the next. Grief-stricken and afraid, she follows where her heart leads … to the body of Victor’s latest experiment.

Scarred at a young age by the death of his beloved mother, Victor Frankenstein has become fascinated with the possibility of bringing the dead back to life. After years of secret research, he has achieved some small measure of success. Though, he should have been more careful when he chose his last victim.

For Elizabeth accidentally gives life to the creation that Victor could not. He awakens with no memory, a body not his own, and only the name that she gives him … Lucian.

Warning: This story contains graphic violence, sex, and some graphic language.


Sunday, December 29, 2013

A Newbie's Guide to Publishing: Konrath's Publishing Predictions 2014

Since I know other authors read my blog, and I try to find helpful information, I wanted to share this.

Although some of his predictions are a little scary to think about, I believe that Mr. Konrath is spot on with his analysis of the industry. Whether or not all this will happen in 2014, I don't know. But I truly believe it will happen. I've predicted a few of these myself, especially the one about Barnes & Nobel.

A bold new world is developing for indie authors. It's time to get on board, or be left behind. Scary, huh?

A Newbie's Guide to Publishing: Konrath's Publishing Predictions 2014

Friday, December 20, 2013

How to get your books out of the "EROTICA" category on Amazon

So, you've written a book. You polished it to perfection and published it through Amazon. After spending time carefully deciding what categories your book should be listed among you see that Amazon (without your knowledge) has tossed your awesome book into the black hole of EROTICA.

Why? Well, the more I research the subject, I've figured out quite a few reasons. Some of them are downright stupid, as you could imagine.

First, let me clear something up. There is a big difference in EROTICA and EROTIC ROMANCE. They are NOT the same thing. In an erotic story the plot itself revolves around the sex. If you remove the sex, there is no story. In an erotic romance, the story revolves around the romance as well as sub-plots, there just happens to be sex in it. If you remove the sex, you still have a story. Yes, that is oversimplified, but that is the way I define the difference. No matter how you look at it, EROTICA and EROTIC ROMANCE are not the same thing. Oh, and NEITHER OF THEM ARE PORN. That is quite another category. PORN is sex just for the sake of sex. There is no plot, just sex.

But, I digress. I was looking all this up because two of my books got thrown into the black hole of EROTICA and I could not, no matter how hard I tried get them into the proper categories. I tried everything.

First, I went into the book's details page on KDP and manually selected the categories over again and republished. That didn't work.

Next, I called and called until I finally got someone on the phone. He was unable to help me, but at least he was polite.

When I finally got an email in response to the actual issue, and not simply a form letter blowing me off, the person explained that my covers were considered "mature content," and that I needed to change them. Okay, so I changed the covers. They weren't by any means obscene to begin with, but whatever. I wrote them back, stating that I had made the changes requested and politely asked that my books now be placed into their proper categories, seeing as how NEITHER of them is erotica.

I was very rudely informed that my books had been labeled as having "mature content." That Amazon reserves the right to decide what is "mature content," and my books would never be allowed into their general search feature.

What assholes, right?

Well, after careful consideration, I found a way around this. Now, I'm not trying to publish filth and slip it under the radar. Certainly, some of my books are erotic romance, but none of them are straight erotica. If Amazon is going to use that category, they should at least teach their employees the proper definition.

And for the record, I am very offended if someone says I write "smut." I want to punch them in the face. But, I'm getting off subject. LOL

Oh, before I go on, there are apparently "trigger" words that, if found in your book description, can get them automatically thrown into the EROTICA category.

I'm sure some people are wondering why it's so bad to be in the EROTICA category. Because EROTICA is where books go to die. Amazon lumps everything in there that "offends" them and books get buried. It's a good way to have your book (that you undoubtedly worked very hard to complete) never see the light of day.

Back to trigger words. It is perfectly all right to include a warning with your book. I do this. However, never use phrases like "mature content," "18 and over," "adult," etc. These throw up a red flag. (It is okay to say that your book contains graphic violence, and sex. I like to include that no werewolves were harmed in the making of my books. LOL) Also, when publishing through Create Space, NEVER click the button that says your book contains adult/mature content. Even if it does, that is what a description is for. That button is what getting thrown into the black hole is for. ;)

As I searched the net for information, something else that bothered and surprised me were the number of people that thought this "feature" of Amazon's is somehow protecting children. That's ridiculous! If your kid is shopping all by themselves on Amazon, and using your credit/debit card, something is wrong, and it isn't with Amazon. Besides that, it isn't the job of a retailer OR the authors to worry about what someone else's kid sees. That's called parenting. Placing an honest description on your book is all you have a responsibility to do. Period.

