Tour Hosted by
Book Series & Info
Gift of Sight
“Gifted” Trilogy, #1
With a vengeful goddess using people to try and bring Regan to the Underworld, Gram brings in three Guardians to protect her. Given the short version of what is expected of her, loaded with a lot of expectations for her future, Regan knows first-hand that life is too short. She isn't letting anyone make life-altering decisions for her despite finding out that the vengeful goddess has placed a price on her head.
This book will make you laugh, feel connected to the characters, and leave you wanting more.
Warning: Adult language and sexual situation
Despite declaring to those closest to her that she will take her position as Queen, Regan’s first priority is not to rule, but to find her parents. With Jake at her side, she is determined to learn how to use her new powers and hide from her destiny, as well as the Council, a little while longer.
Unfortunately, someone has been watching and reporting every move Regan makes. She is disheartened to find out the Council is already eagerly awaiting her arrival in Ireland and have apparently started to plan her future…one that does not include Jake.
Regan must decide just how much she is willing to sacrifice to protect her people from a vengeful goddess, while also weeding out the traitor among them. In the end, will she have the strength to withstand losing any of them?
Buy Links
Amazon / Goodreads
Book Excerpt
“I rather enjoy Caveman, now move that ass, and stop pussyfooting around.”
“Hey, if I’m supposed to be watching my language, you can’t flaunt it in front of me like that.”
Jake eventually just grabbed her hand and started to pull Regan out the door. “What’s wrong with the word ass?”
Regan decided that being pulled didn’t suit her, so she double-timed her steps in order to walk side by side with Jake. “No, you said the P-word.”
Jake thought about it for a second and finally just started laughing. Regan sighed, “At least we look natural, you laughing at me, me wondering why?”
“Because you can drop the f-bomb, but I can’t say pussyfooting because you flipped it into a dirty word. If I said pussycat, what would that do for you?”
“Will you stop it? It’s the P-word and women don’t like that. Fu, I mean never mind other women, I don’t like it. Don’t use it even if we are standing by a p-willow tree.”
Jake, while still laughing, wrapped her in another big hug. “My mission has been accomplished.”
“What mission would that be you p-word abuser.”
“I got you distracted enough to get you into position. Piper and Maggie will be out soon.”
Regan surveyed the area and then her stomach flopped. “Oh shit. I really hope it’s a friendly cat?”
“I’m sure it will appear to be a friendly pussycat, but don’t let looks deceive you. Damn, why did you just hit me?”
“I’ll give you one guess.”
Gift of Prophecy
“Gifted” Trilogy, #3
Although, part of her has accepted that she may have to make the ultimate sacrifice, it isn't until Regan finds herself in the Otherworld being handed over to Agrona that the reality hits her. Will Jake and her family survive without her?
Buy Links
Amazon / Goodreads
I’m an author in hiding…I still work full time, but don’t ever look over my shoulder to see what’s on my computer screen. Chances are you will find me secretly writing.
Besides family and friends, I love to laugh. It may be at the expense of those I love, but they get me, so I usually don’t offend too much.
Honesty…I can’t help it. I usually say way I feel, but with a little guidance, I’ve learned to be more tactful.
I’ve worked in plenty of environments (trucking company, correction officer and I was in the military to mention a few) so I guess you can say that’s where my mouth and attitude come from. Either way, as long as I get my morning cup of coffee people are safe.
The Trilogy is complete and I also have a new stand-alone book called “Dreamless”. It’s a Paranormal Suspense that’s a bit lighter on the language, but will keep you guessing who the Nightmare really is.
AUTHOR CONTACT LINK:
Website: www.erinmanbeck.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Erin-Manbeck-Author/656345041090235
Twitter: http://twitter.com/erinmanbeck
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7910131.Erin_Manbeck
Amazon / Goodreads
Interview
Hi Erin,
Thank you so much for sitting down with Toot's for an interview. If you don't mind, I have some questions for you about your trilogy, Gifted and your process for our budding authors as well as fans.
