Amy Kuivalainen's Blog
August 17, 2021
I'm No Longer Here
Hey everyone,
This message is to let you know I'm no longer actively managing my Good Reads. If you have any questions for me, or want an update on when new releases are coming, please check me out on Instagram, or better yet, click on the link below to find my newsletter.
https://amykuivalainenauthor.com/blog-2/
Thanks
Amy
This message is to let you know I'm no longer actively managing my Good Reads. If you have any questions for me, or want an update on when new releases are coming, please check me out on Instagram, or better yet, click on the link below to find my newsletter.
https://amykuivalainenauthor.com/blog-2/
Thanks
Amy
April 12, 2019
The Immortal City - all the info
In the heart of Venice, a woman is sacrificed to a forgotten god,
sparking a mystery lost for thousands of years.
The Da Vinci Code meets Discovery of Witches in this story of murder and magic...
Welcome to The Immortal City, book 1 in the Magicians of Venice series
The Magicians of Venice is a fresh and exciting new treasure hunt series featuring magic, mystery, and romance in an exhilarating blend of history and dark magic. Set against the backdrop of the beautiful city of Venice, fans of Indiana Jones and Robert Langdon will find a new favorite in Dr. Penelope Bryne, an anxiety-riddled academic. She’s fascinated with the city of Atlantis, much to the chagrin of her father and the academic community, and has devoted her life’s study to unlocking its secrets.
In The Immortal City, book one in the series, an ancient and mysterious script is found at a murder site with possible clues to the lost city of Atlantis. Determined to learn more, she agrees to help the police before the killer strikes again, and she heads to Venice in search of answers.
There she meets the enigmatic Alexis Donato, who challenges everything she thought she ever knew about Atlantis. As Alexis draws her into a dark and seductive world of magic and murder, Penelope will have to use her heart as well as her head to find the answers she seeks. With Carnivale in full swing, and time running out, Alexis and Penelope must work together to stop the killer and prevent a dark magic from pulling Venice into the sea.
Look how pretty it is I am dying!!! Also that's not even the BEST news...DIGITAL ARCS (Advanced Reader Copies) and the pre-order are also available! Whoop whoop!
Book reviewers and bloggers interested in reviewing the book may request a digital ARC of The Immortal City. ARCs are available through NetGalley and at the publisher’s website .
The Immortal City releases on September 19, 2019 in hardcover, trade softcover, and ebook. Preorder is currently available from select retailers.
Now I can finally talk about it let's talk about the inspiration behind the Magicians of Venice Series (don't worry there's no spoilers):
The Magicians of Venice is a three-book series and is the culmination of many weird pieces of ancient history and personal passions finally coming together.
I’ve always loved characters like Indiana Jones and Robert Langdon, but I wanted to write a story that turned the adventurer archaeologist trope on its head. It was important to me to create a female character that is not an oversexualised, badass Lara Croft figure. My character, Penelope Bryne, is an anxiety-ridden academic refusing to give up on the impossible dream of discovering Atlantis and who continues to be brave despite her failings.
I’ve always loved the legends and theories behind Atlantis and continue to this day to follow any new discoveries that might pertain to it. I wanted to play with some of the legends and mash them up with my own ideas and love of magicians, creating a story about survivors who become close to immortal because of the powerful blast that destroyed the island kingdom.
If there was ever a place that is so impossible and beautiful and could make you believe it was founded by magicians, it’s Venice. Even though my Venice obviously has many fantasy aspects, I wanted to ensure current issues were correctly portrayed especially concerning global warming, the MOSE project, the problem with cruise ships, and the impact that tourism has on the city.
While The Immortal City (book one) is mainly a magical, murder mystery, Sea of the Dead (book two) and The King’s Seal (book three) have a treasure hunt feel. As a student of ancient history, I’ve studied the Dead Sea Scrolls, and I knew about the discovery of a new cave in 2017 and was determined to write it into my book. There is still a lot of mystery surrounding the scrolls, and I wanted to play into that while incorporating my own magical twist and theories of why the Essenes vanished.
I grew up on fairy tales and mythology, and wanted to not only write about a famous relic that I’ve always been fascinated with, but also one that mainstream entertainment hasn’t plundered, so Atlantis and other relics that pop up are going to be really unique.
Sounds amazing? Yes, it's going to be a hell of a ride and one that I'm sure many of you will get behind, and will fall in love with these new characters as much as I have! I'm so excited!
Don't forget to use this pre-order link, it's set up for you to just click on the link to your fave store so you don't need to go searching for it.
Ames x
sparking a mystery lost for thousands of years.
The Da Vinci Code meets Discovery of Witches in this story of murder and magic...
Welcome to The Immortal City, book 1 in the Magicians of Venice series
The Magicians of Venice is a fresh and exciting new treasure hunt series featuring magic, mystery, and romance in an exhilarating blend of history and dark magic. Set against the backdrop of the beautiful city of Venice, fans of Indiana Jones and Robert Langdon will find a new favorite in Dr. Penelope Bryne, an anxiety-riddled academic. She’s fascinated with the city of Atlantis, much to the chagrin of her father and the academic community, and has devoted her life’s study to unlocking its secrets.
In The Immortal City, book one in the series, an ancient and mysterious script is found at a murder site with possible clues to the lost city of Atlantis. Determined to learn more, she agrees to help the police before the killer strikes again, and she heads to Venice in search of answers.
There she meets the enigmatic Alexis Donato, who challenges everything she thought she ever knew about Atlantis. As Alexis draws her into a dark and seductive world of magic and murder, Penelope will have to use her heart as well as her head to find the answers she seeks. With Carnivale in full swing, and time running out, Alexis and Penelope must work together to stop the killer and prevent a dark magic from pulling Venice into the sea.
Look how pretty it is I am dying!!! Also that's not even the BEST news...DIGITAL ARCS (Advanced Reader Copies) and the pre-order are also available! Whoop whoop!
Book reviewers and bloggers interested in reviewing the book may request a digital ARC of The Immortal City. ARCs are available through NetGalley and at the publisher’s website .
The Immortal City releases on September 19, 2019 in hardcover, trade softcover, and ebook. Preorder is currently available from select retailers.
Now I can finally talk about it let's talk about the inspiration behind the Magicians of Venice Series (don't worry there's no spoilers):
The Magicians of Venice is a three-book series and is the culmination of many weird pieces of ancient history and personal passions finally coming together.
I’ve always loved characters like Indiana Jones and Robert Langdon, but I wanted to write a story that turned the adventurer archaeologist trope on its head. It was important to me to create a female character that is not an oversexualised, badass Lara Croft figure. My character, Penelope Bryne, is an anxiety-ridden academic refusing to give up on the impossible dream of discovering Atlantis and who continues to be brave despite her failings.
I’ve always loved the legends and theories behind Atlantis and continue to this day to follow any new discoveries that might pertain to it. I wanted to play with some of the legends and mash them up with my own ideas and love of magicians, creating a story about survivors who become close to immortal because of the powerful blast that destroyed the island kingdom.