So, here's what I did. So far, it has worked.

The only choice I felt like I had, on my books, was to unpublish them both. I didn't just click republish though, like I know others have tried. I uploaded them both as completely new titles, with new covers, and slightly changed their descriptions.

Unfortunately, this means that one title will loose the slight momentum of about 90 sales thus far. BUT, it will be visible in the proper categories, which should lead to even more sales.

Once again, I'm not trying to be dishonest. I'm simply trying to help readers find my books, in the logical categories where they belong. I always tell readers as straight-forward and honestly as possible what they are getting in the book's description. 

I hope this helps someone else who is dealing with the erotica black hole.



Monday, December 16, 2013

Holiday survival tips

I only have a few tips to share. First of all, AVOID everyone that you feel is a complete and utter asshat. If that is impossible, try some of the drink recipes below. LOL

The following drinks are from the menu at Original Sin, Dracula's nightclub in the Lilith Mercury series. All ingredients should be mixed to taste. Oh, and did I mention that I invented most of them? Yep. I tried them out on a friend of mine as well. I wanted to be sure that the names were catchy, and the flavors weren't nasty. ;)



Angel’s Halo: Raspberry Vodka & White Godiva Liqueur

The Devil’s Kiss: Vodka, White Godiva Liqueur & Cinnamon Schnapps

Bottled Sin: Raspberry Infused Vodka & Cranberry Juice



Original Sin: White rum, Apricot brandy, Lemon juice, Superfine sugar, Grenadine



If you're looking for something to go with all these great drinks, here's my favorite chili recipe.


Heaven & Hell Chili


2 tablespoons vegetable oil, 


2 pounds hamburger, 


1 large onion (optional) I replace this with 1 tbs crushed garlic,


chopped jalapenos, you can use fresh ones or out of the can. I use the veg oil to lightly 


brown my peppers.  


1 package chili seasoning mix, or you can experiment with your own seasonings, 


3 drops (or more) of hot sauce, 


1 28 oz. can crushed tomatoes with juice, 


1 8 oz can tomato sauce, 


1 28 oz can dark red kidney beans, drained, 


1 28 oz can light red kidney beans, drained, 


1 1/2 tablespoons powdered chocolate (you can use the baking kind or Nesquick.  )


1 4.5 oz can chopped chilies, drained. Trust me, this chili is awesome. 




Happy Holidays! May you avoid the asshats and have a great time! 

Friday, December 6, 2013

Overjoyed

I always knew what that word meant, in a technical sense. However, until recently, I never truly "felt" overjoyed before. I've experienced happiness, but this goes so far beyond that.

Lately, I have been so excited as 4 of my books climb the charts over at Amazon. I'm not posting this to brag, but to share how I'm feeling right now. It seems that a lot of other writers get angry when they see someone posting about book ratings or good reviews. I think they are missing the point. Being happy for someone else when they succeed is the very best way to assure your own success.

Most people do not share their "wins" to be jerks. They are just thrilled that something good has happened to them. As I watch those numbers climb higher and higher, I don't want to rub it in anyone's face. Here's an example of what's going through my head.

"I can pay my bills now!"

"So, THIS is what it feels like to make real money doing what you love!."

"Oh, my GOD. People are actually reading my work and "getting" me."

"This is amazing!"

"I feel like a real author now."

There are not words to express how happy I am. That is what being overjoyed feels like. Not only are my book's rankings improving, so is my author ranking. Right now I'm in the top 100 in Horror and Paranormal Romance. That is freaking amazing! As far as I know those are two of the hardest categories to break into, simply because there is so much horror and paranormal romance out there. LOL

I'm positively giddy right now. I am watching my dreams come to life one day at a time. I wish I had the words to let you know how that feels.




Tuesday, December 3, 2013

It's been a while since I've blogged

I didn't realize until I looked at my calendar today, but it has been nearly a month since my last post. Since I really should be working on proof reading right now, here's a brief rundown of what's going on with me. Just so everyone knows I'm still alive.

These are in no particular order.

I've started doing yoga again to improve my flexibility.

