Monday, November 25, 2013

The writing of 'The Christmas Violin'

"The Christmas Violin" comes out Dec. 2, but you can pre-order now. 
...
I remember the morning as if it were minutes ago. Winter was tumbling into spring and I awoke from a dream that followed me like a shadow. 


I was standing on the stone steps of a cemetery. A young woman with beautiful red hair played the violin in front of a small granite tombstone in the shape of a teddy bear. I was mesmerized, watching her slender fingers dance as the violin bow tickled the strings.  She was playing a lullaby, a beautiful lullaby. 

From my perch, I saw an old homeless woman watching the violinist, peeking out of a cluster of arborvitae bushes. And I also saw a young man, dressed in a suit, watching the violinist from a few graves away. 

That’s the image I woke up with and I couldn’t get it out of my mind. Even when I tried pushing it aside to work on something else, it wouldn’t let me. It had a real attitude and, gosh darn it, I was going to listen. 

So I did.


Sunday, November 24, 2013

Check out the Prism Book Group sale

Check out the books at Prism Book Group and receive a 25 percent discount using the code below, just in time for Christmas1

Friday, November 22, 2013

The Yearbook Series: Sue and Tom is available

The Yearbook Series: Sue and Tom is now available on Kindle. WOOT!


This is the second book in The Yearbook Series. The first, Gina and Mike, was released in August.


REVIEW: "The second in the Yearbook Series, "Sue and Tom" will help restore the hope that love can be found again. Like her first book "Gina and Mike", Buffy Andrews pulls you into the story within the first few lines. From there I assure you, you will not be able to put it down! It deals with some very sensitive life issues such as infidelity, insecurity, jealousy, and intimacy. Be forewarned though, it is not predictable and some parts will totally surprise, if not shock you!! It will make you gasp, laugh, blush, cry and at times say "WOW" out loud! You have to read this book!!"



REVIEW: "After surviving the traumatic and emotional story of Gina, I was excited to read about Sue and the sweet character, Tom. Sue is Gina's steadfast friend and Tom provided support to Gina she didn't even know about during the most difficult part of her past. Sue and Tom's story is beautiful: a mix of struggle and the development of trust and love. I was hooked by the simple and straightforward opening line, and I couldn't put it down from that point forward! The characters in this series are consistent and you learn something new about them with every new story. I can't wait for book 3 :)"

Other books currently available:

The Moment Keeper

The Christmas Violin

Thursday, November 21, 2013

Wednesday, November 20, 2013

Meet Mary Ball, author of 'Stone of Destiny'



Meet my colleague, author Mary Ball of North Carolina, author of "Stone of Destiny."

About the book:

Can a mysterious ring change lives?
 
The sapphire symbolizes mental clarity, faithfulness and truth. For centuries, a legend in the Harrison family revolved around a ring.
Taylor Harrison has given up on everything but her work. The youngest CEO of Mugful’s Beverage Company, her life is complete. That is, until her grandmother asks her to oversee renovations at the family home and find the missing heirloom.
First contact with what she believes is an insignificant ring, lost for fifty years, sends her life spinning. Taylor experiences strange dreams. Feelings surface; she doesn't understand; thoughts that should remain
unspoken, voiced. 
 Taylor’s emotional journey begins, testing a heart as cold as the ring itself. 
Is this a fairy-tale or her soul, reaching out for a life she can only find through faith and trust in God?  

Connect with Mary:

Website 




 
Q&A


Q. Where and when do you prefer to do your writing?
A. I enjoy the early morning hours. I do my best writing in my home office when everyone else is asleep. 

Q. Best piece of writing advice. 
A. Never give up your story idea, if it isn't working, just change it around a little.
 
Q. One thing that you would like your readers to know about you. 
A. I live in a small town and enjoy rural living.

Q. Share one of your favorite quotes. 
A. "In my writing, as much as I could, I tried to find the good and praise it." by Alex Haley

Q. When I’m not writing, I’m ... 
A. reading or fishing.

Sunday, November 17, 2013

Cause a Ripple and make a difference


I've been wanted to share this for some time. Big hug to my friend, Sharon McGowan Kirchoff, who always inspires me. 

When I first learned about Cause a Ripple, I knew instant
ly that I wanted to be a part of it. I loved the story that inspired the website, product and movement. I’ve always believed strongly in giving back to the community, helping others when I am able. Sharon began Cause a Ripple after listening to a sermon that spoke to her and she shares this story on the website. I encourage you to read the “808 Story.” I know that you will find it as inspiring as I have.

I love the idea of Spreading the Ripple and the gift set is a simple yet profound way of acknowledging those in our life who have inspired us. it’s also a neat way to offer words of encouragement and support.

