Maz Blog

January News.

2012-01-28T01:58:00.003-08:00

My novel Taken has been accepted by MuseItUp Publishing and I've just signed a contract with them. Happy days!

This Fantasy/Romance story is set in the magical world of Cymllon.

The Kindle Giveaway Continues

2011-12-15T01:17:00.000-08:00

Our Writers on the Wrong Side of the Road Book Tour and Holiday Hat Treasure Hunt runs from November 28 to December 21, 2011. The grand prize is a Kindle and there are many other daily prizes.

Welcome to Day Fourteen! Click on this link for all the details: http://www.alternative-read.com/winakindle.htm

Find the Holiday Hat #14 logo on my website: www.marionwebb-desisto.com Also, don't forget to 'Like' us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Alternative-Readcom-Anthology/159482487471446?sk=wall

Daily Prize Giveaway - For today's prize I'm offering a print copy of my Fantasy novel Abbadon: Book Two of the Angelic Chronicles. You can enter by leaving a comment below and remember to include your email address. The closing date for entries into this giveaway is Thursday December 22. The winner will be announced on this blog the following day/December 23, 2011. Good Luck!!

If you didn’t enter the Daily Prize Giveaway for Day #7 and want to, it remains open. Just read the blog post below this one for the details. Leave a comment under that posting and you’ll be entered into the draw.

The Kindle Giveaway

2011-12-05T13:53:00.000-08:00

Welcome to our Writers on the Wrong Side of the Road Book Tour and Holiday Hat Treasure Hunt that runs from November 28 to December 21, 2011. The grand prize is a Kindle and there are many other daily prizes.

Welcome to Day Seven! Click on this link for all the details: http://www.alternative-read.com/winakindle.htm

Find the Holiday Hat #7 logo on my website: www.marionwebb-desisto.com

Also, don't forget to 'Like' us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Alternative-Readcom-Anthology/159482487471446?sk=wall

Follow the Treasure Hunt each day. When you've found as many logos as you can, list the urls where you found them, and then, when the tour ends, email your list to Sassy Brit, at Sassy.Brit@gmail.com The closing date for all entries into the Kindle competition is December 25/Christmas Day. The winner will be announced Friday January 6, 2012. Good Luck!!

Daily Prize Giveaway - For today's prize I'm offering a print copy of my Fantasy novel Final Retribution: Book Three of the Angelic Chronicles.You can enter by leaving a comment below and remember to include your email address. The closing date for entries into this giveaway is Thursday December 22. The winner will be announced on this blog the following day/December 23, 2011. Good Luck!!

Writers on the Wrong Side of the Road is an anthology with fascinating tales that include horror, contemporary fiction, action, erotica, a post apocalyptic story and even a space opera. This ‘must have’ collection of speculative fiction was created by authors who have some connection to www.alternative-read.com It’s great reading for those times when you're curled up in front of the fire on a winter evening. My contribution is the erotic Fantasy novella Malpas. Read the book to find out how a modern-day librarian and a fallen angel come together in erotic dreams. Can these two very different individuals, who are drawn together by lust, eventually find true love?

Holiday Hat Hunt

2011-11-20T03:13:00.006-08:00

Please like us on Facebook.

Alternative-Read's Anthology

2011-10-21T02:21:00.000-07:00

Marion Webb-De Sisto, author of Samael's Fall: The Angelic Chronicles and several non-fiction books, e.g. Crystal Skulls, is one of the Writers on the Wrong Side of the Road, a short story anthology put out by Sassy Brit and C. C. Bye of Chase Enterprises Publishing. Marion has written the novella MALPAS, in which her invisible and insatiable dream lover wants things his way. Not likely! Read the book.

Alternative-Read's Anthology

2011-10-20T02:19:00.000-07:00

Kit St. Germain, author of the novel The Thirteenth Fairy (Amazon) and a number of short stories like As He Was (Strange Horizons), also happens to be Tabitha St. Germain, an award-winning stage and radio actress who has become one of the foremost female voice over talents in North America. Tabitha's alter ego, Kit, is one of the Writers on the Wrong Side of the Road, a short story anthology put out by Sassy Brit and C. C. Bye of Chase Enterprises Publishing. Kit has written TAKE TWO, which is post-apocalyptic humour with an edge. Read the book.

Alternative-Read's Anthology

2011-10-19T02:16:00.000-07:00

Tonya Moore, author of Blood Binds, is one of the Writers on the Wrong Side of the Road, a short story anthology put out by Sassy Brit and C. C. Bye of Chase Enterprises Publishing. Tonya has written SLUMFAIRY, in which a jaded mercenary is enlightened by her strange world. Read the book.

Alternative-Read's Anthology

2011-10-18T02:25:00.000-07:00

John B. Rosenman, author of several speculative fiction novels and at least 150 published short stories (and a few poems), is an active member of HWA (Horror Writers Association) and SFWA (Science Fiction Writer's Association) and has been a guest at both Sci-Con and Balticon. For two years (1998-1999), he was Chairman of the Board of HWA. John is also one of the Writers on the Wrong Side of the Road, a short story anthology put out by Sassy Brit and C. C. Bye of Chase Enterprises Publishing. John has written THE SMILE IN HER EYES, a story that asks the question, "Can a young girl and an old man find love in an intolerant society?" Read the book.

Alternative-Read's Anthology

2011-10-17T02:09:00.000-07:00

Karen Cote, author of Erotic Deception, is one of the Writers on the Wrong Side of the Road, a short story anthology put out by Sassy Brit and C. C. Bye of Chase Enterprises Publishing. Karen, who has never tried writing horror, bravely offers us the raw and disturbing SEVEN DEADLY SINS. This is a great read about a unique serial killer who won’t stop until there are seven to forgive his own sins. Read the book.