I have 4 books on the top 100 lists (Dark Fantasy, Mythology & Folklore, Fairy Tales, Werewolves & Shifters, & Vampires) on Amazon and I am thrilled about it.

I've been working on proof reading Frankenstein: Unleashed (Jan. 2014) and am close to being finished.

I made myself take a week off for Thanksgiving and I feel pretty good about that.

I've discovered that my sister-in-law is an irredeemable twat. I feel less great about that. But, at least it makes my holiday plans much simpler. LOL

I've got some new ideas for Bound by Blood, once I finally get to work on it again.

My dog Roscoe continues to be a little jelly roll. LOL

I'm psyched for the new Hobbit movie.

I've ordered my husband and I matching wedding bands that look like the one ring. ;)

Okay, that's a glimpse into my exciting (Ha. Ha.) life. I've really got to get back to work. I just wanted to let everyone know that I'm still here.


Thursday, November 14, 2013

How about some cognac shrimp?


As many of you may already know, I love to cook. Especially, when the weather changes. Something about cooler temperatures (which I wait for all year) really taps into my inner "Martha Stewart" or whatever you want to call it. LOL

So far, I am LOVING this wonderful fall weather, and I'm breaking out a few recipes that I haven't cooked in a while. Well, that and as I'm editing Frankenstein: Unleashed, I keep fighting the overwhelming urge to start watching Buffy The Vampire Slayer all over again. But, I'm rambling. Back to the recipes.

Here's a good one.

Cognac Shrimp.

This easy shrimp main dish is quick to prepare. Also, if you're lactose intolerant (like me), you can substitute the heavy cream for full fat lactose free milk. I like to serve this over pasta, but it goes well with most any grilled or sauteed veggie dish. 


Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
·         1 shallot, chopped
·         ½ cup dry white wine
·         2 tablespoons lemon juice
·         1 tablespoon heavy cream
·         12 tablespoons cold butter
·         1/16 teaspoon white pepper
·         5 tablespoons butter
·         ¾ lb medium shrimp, rinsed and deveined
·         1/2 teaspoon salt
·         2 tablespoons Cognac
Preparation:
To make:
Simmer the shallots, white wine, and lemon juice in a small saucepan over low-medium heat for 5-10 minutes, until the mixture is reduced to about 2 tablespoons. Add the cream and bring to just under a simmer. When the first few bubbles rise, turn the heat down very slightly and add the 12 tablespoons of butter, one tablespoon at a time, whisking constantly. Be sure to allow one pat of butter to melt completely before adding the next. Once the butter is fully incorporated, season the sauce with white pepper and set aside.
In a skillet over high heat, melt 5 tablespoons of butter, and then saut̩ shrimp, turning a few times until cooked through Рabout 3-4 minutes. Reduce the heat to low and season the shrimp with salt. Carefully add the Cognac (it may flame) and stir thoroughly. Spoon the warm sauce over the hot shrimp and serve.

Makes 2 servings.

Wednesday, November 13, 2013

New titles for 99 cents

I've been busy, again. LOL As it gets closer to the holiday season, I don't know about you, but money is always on my mind. Not just money in general, but how to save more of it and get more of what I want. I think that's what a lot of people have on their minds right now. So, what are you to do when you have a "reading habit" that needs to be indulged? Well, that's where my brainstorming comes in. I've put together 2 more collections and am offering them for only 99 cents on Amazon. :)

I wanted to give readers something to enjoy on those cold nights ahead, and I wanted to offer it at a great price. I am pleased to present the Bite Me Collection. Here are all the details.


Two hot vampire romance novels by Tracey H. Kitts, combined for the very first time into VOLUME ONE of the Bite Me, Vampire Romance Collection.

The Bite Me Vampire Romance Collection, Volume One includes:

1. Till the Break of Dawn
2. Frank and The Werewolf Tamer

Till the Break of Dawn

Thanks to a bet with her best friend, Dawn is about to get involved with the undead love of her life for the second time. So what if he's immortal. It could work, right?


Warning: This book contains graphic sex, graphic language, and one smoking hot vampire.
Frank and The Werewolf Tamer

Katherine has had a hard time finding work, mostly because she's a vampire. Turns out, people aren't clamoring to work with the undead. She goes to the massive theme park, Notte Oscura, as a last resort. What Katherine doesn't realize is, there's a lot more waiting for her than just a job.


