One week left - don’t miss it!
Rules for submitting a trailer to the contest:
You must be the author of the book
The book’s release date was 2009-2010
It is available on YouTube (so you can supply the html for posting here)
You have not won another trailer contest where you received compensation
One entry per author.
How to enter:
Leave a link to your trailer on YouTube in the comments section, along with the name of your book, your official author name, and the date of release
Contest open from today until December 31st
I will post a weekly update, including trailers submitted.
Voting will begin January 1 and end January 9.
Who votes? YOU guys do! But only one vote per person and please no voting for yourself!
Prizes:
3rd - The donation of my YA series to the public or high school library of your choice.
2nd - The donation of my series PLUS almost twenty other new book to the public library of your choice.
1st - The donation of my series PLUS a $25.00 Amazon gift card.
Some awesome entries so far, and couple with some massive view counts on YouTube:
1 - Gringa: A Contradictory Girlhood by Melissa Hart (October 2009)
2 - CassaStar by Alex J Cavanaugh (October 2010)
3 - River Passage by p.m.terrell (Fall 2009)
4 - Dead is Just a Rumor by Marlene Perez (August 2010)
5 - Dead Politician by Robin Spano (September 2010)
6 - A Note from an Old Acquaintance by Bill Walker (June 2009)
7 - 24 Hours London' Guide Book: Top Tips from London's Only Hour-by-Hour Guide By Marsha Moore (June 2009)
8 - Fire and Cross by Enid Wilson (December 2010)
9 - Dream Man by Nancy J. Parra (January 2010)
10 - Night Watch by Mary Montague Sikes
11 - Three Daves by Nicki Elson (February 2010)
12 - Freezer Burn by Gayle Carline (July 2009)
13 - Bella by Steve Piacente (August 2010)
14 - In Celebration of Elastic Waistbands by Christee Gabour Atwood (October 2010)
15 - Leaving Home, Going Home, Returning Home by Jason Alster (December 2009)
16 - The Seventh Blessing by Melissa Buell (December 2010)
17 - Santa's Village Gone Wild! by Christopher Dearman (November 2010)
18 - Game Boys by Rochelle H. Ragnarok (November 2010)
Monday, December 27, 2010
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
New Blog, Notes, and Merry Christmas to All!
Since my book series has now come to a close, I decided I no longer wanted to maintain a website for The Circle of Friends. However, since it still gets a lot of visitors every week, I opted to move it here to Blogger and have the domain point to the blog. (Posts will occur 1-4 times a month.) You can view it HERE. I spent the past few weeks setting it up and moving images, so please take a look and let me know what you think! I'm really happy with the new look.
Don’t forget my Book Trailer Contest!
And the Weekend Sillies will post as usual - Christmas style!
Merry Christmas!!!
Go listen to some Trans Siberian Orchestra!
Monday, December 20, 2010
The Prestige of Book Awards
There are thousands of book awards handed out every year and in most countries.
Award winning (or placing) books stand out, although that alone will not sell a book - the author and publisher must still promote the title.
If you or your publisher are interesting in entering a title, here’s a couple that are still accepting entries:
IPPY Awards
Deadlines: $85 per category Oct. 31, 2010 until Jan. 8, 2011, $95 per category Jan. 9 until March, 19, 2011
69 subject categories
The Eric Hoffer Award
Deadline: January 21st of each year
Nomination Fee $45, Many Categories, Individual Press Awards
IPBA Benjamin Franklin Awards
Deadline: December 31, 2010 - for titles published September 1 – December 31, 2010
IBPA member – $90 per title, per category, Non-IBPA member – $190 for first title, which includes one year’s membership in IBPA; $90 per title, per category for second and subsequent entries. 56 Categories
Next Generation Indie Book Awards
Deadline: Books must be received by March 2, 2011
$75 for first category, $50 for second. 60 Categories
eLit Awards
Deadline: January 17, 2011
$80 per entry, 59 different e-Lit categories
For a listing of other book awards, visit Book Spot, Book Reporter, or Google the words “Book Awards.”
Always do your research before entering any contest!
