Anna K. Meade's Blog

How funny to me, at the ripe old age of six and thirty, to be writing a lovesong to a cultural phenomenon I missed entirely when I was growing up. I was just old enough to be too old for Pokémon when it came out. I missed the cartoon, the trading card game, the Nintendo DS games. So when I heard about Pokémon Go, I was dismissive, but I downloaded it so I’d have something to do with the boyfriend. I liked how it got us outside, how it was both simple enough to play and yet challenging to catch all the characters.

And then something magical happened. My mother asked to download it. My sixty-five year old mother who has had two strokes and has difficulty walking further than around the house. Although she’s regained a lot of her mobility and can drive, she struggles to walk and it’s sometimes difficult to get her out of the house even to walk to the mailbox. Dad suggested I ride the bike around with her, while she rode her mobility scooter.

Once I explained the app, she took off down the driveway on her scooter, holding her phone in front of her. “I see one,” she shouted. I showed her how to toss a Pokéball to snag it. She took off down the road again. I figured she’d get to the end of the lane and come back, but she turned down the side street and kept going. I could barely keep up, pumping the pedals to catch her. She stopped for so long at one point that a neighbor yelled to check if we’re okay.

I was in heaven. The sun was setting and it was gorgeous outside, that perfect sticky of Kentucky midsummer. The crickets were buzzing, the smell of honeysuckle was in the air. And my mom was smiling, laughing…outside. I circled back around on my bike, helped her track down a particularly tough one. She used an incense to draw them to her and managed to catch /nine/ Pokémon in all just by circling the block.

At the end, she was exhausted, I was exhausted, my t-shirt was stuck to my back and I was covered in bug bites, but I was walking up the driveway grinning like a fool and she earned a medal. So Pokémon Go, I was wrong about you. I know you’re not a perfect app, but in this moment, you were perfect for me. For mom. For us.

 

 

 

 

 

 

And would it have been worth it, after all,
Would it have been worth while,
After the sunsets and the dooryards and the sprinkled streets,
After the novels, after the teacups, after the skirts that trail along the floor—
And this, and so much more?—
It is impossible to say just what I mean!
But as if a magic lantern threw the nerves in patterns on a screen:
Would it have been worth while
If one, settling a pillow or throwing off a shawl,
And turning toward the window, should say:
               “That is not it at all,
               That is not what I meant, at all.”
– “The Lovesong of J. Alfred Prufrock”, T.S. Eliot

Sometimes bad news arrives without a hint of warning, during a comfortably pedestrian evening, after a glut of hash brown casserole and bacon. A terrible thought strikes you. And then, before you know it, you’ve confirmed it and everything falls apart.

I’d been worried about my friend Louise. She was back in Louisville, living on her own, getting more fragile. I’d said goodbye to her in June, took her out for lunch and to help her run errands, told her that Austin was the best place for me right now. She hugged me tight, twice, and let me go with tears in her eyes. If I am honest with myself, I knew then that I might not see her again. She was having more health problems, slowing down, but she had such an indefatigable spirit that I couldn’t even conceive of her not being in this world. Fast forward to December. I called her and got no answer, voicemail was full. I was mildly worried, but tried again on New Year’s. Same full voicemail message. It’s not uncommon for people to be absent-minded about their voicemail, but I was getting more nervous. I tried her cell phone. The number had been assigned to someone else. So I tried emailing her, convincing myself that people cancel their cell phone numbers for a variety of reasons. And then, and then.

I did what I probably should have done in the first place, exactly what I was afraid to do. I googled ‘Louise Russell Louisville’. It even popped up ‘Louise Russell obituary’ as one of the helpfully provided Google search terms. And even /then/, I told myself that it wasn’t that uncommon of a name. But then I came to this page and I knew.

She’d died November 6th. I’d missed her funeral, her memorial. I didn’t get to send her flowers. No one told me because almost no one knew how much I loved this woman.

This is how a heart breaks.

I was barely able to function, couldn’t even see, paid the check in a haze, stumbled out to the parking lot. Luckily, Brian was with me and could drive me home.