Warning: This book contains graphic sex, graphic language, and violence.






Two hot vampire romance novels by Tracey H. Kitts, combined for the very first time into VOLUME TWO of the Bite Me, Vampire Romance Collection.

The Bite Me Vampire Romance Collection, VOLUME TWO includes:

1. Eden
2. Wicked City

Eden

Catrina's world is turned upside down the moment she agrees to Viktor's plan. Who even knew that Abraham Van Helsing had a younger brother? Not only that, but a brother who was turned by the King of Vampires and who held such obvious power. Now she must deal with the consequences of her actions and an attraction she can no longer deny.

Viktor wants her to spy on the alpha werewolf, Alexander. He suspects Alex is responsible for the murder of a fellow vampire. However, there is one major problem with this plan. The werewolf is just as hard to resist as Viktor and Catrina is caught right in the middle.

Warning: This book contains, graphic language, graphic sex, violence, and two smoking hot heroes. 


Wicked City

Lavinia accepted what she is a long time ago. She isn't squeamish when it comes to blood or her sexuality. After all, both blood and sex are necessary to sustain a succubus. She is a well-trained assassin. Working for her fellow vampire and occasional lover comes naturally for her. When she is sent out to kill someone, they die. It's that simple. But what if her target means more to her than he should?
Synn thought he knew what he was getting into when he encountered the succubus that first night, but he may still be in over his head. She was sent to kill him, and still he wants her. One man has never been enough for Lavinia, however, the wizard Synn thinks he's man enough for the job.

Warning: This book contains graphic violence, graphic language, and graphic sex, including multiple partners.


Monday, November 4, 2013

I'm still here, just busy. :)

 
When I realized how long it had been since I blogged I thought, "Wow. I should probably let people know I'm still alive. LOL

First of all, I love this time of year. From October-February, the weather here is fantastic. So, I've been taking longer walks with my dog, Roscoe and spending more time in the fresh, cool air.

Aside from that, I've been working really hard to finish some upcoming books. Some are new and others are re-releases.

I just finished writing Frankenstein: Unleashed. This is another erotic horror title with me writing as T.K. Hardin. It is scheduled to be released in January 2014.

Right now, I'm working on getting Three Days of Night ready for its re-release in December 2013. As it stands right now, I should be finished with the final edits this week.

Plus, Three Days of Night is the final book to be returned to me from my former publisher. This means that aside from my works published with Ellora's Cave, I'm all indie. I have to say, that is a great feeling.

Speaking of Ellora's Cave, I've got another book coming out with them, no release date yet. It's called Howl for me. This story was previously published as Once in a Blue Moon, but has gotten a re-vamp. No pun intended. LOL This one is about a werewolf.

In addition to all that, I've got cover art ready to go for the next 2 Lilith Mercury books, both are currently on my schedule for sometime next year. No definite release dates yet.

Oh, and during all this time, the Eternally Yours Vampire Menage Collection has remained on the Dark Fantasy Best Sellers list on Amazon. (in the top 10) I can't wipe smile from my face. :)



Monday, October 21, 2013

My Awesome Graveyard Cake recipe




Yes, it's that time of year again. For those who might have missed it before, this is my semi-famous Graveyard/Ghost Cake recipe. :) The one in the picture above got a pumpkin patch added on. 

Get your ghost on

I love Halloween. Always have. When I was little I was fascinated by getting to dress up and be someone else (or my real self) for a day. I love the change in seasons, colors, the smell of spices and burning leaves. Not to mention, cooler weather. Ha. Ha. (If you didn’t know, I’m from Florida. We really appreciate cold fronts down here.)

All of my favorite things happen during the month of October, including my favorite holiday, Halloween. And of course it wouldn’t be the same without my ghost cake. This is actually a Graveyard Cake recipe that I’ve modified slightly. Since I can’t resist putting those cute little ghosts on mine, I call it a Ghost Cake.

Ingredients for your Graveyard/Ghost Cake 

Don’t forget to use your own imagination here. You can use whatever you like as a topping. I’ve seen everything from bloody graves (strawberry syrup) to witch hats made from candy corn. Plus, if you’re lactose intolerant (like me) you can make this using lactose free milk. It tastes just the same.

