Revising And Revamping!

It's been a while since I've updated you on my series.  After a few satisfactory sales, some give aways and wonderful feedback, I feel Immortlis Amor is getting noticed. However, presently re-reading my novels with a few of my beta readers, I was surprised to see a few typos and mistakes that missed many pairs of eyes. I don't know how this happens when one is so meticulous (being the self-confessed perfectionist I am) however I'm displeased with these mistakes (though there be few, a few too many for my liking.) For my third novel I will have a professional beta reader and more help. Presently, on my own accord, I have decided to unpublish my books temporarily to revise and improve their quality. I want my readers to have the very best version of my work. And I have to be happy with my series, first and foremost. It is a humbling experience writing a novel for the first time, learning all on my own and trying to improve as I go. But I am passionate about my story -- this is my life's work, so these books will be polished until they shine. Only the best for my fans! My gratitude to my readers who have shown me much love and support on this journey, especially those presently helping me achieve my goals with your wonderful advice (though this thorough revising is my own decision.)  I'm hard at work again and will soon announce the re-publication of the revised versions...and the publication of book three!  ~ Love Dominique

Interview With Author Brae Wyckoff ~ The Orb of Truth

Please enjoy my interview with Brae Wyckoff, author of new novel "The Orb of Truth"  (which sounds like a fun and fascinating read!)  Step inside the mind of Mr. Wyckoff and his wonderful, fantastical world...

“It’s a cross between Lord of the Rings and the

 Wizard of OZ where you will be swept away

  into a magical land of Dwarves, Elves,

and Halflings.”

—Brae Wyckoff

 

1. Welcome, Brae. Please tell us a little about yourself, your background, where you are from and at what point in your life did you begin writing (what influences inspired you?) 

Thanks for having me. Hello everyone, I’m a crazy Dungeons and Dragons fan from the 80’s and my love for the fantasy world has driven me, no compelled me to write The Orb of Truth and the sequels forthcoming.

I have been married for 20 years and live in beautiful San Diego, CA. I have three wonderful children and a grandson…yes, I’m a Grandpa.

I started writing short horror stories in 10^th grade and my English teacher gave me great encouragement to continue on this path. It has been quite a writing journey with The Orb and 2 years ago I went full-time writing and have not looked back.

2. What is the title of your book and what genre/s does it fall under? Are there similar books that inspired this novel and genre?

The Orb of Truth is an epic fantasy and my inspirations for writing this are a culmination of JRR Tolkien, CS Lewis, RA Salvatore, and The Bible.

3. Who are you writing for - the audience you seek to attract? Why would they enjoy your book?

Well of course my audience would be the adventure thirsty fantasy folk, but it seems that my book has captured the hearts of many outside this genre who are giving it try based off of others feedback. I have tons of Amazon reviews stating this and the emails I get daily are full of praise which warms my heart.

That means I am doing my job and bringing a great story to life.

4. What about your book stands out from all others in the same genre?

The story unfolds quickly and I don’t sit around describing every detail of the world of Ruauck-El, but instead have the reader experience it through the eyes of the heroes and their actions.

My story brings inspiration and hope and is a classic good vs evil tale. It has been enjoyed by 12 year olds and 90 year olds and everyone else in between.

It is just one of those stories that after you read it and start thinking through it that it will just linger in your mind and you will start bobbing your head in appreciation of the adventure. You will fall in love with one or more of the characters and you will want to come back to Ruauck-El again and again.

There is nothing like a good story!

5. Please tell us what your book is about. Give us a brief synopsis.

In the hundreds of years since the Holy City disappeared, darkness has fallen over the land. Human kingdoms have seized control of the realm, scattering the other races into hiding.

Bridazak, a skilled thief, and his friends, a Dwarf and a fellow Ordakian, have dared to remain within the human communities and live relatively quiet lives, until they discover a mysterious, magical artifact. The three friends are thrust into an adventure that will challenge their faith, their purpose, and their destiny as they chase a forgotten and lost prophecy across the realm of Ruauck-El, where they hope to discover the origins of the strange item and their place in its history.

An ancient, unknown enemy threatens the completion of their journey at every turn. Bridazak is about to face the biggest adventure of his life, one that may change the known realm, and answer the questions he has carried all his life. Will they unlock the truth?

