Today Rosalie Skinner's fabulous fantasy series Chronicles of Caleath,Book One is released by MuseItUp Publishing. It is my pleaure and priviledge to share in her special day.
Hi Wendy,
Thanks for your enthusiasm and support. Yes, after book one is released in September, each month there will be another snippet of the chronicles available. Each book is novel size. No short stories here. J
Wow! That is fantastic.
What prompted you to start this story about Caleath?
I have always been an avid reader of Fantasy. So when the local library ran out of new books to read and my favourite authors took too long between releases, my friend and I decided to create our own. That was many years ago and from those early plots and characters Caleath and Nasith remain. Otherwise there isn’t much from those days.
Why did you choose the fantasy genre to tell his story?
Caleath’s story is a mix of fantasy and science fiction, mainly because they are genres I have read and loved since childhood. For a moment in time, probably while ink was drying on the first chapter, for the first time, I believed writing fantasy meant I wouldn’t need much research. The illusion didn’t last long and research became part of the joy of creating the story, rather than a chore.
Without introducing too many spoilers, you mean? ;)
On his home world, Caleath was obsessed with Virtual Reality games. His determination to become the ultimate Game Master blinded him to the risks he took. When competitions have whole galaxies as their audience, the mistake of publically humiliating the son of a powerful magnate sealed Caleath’s fate.
Now his struggle to survive on a strange planet is made more difficult as assassins, sent by the same magnate’s son, try to kill him.
There is no secret to how I took inspiration from Survivor and Big Brother, as each move of Caleath’s adventure becomes compulsive viewing for the same audience he once entertained in Virtual Reality.
Only this time it’s life and death... and he is desperate to find a way home and wreak vengeance on man who arranged his exile.
Ah, now I see the connection with Big Brother. That hadn’t struck me before.
Did you write the story from beginning to end? If not, how did you write it?
Yes, the plot flowed from beginning to end. There are times I try to plan plot arcs but truth be told, when the muse is on fire, there isn’t time to plan. During the second or third edit the plot becomes more polished, but at the time of writing, it is each character’s motives and choices that push the story. The outcome is determined well before the draft is written. All else depends on how the characters behave when faced with decisions.
What do you like about writing?
I love being transported to another world. Being part of the lives and struggles of my characters, seeing their journeys come to fulfilment... placing different obstacles in their path, twisting fate and bringing strands of different lives together through adversity and trial, to find their strengths, see them grow and achieve an outcome, in a satisfying manner... that’s what I love. When others read and enjoy Caleath’s tale, well, that is the most satisfying thing of all.
What don't you like about writing?
That it is an obsession I cannot control. If I am writing... doing anything else is frustrating. Life gets in the way. There is no writing for five minutes at a time. When I write, I am obsessed. Until the scene or the chapter is complete, nothing intrudes. Thankfully I have a very supportive family. There are times though when they wonder at my sanity.
Is there anything about the writing process that you found surprising?
LOL. What a great question. I will admit that I was surprised how difficult the art of writing is to master. Today I feel I am beginning to understand the most basic of writing skills, but each day I find there is more I don’t know, more to learn. The act of penning a story, getting a manuscript down, is the easy part. It did come as a surprise, to discover that. Everything after waiting for the ink to dry is difficult.
Yes, I know what you mean. It’s surprising how much you actually learn once you get started. Are any story lines based on things that have happened to you or you have heard about?
There are so many of the story lines that are influenced by life’s experiences. Not only my own, but experiences I have witnessed and shared. The rest are things I have experienced, studied, watched, and heard about, but having said that, liberal amounts of imagination have been applied.
What advice would you have for other authors?
Keep reading, keep writing, keep learning and keep an open mind. Don’t ever give up. Complete your manuscript before you worry about the fine details. They will shine with the polish you apply during edits.
What are you passionate about?
Family, life, love and being a source of positive energy. Oh, yeah, and writing. LOL. I am passionate about my books and the support and energy of those people who have helped me get them to where they are today!
Where can we get to know you better?
Come and visit my blog at Ramblings from Lady Rosalie or you can contact me through the official Chronicles of Caleath website. I have an author page at Museitup Publishing too.
From today you can purchase Exiled: Autumn’s Peril here.
This is a very exciting day, Rosalie. Congratulations on the launch of your Chronicles of Caleath with this beautiful Book One.
Thank you so much for being my guest today.
Wendy it has been a pleasure. Thanks for having me here.
Just one more thing :) Would you favour us with a short excerpt, please Rosalie?
From Exiled: Autumn’s Peril...
My pleasure... a short excerpt from Exiled: Autumn’s Peril...
Despite his determination, sleep overwhelmed him but offered no peace of mind. Scrutinized by the sightless eyes of drowned men, panic plagued his dreams. Hungry for vengeance and corrupted by the stench of watery decay, their angry spirits sought to destroy his sanity.
In his vision, strands of hair washed like seaweed across the disintegrating flesh of dead sailors. Tides of marine scavengers reduced humanity to bare bone and memory. Ghostly accusations spread on the current to drown him in guilt. Lifeless skulls and partially devoured corpses of the recently drowned whispered curses. They laid the blame for their demise on his shoulders. Fleshless fingers reached through the depths to draw him into Death’s grasp while parasitic wraiths gnawed at his soul and his lungs filled with the fetor of a carnivore’s breath.
