Today’s featured author is C.L. Pardington. As a member of the Romance Writers of America and stay-at-home mom, C.L. Pardington recently decided to put her creative energy into writing books and we are glad she has. Talin’s Echo, Book One in her upcoming series – Warriors of the Atlantean Empires series will be available Winter 2012 likely before Christmas.
I sat down with C.L. and asked her a few questions for this interview. She happily answered them as well as provided a not-before-seen excerpt from her book. You’ll be able to read Chapter 1 below.
Giveaway
C.L. is having a giveaway today as well. She‘ll be give away two bookmarks and a mermaid jewelry box. (Click the image to enlarge it). To enter the giveaway, post a comment on this article only (other comments on other articles will not be selected) and you’ll be entered in the drawing she’ll have. C.L. will notify the winner via email.
PLEASE NOTE: ANY COMMENTS GIVEN ON THIS ARTICLE POST AFTER NOV. 3RD MAY NOT ELIBIGLE FOR THE GIVEAWAY DRAWING(S).
What is Talin’s Echo About?
Talin Ariskan has spent his life being groomed to become the future emperor of Atlantis, which has given him little time to find his future empress, much to his mother’s dismay.
Echo is a head-strong mer-princess, who’s being forced by her father into a mating she doesn’t want. When she discovers a hidden abyss, an unexpected transformation begins…
In a strange world, unsure of everything and hiding her true identity, she meets Talin and realizes he is the man she has always dreamed of.
When he discovers what she really is, will their love survive or will they be torn apart forever?
Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?
Yes, and there is no short answer for this question. To answer it I have to give you a little background.
In May of 2009, my husband and I were at home one evening and there was nothing on cable, so we decided to see what was on Pay-Per-View. That’s when we came upon a movie called ‘Twilight’. We had never heard of the movie before, so we read up on the synopsis, and decided it sounded interesting enough to rent.
That, as the proverbial saying goes, was the night that changed my life…
To say I loved the movie was an understatement. At the time I had no idea it was based on a book until the ending credits. So I did some research on the series and bought them. Now, at this point I hadn’t read a book since I was in the fifth grade, which was around 1980. I had lost the desire for reading and frankly didn’t have the time for it. But when I got the Twilight books, I told myself; this would the series that would rekindle my interest. But, they sat on my bookshelves for quite a few months untouched.
Now move ahead to November 2009…the movie New Moon came out in the theaters. At that point I was so enthralled with the Twilight phenomenon; I bought tickets to the midnight showing. After leaving the theater that evening, I told my husband, now I have to read these books. So the next day, I picked up the first book and 3 1/2 weeks later, I had read all four. Then immediately read them all a second time. After that I started buying vampire romance books by the dozens and in one year I read 67 books. I was enjoying reading so much that I actually started considering writing myself, but didn’t act on it.
Move ahead again to February 2012, after months and months of tossing it around in my head, I realized this wasn’t just a passing phase and I decided to sit my husband down and tell him what I wanted to do. Of course, I thought he would think I was crazy, but he didn’t, he said let’s see what you need to do to get started and we’ll do it.
Fast forward one more time to today…I can’t believe I’m doing my first interview and about to publish my first book.
How did you come up with the title?
While doing research, I was Googling names for Atlanteans, and I came across the name Talin. Echo, on-the-other-hand, has always been a name I loved. I came across it when I was a kid playing a popular Sega Genesis video game, called Echo the Dolphin. So I thought that would be a perfect name for a mermaid. Anyway, now I had this long list of names for both sides, so as I was picking eight Atlantean names and eight Mer names for the series, these two particular names kept standing out, and I thought to myself these two must be made for each other (as a couple). So I jotted the names down side by side and all of a sudden it hit me…what a unique title for a book, something that really stands out and roles right off the tongue.
What motivates you to write?
Two things keep me motivated. The first is…as long as I am reading a romance book; I always feel the need to write. And the second is…I always have the scores from all the Twilight movies playing in the background of my office. For some reason the dramatic sound of the music soothes me while writing and puts me in the moment.
Did you learn anything from writing your book? If so, what was it?
While writing this book I’ve bought numerous books about Atlantis. And since everything points to Atlantis following the Greek lifestyle, I heavily researched the ancient Greek and Pompeian civilizations. I even recently went to the Denver Museum to see the ‘A Day in Pompeii’ exhibit. (Pompeii lived very much as the Greeks did). So what originally was to be just a fantasy romance series has now turned into a history lesson for me. Seeing the exhibit changed me inside. I felt it as I left the museum. It left me with such sadness. But it also gave me the inspiration to make my books as accurate as I possibly could with details of things that were part of these worlds. In a way, it’s my way of honoring their lives.
What authors have influenced your life and writing?
This is a very easy question to answer, you, Ally, as well as, Amanda Ashley, Everly Drummond, Gabrielle Bisset, Laura Kaye, Sharon Hamilton, and Tina Folsom.
