Over at Jamieson Wolf's site, he's got a post about a video special through Night Wolf Design -http://jamiesonwolf.blogspot.com/2008/11/night-wolf-design-holiday-sale.html
Not a bad deal, either!
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Friday, November 28, 2008
Fans Make it all Worthwhile
Wanted to make mention of a special fan who came to see me today!
I met Emily and her mother earlier this year at a library appearance in Lumberton. Today I was in Southern Pines, and they drove all the way up to see me and get another book for Emily. I was so touched! I've had a couple other fans go to great lengths to come see me - Stephanie traveling almost two hours across Ohio; Britanny driving from Myrtle Beach to Charleston; Linda traveling into Canton, OH - it just blows my mind!
So thank you, Emily - you made my day!!!
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Happy Thanksgiving!
I am thankful for all those who have supported me the past few years! Your letters and emails and attendances at book events keep me going in ways you cannot imagine. This journey has been incredible and sometimes I hardly believe this is really my life now. I have you to thank for the success I have achieved so far, and know it is only the beginning of what I can accomplish.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Holidays
Don't let the holidays crush your muse!
Keep writing and creating. Don't let the excitement of Christmas and family take you entirely away from your work.
At the same time, use the opportunity of holiday parties and get-togethers to network as well.
Enjoy the time with family, but don't get so lax on your writing that you can't get the ball rolling again come January!
Monday, November 24, 2008
Author Kathleen Y'Barbo
This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing
Beloved Captive Barbour Publishing, Inc (November 1, 2008)
by Kathleen Y’Barbo
Beloved Captive Barbour Publishing, Inc (November 1, 2008)
by Kathleen Y’Barbo
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
There’s never a dull moment in the Y’Barbo household! From hockey and cheer mom to publicist to bestselling author, Kathleen Y’Barbo somehow manages to do it all - and well. While wearing her publicist’s hat, Kathleen has secured interviews with radio, television, and print media for clients at NavPress, Hatchette, Integrity, Barbour Publishing, and Broadman & Holman, to name a few. She also brings her own unique blend of Southern charm and witty prose to the more than 350,000 award-winning novels and novellas currently in print. Her novels have been nominated for American Christian Fiction Writers Book of the Year in 2002, 2003, 2004, and 2006; and 2007 will see the release of her 25th book.
There’s never a dull moment in the Y’Barbo household! From hockey and cheer mom to publicist to bestselling author, Kathleen Y’Barbo somehow manages to do it all - and well. While wearing her publicist’s hat, Kathleen has secured interviews with radio, television, and print media for clients at NavPress, Hatchette, Integrity, Barbour Publishing, and Broadman & Holman, to name a few. She also brings her own unique blend of Southern charm and witty prose to the more than 350,000 award-winning novels and novellas currently in print. Her novels have been nominated for American Christian Fiction Writers Book of the Year in 2002, 2003, 2004, and 2006; and 2007 will see the release of her 25th book.
Kathleen is a tenth-generation Texan and a mother of three grown sons and a teenage daughter. She is a graduate of Texas A&M University. Kathleen is a former treasurer for the American Christian Fiction Writers, and is a member of the Author’s Guild, Inspirational Writers Alive, Words for the Journey Christian Writers Guild, and the Fellowship of Christian Authors. In addition, she is a sought-after speaker, and her kids think she’s a pretty cool mom, too…most of the time, anyway.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
In this sequel to Beloved Castaway, Emilie Gayarre is learning to accept her mixed race heritage while finding fulfillment in teaching children of the key. There is no denying the attraction between Emilie and the handsome young naval commander, Caleb Spencer, who is shadowed by his own flock of secrets. But if her heritage is found out, even greater things than his career are at risk. Enjoy this historical romance full of risk and redemption.
In this sequel to Beloved Castaway, Emilie Gayarre is learning to accept her mixed race heritage while finding fulfillment in teaching children of the key. There is no denying the attraction between Emilie and the handsome young naval commander, Caleb Spencer, who is shadowed by his own flock of secrets. But if her heritage is found out, even greater things than his career are at risk. Enjoy this historical romance full of risk and redemption.
If you would like to read the first chapter of Beloved Captive, go HERE.
The book link is: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1602602301
The book link is: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1602602301
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Trans Siberian Orchestra!
All work and no play makes Diane crazy!
So tonight we are venturing off to see Trans Siberian Orchestra in concert.
This will be our third year and we hope they never stop touring. My husband and I have been to over 100 concerts, and absolutely NOTHING compares to the show TSO puts on for its fans!
It's also perfect for any age, from little kids to grandma.
So check out their website to see if they are coming to a town near you!
Friday, November 21, 2008
Twilight is all the rage...
As any teenager could tell you, Twilight the movie comes out today.
This series really took off. I remember meeting an editor at Little Brown Publishers at Book Expo a few years ago, and he said Twilight was their first foray into YA and they probably would not pursue any other YA books. That statement seems so ironic now! Proof that most publishers don't have a clue what people want to read.
Funny how teens are so entranced by the main vampire character - they are so drawn to the moody, brooding and secretive type. In real life, that's the last person you want to be with though! Moody, brooding & secretive translates to low self-esteem, withdrawn and carrying a lot of baggage. This person is one heck of a project! The mood swings would be emotionally exhausting and it would be so difficult to reach them or ever coax genuine feelings or thoughts from their lips.
Too much work! I want someone who's got their act together.
This series really took off. I remember meeting an editor at Little Brown Publishers at Book Expo a few years ago, and he said Twilight was their first foray into YA and they probably would not pursue any other YA books. That statement seems so ironic now! Proof that most publishers don't have a clue what people want to read.