Alternative-Read's Anthology

2011-10-16T02:21:00.000-07:00

Mike Brecon, author of A Dangerous Remedy, is one of the Writers on the Wrong Side of the Road, a short story anthology put out by Sassy Brit and C. C. Bye of Chase Enterprises Publishing. Mike has written THE MEAL, in which reality TV is at its ugliest and most brazen. Then he goes on to tell us a dark, sad story called FRAME OF REFERENCE, which is about the way we see things and the way we don't. Read the book.

Alternative-Read's Anthology

2011-10-15T02:12:00.000-07:00

Casey Wolf, author of Finding Creatures & Other Stories, and first-time author Päivi Kuosmanen are Writers on the Wrong Side of the Road, a short story anthology put out by Sassy Brit and C. C. Bye of Chase Enterprises Publishing. Casey and Päivi co-authored TRIONA’S BEANS, in which a teenage girl saves a world between first and last dinner call. Casey also wrote two other stories for the anthology: CENOTAPH, in which an angry young man learns what enduring commitment and duty means, and PRONGHORNS, where you'll discover that Sylvia should have paid attention to her memory of the Pronghorns. Read the Book.

Alternative-Read's Anthology

2011-10-14T02:03:00.000-07:00

Megan Johns, author of The Path of Innocence, is one of the Writers on the Wrong Side of the Road, a short story anthology put out by Sassy Brit and C. C. Bye of Chase Enterprises Publishing. Megan has written THE JOURNEY, in which a complex woman—wife and mother, has a most surprising secret. Then, zeroing in on a more specific audience, Megan writes A NEW LEAF, "For real women who understand life is not clear-cut." Read the book.

Alternative-Read's Anthology

2011-10-13T02:08:00.000-07:00

Tim Fleming, author of Murder of an American Nazi, is one of the Writers on the Wrong Side of the Road, a short story anthology put out by Sassy Brit and C. C. Bye of Chase Enterprises Publishing. Tim has written THE BAREFOOT HERO, in which a grieving man stumbles upon a remarkable form of heroism. Read the book.

Alternative-Read's Anthology

2011-10-12T02:40:00.000-07:00

Nathan L. Yocum, author of The Zona, is one of the Writers on the Wrong Side of the Road, a short story anthology put out by Sassy Brit and C. C. Bye of Chase Enterprises Publishing. Nathan has written SIMON SEEKS... “You gotta find someone, go to Simon Craig, but don’t get on his bad side.” Read the book.

Alternative-Read's Anthology

2011-10-11T02:44:00.000-07:00

Elizabeth Coldwell, author of HIS, is one of the Writers on the Wrong Side of the Road, a short story anthology put out by Sassy Brit and C. C. Bye of Chase Enterprises Publishing. Elizabeth has written FOR ART’S SAKE, in which the reader learns just what Danni is prepared to do for art’s sake. Read the book.

Alternative-Read's Anthology

2011-10-10T02:59:00.000-07:00

Angelika Devlyn, author of Black Ice: The Training Ground (The Dark Kingdom Chronicles) Book One, is one of the Writers on the Wrong Side of the Road, a short story anthology put out by Sassy Brit and C. C. Bye of Chase Enterprises Publishing. Angelika has offered us JUDGMENT DAY, in which an injured woman falls into the hands of a psychic psychopath. Read the book.

Alternative-Read's Anthology

2011-10-09T01:42:00.000-07:00

Lucille P Robinson, author of SHORT STORIES THAT KILL TIME, is one of the Writers on the Wrong Side of the Road, a short story anthology produced by Sassy Brit and C. C. Bye of Chase Enterprises Publishing. Lucille has written HOLD UP, in which a rapist learns why crime doesn’t pay. Will he survive this lesson? In a second story, Lucille offers us MAN SLAUGHTER: a woman accused of killing 3 family members may not be guilty. Read the Book.

Alternative-Read's Anthology.

2011-10-08T03:02:00.000-07:00

Introducing Writers on the Wrong Side of the Road: The most dangerous rule-wreckers from Alternative-Read.com. We took away the rules and let them write whatever the hell they liked.

Editor: Sassy Brit created Alternative-Read.com, a writers group found on Yahoo which says ‘anything goes’ when it comes to writing and promoting authors and books. Readers will enjoy the group, because here the authors promote their writings and give excerpts, not to mention the contests in which members of the group can win copies of all the great offerings. Sassy is spearheading the Writers on the Wrong Side of the Road Project.

Editor: Clayton C. Bye is a business consultant and owner of Chase Enterprises. He has written many non-fiction books on business. One of his best books, Bare Knuckle MBA, deals with how to start a business of your own. He also offers training for various businesses, teaching them how to improve their operations and increase their profits. Under the imprint, Chase Enterprises Publishing, Clayton is producing and editing the Writers on the Wrong Side of the Road Project, an anthology filled with short stories written by several authors from Alternative-Read.com.

Alternative-Read Anthology

2011-09-09T05:25:00.001-07:00

Writers on the Wrong Side of the Road - Anything goes! "We took away the rules and let them write whatever the hell they liked."

Eighteen stories by the most dangerous rule-wreckers from Alternative-Read.com. One of them is mine.

Expected Release Date: November 21, 2011. In plenty of time for you to purchase as a fantastic Christmas gift for someone special.

Author Interview

2011-08-08T05:54:00.000-07:00

Today I'm the author being interviewed on Penny Lockwood Ehrenkranz's Blogspot. Do stop by and leave a comment, and then you'll be entered into the draw for a print copy of my latest novel, Final Retribution. A second place winner will also be drawn and will win an eBook copy of this book. Hope to see you there.

A New Anthology

2011-07-23T02:16:00.000-07:00

Earlier this year I was invited to participate in a planned anthology by Alternate-Read.com I wrote and submitted a novella, entitled Malpas, and I've just received a contract and advance for it. The title of the anthology is: Writers on the Wrong Side of the Road. It will be published in October. Check back for more information.

Day Eleven

2011-06-08T02:20:00.001-07:00

This is the last stop of my blog tour. Come and visit me at Scarlet's Slash where you have the opportunity, once again, to read what Samael has to say in his interview.