If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?
I actually have four mentors, Gabrielle Bisset, Laura Kaye, Scott Prussing, and Tina Folsom. Each and every one of them has been there for me whenever I had a question or needed help with my writing.
What book are you reading now?
‘Desire the Night’ by Amanda Ashley
Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?
Abigail Gibbs, author of ‘The Dark Heroine: Dinner with a Vampire’
What are your current projects?
I’m currently working on Talin’s Echo, hopefully to be released by Christmas. Then I’m planning to write the first book in a new trilogy I’ve created. It’s the ‘Liquid’ Trilogy and the first book will be ‘Liquid Descent’. Once that is completed, I will then write the second book in the ‘Warriors of the Atlantean Empire’ series, ‘Atlas’s Rogue’.
Who designed the covers?
Cover Artist Fiona Jayde. Cover Model Jimmy Thomas introduced us and she has done an amazing job of creating what was in my mind’s eye.
What was the hardest part of writing your book?
The hardest part for me had to be creating two new worlds that don’t exist. At least with Atlantis, I could get ideas of their civilization from ancient Greece and Pompeii, but Oceania, there was nothing to go on. So to be able to create those worlds in my head and then try to explain it through words to readers is no easy task.
Are you an Indie Author? If so, what do you like about independent publishing?
I like, no I love, the fact that ALL creative control is mine, from my characters, to my book covers.
Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?
If you had of told me a year ago I’d be writing my own book, I’d have told you, you were crazy. Not everyone gets to find out what it is they were meant to do in life. It took me 41 years to finally figure out what I wanted to be when I grew up. So when it happens, don’t let it pass you by.
Can you share a little of your current work with us?
Yes, I’d love to. Here’s Chapter One from ‘Talin’s Echo’…
CHAPTER 1
“Father, you can’t force me to marry him!”
King Atargatis watched his oldest daughter, Echo, stand before him, her arms crossed in defiance. Her flowing white hair swayed across her pale face and down along her arm, hiding her markings. She had always been strong-willed and he usually let her get her way. Not this time.
“You will marry Aramis and that’s final! Do you hear me?” he shouted back, harsher than he intended.
Echo balled her hands into fists, fury burning at her insides. “Why would you make me marry him when I don’t love him?”
“Your mother and I’d like for you to have an heir or two, to take over the throne someday. And at the rate you’re going—”
She cut her father off before he could finish. “If you think for one minute I’d ever let him touch me, then you have clearly lost your mind!” A chill ran down her spine. What a disgusting thought, to have Aramis’s hands touching her.
“I will not have you speak to me like that!” Whether or not he was her father, he was also the Ruler of Oceania. He couldn’t allow someone to swim in on their heated exchange and overhear her speak to him in that manner.
“If you’re going to force me to marry Aramis against my will, then I’ll speak to you however I choose!” She gave him one last look through narrowed brown eyes before she flicked her tailfin and swam as fast as she could out of the royal cavern and far away from her father.
Streaks of sunlight from the surface beamed through the holes in the coral rocks which made up the palace walls, casting a beautiful reflection of waves throughout the entire room as Naia entered. Frowning, she watched from the doorway as her husband held his forehead against the palm of his hand. He sat on his gold throne across the vast room which was filled with ornate items that had been collected throughout their kingdom’s history. The coral walls were filled with life. Small groupings of anemone lodged themselves sporadically throughout the room, and protecting themselves within the security of the anemone’s venomous tentacles, were small Percula Clownfish.
At that moment her attention was drawn to a small school of Yellow Tangs passing through. She loved watching the surrounding sea life thrive. It meant all was well in the kingdom, even if all was not well at home.
Naia turned her attention back to her husband and gave out a long sigh while looking at him. The passing years had been very good to him. He was still as ruggedly handsome as the day he made her his queen. She loved the way his gold crown complimented his dark tan complexion. The way the sunlight shimmered on the golden brown scales of his tailfin sent shivers down her flowing pink fin.
She swam over to him and brushed a strand of his white hair away from his face. She cupped her hands on his cheeks and looked into his brown eyes.
“Before I came through the door, I heard your conversation with Echo through the door. You can’t expect her to abide by your commands instantly this time. She’s always dreamt of falling in love and having a family of her own. Being told to marry someone she’s obviously not in love with can’t be easy for her.”
The lines hardened across Atargatis’s forehead. “She has no choice! And neither do we,” he growled. Staring back into his wife’s shimmering brown eyes, he couldn’t help but soften his expression. Nearly whispering now, he said, “How much longer am I supposed to hold my patience with her? Echo’s almost twenty-eight years old for Triton’s sake! That’s nearly three years past when she should’ve mated. We can’t postpone this any longer.”