Caleath woke from the nightmare. Daylight drove barbs into his eyes, forcing him to blink before he could focus on the muzzle of a salivating wolf.
Fangs gleamed inches from his face and amber eyes regarded him without blinking.
And now we await Book Two which comes out next month.
Dear readers, Stay right here! YOU are invited to join Rosalie's Launch Party, by way of these comments, and have a chance to win a copy of Exiled Autumn's Peril. Winner will be chosen on 9th September.
Best leave an email address or check back on the 9th.
Anyone who entered the competition on Rosalie's blog, during the week, just leave your code number in the comments, here, to claim your prizes.
Now we'll start the cyber party in the comments. Good Aussie food and drink and banter. All for FUN. Come back during the day to continue the fun.
LET THE PARTY BEGIN
155 comments:
Good morning Wendy... what a wonderful second day of Spring we have here in the magical land of OZ.
Thank you so much for hosting the launch of book one!!
Happy Launch Day!! **POP** Have some champagne to celebrate! We might have to mix it with some orange juice at this early hour. ;) Champagne breakfast! **Drops a strawberry in the champagne glass and hands one to Rosalie** Enjoy!
Hello! Thanks for hosting the book party, Wendy, and Rosie, congrats! This is so exciting! It's still technically Thursday where I am, but tomorrow a friend and I are going to continue celebrating together. We're going to have Sparkling Apple Cider, perhaps mixed with a bit of Sake, and a giant choco-peanut butter brownie! Many congratulations again! Oh, and my code words were Jade, Opal, and Silver.
*sips champagne* Cheers Fire Mummy!!!Thank you. Never too early to start celebrating.
Breezy, I am becoming very fond of strawberry and lime cider! Very smooth and sweet and drinkable, but it does have a punch. Might have to keep it to cyber punch.
The peanut butter brownie sounds awesome...bring a plate with you. I could go a fresh cooked cookie, a bit later on!! Congrats on your prizes. Thanks for entering the comp.
We are enjoying a champagne breakfast. My little brown hen has laid me an egg.
And the strawberries are fresh and the champus is chilled. :) There is pavlova and lamingtons here... the bbq will be firing up soon. Settle in and help yourself to the champagne. Have you met Fire Mummy, she's in charge of the champagne for now.
I think I'll hold off on the champagne for now; I don't usually consume alcohol (outside of communion, I've had one small glass of Sake, that's it), plus I'm currently sipping some Japanese Sencha tea. You must try the stawberry cheesecake; I polished off a piece this morning in honor of the occassion. Cheers!
Good morning Caleath! This is your Happy Birth Day. Sit right over there next to old mage and enjoy the show. hehehe.
You must be feeling quite excited to have the 1st in your series published by the dynamic MIU, Rosalie.
Hi FireMummy, I'll have what you're having! You will be performing your Fire Dance when the crowd arrives won't you?
Hey, good to see you Breezy-E. Time is irrelevant in cyber space. This party could go on for days. So please breeze in and out whenever you like. Bring your friend tomorrow, and a plate or two of the choco-peanut butter brownies. Your are clever to have won 3 times!
Cheesecake... yumm... I won't say no to that. Thank goodness for the 'no calorie' clause or I could feel myself spreading considerably today.
Hi Wendy,
Wow, I am already feeling the champagne.. We must press Fire Mummy into spinning later. It would really set the atmosphere alight!!!
Thanks for hosting us here today.
*aside to Wendy* Do you think Cal should sit next to the mage? Hmm.. I guess he should be in a good mood today. :)
I can't tell you whether or not Rosalie or 'moi' is more excited about the release of her series. I fell in love with the books about 3-4 years ago when I had the pleasure of reading two of the books, and they've struck an accord with me ever since. When I saw Rosalie submitting I literally fell off my chair because I was truly humbled and honored to have this series in our fine line-up at MuseItUp.
Many congrats, Rosalie, and here's wishing you success.
(Aside to Rosalie) He'll be right. If you are worried about the wzard's hex, I have a caged Track - a big one - in the wings. You can let it loose if there's trouble. :))
oh my spelling urgh. a caged 'Tarack'
So, Tallowbrand, given your... situation, can you even consume food? Cal, how've you been? I bet you're pretty excited, too! Now, we just need some food suitable for our dragon friend over there...
Thanks Lea, for your enthusiasm. It was Wendy who told me about Museitup Publishing. Without you and Wendy the books would still be gathering dust. So, I would like to propose a toast to both of you, for seeing this to fruition. *Cheers*
There are plenty of exotic rally drivers in Coffs this week... they might tempt the dragon. As for Tallowbrand.. hmm.. cyber food might be perfect!!
Wendy keep that Tarack caged!! PLEASE..
Welcome dear Publisher. This is a big day for you too. How fortunate that Rosalie's series wasn't published in 2008. One person's loss in another one's gain. hehehe. At MuseItUp her books found a much better, more professional and loving home.
Here Lea, have some ouzo. Caramel cheesecake?
Hmm... It's going to be difficult to write while at a party, I think. Especially since I'm going back to add a scene I should have had before... Gwilt, stop playing with my computer!
The series sounds magical. So of course it came to Muse!
Hi Gail, Thanks for coming, grab a glass and name your poison. The champus is chilled and the strawberries are fresh.
There's plenty of pavlova lamingtons or cheesecake.