Day Ten

2011-06-08T02:08:00.000-07:00

The penultimate stop of my blog tour. I'm at Strange Candy. If you come by, you can read an excerpt from each of my three novels.

Day Nine

2011-05-31T02:17:00.001-07:00

It's stop 9 on my blog tour today and I'm the guest at Fall Under My Spell. An interview with Manah, the main female character in my novel Final Retribution, is posted so come along and see what she has to say.

Day Eight

2011-05-28T02:55:00.000-07:00

For some unknown reason my blog tour stop on Thursday didn't happen, but the information about my book - Final Retribution - is up now. Take a look at Julie Achterhoff's Electrical Blog.

Day Seven

2011-05-24T02:30:00.000-07:00

I'm the guest at Heather Kuehl's blog today. It's Malevolent Musings. It would be great to see you there.

Day Six.

2011-05-19T03:23:00.001-07:00

Today I'm the guest at Siren Book Reviews. If you missed reading my article on Psychic Attacks last week, it's posted, again, on this blog. Hope you enjoy it.

Day Five

2011-05-17T07:45:00.001-07:00

Today is Day Five of my blogtour and I'm the guest at Romance and Fantasy. Do come by and read an excerpt from my novel Final Retribution.

Day Four

2011-05-12T07:36:00.000-07:00

Today is the fourth stop on my blog tour. I'm at Kayden McLeod's Blogspot and my article on Psychic Attacks is there for you to read. Hope you'll come by and leave me a comment or ask a question.

Day Three

2011-05-10T02:16:00.000-07:00

Today is the third stop on my blog tour. I'm the guest at Redz World where an interview with Samael, one of the main characters in my latest novel, Final Retribution, is taking place. Come along and see what he has to say. He's definitely self-opinionated and a little bit scary.

Day Two

2011-05-06T01:47:00.001-07:00

Yesterday should have been the second day of my blog tour for my latest novel, but due to a delay it is continuing into today. I'm at Brigit's Journals. Do stop by and say, "Hi!"

Day One

2011-05-03T07:15:00.001-07:00

This is the first day of my blog tour. I'm at Otherworlds Publicity. I'd love to see you there.

Eleven Stop Blog Tour

2011-05-02T07:33:00.001-07:00

From May 3 to June 7 I'm taking a five-week blog tour as a way of promoting my latest novel, Final Retribution. Each week I'll detail the dates and blogs where I'm a guest. This week they are:

Blog Stop One on Tuesday May 3 - Otherworlds Publicity

Blog Stop Two on Thursday May 5 - Brigit's Journals

Megan Johns Invites Blog

2011-04-14T04:01:00.000-07:00

April 13 - 15, 2011. For these three days I'm Megan's guest. Do stop by and make a comment. Then you'll be entered into the draw to win a copy of my latest novel - Final Retribution.

Megan's Blog

Cyber Launch Party

2011-03-23T14:57:00.000-07:00

Come and join us at AuthorIsland's Cyber Launch Party for my new novel - Final Retribution. If you ask me a question or make a comment, you'll be entered in the contest to win one of my books. Hope to see you there.

Here's the link:
http://www.cyberlaunchparty.blogspot.com/

The Earth Hour Event.

2011-03-21T04:26:00.000-07:00

On March 26, 2011, pledge to turn out your lights at 8:30 pm for Earth Hour, a worldwide collective display of commitment to protect the one thing that unites us all--the planet.

read more about this event HERE.

New Release

2011-03-12T08:35:00.000-08:00

My new novel was released this week. More information, including a two-chapter excerpt, HERE.

Also available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

Cover for Final Retribution

2011-02-23T07:43:00.000-08:00

This is the front cover of my latest novel. The book should be out in early March. Hope you like it. :-)

The Year of the Rabbit

2011-02-02T07:07:00.001-08:00

The Chinese New Year of the Rabbit begins on February 3, 2011. If you would like to know what this bunny has in store for you, then hop along to my website and read my article about him HERE.

The Cocktails Fiction & Gossip Magazine

2010-12-19T02:15:00.000-08:00

You can read my article on Psychic Attacks in this new online magazine.

Chinese Astrology

2010-12-02T04:16:00.001-08:00

I've always been interested in this astrological pursuit and find it less complicated than what is considered to be a more acceptable form of astrology. Over time I've also noticed that people do fit the profile of the animal into whose year they were born. At the beginning of each Chinese New Year I post an article on my website about what we can expect from whichever animal's twelve months are about to start. If, like me, you are interested in this topic, take a look at what I wrote about 2010, the Year of the Tiger. The link is:

http://www.marionwebb-desisto.com/site/article/39

Tiger years are usually volatile and can sometimes end in war. The recent posturing of North Korea is typical of the Tiger. He always wants to appear powerful, undaunted and indebted to no one. However, as with all of the Chinese Astrology animals, he does have some saving graces. He is a fearless leader and possesses a sense of humor. Incidentally, I was born in a Tiger year so I definitely hold affection for him. After you’ve read my article, why not tell me which animal’s year is yours?

Fall Contest.

2010-09-03T08:49:00.000-07:00

Abbadon: Book Two of The Angelic Chronicles
It's hell when you're exiled to Abbadon and are separated from your beloved. The continuing adventures of Samael and Seriel, who both adore Malkura, but which angelic brother will finally win her love?

As I'm just coming to the end of writing Book Three of The Angelic Chronicles, I want to celebrate with a contest. Abbadon is Book Two of the trilogy and a print copy of this book will be the prize for the winner. Three second place names will also be drawn for eBook copies of this book. In order to enter go to: http://www.marionwebb-desisto.com/site/article/28

December's eBook Giveaway.

2009-12-02T03:33:00.000-08:00

This month the theme of the contest is the angelic community. I'll be giving a PDF eBook copy of one of my books about celestial escapades to two lucky winners. Abbadon - It's hell when you're exiled to Abbadon and are separated from your beloved. The continuing adventures of Samael and Seriel, who both adore Malkura, but which angelic brother will finally win her love?

You can read more about this contest HERE.

