Shadow of Betrayal by Brett Battles

About the Author:

Brett Battles lives in Los Angeles and is the author of two acclaimed novels in the Jonathan Quinn series: The Cleaner, which was nominated for a Barry Award for Best Thriller and a Shamus Award for Best First Novel, and The Deceived, which was nominated for a Barry Award for Best Thriller. He is at work on the fourth book in the series.

You can visit Brett Battles online at http://brettbattles.com/

About the Book:

The meeting place was carefully chosen: an abandoned church in rural Ireland just after dark. For Jonathan Quinn—a freelance operative and professional “cleaner”—the job was only to observe. If his cleanup skills were needed, it would mean things had gone horribly wrong. But an assassin hidden in a tree assured just that. And suddenly Quinn had four dead bodies to dispose of and one astounding clue—to a mystery that is about to spin wildly out of control.

Three jobs, no questions. That was the deal Quinn had struck with his client at the Office. Unfortunately for him, Ireland was just the first. Now Quinn, along with his colleague and girlfriend—the lethal Orlando—has a new assignment touched off by the killings in Ireland. Their quarry is a U.N. aide worker named Marion Dupuis who has suddenly disappeared from her assignment in war-torn Africa. When Quinn finally catches a glimpse of her, she quickly flees, frantic and scared. And not alone.

For Quinn the assignment has now changed. Find Marion Dupuis, and the child she is protecting, and keep them from harm. If it were only that easy.

Soon Quinn and Orlando find themselves in a bunker in the California hills, where Quinn will unearth a horrifying plot that is about to reach stage critical for a gathering of world leaders—and an act of terror more cunning, and more insidious, than anyone can guess.

Fast, smart, sleek, and stunning, Shadow of Betrayal is vintage Brett Battles: a gritty, gripping masterpiece of suspense, a thriller that makes the pulse pound—and stirs the heart as well.

I was lucky enough to get the author to agree to an interview. This is what he answered:

Could you please tell us a little about your book?

Quinn had previously promised his primary client that he would do three jobs without any questions to pay them back for help they gave him when he was working on a private matter. In Shadow of Betrayal, those jobs markers are called in. Quinn finds himself looking for a woman who is traveling with a child not her own, and not knowing why until a larger conspiracy begins to be revealed. It’s a conspiracy that reaches into many levels of the U.S. government, and threatens the stability of not only the United States, but also of several of its closest allies.

What cause are you most passionate about and why?

Two causes are very dear to my heart. One would be the treatment of people with special needs, specifically Down Syndrome, as my own son was born with Downs. And the advocacy of adoption. Adoption has played a large role in my family, both extended and immediate. It’s a wonderful thing for all involved.

In the last year have you learned or improved on any skills?

I hope so. I hope that I’m constantly doing that. That each book ends up being better than the last because of my desire to always get better.

Who has influenced you throughout your career as a writer?

There have been so many, of course. Our best teachers as writers are the books we read, and, therefore, the authors who have written them. For me it’s been authors like Graham Greene, Robert Ludlum, Alistair MacLean, John le Carre, Stephen King, Robert Heinlein, and so many others. I was also very influenced by the late author William Relling, Jr. Not so much for what he wrote, but because he was my mentor and my friend, and helped me to constantly work at improving my craft.

What are you currently working on?

I’m actually working on several projects at once, each at a different stage. I’m finishing up the revisions on the next Quinn adventure. I’m in the planning stages on the Quinn adventure I’ll start writing in the fall, and I’m working on a story outside the series, though not quite sure when that one will be done.

You know the scenario – you’re stuck on an island. What book would you bring with you and why?

Okay, the smart move would be to take something like The Ultimate Survival Guide, but who needs to know how to stay alive? You want to be entertained! Me, I’d probably take something like Stephen King’s The Stand. It’s an excellent, lengthy read, and when you’re done it would probably make a handy hammer.

What is the most important lesson you have learned from life so far?

That what keeps us alive is the desire to keep learning.

What is your favorite past-time?

I love to travel. I love going to places I’ve never been and returning to places I’ve spent a lot of time at. Probably my favorite thing is to go someplace that is truly different from where I grew up. Everything becomes fascinating there, even down to how they cross the street or package their gum. Put me on a plane heading almost anywhere and I’m happy. Put me on a plane as it’s pulling up to the arrival gate so I don’t have to experience the multiple hours in the air, I’m even happier!

Save the Best For Last by Kim Hanks

About the Author:

Kim Hanks is the author of Save The Best For Last, a fantasy adventure debut from the author! Critics have compared this book to an example of hugely popular genres and reality in the novelists craft and have described it as a strong, good, and multi layered fantasy adventure written with a hand that is both sure and light.

Kim has a full time job and is a graduate of Cambridge International College with a degree in Human Resource Management. He lives in Dubai.

