It’s not often that two books written by the same author, when they are totally different genres, can be combined into one collection.
Touched By The Light is a fun, romantic read. Is it possible to fix someone’s relationship from the other side of life? Well, Mya feels she’s been given the task to do just that after ‘following the light’. What ensues is little short of mayhem at times and you will see the story from the perspectives of several of the main characters. This was quite an important aspect when telling the story as Mya tries to make sense out of her new form of existence. Whilst it is purely fictional, it does contain elements that will make you wonder and some of the paranormal experiences in the book are based on things that I have myself experienced.
So that links nicely into Being A Sceptic Is Oh So Easy. This is really a ‘sort of’ diary of things that have happened to me since early childhood. For most of my life I acknowledged things I felt I had really seen, or experienced, but I filed them away ‘in the attic of my mind’. Some things are better not explored. Then my husband and I had a shared experience. Oh dear, dilemma. Then another. Then we began actually talking about it and it coincided with a time in my life when suddenly it all seemed to start making some sense. This isn’t a heavy read, it’s very personal as some of the incidents are related to the loss of loved ones, some are experiences in some of the houses I’ve owned or visited. I also talk about deja vu, coincidences, luck – things that I now believe tie in to my overall acceptance that life after death is real. I really believe that no one can ‘convince’ anyone and that people searching for ‘proof’ are entirely missing the point. If – and then when – you are ready to open your eyes you will receive all the proof you need. Our loved ones are there by our side, we just need to listen to them!
So two books become one collection and I hope readers really do enjoy a light, uplifting and, at times, thought-provoking read that will also entertain. Thank you for dropping by and please do get in touch if you want to share your own experiences me with!
Linn
PS I’ve also included two chapters from my next novel, Never Alone. It’s another psychic romance with a very different twist! It will be released in 2013.
2011 was an amazing year. A big ‘thank you’ to my publishers Book Guild Publishing for their support, guidance and advice. The journey started in 2009, when I first penned this story and 2010 was the year it which Book Guild turned it from a manuscript, into a beautifully bound book with a shiny new cover! It was released in 2011.
I nervously awaited reviews and was delighted – actually THRILLED – to read some of the very kind comments reviewers gave it, you can read some of them here: reviews.
So what’s new in 2012? Well, there’s a new review posted on 29 January 2012 by the lovely Ananda.
I asked Ananda to tell me a little more about herself: “I am a dreamer and books help me escape to my own world of fantasy where everything is possible.
When I am not dreaming and reading, I am working as a Teaching Assistant at the University in Macedonia (it’s a small country on the Balkan Peninsula, South East Europe and I love calling it A Kingdom Far Far Away). Currently I am working on my PhD in nanotechnologies and nanomaterials chasing my dream in becoming a University Professor. But my dreams would never fulfill if it wasn’t for my biggest blessings and supporters in my life, my adorable six year old son and my lovely husband.”
Ananda’s verdict on Touched By The Light:
“Wow, what a fantastic book! I’m thinking about the genre… it’s really hard for me to classify this book. WHY? Well the story involves mediums and ghosts, and a part of me says this could be a romance with paranormal twist, but then again… the story just seems too real and there’s a lovely message hidden, so another part of me would classify it as a spiritual read, book about life and hope.
Hmmm, but the point is, no matter which genre I classify it in, it’s an amazing book, which without any doubt I will re-read again and probably, again enjoy the story.”
Thank you so much for your kind words Ananda! So delighted you enjoyed it!
the story of how I came to believe in life after death .....
In 2011 I also released Being A Sceptic Is Oh So Easy in Kindle format. As sales have grown I’ve had requests to release it as a paperback book and it will be available online (Amazon and other book websites) from late February 2012. I recently updated this true story and added a final update about my late Uncle Sidney. He died on 23 October 2011 and I thought it was too soon for him to let me know he had made the transition. Well, I stand corrected and as it marked the end of an era (he was the last of four siblings – my mother had three brothers), it seemed only right to complete ‘his’ story as he features in the original version of the book.
What astounds me is the volume of Emails I receive where readers who contact me after reading ‘Sceptic’ to tell me their own experiences! It seems there are a LOT of closet believers out there!
My next project in 2012 is the publication of The Quintessential Gemini. A fun, romantic read this time without a single spirit in sight….. although there is a ‘knowing’ cat named No. 4!
This is the working cover, but the final cover should be available very shortly, in the meantime here’s an overview to tell you all about it:-
For twenty-one years the main focus of Katherine Dale’s life has been her work. Love interests and hobbies came and went; but ways there for her, her only constant – other than her cat delightfully named No. 4 – was her nine to five habit. Until she’s replaced.