Funny how teens are so entranced by the main vampire character - they are so drawn to the moody, brooding and secretive type. In real life, that's the last person you want to be with though! Moody, brooding & secretive translates to low self-esteem, withdrawn and carrying a lot of baggage. This person is one heck of a project! The mood swings would be emotionally exhausting and it would be so difficult to reach them or ever coax genuine feelings or thoughts from their lips.
Too much work! I want someone who's got their act together.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Great Newsletters!
Some great newsletters out there:
The Publicity Hound
http://www.publicityhound.com/
Book Marketing Newsletters from Dan Poynter
http://parapublishing.com/sites/para/resources/newsletter.cfm
Writer What Inspires You!
http://www.donnamcdine.com/
The Literary Lynnch Pen
http://www.lynntincher.com/
The Publicity Hound
http://www.publicityhound.com/
Book Marketing Newsletters from Dan Poynter
http://parapublishing.com/sites/para/resources/newsletter.cfm
Writer What Inspires You!
http://www.donnamcdine.com/
The Literary Lynnch Pen
http://www.lynntincher.com/
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Authors Stephen Baldwin & Mark Tabb
ABOUT THE AUTHORS:
STEPHEN BALDWIN - actor, family man, born-again Christian - makes his home in upstate New York with his wife and two young daughters.
STEPHEN BALDWIN - actor, family man, born-again Christian - makes his home in upstate New York with his wife and two young daughters.
Equally adept at drama and comedy, Baldwin has appeared in over 60 films and been featured on such top-rated television shows as Fear Factor and Celebrity Mole. He has his own production company that is developing projects for television and the big screen. These days, however, his role as director, co-producer and host of Livin' It - a cutting-edge skate video is bringing out his white hot passion for evangelism.
Writer and communicator Mark Tabb calls himself an “internationally unknown author.” Although his books have been published around the world, he is best known for his collaborative works. His 2008 release, “Mistaken Identity”, written with the Van Ryn and Cerak families, hit number one on the New York Times bestseller list for two weeks, and remained on the list for over two months. He and actor Stephen Baldwin teamed up on their 2005 New York Times bestseller, “The Unusual Suspect,” and with their first work of fiction, “The Death and Life of Gabriel Phillips,”
Writer and communicator Mark Tabb calls himself an “internationally unknown author.” Although his books have been published around the world, he is best known for his collaborative works. His 2008 release, “Mistaken Identity”, written with the Van Ryn and Cerak families, hit number one on the New York Times bestseller list for two weeks, and remained on the list for over two months. He and actor Stephen Baldwin teamed up on their 2005 New York Times bestseller, “The Unusual Suspect,” and with their first work of fiction, “The Death and Life of Gabriel Phillips,”
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Even years of experience haven't prepared Officer Andy Myers for this case---When Officer Andy Myers met Loraine Phillips, he had no interest in her son. And he certainly never dreamed he'd respond to a call, finding that same boy in a pool of blood. Even more alarming was the father standing watch over his son's body. Myers had never seen a man respond to death-particularly the death of a child-in such a way. When the father is charged with murder and sentenced to death, he chooses not to fight but embrace it as God's will. Myers becomes consumed with curiosity for these strange beliefs. What follows is the story of the bond these two men share as they come to terms with the tragedy and the difficult choices each one must make.
Even years of experience haven't prepared Officer Andy Myers for this case---When Officer Andy Myers met Loraine Phillips, he had no interest in her son. And he certainly never dreamed he'd respond to a call, finding that same boy in a pool of blood. Even more alarming was the father standing watch over his son's body. Myers had never seen a man respond to death-particularly the death of a child-in such a way. When the father is charged with murder and sentenced to death, he chooses not to fight but embrace it as God's will. Myers becomes consumed with curiosity for these strange beliefs. What follows is the story of the bond these two men share as they come to terms with the tragedy and the difficult choices each one must make.
If you would like to read the first chapter of The Death and Life of Gabriel Phillips, go HERE
*STRONG LANGUAGE*
The book link is: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0446196991
*STRONG LANGUAGE*
The book link is: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0446196991
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Attitude and Expectations
Your attitude is the only thing in life you can control.
You can't control other people, you can't always control situations, but you can control your attitude.
You don't always get what you want, either, but you'll usually get what you expect.
So approach everything in life with an attitude of expectation!
You can't control other people, you can't always control situations, but you can control your attitude.
You don't always get what you want, either, but you'll usually get what you expect.
So approach everything in life with an attitude of expectation!
Monday, November 17, 2008
Author Wanda E. Brunstetter
This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing
White Christmas Pie Barbour Publishing, Inc (September 1, 2008)
by Wanda E. Brunstetter
White Christmas Pie Barbour Publishing, Inc (September 1, 2008)
by Wanda E. Brunstetter
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Fascinated by the Amish people during the years of visiting her husband's family in Pennsylvania, WANDA E. BRUNSTETTER combined her interest with her writing and now has eleven novels about the Amish in print, along with numerous other stories and ministry booklets. She lives in Washington State, where her husband is a pastor, but takes every opportunity to visit Amish settlements throughout the states.
Fascinated by the Amish people during the years of visiting her husband's family in Pennsylvania, WANDA E. BRUNSTETTER combined her interest with her writing and now has eleven novels about the Amish in print, along with numerous other stories and ministry booklets. She lives in Washington State, where her husband is a pastor, but takes every opportunity to visit Amish settlements throughout the states.
This year Wanda also publishedA Sister's Hope
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Step into Amish country for this bittersweet holiday romance. Here you'll meet Will Henderson, a young man tortured by his past, and Karen Yoder, a young woman looking for answers. Add a desperate father searching for his son, and you have all the ingredients for a first-class romance that will inspire and enthrall.
