Guest Post: Jen Selinsky

The One Thing I Cannot Quit

Have you ever been frustrated with something to the point at which you
felt you needed to quit? There have been many times in my life when I said
that I’m going to stop writing altogether. I was burned out and determined to
hang up my pen once and for all. For some unexplainable reason, I thought I
had already used up all my creativity; it was time to make way for all those
who were just starting off with something of their own to say.

One can guess how many times I’ve been successful at quitting
writing, and correct answer would be zero! The only time that I’ve come
relatively close was in 2010, when I went nearly seven months without writing
anything, except what was required for work. That failed trial was followed by
a literal explosion of words. I’d started writing more poetry and prose; my
muse returned with a vengeance, outraged that I tried to keep her locked up all
that time! As a result, I wrote lots more poetry and started two novels—one
which did not take me very long to complete.

There have been some more great bouts. One had started in 2013 and
came creeping all the way into 2014. I penned lots of poems, quotes, short
stories, essays, and had started three more big novels, a cookbook, and a
memoir. No wonder my poor mind felt so exhausted much of the time.
I was also tired of reading. My brain was officially on strike, and I
didn’t even want to digest any words! And when I did have to “choke down”
some literature, I tried to do so as quickly as possible.

2016 was a milestone for me. That was the year when I broke into
traditional publishing with Pen It! Publications. They initially accepted six of
my children’s picture books. And while I was very proud of each and every one
of my self-published titles, I was simply ecstatic to expand my horizons. I have
since had more titles published by Pen It! Publications, as well as gained
another publisher, Per Bastet Publications. As a result, I’ve earned more
respect as a local author and have sold more copies of my books at events.

In summation, let me just say one thing; I’ve reached the conclusion
that I cannot quit writing, it’s in my blood! I’ve come too far to abandon what I
set out to do all those years ago.

Review for Heart of a Lion

Hey All!!!

Today I have another book review, this time I am fortunate to be part of a blog tour for Stephen Zimmer who was looking for honest reviews of his newest novel Thunder Horizon: the second novel in the Dark Sun Dawn series. He graciously provided a PDF copy and I agreed to read it free of charge.

The series follows the journey of Rayden Valkyrie. Now prior to signing up for this tour I had not read either novel so I decided to review the first novel Heart of a Lion.  So without farther delay here it is.


Heart of a Lion follows warrior and hunter Rayden Valkyrie. She is honestly one of the best female protagonists I've seen. She isn't the slightest bit whiny has so many are in novels but she isn't so powerful that she is emotionless, rather she is a very caring person that is willing to go to great lengths to defend what she believes in. The characters are all very realistic, I've found it to be quite easy to forget you're reading a novel

This novel is fast paced and action packed, I personally think this novel is best suited for people aged 18 and up of course that is completly at the readers discreation.
I would describe this series as a cross between Lord of the Rings, Xena and maybe Game of Thrones.
The novel as a whole is incredibly well written with impeccable detail that makes you feel as though you are right there with them on the battlefield. I would definitely recommend this novel.

If anyone would like to buy either novel you can easily find them using one of the links below.  I've even included some still shots from Mr Zimmer's TV Pilot!
Well that's it for now.

Wishing you all happy reading!
                                                  -Trisha

About the author: Stephen Zimmer is an award-winning author and filmmaker based out of
Lexington Kentucky. His works include the Rayden Valkyrie novels (Sword and Sorcery), the
Rising Dawn Saga (Cross Genre), the Fires in Eden Series (Epic Fantasy), the Hellscapes short
story collections (Horror), the Chronicles of Ave short story collections (Fantasy), and the
Harvey and Solomon Tales (Steampunk).
Stephen’s visual work includes the feature film Shadows Light, shorts films such as The Sirens
and Swordbearer, and the forthcoming Rayden Valkyrie: Saga of a Lionheart TV Pilot.
Stephen is a proud Kentucky Colonel who also enjoys the realms of music, martial arts, good
bourbons, and spending time with family.