Her confidence is dented and she’s angry; at life and at herself. She’s failed to grasp the office politics that were going on around her and ignored hints of ‘changes to come’ in her horoscope forecasts. For over twenty years she has followed Mark Ainsley-Thomas, a renowned Astrologer in the UK and USA. His daily forecasts direct the way she lives her life as a typically complex Gemini. Mark is now an ‘A’ list celebrity and his new Agent is determined to raise his profile in America, so he has to take on James Kingman to help him run his website.
Katherine is totally confused by James’ forecasts. After a couple of Email exchanges, James admits he’s writing the daily forecasts now instead of Mark and advises her ‘it’s probably best not to get too bogged down with the minute detail’. And then the fun and games begin…….
Before I go, I would also like to mention that there are two big projects in which I’m involved this year, that will be equally as much fun as turning my manuscripts into published books!
21 March 2012 – I’m going to be involved with Sir William Romney’s school, when I will be doing a talk to some of their students. I will be featuring a ‘flash fiction’ project in which they will be taking part on this website – so look out for news about this – future authors in the making!
16 June 2012 – Loveahappyending.com is hosting the first ‘Summer Audience’ event in Tetbury, Gloucestershire at Sir William Romney’s school. It’s a day for readers and people interested in writing – a day to mingle with a large group of authors – some new, some well established and listen to some interesting talks.
What I love most about a ‘new year’ is that it is a blank page – the problem is I’ve already filled page one and am busy scribbling on the next one…… life is what you make it, and it can be such FUN!
A very special ‘thank you’ to book reviewer Alice Berger – and here’s why…..
Touched by The Light
There will always be something very special about one’s first book review by someone who is completely unknown to you, although you have been following their review website. Alice and Gene Berger run Bergers Book Reviews and it is a great review website. When Alice kindly agreed to review my debut novel Touched By The Light shortly after it was released earlier this year, I was nervous. Conscious that I’ve chosen a writing style that is frowned upon – I write in the first person through the eyes of (in this case) all five of the main characters.
Here is Alice’s review, posted on 3 May 2011:-
Mya isn’t quite sure where she is, when she suddenly realizes she’s no longer in her body. She remembers a hospital and workers scurrying around her, but then she makes her way toward the light and reaches what she thinks is the other side. But where is everyone else? Why isn’t anyone around to help her adjust?
Laurel is able to communicate with spirits, and she and Mya become friends. Drawn to Laurel’s relationship with Dan, Mya is convinced she’s in this purgatory of sorts in order to help them. But then she loses touch with Laurel and begins a new friendship with Dan – this time without the benefit of speaking.
It’s impossible for me to tell much more about this story without giving away all the intricate plot twists that make it such a fun read. Romance, good friendships, and the paranormal blend together so nicely, with a cast of believable and well-developed characters. Everyone grows as a result of their experiences, and the reader is rewarded with a happy ending.
Touched By the Light is Linn B. Halton’s first work of fiction, and it’s a dandy. I look forward to reading more from this talented new author.
Today I was invited back to be interviewed by Alice to talk about what inspired my debut novel, psychic experiences that have influenced my writing (but in a fun way) and loveahappyending.com – so click through to see how our little ‘chat’ went …..http://t.co/jce7gxj
Alice herself is a children’s book author of:-
“Who’s Taking a Bath?” by Alice Berger
and also offers a manuscript reading service, so do please stop by and visit Bergers Book Reviews!
Friday, 13 May 2011 and a big ‘thank you’ to Mike Angley for the great interview published today on his website.
We talked about ‘Touched By The Light’, why I decided to start writing psychic novels, and future projects that I hope to publish in 2011/2012.
It was lovely meeting Mike, he is a great guy and I can thoroughly recommend his books. He’s had an interesting life and it is reflected in his writing!
More information about Mike – he is the award-winning author of the Child Finder Trilogy. He retired from the Air Force in 2007 following a 25-year career as a Special Agent with the Office of Special Investigations (OSI). He writes thrillers with a paranormal twist. His protagonist is a man whose deep faith guides him through his page-turning perils. The Child Finder Trilogy is a hot thriller series with a light, somewhat edgy spiritual theme…it is not typical Christian fiction. But fans of that genre as well as suspense and thriller enthusiasts thoroughly enjoy it!
The Child Finder Trilogy. The truth is not out there…it’s in here, in the final book…and it’s not what you think. Of course, it’s just fiction. It’s not real…or is it?
