Philosophies of a Young Heart

Giveaways and Reviews of Brother Betrayed and Tips for Authors

2012-02-25T04:27:00.001-06:00

Thanks to all the fans who made Brother Betrayed a number one book on Amazon!

(screen shot from February 15th)

To celebrate we are giving away a signed copy of Brother Betrayed through Goodreads, enter to win here:

Goodreads Book Giveaway

Brother, Betrayed

by Danielle Raver

Giveaway ends February 28, 2012.

See the giveaway details
at Goodreads.

Enter to win

Are you an author? Here's some tips for increasing book sales:

1) Find the price "Sweet Spot" - putting your price at $.99 can allow you post your book onto many "Cheap Kindle Book" groups on Facebook, Goodreads, and other public forums. Once sales pick up you can increase the price.

2) Create a blog and let readers know about you and your work. Make sure you feature links back to your book sale sites.

3) Have a cover that appeals to your target audience. I found my cover artist (the fabulous Walt Barna) through Deviant Art, a great community for commissioning.

4) Act like an author, not a salesman - if all you do is spam on Twitter, Facebook, and book forums, then most people will ignore you. Post links to your work, but find other things to announce and discuss.

5) Increase your local audience - send author updates to the culture section of your local newspaper. They may or may not publish all of them - but if they do it's free publicity!

New Reviews of Brother Betrayed

Five Star Review on Amazon:
I just finished Brother Betrayed by the amazing author Danielle Raver, and give it a full 5 Stars! It was a well crafted fantasy novel, filled with characters that came to life on the pages, especially the three princes! It is a large story, and one that takes the reader along for adventure, political intrigue, love, and betrayal. I recommend this book to anyone who likes traditional fantasy on a grand scale.
- Dean Lappi author of Black Numbers

Five Star Review on Amazon:

I didn't have huge expectations when I downloaded this book, but absolutely loved it. I think it clearly depicted the differences between three brothers, and how small personality conflicts as young men can quickly become kingdom-rending during times of war.

- Kenneth Hudley

Five Star Review on Amazon:
'Brother Betrayed' is a fantasy adventure about three young princes. Whilst exploring the lands of their kingdom, one day they come across a mysterious woman who tells them that one day one of the brothers is going to be betray the others, and since then the brothers had been perturbed and uneasy. To an action fan like me, the first half of the book seemed a bit slow-paced, but in the second half there are a lot of epic battles and many intense moments, moments that get you to wonder of how the events will turn out. Action, however, is not the highlight of this book. The highlight to me was how well the major characters were developed, especially the three brothers, and the chemistry between them. It truly felt like they were real people. This is a solid fantasy adventure story.

- Matthew Ashworth author of the Melancholy Wing series

Thanks for visiting! More announcements of upcoming publications by Danielle Raver coming soon!

Fifteen Years of Progress: A Writer's Journey

2012-02-05T12:45:00.001-06:00

Over fifteen years ago I started writing a novel titled Flight Moon. After a series of rewrites, I have finally decided to finish it. The basic story is the same, but as my writing matured, the story had to as well.

I would like to share a sample of this new novel, with the version from the first write and the current scene in progress.

Here is the old version, complete as I wrote it as a preteen (with spelling and grammatical errors as they were in 1998).

Flight Moon heard the voices and something overtook her, she was swelled in a brilliant flash of red light. Gakulisan stepped back and looked at the split-second gleam of colors. He shielded his eyes and then opened them as he felt the sudden heat diminish. He then looked at a small child, barley old enough to walk, which had no legs. Though struck, he still picked up the child and wrapped her in his cloak just as Corban came around the corner. The wizard did not look up to them; he just stared at the child in his arms. Although Gakulisan never saw the baby before, he felt as though he knew her. He looked into the baby’s eyes; they were as red a fire. Flight Moon was alive inside the child.

Lifetime and education experience has molded me into the writer I am today. Hiring an editor was one of the best decisions I made as an author. Being a member of critique websites such as critters.org and Scribophile improved my writing as well.

Here is the new version of the same scene (slight spoiler alert!)

     “Your family is not my concern,” Flight Moon spoke, but felt her throat constricting when she glanced at the child.
     “You seek the Mage... but why, if you are not his allies? Is he your foe?” Corban demanded.
     The dragon’s face twitched. “It depends what he did to me,” she growled.
     The boy infant, startled, turned to face her.
    The back of Flight Moon’s eyes burned at the sight of his face. She felt detached from the vision, as if she moved backwards from it. Surrounded by a tunnel of darkness, the light became smaller. She was falling backwards into herself. She drew one long, distant breath, and the light went out.
     The great beast collapsed before them. Before Gakulisan could approach her, strong energy started to radiate from her body. Surges seared from her like lisps of horizontal flame across the ground. A nearby plant was consumed by the energy and burst into glowing orange ash. The ground beneath the dragon began to char and cinder and the air crackled with unbalanced charge.
     “Get back!” Gakulisan ordered the two onlookers and they complied, watching the dragon’s body remain still, and yet change.
     The dragon was... fading. Her scales seemed translucent. The energy field strengthened, then manifested into a burst of flame. An intense blue sphere expanded outward with a crackling hum. The blanket of flames shot towards the onlookers and they ducked and tried to shield themselves. But Gakulisan looked back. Through the heat distortion he was barely able to see the red of her scales. Then with a dramatic pull of air pressure and a deafening boom, she disappeared.

Thanks for stopping by! Come back again for more excerpts and previews.

All content is original work and copyrighted by the author.

How to Rescue your Book on Goodreads

2012-01-22T16:37:00.000-06:00

This blog will explain how to rescue your book from being removed on Goodreads.

Previously, Goodreads received information from Amazon such as book descriptions, author and publisher info, and book covers.