And don't forget the Book Trailer Contest - see sidebar for link to enter!
Award winning (or placing) books stand out, although that alone will not sell a book - the author and publisher must still promote the title.
If you or your publisher are interesting in entering a title, here’s a couple that are still accepting entries:
IPPY Awards
Deadlines: $85 per category Oct. 31, 2010 until Jan. 8, 2011, $95 per category Jan. 9 until March, 19, 2011
69 subject categories
The Eric Hoffer Award
Deadline: January 21st of each year
Nomination Fee $45, Many Categories, Individual Press Awards
Deadline: December 31, 2010 - for titles published September 1 – December 31, 2010
IBPA member – $90 per title, per category, Non-IBPA member – $190 for first title, which includes one year’s membership in IBPA; $90 per title, per category for second and subsequent entries. 56 Categories
Next Generation Indie Book Awards
Deadline: Books must be received by March 2, 2011
$75 for first category, $50 for second. 60 Categories
eLit Awards
Deadline: January 17, 2011
$80 per entry, 59 different e-Lit categories
For a listing of other book awards, visit Book Spot, Book Reporter, or Google the words “Book Awards.”
Always do your research before entering any contest!
And don't forget the Book Trailer Contest - see sidebar for link to enter!
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Book Trailer Contest and Entries So Far
Are you an author with an amazing book trailer?
Does it put other trailers to shame?
Is it the best thing on earth since sliced bread?
For the first time ever, I am hosting a book trailer contest, open to any author with a book trailer. Whether you created it yourself, hired a professional, or your publisher created it, you may enter your trailer.
Rules for submitting a trailer to the contest:
You must be the author of the book
The book’s release date was 2009-2010
It is available on YouTube (so you can supply the html for posting here)
You have not won another trailer contest where you received compensation
One trailer per author
How to enter:
Leave a link to your trailer on YouTube in the comments section, along with the name of your book, your official author name, and the date of release
Contest open from today until December 31st
I will post a weekly update, including trailers submitted.
Voting will begin January 1 and end January 9.
Who votes? YOU guys do! But only one vote per person and please no voting for yourself!
Prizes:
3rd - The donation of my YA series to the public or high school library of your choice.
2nd - The donation of my series PLUS almost twenty other new book to the public library of your choice.
1st - The donation of my series PLUS a $25.00 Amazon gift card.
Entries so far:
1 - Gringa: A Contradictory Girlhood by Melissa Hart (October 2009)
2 - CassaStar by Alex J Cavanaugh (October 2010)
3 - River Passage by p.m.terrell (Fall 2009)
4 - Dead is Just a Rumor by Marlene Perez (August 2010)
5 - Dead Politician by Robin Spano (September 2010)
6 - A Note from an Old Acquaintance by Bill Walker (June 2009)
7 - 24 Hours London' Guide Book: Top Tips from London's Only Hour-by-Hour Guide By Marsha Moore (June 2009)
8 - Fire and Cross by Enid Wilson (December 2010)
9 - Dream Man by Nancy J. Parra (January 2010)
10 - Night Watch by Mary Montague Sikes (April 2010)
11 - Three Daves by Nicki Elson (February 2010)
12 - Freezer Burn by Gayle Carline (July 2009)
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Book Trailer Contest!!!
Are you an author with an amazing book trailer?
Does it put other trailers to shame?
Is it the best thing on earth since sliced bread?
For the first time ever, I am hosting a book trailer contest, open to any author with a book trailer. Whether you created it yourself, hired a professional, or your publisher created it, you may enter your trailer.
Rules for submitting a trailer to the contest:
You must be the author of the book
The book’s release date was 2009-2010
It is available on YouTube (so you can supply the html for posting here)
You have not won another trailer contest where you received compensation
How to enter:
Leave a link to your trailer on YouTube in the comments section, along with the name of your book, your official author name, and the date of release
Contest open from today until December 31st
I will post a weekly update, including trailers submitted.
Voting will begin January 1 and end January 9.
Who votes? YOU guys do! But only one vote per person and please no voting for yourself!
Prizes:
3rd - The donation of my YA series to the public or high school library of your choice.