So first off, Gifted Questions.......
In your own words, what is the Gifted trilogy about?
I’m so much better at writing the story…terrible at summarizing it. There’s so much I want to say, but if I say too much I give things away and in almost every chapter throughout the trilogy, you will find out something new. See, I’m already drawing you in.
Simply put, it’s a young girl (me in my early 20s, I wish) that always imagined she would grow up into a tough, independent woman, but when she looks back she sees herself a little weaker than she intended. It takes one action, finally breaking up with her boyfriend, to start bringing forth the strength that she knew she had always had. Of course, when things start going well, the avalanche of events that rock her world start to unfold and she’s given no choice but to face them head on. She was born to be a Queen…what could possibly go wrong?
It’s mostly about seeing things, like life, for what they are and despite the intensity and seriousness of a situation…humor is a way to ease the tension. Everyone can control most of the aspects of their life, despite wanting to point the finger at others, and in the end, they can sit down and watch the world pass by or jump on and try to take control for themselves. No one can choose your fate, but you.
How did you come up with the title of the trilogy and can you tell us its significance?
Best question because it’s probably the easiest one for me. With each book, you find out more about Regan and her abilities, or shall I say GIFTS, that have been bestowed on her by the goddess Danu. It made it easy to stay with the theme.
What genre would you say Gifted is and what sets your trilogy apart for fans of the genre?
Paranormal Romance/Fantasy is the genre, but what sets it apart from other books I definitely would say it is the humor and quick wit of the characters. You will absolutely find yourself laughing aloud during this trilogy. Who cannot laugh at a girl who just can’t help but butcher everyday sayings?
What are some of the elements of the world you created?
Magical powers, a guest appearance by a goddess or two, and a couple of mythical creatures will keep you entertained throughout the trilogy.
If you had to pick one thing, what is your favorite thing about the world you’ve created?
I’m a chick, so I love the magic and the strength of the characters. I want to be able to read minds, teleport objects or people, and do other things that I won’t mention in case it ruins something for someone reading the book. The one aspect I really, really love I’ll only hint at…it has something to do with the doors in the Gift of Prophecy. I can’t say what it is; I want it to be a surprise.
What was your favorite scene to write in the Gifted trilogy?
My favorite scene had to be when Regan realized who Jake was and figured out that he had seen her naked a time or two without her knowing. When she demanded for him to get naked and swore that she would get her day of reckoning, I loved it.
What was the hardest scene to write?
Gram’s scene at the end of the 2nd book. Cannot get into detail…will completely give it away.
What's your favorite line or quote from the Gifted trilogy?
Regan: “HOLY DICK ON A STICK!”
Piper: “By the way, it’s shit on a stick, not dick on a stick. You definitely have a one track mind.”
Writing.......
Do you recall how your interest in writing originated and what made you decide to pursue it as a career?
I love to read and found myself changing stories in my head after I finished them. I practically had one played out when I finally made the decision to do it. I remember the moment perfectly. It was January 9th of this year, my sister’s birthday. I was sitting at work, same old thing I’ve been doing for the last 9+ years, and realized my birthday was coming up quickly and it was a big one. I won’t tell you the age, but there is a 0 in it, so it was big. All 0s starting at 20 are. I wanted more from life.
I wanted to challenge myself. I wanted something that I could show my son when he gets older that would say, “Hey, mom didn’t just sit back and take it easy.” I also wanted to prove that all the preaching my parents did as I grew up made sense. “You can do anything you set your mind to.” I turned to two of my co-workers/best friends and said, “I’m going to write a book.” Instead of them laughing at me and thinking I had a special Irish coffee for breakfast, they almost dared me to. From the moment the words came out of my mouth, their support was overwhelming.