Dropping her hands from his cheeks Naia settled onto her own throne. “Well, you already know how I feel about this situation,” she said with disappointment in her voice. “You shouldn’t have promised our daughter to Hekili’s son in the first place. Giving him a position in the Guard would’ve been reward enough.”
She didn’t feel Aramis treated their daughter with respect. And she definitely didn’t see love in his eyes when he looked at her. No, in Naia’s opinion, Echo was merely a means to embed himself deeper into the family in an attempt to further his position in the Guard.
She knew her husband would never allow that to happen! The only position above Captain was General; that rank was only held by someone from their bloodline. Their oldest son, Sian, held that privilege. Even if something were to happen to Sian, their other son, Finn—who currently held the rank of Guardian—would become the new General, skipping right over Aramis.
“Yes. I’m well aware of your feelings, or lack thereof, toward Aramis. But I didn’t have a choice. Hekili saved my life and in return I had to give him whatever he wanted,” Atargatis responded. Although he regretted promising his daughter’s hand, he had every intention on keeping his promise.
* * *
Letting the flowing current of the water assist her, Echo darted through the dimly lit passages toward her chamber. The sun above was starting to set and soon the floating orbs of light that laced the passages would brighten to full capacity, making it easier for the Mers to see. Even though they had the capability to see in full darkness, it was a draining magical power that they reserved unless they truly needed it.
Upon entering her chamber, she spied her younger sister’s orange tail and flowing long brown hair. Nerissa had been waiting by the entrance for her. Echo swam by her without a word, too upset to speak. Nerissa started to enter the chamber after her, but paused when she heard Echo’s best friend, Ariana, call her name.
“What’s wrong with Eck?” asked Ariana.
“I’m not sure yet,” Nerissa answered. “She just swam by me without saying a word, but I’d bet my life our father is involved somehow.”
Nerissa and Ariana entered Echo’s chamber and found her resting on her kelp bed. Cradling her face in her hands, she was crying with an occasional wince thrown in. Mers hated to cry because clear crystals would form in the corners of their eyes instead of tears, stinging them.
Echo looked up and dropped her hands to her lap when she realized she was no longer alone. They could then see the last of the tiny crystals falling from her eyes.
Ariana hung back as Nerissa swam over and rested beside her sister. Growing up, Nerissa and Echo had always been very close. And although many of their physical features were different, she and Echo were very much alike.
Putting her arm around Echo, her voice laced with concern, she asked, “What has our father done this time?”
Before she answered, Echo looked around her spacious chamber. Her eyes fell upon the layers of coral rock adorning the farthest side, some of the layers protruding out farther than others. Those particular layers were the ones she used to display the numerous treasures their father had given her throughout her life. She’d spend hours looking at them when she was alone with just her thoughts. Her favorite was a palace her father had carved from seashells when he was a young merchild. But now she looked at them as if they were his way of buying her off so she’d do what he wanted—to marry and mate with the person she hated the most—Aramis.
“He’s refusing to budge! He won’t release my obligation to marry you-know-who!” she finally answered. It made her almost ill to say his name, so she avoided it whenever possible. “I just don’t understand why he’s forcing me to marry that blowfish!”
“I wish I had an answer for you, sis. But who knows what runs through our father’s mind when he does the things he does.”
Nerissa was all too familiar with the way their father tried to control their lives. She knew she was fast approaching mating age as well and was already preparing herself to have to deal with him. He could go to Scylla or Charybdis before she was going to let him have a say in who she married.
In the next moment Ariana swam up to Echo. They’d grown up together. Her father was once a Guardian for the Royal Guard under the command of then General Atargatis. The girls had become fast friends and were inseparable.
Stopping in front of Echo, Ariana tucked her turquoise fin beneath her and gently settled against the sandy bottom. She brushed the strands of her long brown hair away from her face, draping them over her bare breasts and then rested her hands on top of Echo’s.
“I hate seeing what this is doing to you Eck. And I’m so disappointed in your father for putting you through all of this.” She turned her head and winked at Nerissa before looking back at Echo. “But we promise to find a way to help you get out of this mess.”
###
I’d like to thank C.L. for being on my blog and wish her the best of luck with her the launch of her new series. Please check out her contact info below. I’ve asked C.L. to come back and be a featured guest on my blog in December when her book is released and she agreed to stop back by.
Contact Info
Website: www.clpardingtonbooks.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/c.l.pardington.writer
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/CLPardington
C. L.’s Sirens Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/C.L.Sirens/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/CLPardington
Ally Thomas 
First of all, I have to tell you that your book has totally captured my attention. I love the idea, the gorgeous cover, and the excerpt! I can’t wait for December to come so I can buy Talin’s Echo for my kindle. Loved your interview and learning the motivation behind your writing. I’m a big Twilight fan too. I love what you said about indie publishing. Having creative control of everything is awesome!