If there was ever a place that is so impossible and beautiful and could make you believe it was founded by magicians, it’s Venice. Even though my Venice obviously has many fantasy aspects, I wanted to ensure current issues were correctly portrayed especially concerning global warming, the MOSE project, the problem with cruise ships, and the impact that tourism has on the city.
While The Immortal City (book one) is mainly a magical, murder mystery, Sea of the Dead (book two) and The King’s Seal (book three) have a treasure hunt feel. As a student of ancient history, I’ve studied the Dead Sea Scrolls, and I knew about the discovery of a new cave in 2017 and was determined to write it into my book. There is still a lot of mystery surrounding the scrolls, and I wanted to play into that while incorporating my own magical twist and theories of why the Essenes vanished.
I grew up on fairy tales and mythology, and wanted to not only write about a famous relic that I’ve always been fascinated with, but also one that mainstream entertainment hasn’t plundered, so Atlantis and other relics that pop up are going to be really unique.
Sounds amazing? Yes, it's going to be a hell of a ride and one that I'm sure many of you will get behind, and will fall in love with these new characters as much as I have! I'm so excited!
Don't forget to use this pre-order link, it's set up for you to just click on the link to your fave store so you don't need to go searching for it.
Ames x
March 21, 2019
The Immortal City Cover Reveal Day!
*ANNOUNCEMENT*
The Immortal City, Book 1 of The Magicians of Venice, is going to have its official cover reveal on the 9th of April!!! Eek! Cover party hurray!
Also, if any of you are book bloggers and would love to help me out, my awesome publishers, BHC Press, are hunting people to be a part of the Cover Reveal Day. They are also using it as an early call out for ARCs if you are interested in getting a copy. The Immortal City is about a female archaeologist and a magician hunting a serial killer in Venice. Theres murder, magicians, mystery, serial killers, Venice..all the good things in life (also a full description is below). If you are keen to help and get a sexy marketing package and an early ARC click on this link:
https://www.jotform.com/form/90795915...
Full Description:
In the heart of Venice, a woman is sacrificed to a forgotten god, sparking a mystery lost for thousands of years.
Dr. Penelope Bryne is ridiculed by the academic community for her quest to find the remnants of Atlantis, but when an ancient and mysterious script is found at a murder site, she flies to Venice determined to help the police before the killer strikes again.
Penelope has spent her entire life trying to ignore the unexplainable and magical history of Atlantis, but when she meets the enigmatic Alexis Donato, everything she believes will be challenged. Little does she know, Alexis has spent the last three years doing his best to sabotage Penelope’s career so doesn’t learn the truth—Atlantis had seven magicians who survived, and who he has a duty to protect.
As Alexis draws her into the darkly, seductive world of magic and history, Penelope will have to use her heart as well as her head if she is to find the answers she seeks.
With the new MOSE system due to come online, and Carnivale exploding around them, Penelope and Alexis will have to work together to stop the killer and prevent dark magic from pulling Venice into the sea.
The Immortal City, Book 1 of The Magicians of Venice, is going to have its official cover reveal on the 9th of April!!! Eek! Cover party hurray!
Also, if any of you are book bloggers and would love to help me out, my awesome publishers, BHC Press, are hunting people to be a part of the Cover Reveal Day. They are also using it as an early call out for ARCs if you are interested in getting a copy. The Immortal City is about a female archaeologist and a magician hunting a serial killer in Venice. Theres murder, magicians, mystery, serial killers, Venice..all the good things in life (also a full description is below). If you are keen to help and get a sexy marketing package and an early ARC click on this link:
https://www.jotform.com/form/90795915...
Full Description:
In the heart of Venice, a woman is sacrificed to a forgotten god, sparking a mystery lost for thousands of years.
Dr. Penelope Bryne is ridiculed by the academic community for her quest to find the remnants of Atlantis, but when an ancient and mysterious script is found at a murder site, she flies to Venice determined to help the police before the killer strikes again.
Penelope has spent her entire life trying to ignore the unexplainable and magical history of Atlantis, but when she meets the enigmatic Alexis Donato, everything she believes will be challenged. Little does she know, Alexis has spent the last three years doing his best to sabotage Penelope’s career so doesn’t learn the truth—Atlantis had seven magicians who survived, and who he has a duty to protect.
As Alexis draws her into the darkly, seductive world of magic and history, Penelope will have to use her heart as well as her head if she is to find the answers she seeks.
With the new MOSE system due to come online, and Carnivale exploding around them, Penelope and Alexis will have to work together to stop the killer and prevent dark magic from pulling Venice into the sea.
November 8, 2018
Kingdom PreOrder is Live!
Very excited to announce that KINGDOM, book 3 of The Blood Lake Chronicles, will be out on the 23rd of November! Hurray!
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2Qz3zfT
ITunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/id14...
Nook: https://bit.ly/2zFNops
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/au/en/ebook/king...
Forced back into a world of war, a reluctant king will return to take up his broken crown
Bleddyn is a man with secrets, but he can't outrun his past any longer. With Balthasar and Nimue in the clutches of his greatest enemy, he'll have to reclaim his birthright as the King of the Unseelie to save them. First, he'll have to recruit the formidable general Eirianwen to stand by his side, but his ex-fiancé isn't going to be won over so easily.
Eirianwen never thought she would see Bleddyn again and the woman he remembers died centuries ago. Only he can unite the scattered Unseelie in a final battle against the Autumn Queen, and as much as she hates it, Eirianwen knows she can't keep fighting alone. Bleddyn promises to get revenge for everything that was taken from her, but when the doors to the past are opened, neither one will be prepared for what comes out.
Rosa will do anything to get Balthasar back, and when Merlin makes a plan to recruit the Wild Hunt to their cause, there's nothing she won't do to secure their alliance. Making a bargain with a god is never a good idea, and her deal with Gwyn ap Nudd might end up costing Rosa more than she's willing to pay.
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2Qz3zfT
ITunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/id14...
Nook: https://bit.ly/2zFNops
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/au/en/ebook/king...
Forced back into a world of war, a reluctant king will return to take up his broken crown
Bleddyn is a man with secrets, but he can't outrun his past any longer. With Balthasar and Nimue in the clutches of his greatest enemy, he'll have to reclaim his birthright as the King of the Unseelie to save them. First, he'll have to recruit the formidable general Eirianwen to stand by his side, but his ex-fiancé isn't going to be won over so easily.
Eirianwen never thought she would see Bleddyn again and the woman he remembers died centuries ago. Only he can unite the scattered Unseelie in a final battle against the Autumn Queen, and as much as she hates it, Eirianwen knows she can't keep fighting alone. Bleddyn promises to get revenge for everything that was taken from her, but when the doors to the past are opened, neither one will be prepared for what comes out.