I had no idea how it was all going to turn out, but I wasn’t going to give up. I secretly hid the idea from everyone, including my husband, and sent chapter after chapter to my friends at night when everyone was sleeping. As they pressured me for more, I knew I was doing something right because I had kept their interest and they were falling in love with the characters. I had no idea my story would end up as a trilogy, but I couldn’t have been happier. I didn’t let life just pass by…I grabbed the reins and forged ahead. When it was all said and done, I had a trilogy and a very happy, but shocked husband, mother, sister, brother and many others. I also had two very proud friends standing at my side asking what I was planning next.
What inspires you to put the pen to paper or fingers to the keyboard?
The joy I get from a finished product. I write because I enjoy it. I don’t do it because I have to. I write because I have all these ideas running through my head and finally have an outlet to get them all out. I’m not a seasoned author, but we all need to start somewhere.
What are some of the elements in/of your writing process?
For the most part, I just let my fingers hit the keys and type out what I think. I don’t plan it; I let it happen. It’s as if I’m really in the story, not just telling it.
On the other hand, if I think of something while I’m at work or at the store that I want to add and not want to forget, I grab my phone and make notes. It’s easy to forget when I’m working full time and raising a little boy. I swear I never had the amount of energy he has, but my mother will disagree.
Are you a Plotter or a Panster?
OMG, now that I know what it means…I am soooo the Panster. It’s questions like this one that make me thankful I’m the Google Queen. Can’t wait to use that word at work, people are going to take it the wrong way and their minds will go dirty.
Have you released anything under a different pen name, and if so, is there any difference between them?
After 8 years of marriage, I still find myself writing my maiden name sometimes, so that would be a no. I couldn’t handle another name.
What's next for you?
August 18th I released my latest book called “Dreamless”. It’s a YA Paranormal Suspense. My language in the trilogy is a bit on the raw side, that’s the real me, so I have gone a little lighter this time around. I made it a stand-alone, but I already started the prologue for book 2. I’m going to make it into a series called “The Protectors”. I have not set a date for this yet. With my son starting school and life being so busy right now, I’m thinking the beginning of next year.
Is there anything you’d like to add or say to your fans?
If I didn’t have a personal bubble that I keep up all the time (I’m not the touchy feely type), I’d hug you all. Usually I make Jeni hug people for me, so if you want a feisty, 5-2, blonde hug, let me know. All perverts be aware…she’s married and they will both kick your ass if you try anything.
You have been an amazing support and without you, I would have no one to share my stories with. You inspire me to be better and to keep going. LOVE YOU!
Personal questions......
Now I know this is like asking you to choose between your own children, but out of all your amazing characters, who is your favorite and why?
My favorite would be Regan. She is me. All my characters represent real people in my life, so I will choose myself. I’m not looking to hurt my mother’s feelings.
Are there any of your stories or characters that hold a special place in your heart?
Maggie and Piper are really Keri and Jeni. They are my biggest supporters and fans. When you read the trilogy and see the dialogue between them and Regan, I want you all to know… that is what my life is like with the two of them every day. How lucky am I that I’m surrounded by such amazing people? Extremely.
If the trilogy had to have a theme song, what would it be?
“Burn it to the Ground” by Nickleback. If you go to the following links, you will find a playlist for all the books and the book trailer for Gift of Sight.
Gift of Sight
http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLY2R8o3qJD4GrlevuJZqyrcjRaNBP4hFA
Gift of Power
http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLY2R8o3qJD4GnX1RoAgvAp9MMJb006zmP
Gift of Prophecy
http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLY2R8o3qJD4F5y2mUnmRD8YbPrjMNuzgY
Gift of Sight Trailer
http://youtu.be/bb0FDq_sQ5w?list=UUK5nDmiYwU5nfp8FG8v-fLA
Lastly, What 5 things do fans not know about you and 5 they don't know about the trilogy?
About me, where to start…
1. I was an officer in the military and deployed to Iraq in 2005 for a very hot year.
2. I was an All- American soccer player back in the 90s when my body was smoking hot. (My chest might have been a little small, but I had runner legs and abs, so that’s what counts.)
