Welcome Author Carol Braswell!

A few announcements before we get to the main attraction: the Divine Destiny blog tour starts TODAY!!! From Monday the 16th to Monday the 23rd I will be visiting various blogs to promote DD! Make sure to check out the website for more information. And keep up on Facebook! 

Today I am so pleased to have my friend, Carol Braswell! Carol and I met at our East Texas RWA meetings and we've been author buds since. Her novel, Finding Amy, came out a couple days before Divine Destiny and it's been blowing up the Amazon boards since!!! YAY Carol!

Hi Carol! Please tell us about yourself and your life.

Thanks JoAnna for having me. I’m Carol Braswell and I’ve been writing all my life.  In the beginning I wrote about the cutie in my 7^th grade math class and then the handsome guy in my 8^th grade history. And so on until I finally met and married my soul mate. He is the most amazing man and can build or fix anything. I’m pretty much a dreamer and if I can dream it, he can build it. We love to travel, fish, and entertain the grandkids. Oh, did I mention he is 7 years younger than I am? Does that qualify me as a cougar?

Yes, it does! Go girl! As you know, This blog is all about "Giving Wings to Words". So when did you decide to spread your wings as an author?

In 2005 I started a story about being kidnapped from my office. Several read it and wanted me to finish. Thus was born When The Past Came Back. I was offered a contract in 2007 and it was published in 2008. But it wasn’t ready. I wasn’t ready. It was poorly written and had a bad editor. So I went back to learning the craft. I wrote the sequel to WTPCB and shoved it under the bed and started Finding Amy. By the time I became interested in self-publishing, my writing had improved but Finding Amy wasn’t finished. It took me two years to finish Finding Amy because I was discouraged and didn’t think it was good enough. Since its release, all comments have been positive, well except one and those errors have been corrected.   

I know I speak for everyone when I say, we are glad you persevered! That's a lesson to all authors. And now, you have an Amazon Best Seller!!! Tell us how this story came to be.

Several things happened that brought me to write Finding Amy. A few years ago I had to testify for a friend whose boss tried to hire him to kill a girlfriend. The only law agency that took him seriously was the Texas Rangers. Years later I read a news article about a man here in town that tried to hire someone to kill his wife and the story started to form. Standing in line at a deli a couple of days later, a very good-looking Texas Ranger walked up and waited for his turn. Something was telling me to write the story. My husband and I traveled to Glacier National Park and spent a week and then into Montana and Wyoming and I knew I wanted to write a story with those states in it. But it still needed something else. That’s when the twin sister tapped me on the shoulder. The leading lady couldn’t be married because she and the handsome Texas Ranger were going to get the hots for each other, so she had to have a sister so why not a twin?

Wow! I love the way that came together. You talk about the twin 'tapping you on the shoulder' so do all your characters speak to you? Do you have a favorite?

I love Amy’s motherly instinct and I would run away with Carson Garrett. Then the bad guy, Max, is such an idiot I have to laugh. But four-year-old Trish is the one who should be the star of the book. The scene I love the best is when Trish goes in to wake up her Aunt Amy, who, after a night of passionate sex has had four hours of sleep, she ask her niece, that is jumping on the bed, “Did you wake Carson up?” Trish giggled, “no, silly. He answered the door.” I laugh every time I read that scene.

Cute kid! What books have you read that made a difference in your life or your writing?

That’s easy. The only book that has made and impact on me is The Holy Bible. I must confess, I don’t read it enough. As far as reading today’s writers, it depends on what mood I’m in. I love mystery and James Patterson delivers. Comedy is one of favorites and Staci Hayes, (not published yet) Janet Evanovich, and Lilianna Hart will make me laugh. For young adult and paranormal my favorite are JoAnna Grace (of course) and Veronica Blade. I seldom pick a book strictly for romance (even though I’m an incurable romantic) but I do like Nora Roberts and Nicholas Sparks.

Aww!!! Thanks! I happen to be a fan of yours also!

If you could trade brains with any author, who would it be and why?