I have no doubt that this book is going to soar onto the Amazon charts! It’s going to be a fantastic series and I can’t wait! : )
Hi Chrissy, Thank you so much. I’m so happy you liked it. Being this is my first book and I’ve never written anything before, I can’t tell you how many edits it took to get it where my editor Tracy and I finally finalized it! She is heaven sent for sure.
Oops, I forgot one thing. I wanted to thank Ally Thomas too. I love your blog Ally! Thanks for hosting this interview. Loved the questions that you asked. And thanks C.L. for the wonderful giveaway! You both are AWESOME!!!!!!
Aww, thank you. I think you’re pretty awesome yourself.
Cheryl, I just think you are so beautiful and amazing and your new series looks like a masterpiece! I hope you won’t forget me when you hit the big time, hugs, Storm
Aww, Storm, thank you so much. You’ve become such a wonderful friend. Don’t forget we are walking the red carpet together. ((HUGS))
WOWWWWW!!! CL, I found myself totally forgetting the fact that it is after 4:00 in the morning and I’m exhausted as I read your interview and first chapter. I could feel your enthusiasm for writing, but even more, once I started reading the chapter, I felt as if I was there in the story with Echo and the other characters. I wondered how you would “pull it off” to make me believe in an undersea world peopled by mermaids and mermen and within a few paragraphs, I was hooked. I kept wanting to read more when the chapter came to an end! Super congratulations for a fantastic book that I am anxious to read! Let me know when it is available!!
Hi Deborah! I already had tears in my eyes from the other comments, then I read this and the flood gates opened. Thank you so much for your comment.
Thanks again C.L. for being on my blog today! I’m so happy that it was the first interview for your upcoming book! I loved the chapter. I know you’ll do great! What wonderful language you describe this new world with! “Streaks of sunlight from the surface beamed through the holes in the coral rocks which made up the palace walls, casting a beautiful reflection of waves throughout the entire room as Naia entered.” It’s wonderful! Congrats and good luck!
It’s an honor to be here Ally. I can’t thank you enough for giving me the opportunity and for everything you’ve done to make it so special.
Growing up in Miami, FL, I literally grew up practically a fish in water. So even though Oceania is a place that doesn’t exist, describing an undersea world came very easily for me. Plus, I used to have eight saltwater tanks, so I am very knowledgeable when it comes to sea life and that helps a lot.
This series is on my list of “ants in the pants, just gotta have it or I will burst” list! I wonder…if I sit on Santa’s knee and ask really nicely, wether I might be able to buy a copy for Christmas :D, I hope so!
Thank Ally For having CL on your blog. I loved reading every single word, and thoroughly enjoyed an inner look into CL’s creative world 😀
❤ Ellen
Hi Ellen! Thank you so much. I so glad you liked it. You too have become such a wonderful friend. Thank you for all your late night advice. 🙂
I think you have been a very good girl for Santa! lol
I so enjoyed the interview today with C.L. PARDINGTON and am looking forward to the release of her book ” Talins Echo “. I have also read more then once the Twilight series and find it very interesting that you would have the same interest that I have . While I was reading your first chapter of your book I felt as though I was there in the Royal cavern (what a cool idea )
that is always a good thing for me , means I am bound to enjoy what I am reading when I disappear from my livingroom . My goodness could almost see the air bubbles in the water surrounding me . Thank you very much Ally for having C.L. here today have been wanting to get more of her perspective on her characters and her story line . Well done ladies . I will be back later when I can clearly think of some questions I have been curious about thank you so much .
Hi Dora-lee! I’m so glad you enjoyed the interview and chapter one. I look forward to any questions you have for me.
Smiles….this was like chatting to you myself Cheryl, Ally asking all the questions I have been wanting to ask. Lovely to learn how you got started, a great inspiration to those still dreaming of writing their own book. OMG just wanted to continue to read Talin’s Echo, thank goodness we don’t have to wait to much longer, and I so liked the idea of not only reading a great story, but learning alittle history too, that only enhances a book for me.
Thank you both, thoroughly enjoyed your interview.
Hi Kath! Thank you for stopping by today. I am always available if you ever want to ask me anything. I am enjoying getting to learn some history while writing the book.
wow what a great interview, and the book sounds great. I honestly cant wait to read it. Thank you both.
Hi Beanieboo! Thank you so much for stopping by today. I glad you enjoyed the interview and chapter one. 🙂
I always check out whoever Ally has on her blog. She never disappoints. Thanks for sharing an excerpt from your new book, CL. The passage captured my attention right away and I love the description of Oceania. Made me feel like I was there with my scuba mask watching. I’ll be waiting for your release – got to grab my copy! Happy writing.
Hi Catherine! Aww, thank you. I’m glad I could take you there with me. This is just a small taste of this world. Wait till you see the rest of it. 🙂
I love that Twilight influenced you, I love the series and I feel it gets bagged a lot for ridiculous reasons.