To explain all this, I’d have to go back eleven years, to 2004. I was a newly minted manager at J. Jill’s at the Mall St. Matthews in Louisville. I was a little nervous – it was my first retail management job – and most of the ladies I was managing had a decade on me, if not more. There was one employee, though, that I especially wanted to know better. She had sass, personality…I would’ve called her a spunky old lady if it weren’t patently disrespectful. She was 67, she went by Louise and NOT Ethel, and she could run rings around all of us. The older ladies loved her – hell, I’m pretty sure most of our customers preferred her. She just had the touch. She was always dressed beautifully, with her hair and makeup done.

One night, we were closing together, and chatting as we straightened the tables. We were already friends, but I didn’t know how that evening would change my life. She’d mentioned that she’d worked at Bacon’s Department store, when it was still opened. My head snapped up and I grinned.

“Oh wow, my grandma was a manager there for a long time. Did you know Josephine Paris?”

I will never forget her voice and her glee, “Jo? Jo PARIS?”

Not only had she known her, she’d been supervised by her, had loved her. She had such stories of the two of them and their hijinks, left me dazzled with visions of a younger, more mischievous grandma than I’d ever known. Such stories, it was like my beloved lost grandmother blazed back into life at that exact moment, fueled by the strength of her memories.

And so that was that. We were fast friends before we’d even cashed out for the night. We stayed in touch even after I left the store, moved to Florida. I was in Florida for seven years, but I still called her from time to time. Every time we spoke it was if we’d never stopped. She was a touchstone for Louisville, for my grandma, for a lot that was now lost to me.

When I came back, I got to see her again and oh was it wonderful. She came to my wedding. I have a wonderful, priceless picture of the two of us there that I will have to dig out. Time had taken some toll, but she still kept a lot of what made her Louise. She was in a lot of chronic pain, had several surgeries. After my divorce, one of the first things I did was go see her again. And again. It was never anything fancy. One day we went to Paul’s Fruit Market and picked up a sandwich. I drove her to get her medicine from the pharmacy and one other errand. She kept thanking me, as if it weren’t a gift to me to see her.

Just before I moved to Texas, I saw her one last time. I’m haunted by that visit. She seemed sad throughout, but I thought it was just because I was leaving. I hugged her twice, took her cell phone number, told her to PLEASE put me on a list of people to call if anything happened. I was worried she’d end up in the hospital and I wouldn’t know about it. I didn’t know any of her family and was going to be half a country away. As always, I told her I loved her and she started crying. I don’t know if she knew then I wouldn’t see her again or if it was just an emotional moment.

It’s easy to blame myself, scold myself about calling her more often. But she knew I loved her. I told her every time we spoke. She knew that she was one of the stars in my sky, my connection to my grandmother gone, a little piece of my soul. Her kindness and love and friendship meant the world. And I will miss her so very, very much. I know I have to let her go, but it’s so hard. As long as I knew she was out there, I knew there was a soul who loved me the way my grandma did.

Goodbye, Louise. There’s at least one person in this world who will never forget you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Do not stand at my grave and weep.
I am not there; I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.


When you awaken in the morning’s hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there; I did not die.

– Mary E. Frye, 1932

** Spoilers ahead. I was careful not to ruin any big reveals, but the nature of the post requires a minor spoiler. Proceed with caution. **

 

 

 

 

 

I saw Star Wars: The Force Awakens yesterday and it was so many things I’d hoped for and one unforgettable thrill. In the climactic battle, Rey, the scavenger from Jakku who has consistently been competent and talented and brave and strong, she summons the lightsaber. Luke’s lightsaber. And I burst into tears.

Because she was holding a lightsaber. It’s hard to explain, unless you were a young female geek who spent much of your childhood casting around for heroes that look like you. There are some notable standouts: Eowyn. Aerin Firehair. Xena. But most of the time I had to content myself with identifying with Bilbo and Luke, and countless other men on their hero’s journeys.

I like the original trilogy, but I recently saw a video that compiled women who talk in the Trilogy excluding Leia. It was embarassing. 1.03 minutes, and only really had Aunt Beru, Rebel Alliance Chief Communications Officer Toryn Farr, and Mon Mothma’s monologue. I do love Leia Hutt-Slayer, to be sure, but I always wanted more. To me, Star Wars was a universe strangely devoid of women. I wanted star battles and lightsaber fights and all the heart-throttling excitement…I just wanted a girl there. Or two.