Rosa will do anything to get Balthasar back, and when Merlin makes a plan to recruit the Wild Hunt to their cause, there's nothing she won't do to secure their alliance. Making a bargain with a god is never a good idea, and her deal with Gwyn ap Nudd might end up costing Rosa more than she's willing to pay.
October 3, 2018
Late September/ October Update
Hey Everyone!
I apologise for the update being so late this time around but I have been writing non-stop to keep myself on these deadlines that keep popping up to shout at me.
First of all, if you didn't see my previous post, I have a new series out next with BHC Press! This is the Secret Project that I've been working away on in the background for the last year and a half, and the trilogy is called The Magicians of Venice. I worked really hard to find it a home, and guys, seriously, it's in great hands with BHC and I couldn't be happier. I'm so pumped about this project as they are the kind of books I've always dreamed about writing; archaeology, magic, Venice, ancient history, romance, creepy Hannibal field kabuki style murders...it really has it all. It's also given me a chance to play around with my fave archaeology mystery of all time...Atlantis. Yep, it's going to great. I'm currently doing drafts and edits of book two so I'm not around on social media much...it's all head down butt up to knock it into shape. I'll be posting loads more about it soon but in the mean time, you can go here to the BHC Press website and read more about book one, The Immortal City.
In other news for Blood Lake Chronicles fans, I have just this morning, finished a final draft of Kingdom. It's going to be sent off to my editors soon so expect a pre-order announcement by the end of the month. This book guys, it's been crazy hard to get together and I had to delete 70% of the first draft I wrote back in April and rewrite it in the last month. I won't go into spoilery details but it's been a hell of job to work with three main character story lines and not have the whole thing dissolve into a mess of faerie you know what. In my mind I've kind of been calling it Rosa and Merlin's Awesome Adventures in Faerie, but you will also see Bleddyn step up and play a big role in this one.
That being said...here is a cover and a blurb for you to oggle! HURRAY!
Bleddyn is a man with secrets, but he can’t outrun his past any longer. With Balthasar and Nimue in the clutches of his greatest enemy, he’ll have to reclaim his birthright as the King of the Unseelie to save them. First, he’ll have to recruit the formidable general Eirianwen to stand by his side, but his ex-fiancé isn’t going to be won over so easily.
Eirianwen never thought she would see Bleddyn again and the woman he remembers died centuries ago. Only he can unite the scattered Unseelie in a final battle against the Autumn Queen, and as much as she hates it, Eirianwen knows she can’t keep fighting alone. Bleddyn promises to get revenge for everything that was taken from her, but when the doors to the past are opened, neither one will be prepared for what comes out.
Rosa will do anything to get Balthasar back, and when Merlin makes a plan to recruit the Wild Hunt to their cause, there’s nothing she won’t do to secure their alliance. Making a bargain with a god is never a good idea, and her deal with Gwyn ap Nudd might end up costing Rosa more than she’s willing to pay.
Oh yeah...this one has it all happening. I've been super excited about writing about Gwyn ap Nudd and the Wild Hunt as they have always been favourites of mine. There is also quite a lot of a good looking, sweet as hell guy called Arthur who tags along for some adventures. You will also get a sneak peak at the end of the Aramis and Soren book I'm drafting between other projects. Also, soooo much fun to be writing.
Speaking of books, I've read some great ones in the past month. I feel like I have a never ending battle with my To Be Read pile while I try and draft but these ones have crept through.
Stars of Fortune- Nora Roberts
Full Disclaimer: I only read Nora Roberts paranormal books and I'm always surprised how much her covers never look like they are paranormal. In saying that I loved this book. A bunch of supernatural strangers thrown together to hunt stars hidden by Celtic Goddess? Yeah sign me up. It has a bevvy of paranormal goodies including a magician and a seer and I won't tell you what else because I'll spoil it. But seriously, if you love a good treasure hunt with a supernatural twist, check it out!
The next one I'm going to try not to gush all over you about is Grace Draven's newest, Phoenix Unbound. Okay, you guys know how much I love Grace's books but I'm absolutely loving this book. Fire magic? Hot take on fantasy Huns? Gladiators? Dragon myths? There is so much that is awesome about it. Grace writes the best fantasy romance because her world building is always so stunning and believable that the romance compliments the story, but it's by no means the only thing going on. It's a great epic fantasy and you can check it out here.
The final book I'm currently working my way through is The Tigress of Forli by Elizabeth Lev.
This is a non-fiction work about the Renaisance Bad Ass Lady, Caterina Sforza. You might recognise her as the woman who takes on the Borgias in the TV series but the truth is always more fascinating than fiction. Elizabeth Lev is a lively writer so it's by no means a dull history book. If you are after a read about a woman taking on the patriarchy of the day, and beating them like a drum, look no further. Grab a copy here.
Okay, this blog is huge so I'm going to get out of here. A final heads up...The Blood Lake Chronicles box set is going to be free this weekend here on Amazon so if you have been thinking about giving it a go, the time is now.
Ames x
I apologise for the update being so late this time around but I have been writing non-stop to keep myself on these deadlines that keep popping up to shout at me.
First of all, if you didn't see my previous post, I have a new series out next with BHC Press! This is the Secret Project that I've been working away on in the background for the last year and a half, and the trilogy is called The Magicians of Venice. I worked really hard to find it a home, and guys, seriously, it's in great hands with BHC and I couldn't be happier. I'm so pumped about this project as they are the kind of books I've always dreamed about writing; archaeology, magic, Venice, ancient history, romance, creepy Hannibal field kabuki style murders...it really has it all. It's also given me a chance to play around with my fave archaeology mystery of all time...Atlantis. Yep, it's going to great. I'm currently doing drafts and edits of book two so I'm not around on social media much...it's all head down butt up to knock it into shape. I'll be posting loads more about it soon but in the mean time, you can go here to the BHC Press website and read more about book one, The Immortal City.
In other news for Blood Lake Chronicles fans, I have just this morning, finished a final draft of Kingdom. It's going to be sent off to my editors soon so expect a pre-order announcement by the end of the month. This book guys, it's been crazy hard to get together and I had to delete 70% of the first draft I wrote back in April and rewrite it in the last month. I won't go into spoilery details but it's been a hell of job to work with three main character story lines and not have the whole thing dissolve into a mess of faerie you know what. In my mind I've kind of been calling it Rosa and Merlin's Awesome Adventures in Faerie, but you will also see Bleddyn step up and play a big role in this one.
That being said...here is a cover and a blurb for you to oggle! HURRAY!
Bleddyn is a man with secrets, but he can’t outrun his past any longer. With Balthasar and Nimue in the clutches of his greatest enemy, he’ll have to reclaim his birthright as the King of the Unseelie to save them. First, he’ll have to recruit the formidable general Eirianwen to stand by his side, but his ex-fiancé isn’t going to be won over so easily.