Watch out for dragon droppings. She's wrecking the lawn! At least the house is still standing. I won't complain.
Breezy, Gwilt's been itching to get onto a computer. It might be interesting to see what he googles!!
...I think he's googling wolf pictures. And breeds. And a Youtube video of a fox on a trampoline...
Gail, we don't have rattlesnakes here, but the it's spring, so there are lots of flowers on the fence! The jasmine is competing with the portwine magnolia for strongest scent.
Having read the blurb for 'Miami Days and Tuscan Knights', I think Tess would fit in well here. She and Cal might be able to swap hints on surviving in strange worlds.
Breezy, LOL.. that makes sense. I am glad he didn't bring his wolf with him. My dogs might be its breakfast.
It's quiet... too quiet... Wait, did everyone fall asleep? Wait, how much champagne have you lot drunk?! Gwilt, you're underage! And you, Tallowbrand, I didn't expect it from you! Maybe I'll go home to bed myself... I'll be back tomorrow.
Told you the cider packed a punch.. or have we all fallen asleep under a spell?
*yawn*
I should switch to coffee for a while. Anyone else want some?
Excellent interview and what a great party. I've my glass of champagne in one hand and my plate with shrimp and kangaroo sausage in the other. Now if only I could figure out how to eat...
LJ, come and share the table. There's a comfy chair free somewhere.
So glad the bbq is fired up now. Getting a bit peckish. The shrimp look good. The kangaroo, done to a turn!!
So, what has been happening in your world?
Hold on, Gotye is on the radio... must turn the music up!!
Now, what were you saying...
LJ, I love your review of Jane Eyre, I laughed out loud, to think Heathcliffe wasn't in it.
I could have so easily wondered that too!!!
How's your champagne... want a top up?
Great interview, Wendy and Rosalie.
I agree with your thoughts about writing. It does become a type of drug, which does away with any sense of boredom, of wondering how to fill your days. Through writing you meet wonderful friends with whom you always have something to discuss. Writing makes life exciting as you pen what you hope is the next bestseller. All the best with your great books, Wendy and Rosalie. May you write many moe for for us to enjoy. Laurel
Thanks Laurel. Glad you could make it. Have you found the champagne, or would you prefer coffee, cider or ouzo?
The bbq is hot, steaks sizzling.. What can I get you?
You are right too.. only another writer would understand the obsession. ;)
Writing and working towards the next project prevents boredom ever being a problem.
Speaking of making friends, do you know everyone?
Hi Gail, are you mingling. You book Miami Days and Tuscan Knights -what an evocative title-sounds like a blending of cultures. Fascinating. Spring days & nights in Oz might have a similar effect on a reader, do you think?
What do you think, LJ? Californian autumns/fall might have a blend of Miami and Tuscany. We all have orange groves. Lovely you can be here. Thanks for coming. Everyone! you should pop over to LJ's blog (booksaremagic) and look at her 'share a square' blankets. It's such a worthy cause.
I'm glad you liked the interview Laurel. Thank you. You don't drink tea do you? Did you bring that lasagne. I'll have some please. BTW. I finished your Crossroads to Isca last night. Steamy in places. You shocked me. Compelling story that will stay with me for a long time.
Bring on the dancing girls.
Congratulations, Rosalie! What an exciting day. I can hardly wait to meet Caleath. :)
For this special occasion, I brought some Faery Special Peach Cobbler, a big ol' batch of sizzlin' chili, and some salty margaritas on the rocks. Oh, and for an encore, I brought my posse of brawny male dancers led by none other than my marshal. Sit back and enjoy.
I believe I'll dip into that strawberry cheesecake and chase it with a snort or two of sake.
May you sell a wagonload of books!
Jacquie
Jacquie, Faery Special Peach Cobbler, yummo! Thank goodness there are no calories involved. I will take one of those Margaritas while the dancing girls vie with your brawny dancing fellows. Oh, your marshal is so cute with his chaps and the way he wear his hat!! I have had enough champagne to make Much Ado about Marshals!!
Rosalie and Wendy in communal celebration -- Happy Launch Day: Where's bottle of champers - guide me in that direction, if you will. I've brought a plate of hot Tawny Taters for those that fancy them. Great interview Rosalie and Wendy.
Hi Carole, over here . If it isn't Miss #INA September herself!! Congratulations Carole, what an achievement and what great benefits. Make the most of all that promotion. OOH tawny taters? I'll have some of those. Thank you and then we'll share some of Jacquie's cobbler. Hold out your glass for some champers? Pink? No. I prefer the regular, too, infact I'm happy with a simple white, Toi Toi is my flavour this month.
Tawny taters... count me in!!! Are there enough to go around?
Where is my glass? I think I left it by the cheesecake.
At this stage of the day, I don't care if the champus is pink or white. Just fill my glass. Thanks Carole and congratulations too!!! Did you try the kangaroo sausages?
Congrats on the release of the first book of you series, Rosalie. It's great that your fans won't have to wait too long for the next 'fix'.
Hey, Wendy, nice interview. Can I have an ouzo, too?
I wonder why Caleath is so silent. Maybe he's mad at you, Rosalie, because of all the things you've put him through.
Maybe Wendy should interview him next. :-)
LOL Edith,
Don't tell him I am responsible for his plight. Shhh.. Goodness if he discovered that...
Definitely be a better idea for Wendy to interview him. I might go into hiding.