I'll draw the 2 winning names on December 31. Good Luck!

ALL DAY HALLOWEEN CHAT

2009-10-26T15:18:00.001-07:00

Clear your calendar for a fun and spooky AuthorIsland all day chat on Thursday the 29th as we share ghost stories, talk about great books and give away prizes!!! The festivities start at 8 am EST and go until the witching hour or until we all go to bed, whichever comes first! Please stop by, join in the fun and bring your scariest ghost story!

TO JOIN THE CHAT - simply sign up at:
http://groups.yahoo.com/subscribe/authorislandchat

you can set the group to INDIVIDUAL EMAILS to be in on the action from the get go, but be warned - it will get crazy!! - Or you can follow the chat on the group's home page. Hope to see you there!

My Just-A-Little-Bit-Spooky Halloween Competition.

2009-10-07T01:58:00.000-07:00

Do you think having contact with the spirit world is a little bit spooky? Well, if you’re curious about it, my two books - Soul Wisdom, Volume One and Soul Wisdom, Volume Two – give detailed information on how it happened to me. I’m offering a free print copy of both books as a way of celebrating Halloween 2009 so why not enter the contest to see if the spirits choose you to be the winner? You can read about the many other-worldly messages I’ve received over the years, such as how to conduct a séance, giving healing to pets and the dynamics of soulmates and karma. Or how about various predictions for our world, many of which have already come true?

The details of how to enter the contest are given on my website. The drawing will take place at the stroke of midnight on October 31, 2009 and three second place winners will also be drawn to receive an eBook copy of either Volume One or Volume Two, their choice. Good {Ghoul} Luck!

My congratulations go out to Kayla Johnson of California, she was the winner of this contest. They also go to Tara Woods, Brenda and Jen Ring, who were the second-place winners.

Turning to Nature

2009-06-30T02:06:00.001-07:00

My latest non-fiction book has just been released. It's an introductory handbook to an amazing complementary therapy.

Turning to Nature: The Healing Flower Remedies Created by Dr. Edward Bach

The author's exploration of the Bach Original Flower Remedies acquaints the reader with both the life and work of Dr. Edward Bach and his unique flower essences. The doctor's philosophy on dis-ease and its cause are examined, together with an in-depth analysis of all 38 Remedies. Strategies for choosing the correct ones for personal use and a breakdown of their effects are also included for the reader's understanding. This valuable handbook serves as an introduction to an amazing complementary therapy that is completely safe and growing in popularity. In addition, instructions on how to create flower essences and flower/gem elixirs are offered by the author, who is a Bach Foundation Registered Practitioner.

You can read more about this book, including an excerpt, HERE.

Interview at Texty Ladies

2009-06-22T05:54:00.000-07:00

Today I'm the featured author at Texty Ladies. Why not drop by and read some things you might not have known about me. Here's the link: Texty Ladies - Artful Adventures in Writing.

Summer Treasure Hunt

2009-05-21T02:06:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Our “Summer Treasure Hunt: Dig for Clues and Win” Contest!

Some friends and I have put together an exciting contest to kick off your summer! Beginning June 1st, we will be giving away a prize a day. That’s right: 30 days, 30 treasures! There should be something for everyone: romance, mystery, historical, contemporary, and young adult fiction; children’s picture books; a variety of non-fiction; and just to liven things up even more, we’ve included a few exciting non-book prizes: a free 30 page manuscript edit, for you aspiring authors out there; an e-bay gift certificate; and a gift-certificate for a Vinyl Expressions Quote.
How can you win one of these fabulous prizes? Follow the rules below:

SUMMER TREASURE HUNT RULES:

You can send in an entry for each day’s prize, or only for those prizes that strike your fancy. The rules are simple:
(1) Go to the website or blog indicated for each day, find the answer to the question for that day, then email the answer with your name and mailing address to jdipastena@yahoo.com.
(2) Please send a separate entry for each day and type the day you are entering in the subject line. (Such as: June Treasure Hunt, Day 1; June Treasure Hunt, Day 2, etc).
(3) Deadline for each day: Midnight PST
(4) The winner will be contacted and announced on the day following the deadline.
You do not have to wait until the designated day to enter. You can start sending in your entries right now, or begin entering at any point along the way. And check back here each day between June 2nd-July 1st to read the names of the winners.
If you have any questions, feel free to email Joyce DiPastena at jdipastena@yahoo.com.

And now…let the treasure hunt begin!

June 1
SPONSOR: Aubrey Mace
PRIZE: autographed copy of my new YA fiction book, My Fairy Grandmother.
QUESTION: What is the title of my upcoming book to be released Fall 2009?
WEBSITE/BLOG: www.aubreymace.com
OPEN TO INTERNATIONAL ENTRIES
WINNER: Terry Fleming of California.

June 2
SPONSOR: Rachel Rager
PRIZE: By Love or By Sea, romance, autographed copy
QUESTION: What question does the stranger ask Alice? (Hint: Read excerpt of By Love or By Sea on the “Reading Room” page.)
WEBSITE/BLOG: http://www.rachelrager.comUSA ENTRIES ONLY
WINNER: Phyllis Lamken of Idaho.

June 3
SPONSOR: Josi S. Kilpack
PRIZE: An autographed copy of culinary mystery Lemon Tart OR a pre-ordered copy of English Trifle (release date is August 2009)
QUESTION: How many original recipes are included in the culinary mystery, Lemon Tart? (Hint: click on “Lemon Tart” tab on website)
WEBSITE/BLOG: www.josiskilpack.com
USA ENRIES ONLY
WINNER: Debbie Lambson of Utah.

June 4
SPONSOR: Cindy R. Williams
PRIZE: Arizona Glyph Award Finalist: Chase McKay Didn’t Get Up Today Children’s snuggle, giggle picture book. Autographed by the author and the real Chase McKay.
QUESTION: What is the name of the dragon book Cindy is completing?
WEBSITE/BLOG: www.cindyrwilliams.com
OPEN TO INTERNATIONAL ENTRIES
WINNER: Gloria Lyons of Michigan.