Eirianwen never thought she would see Bleddyn again and the woman he remembers died centuries ago. Only he can unite the scattered Unseelie in a final battle against the Autumn Queen, and as much as she hates it, Eirianwen knows she can’t keep fighting alone. Bleddyn promises to get revenge for everything that was taken from her, but when the doors to the past are opened, neither one will be prepared for what comes out.
Rosa will do anything to get Balthasar back, and when Merlin makes a plan to recruit the Wild Hunt to their cause, there’s nothing she won’t do to secure their alliance. Making a bargain with a god is never a good idea, and her deal with Gwyn ap Nudd might end up costing Rosa more than she’s willing to pay.
Oh yeah...this one has it all happening. I've been super excited about writing about Gwyn ap Nudd and the Wild Hunt as they have always been favourites of mine. There is also quite a lot of a good looking, sweet as hell guy called Arthur who tags along for some adventures. You will also get a sneak peak at the end of the Aramis and Soren book I'm drafting between other projects. Also, soooo much fun to be writing.
Speaking of books, I've read some great ones in the past month. I feel like I have a never ending battle with my To Be Read pile while I try and draft but these ones have crept through.
Stars of Fortune- Nora Roberts
Full Disclaimer: I only read Nora Roberts paranormal books and I'm always surprised how much her covers never look like they are paranormal. In saying that I loved this book. A bunch of supernatural strangers thrown together to hunt stars hidden by Celtic Goddess? Yeah sign me up. It has a bevvy of paranormal goodies including a magician and a seer and I won't tell you what else because I'll spoil it. But seriously, if you love a good treasure hunt with a supernatural twist, check it out!
The next one I'm going to try not to gush all over you about is Grace Draven's newest, Phoenix Unbound. Okay, you guys know how much I love Grace's books but I'm absolutely loving this book. Fire magic? Hot take on fantasy Huns? Gladiators? Dragon myths? There is so much that is awesome about it. Grace writes the best fantasy romance because her world building is always so stunning and believable that the romance compliments the story, but it's by no means the only thing going on. It's a great epic fantasy and you can check it out here.
The final book I'm currently working my way through is The Tigress of Forli by Elizabeth Lev.
This is a non-fiction work about the Renaisance Bad Ass Lady, Caterina Sforza. You might recognise her as the woman who takes on the Borgias in the TV series but the truth is always more fascinating than fiction. Elizabeth Lev is a lively writer so it's by no means a dull history book. If you are after a read about a woman taking on the patriarchy of the day, and beating them like a drum, look no further. Grab a copy here.
Okay, this blog is huge so I'm going to get out of here. A final heads up...The Blood Lake Chronicles box set is going to be free this weekend here on Amazon so if you have been thinking about giving it a go, the time is now.
Ames x
August 13, 2018
August Update
Hey Everyone,
It's been a while since I've done an update so I'll try not to make it too long.
The reason I've been so quiet on the blog and social media is that I'm under the pump to get a book finished and edited by November. It's a part of the Secret Project series that I can't talk about just yet (announcement will be soon I swear), so I'm up to my eye balls in research and drafts and generally trying to pull it together. For those who are like WTF I thought you working on a Aramis and Soren/ Firebird Fairytales World spin off book... Yes, I am. I'm about 40k words into it but its had to take a back seat while I finalise the other book. I've been able to write two books at once before, but the new series is different. It requires more space in my brain and more research to get right so I've put other books and uni on hiatus for a few months. It'll be worth it I swear!
If you follow my Facebook you would have seen that I'm currently at the Cover Design phase of KINGDOM, the third Blood Lake Chronicles book, and if all goes to plan it should be out in October/November. I'll make a more official announcement once I have a pre-order page up and passed the final edit/stressing stage. I'm really happy and excited how its come together!
What else?
I've managed to be dragged out of my writer cave and have been to two great exhibits in passed month; Wonderland at the ACMI and Vikings: Beyond the Legend. Both were fantastic and seeing how I'm obsessed with Alice (omg the costumes from Burton's movies were there and I almost died) and Vikings I was in heaven.
Also, check my freaking awesome Loki statue I got from the Vikings Exhibit as well as Rune Swag!
I highly recommend both exhibits if you happen to be in the Melbourne area.
Apart from working on the book, I've been taking the time (ie forcing myself) to self care and refill the creative well. A looming deadline can really throw out my creative process, work my anxiety into a frenzy and generally stir me up to a point where I can't focus on actual writing. This particular series is research heavy so I've spent some delightful hours on JSTOR, reading articles, following leads and making connections I never would have thought of without taking the time to immerse and enjoy myself.
In the reading department I finally finished my Sarah J Maas pile! I was actually really surprised how much I enjoyed Tower of Dawn. The world building was great and I really enjoyed the fantasy twist on the Huns that Maas created. Also yes, I AM in love Dothraki- Bae of the Skys a.k.a. Sartaq The Winged Prince. Hell, I even stopped hating Chaol in this one which surprised me. Catwoman has just come out and I'm already about half way through and enjoying Maas's take on Gotham.
The other series I'm obsessed with at the moment is Thea Harrison's Moonshadow series. If you like my Blood Lake Chronicles, and you are after more Celtic paranormal with an Arthurian twist I really recommend you check them out. To be honest you could go for any series of Thea Harrison and it would be worth it. I'm working my way through her whole catelogue at the moment and have loved everything (though Moonshadow and Dragon Bound have been my favourite).
OH. And I feel like I should mention here that I demolished 'Spinning Silver' by Naomi Novik. I have FEELINGS about this book. Like any book of hers, she just slays me. Her new takes on Russian mythology with this book and 'Uprooted' continues to leave me in awe and with serious impostor syndrome. I am shamelessly in love with the Staryk King, but seriously, a Winter Elf King who can do magic...its like it was made just for me to obsess over. I could write essays about this book but I wont. Please read it, and 'Uprooted' if you haven't already.
Okay guys that's about all I've got for you. I'm all head in the books at the moment and very unexciting. Fingers crossed I can break some awesome writing news to you all soon and then you get full enthusisatic Amy about the new series I'm so obsessed over that I'm literally incapable of thinking about anything else at the moment.
Ames x
It's been a while since I've done an update so I'll try not to make it too long.
The reason I've been so quiet on the blog and social media is that I'm under the pump to get a book finished and edited by November. It's a part of the Secret Project series that I can't talk about just yet (announcement will be soon I swear), so I'm up to my eye balls in research and drafts and generally trying to pull it together. For those who are like WTF I thought you working on a Aramis and Soren/ Firebird Fairytales World spin off book... Yes, I am. I'm about 40k words into it but its had to take a back seat while I finalise the other book. I've been able to write two books at once before, but the new series is different. It requires more space in my brain and more research to get right so I've put other books and uni on hiatus for a few months. It'll be worth it I swear!
If you follow my Facebook you would have seen that I'm currently at the Cover Design phase of KINGDOM, the third Blood Lake Chronicles book, and if all goes to plan it should be out in October/November. I'll make a more official announcement once I have a pre-order page up and passed the final edit/stressing stage. I'm really happy and excited how its come together!