The stone I was given sits on my desk and is a daily reminder that what I do and say can make a difference. I never take that lightly, and I hope that the ripples I’ve caused will be felt long after I’m gone.

If you are looking for a gift to give someone starting a new job or journey, someone who might be facing challenges in their life and could use your encouragement, someone who has inspired you to be a better person, I encourage you to explore Cause a Ripple.

As our minds and our hearts prepare for the Advent season, you might want to consider giving the stone as a gift to that special someone in your life. It would make a great stocking stuffer as well.

I believe that Sharon has the start of something good, and I encourage you to be a part of it. I think that together, we can make a difference, and Sharon and Cause of Ripple can help lead the way.



Saturday, November 16, 2013

Meet Dan Beard, author of 'Santa's Magic Bootprints'


Meet my friend Dan Beard, author of "Santa's Magic Bootprints.

Dan not only wrote this wonderful storybook but created an entire activity packet that includes 15 reusuable, self-adhesive bootprints; a special "North Pole Air Mail" envelope, a sing and read along disc and a "Christmas Together Instruction and Idea Guide." 

He also created a website for this product that includes videos as well as tips for enjoying the story with your family.

The story:

http://www.santasmagicbootprints.com/images/bootprint_new_gold.png "Santa’s Magic Bootprints" tells the story of how Santa forgets one of his reindeer’s names, and how, in turn, Mrs. Claus discovers a magical dust that ensures Santa will never miss any homes while delivering gifts to children. 

The book is available on Amazon and on the website.

Connect:


Q&A

Q. How did you come up with the idea/concept for this book?  

A. Our first grandchild, Ryan, upon experiencing his first "grown- up" Christmas at the ripe old age of 2, asked me, “Poppi why doesn’t Santa Claus leave his tracks behind?” The idea inspired me to write a rather detailed story- rhyme as to how and why Santa's Bootprints will now suddenly appear in homes all around the world on Christmas morning

Dan Beard's grandson provided the inspiration
 for 'Santa's Magic Bootprints.'
Q. What's your favorite thing about Christmas?
A. Being with all the Family and especially the grandchildren

Q. Favorite Christmas movie? 
A. "Miracle on 34th Street"

Q. Real tree or artificial tree? 
A. Definitely Real

Q. What is something about you that readers might be surprised to learn? 
A. U.S. Paratrooper; Founded the Auto Locator Magazine in 1979


Friday, November 15, 2013

Cover reveal: The Yearbook Series: Sue and Tom


I'm super excited to share the cover of Book 2 in The Yearbook Series: Sue and Tom. I love the cover and I love the book. I hope you do, too. The book will be out this month. As soon as the date is nailed down, I'll be sure to let you know.

Also, to celebrate Book 2 in the series, we have an awesome giveaway. My publisher Limitless Publishing is giving away 5 ebook copies of Sue and Tom. Enter below.



a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tuesday, November 12, 2013

This review made my day

This review for "The Moment Keeper" made my day. Thank you to all of my readers. I am truly blessed. 

REVIEW: I love Buffy Andrews' writing! Once again she has written a story that will pull you in from the minute you start reading! Andrews' imagination and creativity are truly amazing. The premise behind the story made me wonder if Moment Keepers do in fact exist. I loved the main characters Sarah and Olivia. At times it was so heart-breaking to see how unfair life can be sometimes. You are drawn in and feel such a part of each of their lives. There is such a powerful message about life, love and unanswered questions, the ending was phenomenal. I wish this book was available in print! I am not fond of reading electronically and would love to have a copy to keep and re-read many times over, wearing the pages thin! I give this book and A++

Photos from book signing



Monday, November 11, 2013

Meet author Margaret Fieland



Meet fellow author Margaret Fieland, author of "Geek Games." Margaret lives in Millis, Mass.

Books:


When fourteen-year-old Martin lets Tom, a charismatic bully, persuade him to bring down the spaceport computer network, he never considers someone will place a bomb resulting in the death of his friend's father. Nothing will bring Captain Frey back, but if Martin can help locate the terrorists' drug lab, perhaps he'll be able to forgive himself.
Available Nov. 29

Other Books





 Q&A


Q. Where and when do you prefer to do your writing?
A. Given my druthers, early morning, either in my room sitting on the bed or at the dining room table.

Q. Best piece of writing advice
Keep writing.

Q. One thing that you would like your readers to know about you
I can write backward and wiggle my ears. I taught my middle son to wiggle his when he was in middle school. His teacher was less than thrilled.

Q. Share one of your favorite quotes.
"Writing is no trouble, you just jot down ideas as they occur to you. The jotting is simplicity enough - it is the occurring which is difficult." -- Stephen Leacock

Q. When I’m not writing, I’m ... listening to music, reading, or searching out more reading material.



Connect:










Sunday, November 10, 2013

'The Yearbook Series: Gina and Mike' FREE today


If you haven't read "The Yearbook Series: Gina and Mike" you can get it FREE today. 