Here, let me fill your glass. Wendy seems to be deep in conversation out by the bbq. I think she's persuading Fire Mummy to spin fire for us.
Oops, I hope Caleath didn't hear me. Sorry, Rosalie, and thanks for the drink. Better make sure FireMummy doesn't burn the kangaroo steak.
Who are your favorite fantasy or sci-fi writers? And did they influence your own writing? Exiled Autumn's Peril reminds me a little of Iain M. Banks's Player of Games, though Caleath appears to be thrown into a life and death game of much larger scale. What I've read about your book so far sounds very intriguing.
You're welcome Edith. I think I am safe. He seems more interested in the dancing girls, so no harm done. Have you ever tried spinning fire? I like to watch, and the sound whirring fire makes along with the effect is mezmerising. Being that close to the flames puts me off. Besides my not having the co-ordination is a real disadvantage.
I think the kangaroo steak is safe, as long as it's Fire Mummy spinning and not me!! LOL.
So far I've only spun the tip of my cigarette. Dangerous enough for me. As a writer I prefer to stay at my desk and put others in danger. ;-)
Edith, good questions. I have so many favourite authors from years of reading. Tolkien of course, but Barbara Hambly, Janny Wurtz, are great. They have a mastery of language I envy. Asimov, Norton, Stephen Donaldson, Peter Hamilton, the list goes on. I find though that once I started writing I tended to avoid reading Fantasy and Science fiction and read other genres lest I find myself tempted to borrow ideas.
My influences go as far back as reading Ivanhoe, Winning His Spurs and old classics before I reached high school.
For Caleath's story though I found what was happening around me shaped the story. Virtual reality games, Big Brother, Survivor, the way society is becoming accustomed to reality shows and their popularity fascinated me and I couldn't resist using them in my novel.
And you do it so well Edith! I think leaving the extreme sports to others, is a healthly choice. Placing a character in extreme situations though, well, that's allowed!!
Hi! *saunters in*
Sorry we're late.. Congratulations on the book-launch!!!
Time to celebrate. Next round of ale is on us. xx
S $ L
Thanks for the ale, Lisa. :-)
Rosalie, I know what you mean with the fear of borrowing ideas. Even worse when you read a book and find something very similar to what you've written already.
Do you play virtual reality games? I'd think you wouldn't easily find the time since they are so addictive. I like watching others play occasionally but am afraid of wasting precious time once I get sucked in myself.
Hi there Lisa and Steve, you are most welcome. I will introduce you.. Everyone.. raise your glasses, please fill them first. Ale, ouzo, cider (for me) champagne...
These wonderful people refused to allow me to give up on the dream of being published. After one failed attempt.. the publisher went out of business... they financed a second more successful venture in self publishing. I know without their belief and support the Chronicles would never have been written. *Raises glass* To Steve and Lisa!! Thank you!!
I have played one 5 minute turn at a virtual reality game. Once. It was amazing. A visiting outfit showcasing the newest technology. Came complete with headset, gloves and on a huge purpose built platform. Total immersion!! Addictive.. but not available except on this particular occassion.
That was years ago. It made a huge impression.
I died dismally!!! hehe. I was a total failure but what fun!!!
Cheers Steve and Lisa! Everyone need friends like you!
*cough* Oh, er.. You're very welcome.. er.
We are two of your biggest fans! It would be a tragedy not to share Caleath with the rest of the world!
Cheers Edith! Wassail!
And on the virtual reality topic: Does live fantasy role-play like Dungeons and Dragons count? I was a 'gamer' for a while. I think that the reason I found it so addictive was purely the narrative skill of the Games Master (Michael).
Edith, that's so harsh isn't it, when you see or read something that you thought was your original and unique idea and suddenly it's out there!!
Then you hope you have somehow, somewhere, had your idea 'published' or before a critique group or copywritten an earlier date!
I think that would count Lisa. Perhaps even more REAL than the virtual reality I experienced. It sounds like so much fun.
The skill of the dungeon master would be important. Like the skill of the storyteller.
If they can transport you into the fantasy, then only your imagination limits your experience.
Hi you lot,
I've just been over by the pool trying to prevent Rosalie's mage from hexing Caleath into the water and we all know how much Caleath abhors water after the shipwreck. Rosalie,I had to threaten that old wizard. Told him I'd get my shape-shifting bat to wee on his head. The idea of acid in his eyes quieted him for a while, but someone has to keep an eye on him and make sure he stays away from the Tarack cage.He has a key. A fire spinner might do it. So, how've been Edith? Still the ultimate jet-setter? I still have that rose from your snow-covered balcony. Shh don't tell anyone what I named it. That's copyright heheh hic. cough. Coconut from a lamington went down the wrong way, sorry. So glad you could make it, here.
Wendy, I knew it was a mistake leaving them together. Still, looks like the bat wee threat might be working for a moment. Hey Steve, since Fire Mummy isn't around right now, would you juggle fire for us? I know you can! :)
Hello Lisa and Steve, shake hands, I'm Wendy from south of Sydney. I raise my glass to you two for that wonderful gesture Rosalie mentioned. Thank goodness you kept her motivated and gave her the confidence to keep writing this impressive Sci Fi series. Cheers. Is that a box of ale over on the deck. Oh no! Gwilt's wolf has knocked some over. If he drinks it, how will that affect him. I dread to think. What a beautiful animal.