What else?
I've managed to be dragged out of my writer cave and have been to two great exhibits in passed month; Wonderland at the ACMI and Vikings: Beyond the Legend. Both were fantastic and seeing how I'm obsessed with Alice (omg the costumes from Burton's movies were there and I almost died) and Vikings I was in heaven.
Also, check my freaking awesome Loki statue I got from the Vikings Exhibit as well as Rune Swag!
I highly recommend both exhibits if you happen to be in the Melbourne area.
Apart from working on the book, I've been taking the time (ie forcing myself) to self care and refill the creative well. A looming deadline can really throw out my creative process, work my anxiety into a frenzy and generally stir me up to a point where I can't focus on actual writing. This particular series is research heavy so I've spent some delightful hours on JSTOR, reading articles, following leads and making connections I never would have thought of without taking the time to immerse and enjoy myself.
In the reading department I finally finished my Sarah J Maas pile! I was actually really surprised how much I enjoyed Tower of Dawn. The world building was great and I really enjoyed the fantasy twist on the Huns that Maas created. Also yes, I AM in love Dothraki- Bae of the Skys a.k.a. Sartaq The Winged Prince. Hell, I even stopped hating Chaol in this one which surprised me. Catwoman has just come out and I'm already about half way through and enjoying Maas's take on Gotham.
The other series I'm obsessed with at the moment is Thea Harrison's Moonshadow series. If you like my Blood Lake Chronicles, and you are after more Celtic paranormal with an Arthurian twist I really recommend you check them out. To be honest you could go for any series of Thea Harrison and it would be worth it. I'm working my way through her whole catelogue at the moment and have loved everything (though Moonshadow and Dragon Bound have been my favourite).
OH. And I feel like I should mention here that I demolished 'Spinning Silver' by Naomi Novik. I have FEELINGS about this book. Like any book of hers, she just slays me. Her new takes on Russian mythology with this book and 'Uprooted' continues to leave me in awe and with serious impostor syndrome. I am shamelessly in love with the Staryk King, but seriously, a Winter Elf King who can do magic...its like it was made just for me to obsess over. I could write essays about this book but I wont. Please read it, and 'Uprooted' if you haven't already.
Okay guys that's about all I've got for you. I'm all head in the books at the moment and very unexciting. Fingers crossed I can break some awesome writing news to you all soon and then you get full enthusisatic Amy about the new series I'm so obsessed over that I'm literally incapable of thinking about anything else at the moment.
Ames x
June 13, 2018
Psst -Free Box Set Promo this weekend!
A quick heads up that both The Firebird Fairytales Boxset and The Western Wars Boxset will be Free on Amazon this weekend so its a perfect time to check them out and leave a review! They are also on Kindle Unlimited if you are a part of the program...Check out descriptions below x
The Firebird Fairytales is a fresh Nordic Paranormal Fantasy series that breathes new life into Ancient myth
Cry of the Firebird
Born on the crossroads between worlds Anya's Gate Keeper magic is buried under grief and rage until one fateful night a firebird hatches on her farm who is sharing its body with the fabled Prince Yvan. With Yvan's dark magician brother Vasilli and other powerful enemies closing in around them, Anya has no choice but to sober up, follow Yvan into Skazki and hope that she can learn how to control her awakening magic before it destroys her and any hope of keeping the gates to both world's safe.
Ashes of the Firebird
Branded as Rogues and hunted by the supernatural world Anya and her companions flee to Budapest, a place of new allies where they will be safe. They begin the search for Yanka, Anya's ancestor and the only person in history with enough power to change the tide of the brewing war. Her relationship with the Thanatos Trajan is made complicated when he accidently feeds off her and trouble finds them when Aleksandra saves mysterious demon hunter Mychal from an attack, bringing new monsters and threats to Anya's door.
Rise of the Firebird
Travelling from the battlefields of Skazki to the Underworld of Tuonela, Anya and her companions encounter the vicious dark goddess Louhi and gain two magician's, the mad hero Kullervo and Eldon Blaise - apprentice of Merlin himself. As devastating secrets of history and the heart are revealed, Anya must fight the darkness within her and rise up to be a symbol for the Neutral rebel army that rallies under the banner of the firebird. Ready to restore the balance at any price, the final battle of the three armies will shape the worlds forever.
Free Here
The Western Wars is an epic fantasy series with loads of adventure, magic and romance
Eastern Gods - Book One
'Come to me and I'll whisper secrets that will shake the worlds. '
When a spy from the mysterious Eastlands is caught in his kingdom, Haldirian is sent to the only reliable scholar of the East left on the continent of Elindor. With her help, he's determined to stop the fear of war spreading, but as the first female heir in history, highly intelligent and carrying a warrior swagger Aláenor isn't what Haldirian has learned to expect from royal princesses. But Aláenor isn't as confident as she appears as she's haunted by the memory of her dead mother and plagued by a man whispering in her nightmares.
The spy claims that Mordecai, dark magician and Emperor of the East sent him to scout their kingdoms for an invasion, but it's the threat of unknown magic that forces them to act. The West turned their back on magic hundreds of years ago, and they will have no way to stand against it if the mysterious Emperor decides to make war.
Together, Aláenor and Haldirian will journey to the other side of the world to learn the truth, but nothing is as it seems, and the East will reveal secrets to Aláenor that will shatter her world, question her loyalties, and forge her into the queen she must become.
The Golden Queen - Book Two
Scholar. Warrior. Lover. Queen.
Still recovering from her imprisonment in the Red Fortress, Aláenor travels to the northern city of Anan in search of new allies in her war against the Emperor Mordecai.
Anan has more than one surprise for Aláenor, and as she comes to terms with the magic awakening inside of her she will need Haldirian's support to make it back to the West.
Aláenor has been raised to believe that Mordecai's family line were traitors, but history is written by the winners and she will discover she has more in common with the enemy than she thinks.
Free Here
The Firebird Fairytales is a fresh Nordic Paranormal Fantasy series that breathes new life into Ancient myth
Cry of the Firebird
Born on the crossroads between worlds Anya's Gate Keeper magic is buried under grief and rage until one fateful night a firebird hatches on her farm who is sharing its body with the fabled Prince Yvan. With Yvan's dark magician brother Vasilli and other powerful enemies closing in around them, Anya has no choice but to sober up, follow Yvan into Skazki and hope that she can learn how to control her awakening magic before it destroys her and any hope of keeping the gates to both world's safe.
Ashes of the Firebird
Branded as Rogues and hunted by the supernatural world Anya and her companions flee to Budapest, a place of new allies where they will be safe. They begin the search for Yanka, Anya's ancestor and the only person in history with enough power to change the tide of the brewing war. Her relationship with the Thanatos Trajan is made complicated when he accidently feeds off her and trouble finds them when Aleksandra saves mysterious demon hunter Mychal from an attack, bringing new monsters and threats to Anya's door.
