Milestone Marker

Posted in Guardians Dynasty by JustineWinter

Holy Freakin’ Moly.

Whatever you’re doing right now, stop. Like, seriously. Stop. I have another exciting milestone to mark.

Guess what I’ve literally done? Any takers? . . .

That’s right lovers, I’ve finished the first draft of Guardians Dynasty! You guys know the score, still got a way to go yet until it’s published, but I wanted to share this victory with you all since I’m riding a pretty epic high right now. This is me in my pj’s, you know, because I’m a stereotypical writer . . .

Oh, and while I remember. . . Yeah, it’s easy to forget what I was meant to write about when my brain is shooting stars of awesome distraction across my mind right now. Guardians Dynasty has a theme song, and I literally only heard it the other day, which was quite lucky, considering the lyrics were perfect for the scenes I had yet to write. Anyway, it’s a Nickelback song from their new No Fixed Address album , titled The Hammer’s Coming Down. So, if you want an idea of what to expect in the third installment of the Nature’s Destiny series, then listen to this.

I hope everyone else’s week has started off as good as mine!

2Nov2014

Nature’s Destiny Paperback Giveaway

Posted in Nature's Destiny by JustineWinter

It’s giveaway time!

What better way to celebrate my birthday, Halloween, bonfire night and Christmas than with a giveaway? Or, you know, any other reason you can think of…

I’m a sucker for this time of year; I absolutely love it. The colder, darker, longer nights, the necessary need for hot chocolate, and everything relates to Christmas. The food, films, music, family time, and the inspiration that always comes to mind – watch out for a project I’m working on coming this time next year. Until the end of December 2014, I’m hosting a giveaway via Goodreads for a SIGNED paperback of Nature’s Destiny, the first book in my Werewolf series. Enter here.

Nature’s Destiny Teaser

There wasn’t a need for talk as I watched the sky. It was a dark, navy colour and it shone with the many stars that twinkled above me. Captivating from the get-go, I settled to enjoy the peace and quiet. Who knew what I’d be facing in the future?
Riley’s even breathing held a steady rhythm that lulled and hypnotized me. It was completely tranquil. I decided to rest my eyes for a few minutes, and tightened my hold on his shirt.
I drifted off into a dreamless sleep, and stirred a few minutes later.
“Getting sleepy, sweetheart?” he asked.
I nodded, and attempted to get up.
“Where are you going?”
“We should probably go back, right?” I asked.
“No, we can stay here if you want. Inside or outside, it’s up to you,” he said, as he motioned for me to settle down in his arms again. I did without complaining. I liked it here.
“Won’t we get cold?” I asked. As warm as I was, I was unsure if the drop in temperature was going to affect us.
“Shhh. Stop worrying, there’s a blanket inside if we need it. Close your eyes my beautiful Luna, I will take care of you.”
I did as I was told, sneaking one last look at the stars. My destiny written all over them.
“Riley?”
“Mmm?”
“Do you think the prophecy, my destiny, is exactly what you were told?”
“Destiny is what we make through the choices life gives us. The future isn’t promised, which is why we make each day count. Live for you, not because of what’s expected of you. We don’t judge, we protect. That’s family, and that’s pack. And I will always be here for you, Luna. We’ll get through this together.” He kissed the top of my head and tightened his arms around me.
My choices had been taken away from me the day I was turned. Since then I’d followed orders. I wasn’t me anymore, I was the person I was always supposed to become. Special.
It didn’t matter what everyone thought. I was going to protect my pack, especially Riley. Nothing was going to stop me from giving him the happiness he deserved. Even if that meant war.

11Aug2014

Seven – 11 Blog Hop & Giveaways

Posted in 7-11 Blog Hop, Sapphire's Divinity, Writing by JustineWinter

Whoa! I can’t believe we’re at the 11th August already. Where did the last month go? Fear not though, I have some goodies for you. It’s officially the second post in the Seven-11 blog hop, and there’s plenty of appetisers for your eyes to feast on.

Today’s seven lines come from Sapphire’s Divinity which will release in 16 days! I don’t know about you, but I can’t wait! If you enjoy this little teaser, then be sure to mark it as to-read on Goodreads here. August 27th will soon come around! And if you haven’t read Nature’s Destiny yet (the first in the series) then you’re in luck because it’s currently on sale for 99c/77p at Amazon, Kobo, Smashwords, B&N & iBooks.