 I think I want Janet Evanovich’s brain. I love her humor and writing style. I would love to write comedy and have tried. I even bought a how-to book. My words just don’t come out funny. I can’t even tell a joke and make people laugh. Guess I’m just too serious. If there were a school I could take courses, I’d be the first in line.  

What is the weirdest thing that has happened to you since becoming a writer?

I’m too much of a lurker for weird things to happen to me but there was one incident that I remember well. I’m not a person who draws attention to myself. Deep down I’m sort of shy. I attended a conference that had several agents who were taking writers pitches. I didn’t sign up because none of the agents represented what I wrote. One of the agents did a speech and I was very impressed with her. I decided to introduce myself, give her a card and let her know she would be hearing from me. Took me several attempts before I approached her. After a very brief introduction, I walked away. Later, when she had a break, she sought me out and requested my full manuscript when it was finished. Finding Amy wasn’t finished and I never followed up. I had impressed her but was afraid she wouldn’t like it. So I didn’t send it.

Oh no! I can honestly say, I think things have worked out for you though! And there are so many faucets of the publishing industry, especially self-publishing. Tell me your favorite and least favorite thing about your journey so far.

With publishing it’s like I’m putting my baby out for the world to see and judge. It’s a thrill that happens every time one of my creations goes on sale. You can’t get it from any ride at 6Flags or the county fair. Will they love it as much as I do or will they hate it? You don’t know until you start getting feedback or reviews. I guess that’s what I dread (besides editing my own work) the most.

I agree 100%. It's a wild ride. Ok, now here's my random question: If you could spread your wings and fly away, where would you go and what would you do?

 Italy. I want to write a book based in another county and I am fascinated with that historical country. In my mind I picture couples making out in parks, on benches and men (and women) flirting openly with people passing by. I see Italy as a romantic city where people go to fall in love.   

Mmmm, makes me want to pack a bag. Carol, thanks so much for visiting with us. It's been a pleasure! I'm curious to know what is next for you? 

I was editing two books that I had shoved into a drawer but I have had so many of my fans yelling for another episode of Finding Amy. I think some who have read Finding Amy didn’t like Jamie very well. So in Saving Jamie she is going to change and everyone will love her. Maybe even more than Amy. I have the story outlined in my head, (I don’t use paper) and I can give you what I think will be the opening lin

"If you scream, I'll slit your throat."

That gave me chills! Your readers will be waiting with bated breath.

Want to get to know Carol? Check out CarolBraswell.com and find her on Facebook!

Get your copy of Finding Amy on Amazon. Don't wait, that's an order :)

Have a blessed week and be sure to check Facebook for daily updates on the blog tour leading up to my Release Party this Saturday! 

Lovingly, 

Jo 

Book Signing & Tour!

Divine Destiny is Out!

August 27th was the official release date and it's been a trip since then! It's the room spinning? Because I feel dizzy. You have been sending me emails, leaving reviews and comments about how much you like the book AND IT'S AWESOME!!! Thank you so much!

If you still need to get your copy:

You have options! And don't we all love options?
Ebook: Amazon.com, B&N, Smashwords (Kobo, Sony, etc.) and coming to the Apple iBooks store
Print: Amazon, Signed: My Website or in person at one of the following signings:

Book Signings Ahead!

Saturday, September 21st 4-6PM in Lindale at the RELEASE PARTY! The Fatt Apple Catering is hosting this event and it is sure to be a great time.

Blog Tour!

I will be visiting various blogs from September 16-23. Drop by to see interviews, read reviews, win freebies and much more! Details will be on my website. Updates will be on Facebook!

Recommended Read:

 

Finding Amy by Carol Braswell

When Texas Ranger, Carson Garrett is assigned to locate and place in protective custody the wife of a man suspected of illegal activities with a Columbian drug lord, it turns into more than routine. The estranged husband has put out a hit on his wife and the only person who knows where she is hiding is her twin sister, Amy Summers.
It is a race against time for Carson to find Amy, convince her of the imminent danger and get her to lead him to Jamie so he can escort both women and Jamie’s four-year-old child back to Texas.
Besides the obvious problems of running from a man who is trying to kill them, Carson and Amy have an instant attraction to each other and it is clouding his usual sharp judgment and causing them both to make costly mistakes. 