Rise of the Firebird
Travelling from the battlefields of Skazki to the Underworld of Tuonela, Anya and her companions encounter the vicious dark goddess Louhi and gain two magician's, the mad hero Kullervo and Eldon Blaise - apprentice of Merlin himself. As devastating secrets of history and the heart are revealed, Anya must fight the darkness within her and rise up to be a symbol for the Neutral rebel army that rallies under the banner of the firebird. Ready to restore the balance at any price, the final battle of the three armies will shape the worlds forever.
Free Here
The Western Wars is an epic fantasy series with loads of adventure, magic and romance Eastern Gods - Book One
'Come to me and I'll whisper secrets that will shake the worlds. '
When a spy from the mysterious Eastlands is caught in his kingdom, Haldirian is sent to the only reliable scholar of the East left on the continent of Elindor. With her help, he's determined to stop the fear of war spreading, but as the first female heir in history, highly intelligent and carrying a warrior swagger Aláenor isn't what Haldirian has learned to expect from royal princesses. But Aláenor isn't as confident as she appears as she's haunted by the memory of her dead mother and plagued by a man whispering in her nightmares.
The spy claims that Mordecai, dark magician and Emperor of the East sent him to scout their kingdoms for an invasion, but it's the threat of unknown magic that forces them to act. The West turned their back on magic hundreds of years ago, and they will have no way to stand against it if the mysterious Emperor decides to make war.
Together, Aláenor and Haldirian will journey to the other side of the world to learn the truth, but nothing is as it seems, and the East will reveal secrets to Aláenor that will shatter her world, question her loyalties, and forge her into the queen she must become.
The Golden Queen - Book Two
Scholar. Warrior. Lover. Queen.
Still recovering from her imprisonment in the Red Fortress, Aláenor travels to the northern city of Anan in search of new allies in her war against the Emperor Mordecai.
Anan has more than one surprise for Aláenor, and as she comes to terms with the magic awakening inside of her she will need Haldirian's support to make it back to the West.
Aláenor has been raised to believe that Mordecai's family line were traitors, but history is written by the winners and she will discover she has more in common with the enemy than she thinks.
Free Here
May 15, 2018
May Update
Hey Everyone,
Do you guys have months that are always out of control no matter how well you plan them? Every year it seems to my May. I had it all perfectly planned then it exploded and I'm running about like a head with its chicken cut off.
First things first...KINGDOM is DONE. Well, the first draft is anyway. Hurray! I'm currently reading through it, making lots of notes where I seem to have forgotten to write needed scenes and adding in descriptions that I left behind. Every book I write is different and KINGDOM has had its own set of challenges including an ending that wouldn't stop changing. Its on track to still be released at some point this year but I'm not committing to any date until I have a draft I'm happy with.
Speaking of releases, Eastern Gods will be out on the 30th of May. I'm not doing heaps of promo around it because it is a re-launch but the date is set, pre-order pages are up. The Golden Queen (book 2) is getting its final proofread completed and I should have a pre-order page up for it shortly. Ideally I'd like to release them both on the 30th but I'll see how I'm tracking. Before I forget...the paperback is not being released for another little while but I'll keep you updated on it. In their first draft format, these books were written before The Firebird Fairytales series (10+ years ago). This is why the discerning reader will pick up references to a particular magical wood mentioned in Rise of the Firebird that are the same trees in Eastern Gods.
Its taken me forever to get to a point that I'm comfortable sharing them but I feel like its time. It's a BIG world with lots of characters and potential for more stories in the future. It wraps up neatly but I've purposely left space for more books because it's such a fun world to play in. It is aimed at a young adult/ new adult audience but I've had lots of adult beta readers enjoy the series so check it out if you like adventurous, epic fantasy with a fun bit of romance thrown in.
I've tentatively started writing book 2 of SECRET PROJECT which hopefully won't need to remain a secret much longer. I'm trying to clear my editing plate before I really sink my teeth into it because this particular series always takes longer to write due to the research involved. Expect announcements in this space soon. Trust me, as soon as I get the green light I seriously won't be able to stop talking about it.
Stuff I'm Reading:
If you follow my social media you would've seen that I'm FINALLY catching up on my Sarah J Maas TBR pile.
I love both of her series and I've been about four books behind for a while now. I've smashed out the Court of Thorns and Roses series and now about to start the last two Throne of Glass. I've said it before but I really wish these books were around when I was a teenager. I got so sick of only reading fantasy books with male protagonists that I decided to write my own series...and The Western Wars series was born. I can't wait to get stuck into Throne of Glass...Aelin is my fave!
My obsession with L.H.Cosway is continuing this month as I get stuck into this beauty. I'm not a huge contemporary romance fan but I seriously love her books. Not only are they hot (so hot) they are HILARIOUS and all of the characters seem like people you could hang out with that have relatable problems. I'm a sucker for a man with a stringed instrument so I'm enjoying the hell out this one.
Thats all from me for the moment, but I'll put up another update if I get any newsworthy news.
Ames xo
Do you guys have months that are always out of control no matter how well you plan them? Every year it seems to my May. I had it all perfectly planned then it exploded and I'm running about like a head with its chicken cut off.
First things first...KINGDOM is DONE. Well, the first draft is anyway. Hurray! I'm currently reading through it, making lots of notes where I seem to have forgotten to write needed scenes and adding in descriptions that I left behind. Every book I write is different and KINGDOM has had its own set of challenges including an ending that wouldn't stop changing. Its on track to still be released at some point this year but I'm not committing to any date until I have a draft I'm happy with.
Speaking of releases, Eastern Gods will be out on the 30th of May. I'm not doing heaps of promo around it because it is a re-launch but the date is set, pre-order pages are up. The Golden Queen (book 2) is getting its final proofread completed and I should have a pre-order page up for it shortly. Ideally I'd like to release them both on the 30th but I'll see how I'm tracking. Before I forget...the paperback is not being released for another little while but I'll keep you updated on it. In their first draft format, these books were written before The Firebird Fairytales series (10+ years ago). This is why the discerning reader will pick up references to a particular magical wood mentioned in Rise of the Firebird that are the same trees in Eastern Gods.
Its taken me forever to get to a point that I'm comfortable sharing them but I feel like its time. It's a BIG world with lots of characters and potential for more stories in the future. It wraps up neatly but I've purposely left space for more books because it's such a fun world to play in. It is aimed at a young adult/ new adult audience but I've had lots of adult beta readers enjoy the series so check it out if you like adventurous, epic fantasy with a fun bit of romance thrown in.I've tentatively started writing book 2 of SECRET PROJECT which hopefully won't need to remain a secret much longer. I'm trying to clear my editing plate before I really sink my teeth into it because this particular series always takes longer to write due to the research involved. Expect announcements in this space soon. Trust me, as soon as I get the green light I seriously won't be able to stop talking about it.