Now for the snippet:

The creatures grabbed at my arms, and stretched me as they chanted something I didn’t understand. Minutes ago I’d been contemplating doing the exact same thing to them, yet here they were pulling me apart.

I screamed from the tearing pain, my body searched for every last drop of energy. The bubble inside me had grown from all of the fighting, but I couldn’t concentrate on it long enough with my arms ripping from my torso. I felt like a doll with its stitches falling apart.

“LUNA!” I heard the sound of Riley’s cry, and I blinked back the tears as I watched him running towards me. Everything turned into slow motion as I realised he’d never get to me in time.

I hope you enjoyed that sneak peek! And if your tastebuds are tickling for some more, then you should check out the amazing list of authors below who are also sharing some teasers from their work today, and you should definitely enter these awesome giveaways going on right now:

Author Steph Nuss is giving away (US Only) a SIGNED PAPERBACK copy of her new release, Fantasized by You. Enter to win at Goodreads here.

AND! Author SM Boyce is giving away a Stacey Marie Brown Swag Bag. Enter to win here.

7-11 Blog Hop

Posted in 7-11 Blog Hop, Sapphire's Divinity, Writing by JustineWinter

Today marks a very special moment for the 7-11 blog hop. It’s the first one, and I’m so honoured to be a part of it. Every month on the 11th I’ll be posting 7 lines from whichever novel I’m working on. How awesome is that? You guys get a sneak peek preview every month! Can I get a high five? #Woohoo And, I’m not the only one partaking in this blog hop so be sure to check out the list below to see what such extraordinary, talented authors have to offer from their WIP’s too! I can guarantee you won’t be disappointed!

Also, I wanted to do a special little shout out to the wonderful founder of this brand new venture – Amanda Aksel. Amanda, a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY to you today, and I hope you have a brilliant day!

Now on to the goodies. Today’s 7 lines come from Sapphire’s Divinity, the second novel in the Nature’s Destiny series. Enjoy!

A pounding drum beat inside my head, and the rhythm increased pressure to my temple. I was dizzy, barely capable of holding my eyes open long enough to get a glimpse as to where I was.

I was in darkness, that much I knew from the glance I was able to achieve. I focused on my breathing, calming my mind with every intake of oxygen.

Where was I? What was going on?

I managed to open my eyes entirely, and I almost wished I couldn’t.

Don’t forget to check out these authors, plus Amanda’s holding a giveaway for her novel, The Man Test. So be sure to click here and enter!

My Writing Process; Blog Hop

Posted in Writing by JustineWinter

When a writing opportunity comes my way, I’d be foolish to turn it down. So, when my twitter lit up with a message from Roger, asking me to be a part of this tour, I agreed immediately. After all, it’s pretty exciting to talk about writing in any capacity. But, before I take over the limelight let’s talk about the wonderful Roger. He’s a writer of horror and the geekiest guy on the block. Seriously, don’t ever confuse Star Wars with Star Trek because you’ll end up feeling like Penny in a room with Sheldon, Leonard, Howard and Raj. Oh yeah, I’m Super proud of my Big Bang Theory metaphor there. I also realise my coolness factor just dropped astronomically. (If you watch the show, you’ll notice the puns.) You can read his writing process here, and I also urge you to read his short story pieces too. He comes with an abundance of creativity and his #FridayPhrases captivate quite the audience.

I’m truly grateful to be a part of this hop, and I thank you, Roger, for thinking of me.

Now, on to the Spanish Inquisition, uh, I mean, insightful questions…

What am I working on?

Here’s the part where I jump up and down with excitement to share some new information with you all. If you follow me on twitter or stalk me on facebook then you’ll know I’ve started writing Nature’s Destiny 2, and while that is still very much a part of me, I have something brand new in the works. Sometimes an idea won’t quit no matter how much you write down, and that’s exactly what happened with my current WIP. It’s a New Adult MC Romance, and for those that don’t know what MC stands for, its Motorcycle Club. That’s right, I’m writing a hot, steamy, gritty biker book that focuses on two viewpoints. Yup, I’m dabbling with dual POV’s this time, and it’s definitely intended for a mature audience (17/18+). As I’m still in the early word count stages of this novel, I don’t want to reveal too much. But, stay tuned for more details in the next month or so. Oh, and if you’re a little curious and want to get a little taste as to the ‘feel’ of the novel, you can check out my Spotify playlist titled MC, (actual title to be chosen.)