I almost bought a poster of Rey before I saw it, but I hesitated. I mean, what if the promise of the trailers is not fulfilled? What if she’s just another token girl? But she’s not sexualized, she’s not there to be romanced. She was not the reward or the princess in the castle or the forgotten sidekick.

/She/ was the hero. She was the Chosen One. She was the one the movie closed on. And Leia, she was a strong leader, didn’t crumble under a crushing blow. And there was a female X-Wing pilot! And a female guard captain, Captain Phasma, with the First Order! The movie is threaded with amazing female characters.

While I’ve enjoyed a lot of his work, I’ve not always been the biggest J.J. Abrams fan. But I will always thank him for this. For giving her a lightsaber.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a poster to go buy.

WINNNNNNAAAAAARS!

For me, the hardest part of these contests is always the judging. One story, I love because of the lyrical writing. Another, because of the gorgeous imagery or the clever plot or the way it makes me feel at the end.

Ultimately, I could probably choose several sets of winners. Thank you to everyone who entered. Judging is very subjective, so I have to leave it to: who wrote a story for #DFQMND that encompasses the theme and does all of the above. I am very excited to announce these winners. I chose two, one for the Dreams package (Light) and one for the Nightmares Package.

So, without further ado, I present…your winners.



WINNER, Dreams

Daniel Swensen, for Annabella of the Spring

Sheer gorgeousness. Daniel, your writing makes it totally worth having to revamp the prize package, since I’m not awarding you the book you wrote. Your story is delicate and yearning and a perfect drop of longing in 400 words. Well done. I will be in touch regarding other prize options.

 

Honorable Mentions, Dreams

J.T. Ellis, for January in Sunset

Dr. Pete Meyers, for Listen

Holly Kench, for Dreaming Just Enough

 

WINNER, Nightmares

Steven Marsden, for The Princess and the Whispering Pines

This is a fantastic surprise, for Steven put up a blog simply to enter this contest. He wasn’t even in the DFQ group before this. Of course, now he is doomed. #MOOGHOOHAH. Steven, your story was lovely and the tempo was classical fairytale, but there’s a dark underbelly that took my breath away. Brava! So glad you entered.

Honorable Mentions, Nightmares

Eric Martell, for Evidence of Things Not Seen

Lyndsey E. Gilbert, for Mother May I

K.J. Collard, for The Coming Winter

 

Again, thank you to all those who entered! You humble and honor me with your collective talent.

Love to all,

#DFQ

 

First, I should say that I’m adding a week to the deadline, so for those of you palpitating over your stories, you have a bit extra. Linkup closes August 7, 11 pm EST.

You have all been so patient, waiting to hear about these magnificent prizes. We all know you do it for the guts and the glory, but it never hurts to win some snazzy prizes too!

There will be two winners to this contest. I’m doing a Dreams Prize Package (for the best light story) and a Nightmares Prize Package (for the best dark story).

So go on…make it difficult for me

 

Dreams Prize Package

First chapter and/or 3000 words review from editor Miranda Kate

One digital copy of Beneath the Old Oak by Lisa Shambrook

One digital copy of Orison by Daniel Swensen

One digital copy of Edgar Wilde and the Lost Grimoire by Paul Ramey

Featured on CultNoise Magazine‘s website, an exciting cultural and lifestyle e-magazine in the UK

 

Nightmares Prize Package

First chapter and/or 3000 words review from editor Miranda Kate

One digital copy of Dead Sea Games by J. Whitworth Hazzard.

One copy of the Veil & Subdue rock opera deluxe edition by Paul Ramey and Anna Meade

Featured on CultNoise Magazine‘s website, an exciting cultural and lifestyle e-magazine in the UK

Bonus: Eric Martell has offered to do a fun, personalized TBD for the Nightmares Prize Package. Who knows what hijinks you will work out with him – stay tuned!

 

Thanks to all the kind creatives who offered prizes for this contest. I reserve the right to substitute prizes of equal or greater value, if necessary. Prizes are giftable and transferrable, upon arrangement with me.