Step into Amish country for this bittersweet holiday romance. Here you'll meet Will Henderson, a young man tortured by his past, and Karen Yoder, a young woman looking for answers. Add a desperate father searching for his son, and you have all the ingredients for a first-class romance that will inspire and enthrall.
Abandoned by his father, Will Henderson was raised by an Amish couple. Now he's about to marry Karen Yoder but is having second thoughts. Can Will overcome the bitterness of his past in order to secure his future? Karen cannot break through the barrier her fiance has suddenly constructed around his heart. When she seeks the advice of an old boyfriend, Will begins to see green. Has he already lost his chance for happiness?
When an accident threatens Will's life, the strength of blood ties is tested. Will a recipe for White Christmas pie contain the ingredients for a happily-ever-after?
If you would like to read the first chapter of White Christmas Pie, go HERE
The book link is: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1597899372
The book link is: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1597899372
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Charisma!
From "Overcoming Obstacles With SPUNK!":
"There is one quality all victorious leaders possess- charisma! It’s the trait that gives certain people a magnetic personality. Those in the presence of such magnetism are drawn to that individual. It is not important for those exhibiting charisma to possess the greatest intelligence or beauty, either. They simply enjoy a special ability to attract others as if charmed by a spell.
There is no real magic trick to charisma, though. Basically, it is the ability to instill enthusiasm in others. Think back to the last time you were in the presence of such a charismatic dynamo. Were you not energized by his enthusiastic nature? Did the bright light of his life not draw you closer? We are all attracted to those who embody the pure essence of a zealous existence. However, charisma does not imply a hyperactive personality or a person of overwhelming intensity. It is simply a contagious spirit of optimism and enthusiasm.
We can begin cultivating a charismatic personality by developing a dream. When we share a goal that taps into the dreams and desires of others, we create a vision worthy of pursuit. By attacking this ambition with unwavering determination and intensity, others will feel inspired to join in the crusade. People will follow a charismatic leader, drawn by his enthusiastic belief in total victory. Think of all the great charitable organizations and worthy causes started by such an individual. What an incredible image of success!"
- from "Overcoming Obstacles With SPUNK! The Keys to Leadership & Goal-Setting" by L. Diane Wolfe
Due out March 17, 2009
Friday, November 14, 2008
Interview With Author Kevin Gerard
Kevin Gerard's third book in the Conner and the Crosswinds series, Surviving an Altered World, is due out this December. I had the opportunity to interview Kevin regarding his series:
This series seemed to spark to life during your childhood – did you share Conor or any of those adventures with your own boys when they were young?
Yes, as a matter of fact, a few of the Crossworlds Champions’ personalities are based on what I’ve learned about my boys during their lives. I guess it’s time to disclose a secret – my boys are all furry cats. I have no human children, so my wife and I consider our animals our kids. The personalities of Eha, Ajur, and Maya all sprang from daily interactions with my furry sons.
I first began day-dreaming about Purugama the flying cougar as a ten year old boy. I can honestly say that I never shared him with anyone until I finally sat down and wrote the first book in the Conor and the Crossworlds series. That was thirty four years after I first imagined him flying down to my bedroom window. Purugama is a wonderfully complex creature, and he takes to Conor as quickly as Conor develops a deep bond with him.
Five seems to be a magic number (my own YA series has five books) – what made you decide to pursue/end on five books?
Actually, I never intended to write more than one book. Something very profound occurred that made me continue the story. A dear friend’s cat, a very dignified and classy fellow, was attacked and killed in his front yard by a roving pack of pit bulls. When I spoke to his mistress, I told her I was going to make Maya immortal. That’s how he became the Lord of the Champions, with a very important role in the story. I wrote Book Two about his journey with Conor to repair the corridors, and the story just swelled from there.
I’ve always had a thing for the number five and the number seven. Both carry great significance in the Conor and the Crossworlds story. There are five books, the Five Keys of the Creators, the Council of Seven, and the seven Champions of the Crossworlds, etc. Comes from my childhood I suppose.
The interesting aspect of the number five rests with the fact that there may be another five books in this series. Like any good author, I left a huge hole at the end of the fifth book. I think readers will be screaming for me to fill it. I’ve already begun toying with the sixth book, and I can definitely see the series mushrooming out to ten books.
Young adult fantasy to political espionage thriller – that’s quite a leap! What prompted you into the thriller genre?
I’ve read every Robert Ludlum book ever produced. He can craft an espionage story like no one else in the world. I came up with an idea for a great story along the same lines, and I’ve been writing it off and on for a year or so. I’m also I’m writing a proposal for a non-fiction book as well.
I have a cool idea for another teen fantasy series also. It popped into my head one day when I was presenting an author talk in Southern California. I’m finally going to write a story about a dragon!
Tell us a little more about the upcoming contest!
The Hunt for the Five Keys of the Creators! Here’s the link to the youtube video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LFHxUIZ2Ks8
In Book Three of the Conor and the Crossworlds story, Conor reveals his association with the Crossworlds to his girlfriend, Janine. He was told never to do that, and everyone pays the price for his mistake. The Circle of Evil descends upon the Crossworlds. They attack everything, including earth, and the only way Conor can reverse the damage is to find the Five Keys of the Creators, the source of all power.
I decided it might be fun to have a real hunt, so I found some old keys at a salvage store and painted them the same colors as the keys in the story. I also had some very cool key boxes made. I’ve hidden one in the South, the Northwest, the Northeast, in San Diego County, and I’m not sure where the fifth one will go. Whoever finds a key box will receive $500, a MacBook, and i-Pod, and signed copies of all five books.