*STARTING JANUARY 30th GOODREADS WILL DELETE BOOKS WITH INFO RECEIVED FROM AMAZON*

You can, however, rescue your book by following these steps:

IMPORTANT NOTE:

In order for you to edit the details of a book, you must first verify with Goodreads you are the author of the book. Do this by clicking your author name on the Goodreads book page, scroll down to the bottom and click "Is this you?" Goodreads will send you an email to confirm and then in a day or two Goodreads will verify you are the author of the book and allow you to edit the details.

Got your Goodreads account verified? Then follow these steps....

First, gather all the important information, such as publication date and product description. Also, have a picture file (.jpg or .png) of your cover image save to your hard drive.

Next, go to your book's page on Goodreads (if you don't have it bookmarked, go to www.goodreads.com and search for the title of your book at the top)

On your book, search for "edit details" under the product description (it's small and gray)

You may or may not be directed to a page that reads "Rescue the book with ISBN/ASIN #....."

If NOT - your book is safe

If SO - the screen will look like this:

Fill out the details in the fields.

NOTE: Do NOT use Amazon as the source URL. I used my publisher's web address. You could use another site's url if you book is currently published through Barnes and Noble or another book site. If you are the author, I personally think you could use your own website as the source url (since it's your book!). Possibly even shelfari.com or another book information site, though I haven't tried it.

NOTE: The url may have to be written with http://www.(site).com for Goodreads to accept it.

I'll be happy to help if you have more questions. I also love meeting new authors on Goodreads! Find me on Facebook (Danielle Raver, Author)

Character Sketch Contest ~ Print Edition Giveaway

2012-01-22T09:57:00.000-06:00

Do you have a favorite character from BROTHER BETRAYED, FLIGHT MOON, or "The Enchantress" (short story) by Danielle Raver?

You can win a signed copy + shipping of BROTHER BETRAYED two ways:

WHAT DO YOU DO?
1) drawing a sketch of your favorite character from a book by Danielle Raver

2) write a short essay explaining how you are alike a character from one of Danielle's books

WHERE DO YOUR READ?
NOTE: no purchase is necessary, excerpts can be read as samples from Amazon

BROTHER BETRAYED
http://amzn.to/BrotherBetrayed

"The Enchantress" in The Storytellers Anthology
http://amzn.to/StoryAntho

FLIGHT MOON
excerpts from my work in progress can be found on
http://danielleraverauthor.blogspot.com/p/flight-moon-wip.html

WHERE DO YOU SUBMIT?
Upload your sketches or essays on the wall of Danielle Raver, Author Facebook Fan Page

http://on.fb.me/DanielleRaverAuthor

Tweet you are entering!

Developing a Cover for Print - Develop a Concept

2012-01-08T08:26:00.000-06:00

Someone recently asked me how my cover artist and I, Walt Barna, developed the characters that are on my cover for Brother, Betrayed.

I explained that I sent Walt descriptions of each of the characters with pictures I found on-line that were close to each brother. This is what this correspondence looked like:

First Correspondence:

"Here's the details:

Three riders riding/galloping forward through a forest they are unfamiliar with - conifer or leafy forest - not detailed in this part of the book. Nothing outlandish.

The setting is an ancient kingdom, predating known history, but they show a cultural mix of medieval and arabian clothing. Be creative! I was not to specific on their dress. They carry swords and are wearing riding cloaks. Actually considered having them having their cloaks on their heads and shadows covering their faces to add to the dark and foreboding mood (my book is a tragedy, the title is Brother, Betrayed).

The eldest riding in the middle, is kingly, blonde and a little stern (19) and he rides a war horse (never described the color in the book - maybe white?).

The middle brother (18-17) is charming, strong and dashing. He has long curly black hair (I don't care if it is drawn back) and rides a wild black stallion.

The youngest (16) has shorter black hair, is curious and likes books, but I really don't want him to be a dweeb- he is my protagonist - maybe also describe him as pensive and deep.

The weather is early spring and chilly so they are clothed semi-thickly. Their cloth is plain but their arrogance betrays their true nature.
Like I said, their culture is unique. Be creative. :-)"

Concepts for the horses:

"I want the three horses galloping towards the foreground. Syah's horse is a brown mare, Oman's horse is a large war horse. Fasime's horse is a wild black stallion."

Concepts for the brothers:

     "Syah has dark, short hair and dark eyes. He is shortest, but still around 5’6”. He has a thin-to-medium build, but compared to his brothers he is small. He carries a one-handed sword. He also keeps his journal and maps. He is 15-16 at the time of their journey. He rides a calm, strong mare, red/brown in color.

     Fasime has dark, longer curly hair. He has amber eyes. He is medium build, he hunts with a bow and tames horses. He also carries a two handed sword. He is charming and high-spirited. He is 17-18. He rides a black, wild stallion “black like crow’s feathers” named Lightning.

     Oman is the eldest and is kingly. He is slightly more muscular than Fasime but they are close in height. He has lighter brown hair and brown eyes. He is 19. He rides a warhorse, I didn’t specify the color."

Concepts for the setting, mood, and clothing:

"Really like how there is an eerie glow of light from back in the forest."

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The cover depicts a scene early in the book when they are exploring their kingdom. Here is the scene where they change out of their royal clothing in order to sneak out of the capital city as commoners:

The youngest nodded. “It’s time,” he said, reaching for the fastening of his riding coat. His brothers did the same. Luxurious dyed cloth was replaced by plain, worn clothing. The brothers gazed at themselves, and at each other, observing the transformation that had overcome them with such a simple change as their clothing. Privileged, deserving, and protected became common, unnoticeable, and valueless. But this transformation pleased them. They packed the fine cloth tightly into one of their sacks, then stood staring at it.