June 5
SPONSOR: Kersten Campbell
PRIZE: Autographed Copy of the Motherhood humor book: Confessions of a Completely (In)Sane Mother
QUESTION: What does the dog beg for when he escapes into the neighbor's house in the book Confessions of a Completely Insane Mother? (hint: if they click on the book they'll find the answer)
WEBSITE/BLOG: www.kerstencampbell.com
OPEN TO INTERNATIONAL ENTRIES
WINNER: Wendy Steed of Idaho.

June 6
SPONSOR: Lara Niedemeyer
PRIZE: $20 gift certificate towards merchandise and shipping at my store—8pizza on eBay
QUESTION: What is the lowest priced item and what is the highest priced item listed in 8pizza’s store? (Hint: use the “Sort By” feature).
WEBSITE/BLOG: http://stores.shop.ebay.com/8pizza
USA ENTRIES ONLY
WINNER: Gayle Oreluk of Illinois.

June 7
Sponsor's name: Kathi Oram Peterson
Prize: Autographed copy of The Forgotten Warrior, YA Inspirational Time travel
Question Who is Tarik?
WEBSITE/BLOG: www.kathiorampeterson.comUSA ENTRIES ONLY
WINNER: Heather Justesen of Utah.

June 8
SPONSOR: Donna Hatch
PRIZE: Autographed copy of paperback of the Regency Romance, The Stranger She Married
QUESTION: What is Cole accused of doing?
WEBSITE/BLOG: www.donnahatch.net (Hint: read the excerpt under “Bookshelf” tab for The Stranger She Married)
OPEN TO INTERNATIONAL ENTRIES: IN THE CASE OF AN INTERNATIONAL WINNER, AN E-BOOK VERSION OF THE STRANGER SHE MARRIED WILL BE AWARDED
WINNER: Valerie Bongards of Germany.

June 9
SPONSOR: Diony George
PRIZE: Autographed copy of Torn Apart, a fictional novel based on a true story. "If it could happen to Alyson, it could happen to anyone..."
QUESTION: What TV station interviewed Diony about her book? (Hint watch video for the answer)
WEBSITE/BLOG: http://diony-george.blogspot.com
USA ENTRIES ONLY
WINNER: June Kirk of Arizona.

June 10
SPONSOR: Tina Scott
PRIZE: autographed copy of Coyote's Grand Adventure - children's picture book
QUESTION: What did Coyote always dream of doing? (Hint: Look under “Library” tab)
WEBSITE/BLOG: http://tinascott.net
OPEN TO INTERNATIONAL ENTRIES
WINNER: Venetia Wilhelmsen of Arizona.

June 11
SPONSOR: Cindy Beck
PRIZE: Winner's choice of one of the following anthologies featuring Cindy's stories (autographed copy): My Dad is My Hero, Cup of Comfort for Breast Cancer Survivors, or Cup of Comfort for Horse Lovers.
QUESTION: What was the name of my horse? (Hint: You can find the answer by going to the website and clicking on the button marked "Books."
WEBSITE/BLOG: www.bythebecks.comUSA ENTRIES ONLY
WINNER: Scott Duncan of Pennsylvania.

June 12
SPONSOR: Valerie Ipson
PRIZE: $15 gift certificate and free shipping for a Vinyl Expressions’ Vinyl Lettering quote (check out http:// vinylsignsanddesigns.blogspot.com for examples of prize)
QUESTION: What is Valerie’s personal writing quote? (Hint: see quotes in right sidebar under “OUT OF THE MOUTHS OF WRITERLY PEOPLE: Valerie’s “personal quote” means just that…her very own quote!)
WEBSITE/BLOG: http://valerieipson.blogspot.com/
USA ENTRIES ONLY
WINNER: Krista Darrach of Arizona.

June 13
SPONSOR: Joyce DiPastena
PRIZE: 2007 Whitney Award Finalist: Loyalty’s Web, medieval romance, autographed by author
QUESTION: What is Heléne’s prayer when Gunthar brushes her cheek with his thumb? (Hint: Click on “Excerpt” tab on website)
WEBSITE/BLOG: www.joyce-dipastena.com
OPEN TO INTERNATIONAL ENTRIES: IN THE CASE OF AN INTERNATIONAL WINNER, A $20 AMAZON.COM E-CERTIFICATE WILL BE AWARDED TOWARDS THE PURCHASE OF A COPY OF LOYALTY’S WEB
WINNER: Ginny Romney of Arizona.

June 14
SPONSOR: Joan Sowards
PRIZE: LDS Word Puzzles
QUESTION: What is Bednar?
WEBSITE: http://joansowards.com/node/110
USA ENTRIES ONLY
WINNER: Martha Lawson of Mississippi.

June 15
SPONSOR: Anne Bradshaw
PRIZE: Autographed copy of Please, No Zits! & Other Short Stories for LDS Youth, but non-LDS will enjoy it, too! - YA genre (12 upward)
QUESTION: What does author Jeffrey S. Savage say about Please, No Zits? (Hint: scroll down right sidebar on blog)
WEBSITE/BLOG: http://annebradshaw.blogspot.com
USA ENTRIES ONLY
WINNER: Stacey Starley of Utah.

June 16
SPONSOR: Laurie LC Lewis
PRIZE: an autographed copy of BOOK ONE of her Free Men and Dreamers series, Dark Sky at Dawn.
QUESTION: What current political situation has caused a verse of the Star Spangled Banner to be nearly forgotten? (Hint: click on “news” link on website)
WEBSITE: www.laurielclewis.comOPEN TO INTERNATIONAL ENTRIES: IN THE CASE OF AN INTERNATIONAL WINNER, A $25 AMAZON.COM E-CERTIFICATE WILL BE AWARDED TOWARDS THE PURCHASE OF A COPY OF DARK SKY AT DAWN.
WINNER: LuAnn Morgan of Washington State.