Stuff I'm Reading:
If you follow my social media you would've seen that I'm FINALLY catching up on my Sarah J Maas TBR pile.
I love both of her series and I've been about four books behind for a while now. I've smashed out the Court of Thorns and Roses series and now about to start the last two Throne of Glass. I've said it before but I really wish these books were around when I was a teenager. I got so sick of only reading fantasy books with male protagonists that I decided to write my own series...and The Western Wars series was born. I can't wait to get stuck into Throne of Glass...Aelin is my fave!
My obsession with L.H.Cosway is continuing this month as I get stuck into this beauty. I'm not a huge contemporary romance fan but I seriously love her books. Not only are they hot (so hot) they are HILARIOUS and all of the characters seem like people you could hang out with that have relatable problems. I'm a sucker for a man with a stringed instrument so I'm enjoying the hell out this one.
Thats all from me for the moment, but I'll put up another update if I get any newsworthy news.
Ames xo
April 15, 2018
April Update
Greetings from crazy writer land,
I am on the last 10-15k words of KINGDOM and I am super fried but trying to end strong. It has come together in a weird and wonderful way that I didn't plan for but somehow works better. This always seems to happen, my writing structural plan more or less hits its original high points but how I get to them always happens in a random organic fashion. I've learnt not to stress too much when things go a bit haywire but I tell you, sometimes its hard to relinquish control. It's fairly different from the other two of The Blood Lake Chronicles as most of the action takes place in Faerie, where we learn HEAPS about the Seren Du family origins and all sorts of shenanigans happens. I'm going to be a little bit (a lot) nuts by the time that it is done but I'm feeling good about it so thats a good sign. I do have plenty of the usual impostor syndrome voices going on but trying to do my best not to feed that troll.
The writer brain and anxiety has been a lot less this time around because I am simply managing my shit better. 'My shit' being my mental health in this case. I'm pretty new to yoga (only been practicing for about 10 months) but its seriously helping me keep calm and also provides a good way for my to untangle plots while I move. Sitting still is really hard for me so the concept of a moving meditation has done me wonders. I highly recommend Allie- The Journey Junkie on Youtube if you are a newbie and want to learn some yoga. Shes a great teacher and the online community is a good support. I also have had my first go of a sensory deprivation tank this month and I can't recommend it enough. I love a long bath and this was the bath experience heightened to perfection. I'm big on meditation and this gave me the deep calm of a really good meditation session. It helped clear a lot of the screaming in my head and general feelings of being over whelmed that comes with tying up a book.
Speaking of books (and this is SO overdue) but I have decided that I am going to do a relaunch of my Western Wars series. So, some of you might remember last year I ran a promo through Kindle Scout for a YA fantasy called 'Eastern Gods'...it didnt get picked up and I did release it as per the Kindle Scout rules, but then I took it down again after a month. WHY you might be asking? Well, a few reasons, some professional, some personal, but mainly I wanted to get it re-edited with US grammar (I'm Aussie so our grammar is different) and also I wanted to release it with the second book. The second book needed to be edited heavily and when I came to do it last August I was just too burnt out and wanted to throw the whole lot into a fire. Last year, I was mentally and emotionally burnt a lot and its taken me nearly 8 months to bounce back. Anyway, book 2 has sat there until the last month when I got some sound advice from a friend who really believes in the series (hey Kathryn) and convinced me to suck it up, do the work and get it released. As a result of this lecture, I have been doing edits on the second book when I've needed a break from KINGDOM. It's come together in a way that I'm finally happy with which is great, and while it does need to go off to the line editor, both books are scheduled to be released digitally this year. For a paperback edition I'd like to combine the books as it is one continuous story, but I'll keep you all posted on that. They are written in a different sort of style to my other books (they are epic fantasy after all) but I hope you will enjoy them if they sound like your thing.
The good news is it means you'll definitely get three books out of me this year; Eastern Gods, The Golden Queen, and KINGDOM. I don't know if the Mychal spin off book will be ready to go as it still needs a bit of re-writing and perfecting but I want to try and do this work as a palate cleanser between KINGDOM and the starting of book 2 of NEW SECRET PROJECT.
I'm sure there is other stuff I'm forgetting to add in this update, but I'm too off in writer land to remember everything at the moment. I'm sporadically on social media but mostly hiatusing until the book is finished.
See you on the other side,
Amy x
I am on the last 10-15k words of KINGDOM and I am super fried but trying to end strong. It has come together in a weird and wonderful way that I didn't plan for but somehow works better. This always seems to happen, my writing structural plan more or less hits its original high points but how I get to them always happens in a random organic fashion. I've learnt not to stress too much when things go a bit haywire but I tell you, sometimes its hard to relinquish control. It's fairly different from the other two of The Blood Lake Chronicles as most of the action takes place in Faerie, where we learn HEAPS about the Seren Du family origins and all sorts of shenanigans happens. I'm going to be a little bit (a lot) nuts by the time that it is done but I'm feeling good about it so thats a good sign. I do have plenty of the usual impostor syndrome voices going on but trying to do my best not to feed that troll.
The writer brain and anxiety has been a lot less this time around because I am simply managing my shit better. 'My shit' being my mental health in this case. I'm pretty new to yoga (only been practicing for about 10 months) but its seriously helping me keep calm and also provides a good way for my to untangle plots while I move. Sitting still is really hard for me so the concept of a moving meditation has done me wonders. I highly recommend Allie- The Journey Junkie on Youtube if you are a newbie and want to learn some yoga. Shes a great teacher and the online community is a good support. I also have had my first go of a sensory deprivation tank this month and I can't recommend it enough. I love a long bath and this was the bath experience heightened to perfection. I'm big on meditation and this gave me the deep calm of a really good meditation session. It helped clear a lot of the screaming in my head and general feelings of being over whelmed that comes with tying up a book.
Speaking of books (and this is SO overdue) but I have decided that I am going to do a relaunch of my Western Wars series. So, some of you might remember last year I ran a promo through Kindle Scout for a YA fantasy called 'Eastern Gods'...it didnt get picked up and I did release it as per the Kindle Scout rules, but then I took it down again after a month. WHY you might be asking? Well, a few reasons, some professional, some personal, but mainly I wanted to get it re-edited with US grammar (I'm Aussie so our grammar is different) and also I wanted to release it with the second book. The second book needed to be edited heavily and when I came to do it last August I was just too burnt out and wanted to throw the whole lot into a fire. Last year, I was mentally and emotionally burnt a lot and its taken me nearly 8 months to bounce back. Anyway, book 2 has sat there until the last month when I got some sound advice from a friend who really believes in the series (hey Kathryn) and convinced me to suck it up, do the work and get it released. As a result of this lecture, I have been doing edits on the second book when I've needed a break from KINGDOM. It's come together in a way that I'm finally happy with which is great, and while it does need to go off to the line editor, both books are scheduled to be released digitally this year. For a paperback edition I'd like to combine the books as it is one continuous story, but I'll keep you all posted on that. They are written in a different sort of style to my other books (they are epic fantasy after all) but I hope you will enjoy them if they sound like your thing.