The first clue is in Book Three. After that, beginning January 1, 2009, twelve clues will appear, one per week, on Conor’s website. The cool thing is that even if someone doesn’t live close to one of the hiding places, they can still play along and help someone else find one of the key boxes. It’s going to be fun fun fun!
Here’s Conor’s website – http://www.conorandthecrossworlds.com
I see the first book was offered through AuthorHouse and it is rare to see an author break away & find success taking that route. Is it a path you would recommend to others?
My first impulse is to say no, I wouldn’t recommend going it alone as a self or subsidy published author. It’s a tremendous amount of work to produce a book by yourself, and beyond that, there are endless doors you’ll have to kick in to get your story noticed. None of the favored reviewers will touch it, no chain book store will stock it, many schools will ignore it because it doesn’t have accelerated reader tests attached to it, and on and on and on. If you are going to pursue this path, you have to make absolutely certain your book is top quality in every respect. Self published books have a very tarnished reputation in the literary world, so if you’re going to put one out there it better look and read as good as any traditionally published work.
Along with that is the fact that there is a wide assortment of subsidy publishers out there. Some are legitimate, some are not. Some take more of your royalties, and some allow you to make a good profit from each book you sell. You have to be extremely careful about whom you sign a contract with; that in itself takes a great deal of time and research.
Having said that, if you honestly believe you’ve written the next great story, I mean if you believe it blindly, then self or subsidy publishing might be for you. I initially queried every agent and publisher in the Literary Marketplace text, some multiple times, with no luck at all. I couldn’t allow Conor, the Champions, the creators, and even the Circle of Evil to fade away anonymously. Their story is just too good. I know in my heart that Conor and the Crossworlds will be a huge hit, as long as I put it in the hands of those who will shout loudly enough about it. Books One and Two of this series are in school libraries from California to Vermont, and the librarians all tell me the same story. My books have yet to see the library shelf. There are waiting lists up to six months long to read Conor’s story at these schools. I believed in Conor, blindly, and now I have the proof of my convictions. Conor and the Crossworlds is a big hit with teens.
When can readers expect the final two books?
My father told me that Book Four is the titanic book of the series, and he’s right. Book Four is where the battle for the Crossworlds takes place – Conor and the Champions take on the armies of the Circle of Evil – five hundred thousand strong, and every segment of the battle becomes more treacherous for our hero. They have followed the Lady of the Light into the Shadow World to retrieve the Five Keys of the Creators and save Conor’s girlfriend, Janine. I can’t get specific about what happens, but I guarantee you Book Four is roughly 800 pages of non-stop action. It’s a great book, due out in October 2009.
I added a special twist in Book Five, which is titled The Author of All Worlds. As you may have guessed, I am the author of all worlds, and I actually wrote myself into the story. The Circle of Evil sends their most horrible destroyer, Nemelissi the Assassin, through the corridors to find me in San Diego and slay me. If it succeeds the Crossworlds will be wiped away from existence. I remember the day I was writing the actual scene when Nemelissi came through the final corridor – right in my driveway – to come after me. I was sitting at my desk shaking and looking out the window every few seconds, I felt certain the assassin was coming. It seemed absolutely real to me. Of course, someone else arrives a second before Nemelissi, and the story goes on. It is also a great book, about 600 pages, due out in October 2010.
Your appearances are mostly libraries & schools – do you find that is a better venue for you?
Libraries not so much, but schools are the greatest venue in the world for a young adult series. You have a captive audience, sometimes over five hundred students in one setting, and they are totally into your book talk. I went to Oregon in October and visited seven schools. I saw almost fifteen hundred young readers, sold a ton of books, and recruited a whole pack of new fans. By the end of 2008 I’ll have introduced Conor to ten different states. That’s what you have to do, put out a tireless effort toward spreading the word as widely as you can. Again, if you truly believe in what you’ve written you will find the strength to do this.
You obviously love animals and the photo on your website shows a white & black cat on your shoulder. Tell us more about this passion, as well as a little about your furry feline friend!
Good old Sunny! Can you believe he was twenty years old in that picture? Sadly, he passed away about a year ago, an event that shook my wife and me deeply. Sunny was a magnificent creature, very vocal, very pleased with himself, and just a great guy. I miss him a lot. His brother, Lenny, also passed away about six months ago. Lenny was wonderful also, but in different ways than Sunny. I dedicated Book Three in the Conor and the Crossworlds series to both of them.
We have four other kids at home now, three males and a female. Little Man is our oldest, a black Halloween cat that we rescued from PetSmart. He’s about eleven years old. Toby, our sweet snow cat, is three, and Jesse the Wonder Cat is six months old. I give an update every month about Jesse in my newsletter; you should sign on by sending me an e-mail and asking to be put on the list. Kitty is a neighbor’s cat who loves hanging out at our home. She’s about six years old I think, and weighs over twenty pounds. She keeps her brothers in line!
What does your family think about your journey as an author? Do your boys read the series, too?
Sometimes the boys sit on my lap when I’m writing or editing. I think they want to share in the experience. As I said before, though, some of the Champions in the Conor and the Crossworlds story get their personalities from our cats. I like that; it kind of keeps them alive for us.
When you tell your family you’ve decided to write books, you get a wide variety of responses. Whatever they say, though, you can always spot the look of concern in their eyes. My brother is a musician, and now I’m an author. The odds of success in either field are stacked against you like you can’t believe.
I’ve always been a dreamer. To me, if you’re not dreaming, you’re not living. Sure, I want all the material success that comes with a bestselling series, but at this point it’s all about Conor and the other characters in the story. They are real individuals, and I want the whole world to know about them. I know the story’s good enough. I believe in it with all my heart. I guess we all get to sit back and see if I can pull it off!