Hiya Wendy, are you sure this cunning shape-shifting bat will follow your orders? Don't want her to wee all over the place. ;-)
I'm a lot more settled these days, since I got my fella close. ;-) Of course, I need to keep traveling to feed Calamity's Corner. :-)
I've started to relax about similar ideas in other people's writing. I think it happens all the time. There are very few absolutely genuine ideas out there.
When I think of all the books I've read and movies I've seen, if I inadvertently 'copied' something.
Yes I need you to keep travelling. That is true, Edith!!hehehe. And for you to get more settings and material for your thrillers.
The sibyl is fine while she's the bat, I think. It's when she's the Snow White clone she's out of my control. Would love to see her and one of Rosalie's Rangers battle it out.
Yes, Lisa, real-life role-playing counts. :-) Has anyone seen the IT Crowd episode where Moss as the game master even draws in businessmen expecting to be taken to the next strip club after negotiations? Hilarious.
Okay, time for a lunch break. Rigatoni with Gorgonzola sauce anyone?
Excellent idea, Wendy. Why don't you cowrite that scene with Rosalie. Should be fun marketing. Maybe even live on twitter. :-) Go, go, go!
How can you NOT use ideas you have seen, or heard, or read at some time? Really, that's where we get our life experiences.
Hard to come up with something totally unique. The combinations are probably different though. I guess that's where the interest in a new story lies. Where things happen in a new and innovative way.
Don't they say there are really only seven different plots, and their derivatives? Or is it as many as 36? Still doesn't leave much scope for being unique.
Sounds yummy, will go well with the remaining ale!! Thanks Edith. Hold on I will find a few clean plates.
Are there any left that the wolf hasn't licked?
Sybil v Ranger? What are the chances of her shape shifting half way through the confrontation?
Did someone say fire? I will light up and have a spin. Turn up the music and turn down the lights! *woosh* *woosh*
That is hard work. I need a drink and possibly some cheese cake, you have removed the calories right?
Sweet... thanks Fire Mummy!! That should distract the mage for a while.
Watch out for the bat!! It seems to be attracted to the flames.
Does that dragon over there breathe fire? I don't like to be shown up. ;)
Guarenteed. No calories, no hangover.
There's Rigatoni with Gorgonzola sauce just arrived too.
I think she's gorged herself on pavlova and couldn't raise a puff of smoke, let alone flame. So, no chance of being shown up.
What will you have to drink?
Sounds yum! I can eat up and not worry about the gym tomorrow :)
A glass of champagne would be lovely. Since we are celebrating!
Champagne it is!The strawberries are still chilled. Seems like a few hours ago we began with champagne for breakfast.
I wonder where our Muse sisters are? And the other releasees? I wish they could see FireMummy's spectacular performance for themselves. It loses something in the telling. One really needs to be here. :) Huge applause FireMummy. Thank you. I've been looking forward to your dance.
Pasta bar is open. Enjoy. I could probably use another ouzo afterward. ;-)
Perhaps the other new releases have been too busy sipping non cyber champagne Wendy? They don't know what they have missed.
I'll fill your glass, Edith. And my plate. Thanks. Some good quality pasta is what I need right now!! Wendy, that bat is under control right? She was flitting around above the pasta bar!
I wouldn't bet on it. Do you want to get the key off the mage and lock her in the cage with your giant Tarack ant?
And if you see Snow White around, definitely call that Ranger guy.
Pasta and some of Edith's German beer would go down well right now.
Hi There Wendylady,
It's nice to meet you. I saw the wolf running off licking his chops and looking sneaky. Maybe he got to taste some ale after all.
Steve is up for some juggling. He's just got to remember not to catch the hot ends.
Steve, awesome. Just wait till I get the bat under control! Can you imagine the mess if she gets her wings singed while you are juggling!!
Wendy, do you think it's fair on the Tarack, to be cooped up with the bat? What else can we do? Where is Stefan when we need him?
lol Lisa, nice one lol.
Stefan's had a rough trot hahaha. He's probably hiding in a wormhole.
Help!
We went over to a nice little grove of trees so Steve could juggle and I went to fetch a bucket of water. As I walked back into the circle of trees a white owl was startled and took flight and Steve was just laying on the ground and I can't wake him!
Great, I knew that would happen. Damn where is Caleath now? Disappeared again? What about the mage?
Wendy, do you think the sybil would be of any use?
Don't panic Lisa.. I will do that!!!
I think it is time to enlist the dragon.
Has anyone seen her. She finished the pavlova, maybe we can follow sticky footprints or meringue crumbs?
She huge for goodness sake, she shouldn't be hard to spot.
Ok, I will wait here with Steve.
It sure is spooky in this part of the forest.
Okay, just hauled a crate of Franconian micro brew in. Just don't pour it over the flames!
He he. I thought I saw singe marks near the pavlova.
A fat brown squirrel just peered through my window. I think it's trying to lure me into those woods, looking all cute and harmless. Or maybe it wanted a sip of German beer?
I should follow the smell of burnt sugar. Thanks Lisa...
Keep an eye on Steve. I think I see the dragon's hulk behind the trees.
Edith, a little drink, for courage? Thanks...
Lisa, I found the dragon. From what I can work out, she suggests we mix a thimble full of salty margaritas without the rocks, with Faery Special Peach Cobbler, six drops of sake, a spit of Franconian micro brew and a splash of bat urine. Mix and add champagne till the strange blue light fades.