 Carol will be my guest on Monday!!!

Thank you...

To everyone who has read and commented on Divine Destiny! I'm blessed all the time with your words of encouragement. Please continue to write reviews on Amazon and Goodreads. I do appreciate them.

Don't forget to sign up for my Newsletter! Thanks! 

Until next time, 

Lovingly, 

Jo

It's here! It's here!

Divine Destiny's official release date is just across the weekend. I'm so excited I can't stand it! And because I adore everyone who supports me, I'm opening up the virtual signing early! Woohoo!

You can now visit the Virtual Signing page of my website and order your first edition signed copy of Divine Destiny!

Come Party With Me!

 Want to meet the author or just catch up in person?

Make plans to attend my release party! Saturday, September 21st from 4-6(ish) at The Fat Apple Catering in Downtown Lindale. Darla and her staff are excited about their additions and what better place to celebrate? Divine Destiny will be for purchase and I would love to sign it for ya. Please shoot me an email to RSVP so that Darla can make sure we have enough food and I can make sure we have enough books! Food, Books and Fun- What else do you need?

Get Lost In A Story is hosting my release day event on 8/27. Please stop by and say hello! Learn one of my secret fears- you might just laugh. Everyone who comments will be entered to win a FREE ebook! Then on September 16 Bewitching Book Tours will be hosting me for a week long blog tour! More details to come!

I am So excited about this release! Have I mentioned that yet? LOL! Avery and Ryse have waited for a long time, but now their story can be told. Here is a little teaser!

In this scene Avery and her Shadow Lady, Nikki, are walking through the gardens to exercise her dogs and allow some thinking time. Avery meets the Grand Deity, the top of the Olympian food chain on earth. Keep in mind that Avery is betrothed to his son but has feelings for Ryse.
I hope you love Troy as much as I do!
Lovingly,
Jo
 

*******************************************************************

Nikki followed Avery outside before directing her to the gardens. Castor and Pollux had been playing with some of the staff’s children but came running when they saw her. Avery felt terrible for not giving them any thought since this morning, but it had been an eventful day so far.

Feeling guilty, Avery found a walking path that ringed the lake and wandered off into the forest around the Palace. It seemed the kind of path that would take a while to walk and give her time to think and let the boys run. Little did she know that she would not be walking alone. Coming down the path in her direction were two men.

It was obvious that one was a man of power. Even the dogs lowered their heads the closer he came. He had black hair highlighted with gray around his temples. The gate of his walk suggested purpose even in such a casual setting. His features were hard but strikingly handsome. Brown eyes locked on her and it made her heart stop. She had seen those eyes before.

“Lady Avery,” he said in an accent she couldn’t place. The man with him, a subordinate, bowed to her. “Finally we meet. I am Troy Castille, the Grand Deity. I apologize for neglecting to come to you sooner. The time of your arrival was late and I did not want to intrude on your settling in. I hope your accommodations are satisfactory?” He absently petted the dogs that sniffed him.

“Wonderful. Thank you.” Avery’s throat dried up. She didn’t need to be a genius to figure out this man was the closest thing to a god she would ever behold. As a Master Thracian, Ryse had been overwhelming. This man, this demi-god, made her knees weak and her eyes lower to the ground.

Troy looked around and saw only Nikki a few paces behind her. “Nikki.”

“My lord?” She curtsied. Avery wondered if she should have done the same. Damn.

“Do you walk alone?”

“Yes, my lord.”

Troy took in a deep breath, rubbed his short beard and focused on Avery again. “Even in my refuge, you should have an escort. An unclaimed Grace is a commodity that causes Thracian males to lose their facilities.”

“I only wanted some time to think. I’ll go back inside.” Avery sighed, needing the sunshine and fresh air. The dogs would have to run without her.