6. Please share five significant sentences from your book that will give us a feel for your story and best represents it's core message.

There is one occurring theme throughout the book and it revolves around this one statement, “It is time.” The ordakian(Halfling) Bridazak

“I tend to think of risk as faith.” The elf Xandahar

“I’d like you to meet my axe.” The dwarf Dulgin

“I will walk all my days if I must, in order to complete the calling that I have received.” The human fighter Abawken

“There is a saying where I come from, ‘A curse is meant to be broken’.” Abawken

7. Who is your favorite character in your book? Why is that character so appealing to you?

I am fond of the main hero named Bridazak. Then there is the lovable dwarf, Dulgin. And I can’t forget about Lester and Ross. They are animated thieves tools that talk telepathically to their owner…they are great comedic relief in the book.

All my characters have a piece of me in them but Bridazak I identify with the most as he feels like an outcast and questions life. When I wrote The Orb, there were two questions, “Do I matter? What is my purpose in life?” This is my motivation behind Bridazak.

8. Is there a character in the book who represents yourself in anyway? Do they have many of your qualities or tell your story (reflecting your life experieces) in some way?

Like I said before, all of my characters have a piece of me in them, some more blatant than others. My kids told me after they read it that I was Dulgin the dwarf in a lot of ways. He has a grumpy attitude but he is so loyal to his friends and family. There is a scene that revolves around eggs and Dulgin’s comment is totally me. You will have to read it to find out what he says.

9. If Hollywood approached you, would you want a movie deal? Would you allow them to take create license with your book, changing many of the scenes into something quite different? Do you feel so strongly your book should be a movie, you would consider producing and directing this movie?

I want to keep the integrity of the book and would be leery of Hollywood deals in making it something it is not supposed to be, but I am open.

I would be very inclined to be on the set and help the director and give him insight on the story.

10. Who would you envision playing the roles of your characters in the movie? Are there prominent actors that could play your characters with similar attributes, you feel could do them justice? Are there movies of a similar genre this book would be compared to?

I liked the entire cast of the BBC show, Robin Hood, and feel several of them could play the roles of my characters…they definitely have the image I had in mind when writing my characters.

The Sheriff of Nottingham actor plays Thurin in The Hobbit movie and he would be an excellent evil king villain in my book…King Manasseh.

11. What inspired you most to write this book? Who are your significant muses?

It is a message of HOPE. In this classic good vs evil tale, I take the heroes of the story on a grand adventure that they never planned on going and during their travels they face sacrifices, obstacles and many choices.

Our lives in this world are no different. Some make the choice to take the adventure to wherever it leads them while others stay at home and complain about their woes in life.

JRR Tolkien, CS Lewis, and RA Salvatore are my significant muses. I will also mention Stephen King in this list and encourage everyone to read his book entitled ‘On Writing’…excellent read.

12. Where can interested readers find your book available for purchase? Is it in ebook format or paperback, or both? Purchase Links:

Paperback Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/The-Orb-Truth-Volume-1/dp/1479313262/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1353350627&sr=8-1&keywords=brae+wyckoff

E-Book Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Truth-Horn-King-Series-ebook/dp/B00AGIQYWO/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1354403443&sr=1-1&keywords=orb+truth

E-Book Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Truth-Horn-King-Series-ebook/dp/B00AGIQYWO/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1354589810&sr=8-3

13. Where can potential fans find information on you and your books on the internet?

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/theorboftruth

Fan Club Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/210437715767673/

Blog: http://orboftruth.blogspot.com/

Official Website: http://www.braewyckoff.com/

Twitter: http://twitter.com/BraeWyckoff

Good Reads: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16155612-the-orb-of-truth

Any other links that are important:

Book Video: http://youtu.be/0JmqCwNS410

14. Any other books you've published or any you're presently writing, you wish to share about?

The sequel to The Orb of Truth will be out in 2013 and is entitled, The Dragon God. The book cover was just revealed last week and is getting great reviews.

I am currently writing the 3^rd of the series called The Vampire King and that is due to be released in 2014.

A book a year…there will be more.

15. Is there anything else you would like to share that we haven't covered?

The Orb of Truth has been voted on several lists and

I’m humbled by them all:

Voted #1 Best Fantasy Book Under the Radar!