3. I’m not in service anymore, but I’m honored to still work around military personnel every day.
4. I actually own a dog by the name of Jackpot, but he is not nearly as big as the dog in the book.
5. Above all…I’d give up anything and everything for my family.
5 things my readers don’t know about the trilogy are:
1. I was originally going to kill off a ton of characters, but I got too attached to them and Jeni and Keri said, “HELL NO!”
2. I did the 2nd and 3rd original covers myself
3. I changed the covers recently because to really understand the originals you had to read the book. Not a great marketing plan; I needed something that would draw people in.
4. I pulled Gift of Sight, for a short time, off the market because I didn’t have it edited properly, but I fixed that and have had all my books, to include future books, professionally edited. I even jumped the gun, sent requests for reviews using the unedited version, and deserve a slap in the face for that.
5. Just about every character in my books you will find somewhere in my life, and if I have to tell my mother one more time that she isn’t Gram, I might have to take her copy of the trilogy away from her. It’s a good thing I love her so much.
THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU for taking time to answer some questions. Congratulations on the new trilogy and I can't wait for everyone to read it! – Toot’s
Thank you so much for sitting down with Toot's for an interview. If you don't mind, I have some questions for you about your trilogy, Gifted and your process for our budding authors as well as fans.
So first off, Gifted Questions.......
In your own words, what is the Gifted trilogy about?
I’m so much better at writing the story…terrible at summarizing it. There’s so much I want to say, but if I say too much I give things away and in almost every chapter throughout the trilogy, you will find out something new. See, I’m already drawing you in.
Simply put, it’s a young girl (me in my early 20s, I wish) that always imagined she would grow up into a tough, independent woman, but when she looks back she sees herself a little weaker than she intended. It takes one action, finally breaking up with her boyfriend, to start bringing forth the strength that she knew she had always had. Of course, when things start going well, the avalanche of events that rock her world start to unfold and she’s given no choice but to face them head on. She was born to be a Queen…what could possibly go wrong?
It’s mostly about seeing things, like life, for what they are and despite the intensity and seriousness of a situation…humor is a way to ease the tension. Everyone can control most of the aspects of their life, despite wanting to point the finger at others, and in the end, they can sit down and watch the world pass by or jump on and try to take control for themselves. No one can choose your fate, but you.
How did you come up with the title of the trilogy and can you tell us its significance?
Best question because it’s probably the easiest one for me. With each book, you find out more about Regan and her abilities, or shall I say GIFTS, that have been bestowed on her by the goddess Danu. It made it easy to stay with the theme.
What genre would you say Gifted is and what sets your trilogy apart for fans of the genre?
Paranormal Romance/Fantasy is the genre, but what sets it apart from other books I definitely would say it is the humor and quick wit of the characters. You will absolutely find yourself laughing aloud during this trilogy. Who cannot laugh at a girl who just can’t help but butcher everyday sayings?
What are some of the elements of the world you created?
Magical powers, a guest appearance by a goddess or two, and a couple of mythical creatures will keep you entertained throughout the trilogy.
If you had to pick one thing, what is your favorite thing about the world you’ve created?
I’m a chick, so I love the magic and the strength of the characters. I want to be able to read minds, teleport objects or people, and do other things that I won’t mention in case it ruins something for someone reading the book. The one aspect I really, really love I’ll only hint at…it has something to do with the doors in the Gift of Prophecy. I can’t say what it is; I want it to be a surprise.
What was your favorite scene to write in the Gifted trilogy?
My favorite scene had to be when Regan realized who Jake was and figured out that he had seen her naked a time or two without her knowing. When she demanded for him to get naked and swore that she would get her day of reckoning, I loved it.
What was the hardest scene to write?
Gram’s scene at the end of the 2nd book. Cannot get into detail…will completely give it away.
What's your favorite line or quote from the Gifted trilogy?
Regan: “HOLY DICK ON A STICK!”