“We leave all titles behind us from his point onward,” the eldest declared. He took the dark cloak Fasime handed him and tied it around his shoulders. They mounted, pulling hoods over their heads, completing the disguise. Oman started his horse down the alley and the others followed. As they turned into another street, they all held their breath, anticipating their journey might come to an abrupt halt when someone recognized them. But as they passed the workers and merchants, they smiled, realizing no one bowed or curtsied to them, no one noticed them except to move out of the way of their horses.

Early Sketches:

"I love it! Just one major change: Fasime's horse on the left needs to be more wild. Here is some more information on him: The stallion's name is Lightning. The king's horse mated with a wild mare. She was captured, but after the colt was born she was killed during a storm. The colt escaped and wandered the forests for three years. The opening scene to my book is after Fasime tracks and captures the stallion, he tames him. He is not as large as Oman's horse (whose was PERFECT by the way) but not too crazy/scary looking."

Early Drawings:

Here is a scene when they are traveling the woods, Syah has the charge of keeping watch. They often tease Syah, but protect him as well.

     Oman nodded. “Fasime, we had better start our slumber. It will be a long day tomorrow. Syah, wake me soon; I will be the one coming to my senses in the middle of the night. And… wake me if you…”

     “If I hear anything, if I see anything suspicious, or smell something odd that could be likened to ogre’s toenails, yes, yes, I know.” Syah mimicked Oman’s tone. “Now get some sleep,” the youngest said.

     “Hear anything?” Oman started the teasing again.

     “Just go!” Syah commanded. They laid on blankets near the fire. “Good night,” Syah whispered. The forest forgotten around him, Syah watched over the low, hot fire as his brothers’ eyes slowly closed. Dusk darkened to deep night beyond the fire. Then he was sure they slept, seeing their chests slowly rise and fall, and their bodies eased and still on their blankets.

     The burden of keeping the watch was heavy upon the young prince. His sleeping brothers put their trust in him for their very lives. But did they know?

     He would give anything, everything to protect them.

Early Covers:

Changed the colors to more cooler tones. Added font for ebook cover.

Completed Cover with Fonts:

A special thanks to Walt Barna for bringing my characters to life. Here's a picture of him holding his copy of Brother Betrayed:

Find out more about Walt Barna on his page: link

Walt will also be doing the cover to my next book, Flight Moon. Here's a hint at the next concept: it has a dragon on it :)

Author Tour Enterprise and Troy Alabama Area

2012-01-05T00:34:00.000-06:00

Paranormal author Joan Hazel and fantasy author Danielle Raver are doing a joint author meet and greet and book signing in January.

Below are details of where you can find them and info on their Amazon best selling books.

Events:

Meet the Authors

Paranormal Author Debut

Post Exchange on Fort Rucker,

between Ozark and Enterprise, AL

9am to 2pm

Saturday, Jan 7th

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Casual Conversations with Local Authors

Village Coffee in Troy, AL

8am to 2pm

Saturday, Jan 14th

About Joan Hazel:

Joan Hazel is a local Troy area author. She writes paranormal fiction novels set in modern times. Visit her at www.joanhazel.com

THE LAST GUARDIAN

Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble

About Danielle Raver:

Danielle Raver is a former Troy University graduate. She writes classic fantasy novels with a dark twist. Visit her at www.danielleraver.com

BROTHER BETRAYED

Available from Amazon and Barnes & Noble

Battles, Sieges, and Wars of Brother Betrayed

2011-12-28T16:59:00.001-06:00

Brother Betrayed by Danielle Raver

Tweet you were here!

There are two elements of battle in this novel. First, the main characters are often engaged in hand to hand combat, their chosen weapons usually being swords. To write these scenes with some historical accuracy, I studied different types of swords and their uses in combat. It helps that my husband collects swords and built his own forge in the back yard.

The other element of warfare in Brother, Betrayed comes from the main kingdom being at constant war with the surrounding tribes. These battles I modeled after battles fought in the Crusades. Though set in a fantasy world, there is a strong emphasis on knights, archers, cavalry, and siege weapons and tactics.

Several sequences in Brother, Betrayed were based on the Siege of Antioch, where a small number of soldiers defended against a large army in the First Crusade.

An excerpt from a hand to hand combat scene from Brother, Betrayed:

The large man stepped back, drawing his sword. Syah watched him grasp the hilt with both hands and then stand still. “You strike first,” Malgar said, as usual, “gradually to start.”

Syah nodded again as he drew his sword. His mind moved ahead of his actions, calculating the trainer’s moves, his vulnerabilities with a larger, slower sword. The prince moved towards him, swinging his blade downward and stepping to the side.

Malgar parried. “Good, and again,” he ordered.

Syah turned and swung at him from the other side. The trainer parried again and the prince tried at him from a different angle.

“Now faster,” Malgar ordered, stepping back to avoid the prince’s novice blade. The prince could feel his breathing grow shallow and his pulse quicken. He felt a rush of energy, his mind clear, thinking ahead of his strikes, evaluating and executing.

“Good,” Malgar said, “now defend.” Syah changed his stance to block the trainer’s sword. He saw the man’s direction; he watched the position of his sword, predicting his actions. Syah felt satisfaction as he was able to block each of Malgar’s attacks.

“Very nice, you defend well,” the trainer praised. “You know the moves well. Now we’ll increase the speed.”

Syah shifted his sword as Malgar came towards him. The prince held his ground a moment, but stepped back after blocking several quick attacks. Malgar moved forward again. Syah glanced at the trainer’s face, seeing his eyes were narrow, resolute, angry. Syah tightened his hands on the hilt and continued to defensively position his sword to prevent Malgar’s attacks from following through. The weapons master pushed forward, but Syah was close to the wall and had no room to maneuver. The man’s flashing sword came at him faster; although the prince was able to block it, it was becoming more difficult. Syah tried to move to a more open position away from the wall, but his adversary’s sword prevented him.