1 box Devils food Cake Mix, mixed and baked as directed

12 oz. Oreo Cookies, crushed

6-10 Oval shaped Butter Cookies (Pepperidge Farm Milanoes work well. I’ve also used chocolate wafers dipped in chocolate before too.)

White Icing

Chocolate Icing (or white with black food coloring to make a nice grey)
Assorted tubes of Cake Decorating Gel in Halloween colors
(orange, yellow, brown, etc.)

1 cup Candy Corn or Pumpkin Shaped Candies

Several small gummy worms (Or whatever you like)
Putting your Graveyard/Ghost cake together 

Bake cake according to package directions or recipe and let it cool completely.

Spread on the icing

Top with Crushed Oreo Cookies

Using gel frostings to write spooky and funny sayings on the top half of the cookies such as "BOO", "RIP", “ILMAO,” “B.A. GOUL,” etc.

Press the cookies halfway down into the cake here and there to resemble standing tombstones. Tilt a couple of them.

You can randomly place gummy worms around in your graveyard or whatever other candy you like.


If you want to do the ghosts, I put some white icing into a plastic bag and snip the tip. Squeeze out into little ghosts shapes (again randomly) over the cake. Remember, they don’t need to be perfect, just look like little ghosts. If they look kind of like snow men, don’t worry. Make a little point at the top of their heads by running a toothpick through the icing and pulling upward. TADA! You’re done!

Serves 8-12. 



Sunday, October 13, 2013

Vampires, werewolves, and menage romance, all on sale

That's right, I've got several books on sale right now, exclusively on Amazon. So, I thought I would share them (and their great prices) here.

The first is the Eternally Yours Vampire Menage Collection, on sale now for only 99 cents. This is three full-length novels, NOT short stories or novellas.



****This collection is being offered for a limited time at an introductory price.****

Three vampire ménage novels by Tracey H. Kitts, combined for the very first time into one smoking hot collection. That is what you're getting with the Eternally Yours Vampire Ménage Collection.

The Eternally Yours Vampire Ménage Collection includes:

1. Bitten
2. Necromancer
3. Diary of An Incubus

BITTEN

Sandra Ashton is a witch who suddenly finds herself dating three vampires. So, what do you do when you've got three immortal beings professing their undying or is that undead love for you? You agree to what they like to call, "joint custody."
WARNING: This book contains graphic language, violence, and lots of sex.

NECROMANCER

Jane Masters has no idea she's a necromancer. Luis and Henri are the vampires responsible for the power mingled in her blood. Though her love life improves dramatically after meeting them, Jane faces a more urgent situation than dating a vampire or two. As Luis and Henri reveal the details of her past life and the source of her power, they learn there's a killer on the loose and Jane is next on the list. As for her newly discovered past with the vampires, her heart remembers them. But will she survive to love them this time?
WARNING: This book contains graphic violence, graphic language, and graphic sex, as well as two smoking hot vampires.

DIARY OF AN INCUBUS

Jewel Mathers needed a good story for her next novel. She turned to the ancient journals in desperation. But fame and fortune comes with a price ... and a couple of hot vampires.
WARNING: This story contains violence, lots of sex, and some frightening creatures. No werewolves were harmed in the making of this book.



Next, is the Lilith Mercury Werewolf Hunter Collection, on sale for only $2.99. Once again, this is 3 full-length novels, NOT short stories or novellas. 

**This collection is being offered at a special introductory price.**


This is a collection of the first three books in the Lilith Mercury, Werewolf Hunter series. This series focuses on the life of Lilith Mercury, a werewolf Hunter who is also half werewolf. Did I mention there are several sexy men in her life? This story has graphic violence, and graphic sex. It also has a new take on the origins of werewolves and vampires. There are many ups and downs in Lilith's life and much more to come. 



This series gets hotter as it goes. No werewolves were harmed in the making of this series.
This set includes: 
1. Red
2. Object of My Affection
3. The Dread Moon


RED
This is Book One in the Lilith Mercury Series.
Dr. Alfred Moody saved her life, but the werewolf, Marco may hold the key to her heart. She's torn between the man who saved her humanity and the one who makes her want to embrace the beast.


NOTE: This series gets hotter as it goes. However, Book One is NOT erotic. Someday Lilith will have a happy ending, but this is only the beginning.



WARNING: This book contains graphic language and graphic violence.


OBJECT OF MY AFFECTION



This is book two in the Lilith Mercury, Werewolf Hunter Series.