How does my work differ from others of its genre?

You know, when I first read this I was going to answer by saying it’s because of my style. Every writer has their own imprint, just like the unique DNA cast in the grooves of our fingers. But, that’s when I realised I had a correlation of themes in the novels I’m writing. Basically, it all boils down to family. If you’ve read Nature’s Destiny, you’ll know what I’m talking about. It’s okay, I won’t divulge any spoilers here. I guess you’ll have to read it for yourself to find out.

Why do I write what I do?

It’s simple really, I just love to write. With Nature’s Destiny, I love to explore and create the things that don’t exist. I was recently asked a few similar questions, which you can read here, and ultimately it returns to that feeling of free reign. I have been obsessed with the paranormal since I sat down and watched Buffy the Vampire Slayer with my best bud when we were in primary school. Angel became the first vampire I fell in love with, Oz was my first taste at a werewolf, and Buffy, the first strong female character I truly admired. I was so caught up in Joss Whedon’s Buffyverse I wanted to be her. The supernatural are fascinating, to exist with a power that saves mankind on a daily basis without all the glory? Firstly, sign me up, and secondly, let me capture that in my writing. As the years have gone by, the paranormal community has kept my addiction going from episodes of True Blood, to films such as Underworld. And on another note, I’m pretty sure I have a ghost in my house, but we’ll get to those stories another day.

What I’m currently working on isn’t paranormal, but it’s still romance. And that’s the main genre of my novels. Not everything in life is fair or easy, and sometimes the bad things win too many times, but writing what I do, I want to create an escape for someone else. I want to be able to provide some happiness for someone that needs a break from the real drama. And, if I can do that for them by providing a Happily Ever After, then my goal as a writer has been met.

How does your writing process work?

My process is simple. I write the entire first draft, then I rewrite, and finish by editing. There’s a lot of stuff that happens after that like beta readers, but those three steps are what I do alone first. I have a big whiteboard on my wall, seriously it’s like the size they use in schools, and I use it to plot. Then I dab post-it notes, pictures, lyrics, anything that inspires the storyline around it too. Honestly, when I wrote Nature’s Destiny, the entire wall looked like it had been redecorated with all the pieces of paper I’d blu-tacked to it. The whole idea, isn’t that I’ve gone absolutely insane, but it’s the fact I see it when I go to bed, and it’s the first thing I see when I wake. It becomes embedded so deeply in my subconscious, that when I’m not actively thinking of it my mind will throw an idea that could help me solve whatever writing struggle I’m having. I stick to writing goals; 2000 words a day, and if I don’t succeed that day I’ll add it on to the next. Why do I put that pressure on myself? Discipline. If I didn’t, I’d never get anything done. And with every milestone I achieve, I do a little celebratory dance, like, YAY I finished the first draft, YAY I finished rewrites etc. Every step is worth a pat on the back because it’s another step closer to publishing. Don’t play it down, it’s a great feat to have conquered.

So, with my writing process mumblings out of the way, I guess you’re wondering who’s up next. And, boy, have I got a line-up for you, which I’m so grateful they accepted! I can’t wait to read what they have to say…

Heather Hildenbrand

Heather is an acclaimed indie author of over 10 YA & NA titles including her bestselling Dirty Blood series which can be found at her blog. She’s also the founder of Phoenix: Author Ink where she coaches authors from plotting to publishing, and most recently co-founder of Elephantine Publishing.

Loubelle Bree

yNRSZalE

Loubelle’s blog holds written pieces inspired by her life. From a series she dedicates as letters to her dad, to the struggles and joys she finds during the creation of her WIP. Oh, and a love for avacado’s too.

Erica Alex

_z8ANfXC

Besides the many names Alex likes to pen, her blog is filled with writerly musings, and a regular story-telling posted as Finally Friday. She also holds updates on her current WIP titled, The Final Chapter of Rain, which in turn is the first instalment of the Zodiac series.

That’s it from me for now. Thanks again, Roger.

Have a great week all!

27Oct2013

Nature’s Destiny Sneak Peek

Posted in Nature's Destiny by JustineWinter

I’ve pondered over what to write this week for a few hours. My indecision wavering from one thought to another. It was my birthday yesterday and while I received many gifts, I realised I had a gift to give in return.