2nd - The donation of my series PLUS almost twenty other new book to the public library of your choice.
1st - The donation of my series PLUS a $25.00 Amazon gift card.
And if anyone would like to donate a prize to the 1st place grand winner, please let me know!
Okay - show me your best book trailer!
Monday, December 13, 2010
Finding Your Muse
Our muse is an intricate and complex creature. She can fill our heads with the most glorious images. She inspires our fingers to frantically record the scenes unfolding in our minds. Unfortunately, she can also turn elusive, hiding when we need her the most.
How do we find our muse again? We can stare at our computer screens and just hope she will return. We can force the issue and spend hours pounding out meaningless words. But, if she’s not responding, then we must turn to our creativity to bring her out of seclusion.
Here are six tips for enticing a shy muse:
Music - It stirs the soul. Select music that will invigorate the emotions. Revel in the joy and excitement. Feel moved by the sorrow and anger. Focus on the images the sound inspires. Submersion is important, so either headphones or a loud volume is suggested for a complete experience.
Visuals - A picture is worth a thousand words. We tend to be visual creatures. Photo books and the Internet are great resources. Look for inspiring scenes that connect to the story. Perhaps waves crashing on the beach, a busy downtown street, or a camel in the desert. Get lost in a beautiful piece of artwork. These images can take us to new places and reveal the heart of our story.
Reading - Books are a great source of knowledge. A scene in our favorite author’s book might ignite our imagination. A dialogue exchange can send our character’s conversation in a divergent direction. Descriptions can help us envision our own settings. Perhaps it’s the author’s writing style and voice. Even a writing tips article or book can provide fresh ideas.
Alternative location - A change of scenery does wonders for the spirit. We can take a long walk or drive and just let our minds wander. A vacation, even a simple day trip, takes us away from surroundings that might feel stifling. Our soul will feel refreshed upon our return. If we have the opportunity, viewing our story’s location brings clarity and a sense of realism. We must always remember a notepad and pen as well!
Movies - A means of escape. For two hours, we get it all - music, visuals, a storyline, and a new location. Stuck on a love scene? Try a romance. Character development? Drama. Action scene? Thriller or action-adventure. Out of this world location? Science fiction or fantasy. Attacking multiple senses at once, movies can jump-start our emotional involvement and commitment.
Exercise - It does a body (and mind) good! Physical activity requires effort and focus. Our mind empties and grows clear. An idea hidden by all the internal and external ‘noise’ suddenly comes to the surface. If we are tired or feeling lethargic, exercise will invigorate us. At the very least, we can pound out our frustrations on something besides our keyboard!
Next time your muse plays hard to get, try one of these tricks to capture her again. Muse hunting season is now open!
How do we find our muse again? We can stare at our computer screens and just hope she will return. We can force the issue and spend hours pounding out meaningless words. But, if she’s not responding, then we must turn to our creativity to bring her out of seclusion.
Here are six tips for enticing a shy muse:
Music - It stirs the soul. Select music that will invigorate the emotions. Revel in the joy and excitement. Feel moved by the sorrow and anger. Focus on the images the sound inspires. Submersion is important, so either headphones or a loud volume is suggested for a complete experience.
Visuals - A picture is worth a thousand words. We tend to be visual creatures. Photo books and the Internet are great resources. Look for inspiring scenes that connect to the story. Perhaps waves crashing on the beach, a busy downtown street, or a camel in the desert. Get lost in a beautiful piece of artwork. These images can take us to new places and reveal the heart of our story.
Reading - Books are a great source of knowledge. A scene in our favorite author’s book might ignite our imagination. A dialogue exchange can send our character’s conversation in a divergent direction. Descriptions can help us envision our own settings. Perhaps it’s the author’s writing style and voice. Even a writing tips article or book can provide fresh ideas.
Alternative location - A change of scenery does wonders for the spirit. We can take a long walk or drive and just let our minds wander. A vacation, even a simple day trip, takes us away from surroundings that might feel stifling. Our soul will feel refreshed upon our return. If we have the opportunity, viewing our story’s location brings clarity and a sense of realism. We must always remember a notepad and pen as well!