Malgar emitted a low, furious battle cry and Syah shuddered.

The wars drive the tension between the brothers as they each try to prove their usefulness to the kingdom. Oman, the eldest, is schooled on war by the king:

“A battle is fluid, my son. We do not plan for a single moment, but a series of possible events.”

“Yes Father,” Oman answered.

“Commander Lenpece, you will lead the majority of our mounted troops behind the Marrian army and wait until we engage them. Then you will herd them towards the hills, where Oman will be waiting with a company of fighters and archers. We will keep some cavalry with the main force in case they decide to send archers to the hills to the west. And I will await them, blocking their way to Bafonville. They will perceive us as a possible victory, a fair fight, and perhaps they will grow spine enough to engage us in open battle.”

Oman watched his men gather around him as the king left, awaiting orders. The king looked back to him after mounting. “Shall the skies shine on our victory today,” he said and tugged on the reins.

“We shall let the king and his army gain ground. When the Marrians see him they will slow their advance. We desire our presence to be secret, so we will approach with care, and gain the opposite side of the hill, out of sight. It will be imperative that they see the king’s army first and decide to match them. We will attack at the opportune moment, giving their army a chance to pass us. When the king’s army tears them down and they retreat, they will be exposed to our attack from the hill. Mount, we will ride until we can see the eastern hills in the distance. Tell the archers to follow behind us. Be wary of enemy scouts crossing the area.” The prince mounted and was followed by his host of soldiers and knights.

Brother, Betrayed on Amazon

Tags: war, fiction war novels, warfare, warriors, Brother Betrayed by Danielle Raver, the Crusades, the Seige of Antioch, The First Crusade, knights, archers, siege, battles

How to Create a "Tweet This" Button

2011-12-28T13:30:00.000-06:00

I've been reading "16 Quick Ways to Squeeze More ROI From Your Blog"

Posted by Corey Eridon on Hubspot Blog

I've decided to try to create a "Tweet This" Button...

Here are the steps I took to create it:

1) Go to the "Developer's Section" on Twitter (link)

2) Fill out "Tweet a Link" button with specific text you want to tweet.

Click to enlarge

When you click this button, a window should come up to share this on twitter with this already written in:

Just learned how to create a "Tweet This" Button from Author @DanielleRaver 's blog! #blogwriting

3) Copy the code into the HTML on your blog's gadget or post

Here is the exact HTML code I generated:

CODE:

<a href="https://twitter.com/share" class="twitter-share-button" data-text="Just learned how to create a "Tweet This" Button from Author @DanielleRaver 's blog! #blogwriting" data-size="large">Tweet</a>
<script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");</script>

Here is what it comes up with!

Interpreted Code:

(CLICK TO TRY IT OUT!)

Try it if you wish! Thanks for the visit!

New Fantasy Books / Books Similar to Brother Betrayed

2011-12-17T16:39:00.000-06:00

Was perusing the books that customers bought who also bought Brother, Betrayed and wanted to give a SHOUT OUT to these other authors. I'm privileged to be on a list with these fine books!

Chronicles of Kale by A Dragon's Awakening
by Aya Knight

Kale Firehart is a young dragon, and the sole survivor of his race. As a tyrannical general and his massive bloodthirsty army close in on Kale—the most unexpected circumstance transpires. With time against him, Kale’s trusted friend, a veteran arcane sorcerer, transforms him into the one thing he despises most—a human. Kale must unwillingly live among human-kind as he embarks upon an extraordinary journey. With a band of unlikely friends by his side, can Kale overcome the obstacles before him and return to the life he once knew? The age of dragons is all but over...

A Storm of Swords
by George R. R. Martin

Like the first two books, A Storm of Swords could coast on the fundamentals: deftly detailed characters, convincing voices and dialogue, a robust back-story, and a satisfyingly unpredictable plot. But it's Martin's consistently bold choices that set the series apart. Every character is fair game for the headman's axe (sometimes literally), and not only do the good guys regularly lose out to the bad guys, you're never exactly sure who you should be cheering for in the first place.

Mageborn: The Blacksmith's Son (Book 1)
by Michael G. Manning

Mordecai’s simple life as the son of a blacksmith is transformed by the discovery of his magical birthright. As he journeys to understand the power within him he is drawn into a dangerous plot to destroy the Duke of Lancaster and undermine the Kingdom of Lothion. Love and treachery combine to embroil him in events he was never prepared to face. What he uncovers will change his understanding of the past, and alter the future of those around him.

Infinity Blade: Awakening
by Brandon Sanderson

Trained from birth in swordplay and combat, a young knight named Siris has journeyed to the Dark Citadel with a single purpose: fight through the army of Titans to face the tyrannical God King in one-on-one combat. This was his father’s sacred mission, and his father’s before him, going back countless generations in an effort to free their people from enslavement. But when Siris somehow succeeds where all those from his bloodline previously have failed, he finds himself cast into a much larger world, filled with warriors and thieves, ancient feuds and shifting alliances, Deathless immortals and would-be kings. His quest for freedom will take him on an epic journey in search of the mythical figure known as the Worker of Secrets – the one being in the world who can unravel the secrets of the Infinity Blade.

The Last Good Knight
by Connie J.Jasperson

Swashbucklers, pirates, sword fighting courageous Knights and Fair maidens abound in The Last Good Knight. In the tradition of a Wilbur Smith and Michael Crichton's Medieval block buster Timeline. Action abounds, it this historical fiction account.
From slaying dragons, to rescuing the King's Whore, to secret missions for good King Henri, no job is too big or too small for the Great Knight, Sir Julian Lackland. But what happens when the only one still willing to take on the bad jobs is too old to be doing them? How does a hero retire from the business of saving people?