For my followers, readers and fellow writing enthusiasts my gift to you today is a sneak peek at the first chapter of my novel, Nature’s Destiny. As I’ve previously posted my Prologue, it seemed only fitting that I follow on from that. I hope you enjoy reading it.

Hysteria penetrated my body. I couldn’t think straight and my head thumped from the blinding pressure. I could see black dots floating above my eyes. I knew I was about to pass out.
I tried to breathe evenly, taking big   gulps of air and letting them whoosh out of me. I couldn’t pass out, not now. I had to stay calm, I needed to work out what was going on. I   stuck my head between my legs, which should have worked, but made no difference.
The searing pain in my head increased and I felt the urge to give in to the darkness. I couldn’t resist it anymore.
I   woke up to the sound of my phone ringing. I stretched my arm out and patted the bed, but it was no use I couldn’t   find it. I was   too sleepy to really care, and I could feel the pull of my dreams drawing me back to sleep. The phone could wait, for now I needed to rest.
I could hear a faint pounding in my   dream, it matched   the rhythm of paws hitting the ground as I ran. The noise   grew louder the   closer I got to my destination.   “Luna, are you there? Come on girl, open up!” Huh, that’s odd, I could’ve sworn that was Sky’s voice.
The constant thudding increased and my head started   to hurt all over again. “Luna, I swear if you don’t   open this door in two seconds I’m going to kick it down!” With that threat,   I realised I wasn’t dreaming anymore, that was definitely Sky’s irritated voice I could hear. Intent on keeping my door on its’ hinges I leapt out of bed and dashed through the house to open it.
“Geez, Sky, there’s no need to get all dramatic!” I couldn’t help sounding sullen, I was enjoying my dream too much for it to be over. The second I opened the door she came barging in. “Hello, to you too!” OK, so maybe I   was grumpy, but she deserved it.
  I closed the door behind her   and turned to face her. She’d better have a good reason for interrupting my sleep.

20Oct2013

Howling All Beta Readers

Posted in Nature's Destiny, Writing by JustineWinter

As I continue to edit Nature’s Destiny, I can’t switch my mind off from the many self-publishing tasks ahead. Today’s thought of choice is Beta Readers, and the irony of this title isn’t lost on me.

I have researched and pondered many times over this topic, and inevitably questioned whether anyone would even want to Beta Read my novel. It is such a trusting nature, to send off your pride and joy to someone unknown, in the hopes that they won’t tear it apart completely. I know as a general rule, that I won’t please everyone, but the majority? Yes please!

That means feedback is the only way forward.

I have an awesome, talented, writer buddy whose promised to read my novel – providing I haven’t scared her off already. I value her opinion, and I’m really excited to hear what she has to say about it.

I’m getting ahead of myself, because as I say, I’m only at the editing stage now, but I like to be prepared. It’s good to have a schedule, right?

So I’m wondering, are there any other Beta Readers out there who’d like to read my novel when it’s ready?

15Sep2013

Sunday Shenanigans

Posted in Nature's Destiny by JustineWinter

Sitting in an uncomfortable, rounded, wooden chair I desperately attempted to tune out the battling sounds of children screaming, cutlery scraping incessantly across plates, and the ever-increasing whooshing of the coffee machine spitting out beverages in the small café. I searched the vault tucked away in my mind for something decent to write about, and as I pondered for the hundredth minute it hit me!

Today I’m going to reveal the title of my novel, and prologue while I’m in the throes of editing. Originally I was going to post a little sneak peek, but as I’m away on holiday next Sunday and access to the internet will be denied, I’ve decided to be generous and unveil it all. You lucky devils!

As I mentioned in my last post, my novel is indeed based on Werewolves with lots of contrasting ties to romance and action. After an endless search through the thesaurus, I realised I already had the title of my novel staring at me from the written pages. Annoyed at my stupidity I jumped with joy as I realised how perfectly fitting my title is.

OK, OK, I’ll stop with the mumbo jumbo and just tell you already! Ladies and gentlemen, the title of my novel is…..

Nature’s Destiny

I hope you are all as excited as I am to see/read this novel, and just to whet your appetite on this wonderful Sunday, here’s the prologue! Enjoy!