I know a bank where the wild thyme blows,

Where oxlips and the nodding violet grows,

Quite over-canopied with luscious woodbine,

With sweet musk-roses and with eglantine:

There sleeps Titania sometime of the night,

Lull’d in these flowers with dances and delight;

– A Midsummer Night’s Dream, II.1

I was woken from a dream to a shocking realization. It has been nigh on two years since my last flash fiction contest (see Behind the Curtain). How can this be??

Clearly this must be rectified immediately. And, in classic DFQ fashion, in the midst of full-time job and life and…but if I waited for things to slow down, I would never do ANYTHING.

Thus it is my pleasure and privilege to announce my latest flash fiction writing contest, the Dark Fairy Queen Midsummer Night’s Dream.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

So here are the details:

It is summer, a faint breeze blows, and the leaves are rustling. As dusk falls, the fireflies glow in a distant meadow. Have you not felt the magic of a summer night? Your story should.

Let us celebrate a midsummer night by creating 400 words.

For your theme, your story must take place, at least in part, on a summer evening. Also, choose one from the following list:

Dreams
Fairytales
Myths

Your story should be posted on your personal blog or a friend’s and linked up below with the Inlinkz tool (which opens July 15).

Need more inspiration? Check out the Faerytaleish Pinterest Board. Our Twitter hashtag to talk about the contest is #DFQMND. If I feel so inspired, there may be another #FanFav contest on Twitter.

Excited about the contest? Here’s the easiest ways to spread the word!

Share on Twitter

Share on Google+

Share on Facebook

No fan fiction (original worlds only) or erotica, please.

Prizes will be announced in a future post. You only have two weeks once the contest opens on July 15, what are you waiting for?

 

 

Need the code to link up on your blog? Here it is!

get the InLinkz code

Although it doesn’t feel long ago, I’ve now had over a year of Stitch Fix boxes. A blessed year of not going to the mall. For women who are not shoppers and/or don’t have the time to shop, it’s a genius invention. I was skeptical at first, but I have really enjoyed receiving my fixes (it’s like Christmas!).

So many style cards!

 

 

 

 

 

 

What is Stitch Fix?

For those unfamiliar, Stitch Fix is a subscription box service that sends you five items every month, based on your style preferences and requests. You set the budget for the kind of items you want. You are charged a $20 styling fee. If you keep any items, your fee is applied to your purchase. Shipping is free to and from – you can drop it in any post office box in the prepaid bag. In a year, I have only had one month where I didn’t care for anything and lost my styling fee. Every other month has had at least one item I loved

Stitch Fix does not require a membership fee or a monthly subscription. You can schedule as many or as few fixes as you like.

What kinds of clothes do you get?

They have a fantastic variety of styles: bohemian, glamorous, romantic, etc. They base your fix on the extensive style profile you fill out at the beginning. They offer sizes 0/XS – 14/XL and offer maternity and petite sizes.

What is the style profile like?

Here’s a glimpse of mine. I think it’s very thorough, so they get a great idea of your shape and size, style and how you like things to fit.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Here’s a review of some of the highlights of my Stitch Fix boxes. Not all the photos are mine. (Note: if a photo is yours and you’d prefer me not use it, please comment below and I’ll take it down).

If you want to try it out, you can sign up here: Stitch Fix. I get a wee credit if you do, so thanks!

If you do sign up, just be aware it might be your new addiction.

 

STITCH FIX, MY YEAR IN REVIEW

Liverpool Mira Skinny Pull-On Pant

These are amazingly comfortable black pants. They are dressier than a legging, but fit beautifully. They are also long enough for tall ol’ me! I can dress them up or down.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Market and Spruce Spencer Striped Jersey dress

I loved this dress on, super soft. The teal and navy stripes were a fun combo and even though I would not have picked it up in a store, it’s so cute – Stitch Fix is great for getting you out of your fashion comfort zone.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Liverpool Raina Dark Denim Jacket

Fantastic black denim jacket, fits like a dream. Has a lot of style for a basic, feels expensive, but wasn’t. Clever interior details and super with dresses.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mystree Striped French Terry Asymmetrical Jacket