Visit his website and click on the contest video for exciting details regarding The Hunt for the Five Keys of the Creators which begins in January http://www.conorandtheCrossworlds.com
This series seemed to spark to life during your childhood – did you share Conor or any of those adventures with your own boys when they were young?
Yes, as a matter of fact, a few of the Crossworlds Champions’ personalities are based on what I’ve learned about my boys during their lives. I guess it’s time to disclose a secret – my boys are all furry cats. I have no human children, so my wife and I consider our animals our kids. The personalities of Eha, Ajur, and Maya all sprang from daily interactions with my furry sons.
I first began day-dreaming about Purugama the flying cougar as a ten year old boy. I can honestly say that I never shared him with anyone until I finally sat down and wrote the first book in the Conor and the Crossworlds series. That was thirty four years after I first imagined him flying down to my bedroom window. Purugama is a wonderfully complex creature, and he takes to Conor as quickly as Conor develops a deep bond with him.
Five seems to be a magic number (my own YA series has five books) – what made you decide to pursue/end on five books?
Actually, I never intended to write more than one book. Something very profound occurred that made me continue the story. A dear friend’s cat, a very dignified and classy fellow, was attacked and killed in his front yard by a roving pack of pit bulls. When I spoke to his mistress, I told her I was going to make Maya immortal. That’s how he became the Lord of the Champions, with a very important role in the story. I wrote Book Two about his journey with Conor to repair the corridors, and the story just swelled from there.
I’ve always had a thing for the number five and the number seven. Both carry great significance in the Conor and the Crossworlds story. There are five books, the Five Keys of the Creators, the Council of Seven, and the seven Champions of the Crossworlds, etc. Comes from my childhood I suppose.
The interesting aspect of the number five rests with the fact that there may be another five books in this series. Like any good author, I left a huge hole at the end of the fifth book. I think readers will be screaming for me to fill it. I’ve already begun toying with the sixth book, and I can definitely see the series mushrooming out to ten books.
Young adult fantasy to political espionage thriller – that’s quite a leap! What prompted you into the thriller genre?
I’ve read every Robert Ludlum book ever produced. He can craft an espionage story like no one else in the world. I came up with an idea for a great story along the same lines, and I’ve been writing it off and on for a year or so. I’m also I’m writing a proposal for a non-fiction book as well.
I have a cool idea for another teen fantasy series also. It popped into my head one day when I was presenting an author talk in Southern California. I’m finally going to write a story about a dragon!
Tell us a little more about the upcoming contest!
The Hunt for the Five Keys of the Creators! Here’s the link to the youtube video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LFHxUIZ2Ks8
In Book Three of the Conor and the Crossworlds story, Conor reveals his association with the Crossworlds to his girlfriend, Janine. He was told never to do that, and everyone pays the price for his mistake. The Circle of Evil descends upon the Crossworlds. They attack everything, including earth, and the only way Conor can reverse the damage is to find the Five Keys of the Creators, the source of all power.
I decided it might be fun to have a real hunt, so I found some old keys at a salvage store and painted them the same colors as the keys in the story. I also had some very cool key boxes made. I’ve hidden one in the South, the Northwest, the Northeast, in San Diego County, and I’m not sure where the fifth one will go. Whoever finds a key box will receive $500, a MacBook, and i-Pod, and signed copies of all five books.
The first clue is in Book Three. After that, beginning January 1, 2009, twelve clues will appear, one per week, on Conor’s website. The cool thing is that even if someone doesn’t live close to one of the hiding places, they can still play along and help someone else find one of the key boxes. It’s going to be fun fun fun!
Here’s Conor’s website – http://www.conorandthecrossworlds.com
I see the first book was offered through AuthorHouse and it is rare to see an author break away & find success taking that route. Is it a path you would recommend to others?
My first impulse is to say no, I wouldn’t recommend going it alone as a self or subsidy published author. It’s a tremendous amount of work to produce a book by yourself, and beyond that, there are endless doors you’ll have to kick in to get your story noticed. None of the favored reviewers will touch it, no chain book store will stock it, many schools will ignore it because it doesn’t have accelerated reader tests attached to it, and on and on and on. If you are going to pursue this path, you have to make absolutely certain your book is top quality in every respect. Self published books have a very tarnished reputation in the literary world, so if you’re going to put one out there it better look and read as good as any traditionally published work.
Along with that is the fact that there is a wide assortment of subsidy publishers out there. Some are legitimate, some are not. Some take more of your royalties, and some allow you to make a good profit from each book you sell. You have to be extremely careful about whom you sign a contract with; that in itself takes a great deal of time and research.
Having said that, if you honestly believe you’ve written the next great story, I mean if you believe it blindly, then self or subsidy publishing might be for you. I initially queried every agent and publisher in the Literary Marketplace text, some multiple times, with no luck at all. I couldn’t allow Conor, the Champions, the creators, and even the Circle of Evil to fade away anonymously. Their story is just too good. I know in my heart that Conor and the Crossworlds will be a huge hit, as long as I put it in the hands of those who will shout loudly enough about it. Books One and Two of this series are in school libraries from California to Vermont, and the librarians all tell me the same story. My books have yet to see the library shelf. There are waiting lists up to six months long to read Conor’s story at these schools. I believed in Conor, blindly, and now I have the proof of my convictions. Conor and the Crossworlds is a big hit with teens.
When can readers expect the final two books?
My father told me that Book Four is the titanic book of the series, and he’s right. Book Four is where the battle for the Crossworlds takes place – Conor and the Champions take on the armies of the Circle of Evil – five hundred thousand strong, and every segment of the battle becomes more treacherous for our hero. They have followed the Lady of the Light into the Shadow World to retrieve the Five Keys of the Creators and save Conor’s girlfriend, Janine. I can’t get specific about what happens, but I guarantee you Book Four is roughly 800 pages of non-stop action. It’s a great book, due out in October 2009.