I can get all of that but the bat wee... Wendy? Want to let the sybil out of the cage?
Lol. Does the strange blue light appear before or after you drink it??
Don't do it, Rosalie! Can't trust a dragon--or a Sybil for that matter.
Adder's spit. Lisa, I forgot to ask.
Wendy, what else are we supposed to do?
That leaves us only one alternative, doesn't it?
We can resort to using off world technology? If you are game?
And if you can find Caleath. He was here wasn't he?
I think I saw Caleath smooching with Snow White...
Great, that's all we need. Thanks Edith. Balls of a hairy goat! I'm not sure I want to disturb those two.
Give me another slug of German beer, Edith and I will try my luck. If I am not back in five... Well, carry on without me!
Oh, that does it! I'm going to give her a peice of my mind. I'll get Gwilt's wolf to watch over Steve while I go and sort this out.. I may be gone for some time.
Night* and congratulations again!
Here, Rosalie, you'll get a liter stein for this mission. Good luck. Maybe Stefan can help. He's got some experience with that vicious sybil.
Lisa, off you go. I will keep an eye on the wolf and send Steve home when he's fully recovered.I just hope it's in time for work tomorrow.
*aside to Edith* Lisa will handle the sybil. She's much braver than me. I just write about courage, I don't have any!
I would enlist Stefan, Edith, but Wendy thinks he's off hiding in a wormhole...not the garden variety, the time travelling sort.
The lazy badger is still hiding in the worm hole? Unbelievable. Tsk.
Best of luck to Lisa!
hi Wendy. Thanks for inviting me here.
Congrats Rosalie on your release and enjoyed reading your post here, kiddo.
And btw, Wendy, beside my book being released to today it's also my birthday.
Happy birthday Jerry and congratulations on the release of your book!!!
Hip hip hooray!! *raises a glass* What's your poison? We have quite a range of drinks on offer. Help yourself...there's plenty of food and drink.
Just watch out for the white owl.
Congratulations Jerry on your Muse release today and Happy birthday! What a wonderful birthday present from Muse. Oh no. That means lit candles on the cake and I've run out of matches. Dragon or FireMummy can you help with the fire, please?
Here's a glass of red or would you prefer ale or German beer. The shrimps on the BBQ.
Candles? Cake... of course...
I will use Steve's lighter. He's not needing it right now.
*lights candles* Happy Birthday Jerry!!!
That's Stefan (Steve) asleep on the lawn. Let Lisa attend to him. My suggestion is to let out the giant ant. She can clean everything up. I have to go into hiding for a few hours now, but please help yourself to the food and drink and mingle. :)
Happy birthday, Jerry. I guess you've got your best present already. Wish you success with your book!
I am going to try to follow the white owl. See if I can't find out how to break the spell. I shall return with a remedy as soon as possible.
*Probably in about eight hours time.*
Till then, feel free to party on. There is plenty to go around. Watch out for the ant. Just let it do its thing. It shouldn't be a bother.
I never figured Steve and Stefan were the same. Duh. Now a few things make a lot more sense. ;-) Rest well, Wendy, and thanks for having us.
*shakes head* She's good hey!! I didn't pick it either! Magic...
Hope the ant doesn't like beer. Good luck finding the white owl, Rosalie. Wish you success with Cal & co!
I have the extreme pleasure with working with Rosalie on this series...thanks Lea...and I really want to see what's coming up next.
Love...Balls of a Hairy Goat! that hooked me straight on.
Hi everyone. Is there any champagne left? I'd love a taste. Congrats, Rosalie! Enjoyed the interview and wish you much success with your fabulous series. Great party, Wendy!
Rosalie, lovely and descriptive excerpt! All are on my to be read list:) Congratulations again on the release, and a toast to you as well with my own glass of cyber champagne and moonstruck chocolate!
Cheers, Sara
Hi Rosalie and Wendy. Still rubbing my eyes after going through final edits on a romantic suspense coming out next month with another publisher.
Sounds like you guys have a great party going on, and who can resist a party? LOL
Now, where's that Irish coffee? I could use a good shot of Bailey's in my java.
Good luck on a wonderful book launch, Rosaile. I'll look forward to reading your series.
Cheers,
Pat Dale
Just dropping in from Scotland for a moment to wish you all the very best with your launch and book, Rosalie! It's evening here and dusk is drawing in already.
What fun! Frying up a batch of hairy goat balls now. They're not so bad with somr garlic and a little rosemary.
Finished work for this week and what a wonderful beginning of the weekend with a party.
Thank you Rosalie and Wendy. It seems a lot of people enjoy the party.
Congratulations Rosalie. And as I tolod you before:
I cross my fingers that Exiled: Autumn's Peril will be a raving success.
And now I raise my glass to you two say cheers over the pond from Germany.
By the way the the puzzle has been a lot of fun and it did not take too long to solve.
Enjoy the party!
*pop* Would anyone like some more champagne? I can play hostess until Rosalie finds the owl. I will light up my fire poi and have another spin to entertain everyone who just arrived. Great party! *turns up the music*
*woosh* *woosh*
Goat balls. Hmm. Taste like chicken. Anymore champagne?
Hey everyone! Finally made it! I got lost, as anyone could guess. Musta been that left toin at Albakoiky. Did i hear the word BBQ being bantered about asd i sauntered up the hill? Grats on your new release, Rosalie!