June 17
SPONSOR: Jaimey Grant
PRIZE: FREE download of the eBook of your choice (Betrayal, Spellbound, Heartless, or Redemption)
QUESTION: What was the title of the very first Regency romance that Jaimey wrote from beginning to end? (Hint: Check out the post titled: "My Mind : What a Twisted Place to Live")
WEBSITE/BLOG: http://www.jaimeygrant.blogspot.com
OPEN TO INTERNATIONAL ENTRIES
WINNER: Dena Walton of Washington State.

June 18
SPONSOR: Danyelle Ferguson
PRIZE: Free 30 page edit of your manuscript ($30 value)
QUESTION: How does Danyelle's business card describe her? (Hint: check right sidebar on blog)
WEBSITE/BLOG: http://queenoftheclan.blogspot.com/
OPEN TO INTERNATIONAL ENTRIES: Danyelle says: “If they live in the USA, I will print their 30 pages, hand edit, then mail back. If they live outside the USA, I will edit the .doc file and email back.”
WINNER: Julia Groves.

June 19
SPONSOR: Walnut Springs Press
PRIZE: I Can't Believe It's Food Storage by Crystal Godfrey (non-fiction)
QUESTION: What is the most recent new release listed on our blog? (Hint: check out post for April 13, 2009)
WEBSITE/BLOG: http://walnutspringspress.blogspot.com
USA ENTRIES ONLY
WINNER: John Ferguson of Missouri.

June 20
SPONSOR: Caroline Gregory and Shawnette Nielson
PRIZE: Puppy Stew, Children’s Picture book. Finalist for Foreward Book Of The Year award. (NOTE: If you would like an autographed copy, please note that in your entry)
QUESTION: “In order to stay warm, what do you wear underneath your shoes?” (Hint: look under the “Witchisms” tab on website)
WEBSITE/BLOG: http://puppystew.net
OPEN TO INTERNATIONAL ENTRIES
WINNER: Carrie Lundell of California.

June 21
SPONSOR: Marion Webb-De Sisto.
PRIZE: An autographed copy of her ground-breaking book, Crystal Skulls.
QUESTION: Does this book explore ancient crystal skulls or contemporary ones? {Hint: Take a look at “Books” in the main menu)
WEBSITE/BLOG: www.marionwebb-desisto.com
OPEN TO INTERNATIONAL ENTRIES
WINNER: Karen Haas of North Carolina.

June 22
SPONSOR: Inglestone Publishing
PRIZE: Autographed copy of Counting the Cost by Liz Adair
QUESTION: What is the name of the main male character in Counting the Cost?
WEBSITE/BLOG: www.inglestonepublishing.com
USA ENTRIES ONLY
WINNER: Auriette Lindsey of Florida.

June 23
SPONSOR: Cecily Markland/Inglestone Publishing
PRIZE: Autographed copy of children’s picture book, If I Made a Bug, by Cecily Markland
QUESTION: Who is the illustrator of If I Made a Bug? (Hint: the “bookstore” tab)
WEBSITE/BLOG: www.inglestonepublishing.com
USA ENTRIES ONLY
WINNER: Shirley Bahlmann of Utah.

June 24
SPONSOR'S NAME: . Jacquie Rogers
PRIZE: Faery Special Romances (YA novel)
Autographed in USA, not autographed elsewhere.
QUESTION: Why does our family support Neurofibromatosis research? (Hint: Click on “Neurofibromatosis research” link and read Mercedes Rice’s story)
WEBISTE: http://www.jacquierogers.com/faerysr.html
OPEN TO INTERNATIONAL ENTRIES: WINNER LIVING IN A COUNTRY NOT DIRECTLY SERVED BY AN ONLINE BOOKSTORE WILL RECEIVE A PDF COPY.
WINNER: Patricia Cochran of Texas.

June 25
SPONSOR: Terry Deighton
PRIZE: Cup of Comfort for New Mothers (non-fiction, anthology)
QUESTION: Name any two titles from the Cup of Comfort series. (Hint: Look in the store.)
WEBSITE/BLOG: www.cupofcomfort.comUSA ENTRIES ONLY
WINNER: Torren Wilhelmsen of Arizona.

June 26
SPONSOR: Leatherwood Press
PRIZE: Messiah: The Little-known Story of Handel’s Beloved Oratorio, by Tim Slover
QUESTION: Who was the art designer for Messiah: The Little Known Story of Handel’s Beloved Oratorio? (Hint: see post for May 15, 2009)
WEBSITE/BLOG: http://jdp-news.blogspot.comUSA ENTRIES ONLY
WINNER: Taffy Lovell of Utah.

June 27
SPONSOR: Dawson Publishing
PRIZE: Copy of The No Cussing Club by McKay Hatch
QUESTION: How many members of the No Cussing Club are there to date
WEBSITE: www.nocussing.com
USA ENTRIES ONLY
WINNER: Sandi Brown of Idaho.

June 28
SPONSOR: Nicole Zoltack
PRIZE: Woman of Honor (fantasy romance ebook)
QUESTION: What color is Caelan's eyes?
WEBSITE/BLOG: http://nicolezoltack.blogspot.com/
OPEN TO INTERNATIONAL ENTRIES
WINNER: Cindy Sampson Fleet of Canada.

June 29
SPONSOR: Sarah M. Eden
PRIZE: An autographed copy of the Sarah M. Eden Regency romance of your choice
QUESTION: "Name all 7 Jonquil brothers." (Hint: check out "The Jonquil Brothers Series" tab)
WEBSITE/BLOG: www.sarahmeden.com
USA ENTRIES ONLY
WINNER: Eva Minaskanian of Virginia.

June 30
SPONSOR: Marsha Ward
PRIZE: LDStorymakers Writing Secrets
QUESTION: Who is Rulon? (Hint: Click on “Man from Shenandoah” under “Novels” link on website)
WEBSITE/BLOG: http://marshaward.com
USA ENTRIES ONLY
WINNER: Rachel Hanchett of Arizona.