I added a special twist in Book Five, which is titled The Author of All Worlds. As you may have guessed, I am the author of all worlds, and I actually wrote myself into the story. The Circle of Evil sends their most horrible destroyer, Nemelissi the Assassin, through the corridors to find me in San Diego and slay me. If it succeeds the Crossworlds will be wiped away from existence. I remember the day I was writing the actual scene when Nemelissi came through the final corridor – right in my driveway – to come after me. I was sitting at my desk shaking and looking out the window every few seconds, I felt certain the assassin was coming. It seemed absolutely real to me. Of course, someone else arrives a second before Nemelissi, and the story goes on. It is also a great book, about 600 pages, due out in October 2010.
Your appearances are mostly libraries & schools – do you find that is a better venue for you?
Libraries not so much, but schools are the greatest venue in the world for a young adult series. You have a captive audience, sometimes over five hundred students in one setting, and they are totally into your book talk. I went to Oregon in October and visited seven schools. I saw almost fifteen hundred young readers, sold a ton of books, and recruited a whole pack of new fans. By the end of 2008 I’ll have introduced Conor to ten different states. That’s what you have to do, put out a tireless effort toward spreading the word as widely as you can. Again, if you truly believe in what you’ve written you will find the strength to do this.
You obviously love animals and the photo on your website shows a white & black cat on your shoulder. Tell us more about this passion, as well as a little about your furry feline friend!
Good old Sunny! Can you believe he was twenty years old in that picture? Sadly, he passed away about a year ago, an event that shook my wife and me deeply. Sunny was a magnificent creature, very vocal, very pleased with himself, and just a great guy. I miss him a lot. His brother, Lenny, also passed away about six months ago. Lenny was wonderful also, but in different ways than Sunny. I dedicated Book Three in the Conor and the Crossworlds series to both of them.
We have four other kids at home now, three males and a female. Little Man is our oldest, a black Halloween cat that we rescued from PetSmart. He’s about eleven years old. Toby, our sweet snow cat, is three, and Jesse the Wonder Cat is six months old. I give an update every month about Jesse in my newsletter; you should sign on by sending me an e-mail and asking to be put on the list. Kitty is a neighbor’s cat who loves hanging out at our home. She’s about six years old I think, and weighs over twenty pounds. She keeps her brothers in line!
What does your family think about your journey as an author? Do your boys read the series, too?
Sometimes the boys sit on my lap when I’m writing or editing. I think they want to share in the experience. As I said before, though, some of the Champions in the Conor and the Crossworlds story get their personalities from our cats. I like that; it kind of keeps them alive for us.
When you tell your family you’ve decided to write books, you get a wide variety of responses. Whatever they say, though, you can always spot the look of concern in their eyes. My brother is a musician, and now I’m an author. The odds of success in either field are stacked against you like you can’t believe.
I’ve always been a dreamer. To me, if you’re not dreaming, you’re not living. Sure, I want all the material success that comes with a bestselling series, but at this point it’s all about Conor and the other characters in the story. They are real individuals, and I want the whole world to know about them. I know the story’s good enough. I believe in it with all my heart. I guess we all get to sit back and see if I can pull it off!
Visit his website and click on the contest video for exciting details regarding The Hunt for the Five Keys of the Creators which begins in January http://www.conorandtheCrossworlds.com
Thursday, November 13, 2008
What to Expect When Submitting
Here's what you can expect if you are submitting your manuscript to publishers for consideration:
Expect a wait! Most publishers list their response time in their submission guidelines, which can be up to six months or more. In addition, many of the larger publishers receive hundreds of unsolicited manuscripts each week, and it takes time to go through this slush pile.
Don't expect a response. It's not good business, but many times publishers fail to respond to the rejections. If it's past their normal response time, send an email query. After that, just move on...
Expect disappointment. Again, publishers receive many, many submissions. You WILL receive some rejection letters. Get over it and keep moving.
Don't expect success if you are sending your manuscript one publisher at a time. Send your queries out in batches every single month. Yes, even if they say they want to be the only one reviewing your work! At that rate, you might be dead by the time you receive a positive response.
Expect to hire a lawyer schooled in publishing or entertainment law if you receive a contract. NEVER, EVER sign a contract otherwise!
Don't expect to make a lot of money, especially if you are a first-time author. They will offer you a small percentage of the net profits and keep as many rights as possible. Yes, this is normal!
If you approach submitting your manuscript with the right expectations, you will not be so discouraged with the results! Keep after it until you find success!
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Author J. M. Hochstetler
This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing
One Holy Night Sheaf House (April 1, 2008)
by J. M. Hochstetler
One Holy Night Sheaf House (April 1, 2008)
by J. M. Hochstetler
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
. M. Hochstetler writes stories that always involve some element of the past and of finding home. Born in central Indiana, the daughter of Mennonite farmers, she graduated from Indiana University with a degree in Germanic languages. She was an editor with Abingdon Press for twelve years and has published three novels.
. M. Hochstetler writes stories that always involve some element of the past and of finding home. Born in central Indiana, the daughter of Mennonite farmers, she graduated from Indiana University with a degree in Germanic languages. She was an editor with Abingdon Press for twelve years and has published three novels.