That little tease of a chapter was Awesome very engrossing and I’m hooked enough to want to read the rest, well done!!!!
I’ve seen the book trailer for this and it’s really well done thoroughly enjoyable I’m really looking forward to Meison and Ariana’s story they seem like the sweetest couple.
Good going cant wait to read more!!!!
Hi Erica! Thank you for stopping by today. Yes, I am a huge Twilight fan. Don’t tell anyone but I have a small room in my basement that has nothing but Twilight memorabilia in it (my Twilight room)! lol
Meison & Ariana’s book will be the fourth one. You’re correct. I choose this couple because they do look very sweet. Ariana is Echo’s best friend, so you will get to learn a little about her before her book.
Thank you for the lovely mention, C.L. That’s so sweet of you. ❤ As an historian who enjoys studying ancient civilizations, I love to see the Greek influence in books. I'm looking forward to seeing how you weave it into the story. Congratulations on the upcoming release!
Hi Gabrielle! It means so much that you stopped by and read my interview and chapter. It ‘s an honor for me to call you a mentor and a friend.
Greek mythology as always fascinated me. It was always the subject I looked forward to in school every year growing up. So I am enjoying getting to use some of that in my own story.
Good morning Ladies! Isn’t it wonderful to have something fresh and unique to look forward to? That’s whats causing so much excitement for ‘Talin’s Echo’. This is going to be BIG. Thanks for sharing the experience with us.
Hi Sandra! Thank you so much for stopping by and thank you for your kind words. ❤
Fantastic interview CL and Ally! I think that this series is going to so amazing, something fresh and very different. We are all anxiously awaiting the release of Talin’s Echo! Thanks for sharing a bit of yourself with us.
Hi Renee! Thank you so much. It was my pleasure opening up for all of you. This has been an extremely fun experience.
Hello, Ally! Pleased to “meet” you 🙂
Great interview, Ladies! Cheryl, you are so brave to pursue your dream and I admire that. I finally had the opportunity to read Chapter 1 of Talin’s Echo – yay! Now that I have a taste of it, I look forward to reading Echo and Talin’s story in December. Please count me in for the Release Day because I wouldn’t miss it. Congratulations on your debut and here’s wishing you success and happiness! P.S. I’m already a fan of yours 🙂
Hi Hai-Yen! You are so sweet. I think it was easier for me to pursue writing because I am already a stay-at-home mom. So even though I have five kids, I still had plenty of down time at night (since I don’t sleep much) to put my creativity to use.
Good Morning, Cheryl and Ally. Cheryl, thank you for sharing yourself with us all, and showing us the jourrney that your imagination has taken you. It is an inspiration to those of us who still have that spark inside, but haven’t moved upon it yet..it is never too late! 😉 Your worlds of Atlantis and Oceania have called to me since I first heard that you would be writing back in March, I think it was. Being someone who has been in love with Atlantis from the first I heard of it, I just knew this was a series I was going to NEED to read. Now, to know that Talin’s Echo is almost here, is such an exciting event for those of us who have watched and supported you over these months. Funny, how we as your readers-to-be can be so thrilled for you, but FB has allowed those reader’s who wish to become ‘close’ to their authors that very opportunity. It is a world that is wide open and I, for one, love the connections and friendships I have made, both in the Author’s I support, and my ‘Team Mates’! Some of your mentors, are those very same author’s that I adore and to have them as mentors. well, that ROCKS bigtime. I am so looking forwad to December, when I can get my hands on “Talin’s Echo”!! (and have you sign it, of course)
I have to also say this, thank you, Ally, for supporting Cheryl and bringing her on your blog. One thing that has struck me most, is that there are so many Indie authors that are willing to step up and support not only the neewbies, but those who have been around. This community of writers is wonderful because they reach out and help each other, no matter what. You are the best!
Have a wonderful day, ladies.
Hi Phyllis! It was my pleasure to open myself up for you guys. One thing I am enjoying most in all of this, is like you said, connecting with some many wonderful people. FB has definitely made that possible. I have connected with so many people that I now call ‘real’ friends, and I love that. I want you guys to know that I’m always available to you whenever you want to ask me anything.
I have been extremely lucky to have connected with some amazing authors and even luckier that I have some of them as mentors. So it is very important for me to pay-it-forward. I am always thrilled when I can help out another author the way so many have helped me.
Great interview! I can’t wait to read the rest of the book too! :o)
HaHa! Right!! Love ya! 🙂
Excellent Interview Cheryl and Ally !! When reading your chapter I could really see the arguement between echo and her father.. And imagine the beautiful cavern with all the crystals..I am very excited for you and your upcoming Book…Thank you for sharing the Chapter with Us ❤
Hi Evernight23! Thank you so much for stopping by today. I am excited you enjoyed Chapter One.