The Bindings of Fate (Book One of The Child of the Stars Trilogy)
by Michael DeAngelo

Heroes Will Rise. Cities Will Fall.
The realm of Tellest is filled with bloodlust, greed and violence. Long has the world been thrust into turmoil, driven by the insatiable urge of man's conquest, and whatever rewards can be earned from the end of a blade.
But so, too, are the lands a place of courage, valor and sacrifice. Brave men and women across the world will stand up to the tyranny of the power-hungry kings, or be swept away by it.
Kaos Kreegan is a man haunted by memories of the past. To survive in the harsh world that evolves around him, he needs to rely on his wits and his friends to bring evil to justice, and avenge the wrongs that have been done to him. Along the way, he will discover that Tellest carries many surprises - and so does he

The Kinshield Legacy
K.C. May

A mysterious stone tablet with five magical gems has sat abandoned in a cave for two hundred years. The kingdom is in ruins, with only warrant knights to keep the peace. But then, the gems in the tablet, one by one, disappear.

Warrant knight Gavin Kinshield is a man of many secrets. He's the one deciphering the runes in the tablet. Unless he can find a suitable replacement, he'll be Thendylath's next king. All he really wants is the letter written by his ancestor Ronor Kinshield, the last man to see King Arek alive... a letter he must earn by tracking down a common thief.

But when Gavin saves a woman's life, what should have been a simple task draws him face-to-face with his nightmarish past... and the truth of King Arek's demise.

The Young Magician (The Legacy Trilogy)
by Michael Foster

Every known age has not ended well, to say the least. Entire continents have been decimated time and time again at the hands of the demon hordes, forcing civilisation to start over in every instance, all culture and art and history destroyed. Now, in the last days before the gates of hell fall open again, it seems as if all efforts to avert disaster have failed, but for one small sliver of hope. A boy is found whose potential is unequalled, a boy who could hold the secret to the demons' realm, a boy who could be the very salvation of man. But not even the Order's greatest champions could guess the true secrets hidden away deep inside of this boy, secrets that could ultimately destroy them all. Commended in the Austalian Literary Awards, The Young Magician begins a remarkable tale.

Brother, Betrayed
by Danielle Raver
(my book)

"One brother will betray the others with such treachery that it will change the destiny of Miscia forever."
The three princes hear this prophecy, and they will discover how far it will drive them to explore love, loyalty, and their own souls.

The princes are bound by loyalty to each other and their kingdom. When conflict comes to their land, their ascension into power is darkened by betrayal.

Oman, eldest and Anteria's promised king, leads his brothers on their journey through Arnith.

Fasime, driven by passion, seeks a life of romance and adventure.

Syah, born the ailing youngest brother of these two outgoing princes, endeavours to overcome his bleak destiny through pursuit of knowledge and magic... a quest that may reveal unknown power within his own soul.

A tale woven with deception, war, sacrifice, and magic, BROTHER, BETRAYED takes readers to a troubled kingdom surrounded by barbarians, magical races, and forbidden boundaries.

The Dream War: Book One The Royal Seal
by Nick Alex

In the early ages, the world of Oniro was plagued by a frightening evil. Grotesque creatures roamed the land, wyverns filled the skies, and demonic, misshapen men plotted destruction and control. The strongest armies in existence stood no chance. In its current state, Oniro was lost.

Shadows: Book of Aleth, Part One
by Michael Duncan

A stolen text... When the Book of Aleth is stolen, Aaron, captain of the Royal Guard, is ordered by Emperor Therion to reclaim the ancient tome. The mission thrusts Aaron into a world he's never known--a world of elves and dwarves, races long thought extinct; a world where everything he has known and believed is a lie.

A secret past... Forced to challenge his long-held beliefs, Aaron and his companions, two soldiers of the Royal Guard and two men of the Dwarvish kingdom of Brekken-Dahl, set out on a quest to recover the Book. Aaron resolves to discover the truth, and rescue the empire he is sworn to protect.

Bound
by Lee Taylor

Ursine Edwards was a normal, well-adjusted teenager prior to summer vacation. Now, he has unintentionally married a demon, fallen into line with a wolf-pack, and is being hunted by witches as well as the government, who are all in turn trying to use Ursine for their own devices.

Soul Seeker: A Novel of Lasniniar
by Jacquelyn Smith

What if, in a world where every elf's destiny is an open book, you were the only one whose fate was unknown? Iarion's quest for meaning has spanned millennia. Now ancient, dark powers are rising, and he may be the only one who can stop them. Joined by the unlikeliest of companions, treachery looms from within and without. How far would you go in your search for answers? Purchase of this 130,000 word novel includes an excerpt of the prequel, Light Chasers. (Forthcoming.)

Spy Glass (Glass Trilogy)
by Maria V Snyder

An undercover mission leads to danger, adventure and an impossible choice. After siphoning her own blood magic in the showdown at Hubal, Opal Cowan has lost her powers. She can no longer create glass magic. More, she's immune to the effects of magic. Opal is now an outsider looking in, spying through the glass on those with the powers she once had, powers that make a difference in the world. Until spying through the glass becomes her new power. Suddenly, the beautiful pieces she makes flash in the presence of magic. And then she discovers that someone has stolen some of her blood - and that finding it might let her regain her powers. Or know it could be they are lost forever.

Return of the Dragon Riders: Book Two of the Dragon Stone Saga
by Kristian Alva

The evil emperor Vosper gathers his troops in the east, poised to conquer the entire continent. His target is the rebel city of Parthos, a constant thorn in his side, and the last sanctuary of the Dragon Riders. Besieged from all sides, the remaining Dragon Riders come out of hiding. Forced to fight for their lives, they leave the safety of the desert, traveling across the land to gather intelligence and shore up forgotten alliances. At the center of it all is Elias Dorgumir, the key to an ancient prophesy, and Vosper will do anything to get his hands on him. Is it too late for the Dragon Riders to save Elias and stop Vosper from destroying the only refuge they have left?