A Celebration Contest

2009-05-07T11:20:00.000-07:00

I've recently finished writing my fifth non-fiction book - Turning to Nature: The Healing Flower Remedies Created by Dr. Edward Bach. In order to celebrate this occasion I'm offering someone the chance to win a print copy of my Fantasy novel Samael's Fall and a cotton bag so that the winner can 'stay green' while shopping. Whoever wins will also find a couple of extra promotional gifts inside the bag. All you need to do to enter the contest is go to my website, click on 'Competitions,' and then on 'A Celebration Contest' for the details. Good Luck!

Spring Sale

2009-04-01T05:45:00.001-07:00

Beat the Credit Crunch and Stay Green!

Spring Sale on eBook Copies of My Books - Throughout the months of April and May I'm offering PDF versions of my books at a 20% reduction. That's £2.80 or $4.00 for each Non-Fiction book and £3.60 or $5.20 for either of my Fantasy novels. Click here for further details.

Happy Springtime Reading!

Easter Competition

2009-03-14T01:54:00.000-07:00

Are you being good and giving up lots of nice things for Lent? Well, just maybe I can persuade you to indulge in a little something. I'm celebrating Easter 2009 by offering a signed copy of whichever one of my books the winner would like to choose. This competition is only open to the members of my website, so if you haven't already joined, make sure you click the 'join' button {top right-hand on my website} in order to be eligible. Make sure you put your email address when you fill out the form. Four second place winners will also be drawn and they will receive a PDF eBook of one of my novels or non-fiction books - their choice. To enter, you need to be a member - that's all! All the names of those who are members on Easter Sunday {April 12} will be put in a hat and the winners will be drawn out on that day by my husband. Hope to see you as a member and Good Luck!

The Year of the Ox

2009-01-22T05:23:00.000-08:00

Are you interested in, or curious about, Chinese Astrology? If your answer is "Yes," then you might like the new article I've just posted on my website. It tells you about the coming Year of the Ox that begins on Monday. There are predictions for each one of the twelve astrological animals, as well as a summary of what we can all expect from 2009. So whatever your Chinese astrological sign, why not hop, fly, or gallop over to the article and enjoy my thoughts on this particular subject? You can read them HERE.

Don't worry if you don't know under which animal sign you were born. There's a link in the article to a page that explains the progression of the years.

A Crystal Valentine's Competition

2009-01-16T07:04:00.001-08:00

This contest is being held to celebrate Valentine's Day 2009. To the winner I'll be giving away a free signed copy of my latest book - Crystal Companions - together with two pairs of earrings. In keeping with the crystalline theme, they are a pair of sterling silver and amethyst earrings and a pair of rose quartz studs. Apart from the one lucky winner, four other names will be drawn to win a second-place prize of a PDF version of the book. So even if you don’t get those hearts and roses from that someone, who has caught your eye, you might just win these crystal gifts from me. If you’d like to enter the competition, go to the competition page to read the 'how to' details. The winner and second-place winners will be drawn on February 14. Good Luck!

Second Annual All Day Christmas Chat

2008-12-10T01:12:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow {Thursday December 11} AuthorIsland will be holding its second Christmas Chat. Many authors, including myself, will be taking part, sharing book excerpts, contests, giveaways and some favorite cookie recipes. Also, every hour a Christmas ornament will be given away to a Chat participant. The festivities begin at 9 a.m. EST and will last throughout the day so do join us for some fun.

To Join The Chat sign up at http://groups.yahoo.com/subscribe/authorislandchat
and make sure you are set to INDIVIDUAL EMAILS. Hope to see you there!

AuthorIsland Christmas Kindle Giveaway

2008-12-07T04:35:00.000-08:00

There's a fantastic prize up for grabs - an Amazon Kindle - right now from some of the AuthorIsland authors. In order to enter this contest you will need to go the Island, and then click on 'Contests.' Good Luck!!

A Free Copy of Crystal Companions.

2008-11-10T02:08:00.000-08:00

On November 18 the book on offer at AuthorIsland will be my latest non-fiction work - Crystal Companions - so don't forget to check the 'Book of the Day' contest at the Island on that day. The instructions for entering the competition will be given as well as where to send your entry email. Good luck!

Crystal Companions: The Use of the Mineral Kingdom within Modern-day Metaphysics.

An innovative look at how crystals and crystal skulls are being incorporated into various modern-day metaphysical pursuits by the author and other practitioners in order to improve their performance. The effect crystalline energy has on therapies, spiritual pursuits and divination techniques is highlighted in this book, together with brief outlines on the histories of these various practices. Such disciplines as Past Life Regression, Reiki, Yoga, Shamanism and Crystal Therapy are documented and discussed in detail. Divination strategies of the Tarot, the Runes, Scrying and Dowsing are also combined with the properties of the mineral kingdom, and the resulting outcomes are explored. In addition, helpful exercises, recommendations and crystal ‘know-how’ are included for both the professional and the novice. The author is a qualified Crystal Healing practitioner and her examination of various crystal-enhanced procedures is a valuable handbook for anyone interested in discovering the powerful crystalline world and its impact on healing, spirituality and divination.

Just in Time for Christmas

2008-10-18T03:26:00.001-07:00

How would you like to have both Indy and a book about magical crystal skulls for Christmas? No you don't need to write a letter to Santa and you don't even have to "be good for goodness sake!" I'm offering a copy of my book Crystal Skulls and the DVD Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull to the winner of my latest competition. In order to enter this contest go to my website, click on 'Competitions,' and then on 'December Competition.' The drawing will take place on December 16. Good Luck!

Crystal Companions

2008-10-02T06:55:00.000-07:00

My latest book has just become available. It's a must-have handbook for anyone fascinated by crystals and New Age practices.

Crystal Companions: The Use of the Mineral Kingdom within Modern-day Metaphysics.