Good morning ladies what a lovely interview I am so excited to read C.L. Books when they come out. I am jumping out of my seat doing the happy dance. Love chapter one of Talin’s Echo I am hooked what a beautiful world you have created I can’t wait for more.
Hi Tina! Thank you for coming by today. I’m thrilled you liked chapter one so much. I am creating a much bigger world for you, two worlds in fact! 🙂
There are no words that begin to describe how excited I am for the release of this book and the series too! CL has done an amazing job (as well as Fiona and Cora too), chapter one is only the tip of the iceberg, I cannot wait for the book to be published and read it in its entirety. Great job CL!
Thank you babe! You are my greatest supporter and I love you always and forever! ❤
This looks so amazing! It reminds me a bit of Alyssa Day’s Warriors Of Atlantis series, which I adore and the chapter is intriguing. I’m definitely going to be picking this one up & checking it out! Best of luck, C.L.!
Hi Vicki! Thank you for stopping by today. I have not heard of that series. I will have to check it out once I am done with my books. I have stayed away from anything having to do with Atlantis or mermaids, so I don’t get influenced by them.
I’m so happy you enjoyed chapter one. 🙂
Hey Cheryl! I waited all week for this interview! Thanks for the “Teaser Trailer” aka Chapter 1.
Now I’m even more eager for the series to begin! Congrats, good luck, & see ya with the other Sirens- wink,wink!!!! Kristi
Hi Kristi! Thank you so much. I’m so glad you liked the chapter and I’m thrilled to have you be a part of the Sirens. ❤
What a ‘fantabulous’ & excinting interview, Ally & Cheryl!!!
I cannot express into words how excited and honoured I am to be going on this amazing journey with you, Cheryl. 🙂 I absolutely have no doubt that ‘Talin’s Echo’ will be a best seller as will the full series of ‘Warriors of the Atlantean Empire’. Thank you so much for allowing me to be part of this wonderful adventure. ❤
Ally, thank you so much for having Cheryl on your Blog today and helping get the word out about her and her upcoming book, Talin's Echo. 😀
Aww Gayle, thank you. I am so grateful for everything you have done for me. I’m just as honored to have you with me for this incredible experience. ❤
Ally, Thank You for interviewing C L, she is one very talented lady and I for one can’t wait to have her books to read and treasure. The interview was absolutely fantastic. Hurry up December!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hi Mom! Aww, thank you so much for your love and support. I love you.
I think I decided that I wanted to read this book when I saw that beautiful cover. I love stories that involve mermaids. Thanks for the preview. Congrats on the upcoming release.
Hi Sheryl! I’m so glad you stopped by today. It was my pleasure to share chapter one with you. Thank you for the congrats. 🙂
Hello Ally! Thanks for the great interview.
And Cheryl! I was hooked when Gayle posted about ‘Talin’s Echo’ a while ago. Being a graphic designer, I can appreciate a good design, all of them are gorgeous. Then I watched the video, and it was like wow. Reading here the first chapter…. gotta have it.
I like reading about authors and what makes them tick. It is so amazing that you are so approachable and easy going. Wish you luck and looking forward to swim into the world you create.
Hi Enikö! thank you for coming today. I’m so glad you like the cover and all of the fabulous artwork Cora has done.
I want you to know you can always contact me. I love getting to know you all. We have become such a tight family and you are part of that too.
Great interview! I can’t wait til December!
Hi Billie! Thank you so much for stopping by today. I really appreciate your support.
Goodmorning Cheryl and Ally!! What a fabulous interview from both of you. I for one have never been into romance novels, my favorite book style was murder mystery. Watching you go through this experience and getting introduced to a lot of the authors that you know has definately made me curious enough to look outside the box and now I am hooked. I am so intrigued by your new series coming out, it is something so different than anything I have ever seen. How you explain their world in the first chapter makes you believe that you are there….it is an amazing experience. 🙂 I can guarantee I will have “Talin’s Echo” on my Nook the second it comes out. Thank you for bringing us on this journey with you. I absolutely love it. ❤
Aww Heidi, I so glad I was part of bringing you to the other side. LOL I am so proud to call you family. Thank you for your love and support. I love you.
wow was fabulous hun well done, loved it and can’t wait for the book xxx
Hi Kerry! Thank you so much for all of your support. You have been a great friend.
Wow CL (and thanks to Ally) – Love this series. I was already going to buy it because of the covers (that was before we became friends), then because of the friendship, and now for another reason: your premise. What a fantastic, fresh take. The colors, the fins, the little things that create such a special world, I just love it. Can’t wait!!
I agree with what has been said before. Your debut will be huge. I predict great success!!
Oh Sharon, as you can see above you were one of my influences, but now to get to call you ‘friend’ is even more amazing and special to me. Thank you for all of your support.
Right back at ya!