Inspired by real-life experiences…follow the paranormal adventures of an Air Force Special Agent as the government exploits his psychic abilities to find abducted children. Rescuing them is a noble pursuit, but it comes at great cost. Special Agent Patrick O’Donnell must battle dark, murderous forces within his own trusted inner circle, as well as unimaginable evil that threatens his family. Before his journey ends, Pat will learn explosive government information that will rock his understanding of life, the universe, and his own faith. Perhaps some secrets are best kept hidden…..
The cover of a book does, without a doubt, draw you to a particular title.
The blurb on the jacket may entice you, but it’s always nice to read what other people have to say about it, isn’t it?
Here is a selection of the reviews for ‘Touched By The Light’, which I hope will make this book one you will want to take home and read for yourself:-
Review posted by Alice Berger, reviewer and author http://bergersbookreviews.com/2011/05/03/touched-by-the-light/Mya isn’t quite sure where she is, when she suddenly realizes she’s no longer in her body. She remembers a hospital and workers scurrying around her, but then she makes her way toward the light and reaches what she thinks is the other side. But where is everyone else? Why isn’t anyone around to help her adjust?
Laurel is able to communicate with spirits, and she and Mya become friends. Drawn to Laurel’s relationship with Dan, Mya is convinced she’s in this purgatory of sorts in order to help them. But then she loses touch with Laurel and begins a new friendship with Dan – this time without the benefit of speaking.
It’s impossible for me to tell much more about this story without giving away all the intricate plot twists that make it such a fun read. Romance, good friendships, and the paranormal blend together so nicely, with a cast of believable and well-developed characters. Everyone grows as a result of their experiences, and the reader is rewarded with a happy ending.
Touched By the Light is Linn B. Halton’s first work of fiction, and it’s a dandy. I look forward to reading more from this talented new author.
When I purchased my Kindle I promised myself I would not buy any more paper books but the release of ‘Touched by The Light’ made me break that vow such was my enthusiasm to read this book. And I wasn’t disappointed. It is a brilliant read.
This Psychic Romance delivers on all counts even if you don’t believe in the supernatural and paranormal, life after death, spirits or anything remotely psychic. Touched by the Light draws you into the story immediately when Mya, knowing she has died, is thrust unwittingly and unwillingly into a quest to bring together two love-torn people, Laurel and Dan.
There are no ghosts to spook you, just one or two things that do go bump in the day; a door slamming, items being thrown across a room but these are just ways Mya makes herself known to Dan. Laurel can talk to spirits, and Mya finds herself able to communicate with her, trying to make sense of her own predicament as well as solving Laurel’s difficulties even when summoned by a Ouija board and a medium who tries to make sense of what is going on in their two worlds.
Although at times we do lose sight of Mya a little along the way, the ending is surprising, raising more questions than can possibly be answered on this journey into the spirit world, but a satisfactory conclusion nonetheless.
New writers are frequently told not to write in the first person because of how limiting this is in enabling the necessary reactions and actions between characters but Linn has achieved what many writers never do. She has created strong, believable characters in an intriguing plot that moves forward a pace. Each chapter is told from one character’s viewpoint delivered in the first person. And it works! No small feat for a new writer.
So, well done Linn on a superb read. I look forward to reading more of your books in the not too distant future.
This is a good and imaginative story about the problems a young woman faces when she unexpectedly finds herself in the afterlife. It is cleverly constructed and well written with a nice romantic interplay between the characters, who are interesting and sympathetic. Just when you start to think you understand what’s happening, a couple of well-timed plot twists keep you wanting to read on as the plot moves to a satisfying finale.
I’m a lover of books, especially mysteries but enjoy branching out into other genres as well. I like writing book reviews and sharing them. I also enjoy hosting authors on my blog – Thoughts in Progress – where they can share their thoughts on writing and tell everyone about their latest book releases.
It’s always fun to drop by and read her ‘Thoughts in Progress’, or even better, join up and receive her daily posts delivered straight to you Inbox!
Another chance to win a signed copy is coming soon – details to be announced in the next couple of weeks!
***Now closed – winner – Petra from Romania congratulations!
Kitt’s ‘Month of Love’ feature – an extract from ‘Touched by The Light’ with a special narrative added for this event. Answer a simple question for your chance to win a signed copy – closing date 7 March 2011! Paste this link into your address bar to go to the Paperback Dolls website and scroll down the ‘Month of Love’ page until you find Touched By The Light!
