young adult literature

Torch Rock Teaser - Copy

I sit before my computer in a confusing state of satisfaction and sadness. The earliest files in my hard drive for Reflection Pond date back to early 2012, though I think the actual writing started in 2011. There are dozens and dozens of files, if not hundreds. In the grand scheme of writing, four or five years for three books is not a long time, I realize that, but those years defined who I am as a writer. I began the series scared, uncertain of my own capabilities, and I’ve emerged from the other side more confident, more sure of myself and the risks I’m willing to take in my stories.

Today is the release day for Torch Rock, Book 3 in the Reflection Pond Series, the final installment of Callie and Rowan’s story. Much like me, the characters have gone on a journey to find their strength, to heal, and I’m deeply satisfied with this ending. I hope you, my readers, find it just as enjoyable as I do. I’ve already been asked if I’ll ever return to Callie and Rowan’s world, to expand on the secondary characters in the story, to follow the seeds of possibility I left strewn throughout the final novel. The truth is, I don’t know. I do have some bonus content, deleted scenes and such that may become available at some point. But right now, the end is justified, and I like the idea of readers creating their own possible futures for Rowan and Callie. The characters we love live on inside of us, and I hope some parts of Callie and Rowan live on in each of you.

To celebrate the release, I’ve made Reflection Pond free for today! On May 7th, the series will tour with Brook Cottage Books. You can still sign up for the promo day HERE.

I want to thank everyone who has stood beside me as I completed these books, especially those who encouraged me and listened to my issues (over and over again for weeks, months, and years). You know who you are. Thank you to the bloggers, reviewers, and every fan who has contacted me. Your support and enthusiasm always puts a smile on my face. Huge thank yous to my early readers, ARC reviewers, and everyone who has been cheering on Callie from the beginning. A big thanks to my designer Julia at Bioblossom Creative, who always, always exceeds my expectations with her beautiful covers. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

The entire series is available on Amazon. If you want some music to read to, check out the playlists I’ve created for Reflection Pond and Torch Rock. And when you’re done reading, please leave a review, even if it’s just an I liked it!

Reflection Pond

Amazon Goodreads Playlist

Poison Tree

Amazon Goodreads

Torch Rock

Amazon Goodreads Playlist

It’s a cover reveal day! I’m very excited to present you with Sucker Literary Volume 3. As most of you know, the past year has been one of incredible growth for me in my writing career, including taking on the role of Social Media Director for Sucker Literary. Working with Hannah (the founding editor) who has such a passion for authors and writing, meeting new people, and attaining goals I never knew were possible, I’m so glad I found Sucker!

Let me tell you a little bit about the company before we get into the goodies that go along with the reveal. Sucker is a young adult literary anthology. It’s gritty, it has heart, it’s the kind of stories we all wanted to read in high school but never had access to. It’s the satisfaction you’re looking for from a well-written story. Hannah is serious about editing, but also fostering emerging authors to find their voice, and present the best possible version of their work. I swear, this woman has infinite patience, and I’ve learned so much from her in the short time we’ve worked together.

On the Sucker website, Hannah describes Sucker as this:

“Sucker Literary is a platform for established and emerging, hugely intelligent writers who have the grit and talent to create compelling, authentic young adult literature that both adults and teens can enjoy. We are a literary enterprise dedicated to showcasing and promoting undiscovered and established writers who write for young adults (this is not to be mistaken for young adult writers). We are not affiliated with any writer’s organization or program and welcome writers at any stage of their writing career/journey.”

Let’s get to the blurb for Volume 3!

Bullied and alone, Ainsley seeks refuge in the arms of a strange boy. Time is slipping away for overachieving Sadie Lin, but reigniting an old flame might help. Scarred by a pressuring ex, Alexandra finally faces the rain. “Pasty and chubby” Charlotte makes a public play for the “Tan and Smooth” king. The beautiful girl in the black, lacy push-up bra says that it’s time for Brenn to stop lying . . . at least to herself. A halfway house is no home for Dawn—or is it? How will Dana survive knowing everyone at school thinks she’s a monster, when they just may be right? JJ and her crush finally get a moment alone—at his girlfriend’s hottest party of the year. Sixteen-year old Sarah prepares for her first day of school by chaining up her Mamí in her bedroom. Alyssa’s life is a well-rehearsed ballet until a tragedy sends her hurtling towards a fall. Loving a boy is as simple as chemistry . . . unless that boy is an unstable element.

Eleven stories that delve into the depths of our experience—driven by fierce and untouched love that makes us seek, lose, fear, desire, long, reflect, survive, steal, protect, fall, and confess.

Sucker Literary Volume 3

Available April 15, 2014

And yeah, in case you’re wondering, I have a story in there. “How to Fall.” Alyssa’s life is a well-rehearsed ballet until a tragedy sends her hurtling towards a fall.

Everything about this anthology is beautiful, from the images, to the stories, to everyone who has put in so much time to make it happen. I love this “place”. Seriously.

www.suckerliterary.com

Twitter: @suckerlitmag

Add it on Goodreads!

Are you a reviewer interested in reviewing Sucker on your blog? Email me! suckerliterarymarketing (at) gmail (dot) com.

Below is the book trailer, designed by yours truly. Watch it, share it, let the world know that Sucker is bigger and better than ever, and we’re here to stay.