Piper: “By the way, it’s shit on a stick, not dick on a stick. You definitely have a one track mind.”
Writing.......
Do you recall how your interest in writing originated and what made you decide to pursue it as a career?
I love to read and found myself changing stories in my head after I finished them. I practically had one played out when I finally made the decision to do it. I remember the moment perfectly. It was January 9th of this year, my sister’s birthday. I was sitting at work, same old thing I’ve been doing for the last 9+ years, and realized my birthday was coming up quickly and it was a big one. I won’t tell you the age, but there is a 0 in it, so it was big. All 0s starting at 20 are. I wanted more from life.
I wanted to challenge myself. I wanted something that I could show my son when he gets older that would say, “Hey, mom didn’t just sit back and take it easy.” I also wanted to prove that all the preaching my parents did as I grew up made sense. “You can do anything you set your mind to.” I turned to two of my co-workers/best friends and said, “I’m going to write a book.” Instead of them laughing at me and thinking I had a special Irish coffee for breakfast, they almost dared me to. From the moment the words came out of my mouth, their support was overwhelming.
I had no idea how it was all going to turn out, but I wasn’t going to give up. I secretly hid the idea from everyone, including my husband, and sent chapter after chapter to my friends at night when everyone was sleeping. As they pressured me for more, I knew I was doing something right because I had kept their interest and they were falling in love with the characters. I had no idea my story would end up as a trilogy, but I couldn’t have been happier. I didn’t let life just pass by…I grabbed the reins and forged ahead. When it was all said and done, I had a trilogy and a very happy, but shocked husband, mother, sister, brother and many others. I also had two very proud friends standing at my side asking what I was planning next.
What inspires you to put the pen to paper or fingers to the keyboard?
The joy I get from a finished product. I write because I enjoy it. I don’t do it because I have to. I write because I have all these ideas running through my head and finally have an outlet to get them all out. I’m not a seasoned author, but we all need to start somewhere.
What are some of the elements in/of your writing process?
For the most part, I just let my fingers hit the keys and type out what I think. I don’t plan it; I let it happen. It’s as if I’m really in the story, not just telling it.
On the other hand, if I think of something while I’m at work or at the store that I want to add and not want to forget, I grab my phone and make notes. It’s easy to forget when I’m working full time and raising a little boy. I swear I never had the amount of energy he has, but my mother will disagree.
Are you a Plotter or a Panster?
OMG, now that I know what it means…I am soooo the Panster. It’s questions like this one that make me thankful I’m the Google Queen. Can’t wait to use that word at work, people are going to take it the wrong way and their minds will go dirty.
Have you released anything under a different pen name, and if so, is there any difference between them?
After 8 years of marriage, I still find myself writing my maiden name sometimes, so that would be a no. I couldn’t handle another name.
What's next for you?
August 18th I released my latest book called “Dreamless”. It’s a YA Paranormal Suspense. My language in the trilogy is a bit on the raw side, that’s the real me, so I have gone a little lighter this time around. I made it a stand-alone, but I already started the prologue for book 2. I’m going to make it into a series called “The Protectors”. I have not set a date for this yet. With my son starting school and life being so busy right now, I’m thinking the beginning of next year.
Is there anything you’d like to add or say to your fans?
If I didn’t have a personal bubble that I keep up all the time (I’m not the touchy feely type), I’d hug you all. Usually I make Jeni hug people for me, so if you want a feisty, 5-2, blonde hug, let me know. All perverts be aware…she’s married and they will both kick your ass if you try anything.
You have been an amazing support and without you, I would have no one to share my stories with. You inspire me to be better and to keep going. LOVE YOU!
Personal questions......
Now I know this is like asking you to choose between your own children, but out of all your amazing characters, who is your favorite and why?
My favorite would be Regan. She is me. All my characters represent real people in my life, so I will choose myself. I’m not looking to hurt my mother’s feelings.
Are there any of your stories or characters that hold a special place in your heart?