Following the release of ‘Touched by The Light’ (available from Amazon) here are some extracts to give you a flavour of this story. Mya tries to understand why she is suddenly connected to Laurel and Dan, two people she didn’t know before she saw ‘the light’. Their relationship is in trouble, is she supposed to be helping them ? Or is she just floundering around with no-one to guide her on her journey ….
EXTRACT 1:-
So here I am. It’s the weirdest thing but I seem to be watching someone else’s life I just don’t know how else to describe it. I’m not sure where I am – and this is going to sound even weirder – I feel ‘here’ but there’s no physical presence to this feeling. I still feel ‘me’ – same thoughts, same memories but it’s almost like I’m floating and seeing only through my mind’s eye. I know it sounds insane but I need to try to explain, to make some sense of it. When I stop panicking and relax, what I see and feel is what is going on in someone else’s life. Yes, I know, I know how it sounds but just because it sounds unbelievable that doesn’t mean I’m not experiencing it.
EXTRACT 2:-
‘But Laurel, I’m dead.’ I’m expecting some sort of reaction here, but she just skips over my words as if they aren’t relevant.
‘You’ve probably been shown some link to your next life,’ she tells me with a slight sniff, while she dabs at her eyes with a soggy tissue.
‘Next life? What “next life”? You didn’t say anything about that before.’ There’s only so much earth-shattering news I can take in at any one time and this is all becoming a little over-whelming.
‘Look, sor-reee. It’s just that I think Dan is going to break up with me and I don’t know what to do or why things are going so wrong. I thought you were sent to help me but you’re really hard work. You keep distracting me when I need to have my mind free to think about what’s going wrong with my life and what I’m going to do about it.’
Wow, now I feel selfish. After all, I’m only dead and Laurel and Dan might be splitting up! Great, I can still be sarcastic in the afterlife!
EXTRACT 3:-
I’m increasingly finding that having no concept of time is really making things difficult. At first, ‘down time’, as I’ve started to think of the time when I’m not linked to Laurel, was peaceful, tranquil even. Thinking of the things that happened in my life, I wasn’t sad, but happy and I laughed a lot. In fact, it was great. Now things are getting complicated and I seem to be spending whatever time I have ‘unlinked’ trying to work out what’s going on. Then, when we do link up again, I have absolutely no idea how long it’s been since the last time I saw her, or what has happened in between, it’s really diff- hell! With no warning at all, once again I’m somewhere else.
EXTRACT 4:-
Now that my eyes have adjusted to the darkness I scan around the room. I can see there are seven or eight people sitting around quite a large table. The woman who’s speaking is telling the group to put their fingers on a glass in the centre of what I can see now is a Ouija board! Suddenly I’m being dragged up to the ceiling, directly above them. It’s like I’m pinned up here and these people are doing this to me. Un-be-live-able and I’m starting to fell really, really angry.
EXTRACT 5:-
My name is Grace Norris and I’m a medium. What does that mean? Well, I believe that when people leave their bodies behind, what I like to think of as ‘the essence’ of the person moves on to the afterlife. I try not to use the word ‘death’ unless I absolutely have to, because it really upsets some spirits. Moving across into the new dimension can be very difficult, as some find it hard letting go of this side of life. Sometimes they hang back because their loved ones can’t accept what has happened and I think they feel a sense of guilt. I also have a personal theory that spirits sometimes instinctively fight, without being sure exactly what it is they’re fighting against or why. It’s a pity, because what’s to come is enlightening and they find a peace and purpose that gives a point to the life they had on earth. Well, that’s true for most spirits, but there are, of course, those who suffer unfortunate deaths or have wronged others in this life and the transition is harder for them. But Dan’s haunting sounds unusual ……………..
EXTRACT 6:-
‘Dan I know someone who’s doing research into telepathy, telekinesis, those sorts of things. I think we’re looking at something a little unusual here – nothing to worry about, but if you really want some answers it might be worth us paying him a visit. What do you think?’
‘Yeah, I’ll give anything a try. You’re a great lady, Grace, and I appreciate your kindness. My life at the moment seems to centre around trying to get some answers, I’ve got the list of questions – that was the easy part.’ He laughs.
‘I know, I know. Life isn’t always going to be so tough, you know The happiness will come, it’s in your future all right, but there are a few things you need to experience first. Trust me, there’s nothing bad to worry about – if there was I’d be warning you!’
Author’s note – when Grace said to Dan ‘there are a few things you need to experience first’, I don’t think even she had any idea just how much of an understatement that was! A psychic conundrum was about to unravel…
It’s not often that two books written by the same author, when they are totally different genres, can be combined into one collection.