The good news is it means you'll definitely get three books out of me this year; Eastern Gods, The Golden Queen, and KINGDOM. I don't know if the Mychal spin off book will be ready to go as it still needs a bit of re-writing and perfecting but I want to try and do this work as a palate cleanser between KINGDOM and the starting of book 2 of NEW SECRET PROJECT.
I'm sure there is other stuff I'm forgetting to add in this update, but I'm too off in writer land to remember everything at the moment. I'm sporadically on social media but mostly hiatusing until the book is finished.
See you on the other side,
Amy x
March 22, 2018
March Update
I'm running a bit late this month with the update but I am here! Finally!
Last month was HUGE both professionally and personally. I spent time as no #1 in respective Amazon categories for both Wylt and Cry of the Firebird which has brought many more readers into the Firebird Fairy tales world - Welcome! As always, I'm crazy grateful for everyone who buys, reads and reviews my books. I wouldn't be doing this without you!
Okay, to the stuff:
Work on KINGDOM is progressing at a fast pace. Now that I'm on a uni break and have locked away other projects and distractions (social media has been cut WAY back), I'm really hitting the word count hard. I'm about to hit the half way mark which is exciting and nerve wracking as I tie up a bunch of story arcs. It's been fun refreshing myself in Celtic myths and experimenting with different gods and characters. I've always found writing the Blood Lake Chronicles to be so therapeutic to my writer brain and this one is shaping up to be no different.
While I cant say anything too much, my SUPER SECRET UNNAMED PROJECT that I spent most of last year working on is almost ready to announce. SO much exciting stuff happening that I cant wait to tell you all about. I can say that it is based in a different 'world' to the Firebird / Blood Lake books which is exciting and nerve wracking but omg guys, I am so in love with it and I hope you will be too. At this stage its got three books planned (yeah I seem to move in threes, I know) and once KINGDOM is wrapped up I can really throw myself into it. Eek.
What I've been reading:
L.H. Cosway!! Guys. Why didn't you tell me the HEART series existed?? I mean illusionists and fire eaters? Hot romance? Engaging plots? GUYS WITH TATS. I read the first one Six of Hearts in a single sitting and consumed book two Hearts of Fire straight afterward. They were AMAZING and highly recommend if you are after a romance.
Check them out HERE.
I had to 'rest' the series because I seriously wasn't getting anything done. Definitely an author I'll binge read as soon as KINGDOM is sorted.
The Cruel Prince by Holly Black - Okay. I will be the first to admit I'm not on a YA fantasy bender at
the moment (I tend to go through stages) but I've waited ages to get my hands on this one. Holly writes incredible dark fairy worlds and this reverse changelings of humans raised in Faerie is no exception. There were things I really loved about it (the Court, general world building) and things that I felt a bit meh over, namely the many bullying scenes and highschool vibe in some sections. I fully understand its target market is YA but as someone who hated school and was bullied a lot it got old for me quick. The main story arc and character development is really great and you can tell that the series is gearing up for something BIG which will ultimately keep me reading. Definitely in the 'introduction to a bigger story arc' book category for me because I was only really getting into it before it was over.
Next on the reading list is Elizabeth Hunter's new one INK, which might have to wait til next weekend bec
ause she is a writer I DON'T STOP READING once I start. A book store and tattoos in one book? Yeah I'm so not going to put it down. Also, this is clearly a sign I need another tattoo...Right? In all seriousness, give her a shot if you are after solid storylines with awesome world building. Her Irin Chronicles? Seriously don't even get me started on how much I love them.
Check her out HERE
Okay so that's all for me for the moment, go watch Black Panther if you haven't already, it was fantastic. Also, expect me talking about Tomb Raider next update because I CAN'T WAIT for the new film to be released....Amy x
Last month was HUGE both professionally and personally. I spent time as no #1 in respective Amazon categories for both Wylt and Cry of the Firebird which has brought many more readers into the Firebird Fairy tales world - Welcome! As always, I'm crazy grateful for everyone who buys, reads and reviews my books. I wouldn't be doing this without you!
Okay, to the stuff:
Work on KINGDOM is progressing at a fast pace. Now that I'm on a uni break and have locked away other projects and distractions (social media has been cut WAY back), I'm really hitting the word count hard. I'm about to hit the half way mark which is exciting and nerve wracking as I tie up a bunch of story arcs. It's been fun refreshing myself in Celtic myths and experimenting with different gods and characters. I've always found writing the Blood Lake Chronicles to be so therapeutic to my writer brain and this one is shaping up to be no different.
While I cant say anything too much, my SUPER SECRET UNNAMED PROJECT that I spent most of last year working on is almost ready to announce. SO much exciting stuff happening that I cant wait to tell you all about. I can say that it is based in a different 'world' to the Firebird / Blood Lake books which is exciting and nerve wracking but omg guys, I am so in love with it and I hope you will be too. At this stage its got three books planned (yeah I seem to move in threes, I know) and once KINGDOM is wrapped up I can really throw myself into it. Eek.
What I've been reading:
L.H. Cosway!! Guys. Why didn't you tell me the HEART series existed?? I mean illusionists and fire eaters? Hot romance? Engaging plots? GUYS WITH TATS. I read the first one Six of Hearts in a single sitting and consumed book two Hearts of Fire straight afterward. They were AMAZING and highly recommend if you are after a romance.
Check them out HERE.
I had to 'rest' the series because I seriously wasn't getting anything done. Definitely an author I'll binge read as soon as KINGDOM is sorted.
The Cruel Prince by Holly Black - Okay. I will be the first to admit I'm not on a YA fantasy bender at
the moment (I tend to go through stages) but I've waited ages to get my hands on this one. Holly writes incredible dark fairy worlds and this reverse changelings of humans raised in Faerie is no exception. There were things I really loved about it (the Court, general world building) and things that I felt a bit meh over, namely the many bullying scenes and highschool vibe in some sections. I fully understand its target market is YA but as someone who hated school and was bullied a lot it got old for me quick. The main story arc and character development is really great and you can tell that the series is gearing up for something BIG which will ultimately keep me reading. Definitely in the 'introduction to a bigger story arc' book category for me because I was only really getting into it before it was over. Next on the reading list is Elizabeth Hunter's new one INK, which might have to wait til next weekend bec
ause she is a writer I DON'T STOP READING once I start. A book store and tattoos in one book? Yeah I'm so not going to put it down. Also, this is clearly a sign I need another tattoo...Right? In all seriousness, give her a shot if you are after solid storylines with awesome world building. Her Irin Chronicles? Seriously don't even get me started on how much I love them.Check her out HERE
Okay so that's all for me for the moment, go watch Black Panther if you haven't already, it was fantastic. Also, expect me talking about Tomb Raider next update because I CAN'T WAIT for the new film to be released....Amy x