There was a time when the battle lines were clearly drawn and there would've been no question, no doubts, but that time has passed. Though Lilith is still drawn to the wolfman, Marco, she cannot deny what she feels for her partner, Alfred. She remains torn between a man who was once her enemy and one who is becoming much more than her friend.



WARNING: This book contains graphic language, graphic violence, and graphic sex. No werewolves were harmed in the making of this book.



THE DREAD MOON


This is Book Three in the Lilith Mercury Series.


Lilith's reputation as the best in the business has spread, and not just to the lycanthrope population. She's been hired to find the original vampire. The vamps want what everyone else wants, equality. However, she will soon realize that the original vampire isn't simply out for blood, or the return of rights to his people ... he wants Lilith too.


WARNING: This book contains graphic violence, graphic language, and sex with BDSM elements including autoerotic asphyxiation.



Other titles in the series:

Book Four, Original Sin - AVAILABLE NOW


Book Five, A Dream Forbidden - COMING SOON


Book Six, The Bleeding Heart - COMING SOON

Purchase your copy by clicking here.



Lastly, Wicked City is on sale right now for 99 cents.


This title is being offered for a limited time at a promotional price.
Lavinia accepted what she is a long time ago. She isn't squeamish when it comes to blood or her sexuality. After all, both blood and sex are necessary to sustain a succubus. She is a well-trained assassin. Working for her fellow vampire and occasional lover comes naturally for her. When she is sent out to kill someone, they die. It's that simple. But what if her target means more to her than he should?

Synn thought he knew what he was getting into when he encountered the succubus that first night, but he may still be in over his head. She was sent to kill him, and still he wants her. One man has never been enough for Lavinia, however, the wizard Synn thinks he's man enough for the job.

Warning: This book contains graphic violence, graphic language, and graphic sex, including multiple partners. 





Friday, October 11, 2013

Guest Blogger, Abigail Owen

Please, help me welcome guest author Abigail Owen as she talks about social media for authors. :)




Early on in my career as a self-published author I realized the value and importance of use of social media as marketing tools. In the last year, I feel like I’ve progressed in my use of these tools by leaps and bounds. And then I run across something awesome that makes me realize I’m still a novice.

For fun, I’ve broken up the different social media options I’m aware of into levels. There’s basic, rock star, and out of this universe. Personally, I feel like I’m at rock star and teetering on out of this universe as far as use. But I’m sure there are many things I could be doing better. I’ll be really curious to see what you guys think about the different marketing tools out there. Which ones do you like best?

Level 1: Basic (Facebook, Twitter, Blog or Website)
These are the social media/marketing tools every author seems to (and should?) have at least set up and a basic working knowledge. Someone once turned me onto a “how to” book for authors by H.P. Mallory that went into good detail on each of these. My blog/website and Facebook I feel like I’ve got down pretty well. I enjoy interactions with readers on both and have settled into a good method of keeping up with them.

I’m still playing around with what exactly I use Twitter for. I recently decided that I’m not a huge fan of people with Twitter accounts that only ever post promotional stuff. I personally like to read about what they’re doing. But who cares if I have cheerios in the morning. So, just lately, I’ve decided to mix up the promo stuff with observations… situations, funny conversations, interesting people I’ve seen… all things I might write into a book someday.

Level 2: Rock Star (Goodreads, Pinterest, Email List)
A Goodreads author page was a must. It’s been really interesting to see readers put me in their “to read” category and the difference in ratings vs. Amazon. I’ll admit, I haven’t figured out how to do other stuff with it. I know you can do events, post status, etc. But I’m not there yet.

Pinterest is a favorite spot for me. I use it for a lot of things. For any book I’m working on, I’ll pin various things that are being written into the book – pics of people that look like the characters, places where settings will be, different creatures or things key to the plot. I also have boards for brainstorming – pictures that might inspire me, etc.

Thanks to MailChimp I’m finally on a role with my email list. I feel like the people that sign up for this list are my personal rock stars. They’re the ones who really care about when my books come out and what I’m doing. So I enjoy putting together stuff for them.

Level 3: Out of this Universe (Blog Tours, Release Parties, Book Trailers)
I’m just nearing the end of my first big, organized blog tour. And I’m kicking myself for not having done one sooner. The impact in terms of reaching new readers, and the fun in terms of getting to write guest posts like these means I’ll definitely do this again.