Book 2 in the series, "Sue and Tom," is coming soon.

Also, don't miss "The Moment Keeper" and the soon-to-be-released "The Christmas Violin."


Friday, November 8, 2013

WOW! Read this Moment Keeper review

Check out the latest review for The Moment Keeper.

A tragic end...a new beginning... The Moment Keeper touched my heart, bring back a flood of "moments" from my own life.

Sarah, growing up feeling alone and abandoned, on the outside edges of life, now having to chose between starting over, or dropping out of the race, decides she would rather die than face the future alone.


Olivia, so wanted, so loved, and so privileged...living a life that Sarah could only dream about, finds herself facing the same challenges that drove Sarah to the end of her life.


The story that ties these two lives together is shared with us by "The Moment Keeper". Sarah's life ends...Oliva's life begins. All of the hopes and dreams of these two extremely different girls are shared with the reader in such a unique way, that you are drawn into the story...The reader feels as though they know both of these young ladies personally. I know that that silly old line "I laughed, I cried" has become a punchline for jokes, but in this case, well...I laughed and I cried. I loved the concept of Moment Keepers, and I hope that one day I will be chosen as a Moment Keeper, too. This story of love, life, tragedy and hope, shared with the reader by The Moment Keeper is sad, beautiful, complex, and completely believable.


The real tragedy here is that this book is only available as an e-book. As the owner of a bookstore, there are literally thousands of people that I would love to share Sarah and Olivia's beautiful story with, but alas, bookstore customers are not fond of electronic readers.
To the e-reading public I offer this advice: Download this novel. Read anything that you can find by Buffy Andrews. You will not be disappointed!


To the publishers, I offer this advice: Publish everything ever written by Buffy Andrews in paperback format. You are missing a huge chunk of the reading public by keeping her tethered to electronic publishing. I would love to be recommending her books to my customers...but....

Thursday, November 7, 2013

Meet Muse It Up author Eric Price


Win this T-shirt
Meet my Muse It Up colleague Eric Price. He's super excited about his upcoming release, "Unveiling the Wizards’ Shroud," which comes out Nov. 22. 

It’s available to pre-order now from MuseIt Up Publishing.  If you pre-order it, save your confirmation number and enter it into the rafflecopter giveaway for a chance to win a T-shirt (right) featuring the beautiful cover art by CK Volnek. Eric says he'll even scribble his name across the shirt, if you'd like.

Note: Available in all sizes. For US mailing addresses only, sorry. Non-US readers, if you pre-order, keep your confirmation number as well. I have more giveaways planned for after the release.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Connect with Eric


Here's an excerpt from his book:

The cool night air blew in Cedric's face. His new beard, now reaching the neck of his cloak, ruffled in the breeze. He hoped the sound of rustling leaves and tree branches would help mask his own sounds as he sneaked behind Argnam's cabin.
With his staff, he drew the outline of a door on the back wall. He stepped away, and the line started glowing faint chartreuse. Within the outline, the wall almost vaporized to dust. It piled on the ground as quiet as a phantom. The chirping crickets didn’t even break from their merry song.

Monday, November 4, 2013

Please vote for me on Goodreads

Please vote for me on Goodreads: Write in "The Moment Keeper" in the debut author category:

And write in "The Yearbook Series: Gina and Mike" in the romance category.


Note that in order to get the write-in box, you have to sign into Goodreads (should be at top of page).

Thanks for your help!

Chance to win free Kindle Fire

Limitless Publishing, the publisher of The Yearbook Series: Gina and Mike (and soon-to-be released The Yearbook Series: Sue and Tom) is giving away a free Kindle Fire. Enter today.


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Saturday, November 2, 2013

The Moment Keeper Release Party

From The Moment Keeper release party at The York Emporium.






Meet Shane Scollins: Author of The Bone Room



Meet fellow Limitless Publishing author Shane Scollins. Shane's book The Bone Room was recently released. 


Here's the skinny:

Detective Roman Stone is working hard to rebuild the career he nearly destroyed. 

When he gets called to Alexandria Bay, NY to help the small town police force find a popular missing teenager, random human bones start washing up on the shores of the St. Lawrence River and one simple case becomes the the biggest mystery of his life. 

Chasing clues leads Roman to local historian Becca Quinn, who is the only one willing to show him around the old castles in the area. Becca heads up the Thousand Island Preservation Society and spends her days working to restore some of the island mansions for a new tourism initiative. The last thing she expects is to become part of the investigation, and for her life to be in danger.



What they find is something no one could imagine...

Something strange is lurking under the murky surface of the river waters, and a powerful local family is hiding secrets that could unravel the entire mystery.