*gasps* I followed the owl... took a million watt torch, cause, as Lisa said, it's spooky out there.
Well, as you know you can't use it for long, the battery dies quick smart, so it was only when I caught a glimpse of something in the owls talons that I shone the light at her.
Startled the owl and she dropped the object.
Took me a while to find it, even with the light from the dimming torch. It was half a golden orb.
Thinking it might have something to do with Stefan being Steve etc, I ran all the way back.
Placed the half orb in Steve/Stefan's hand and he woke pretty much straight away.
Phew...
Said he felt as though he was teetering on the edge of the wormhole.
Seems as though there is more to the properties of the orb, than we first thought Wendy.
Anyhow.. alls well that ends well.
Although, how is the sybil recovering after Lisa had a few words with her?
Welcome to the party, Sara, Pat, Edi, Rosemary, Heather and of course Chris!!!
I think the goat balls could use more garlic Heather.
*pop* Here, refill your glasses. There is plenty more champagne.
Great twirling Fire Mummy.
Moonstruck Chocolate... goodness, what a treat! Thanks Sara.
Now it's dawn here too Rosemary. The birds haven't begun their song yet.
Edi, welcome from Germany. There is German beer somewhere. There was some left when I left anyhow. Hope your weekend is awesome.
Pat, Irish coffee, no problem. Finding a cup might be. Watch out for bat droppings. Nothing romantic about finding them in your coffee. Irish or otherwise.
Actually, coffee sounds great. Might have to find a cup for myself.
Hey, did someone lock the Tarack back in the cage. The place looks amazingly tidy.
Hi Cyrus...
Directions.. I knew I forgot something. :)
The bbq is still hot. The coffee has just brewed. Or would you care for something stronger?
Coffee is fine, as long as it's Sumatran and you have plenty of cinnamon and sugar. And pastires. I demand pastries for my trouble.
Pastires? We have many varieties of pastries... will they do? Sumatran coffee? Of course we have some... not on the BBQ... cinnamon and sugar. Hold on I will chase up the mage! I think he's asleep somewhere. Cinnamon... now why didn't I order in a store of that?
Thanks for the beer Rosalie.
I will have an awesome weekend because I can continue to read Exiled: Autumn's Peril :-)
As far as I can say you did a great job.
Just found some bottles of German beer. I opened the first one and say cheeeeeeeeeeeeeers!!
Cheers Edi!!
*finds the German beer, fills empty coffee cup*
Thanks for travelling all the way from Germany.
Another benefit of cyber parties, no jet lag!!
Have you found something to eat? I don't recommend the goat balls, even with the extra garlic.
The cheesecake is better. I think Cyrus left some of the pastries.
Or I can quickly cook up some kangaroo steaks. Yummo.
mmph! Sorry, no good idea to speak with a mouth full of cheesecake which is delicious.
I love cheesecake. We (my wife and I) own a book full of cheesecake recipes.
Woohoo--you throw a marvellous launch party, Wendy. Really looking forward to reading the book and isn't that a class cover!
Congratulations Rosalie on the launch and wishing the series every success.
Welcome everybody!! Thank goodness there is no time in cyberpace.
Hey Chris! As an editor, you must be as proud as punch being a major part of Rosalie's series. Speaking of punch, I just made a new batch, try some!
Edi, With that book of cheesecake recipes, you should get on well with our publisher!!! She is another cheesecake enthusiast.
I must stick to the calorie free cyber cheesecakes, or we must consider the need to reconstruct doorways.
Hi Annie, welcome. What will you have to drink? Have you met Edi, I am sure he'll share some cheesecake. Come through, there should be somewhere to sit and relax.
The noise? It's the dragon snoring. You can try whistling. There's no way can we get her to roll over.
The cover.. hmm.. yeah. :)
Pat Dale!! Yoo Whoo! CONGRATULATIONS on your book being released today too. Did you travel here by means of Zach's Amazing Dream Machine.hehehe. You must be so excited Champers to celebrate! "Cheers" to Rosalie, Jerry and you!! I'm still looking around the crowd for Kim. Fill up your plate Pat.
Eveyone, come chat to Pat.
Pat, refill your Irish coffee? Edi, did you find the strawberry cheesecake?
Annie, there is some wonderful English cider... or some strawberry and lime cider I can strongly recommend.
Morning Wendy...punch? I have just choppped some fresh strawberries. Hmm. Hard not to realise it's the season for strawberries here. Or is it just me?
I think Jerry's checking for vamps in the spooky forest. Haven't seen him for a while. I hope he is celebrating birthday AND book launch in style.
'scuse me. Let me bustle into this group of fellow Musers. How lovely to see you all. What are talking about? What have I missed? Books? I might have know :)
Hey, Sue, I peaked into your scary library oooh ahhh, maybe your Spirit Stealer can tame Rosalie's mage.
Rosemary can you spare your Summer Eagles to help keep my bat in check? Have you tried the emu steaks? Not my choice I'll stick with the marinated kanga sausages.
Heather, hugs, I see you brought the whole family. They are the goodies in the Family Business, aren't they? There's enough mayhem around here at the moment.
Lovely you found your way here Cyrus (shh I forgot to leave the link) but with your paranormal eye I knew you'd get here somehow.You had no problem with Becoming Nadia. hahaha Oh look there is a down pour of cinnamon. Thanks a lot you shouldn't have mentioned cinnamon. My sibyl has hexed us. She wears cinnamon to cover the smell of bat faeces in her hair. Jump in the pool everyone and wash it off.