For more information please visit his website at http://www.kimhanks.net/

About the Book:

Zwick Lamps, a secret admirer to Whitney Barnes, got targeted by a genius son of the past evil family that had lived in Green Oasis Town. However, it was once before that Zwick had finally discovered his supernatural powers that were only known by the isolated old woman Tabitha, a misfortuned lady whose husband died on their wedding day.

I was able to get Kim to agree to an interview. Here are his answers:

Could you please tell us a little about your book?

My novel save the best for last is a fantasy adventure saga; it's the first in the series. This book is set in Green Oasis Town. Zwick is the major character in the book; he had supernatural abilities that were only known by the unknown woman. He later becomes attracted to a girl who obviously wasn't destined to be with him. After experiencing the tragedy, Zwick had to do everything in his powers to stop history from repeating its self.

Who or what is the inspiration behind this book?

It was during a day dream when I got the aspect of this book unfolding in my minds; it only began with two characters. Immediately I knew this was a novel event as the idea continued pouring in visually. Despite of my literature back ground, by then I was also a creative writing student. So as a person who loved writing, this was the right time for me to take it on the professional level.

Who has influenced you throughout your career as a writer?

Apart from my creative teacher who encouraged me through it, several authors whose work I never miss up to now, like Stephen king, Jk Rowling, though their several other new authors whose work I enjoy reading these days, they have influenced me so much because I feel that spirit to work hard so that I can produce smart work similar to theirs.

What are you currently working on?

Right now, I'm working on the sequel of save the best for last and I have just finished two single title projects in the editing process.

Do you have any advice for writers or readers?

Believing in your work is vital to any author, if you don't trust it, nobody will. Keeping reading and don't forget to write something every day. It will help you to recognize advancements in your writing craft as you writing career goes on.

What do you feel sets this book apart from others in the same genre?

Frankly, anyone who like reading fantasy and those who enjoy cross genre books, I mean book with elements from other genres. Then my book is a must read for them because it lights logical and unforeseen twists and turns within its inherent concept.

What is your favorite past time?

When not writing or reading? Then obviously I will be attending acting classes which I only go for during my free time. But I'm no exception, I watch movies too, I like those drives around as well answering emails and meeting my friends relieves me.

Is there anything else you would like to share with us?

Yes! Anytime my book Save the Best For Last may appear on the silver screen as movie proposals have started coming in, but no deal has been confirmed.


WIN PRIZES!!!

SAVE THE BEST FOR LAST VIRTUAL BLOG TOUR '09 will officially begin on March 2 and end on March 31. You can visit Kim's blog stops at http://www.virtualbooktours.wordpress.com/ in March to find out more about this great book and talented author!As a special promotion for all our authors, Pump Up Your Book Promotion is giving away a FREE virtual book tour to a published author or a $50 Amazon gift certificate to those not published who comments on our authors' blog stops. More prizes will be announced as they become available.

Grayrider by Bruce Skye

About the Author:

A former technical writer, detail is important to Bruce Skye. His research for the Deathsong Chronicles included medieval armor and fortresses, as well as Celtic names and magic. "If you create a world, it must be consistent. And that's what I strive for Grayrider's world to be. I've built a database of material for each of the Deathsong Chronicles. Those databases aid me in keeping the world the same from book to book.

"When I wrote Grayrider, I followed the advice of Stephen King. I did not write the book following any sort of outline. I have no more idea than my readers do when I write a novel what will happen in the midst of the story. It makes it more exciting for both the readers and myself."

You can visit his website at http://www.bruceskye.com/.

About the Book:

Gabriel, the exiled king of Rivalin, comes before King Airell to warn him the Ansgarian army will invade his kingdom before the night is over. Airell tells him he has no one to send. Gabriel wants revenge for the murder of his family by the Ansgarians. He decides to fight the incursion without help.

As this takes place, Deirdre (Airell’s daughter), flees the kingdom of Cynyr north of Boadhagh. She knows now her mentor, Morrigan, created the Ansgarian army her father has fought for years. She goes south to warn him of her. Because Deirdre does not believe in herself, the young sorceress has difficulty in performing magic.

Once she is reunited with her father, she tells both he and Grayrider about Morrigan. Her power is growing; only Gabriel’s magical sword may yet destroy her. He must go to Cynyr to fight her. He agrees if Deirdre attends him, seeking her counsel. On that journey they fall in love and foil many efforts by Morrigan to kill Gabriel by both armies and sorcerers.

Grayrider fights Morrigan and sees his beloved slain by the sorceress before he is finally able to kill her. He returns to Rivalin brokenhearted. The ending is a complete surprise the reader will not expect at all.

I had the opportunity to ask Bruce some questions. Here's what he had to say:

Could you please tell us a little about your book?

Gabriel the Gray is a refugee king driven from his land by those who murdered his family. He is an exile in the kingdom of Boadhagh, helping in defending that land from the same army which invaded his own realm. To do that, he has a powerful magical sword known as Deathsong. The sword and its abilities scare him on occasion.

Did something specific happen to prompt you to write this book?