Movies - A means of escape. For two hours, we get it all - music, visuals, a storyline, and a new location. Stuck on a love scene? Try a romance. Character development? Drama. Action scene? Thriller or action-adventure. Out of this world location? Science fiction or fantasy. Attacking multiple senses at once, movies can jump-start our emotional involvement and commitment.
Exercise - It does a body (and mind) good! Physical activity requires effort and focus. Our mind empties and grows clear. An idea hidden by all the internal and external ‘noise’ suddenly comes to the surface. If we are tired or feeling lethargic, exercise will invigorate us. At the very least, we can pound out our frustrations on something besides our keyboard!
Next time your muse plays hard to get, try one of these tricks to capture her again. Muse hunting season is now open!
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Weekend Sillies and TSO Bonus!
And last weekend we got to see Trans Siberian Orchestra for the fifth year in a row! If you've never seen their Christmas production, you are missing out on the greatest concert experience known to man.
Thursday, December 09, 2010
Book Bloggers
Ever wondered about the process? Ever wondered the best way to approach book bloggers? Ever stopped to think these people are human, too?
After seeing this account of what not to do when contacting a reviewer at Feathered Quill Reviews, I asked a couple book bloggers about review books and etiquette.
First, Michelle at the Red Headed Bookchild tells us how she solicits books and provides some great tips for other reviewers:
I started my blog with a lot of previous connections to the publishing world because of my job as bookstore manager. So I was able to request books to review without a lot of the normal channels. I was also sent stuff in advanced due to my strong relationships.
BUT through the months I have discovered other outlets and there have been only a few that I have solicited myself due to extreme interest in the title.
For publishers, I keep it simple and sweet. I introduce myself, briefly mention my interest in title or genre, and readership (followers and other places I post). I thank them for their time and that's it.
For authors, I tend to gush a bit more and explain my love for their books. This has only resulted in one author setting me up with her publicist. I don't ask to review when I contact authors atleast I haven't yet. I come at them as fans and if they want to promote themselves further and send me along, then great!
I like working with both. With my previous connections, Book Blogs.ning and going to BEA, my need to request is...well, not there. I get approached plenty with wonderful books to review and I feel fortunate now that I can pick and choose.
Always be kind, to the point and thank them for their time. Don't tell them your whole life story and don't ask for too much.
Debbie at Debbie’s World of Books has tips for authors and publishers who are seeking reviews from book bloggers:
Sure, I have a few pet peeves when it comes to requests.
1. Address me by name when you send a request (and the correct name!). You would be surprised even with my blog containing my name in the title people still get it wrong.
2. Include a synopsis. It bugs me when all they include is a title and I have to go hunt down the book description to see if I'm interested especially if it's a smaller title and hard to find the synopsis.
3. If they want a book reviewed by a certain date please include that. Often I have my reviews scheduled out months in advance so don't expect me to read a book and have the review up the next week.
4. Research a blog for their review policy. If your book doesn't fall into the genres stated in the review policy then please don't send a review request.
As for dealing with authors or publishers I would have to say I would prefer dealing with the publisher and publicist. This is something new. I used to love dealing with authors until I had some attack me for not liking their books. I try to be constructive in my review if there were parts that bothered me and wasn't trying to be mean. So now I prefer to work with the middle man so to speak.
Thank you, ladies! Both Michelle and Debbie are really nice people and maintain great blog sites, so please take a moment to visit them.
After seeing this account of what not to do when contacting a reviewer at Feathered Quill Reviews, I asked a couple book bloggers about review books and etiquette.
I started my blog with a lot of previous connections to the publishing world because of my job as bookstore manager. So I was able to request books to review without a lot of the normal channels. I was also sent stuff in advanced due to my strong relationships.
BUT through the months I have discovered other outlets and there have been only a few that I have solicited myself due to extreme interest in the title.
For publishers, I keep it simple and sweet. I introduce myself, briefly mention my interest in title or genre, and readership (followers and other places I post). I thank them for their time and that's it.