Welcome Edi. Love the idea of a book full of cheesecake recipes. Do you ever use any lol or are you like me and just admire the pictures. More German beer? Have one of the pastries.
Annie! My dear editor. So you are back from Scotland. Hope you had a lovely time. Would you like the 1st piece of Pavlova? I made it myself ... well not exactly ... I got it off my innkeeper, Gasparin, when he was entertaining the evil knight. hehehe. Oh dear, I've had too much partying and too little sleep. Am off to take Spitzli to dog obedience training. See you when I get back.
I am off to resupply the fridge and bbq. Any requests? No more cinnamon... that's off the list.
We need more garlic though. Can't get enough to cover the smell of those goat balls. Whose idea was it to bbq them?
More cider... SOME strawberry and lime cider that isn't cyber cider. I reckon.
What else...
Oh yeah.. might be time to look at getting a KINDLE. Now they are here in OZ and on the shelves in our local store!
Spring is such a glorious season. It helps lift the spirits.
Now I have a Kindle in my hot little hands. Need to read the instructions... Wheee.. It looks small. Hope my eyes work well enough to make it useful.
Handed out cards and qr codes to people. Heard that quite a few Kindles have been sold, HERE in down town Coffs. So.. there is hope yet for Oz to join the ebook revolution!!
Sorry I'm late for the party. Just wanted to say Rosalie's series sounds interesting and it just ended up on my to buy pile.
Good luck with your launch.
Hi Lisa,
It's never too late to join our party. A big welcome to another MIU author. So good of you to come.
You know plenty of people here. I'm still pushing the emu steaks or would you prefer a little crocodile. Me, I'm sticking with green salad and Carole's tawny taters, for now. Let me fill your glass. Here's some Toi Toi. See that group. There's a lot of book chat going on over there. You can move around freely but please keep away from that cage. :)
Hi Lisa, Make yourself comfortable. Would you like some more Toi Toi? Great to have a fellow fantasy author from Muse hanging out with us. We could have used your skills last night when the while owl appeared.
Let me know if she returns. I will be prepared this time.
Now, you know everyone? Pat's celebrating too. Jerry's older today. It's his birthday.. double reason to celebrate because his first book is out today too.
BTW, love your website and the gallery of your characters. Can't wait till Betrayal's Price is released. Sounds like a great read!
Happy Launch weekend! (I made it weekend because I missed the actual day.) The series sounds great! You have a wonderful imagination. Best of luck with your series!
hi Jenna,
Glad you made it... It's never to late. Plenty of food, even cheesecake or lamington left. Grab a kanga snag and a drink and let me introduce to people.
You probably know most of them...
To everyone who entered the competition.
Here is the list of prizes:
Opal = e-Book (please let us know your preferred genre and file format)
Gold = $15 PayPal Voucher
Silver = $10 PayPal Voucher
Bronze = $5 PayPal Voucher
Sapphire = Chronicles of Caleath Tote Bag
Amethyst = Chronicles of Caleath Notebook (not the computer kind ;))
Ruby = Chronicles of Caleath Mouse Pad
Diamond = Exiled: Autumn's Peril T-Shirt
Jade = Signed picture of the Chronicles of Caleath covers
Topaz = Set of Chronicles of Caleath magnets
Please email CaleathsQuest@gmail.com with your code word to claim your prize. (Include your snail mail address if your prize requires postage. If you won an ebook please specify which genre you would prefer and the file format pdf/epub/kindle)
Congrats on your launch. I enjoyed what I saw of the party, but there was this thing in the garden that kept growling, and then the ground shook...and the bats!... Maybe next time I'll come in.
Mary,
Psi talents didn't work getting through the creatures? Goodness I am sorry!!
I am glad you didn't bring your characters with you... They have some awesome abilities. Anyone who has read Resonances will know what I am talking about!!! The crew of the Nemisis would have handled the white owl without twitching, but would we have been safe?
Will look forward to seeing you (without the Dark Ops team) at the next launch perhaps.
lol. Mary!! So the creatures kept you out? You who had the courage to write the Fireborn Chronicles? Well now that your are here you can't get away too easily. Don't worry, just wait by the gate and I'll get you a tray of goodies. I'll bring one for me too and we can sit under a weeping willow down by the billabong and I'll sing about a swaggey that is quite well know here. That's even more scary than the fantasy creatures at the party. The song not my singing!! So glad you dropped by Mary.
Hey, Jenna, are you coming too. A dip might cool you down after your Burning Seal experience. Oh, you are tied up in the mage's hex. Oh well never mind ...
Congratulations to EdithParzefall. You have won a copy of Exiled: Autumn's Peril.
Thank you everyone for coming along. It's been a lot of fun. Wendy, you throw the BEST parties!!! Thank you!!!
Anyone who entered the competition and hasn't emailed the Caleath's competition manager... it's time to do so.
Now... off to clean up after the party.
No need for you to clean up, Rosalie. Oh no! dear me no! It's your party. Oh look! It's snowing! Even rubbish looks good when it's covered in snow! :)
Thanks so much for the book, Rosalie. Can't wait to read it. I'm really excited. And thank you Wendy for hosting such a great party. Had a fantastic time. :-)
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