One Holy Night, a contemporary miracle story for all seasons, released in April 2008. Daughter of Liberty (2004) and Native Son (2005), books 1 and 2 of the American Patriot Series are set during the American Revolution. Book 3, Wind of the Spirit, is scheduled for release in March 2009. Hochstetler is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, Christian Authors Network, Middle Tennessee Christian Writers, and Historical Novels Society.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
In 1967 the military build-up in Viet Nam is undergoing a dramatic surge. The resulting explosion of anti-war sentiment tears the country apart, slicing through generations and shattering families. In the quiet bedroom community of Shepherdsville, Minnesota, the war comes home to Frank and Maggie McRae, whose only son, Mike, is serving as a grunt in Viet Nam.
In 1967 the military build-up in Viet Nam is undergoing a dramatic surge. The resulting explosion of anti-war sentiment tears the country apart, slicing through generations and shattering families. In the quiet bedroom community of Shepherdsville, Minnesota, the war comes home to Frank and Maggie McRae, whose only son, Mike, is serving as a grunt in Viet Nam.
Frank despises all Asians because of what he witnessed as a young soldier fighting the Japanese in the south Pacific during WWII. The news that his son has fallen in love with and married Thi Nhuong, a young Vietnamese woman, shocks him. To Frank all Asians are enemies of his country, his family, and himself. A Buddhist, Thi Nhuong represents everything he despises. So he cuts Mike out of his life despite the pleas of his wife, Maggie; daughter, Julie; and Julie s husband, Dan, the pastor of a growing congregation.
Maggie is fighting her own battle--against cancer. Convinced that God is going to heal her, Frank plays the part of a model Christian. Her death on Thanksgiving Day devastates him. Worse, as they arrive home from the gravesite, the family receives news of Mike s death in battle. Embittered, Frank stops attending church and cuts off family and friends.
By the time a very pregnant Thi Nhuong arrives on his doorstep on a stormy Christmas Eve, Frank is so filled with hate that he slams the door in her face, shutting her out in the bitter cold. Finally, overcome by guilt, he tries to go after her, but driving wind and snow force him back inside. With the storm rising to blizzard strength, he confronts the wrenching truth that what hate has driven him to do is as evil as what the Japanese did all those years earlier, and that he needs forgiveness as desperately as they did ...
Frank doesn't know that what God has in mind this night is a miracle. As on that holy night so many years ago, a baby will be born and laid in a manger--a baby who will bring forgiveness, reconciliation, and healing to a family that has suffered heart-wrenching loss.
If you would like to read the first chapter of One Holy Night, go HERE.
The book link is: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/097974850X
The book link is: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/097974850X
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
A Writer's Edge
Every now & then I stumble upon an excellent blog or website.
Today I'd like to bring everyone's attention to A Writer's Edge. Georganna Hancock runs the site and it is set up so well! I highly recommend it as a resource for any writer.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Making Good Impressions
Excerpt from the upcoming book, "Overcoming Obstacles With SPUNK! The Keys to Leadership & Goal-Setting":
"So how does one go about making a good impression? If a first impression is critical and poor one difficult to overcome, how do we ensure a pleasant recollection in the minds of those we encounter? Let me outline a few simple rules you should follow:
· Offer a smile. Nothing conveys acceptance or friendliness quite like a genuine smile. It also reduces or eliminates your fear. You cannot smile and feel scared or worried at the same time!
· Maintain eye contact. This conveys respect for the person and belies a good self-image on your part.
· Use the other’s name and often. You will convey courtesy and respect, not to mention remember the person’s name by repeating it several times during the course of conversation.
· Focus on that person. As we discussed earlier, do not dominate the conversation, but rather allow the other person to become the center of attention.
As with all people skills, there are no gimmicks, but there is a secret when it comes to impressions. One surefire way to make a good impression on someone is to let him know he is making one on you! If you follow the basic rules during the encounter, he will regard your behavior as a vote of confidence. That person will conclude that you view him as important, valuable, and respectable. In his mind, he thinks, “Hey, he believes I’m really somebody!” Your consideration will in turn impress that person in a most meaningful manner."
"So how does one go about making a good impression? If a first impression is critical and poor one difficult to overcome, how do we ensure a pleasant recollection in the minds of those we encounter? Let me outline a few simple rules you should follow:
· Offer a smile. Nothing conveys acceptance or friendliness quite like a genuine smile. It also reduces or eliminates your fear. You cannot smile and feel scared or worried at the same time!
· Maintain eye contact. This conveys respect for the person and belies a good self-image on your part.
· Use the other’s name and often. You will convey courtesy and respect, not to mention remember the person’s name by repeating it several times during the course of conversation.
· Focus on that person. As we discussed earlier, do not dominate the conversation, but rather allow the other person to become the center of attention.
As with all people skills, there are no gimmicks, but there is a secret when it comes to impressions. One surefire way to make a good impression on someone is to let him know he is making one on you! If you follow the basic rules during the encounter, he will regard your behavior as a vote of confidence. That person will conclude that you view him as important, valuable, and respectable. In his mind, he thinks, “Hey, he believes I’m really somebody!” Your consideration will in turn impress that person in a most meaningful manner."
From "Overcoming Obstacles With SPUNK!
The Keys to Leadership & Goal-Setting"
by L. Diane Wolfe
Available March 17, 2009
$13.95 USA, Trade paperback, 176 pages
Non-fiction/Self-help
ISBN 978-0-9816210-2-9 / 0-9816210-2-3
$13.95 USA, Trade paperback, 176 pages
Non-fiction/Self-help
ISBN 978-0-9816210-2-9 / 0-9816210-2-3
****************************
And for a great analysis of wholesalers, distributors & fulfillment, visit Walt Shiel's blog and the guest post from Pete Masterson:
Sunday, November 09, 2008
Search Engine Tips
A unique company name/website will mean little or no search engine competition. Do a search prior to setting your name in stone!