For authors, I tend to gush a bit more and explain my love for their books. This has only resulted in one author setting me up with her publicist. I don't ask to review when I contact authors atleast I haven't yet. I come at them as fans and if they want to promote themselves further and send me along, then great!
I like working with both. With my previous connections, Book Blogs.ning and going to BEA, my need to request is...well, not there. I get approached plenty with wonderful books to review and I feel fortunate now that I can pick and choose.
Always be kind, to the point and thank them for their time. Don't tell them your whole life story and don't ask for too much.
Sure, I have a few pet peeves when it comes to requests.
1. Address me by name when you send a request (and the correct name!). You would be surprised even with my blog containing my name in the title people still get it wrong.
2. Include a synopsis. It bugs me when all they include is a title and I have to go hunt down the book description to see if I'm interested especially if it's a smaller title and hard to find the synopsis.
3. If they want a book reviewed by a certain date please include that. Often I have my reviews scheduled out months in advance so don't expect me to read a book and have the review up the next week.
4. Research a blog for their review policy. If your book doesn't fall into the genres stated in the review policy then please don't send a review request.
As for dealing with authors or publishers I would have to say I would prefer dealing with the publisher and publicist. This is something new. I used to love dealing with authors until I had some attack me for not liking their books. I try to be constructive in my review if there were parts that bothered me and wasn't trying to be mean. So now I prefer to work with the middle man so to speak.
Thank you, ladies! Both Michelle and Debbie are really nice people and maintain great blog sites, so please take a moment to visit them.
Monday, December 06, 2010
Publishing Law
Publishing law isn’t just for publishers - writers and authors need to understand the law, too.
Can I use a real person in my novel if I change the name?
What rights will I give up when I sign a book contract?
If I quote someone, do I need to obtain permission?
Can I publish a book of recipes I found on the web?
Legal questions arise during all phases of the writing process. Before pouring your heart into that next book, make sure you are within the law. If you are signing ANY book contract, you MUST check with a publishing law lawyer first.
An excellent resource for writers is Attorney at Law, Ivan Hoffman, B.A., J.D. He specializes in everything from entertainment and writing to web design and sports law.
Best of all, Ivan’s site is loaded with hundreds of free articles: writing and publishing; trademarks and domain names; music and songwriting; etc. If you have any legal questions in the area of entertainment, I suggest you visit Ivan’s site first.
Another great site for publishing law is The Publishing Law Center. It also features articles and resources.
So writers beware - get informed or get sued/taken!
Can I use a real person in my novel if I change the name?
What rights will I give up when I sign a book contract?
If I quote someone, do I need to obtain permission?
Can I publish a book of recipes I found on the web?
Legal questions arise during all phases of the writing process. Before pouring your heart into that next book, make sure you are within the law. If you are signing ANY book contract, you MUST check with a publishing law lawyer first.
An excellent resource for writers is Attorney at Law, Ivan Hoffman, B.A., J.D. He specializes in everything from entertainment and writing to web design and sports law.
Best of all, Ivan’s site is loaded with hundreds of free articles: writing and publishing; trademarks and domain names; music and songwriting; etc. If you have any legal questions in the area of entertainment, I suggest you visit Ivan’s site first.
Another great site for publishing law is The Publishing Law Center. It also features articles and resources.
So writers beware - get informed or get sued/taken!
Friday, December 03, 2010
Marketing Tip - Library Love!
Today’s outstanding marketing tip comes from Stephen Tremp Breakthrough Blogs
There’s a new movement starting where bloggers are helping bloggers promote their books through public libraries. This is what you can do to help, and benefit from, in just 5 – 10 minutes a week. Look up two libraries in major cities on the Internet and email them requesting to carry five books.
Here’s the deal:
* 50 weeks a year
* 50 states
* 1 state per week
* 2 libraries per week
This is so easy. Example: go to Google, type in Los Angeles libraries, then selected the first link LOS ANGELES PUBLIC LIBRARY. Bring up the page and look at the side links to request books. Look for the link that makes sense as every site will be different. For this site select ASK A LIBRARIAN then scroll down and selected SUGGEST A PURCHASE. Then copy and paste the pertinent information (see below). In and out in less than three minutes.