“Nonsense. I shall walk with you. Perhaps I might shine some light on the dark thoughts in your mind.” He offered his arm to her and she took it with a shy smile. “Gabrele can keep Nikki company while we walk.”

The other man nodded and dropped back to walk by the Shadow Lady. They gave Avery and Troy a large berth before setting off on the path behind them.

“Something troubles you?” Troy asked softly.

Avery huffed indignantly then she remembered she was talking to a man one step below the gods. “At this point it would be easier to talk about what doesn’t trouble me. The list is shorter.”

“Speak your mind, child.” Troy’s voice was not commanding, but pleading.

“It’s like I’ve fallen asleep and can’t wake up. But I don’t know if I’m having a great dream or a nightmare of epic proportions.” Avery felt a compulsion to bare her soul to Troy. It made her wonder if this was part of his powers. “I look back and I think, none of this can be real. I was attacked by a man that had been my close friend for two years. I knew Jerry. I cooked for him and watched movies with him. We went bowling together and he fixed my leaking sink. He was Frank’s partner. They spent hours upon hours together and Frank never doubted his act. Neither did I. I think of all the times he could have killed me and it boggles my mind. He never once let on, never gave himself away as anything more than a good old country boy.”

“You gave him no reason,” Troy said, patting her arm. “If Ryse hadn’t come to collect you, Jerry might have lived the rest of his life in your town watching you for signs of your powers.”

“That’s a nauseating thought.”

“There is no telling how long they would have had him assigned to you. But we will never know.”

“I guess I should be grateful Master Ryse showed up.” Avery felt the need to use Ryse’s formal title with the Deity.

“But?” Troy asked with raised brows.

Avery waved off his inquiry. “Nothing.” Avery didn’t want to tell Troy that she had foolishly fallen for a man she couldn’t be with. “I’m still learning the aspects of auras.”

Troy took this opportunity to school her. Avery was drawn to his voice and watched his face as he spoke. “Auras are but ripples of our emotions and powers that emit from our souls. They indicate the strength of an Olympian. Peoples of diluted blood have diluted powers resulting in weak auras. A Grace such as you should rival Dynasty’s aura.”

“Magic and auras creating physical responses.” Avery shook her head and pulled away to cross her arms over her chest. “That’s not exactly what I want my marriage to be based on.” This might not have been the smartest thing to say to Troy. But he needed to know Avery didn’t want to enter into any kind of relationship if it wasn’t built on a foundation of love and trust.

Troy spelled it out for her, “Initially, every relationship is based on physical attraction, Avery. Think logically. Would you want to sleep with someone who physically repulsed you?” Avery reluctantly shook her head. She knew were this was going. “Humans call it lust. They base their version of love on what they feel in the moment. This person makes me happy, this person is behaving how I want them to, so I feel love for them. But they are selfish creatures and many do not understand the real meaning of the word.”

“Do you mean that you don’t feel love for your wife?”

Troy’s head jerked back. “On the contrary. I feel a great amount of love for my wife. Among all the gifts the gods have bestowed upon me, my mate is the greatest. Dyna makes every breath worth taking. She is the reason I am the man I am. I would do anything to please her.” Troy looked down at Avery, who had stopped walking and was gawking at him.

“Most men don’t talk like that.” Avery went mushy inside hearing such a masculine man admitting such profound things.

“Most men are fools.” He chuckled and tapped her on the nose. Troy took her hand and placed it back in the crook of his arm. “And to be honest, I would not voice such things to others. You, however, need to understand the type of commitment and devotion a Deity gives to his Grace. It is the same devotion you should expect. You see Avery, love is a verb, not a noun. It is an action, a daily choice made between two people. It is not a state of mind that one can float in and out of. It is not a destination to be traveled to. It is stone thrown into a pond, the effects rippling out. You do not have to know every detail about a person to love them. Compatibility is vital; do not misunderstand. A cow and a whale should not mate. A person must decide if they are compatible with another, then make the daily decision to love that person no matter their faults and quirks. Dyna has often frustrated me and I, her. But never once have I decided I didn’t love her because we didn’t see eye to eye.”