Maggie and Piper are really Keri and Jeni. They are my biggest supporters and fans. When you read the trilogy and see the dialogue between them and Regan, I want you all to know… that is what my life is like with the two of them every day. How lucky am I that I’m surrounded by such amazing people? Extremely.
If the trilogy had to have a theme song, what would it be?
“Burn it to the Ground” by Nickleback. If you go to the following links, you will find a playlist for all the books and the book trailer for Gift of Sight.
Gift of Sight
http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLY2R8o3qJD4GrlevuJZqyrcjRaNBP4hFA
Gift of Power
http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLY2R8o3qJD4GnX1RoAgvAp9MMJb006zmP
Gift of Prophecy
http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLY2R8o3qJD4F5y2mUnmRD8YbPrjMNuzgY
Gift of Sight Trailer
http://youtu.be/bb0FDq_sQ5w?list=UUK5nDmiYwU5nfp8FG8v-fLA
Lastly, What 5 things do fans not know about you and 5 they don't know about the trilogy?
About me, where to start…
1. I was an officer in the military and deployed to Iraq in 2005 for a very hot year.
2. I was an All- American soccer player back in the 90s when my body was smoking hot. (My chest might have been a little small, but I had runner legs and abs, so that’s what counts.)
3. I’m not in service anymore, but I’m honored to still work around military personnel every day.
4. I actually own a dog by the name of Jackpot, but he is not nearly as big as the dog in the book.
5. Above all…I’d give up anything and everything for my family.
5 things my readers don’t know about the trilogy are:
1. I was originally going to kill off a ton of characters, but I got too attached to them and Jeni and Keri said, “HELL NO!”
2. I did the 2nd and 3rd original covers myself
3. I changed the covers recently because to really understand the originals you had to read the book. Not a great marketing plan; I needed something that would draw people in.
4. I pulled Gift of Sight, for a short time, off the market because I didn’t have it edited properly, but I fixed that and have had all my books, to include future books, professionally edited. I even jumped the gun, sent requests for reviews using the unedited version, and deserve a slap in the face for that.
5. Just about every character in my books you will find somewhere in my life, and if I have to tell my mother one more time that she isn’t Gram, I might have to take her copy of the trilogy away from her. It’s a good thing I love her so much.
THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU for taking time to answer some questions. Congratulations on the new trilogy and I can't wait for everyone to read it! – Toot’s
Author Info
Besides family and friends, I love to laugh. It may be at the expense of those I love, but they get me, so I usually don’t offend too much.
Honesty…I can’t help it. I usually say way I feel, but with a little guidance, I’ve learned to be more tactful.
I’ve worked in plenty of environments (trucking company, correction officer and I was in the military to mention a few) so I guess you can say that’s where my mouth and attitude come from. Either way, as long as I get my morning cup of coffee people are safe.
The Trilogy is complete and I also have a new stand-alone book called “Dreamless”. It’s a Paranormal Suspense that’s a bit lighter on the language, but will keep you guessing who the Nightmare really is.
AUTHOR CONTACT LINK:
Website: www.erinmanbeck.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Erin-Manbeck-Author/656345041090235
Twitter: http://twitter.com/erinmanbeck
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7910131.Erin_Manbeck
~Giveaway~
- GRAND PRIZE: Signed Copy of the entire Trilogy, Signed Copy of my new book Called “Dreamless” and Bookmarks to match
- RUNNERS UP: 3 Runner ups: Signed Copy of the Entire Trilogy
~To Enter~
Please fill out the rafflecopter below
Love the interview! Thanks so much
ReplyDeleteThanks, Carey. I loved giving it. Out of all the interviews I've had to do so far, Toot's has been my favorite.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Carey. Out of all the interviews I've had to do so far, Toot's has been my favorite.
ReplyDeleteInformative interview
ReplyDeleteThank you, bn100. Hope you got a laugh or two. Good Luck in the giveaway.
Delete