Try the same for San Diego. Total time: just over five minutes. Done! Repeat process next week, maybe mix it up a bit and try different blogging buddy authors. Try Florida next. Miami and Orlando. What’s really cool is many metropolitan areas have a central library and this usually pops up first in a search. You can input author and book information into the online request form and they will decide if any locations get a copy. Yes, this is a centralized process.
If I promote your book and others in this manner, and one third of the libraries say yes, that’s 33 copies. If 10 people do this for you (and themselves), that’s 330 copies in the public's eyes in one year. That's a lot of exposure! Of course, you can promote more than two libraries a week if you feel so inspired. I know I will.
Following is an example of how you can save author and book information to a Word.doc, then copy and paste the information to library Web sites:
CassaStar
Author: Alex Cavanaugh
ISBN-13: 9780981621067
Publisher: Dancing Lemur Press
Publish Date: October 2010
Review: “…calls to mind the youthful focus of Robert Heinlein’s early military sf, as well as the excitement of space opera epitomized by the many Star Wars novels. Fast-paced military action and a youthful protagonist make this a good choice for both young adult and adult fans of space wars.” - Library Journal
Delicious and Suspicious
Author: Elizabeth Craig Spann
ISBN-13: 978-0425235539
Publisher: Berkley
Publish Date: July 6, 2010
View reviews at Amazon
Desert Hedge Murders
Author: Patricia Stoltey
ISBN: ISBN-13: 9781594147852
Publisher: Gale Group
Publish Date: September 2009
View reviews at Amazon
Beware the Devil’s Hug
Author: Marvin Wilson
ISBN-13: 978-0984615490
Publisher: All Things That Matter Press
Publish Date: September 1, 2010
View reviews at The Old Silly Blog
Breakthrough: The Adventures of Chase Manhattan
Author: Stephen Tremp
ISBN: 9780595474004
Publisher: iUniverse
Publish Date: December 31, 2008
View reviews at Breakthrough Blogs
Many library sites will have a box asking for reviews for each book, so you might want to take a few moments to go to an author’s Web site and copy a review or a link to Amazon reviews. Feel free to copy and use this info. Again, you can use other author info from week to week.
Finally, feel free to copy and paste everything and post on your blog for others to read and help spread the good word. Remember, it’s not important who sings the song, as long as the song gets sung.
Thank you, Stephen!
Just a quick add - you may discover some of these libraries require your library card number. Which means you can’t request a book if you don’t have a card.
However, you CAN still do something! Request the book at YOUR local library. (You do have a card, don’t you?) If it’s a book you’ve enjoyed or an author you like, get a family member or friend to request it in HIS or HER local library, too. All of this can be done online or you can make a phone call - your choice!
And here’s why publishers and authors LOVE IT when libraries order books - they aren’t returned!! One out of three books ordered by a bookstore is returned. But if a library orders a book, it’s not coming back!
So select a book from the list above or choose another - but contact YOUR local library today!
There’s a new movement starting where bloggers are helping bloggers promote their books through public libraries. This is what you can do to help, and benefit from, in just 5 – 10 minutes a week. Look up two libraries in major cities on the Internet and email them requesting to carry five books.
Here’s the deal:
* 50 weeks a year
* 50 states
* 1 state per week
* 2 libraries per week
This is so easy. Example: go to Google, type in Los Angeles libraries, then selected the first link LOS ANGELES PUBLIC LIBRARY. Bring up the page and look at the side links to request books. Look for the link that makes sense as every site will be different. For this site select ASK A LIBRARIAN then scroll down and selected SUGGEST A PURCHASE. Then copy and paste the pertinent information (see below). In and out in less than three minutes.
Try the same for San Diego. Total time: just over five minutes. Done! Repeat process next week, maybe mix it up a bit and try different blogging buddy authors. Try Florida next. Miami and Orlando. What’s really cool is many metropolitan areas have a central library and this usually pops up first in a search. You can input author and book information into the online request form and they will decide if any locations get a copy. Yes, this is a centralized process.