This is one of my very favorite Stitch Fix pieces. It’s so cute and sassy on, with its moto styling and French va-va-voom. The portrait collar is very flattering and, as you see, I love stripes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pixley Analisse Anorak Jacket & Octavia Henry Birds on Branch Infinity Scarf & Sam Hi-Lo Tee

The anorak is the perfect spring weight and I love the 3/4 sleeves. The olive color goes with everything and it has a detachable hood. I wear the Henry scarf if I just want to toss on an accessory to dress up a plain tee, though the Sam Hi-Lo is lovely soft fabric and dressier than just a t-shirt.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kensie Jeans Angie Cropped Skinny Jean

This was in my first fix and I was totally shocked they were able to fit me, right off. I mean, we all know how hard it is to find jeans that are flattering. I love that they are rolled at the bottom, because cropped jeans can make me look like my pants shrunk. Goes with everything, great transition piece into spring and out of summer.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Baggu Duck Bag (Dot Blue)

This bag is flat-out adorable. I am addicted to polka dots and, I mean, look at it! Heavy cotton and holds a ton, super inexpensive.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

41Hawthorn Abrianna Longsleeve Knit Cardigan

My favorite cardigan ever. Beautiful teal color, soft and drapey. It’s a very flattering fit and length and the perfect weight for air-conditioning.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pixley Monet Mini Facet Bib Necklace

I love statement necklaces and this one always gets compliments. Not expensive, but memorable.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pixley Ohara Faux Wrap Tie-Waist Dress

This is a very comfortable, easy faux-wrap dress. The belt is removable, but I like to knot it on one side. I love the multi-blue and purple chevron pattern and it can be dressed up or down with accessories.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Margaret M Odela Houndstooth Pencil Skirt

This skirt is a curvy girl’s dream. Slightly stretchy and very comfortable, in a classic pencil skirt cut. The fabric has a very subtle black on black herringbone. Classy!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Renee C Ventura Graphic Print Key Hole Detail Tank

This is one of the most fun pieces I’ve gotten in a fix. The keyhole is front and back, lightweight with a bright Ikat print. So fun.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pixley Kathy Fit and Flare Dress

Super sweet fit and flare dress, very Audrey Hepburn.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diana Kut From the Kloth Jeans

Of all the pieces I’ve gotten from Stitch Fix, this is my very favorite discovery. I LOVE these jeans to an almost unhealthy extent. They are comfortable and flattering. I loved them so much I requested them again and they sent me a different wash. WORTH EVERY PENNY.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you are intrigued, I highly recommend you check it out! Click on the link below or any of the photographs.

I love to hear your thoughts. Have you tried Stitch Fix? Loved it? Hated it? Curious? Questions? Comment away!

 

For those who are unfamiliar with Jamberry nail wraps, they are non-toxic and waterproof, easy to apply, and have hundreds of designs. You can check them out here: ruanna3.jamberrynails.net.

They have been amazing for me, as I’ve never had pretty nails and, in fact, bit my nails and cuticles. I always say, if I can put them on, anyone can!

Mermaid Tales Jamberry Nail Wraps

Whisper (clear) + Grapefruit Jamberry Nail Wraps

 

Today through 4/17, we are hosting a super fun Rafflecopter giveaway. See the gorgeous prizes below the RC!

So you might wonder how you can enter?

1) You can post on your Facebook wall. Don’t mention the giveaway, as that’s against FB’s ToS, but talk about your Jamberry wraps experience and how you’ve enjoyed them. Basically, a short testimonial. Feel free to link to my Jamberry page or include photos. That nets you three entries, just be sure to tag me in!

2) Leaving a comment on this blog post gets you 2 entries

3) If you write a blog post about Jamberry, you get an amazing 5 entries! It doesn’t have to be long, again, just that you’re using them and enjoying them and include the code for the Rafflecopter. Be sure to let me know the link on social media!

4) Tweet about the giveaway. This gives you one entry and you can do it once a day till the giveaway is over!

5) Follow me on Twitter gives you one entry and also a freebie to those who already follow me

 

Any questions? Feel free to ask them in the comments, gets you two entries!