Upcoming Dothan Event: Book Signing at Red House Books

2011-12-01T21:26:00.001-06:00

Event Details

Time:

10am – 5pm on Saturday,December 10^th

Location:

Red House Book

2013 South Oates St

Dothan, AL (334) 792 - 1472

Local author Danielle Raver will besigning copies of her fantasy novel Brother Betrayed at Red HouseBooks on Saturday. Danielle is a former Troy graduate who now teacheselementary school in Ozark. She has been writing fantasy novels sincechildhood, and in January of this year signed with Fantasy IslandBook Publishing, an up and coming publishing company based inIndiana. Brother Betrayed is a high action fantasy with Shakespeareanand Greek tragedy themes. Since its release in April, BrotherBetrayed has become a best seller on Amazon.


Danielle Raver with Store Manager Teressa Nyman

For more information search for Danielle Raver, Author onFacebook.

Book Signing at Fort Rucker

2011-11-22T19:28:00.001-06:00

Today I had a book signing on Fort Rucker Base next to Enterprise, Alabama. While driving onto the base I felt a strong sense of pride, for the entire base and everyone on it was devoted to the protection of our country. It felt like entering another world where normal human selfishness and rudeness were forgotten.

I enjoyed my signing at the Post Exchange on base. Something I learned was that every, and I do mean every, man or woman in uniform removed their hat as they entered the building. It was amazing to watch the coordination and discipline.

As the day neared it's end there was one thing I was disappointed about. Of all the books I signed and sold, none had been to a man or woman in uniform. As I was leaving and already packed up an army soldier approached me to buy my book.

What I inscribed in his book I meant with all my heart:

"Thank you for your service"

To the men and women that give their time to serve our country, I am truly grateful. <3

Excerpt from Flight Moon

2011-11-19T16:39:00.001-06:00

Excerpt from my current work in progress, Flight Moon.

“Itcould be several moons before you can fly.”

Thedragon gave him a mischievous grin. “Let's test that theory.”

FlightMoon sprang forth with such swiftness that Gakulisan didn't have timeto stop her. She rushed towards the cliff's edge, bounding forward onfour legs like a panther. With a powerful leap she thrust herself offthe cliff.

Fora moment she thought she would fall. The wind gusted painfullyagainst her wings. Pulsing them violently she shook off herdystrophy. The force of her wings pushed her above the level of thecliff.

Gakulisanrelaxed, watching her rise higher above him with a great effort. Sherose past the point where fear of falling distracts from thesensation of sustained flight. She was able to slow her wings andsoar, drifting on air currents. Her gaze lifted to the horizon.

Forthe first time in half a season she wondered where she would go.Should she return to Gorusk and seek out Shirr? That would probablybe the last thing she ever did.

Shecould continue to hide. She wondered if Shirr was still searching forher.

Witha flap of her wings she rose higher, hoping the open wind would stripaway her thoughts. Gliding high above the land, again she looked atthe edge of land in her possible sight. But it wasn't towards Shirrthat her gaze was turned. Something tugged at her from where she hadcome, from where she had fallen, but didn't fall. From where...

Afaint blue light flashed far in the distance. Flight Moon squinted todiscern its source, but the light became more intense, seemed to becoming closer. What is that?But the dragon didn't have any more time to think as the light rushedtowards her. She tried to back away, in an attempt to dodge it, buther limbs wouldn't obey her.

Witha shock of pain and light the energy hit her. Shewas blinded by blue-hot lightning. No, there was darkness in it. Inthe center... a form. A face.

FlightMoon felt a rush of wind from beneath her. Disoriented, a shock orawareness made her open her eyes and realize that she was falling.She was almost to the ground, but she couldn't move. No, she wasn'tfalling. The gusting wind wasn't caused by her fall, it was anunnatural force keeping gravity from claiming her form. Thewizard. She turned to see him onthe cliff, level with her, with both hands raised to the sky,controlling the wind that was keeping her from pummeling into theground.

Sheforced her wings to move and drifted more than flew back to thecliff.

“Under...attack...” Flight Moon forced out as she landed with a crash.

Gakulisancollapsed to one knee, but managed to turn towards the north and scanthe skies.

“Idon't see anything.” He looked back to the dragon, hearing herlabored breathing. “What happened?”

“Thelight... attacked me.”

“Light?”the wizard asked. He didn't continue, seeing her eyelids close. Hestarted to approach her, but withdrew his hand when the hairs on hisharm rose and the fabric of his robe clung together.

First Book Signing of Brother, Betrayed

2011-11-11T09:56:00.006-06:00

Final book reading of the first book signing at Troy University.

Noon book reading part 1. These passages were chosen by my fans.
Noon book reading part 2.

First book reading from Brother, Betrayed.

Table set up ready for the first book reading at 10:00 a.m.

Troy University News: Book Signing

2011-11-06T15:39:00.001-06:00

http://www.troy.edu/news/archives/2011/november/11012011_raver.html

Nov 1st, 2011

TROY -- Author Danielle Raver will host a release party for her new book, "Brother, Betrayed," at the Troy University Barnes & Noble Café on Friday, Nov. 11, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The event will include readings by the author and book signings. Readings of "Brother, Betrayed" will be at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. The party also includes an online celebration happening at www.danielleraver.com. Giveaways from Barnes & Noble will be offered during the event as well.

Raver is a TROY graduate with a bachelor's degree in education and a master's degree from the University of West Alabama in school counseling. She is now a writer and senior editor at Fantasy Island Book Publishing.