When selecting keywords for search engines, you want popular but not competitive words that appeal to emotion and state benefits. Use words and phrases your readers will be using! Do not use the biggest words – be specific and go after your niche. "Mystery" is too general - what is the location for your book, the character's positions, etc.?
Last but not least, do not try to trick search engines – you will only get bounced!
When selecting keywords for search engines, you want popular but not competitive words that appeal to emotion and state benefits. Use words and phrases your readers will be using! Do not use the biggest words – be specific and go after your niche. "Mystery" is too general - what is the location for your book, the character's positions, etc.?
Last but not least, do not try to trick search engines – you will only get bounced!
Friday, November 07, 2008
Who is your target audience?
If you are writing with the goal of publishing your work, you need to know your target audience - specifically!
Many authors fail to take this into consideration when they are writing. They write what impassions THEM, but they never stop to think if there's a large audience out there who also wants to read their work.
Make sure what you are writing is actually SELLING. Go to your local bookstore and ask what genres are selling best. See what's currently on the shelf.
Profile your target audience - what is their age, gender, income level, education level? Will your work appeal to a specific region of the country or world? Where does your target audience like to shop, where do they go for fun, and most important, what sites do they frequent online?
Bottom line, if there is not a NEED for what you are writing, it will never sell.
And if you do not know how to reach your audience, you will not sell books, either.
So do your research!!!
Thursday, November 06, 2008
Axis Avenue
Friend and fellow author, Lynn Tincher, recently led me to the site Axis Avenue:
It's another great place to post author tours and connect with others!
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
Author Megan DiMaria
This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing
Out Of Her Hands Tyndale House Publishers (September 22, 2008)
by Megan DiMaria
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
I was born and raised in New York State and have since lived in Maine, Florida, Pennsylvania, Texas, New Jersey, and now I live in Colorado. My husband and I have three delightful, adult children and an old Jack Russell Terrier named Belle who seems to find her way into my novels. My resume will tell you I graduated from SUNY Plattsburgh with a degree in Communications, and after graduation I worked as a radio and television reporter, freelance writer, editor and marketing professional. I'm a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and am assistant director of Words For The Journey, Rocky Mountain Region. But what's most important to know about me is that I am a follower of Jesus, wife, mother, friend, reader and writer. Life’s a journey, enjoy the adventures!
ABOUT THE BOOK:
In this second novel by Megan DiMaria, Linda Revere is back and continuing to struggle with the turmoil of contemporary life. Linda has been praying for her children's future spouses since they were very small. Confident that her prayers will be answered, Linda is not prepared for the young woman her son brings home. But Linda soon learns that while everything she once controlled is out of her hands, God is still in control. Megan uses her trademark humor while dealing with issues to which her readers will relate.
Out Of Her Hands Tyndale House Publishers (September 22, 2008)
by Megan DiMaria
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
I was born and raised in New York State and have since lived in Maine, Florida, Pennsylvania, Texas, New Jersey, and now I live in Colorado. My husband and I have three delightful, adult children and an old Jack Russell Terrier named Belle who seems to find her way into my novels. My resume will tell you I graduated from SUNY Plattsburgh with a degree in Communications, and after graduation I worked as a radio and television reporter, freelance writer, editor and marketing professional. I'm a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and am assistant director of Words For The Journey, Rocky Mountain Region. But what's most important to know about me is that I am a follower of Jesus, wife, mother, friend, reader and writer. Life’s a journey, enjoy the adventures!
ABOUT THE BOOK:
In this second novel by Megan DiMaria, Linda Revere is back and continuing to struggle with the turmoil of contemporary life. Linda has been praying for her children's future spouses since they were very small. Confident that her prayers will be answered, Linda is not prepared for the young woman her son brings home. But Linda soon learns that while everything she once controlled is out of her hands, God is still in control. Megan uses her trademark humor while dealing with issues to which her readers will relate.
"No sophomore slump for DiMaria! This novel (Out of Her Hands) is as engaging and meaningful as her first, Searching for Spice. Her realistic portrayal of the characters' lives should endear them to readers and help Christians to feel less alone in their daily trials." ~Romantic Times Magazine, 4 ½ stars TOP PICK!
“Life in Linda's world is messy...but filled with love, laughter, struggle and faith. Megan has created a most real heroine for us to love...and I adore her!”~Deena Peterson, reviewer: A Peek at my Bookshelf
“Megan DiMaria crafts a novel so compelling, so real, you forget you're reading fiction.”~Darcie Gudger, reviewer: TitleTrakk
"This is a great read for a quiet afternoon or in those times when you feel your own life spinning out of control and need the reality check of knowing you're not in it alone."~Amazon reviewer
The book link is: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/141431888X
Monday, November 03, 2008
Importance of outlining
I'm working on my next book and I can't imagine starting a book without an outline.
It would be so easy to veer off course and lose sight of the storyline! Plus I would forget so many critical details and plot points without an outline. Character inconsistencies show up in an outline, too. It would just be one jumbled mess!
And I HAD to outline for my series. The Circle of Friends has so many characters that appear in several of the books, I had a master outline detailing the major events in their lives each year, from the first book all the way to the last book. (That was a span of over eight years, too.) It was the only way I could keep all of the details straight and remain consistent from book to book.
Needless to say, I highly recommend that everyone starts with an outline!
It would be so easy to veer off course and lose sight of the storyline! Plus I would forget so many critical details and plot points without an outline. Character inconsistencies show up in an outline, too. It would just be one jumbled mess!
And I HAD to outline for my series. The Circle of Friends has so many characters that appear in several of the books, I had a master outline detailing the major events in their lives each year, from the first book all the way to the last book. (That was a span of over eight years, too.) It was the only way I could keep all of the details straight and remain consistent from book to book.
Needless to say, I highly recommend that everyone starts with an outline!
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