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Prize Giveaway #1: Mother’s Day Ruby & Rose Gift Set (value $45)

Mother’s Day wraps from Ruby & Rose gift set on hands

Prize Giveaway #2: Love Connection Lacquer Gift Set (value $54 – now discontinued!)

Lacquer from Love Connections gift set, including Design Dimensions sparkle appliques and top coat!

Everyone needs a place to keep their nail stuff! You can win your very own Anna & Co. storage cubby. (3 available, $17 value, wraps and nail paraphernalia not included)

 

 

I have a tendency to write wordy, literary posts. But I am confident there are times that images speak more clearly. So here is my travelogue for my family’s visit to a local aquarium.

2015: Year of the Fish Face.

Exhibit A: Fishface

Comparing Underbites

I do not measure up to Mighty Mike

He was not impressed when told this

Discovery: my head is snack-sized

The Puffer Fish is appalled

Stalking the rare Moosefish

Gotta kiss a lotta frogs to…nevermind

Pablo and I had a frank discussion of why I dislike a fish-only diet

This jellyfish is slowly consuming my skull

He’s right behind me, isn’t he?

And then the most terrifying part of the aquarium…

…the giftshop!

Happy New Year, everyone! If you made it this far, comment and tell me your favorite pic. The most popular one will be changed to my profile picture for a week.

Never let it be said the Dark Fairy Queen takes herself too seriously.

‘Tis the season to support indie authors and show a little #indieluv. For your shopping pleasure, I have compiled a list of minion books. These are hard-working, talented people and if you can’t buy their stuff, sharing this post so that other shoppers can find it will be so appreciated.

Books are organized by genre and then author last name (books in a series are listed in order). All prices are current to date of post, 12/16/14 and are not guaranteed past 12/18/14. A lot of them are on sale just for this brief time, so snap them up now!

Special thanks to Joni Lynn and Blue Harvest Creative for designing our awesome #DFQ Literary Gift Guide image!

Click on the book cover or the format links (Kindle/Paperback) to buy.

 

And without further ado…

ANTHOLOGIES

 

 

 

 

 

Cutthroats and Curses: An Anthology of Pirates edited by Michael Wombat, with stories by Michael Wombat, Lisa Shambrook, Boyd Miles, Marissa Ames, Bryan Taylor, Beth Avery, Eric Martell, Michael A. Walker, Alex Brightsmith, et al. 

Genre: Anthology, adventure.

Kindle: $2.99

 

 

 

 

 

 

Flash Dogs: An Anthology by 34 authors, including Eric Martell and Rebekah Postupak

Genre: Anthology, collection of 110 stories, proceeds benefit children’s charity.

Kindle: $2.99

 

 

 

 

 

 

In Creeps the Night: An Anthology edited by Laura Jamez and Marissa Ames, with stories by authors including Ailsa Abraham, Beth Avery, Christine Fitzner, Cory John Eadson, Eric Martell, J. Whitworth Hazzard, Joni Lynn, Kevin Hammond, Laura Jamez, Leslie Fulton, Michael A. Walker, Mary MacFarlane, Marissa Ames, Michael Wombat, Nick Johns, Rebecca Fyfe, Ruth Long, Sorcha O’Dowd, Spencer Stoner and Theresa Miller, et al.

A creepy collection of flash fiction for horror lovers.

Genre: Anthology, horror

Kindle: $3.99

Paperback: $13.32

 

 

 

 

 

 

Orange Karen: Tribute to a Warrior by Christina Esdon, Jennifer Gracen, Steven Luna, Mark Ethridge, Anne Baker, Anna Meade, Jeff Tsuruoka, James Hazzard, et al.

Laugh. Cry. Swoon. Gasp. All the feels in one book.

Genre: Anthology, proceeds go to medical bills of Karen Delabar

Kindle: $3.99

Paperback: $13.35

 

 

 

 

 

 

Blood on the Ground and other Short Stories by Michael Wombat

A cornucopia of adventure that absorbs, amuses, thrills and terrifies.

Genre: Anthology, short stories by one author.