It has always been her dream to publish her writing. The book, along with the book signing party is an opportunity to bring her dream back home.

Raver grew up in the Black Hills of South Dakota. When she was a girl, she and her older brother used to create stories, competing to see who could write the most. Eventually that game evolved into fantasy writing, and "Brother, Betrayed" was the result.

A tale woven with deception, war, sacrifice, and magic, "Brother, Betrayed" takes readers to a troubled kingdom surrounded by barbarians, magical races and forbidden boundaries.

11/11/11

2011-11-01T19:20:00.001-05:00

The year was 1999. Everyone was worried about Y2K. Everyone was planning the party of the millennium. They one day wanted to be able to answer the question: "What did you do when the year turned 2000?" with something worth remembering and sharing.

Not me. The young high school age Danielle was thinking... in 12 years it will be 2011. Something that hasn't happened in 1000 years will be happening again. I began planning for the date 11/11/11.

As my author biography alludes, I do always make a wish when I see the clock on 11:11. I know that in numerology 11/11 is significant. Some sources claim that it is a combination of numbers that means insight and inspiration. 11 has just always been my lucky number.

It wasn't until the beginning of this year that I decided what I wanted to do on 11/11/11. With the editing almost finished with my novel, I thought I might could finish it by November and hold a book release party on that special day. That would be something worth remembering, special enough to tell my children and grandchildren about, someday.

Then in March of this year I met J. D. Hall at Fantasy Island Book Publishing. Just weeks before I had received this fortune at the Chinese restaurant I frequent:

The fortune proved true. Fantasy Island Book Publishing has helped to make my dream a reality. 11/11/11 is fast approaching, and I plan to celebrate to the best of my ability. Join us.

Character Highlight: Denire, the Rogue Knight

2011-10-23T20:41:00.001-05:00

Fans of Danielle Raver, Author's Facebook Page were asked "Who sounds like he/she would be your favorite character?"

Vote for yourself at
http://www.facebook.com/questions/215482941801755/?qa_ref=pt

To celebrate Denire's lead, the following is a character highlight on Denire.

My inspiration for Denire actually came from a picture I saw in a knight with a cloak in a medieval magazine (which I cannot find) but here are some pictures that were similar:

(not my art)

The reader first meets Denire when he ambushes the three brothers on their journey through Miscia. Here is an excerpt from the scene:

Thethree brothers drew back their reins. The horses neighed, startledand agitated. A rider on a black horse suddenly appeared in theirpath. The rider pulled the reins of his shifting horse as he gazed atthem from beneath a helmet that shadowed his eyes.

“Youngtravelers, a word,” he said.

Thebrothers were uneasy, but stayed their hands, held over their swords.Their shock left them and they examined the rider. He was lightlyarmored in chain, a blue tunic and cape draped over his sturdyshoulders and down the sides of his steed. Intricately tooledleather, they noticed, held asword at his waist. The same leather decorated the girdle of hishorse, now pumping its head and snorting at them. They moved theirhorses back a few steps, close to each other.

“Heis a soldier of Arnith,” Fasime whispered.

“Howdid he find us?” Oman asked in a speculative tone.

“Weshould order him back,” Fasime stated, glaring at the rider butwaiting.

“No,then he would know who we are,” Syah warned.

Therider’s horse shifted again but he held him back. “I need tospeak with you,” the soldier said in a tactful, compelling voice.

“Whyhave you tried to ambush us?” Oman demanded.

“Youshould not be here,” the stranger answered. “I am a knight ofArnith. You three need to come with me.”

(this of course is the wrong time period but I looked at this picture a lot while writing Denire - I liked the dark moodiness of it)

Excerpt from Best Selling Fantasy Novel: Brother, Betrayed

2011-10-15T15:25:00.001-05:00

From Chapter Forty Four of Brother, Betrayed"A Field and a Cabin"

Fasimeturned for his mount, but he saw Eltha had already untied him and wasleading the mighty black warhorse quickly to them. He mounted andtook the reins before turning towards Torgan. All of the villagerssilenced at the sight of him. Agetha held her wounded son with tearsin her eyes.

“Quickly!”Torgan shouted. “Gather what horses we have and follow him!”

Fasimesheathed his sword and shouldered his bow. He didn’t take themoment to glance to the villagers, the mother and the wounded boy,knowing what their eyes would tell him.

Bringher back.

Fasimeflicked Lightning’s reins and cried out to him, starting himgalloping out of the market and towards the northern woods. Thesounds of the villagers were quickly out of earshot. They were intothe field before Fasime realized what he was doing. He was one managainst at least a dozen raiders. The feelings of duty towards thevillage and family that had harbored him strengthened his resolve andhe withdrew the bow from his shoulder. They can’t out rideLightning.

Hewas already to the threshold of the forest. He pressed his heals intothe stallion’s sides and leaned forward. He had always held cautionwith the beast, not allowing it to ride at its fastest speed, notknowing, upon that brink, what he would unleash. But now he strovetowards it, seeing that upon entering the forest there was littlesnow upon the ground and the marauders’ trail was indefinite.

Thesteed responded with a supernatural understanding. It rushed withzeal in the direction its rider commanded it. Fasime gripped thegirdle tightly, feeling the jolting of the ride strangely smooth thefaster they galloped, as if Lightning glided towards their foes,becoming discernible in the distance between the trees. No root norstone nor limb hampered him.

PerilouslyFasime straightened, reached for an arrow and knocked his bow. Soon.They will be within range soon.

Theywere deeper into the woods and Fasime was almost close enough. Howmany arrows will it take until they turn and fight? We shall see.Fasime raised the bow, unsure of his aim upon his shaking ride.He saw the trailing end of their riders clearly ahead. He closed oneeye and drew the string, locking his legs against the stallion andtargeted the rear rider. He released the string and the arrow flewahead of him. Within a moment the enemy rider fell off his horse. Hewas close enough to see the other riders turn in their saddles andspot him. They didn’t stop and turn. They quickened their pace.