I’d been dreaming of him again. I couldn’t help it and I didn’t   even know who he was, yet here I was for the second night in a row, waking with the vision of him seared into my mind. He   was extremely handsome, tall and muscular. His hair was dark brown and cut short, and his eyes were an intense emerald green.
Unfortunately, I’d woken before anything good could happen. It was a nasty reminder that my arm really hurt, and that I needed to take some more painkillers.
Three nights before I’d been mugged! It had been my   usual day   of waking up, and rushing over to University to hear the lecturers babble on about making last-minute notes. Bearing in mind I have an exam at the end of the week; it   was a waste of my time. I’m as prepared as much   as I   need to be, besides, I’m taking a creative writing course and everybody knows it’s all about spontaneity and our creative ability. After all, we’re not going to know what the exam is until we get there, so it’s not like we can prepare   a story before! However, the   lecturers stipulated that I   had to   attend the revision classes otherwise they’d fail me! How unfair is that?
After Uni I was scheduled to work   at The Hybrid. I wait tables, pour drinks and listen to the constant chit-chat that fills the pub. It’s pretty boring, but the manager arranges my shifts around my Uni schedule so I can’t complain (much). I’ve been looking forward to the next few weeks to be over with for a while. I’ll be packing   my bags and heading out to see the   world. That’s the reason I took the job. I’ve saved every penny and not had a social life in   years! The thought of writing a   novel while travelling   the world held so much appeal that I didn’t much   care about ‘partying’. Besides, I live in   Wales, and there’s no way I’m staying here a minute longer than is necessary.
I was shattered from another long   day as I   walked to   my car after finishing work, and   that’s when   I was mugged! He came running at me,   and yanked at my bag, scratching my arm in the process. I tried to grab it back, pulling as hard as I could, but it was no use, my attacker was much stronger than I was, and it all happened so fast! I had no idea how my brain even registered that I   was being mugged. I guess reflexes really do work in the heat of the   moment!
If you could call it luck, I had my car keys in my hand ready to open the car when he’d attacked   me. However, everything else I carried like my phone and purse had been in my bag. My options were limited so I’d jumped in the car and headed towards the police station.   By the time I got there I   was a nervous wreck! Running on auto-pilot I recalled everything that happened. And that took forever!
The next day I’d   gone to the doctors to have my arm checked. It had swollen and was extremely red and itchy. In my opinion, it looked like it was infected, but I was prescribed   some strong painkillers and sent on my way. Nothing like a bit of sympathy!
It was still early and I had another day of revision ahead of me before my final exam tomorrow. Deciding I wouldn’t waste the morning moping in   bed, I grabbed a pair of joggers and a t-shirt, laced up my trainers and headed   out the door to take   a walk in the woods. It was promising to be a glorious day, the sun was rising and cast beautiful pink and orange rays throughout the sky. I couldn’t resist the urge to sit on the bench for a few minutes and watch nature pass me by. It was so tranquil.
As I sat gazing at the   sky my eyes began to sting, and my vision blurred, and like an elastic band, it snapped back into view, and   I could see everything. I could see the minuscule rain droplets on   the leaves across the path   glisten in the sunlight. My ears popped with a loud bang as I sneezed, sending my senses into overdrive! I could smell bacon, wait, what? The nearest café   is 20 minutes away! And the traffic! I can hear the cars speeding along the dual carriageway, and that’s miles from here!
I was obviously more tired than I’d thought, either that, or my painkillers were working really well. Odd how I hadn’t felt like this yesterday, though, perhaps I was having some delayed side effects! Were hallucinations even classed   as   a side effect? Oh, gosh, wouldn’t that just be my luck! There was noise coming   at me everywhere I turned, yet there wasn’t anybody here!
I ran back home, dashing into the house, and grabbed my towel intent on going to the shower. I waited for the water to warm up and   hoped it would ease away the tension. My stomach was in knots, and I had that horrible gut feeling that something wasn’t right with me. What was going on?
I lathered up my favourite coconut body wash and scrubbed down my body, avoiding the scratches on my arm. Wait a minute… They’ve gone! My arm is completely healed! How could that be? Less than 2 hours ago I was taking painkillers to help ease the pain! I stared at my arm again and noticed a faint scar in the shape of a bite mark. Huh,   that’s weird! I’m sure I hadn’t been bitten there before!
I gathered my towel around me and headed for the door when a wave of nausea hit me. I stumbled to the floor and   a   loud crack penetrated my skull. Crying out in pain, I felt a weird tickle in my mind. A loud dominant male’s   voice boomed through my thoughts.
   ‘You have been branded.   You are   a   Werewolf!’