Kindle: $2.99

Paperback: $7.33

 

FANTASY

 

 

 

 

 

Minstrel: The First Book of Tir Athair by Marissa Ames

How does playing for the king spark a civil war?

Kindle: $4.99 99 cents (for three days only!)

Paperback: $13.35

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vassal: The Second Book of Tir Athair by Marissa Ames

Peasants tell stories of her sacrifice.
Soldiers tell about him.

Kindle: $4.99 $3.99 (for three days only!)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Orison by Daniel Swensen

The power to change the world is now in the hands of a sneak thief — if it doesn’t kill her first.

Kindle: $3.99

 

HORROR/MYSTERY (includes Dystopian, Suspense/Thriller)

 

 

 

 

 

Gasher Creek by J. Birch

Jack Devlin awakes with a shotgun pointed at his face. Sally, a whore, lay dead beside him. Jack remembers nothing; could he really have killed her? And if so, why?

Genre: Mystery, Western.

Kindle: $2.99

 

Zombie War by Jean Booth

What began as a cure…became a nightmare.

Genre: Zombie Dystopian.

Kindle Presale price: $3.95 (until Feb. 7)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Viennese Waltz by Alex Brightsmith

A calculated dance of duty and deceit.

Genre: Thriller

Kindle: $2.00

Paperback: $11.47

 

 

 

 

 

 

Find the Lady by Alex Brightsmith

Somebody’s nightmare, somebody’s dream, but who is Kathryn Blake?

Genre: Thriller

Ebook: $2.99 $1.99 (use voucher discount code MD62C)

 

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Countenance by Joy Ross Davis

Genre: Cozy Paranormal Suspense

Haunted B&B with secrets, ghosts, demons, and angels.

Kindle: $6.00 $5.00

Paperback: $14.99

 

 

 

 

 

 

Church of Bacon by Kevin Hammond

A man ends up in prison with a transvestite and a supernatural radio

Genre: Horror

Kindle: 99 cents

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dead Sea Games by J. Whitworth Hazzard

One year after the Emergency, the island of Manhattan is a prison.  If Jeremy Walters manages not to get killed, he’ll still face every teenager’s greatest fear: an angry mother.

Genre: Zombie Dystopian

Kindle: $5.95 ($1 Kindle MatchBook program + Kindle Lending Library for Prime members)

Paperback: $15.95

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dark Holidays by Jeffrey Hollar

The holidays are not always a time of goodness and light. With this collection of tales, you’ll realize just how dark the holidays can be.

Genre: Short story collection, horror with holiday focus.

Kindle: $1.99

Paperback: $6.64

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kitchen Antics & Other Tales by LE Jamez

Collection of creepy Flash Fiction.

Genre: Flash fiction collection, horror.

Kindle: 99 cents

 

 

 

 

 

 

Not a Whisper (A Klondike Mystery Book 1) by D.B. McNicol

Cherie finds herself in the middle of a local crime wave where arson, kidnapping, embezzlement and a decades-old murder are just the tip of the iceberg.

Genre: Mystery

Kindle: $4.99 (on sale Dec. 31, 2014 – 7 am PST to Jan. 2, 2015 – 7 am PST for $1.99)

 

 

 

 

 

Fog by Michael Wombat

When all you know is to run for your life…

Genre: Supernatural Thriller

Kindle: $2.55

Paperback: $13.72

 

LITERARY FICTION

Beneath the Rainbow by Lisa Shambrook

It’s those silly dreams that keep us alive, and Freya won’t let death stand in her way…

Genre: Contemporary Drama

Kindle: $3.99 or £2.50

Paperback: $9.99

 

Beneath the Old Oak by Lisa Shambrook

Meg thinks her mother is broken. Is she broken too?

Genre: Contemporary Drama YA

Kindle: $3.99 or £2.50

Paperback: $9.79

 

NON-FICTION

 

 

 

 

 

The Complicated Geography of Alice by Jules Vilmur

“I’m always angry because I’m always sad, and I’m always sad because I am a girl.” These were the words that changed everything.

Genre: Memoir/Narrative Non-Fiction

Kindle: $9.99

Paperback: $14.77

 

ROLE-PLAYING GAMES

 

 

 

 

 

Becoming: A Game of Heroism & Sacrifice RPG by Brian Engard

Overthrow the tyrant. Survive the woods. What will you become?