Avery thought it was a shame Troy was already married. If there were a way to clone him, she would have done it. If the gods had truly created a mate just for her, he would be like Troy in many ways. 


And you will all have to read Divine Destiny to find out why this last paragraph makes me smile!
Hope you enjoyed it.
-Jo  

LexiCon, Publishing and... Tapping???

Divine Destiny is Taking Flight with PRP Press!

In early July I had the privilege of attending the Lexi-Con conference in Denton, TX. My friend and fellow Author C.A. Szarek called me up and said, "We're going to this." And because this is how our random relationship works, I registered immediately. As a first-timer, I didn't know what to expect. I had some reservations about my schedule. But there was this tap, tap, tapping in my brain that wouldn't leave me alone. I weighted the options. The price was great, but would it be worth the drive? It was a full weekend, so I knew leaving the hubby and midgets would take some negotiation on my part. But I learned a while back that when you get that incessant tapping in the back of your mind telling you to take action, it's best to go with it.

And boy am I glad I did!

Mitch Haynes put on one of the best conferences I've been to in a while. All weekend I was surrounded by other indie and self-pub authors, marketing geniuses, book printers, and some of the nicest people I've ever met. I had the opportunity to have dinner and chat with publishers and editors. The classes were informative and small so the door for learning was wide open. Over the weekend I took pages and pages of notes. My head was spinning with ideas and inspiration. It was beneficial on a personal and professional level.

One of the best things that I took away from that weekend was a ton of new friends in the industry. I feel truly blessed to have been a part of it, and yes Mitch, it's on my calendar for next year! I think being a Lexi-Con member should be listed as one of my credentials. I survived AND got to see Mitch ride the saddle. Ye haw!

Another wonderful thing I gained from Lexi-Con was a publisher! Amanda Thrasher of Progressive Rising Phoenix Press was one of our guest speakers. The moment she started talking about various publishing options and how PRPP worked, I knew this was the cause for the tapping in my mind. Finally!

Not two months before Lexi-Con I was tossing around ideas with a few fellow authors about publishing companies and how I would set one up. Not to get filthy rich or make some big name for myself, but to pass on the knowledge and aid new writers who simply need a push in the right direction. There is so much raw talent out there and the industry has over looked it for too long. In true JoAnna Grace fashion, I would help them spread their wings and fly. Because what good is your knowledge if you don't pass it on?

Imagine my surprise when I hear Amanda saying the exact words that came from my lips. And if that's not coincidence enough, her company logo is... wings! Perhaps it was Destiny!

Those next days held numerous emails, submitting DD, more emails, and a large amount of prayer. But before the week's end, I signed on the dotted line and became a Phoenix author. Divine Destiny will be added to the roster of quality family books published at PRPP. It will be one of their first adult focused novels. Amanda and Jan are working hard to get this book out on my original release date. I believe the word 'miracle' has been used. LOL!

I look forward to working with PRPP in the future and am so pleased that they have the same vision of letting authors soar.

Moral of the story: 1) Attend Conferences!!!! I cannot stress that enough. 2) Don't ignore the incessant tapping, people! Go with it. Your willingness to open a new door can change everything. (and it makes the bloody tapping stop!)

Lovingly,
Jo

 

 Me with Chrissy

A bunch of crazy people that kidnapped me and made me laugh until my sides split. I was on the brink of tears. Love these guys: (Me) Chrissy, Lorie, Anna, & Sheryl with the (brave) gentleman from Dark Red Press: John & CL.

It's FRIDAY! *All must pause here for the celebratory dance.* Where every you are, stop and get your groove on. Don't worry about who might see it. LOL!

I know, for some of is Friday is just another day of the week. And that's cool. You can still take time to shake it and make it a glorious day!

AND to make it an even better day I have something for you! How about a sneak peek at the first chapter of Divine Destiny? Yes, you are welcome.