Great interview and wonderful excerpt. I love the artwork for your covers and I can’t wait to read more!
Bravo!
Alexandra Anthony
Hi Alexandra! I am so thrilled you stopped by and that you liked chapter one.
I am so proud of the covers Fiona did for me. She absolutely nailed what I had pictured in my head.
Now I can’t wait for the book. IM not good at comments I just know what I like and this is it. Thank you and waiting patiently.
Hi Lori! I LOVED your comment. Thank you so much, I truly appreciate your support.
I really enjoyed the interview ladies. it was very exciting reading the first chapter, im so pleased that its going to be a wonderful series with so many lovely heroes and heroines. the cover, poster and book marks are like a piece of art. CL im so glad you decided to follow your dream and write. we have so much to look fotward to now with all your exciting series. I wish you all the very best, with without doubt is already a winner
Hi Julie! You have been one of my biggest supporters from the very beginning. Thank you for everything. I will do my best to give you some juicy heros.
sounds marvellous thanks CL
Wow! Cheryl you and I have something in common that sparked our interest in writing, Twilight! Who would have know. I can’t wait to read the first chapter 🙂 This book sounds so intriguing and I pray it does very well.
Hi CM! I thought I was one of the few that was influenced by Twilight, but we are not as rare of a breed as you might think. In just the past 2 days I have come across five (you being one of them). I really hope you enjoy the chapter. Please let me know what you think.
Thank you so much for your support.
Wonderful interview. I do so look forward to reading your book and visiting with you. I issue you an invitation to blog on my site sometimes soon, please.
Hi Sable! I’m so happy you came today. I would absolutely love to to visit your blog. You name it and I’m there. Thank you so much.
What a fabulous interview, Cheryl. Thank you so much for sharing so much of yourself. Its always interesting, to me, to hear how other people got into writing. I look forward to reading your books as Atlantis has always been of interest to me.
Hi Gretchen! Thank you for stopping by today. I’m glad I had a chance to share myself with you. Thank you so much for your support.
Love the Interview Cheryl and Ally!!! I love reading about Mer people and have been able to find very few books (that I’ve liked) on them so I am really really excited about this series!! Thanks so much for sharing Chapter 1 and I definitely know what I am getting myself for Christmas this year!!!
Hi Holly! Aww, thank you. I really appreciate your kind words. Thank you so much for your support.
I am really looking forward to reading your books 🙂
Hi Dawn! Thank you so much for your friendship and support. ❤
CL I have heard so much about how good this book will be from Gayle and Eniko. *I Love the Atlantean site that Gayle has set up for the books . I am truly excited and can’t wait for your first one.
Fran… thanks so much for those kind words about Chery’s web site, *hugs* but Cheryl is the one that set it up and also did up my web page as well. All the credit goes to Cheryl. 🙂
Hi Emily! Thank you so much for stopping by today. I’m glad you enjoy the website so much. We are trying to make it a very pleasurable experience (visually and with sound).
Hi Cheryl. I enjoyed your interview very much. I have just recently started reading your series and am enjoying it very much. I love the Atlantean theme 🙂 Keep up the great work.
Hi Cindy! thank you so much for stopping by today and for your support. 🙂
Amazing interview. I’m so excited for your books to come out! And thank you so much for sharing a little information about you, as well as your books with all of us! 🙂
Hi Nancy! I’m glad I got the opportunity to share myself with you all. Thank you for visiting today and for your support.
Great interview-loved to get info on the upcomming book-also cant wait to read it! Woohoo! Thanks for taking some time to do this for all of us-you are amazing!
Hi Dannielle! Aww, thank you sweetie. I truly appreciate your friendship and your support. ❤
I have to agree with everyone else, WOW!! I am already hooked into this book and I’m anxiously waiting for it’s release. You are an amazing talent Cheryl, and I am so happy for you. ❤
Lori
Hi Lori! I really appreciate that, thank you for your friendship and support. ❤
Thank you for sharing your interview, it’s really nice that you have 4 mentors. I am lucky enough to have some good friends too that help me. I wish you the very best of luck, hugs, Lee xxx
Hi Lee! That’s wonderful to have friends like that. Thank you for coming by today and for your support.
Great Article and a man who would rent twilight from the synopsis definately was a night meant for you to discover new possibilties. Hope you enormous success hugs Tracie
Hi Tracie! Thank you for stopping by. I’m glad you enjoyed the interview. My hubby is a great guy. He puts up with my Twilight stuff. He even goes to the midnight shows with me. lol
Hi C.L.,
I enjoyed your interview. I have to say that it’s refreshing to have an author say they didn’t enjoy reading all their life…I thought I was the lone wolf in that area!!
With this being your first published work, did you find that you learned to write as you went, improving with each chapter?