Book Synopsis for Thunder Horizon: A deadly menace stalks the shadows of the lands to the
north, stirring the winds of war. Farther south, the power of the Teveren Empire spreads with
every passing day, empowered by dark sorcery. Formidable legions bent on conquest are on
the march, slavery and subjugation following in their wake.
Within the rising maelstrom, Rayden Valkyrie has returned to the Gessa, to stand with the tribe
that once took her into their care as a child. No amount of jewels or coin can sway her, nor can
the great power of her adversaries intimidate her.
With a sword blade in her right hand and axe in her left, Rayden confronts foes both
supernatural and of flesh and blood. Horrific revelations and tremendous risks loom; some that
will see Rayden's survival in the gravest of peril.
Even if Rayden and the Gessa survive the trials plaguing their lands, the thunder of an even
darker storm booms across the far horizon.
Thunder Horizon is the second book in the Dark Sun Dawn Trilogy.

Book Synopsis for Heart of a Lion: Rayden Valkyrie. She walks alone, serving no king, emperor,
or master. Forged in the fires of tragedy, she has no place she truly calls home.

A deadly warrior wielding both blade and axe, Rayden is the bane of the wicked and corrupt. To
many others, she is the most loyal and dedicated of friends, an ally who is unyielding in the
most dangerous of circumstances.
The people of the far southern lands she has just aided claim that she has the heart of a lion.
For Rayden, a long journey to the lands of the far northern tribes who adopted her as a child
beckons, with an ocean lying in between.
Her path will lead her once more into the center of a maelstrom, one involving a rising empire
that is said to be making use of the darkest kinds of sorcery to grow its power. Making new
friends and discoveries amid tremendous peril, Rayden makes her way to the north.
Monstrous beasts, supernatural powers, and the bloody specter of war have been a part of her
world for a long time and this journey will be no different. Rayden chooses the battles that she
will fight, whether she takes up the cause of one individual or an entire people.
Both friends and enemies alike will swiftly learn that the people of the far southern lands spoke
truly. Rayden Valkyrie has the heart of a lion.
Heart of a Lion is Book One of the Dark Sun Dawn Trilogy.
Teaser Trailer Link for Rayden Valkyrie: Saga of a Lionheart TV Pilot:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v7w_UI_RCg4&t=34s
Embed Code for Teaser Trailer of Rayden Valkyrie Saga of a Lionheart TV Pilot
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/v7w_UI_RCg4"
frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Author Links:
Twitter: @SGZimmer
Facebook: www.facebook.com/stephenzimmer7
Instagram: @stephenzimmer7
Website: www.stephenzimmer.com

Tour Schedule and Activities
8/16 The Temple of the Exploding Head Guest Post

8/16 The Page Turner Guest Post
8/16 BOOKS TO CURL UP WITH Author Interview
8/16 Bookishly me Author Interview
8/16 DarWrites Guest Post
8/16 Sheila's Guests and Reviews Guest Post
8/16 Sapphyria's Books Guest Post
8/16 Deal Sharing Aunt Top Ten's List
8/17 DarWrites Review
8/17 Bookin Around Town Author Interview/Podcast
8/17 Full Moon Bites Character Interview
8/18 BOOKS TO CURL UP WITH Review
8/18 The Sinister Scribblings of Sarah E. Glenn Top Ten's List
8/18 I Smell Sheep Guest Post
8/19 Paranormal Pleasures Review
8/19 The Page Turner Review
8/19 Bella's Book Reviews Review
8/19 Jeni's Bookshelf Guest Post
8/20 3 Partners in Shopping, Nana, Mommy, & Sissy, Too! Guest Post
8/20 The Seventh Star Blog Guest Post
8/20 Stuart Thaman Books Guest Post
8/21 MyLifeMyBooksMyEscape Author Interview
8/21 SpecMusicMuse Author Interview
8/21 Jordan Hirsch Review
8/22 Beauty in Ruins Guest Post
8/22 Discover New Authors Author Interview
8/22 Butterfly's Booknerdia Blog Review
8/23 The Occult Detective Review
8/23 Bookishly me Review
8/23 Jeni's Bookshelf Review
8/23 Jorie Loves a Story Interview
8/23 Readers Life With Trisha Ratliff Review