Thatwon’t help you.

Copyright 2011 by Danielle Raver
KVF52WD5UUGM

War, Warfare, and Warriors - Fiction War Novels

2011-10-03T21:13:00.004-05:00

"War is not the answer, but if there's only one thing that'll make it better, then call me a warrior..."

- from Admiral Tibbett's "War is Not the Answer"

War. A definer of cultures and nations. Embedded in the psyches of the inhabitants of every "civilized" country. The embodiment of humanity's greatest evils, and yet the source of our highest ideals.

Courage ~ Patriotism ~ Honor

War creates heroes, but also has been the inspiration behind many great novels.

Whether it is a war against the ultimate evil such as the war against Sauron in the Lord of the Rings by J. R. R. Tolkien...

"The Shadow of Sauron" by Ted Nasmith link

Or the sparring of factions such as the houses in The Song of Ice and Fire series by George R. R. Martin...

From The Art of The Song of Ice and Fire by Michael Komarck link

Most Popular Fiction War Novels:

Locked On by Tom Clancy

Though hard-core fans of Tom Clancy had mixed feelings about this novel, many reviews highlight the strong plot of this loved Locked On. A tale of modern military, terrorism, and political espionage.

War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy

Though written over a century and a half ago, War and Peace is still one of the best-selling fictional war novels.

A recent review from Amazon:

Ever since I was a teen (I'm 51) I tried reading War and Peace. The furthest I ever got was something like Page 80. Six summers ago, I thought, what the heck, give it another shot. After Page 100 or so, the book picked up steam, and I was absolutely awed as I've seldom been by all the great books I've read in my life. That's what I want to share with potential readers of this great book. Stick with it. It's like a trickling stream that grows and grows from many tributaries into a grand wide raging river. It's got everything in it, as if it were written by God. Tolstoy saw everything. There are so many, many unforgettable scenes in it. My favorite two are the costume party at the country estate (pure magic!) and the great wolf-hunting scene in which the wolf actually takes on a personality under the all-knowing skill of Tolstoy's great pen.

The Red Badge of Courage by Stephen Crane

A very personal following of a fictional soldier's experiences during the Civil War. Though not action-oriented, The Red Badge of Courage gives insight to the darker side of war.

The Forever War by Joe Handleman

Critical acclaim for The Forever War:

"If there was a Fort Knox for Science Fiction writers, we'd have to lock Joe Haldeman up."

--Stephen King, author of The Shining, The Dead Zone, The Stand
"The Forever War is not just a great Science Fiction novel, it's a great Vietnam war novel - and a great war novel, without qualification- that is also Science Fiction. A classic to grace either genre."

--Iain M. Banks, author of Use of Weapons, The Player of Games, Matter
"FOREVER WAR is brilliant--one of the most influential war novels of our time. That it happens to be set in the future only broadens and enhances its message."

--Greg Bear, author of Moving Mars, Eon, The Forge of God

New Release in Fantasy, Fiction War Novels

Brother Betrayed by Danielle Raver
(my novel)

Several sequences in Brother, Betrayed were based on the Siege of Antioch, where a small number of soldiers defended against a large army in the First Crusade.

An excerpt from a hand to hand combat scene from Brother, Betrayed:

The large man stepped back, drawing his sword. Syah watched him grasp the hilt with both hands and then stand still. “You strike first,” Malgar said, as usual, “gradually to start.”

Malgar parried. “Good, and again,” he ordered.

Syah turned and swung at him from the other side. The trainer parried again and the prince tried at him from a different angle.

“Very nice, you defend well,” the trainer praised. “You know the moves well. Now we’ll increase the speed.”

Malgar emitted a low, furious battle cry and Syah shuddered.

The wars drive the tension between the brothers as they each try to prove their usefulness to the kingdom. Oman, the eldest, is schooled on war by the king:

“A battle is fluid, my son. We do not plan for a single moment, but a series of possible events.”

“Yes Father,” Oman answered.

For more information about Brother, Betrayed visit the Fantasy Island Book Publishing website

Tags: war, fiction war novels, warfare, warriors, "The Shadow of Sauron" by Ted Nasmith, Admiral Tibbett's "War is Not the Answer", The Song of Ice and Fire series by George R. R. Martin, Most Popular Fiction War Novels, Locked On by Tom Clancy, War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy, The Red Badge of Courage by Stephen Crane, The Forever War by Joe Handleman, Brother Betrayed by Danielle Raver, the Crusades, the Seige of Antioch, The First Crusade, knights, archers, siege, battles

Troy Alabama Author Book Signing

2011-10-02T09:41:00.000-05:00

I will be signing and reading excerpt from my book Brother, Betrayed on November 11th, from 9am to 4pm at the Barnes and Noble on campus at Troy University, in Troy, AL. Flyers for the event:

Pre-order your signed copy of Brother, Betrayed from www.fantasyislandbookpublishing.com and pay no extra shipping!

Brother, Betrayed by Danielle Raver

$14.99

Follow Your Dreams

2011-10-01T07:14:00.000-05:00

To celebrate the print release of my novel Brother, Betrayed, I am starting a "Fan of the Month" club on my Face Book Fan Page link

Becoming a writer has been a dream of mine since I was old enough to put words on paper. I've learned that hard work and determination, and a true love for your talent, really can make dreams come true.

Share your dreams with us to celebrate "Meeting your Dreams". I hope you join us!

Five Star Reviews of Brother, Betrayed

2011-09-16T20:56:00.003-05:00

5.0 out of 5 stars

Great characters make this book a must-read!, June 28, 2011

Scott Niven -

Amazon Verified Purchase