Voted #1 Best Christian Sci-Fi/Fantasy Book!

Voted #1 Best Indie Fantasy Book!

Voted #1 Best World Building!

Voted #1 Epic Fantasy Worth Your Time!

Voted #1 Awesome Action!

Voted #1 Best Supporting Characters!

This concludes our interview.

I wish you much success Brae!

Interview With David Rieckmann

March 30th, 2013

Wonderful questions, thus insightful.

Click here to read my interview for Indie Authors and Books

Interview with Carol Bond

My interview with the lovely Carol Bond from The Unseen Promise Blog

Carol: Dominique Vandorien's interview is a wonderful read. She is candid and fabulously talented. Please join me and we can enjoy what she has to say!

Bio: Dominique Vandorien (aka Nikki Vandorien) is a new Indie author as of December 2012, with a new Paranormal series, Immortalis Amor. She lives in beautiful North Vancouver, British columbia, Canada with her husband and extended family and is also an artist (visual arts, fine art photography and digital arts.) When she isn't busy writing or being creative with her various art projects, she spends her time enjoying nature, surrounded by mountains and the sea.

1/ What is the name of your book?

The Immortalis Amor Series ~ Immortalis Amor, Darkest Secrets (Book 1) and Immortalis Amor, Wicked Desires (Book 2) with a third book in the series being published this summer.

 2/ What genre does your book fall under and the audience you are seeking to attract?

True Life Paranormal, Erotic Romance, Paranormal Romance and Thriller. Adults 18+ who enjoy something deeper on a psychological and spiritual level (there are many layers to this story unfolding throughout the series) those who enjoy Erotica, Paranormal Romance, Vampires, Erotic Thrillers, True Life Paranormal and True Life Memoirs.

3/ What makes your book stand out from all the others of the same genre? The fact this series is my true-life story makes it unique, considering it is paranormal and not a fantasy and actually combining many genres. To read more of the interview please go to The Unseen Promise Blog  

Sites where Blog Interview can be found:

Immortalis Amor Blog:
http://dominiquevandorien.blogspot.ca

Facebook Fan Page for series: http://www.facebook.com/ImmortalisAmorSeries

Personal Facebook Profile:
http://www.facebook.com/DOMINIQUEVANDORIEN

Website: http://immortalisamor.webs.com

Links to purchase my books: *Note, they are NOT available on Amazon.com* only available to purchase on Createspace.com (an Amazon company) and Smashwords.com

Createspace.com (Paperbacks)
Immortalis Amor, Darkest Secrets https://www.createspace.com/4096921

Immortalis Amor, Wicked Desires https://www.createspace.com/4124316

Smashwords (Ebooks)
Immortalis Amor, Darkest Secrets http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/264667

Immortalis Amor, Wicked Desires http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/271932

Valentine's GIVE AWAY!!! To show my appreciation to my readers, as of Jan.13th up until Feb.14th, Valentine's day, everyone who purchases my book Immortalis Amor, Darkest Secrets on my createspace estore https://www.createspace.com/4096921 will be gifted a free ebook of Wicked Desires (book 2 in series) AND entered in a draw to win some fabulous items. (See pics below!)

You may download Darkest Secrets as an ebook if prefered, all formats for devices (all ereaders such as Kindle, Nook, Kobo etc., pdf for pc, ipad, iphone, etc. and more) are available to download cheap from my Smashwords page: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/264667 (You can re-download the book in as many formats as you wish, once you've bought it.)  Contest ends Feb.14th, Valentine's day at 12 noon PST and 3 PM EST when the winner will be drawn and announced here on my blog and on I.A.'s Facebook fan page. http://www.facebook.com/ImmortalisAmorSeries (so be sure to like it and join if you're on Facebook.) All I need is your purchase info.  Message me with your order number on facebook or here in comment section then sign up on Smashwords.com and I'll give you a coupon for 100% off so you can download Wicked Desires for free. :) One person purchasing Darkest Secrets will be winning ALL items listed below. See photo! The Give Away items are as follows, 1 Gothic Jewelery Set: a beautiful beaded choker with silver and onyx earings. One bottle of (purse size) Samsara "Eau de Toilette" spray by Guerlain of Paris (wonderfully exotic yet soft perfume, one of my favorites) Bookmark, 8.5 X 11 high quality, professional print of my artwork (not shown in photo) autographed. An ornate silver pinky ring with a deep red heart-shaped garnet. A few little surprise items as well, for a lucky Valentine! ♥