Tour Page URL: http://www.tomorrowcomesmedia.com/stephen-zimmers- rayden-valkyrie-
celebration-blog- tour/

Tour Badge URL: http://www.tomorrowcomesmedia.com/wp-
content/uploads/2017/08/RaydenValkyrieTourGraphic.jpg
Amazon.com Links for Thunder Horizon:

Kindle Version
https://www.amazon.com/Thunder-Horizon- Dark-Dawn- Book-ebook/dp/B06ZZ7JT56/

Print Version
https://www.amazon.com/Thunder-Horizon- Dark-Dawn- Trilogy/dp/1941706576/

Barnes and Noble Link for Thunder Horizon:
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/thunder-horizon- stephen-
zimmer/1126268394?ean=9781941706572

Amazon.com Links for Heart of a Lion:

Kindle Version
https://www.amazon.com/Heart-Lion- Dark-Dawn- Book-ebook/dp/B00T44R6LE/
Print Version
https://www.amazon.com/Heart-Lion- Stephen-Zimmer/dp/1941706215/

Barnes and Noble Link for Heart of a Lion:
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/heart-of- a-lion- stephen-
zimmer/1121113044?ean=9781941706213

REVIEW: Journey To Love, by Nicole A. Schmidt

Hey All!!!


I was recently given the honor of reviewing Nicole A. Schmidts new poem collection "Journey To Love" which will be available on Valintines day 2017!

This book is quite different from her previous collection of poems, as you probably guessed this collection is about love and the journey you have to take in order to find it, This collection is geared towards a more mature crowd, her poems are formatted so that it feels as though you are having a conversation with her. This collection shows a more realistic side to trying to find love in the modern world. Just as with her first collection it does have a christian undertone but not so heavily that people with other beliefs would feel uncomforable.

To me this collection is every relatable and touching, as you read deeper and deeper into the collection you see the personal growth and you feel the powerful emotions as she learns who she is and what she wants. It is truely a powerful and inspirational collection, one I think is well worth a read.

Schmidt has a way of touching her readers and making contact with them on a personal level, in a way that I have never seen before. I highly reccomend her collections to anyone new to poetry or that's just wanting something different from the normal arrray of poetry. So check out "Journey to Love" on Amazon when it debuts on Tuesday!

Review for Nacreous by Sarah Elle Emm

Hey all, I just got done with Nacreous the 4th book in the Harmony run series by Sarah Elle Emm. It is a fasanating read filled with action and it keeps you on the edge of your seat.  Below is a summery from good reads.

After two members of The Freedom Front are arrested and interrogated by the UZTA's tyrannical President Nicks, Rain Hawkins and her friends face the alarming reality that their plans to liberate the mixed zones across the United Zones of The Authority might not come to fruition. While the resistance movement is growing outside the walls of the zones, the president's forces are strengthening and putting citizens everywhere in more peril than ever. When Rain receives warnings that her cousin, Calista, has agreed to support plans to kill the mixed zones, and that her life could be on the line at the upcoming pure zone initiation ceremony, she must decide where her loyalties lie and if all of her allies can be trusted. As The Freedom Front use their abilities to unravel the mystery of the ceremony, The Authority captures some of their friends, forcing TFF to either go into hiding, or plan a rescue mission that could jeopardize everything they've been fighting for.

It is a very entertaining novel that I highly recommend. 

Interview with Nicole A. Schmidt

Hey all,

Sorry for not blogging more but it's been a busy past few months. I recently reviewed poetry by Nicole A. Schmidt and was given the enormous honor of  interviewing her. Here is the interview I hope you all enjoy.