Being a writer has been a lifelong dream of mine. A divorce made me decide to finally begin to live out my own dreams.

Who or what is the inspiration behind this book?

I had a troubled childhood. The Grayrider character has been in my mind for years.

Who is your biggest supporter?

My fiancé. She pushed me to attempt to publish the book. She’s dying of cancer. And I dedicated the book to her.

Your biggest critic?

I am.

What cause are you most passionate about and why?

I fear radical Islam. I have studied Muslim terrorism and it truly frightens me.

In the last year have you learned or improved on any skills?

My writing has improved because I constantly work at it. My goal is to have every novel I publish be better than the last.

Do you have any rituals you follow when finishing a piece of work?

No.

Who has influenced you throughout your career as a writer?

Two writers have influenced my writing: Jack Higgins and J.R.R.Tolkien

What is the most important thing in your life right now?

Succeeding as an author.

What are you currently working on?

Grayrider is the first volume of the Deathsong Chronicles series. The second volume is finished and I hope for it to be published later this year. I’m working on the third book in the series now.

Do you have any advice for writers or readers?

For writers I suggest not to give up. Being published can be quite daunting. And there is much to know in doing it wisely. Find out everything you can before attempting self-publication.

Is there an author that inspired you to write?

Again, Jack Higgins.

What are some of your long term goals?

To have a New York Times bestseller.

What do you feel has been your greatest achievement as an author?

Writing suspenseful stories both reviewers and readers enjoy.

What do you feel is your biggest strength?

Having the humility to be willing to constantly learn and grow in my craft.

Biggest weakness?

The fear of failure.

What do you feel sets this book apart from others in the same genre?

This fantasy novel is actually a suspense story combined with sorcery, swordplay and romance. One reviewer wrote of Grayrider "I found that I could not put the book down."

You know the scenario – you’re stuck on an island. What book would you bring with you and why?

That is a difficult question!

Are you a different person now than you were 5 years ago?

Absolutely!

In what ways?

I’m certainly more mature and level-headed.

What is the most important lesson you have learned from life so far?

Never give up. If I had, Grayrider never would have been published.

Is there anything you regret doing/not doing?

I have yet to go skydiving, scuba diving and getting my sailplane license.

What is your favorite past-time?

Reading.

Is there anything else you would like to share with us?

I think the message I want Grayrider to give to people is not to give up, no matter the odds against you.

WIN PRIZES:

GRAYRIDER VIRTUAL BLOG TOUR '08 will officially begin on February 2 and end on February 27. You can visit Bruce's blog stops at http://www.virtualbooktours.wordpress.com/ in February to find out more about his new book!As a special promotion for all our authors, Pump Up Your Book Promotion is giving away a FREE virtual book tour to a published author or a $50 Amazon gift certificate to those not published who comments on our authors' blog stops. More prizes will be announced as they become available.

Steve Payette Book Spotlight and Author Interview

Book Synopsis:

Trevor Samuels is the main character in the novel "The Back of My Mind". He's investigating a series of arsons that have plagued Malone County over the past while. Trevor isn't the usual type of investigator, he dresses like a slob and relies on his sharp intellect and photographic memory to solve cases. Unfortunately for Trevor, he can't seem to crack the arsons. He can't figure out the motive, and he doesn't have any suspects. Enter Jesse, a fifteen-year-old Goth boy heavily involved in the underground cigarette market. At first Trevor pegs him as a freak, but the more he gets to know Jesse, the more he becomes convinced the arsons are related to contraband cigarette trafficking. Jesse leads Trevor through a seedy underworld, where he learns that the people he respects most may be involved. Join Trevor, Jesse and the seemingly unending array of unique characters they encounter while trying to solve a case that will either be the highlight of Trevor's career, or haunt him for the remainder of his days.

I was lucky enough to get Steven to answer a few questions for me. Here goes:

Who has influenced you throughout your career as a writer?

The author's whose books I never miss, being John Grisham, Stephen King, Dean Koontz, John Saul, Robin Cook, and Dan Brown.

Do you write every day?

No.

What has been your greatest achievement as a writer?

Completing the first novel!

Have you always wanted to be a writer, or did you aspire to be something else growing up?

I had no interest in being a writer. I just wanted to see if I could do it. Tried 15 yrs ago and couldn't. Tried again this year and could.

How would you describe your writing?

Easy to read mysteries, easy for all age groups to relate too.

Are you currently working on anything?

Just finished third novel in the series.

What authors do you enjoy reading?

See answer to question 1.

Is there a particular author/s (yourself excluded) who you feel don't get the recognition they deserve?

Many, many unknown, self-published authors.

What is your favorite book?

Odd Thomas, Dean Koontz

What is a book that has been highly acclaimed but you haven't liked?

Michael Chabon.

Is there a word you feel is overused?

No.

For more information on this, and other books by Steven Payette, please visit:

www.geocities.com/samuelstrevor/index