An innovative look at how crystals and crystal skulls are being incorporated into various modern-day metaphysical pursuits by the author and other practitioners in order to improve their performance. The effect crystalline energy has on therapies, spiritual pursuits and divination techniques is highlighted in this book, together with brief outlines on the histories of these various practices. Such disciplines as Past Life Regression, Reiki, Yoga, Shamanism and Crystal Therapy are documented and discussed in detail. Divination strategies of the Tarot, the Runes, Scrying and Dowsing are also combined with the properties of the mineral kingdom, and the resulting outcomes are explored. In addition, helpful exercises, recommendations and crystal ‘know-how’ are included for both the professional and the novice. The author is a qualified Crystal Healing practitioner and her examination of various crystal-enhanced procedures is a valuable handbook for anyone interested in discovering the powerful crystalline world and its impact on healing, spirituality and divination.

Read an Excerpt

Buy Book

September Competition.

2008-09-06T08:09:00.000-07:00

The days are getting cooler and the nights are drawing in, but don't feel blue. Enter my September Competition and you could be the winner. I'll take you on a fantasy adventure with a free copy of my book Abbadon. You'll meet the archangelic brothers who have been banished to a hellish terrain where essence-drinking demons and energy-sapping plants thrive. This story has heroes like Seriel and Michael, and such villains as Samael, Azazel and Lucifer. There are heroines named Malkura and Manah, contrasted by a less-than-luminary Lilith. It's a tale of conflict and romance, drawing the line between goodness and evil while emphasizing how one quality can sometimes be entwined with the other.

This competition will also give you a little bling-bling. There's a silver and malachite pendant and a silver moon ring. Both were handmade in Bali and will be sent in a Chinese presentation purse. Silver is all about Yin energy, femininity and Goddess power. Malachite is for the emotions, bringing stability in self-love and affairs of the heart. So why not enter? All you need to do is go to my website and click on 'Competitions.' Information on how to enter is given there, and Good Luck!!

Marion's Website

Two Free Books

2008-08-13T02:09:00.001-07:00

On Friday August 8 my sixth book, Crystal Companions, was sent to the publisher. To mark this event I am offering a competition for a free printed copy of both Samael's Fall and Abbadon, which are the first two books of the Fantasy trilogy – The Angelic Chronicles. They tell the story of the rivalry between the two archangel brothers, Samael and Seriel, and their love for Malkura. Book One explains how Samael fell from grace and became the Devil. Book Two documents the siblings' adventures once they are exiled to Abbadon, otherwise known as Hell.

The closing date is Monday August 25, so in order to take part, go to my website and click on ‘Competitions.’ The instructions for entering this contest are given there. Good Luck!

Congratulations to the Winners.

2008-08-03T02:35:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to the winners of AuthorIsland's second birthday competitions! Two people each won an Amazon Kindle and two people each won 'A Book A Week For A Year.' For names and further details, go to the Island. And why not visit there every day to explore the other contests and 'giveaways'? A free copy of my book Soul Wisdom, Volume Two will be up for grabs on August 12 in the 'Book of the Day' competition. So why not check it out on that day?

A Free Copy of 'Soul Wisdom, Volume One.'

2008-07-23T02:25:00.000-07:00

My book Soul Wisdom, Volume One is the 'Book of the Day' on Authorisland today {23/7}. For a chance to win the free copy go to the Island and scroll down the main page until you reach the contest heading "Here's Today's Book Of The Day!" Good luck!

Two Fantastic Competitions For Free Books & An Amazon Kindle..

2008-07-02T05:50:00.000-07:00

As a way of celebrating Author Island's second birthday, two competitions for some wonderful free gifts are on offer during July. Two lucky winners will be gifted with a different book each week for a whole year and two winners will each receive an Amazon Kindle. In order to find out exactly how to enter these contests, go to http://www.authorisland.com/ and click on 'Contests.' Next, scroll down to "Booklovers This Is The Contest For You!" and then to "AuthorIsland.com Birthday Kindle Giveaway!" Don't miss out and Good Luck!

All Day Chat.

2008-06-30T11:19:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow {Tuesday July 1} Author Island will be holding another day-long Chat. This event kicks off the very special July birthday celebrations for Author Island because it is 2 years old this month. Many authors, including myself, will be taking part, sharing book news, excerpts, contests, giveaways and cake recipes. So do join us for a fun-filled day. To JOIN THE CHAT simply sign up here - http://groups.yahoo.com/subscribe/authorislandchat and make sure you are set to INDIVIDUAL EMAILS. The Chat will run from 10.00 a.m. to 7.00 p.m. EST. Hope to chat with you there.

Marion. ^j^

Win a free copy of 'Abbadon.'

2008-06-03T06:02:00.000-07:00

After the demise of my old website, the new one is now active. To celebrate this event, I'm offering a competition for a signed copy of Abbadon, Book Two of The Angelic Chronicles, together with a pocket-size {1.5/8" from front to back} Smokey Quartz skull. This little crystal friend has nice rainbows in the back and sides of the cranium. In order to enter this contest, go to www.marionwebb-desisto.com and click on 'Competitions.' A winner will be drawn on June 30. Good luck!

Thank You, Indie!

2008-05-21T03:13:00.000-07:00

During the past three or four months the prospect of a long-awaited Indiana Jones movie has definitely boosted the sales of my book about crystal skulls. I'm sure people, who have never given any thought to these carved minerals, are becoming curious about them. It will be interesting to see whether the crystal skull is portayed in the movie as a spiritual tool, as in Indie's search for the Holy Grail, or a harbinger of doom. If you've read my book, you'll know where my thoughts lie on the subject of crystal skulls.

Win A Free Copy of 'Crystal Skulls.'

2008-05-15T10:49:00.000-07:00

Want to be daring and adventurous like Indiana Jones? Then click here for information on the competition for a free copy of Marion's book - Crystal Skulls: Emissaries of Healing & Sacred Wisdom. This contest coincides with the release of the movie 'Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull.'

My New Website.

2008-05-15T05:51:00.000-07:00

My new website is finally 'out there.' The old one got lost when the server crunched. It will take me a little time to get used to its layout as it is different from the other one. Take a look at Inner Balance/Outer Harmony.

Blessings, Maz. ^j^