Watermarked PDF: $9.99 $4.99



Softcover Color Book (Premium): $24.99 $13.99

Hardcover Color Book (Premium): $39.99 $19.99

 

 ROMANCE (INCLUDES PARANORMAL, URBAN AND EROTICA)

 

 

 

 

 

Choice (Origins of the Supernaturals Book 1) by Jean Booth

It was chance, guided by the hands of a god that brought them together.

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Kindle: $4.99

Paperback: $9.99

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hunted Heart by Alison DeLuca

When Tali’s hired to cut out the heart of Prince Kas, the huntress can’t refuse. Tali realizes there’s no escape from the dark magic of the queen’s mirror, though her own feelings for the prince are too complex to understand.

Genre: Adult Fairytale, Genrebent Snow White (18+ only). Proceeds go to SavetheChildren.

Kindle: 99 cents

 

 

 

 

 

 

Autumn Getaway (Seasons of Love Book 1) by Jennifer Gracen

Genre: Romantic Women’s Fiction

Kindle: $3.99

Paperback: $13.79

 

 

 

 

 

 

Winter Hopes (Seasons of Love Book 2) by Jennifer Gracen

Genre: Romantic Women’s Fiction

Kindle: $3.99

Paperback: $11.17

 

 

 

 

 

 

Love Before Honor by Nicole Zoltack

A medieval knight. A Regency lady. The magical Christmas that brings them together.

Genre: Time-travel Romance, Christmas

Kindle: $2.99

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Test of Time by Nicole Zoltack

If Katia can’t master the test of time, she’ll never be reunited with Landon.

Genre: Time-travel Romance

Kindle: $3.99

 

YOUNG ADULT & CHILDREN’S (Includes YA and MG)

 

 

 

 

 

Captured: A White Road Tales Novella by Jackie Castle

He will lose everything if their secret is found out.

Genre: YA Fantasy

Kindle: 99 cents

 

 

 

 

 

 

Illuminated: The White Road Chronicles Book 1 by Jackie Castle

If the Wizard of Oz swept you away and Narnia enchanted you, then follow the White Road Chronicles for a new kind of adventure

Genre: YA Inspirational Fantasy

Kindle: 99 cents

 

 

 

 

 

 

Storyteller, Bo ok 1: The True World by Lisa T. Cresswell

Lily Lightfoot can make weird things happen while storytelling.

Genre: MG Fantasy

Ebook: $2.99

 

 

 

 

 

 

Storyteller, Book 2: The Quest of Galamar by Lisa T. Cresswell

The tale of half-breed fairy Lily continues.

Genre: MG Fantasy

Ebook: $2.99

 

 

 

 

 

 

Swallow Me, Now! by Melissa Gijsbers

Could life at Sam’s new school get any worse?

Genre: Middle Grade, Age Level 8-12

Kindle: $4.99

Paperback: $15.28

 

 

 

 

 

 

Flight of Blue: Keeper of the Keys Chronicles by A.E. Howard

One boy stands between the Darkness and everyone he loves.

Genre: MG Fantasy

Kindle: $2.99

Paperback: $11.45

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ghostnapped by Ashley Howland

Genre: MG

With the help of a ghost named Susan and her trusty Labrador Thuds, Alex must solve the mysteries of the present – and the past – to rescue her brother from a monster before it’s too late!

Paperback: $8.99

 

 

 

 

 

 

Obi the Super Puppy and the Mystery of the Red Mist by Ashley Howland

Who’s behind the evil red mist, which controls animals and toys? Can Obi and his friends save the day before it’s too late?

Genre: MG

Paperback: $3.61

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bump in the Night by Michael Johnson

A bedtime story for clever children who do not frighten easily

Genre: YA Horror/Dark Fantasy

Kindle: $5.99

Paperback: $13.35

 

 

 

 

 

 

Edgar Wilde and the Lost Grimoire by Paul Ramey

Everybody needs a hobby. Edgar’s is digging up a town’s dark, forgotten past.

Genre: YA Mystery

Kindle: $1.99