I'm happy to have author Delta James share some advice for writers beginning their writing journey as well as tell you about her new book "Magic Unleashed". Set in the enchanting and dangerous streets of New Orleans, this novel is a thrilling mix of magic, romance, and suspense. "Magic Unleashed" hooked me from the first page with a fierce heroine, a mysterious dragon shifter, and a city teetering on the edge of chaos. This book tour is sponsored by Bewitching Book Tours and there is a giveaway below as well as my book review of "Magic Unleashed"!
Practical Advice for Beginner Writers
Hi! I’m USA Today Bestselling Author Delta James. I write steamy paranormal and
contemporary romantic suspense. I was asked to give some helpful hints for those who are either at the beginning of their journey as a writer or who are considering it.
1. My top tip is to decide whether or not you want to write as a hobby or as a way to make a
living. Trust me when I tell you there is no right or wrong answer to that question, but the
answer will drive every other decision you make.
2. You only have one chance to make a good first impression. I can’t tell you the number of
times I hear from authors who have not experienced a lot of success “I can’t afford to do
xyz…” And often times it is followed up with, “When I make some money on my books,
I’ll go back…” It really doesn’t work that way. If you don’t do everything you can
(professional editor, proofreader, and cover) to make your first book the very best you can
make it, you will find it difficult, if not impossible to get readers to take a second chance
on you.
3. There is no free ride in becoming a published author. There are a number of different
ways but it is either going to cost you money upfront (and no I don’t mean vanity
publishers that you pay to publish your work) or via a royalty agreement.
4. It isn’t as simple as writing a book and getting published. You have to format, load, and market your manuscript (or pay someone to do that for you) on the various retail sites.
5. Consider KU—yes you have to be exclusive to Amazon and you don’t get paid as much
for one read-through as you do for the sale of one book. The two things to consider
before rejecting KU—readers are far more likely to take a chance on a new author in KU
and you do get paid for every page read. You will make up in pages read the difference in
what you are paid. For example, my royalties are pretty much 50/50 KU pages read vs. e-
books purchased.
6. If you choose to write for a living—treat your writing like a job.
a. Write each and every day
b. Educate yourself regarding genres, tropes, cover styles, etc.
c. Look at what you spend vs. what you make
d. Learn the art of pivoting—if something isn’t working, acknowledge that and
make a change. To me, it makes no sense to keep throwing money at something if
it isn’t working
7. Write to market! I know, you want to write what you want to write—that’s all well and
good for the hobbyist, but if you want to make a living, you have to write what it is that
people want to read.
8. Pick a lane! This goes hand in hand with writing to market. It’s going to take time, skill
, and a certain number of books to establish yourself with readers. If you’re jumping all
over the place, people won’t know what to expect from you.
9. When writing in an anthology, make sure it's in line with what you plan to write. For
example, if you write historical romances, writing in an anthology for dark mafia isn’t
going to help you. An anthology is a way for you to pique a reader’s interest. You want to
lead them to your backlist.
10. Treat your readers with the same respect and friendliness that you would like to be
treated.
Thank you, Delta for these tips, and congratulations on your new release "Magic Unleashed". We look forward to reading more!
My Review of "Magic Unleashed"
Set against the atmospheric backdrop of New Orleans, Magic Unleashed introduces Phoenix Duvall, a fairy enforcer trained from childhood to protect her city from supernatural threats. She’s a strong, confident heroine who’s waiting to come into her full power—something that will only happen when she bonds with her fated mate. Enter Griff Broussard, a tough, brooding dragon shifter detective investigating a series of gruesome, inexplicable deaths.
As Phoenix and Griff cross paths, it becomes clear that their destinies are intertwined. Their reluctant partnership soon transforms into a fiery connection, but it’s not without complications. Not only do they face a rising demonic cult threatening to upend the balance between worlds, but Griff becomes possessed by the very demon they’re hunting. Now, Phoenix must choose between her duty as a fairy enforcer and her growing love for Griff, with both the fate of New Orleans and her heart hanging in the balance.
What I Loved:
I’m not usually a fan of series, but Magic Unleashed might have just converted me! Delta James has crafted a richly layered world filled with intriguing characters and high stakes that never let up. Phoenix is a strong, likable protagonist—her mastery over fire and sharp wit make her a force to be reckoned with, but it’s her emotional depth and vulnerability that really drew me in. Griff, on the other hand, is the perfect foil: a brooding, enigmatic dragon shifter with secrets of his own, and the chemistry between them sizzles off the page.
The pacing is fantastic, with plenty of twists and turns to keep the story unpredictable. The plot weaves together elements of mystery, romance, and action seamlessly, and the setting of New Orleans adds an extra layer of magic and danger. There’s something about the city's haunted history and vibrant energy that serves as the perfect backdrop for the story’s paranormal elements.
Character Chemistry:
The relationship between Phoenix and Griff is the heart of this book. While their romance is intense and steamy, it never feels rushed or forced. Their partnership builds slowly as they learn to trust each other, and the tension between them is palpable. Delta James does a great job of balancing their personal stakes with the larger, world-ending conflict. I especially appreciated how Phoenix’s journey was not just about finding her fated mate, but also about discovering the extent of her own powers and capabilities.
What Could Have Been Better:
While I thoroughly enjoyed the book, there were a few moments where the world-building felt a little rushed. New Orleans is such a rich, textured setting, and I would have loved to see more details about the supernatural community there. Additionally, the resolution to Griff’s possession felt a bit too quick after all the build-up, but these are minor quibbles in an otherwise stellar read.
Final Thoughts:
Magic Unleashed is a gripping start to The Grimm Files series, and I can’t wait to see where Delta James takes Phoenix and Griff next. The stakes are high, the romance is scorching, and the twists will leave you breathless. Whether you’re a fan of paranormal romance, urban fantasy, or just love a good supernatural thriller, this book delivers on all fronts.
If you’re looking for a steamy, action-packed read to add to your fall reading list, especially during the Haunted Halloween Spooktacular, Magic Unleashed is the perfect choice. With a unique blend of magic, mystery, and romance, it’ll leave you eager for the next installment in the series.
Rating: ★★★★½ (4.5/5) 🌟
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