 1.Why did you write "Inside a young soul"? 

Initially I wrote the poems because I needed to vent. I wasn't a rebellious teen so this was my way of getting it all out. Even then, I knew I wanted to publish it so that others would know they weren't alone.

2.Why did you choose to put a “Notes, Reactions, write-a- like” area after each poem?

I wanted my readers to be able react to the text. I wanted them to have the opportunity to get their feelings out too, even their feelings were the opposite of mine. Teenagers are silenced much more than they should be.

3.Do you have a poem that is your favorite or that is the most personal?

I can't say I have a favorite, but I can say that I remember the exact instance or person each poem is about.

4.What was the idea behind these poems?  

It was my way to address my emotions. I couldn't share them with the person they were about so I wrote them down. They had to come out one way or another so that I could move forward.

5.You have spots after some poems for "Artistic representation", what are you hoping that youths will do with this page?

Some teens are intimidated by writing, especially poetry. I never intended for them write poetry in the notes section, but I'm sure many will assume so. The artistic representation just provides another avenue for expression. They can draw, paint, collage, whatever their hearts desire.

6.What are you hoping people will take from your poems?

I hope that they comfort those who can relate to the disappointments and struggles in the poems. I hope that the joy in some of them make people laugh and smile. I hope that my readers are able to reminisce about their own experiences. I hope that they are encouraged and realize that it if I can get past these things so can they. Finally, I hope that the book itself reminds them that dreams can be realized. In the poem "Excuuoooooze Me" I share my desire to attend Maryland, teach, and publish a book. All three goals gave been accomplished. If I can do it, so can my readers.

7.Why did you choose to write poetry? 

I'm musically inclined. I sing as well so poetry comes naturally to me.

8.Are you planning to publish more books of poetry in the future? 

I'm in the process of compiling the next collection entitled, Journey to Love: Vol. 1. It's about knowing that you will get married, but enjoying the journey until you do. This collection is also broken into sections and has reflection pages, but it will also include short essays. 

9.Did you have any poets that inspired you to write?

My favorite author is J. California Copper, who wrote short stories and novels. I enjoy Maya Angelo, Gwendolyn Brooks, Langston Hughes, etc, but they didn't inspire me. It has always been innate in me, it's in my DNA.

Review for Inside a young soul

Hey all, I have been reading a book by Nicole A. Schmidt.

Inside a young soul is a book of poems which she wrote when she was younger. This novel is very heartfelt and is very easy to relate to for a lot of women. It is targeted towards young teen girls and its poems cover religion, family, and relationships. It is very powerful, and it is hard to believe that she was so young while writing it. In the novel there are spots that are titled: Notes , Reactions, write-a -like" In other chapters there is spots for you to draw. It is very interactive and I highly recommend it to young adults and teens. It perfectly embodies what being a teenage girl feels like it.

Review for Suprnova by Braxton A. Cosby

Hey all,

I've finished Supernova by Braxton A. Cosby.  I know I have been posting a lot about his novels but honestly here recently the majority of the books I've read were his. Supernova is the 2nd book in the Protostar series, it takes place right after the first novel and follows William and Sydney while they try to discover more about the Star child existence. During the length of the novel she evolves into the next stage of star child. Supernova. William then does his best to figure out the truth behind what is making Sydney act so odd.

This novel is fast paced, it is extremely well written. I was very excited to find that this book is just as good as the first novel. In the past I have read saga's and trilogies just to find that the first book is good but the second book is lacking, I will get into why I'm not a fan of most trilogies and sagas at a later date.Cosby makes a flowing series that leaves the readers craving more. The characters grow over the course of the two novels and there is always something going on. I was very happy with this novel and I highly recommend any of his books. His novels never cease to amaze me, he is an incredible talent and is well worth a look.  For now Trisha signing off.