Thanks again for giving us a peek into your author’s mind!! 🙂
Amy
Hi Amy! I’m so happy you came by today. lol, I thought I was alone in that too. Who’s ever heard of an author that didn’t like to read. Right!! Now I’m addicted to reading. Love it.
Amy, I have five words…I LOVE MY EDITOR TRACY. Which also happens to be my dear friend and next door neighbor. I absolutely knew zip when I started writing, except of course the basics they teach you in high school. When I started writing I didn’t have an editor yet, so I was winging it. And thank goodness for my mentors. Whenever I had a questions about anything they were always there to answer them. Everyday I am still learning new things. Like just today for instance a friend of mine asked me if my books were going to be erotic or erotica, and I had to ask her what the difference was. i honestly thought it was the same thing. But it is getting easier for me as I go.
Thank you so much for your question.
What a wonderful interview Cheryl!! I love getting to know the story behind an authors work. I can’t wait for Talin’s Echo to be released. I am very excited since I have been following you when there was barely a story. I hope you have great success and I will be more than happy to share your work with others. You are so special and I am blessed to have you as my friend<3<3
Hi Nicole! You made me tear up. Thank you so much for that. If my memory serves me correctly, I think you were the very first person that started paying attention to what I was up too. And through all these months I am lucky enough to call you my friend. I don’t know what I did to deserve meeting you and some of the other girls. But what ever it was, I have been truly blessed. We will be friends forever. ❤
You are one of the nicest authors out there I’ve yet to meet, your passion and drive to help others is astounding, I love the whole concept you have created and can’t wait someday to see it in the movies 🙂
Oh Jane, you are making my tear up even more. Like I just told Nicole above, you are another person I have been blessed to meet and call a dear friend.
It gives me great personal pleasure to help out others whenever possible.
And as far as the movies go…the saying I believe goes…from your mouth to God’s ears! What a great dream.
I agree with Jane on the movies I have from the begining thought your books would be absolutely perfect for such an adventure would be another ROCKY with a Twilight feel each book another chapter amazing ideas coming to mind. I had tried several times today was happy to finally with your help to get here with everyone else . You have from the first time we spoke been kind and generous to a fault with sharing your fantastical world of Atlantian. I really feel like that is a place I could go to vacation . If only sighhhh . Well I needed to come and wish you CONTINUED success and that you reach every Goal you ever set yourself and all the ones YOU did not see but We as your fans DO SEE . Thank you again for the wonderful Interview It has been a pleasure to be a part of this day with you .
Aww, thank you so much Dora-lee. You are so sweet. I really enjoy our chats. And I truly appreciate your support and friendship. ❤
This was a great interview and I’m so happy to have got to read the first chapter. I’m looking forward to the whole book now.. I totally agree with what you say about not letting chances pass and it never being too late to find your path. I’m not a Twilight fan but I’ll look at the books in a kinder light now I know they’ve inspired something good.
Hi Nephylim, I’m so happy you got a chance to stop by and read the interview and the chapter. Once I started considering getting into writing, I’m glad I took the time to sit and stir on it for a few months. I gave me the chance to make sure this wasn’t just a passing phase, that I truly wanted to do this and stick with it.
I swear I left this comment here yesterday! Fun interview! I enjoyed reading more about the author. I’m a fan of the Twilight series too, but because of the covers. (it’s my job) And CL’s cover is stunning too. (pretty sure I said more, but I can’t remember now)
Kindly,
Tamian
Graphic Designer
Beyond Design International
LOL, hi Tamian! I’m so glad you came back by. I’m thrilled you liked the interview and the cover too.
That was a great interview C.L!.. I love the name Echo for the heroine and she is a mer-princess.. Ohhh I can’t wait to read your book!!!
Thank you AL! I’m glad you got a chance to come by and read everything. Me too, I have been in love with that name since a was a teenager.
I was in a class that time :D, and now too LOL. But I’l try to come on time on your interviews. And also Echo, it’s a beautiful name, truly.
Wow…you TRULY have found your calling. I loved your interview and it is nice to find out how all of this came about. I have all the faith in the world that you are going to rise to the top in a very short time. Kudos:o)
Thank you Michelle! From the very beginning, I have valued your opinion. If it wasn’t for you I wouldn’t have the incredible covers I have now. I am so thankful for your friendship. ❤
Awesome ladies. Awesome interview and awesome first chap.
Thank you Amanda! I’m happy you got a chance to stop by and read it. Thank you for your support.
This chapter has completely caught my attention. I am looking forward to getting this book and more afterwards. This is great!!
Ally, thanks for letting us get to know more authors. And I can’t wait for VFH #4!
Aww, well thank you so much Paula. I’m so glad you enjoyed reading it.
Glad I found this! Great interview, first chapter just dragged me to the bottom of the ocean! Can’t wait!
Hi Marci,
I’m so sorry I didn’t see this until now. Thank you so much for the kind words and I’m thrilled you enjoyed chapter one.