Both books are available for purchase at Createspace.com as paperbacks. Immortalis Amor, Darkest Secrets https://www.createspace.com/4096921 and Immortalis Amor, Wicked Desires https://www.createspace.com/4124316 if you so desire and your name will be entered for the draw for the items.

~~~Good luck my lovelies!~~~

 

First Review of Immortalis Amor!!!!!!

This wonderful heartfelt review of Immortalis Amor was given to me tonight by the fabulous Kristoph Knight. It moved me to tears, after all the work I've poured into my novels and exciting to receive from a man I have tremendous respect for. {Thank you kind sir}

Review of Immortalis Amor Series:
Every now and then comes a ground breaking novel. The newly published Immortalis Amor series promises two such reads (so far) Darkest Secrets and Wicked Desires.

First off I have to say it’s absolutely an honor to review this series for the brilliant new author, Dominique Vandorien.  I’m a man who enjoys a variety of good reading from autobiographies, erotic novels and paranormal horror/thriller, so the combination of these genres in one story is a unique, exciting blend.  It was a challenge, dealing with two small children and with my third arriving this month but I couldn’t wait to return to these books every second I was free. It was a pleasure reading Dominique’s fine writing, enjoying her descriptive and poetic style. This one breaks the mold. It is peerless, difficult to represent categorically because this daring and unique series is more than erotica, paranormal romance or a thriller (as is portrayed by the author.)  It’s all those combined but more importantly a true story, the author’s autobiography written from her personal memoirs.

Darkest Secrets novel, first in the series and Wicked Desires, the second novel, both promise an exhilarating read, shocking, fascinating, eye opening and thought provoking.  The fact it took fifteen years for this author to compile and write these events from her diaries shows the dedication she has to represent her story in detail and to cultivate the quality of her writing for her readers. 
Synopsis:

In Darkest Secrets, the story begins with the author as an eighteen year old woman in 1984. You are introduced to Dominique and her “paranormality” as she calls it, supernatural powers increasingly effecting her existence. It also introduces the fascinating characters of Immortalis Amor who become an integral part of her life, seducing her into their dark, erotic and mystical world.  A world Dominique quickly becomes entangled with, one of exploitation and danger.  Which brings us to Wicked Desires novel (second book in series) where her story climaxes into a wickedly erotic and frightening culmination of events.

Dominique opens her real life diaries, sharing her experiences with the paranormal and being seduced into a vampiric sex cult (though you will find my description downplays this sinister underground organization.)  Hence, this is a chilling and wickedly erotic disclosure as the author promises in her preview. However despite how dark and disturbing this story may seem, the author’s wonderful sense of humor abounds throughout and above all else, this novel is centrally a romance. A romance indubitably for the open minded and those who enjoy beautiful erotica (sensual as opposed to the hard core pornographic writings prevalent online.) But don’t be fooled, it is one hot read. I rate this one four fire extinguishers.) ;-)

 
In these two novels you’ll discover an exquisite love story, taking you into the domain of the spiritual.  It’s no less than breathtaking and astonishing, a mind bending portrayal of reality, provoking every emotion. The author’s raw honesty is heart warming and intimate, a glimpse inside a beautiful mind and soul.

At essence this a story of a strong woman who is more than a survivor of the darkest forces of evil, both human and supernatural.  I’m proud to give this new series five stars. My only negative comment is there should be more books in the series already written (though I know the author is hard at work, so they’re on their way) I didn’t want this entertaining ride to end. Congratulations Dominique, I wish you much success for all your hard work and its extraordinary result. I’m very much looking forward to reading your following novels in this series. 

Kristoph A. R. Knight

Purchase as paperbacks: Darkest Secrets  ~ Wicked Desires
Purchase as Ebooks: Darkest Secrets
~ Wicked Desires

With Gratitude

  Happy Blogiversary to A Page Away Book Reviews thanks for posting my info and promoting Darkest Secrets on your blog.  As a new author I couldn't appreciate it more.