If that's not enough to inspire you, check for a pulse then head over to C.A. Szarek's blog and read about my Glass Slipper Revelation. Make sure you comment. Tell us about your GSR's.

And of course, I'm having a drawing for a FREE e-book copy of Divine Destiny! Woohoo!


There are a lot of wonderful things happening around here and I hope to have some exciting announcements soon. Keep in touch, don't be shy! And have a GREAT day. Go ahead, smile, you know you want to! :)

Lovingly,
Jo

It's OUT! Cover, Website, Blog Apearences & a GIVEAWAY

COVER:

Weeeeelllllllll, it looks as though I'm not very good at keeping secrets! (Keep that in mind if we ever have a drink together and you're feeling chatty!) It seems to me that this blasted cover was bound to be released early! Thank you Facebook. He he he!

So my friends, here is the cover for DIVINE DESTINY!!!!! Thanks to J.Leeann for a BEAUTIFUL cover. You are amazing!

-->

The gods work in mysterious ways…

Avery McClain is normal. Or so she thinks.

Until her life is shattered and she is rescued by a Thracian warrior. He takes her to the Haven, a realm of safety for the magical race of Olympians. There she discovers her life was meant for a higher calling as the mate of an Olympian Prince.

Her choice will change everything.

Ryse Castille has one job: convince Avery to step into her role as a Divine Grace. As with any mission, there are obstacles to overcome. Including the fact he is captivated by her. Of all the gifts the gods have given him, romance was not included. But Avery belongs to him and he will stop at nothing to protect her.

The enemy might be closer than they think.

Can Avery find the courage to embrace her destiny? Or will evil separate them for eternity?

 OFFICIAL RELEASE DATE:

The release date has been set! On August 27th Divine Destiny will be available. Woohoo! I will have all the links for purchase on my website (see below!) for purchasing.

 WEBSITE:

 I guess I can also let you know the website is up too... until I feel the need to change it again. I've been doing that a lot lately. Check it out! Website of JoAnna Grace. 

MORE GOODIES:

*There will be a drawing for a FREE AUTOGRAPHED COPY of Divine Destiny for those who join me & comment on the following blogs!*

On July 19th I will be on the website of C.A. Szarek for a guest post. Please stop by and check it out! 

On August 27th I will be on Get Lost In A Story blog. There are some pretty awesome authors there so you should breeze on over.

As always, I am blown away by your support! Thank you!

Lovingly, 

Jo

Divine Destiny Blurb!

Ok, so I'm easing you into this book! Don't want to overwhelm you right off the bat. He he! So my friends, here is the blurb. Hope it tickles your taste buds!

DIVINE DESTINY to be released August 2013!!!!!!

The gods work in mysterious ways…

Avery McClain is normal. Or so she thinks.

Until her life is shattered and she is rescued by a Thracian warrior. He takes her to the Haven, a realm of safety for the magical race of Olympians. There she discovers her life was meant for a higher calling as the mate of an Olympian Prince. 

Her choice will change everything.

Ryse Castille has one job: convince Avery to step into her role as a Divine Grace. As with any mission, there are obstacles to overcome. Including the fact he is captivated by her. Of all the gifts the gods have given him, romance was not included. But Avery belongs to him and he will stop at nothing to protect her.

The enemy might be closer than they think.

Can Avery find the courage to embrace her destiny? Or will evil separate them for eternity?

Official online cover reveal:  July 19th!

My good friend and fellow author, C.A. Szarek,  will be hosting my official online book cover reveal. I'm so excited to share this with you. My designer did a fantastic job of plucking the idea out of my head and bringing it to life. Not to mention making it a million times better. You should have seen the stick figure "idea" that I put in front of her! Eek!

And it's almost time to reveal it! I will also be launching the new website where you can read the first chapter!!!!! More information to follow on that!

For now, the cover! July 19th! Woohoo!

Please visit C.A. Szarek's blog: http://caszarekwriter.blogspot.com

Hope everyone is having a great week and please have a safe holiday weekend! 

GOD BLESS AMERICA!

LOVINGLY, 

JO