Five other authors and I released an anthology called “Here, Kitty Kitty”. It’s a set of short stories featuring exotic feline shapeshifters. One of the other authors organized a release party on Facebook. I had no idea what to expect, but the participation and fun was awesome. Not sure I’m there yet in terms of having enough people to ask to participate, but it’s on my list of things to try.

A book trailer sounds really, really fun to me. But I’m not savvy enough to do one myself. So it’s also on my list of “to dos.” No eta on when yet though.

Anything Else?
What am I missing? I’m sure there are lots of other fun, zany ways to interact with readers, reach more audiences, and get the word out about my book. I just haven’t experienced them yet. What are your favorites?


Thanks to Tracey for hosting me!

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Abigail Owen is the Award Winning Author of Blue Violet & the Svatura Series

Places to follow Abigail:
Website & Blog: http://www.abigailowen.com


Wednesday, October 9, 2013

October has inspired me

I have been SO ridiculously busy this month, and the second week isn't even finished yet. LOL I've been cleaning, gardening, even walking my dog extra. But most of all, I've been writing like crazy. I think it's the change in the air. Living in Florida is truly miserable until late September - mid March. Sometimes the heat is too much even in March.

Today is another of those fabulous days and I'm eager to share what I've been working on. Everyone is trying to save money, myself included. So, I wanted to do something to help my readers save money AND still be able to pay my bills.

I decided to put together a few boxed sets of some of my most popular books.

First, I put together the Lilith Mercury, Werewolf Hunter Collection. This is a collection of the first three books in the Lilith Mercury, Werewolf Hunter series, along with a clickable table of contents. This series focuses on the life of Lilith Mercury, a werewolf Hunter who is also half werewolf. Did I mention there are several sexy men in her life? This story has graphic violence, and graphic sex. It also has a new take on the origins of werewolves and vampires. There are many ups and downs in Lilith's life and much more to come.

I wanted to give readers a significant savings, and still give them a reason to check out my Lilith Mercury series. (This collection is 248,567 words in length, if you were wondering.) At its introductory price readers will save $4.98. That's enough to buy more books! Ha. Ha.


Lilith Collection, Boxes

Purchase your copy here: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FP85QUG


Next, I started working on something even more wickedly fun, the Eternally Yours Vampire Menage Collection (3 Books). I wanted to put together something entertaining/sexy for readers, as well as something that would save them money. This three book collection is 2,49, 754 words of content. Normally, that much story would cost nearly $13. At its introductory price, that is a savings of $12.98! And did I mention there are lots of sexy vampires?

This collection includes my best selling full-length novels Bitten, Necromancer, and Diary of an Incubus. All for the starting price of .99 cents.

Eternally Yours Collection

Purchase your copy here: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FQ5TSFC

As you can see, I'm all fired up about October. LOL I sincerely hope everyone enjoys these stories, and the money they save. Now, I'm off to hang more ghosts in my trees. Yay for cooler temperatures and lower humidity!



Sunday, October 6, 2013

Hot sex, a wicked hot werewolf, a vampire assassin, and an immortal wizard.



That's right, I'm talking about just a few of the characters you'll find in Wicked City. Since this story does have a good dose of horror, I've decided to put it on sale for this spooky time of year. LOL 

Wicked City is available for a limited time, for only 99 cents! Why? Because I love my readers. and I want them to have something good and spooky/sexy to read for Halloween. 

This title is a full-length novel and normally sells for $3.99. 

Here are the details:

This title is being offered for a limited time at a promotional price.

Lavinia accepted what she is a long time ago. She isn't squeamish when it comes to blood or her sexuality. After all, both blood and sex are necessary to sustain a succubus.


She is a well-trained assassin. Working for her fellow vampire and occasional lover comes naturally for her. When she is sent out to kill someone, they die. It's that simple. But what if her target means more to her than he should?

Synn thought he knew what he was getting into when he encountered the succubus that first night, but he may still be in over his head. She was sent to kill him, and still he wants her. One man has never been enough for Lavinia, however, the wizard Synn thinks he's man enough for the job.

Warning: This book contains graphic violence, graphic language, and graphic sex, including multiple partners.


Purchase your copy here: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ABP5JUA


Please, help me spread the word. I would LOVE to see Wicked City climb the charts. Oh, and this is the cover voted on by my readers. ;)