About Shane:


Shane is a freelance writer and Amazon best-selling author. Originally from New Jersey, he now lives in upstate New York with his wife, Heather. He has a degree in computer science and has worked as an automotive service manager, a website developer and a computer network engineer. In his spare time, he enjoys playing ice hockey, riding his mountain bike, and strumming on his guitar. Primarily a SciFi and paranormal novelist, Shane enjoys taking readers on surprising and unexpected journeys that twist reality. 

Connect with Shane:







Q&A

Q. Do you see writing as a career? 
A. I do see writing as a career. I’ve always been a creative person, and for some reason I’ve never quite fit into the regular 9-to-5 life. I’ve had a lot of different jobs over the years, but I’ve never been able to put together a sustained career. I got a degree in computer and worked as a network engineer but for various reasons that didn’t work out either. I always end up coming back to writing. It’s always been there for me whether writing books or articles, writing has always been what I go back to when nothing else seems to work. I take it serious and it is my focus right now. … I’m grateful to be in the position to do what I love doing. The rewards come from my fans enjoying my stories. When I get a good review or a special message from a fan saying how much they enjoyed reading my work, that’s a payment that no amount of money can buy. That’s what a career should be about, it should be about doing what you love. 

Q. Who or what is your inspiration?
A. My inspiration comes from so many different places. I never really know where it’s going to originate. The people in my life inspire me daily. Friends in the flesh and on social media inspire me to create great characters and to be a better person. My fans inspire me to be a better writer. But I’m constantly inspired by the world around us.


Friday, November 1, 2013

The Moment Keeper reviews

Couldn't wait to share the first reviews for The Moment Keeper.


REVIEW: I completely fell in love with the book's main characters, starting with Sarah, the Moment Keeper for Olivia. The concept of each of us having a Keeper of the moments of our lives is intriguing. Who is our Moment Keeper and why are we chosen for each other? You'll see as the story unfolds that even the Moment Keepers themselves don't quite understand why they were chosen until the exact moment they are meant to. Both Sarah and Olivia, with their differing lives, have a great deal of life insight to offer us. Their stories are intense, emotional, upsetting, and wonderful at different times. I can identify with both main characters, as well as others, such as Olivia's mom. If you are interested in a book that really makes you think about life and its many questions, you may very well adore this lovely story about Olivia and her Moment Keeper, Sarah.

REVIEW: I love the concept behind Andrews' novel: That each of us has a moment keeper, a spirit responsible for keeping track of every moment in our lives, even--or perhaps, especially--those moments that seem small at the time but evolve into life-changing memories. Andrews wove this concept into a beautiful story, one that touched my heart and will stay with me forever. I recommend this book to anyone who has questioned faith and fate (so basically everyone). You will fall in love with and root for these characters.

REVIEW: The Moment Keeper is a story of two girls' journey into adulthood, and how the choices they make influence their lives. The book tells the story of Olivia and her moment keeper Sarah, whose own life was cut tragically short. The characters are so relatable, it's easy to recall those junctions where a decision changed your life. THe Moment Keeper is about love, loss, relationships, and how they influence our lives. Share this book with your daughter, your mother, and the other women in your life.

REVIEW: I was instantly captivated by this story and its premise of a moment keeper that stays alongside you, recording and tracking every moment of your life. Sarah is Olivia's moment keeper and the contrast between the character's circumstances could not be more pronounced. Despite this, Sarah lovingly looks on as Olivia experiences moments from her first steps to her first kiss and unfailingly records each moment.

This story will stick with you long after you've read the last word. Andrews has managed to craft characters that are unique yet familiar, it is impossible not to fall in love with and root for both of them. The girls are brought together through a terrible tragedy and as Olivia's moment keeper, we see Sarah continue to evolve and grow into the woman she would have become.

This story is haunting and leaves you thinking about each moment of your life and how it may intertwine with that of another.



The Moment Keeper is now available

Buy on Amazon
Totally doing a happy dance. The Moment Keeper is NOW available.

Our lives are often connected in ways we never would have imagined...

Two babies; two very different upbringings. 

First there is Sarah: raised by her loving grandmother, but neglected by her own father who views her as the instrument of her mother’s death. She will lead a hard life, searching to belong and to be loved.

Then there is Olivia, surrounded by love, nurtured and adored by her parents, a golden child with a golden future.

When Sarah’s life is cut tragically short and she is assigned to record the moments of Olivia’s life as her Moment Keeper, their lives become intertwined.

Sarah is able to overcome the heartbreak of her own lost years and Olivia is able to deal with a future that isn’t nearly as golden as what she had planned – or is it?

RELEASE PARTY: 7 tonight at The York Emporium, 334 W. Market St., York, Pa.