If I promote your book and others in this manner, and one third of the libraries say yes, that’s 33 copies. If 10 people do this for you (and themselves), that’s 330 copies in the public's eyes in one year. That's a lot of exposure! Of course, you can promote more than two libraries a week if you feel so inspired. I know I will.
Following is an example of how you can save author and book information to a Word.doc, then copy and paste the information to library Web sites:
CassaStar
Author: Alex Cavanaugh
ISBN-13: 9780981621067
Publisher: Dancing Lemur Press
Publish Date: October 2010
Review: “…calls to mind the youthful focus of Robert Heinlein’s early military sf, as well as the excitement of space opera epitomized by the many Star Wars novels. Fast-paced military action and a youthful protagonist make this a good choice for both young adult and adult fans of space wars.” - Library Journal
Delicious and Suspicious
Author: Elizabeth Craig Spann
ISBN-13: 978-0425235539
Publisher: Berkley
Publish Date: July 6, 2010
View reviews at Amazon
Desert Hedge Murders
Author: Patricia Stoltey
ISBN: ISBN-13: 9781594147852
Publisher: Gale Group
Publish Date: September 2009
View reviews at Amazon
Beware the Devil’s Hug
Author: Marvin Wilson
ISBN-13: 978-0984615490
Publisher: All Things That Matter Press
Publish Date: September 1, 2010
View reviews at The Old Silly Blog
Breakthrough: The Adventures of Chase Manhattan
Author: Stephen Tremp
ISBN: 9780595474004
Publisher: iUniverse
Publish Date: December 31, 2008
View reviews at Breakthrough Blogs
Many library sites will have a box asking for reviews for each book, so you might want to take a few moments to go to an author’s Web site and copy a review or a link to Amazon reviews. Feel free to copy and use this info. Again, you can use other author info from week to week.
Finally, feel free to copy and paste everything and post on your blog for others to read and help spread the good word. Remember, it’s not important who sings the song, as long as the song gets sung.
Thank you, Stephen!
Just a quick add - you may discover some of these libraries require your library card number. Which means you can’t request a book if you don’t have a card.
However, you CAN still do something! Request the book at YOUR local library. (You do have a card, don’t you?) If it’s a book you’ve enjoyed or an author you like, get a family member or friend to request it in HIS or HER local library, too. All of this can be done online or you can make a phone call - your choice!
And here’s why publishers and authors LOVE IT when libraries order books - they aren’t returned!! One out of three books ordered by a bookstore is returned. But if a library orders a book, it’s not coming back!
So select a book from the list above or choose another - but contact YOUR local library today!
Wednesday, December 01, 2010
It's a Blogsplash!
Amazon.co.uk or Amazon.com
No Kindle? Download a free app at Amazon for Mac, iPhone, PC, Android and more.
Coming soon in paperback. Keep up with the latest at Talli Roland
About THE HATING GAME:
When man-eater Mattie Johns agrees to star on a dating game show to save her ailing recruitment business, she's confident she'll sail through to the end without letting down the perma-guard she's perfected from years of her love 'em and leave 'em dating strategy. After all, what can go wrong with dating a few losers and hanging out long enough to pick up a juicy £2000,000 prize? Plenty, Mattie discovers, when it's revealed that the contestants are four of her very unhappy exes. Can Mattie confront her past to get the prize money she so desperately needs, or will her exes finally wreak their long-awaited revenge? And what about the ambitious TV producer whose career depends on stopping her from making it to the end?
If you do buy The Hating Game and you like it, a review on Amazon would be greatly appreciated! If you don't have an Amazon account, you can also post reviews on Goodreads. Thank you!
If you are on Amazon and in a clicking sort of mood, it would be fantastic if you could click on a few tags ('Tags Customers Associate with this Product' - located underneath the Product Description). Cheers!
Visit Talli at her blog, too!
Monday, November 29, 2010
Spunk On A Stick's Tips is Back in Business!
After a week hiatus, Spunky is back! Time to unveil the changes.
As you can see, I've done some major housekeeping, too. Now that my focus in life has changed, it’s time for this blog to get with the program.
After eight years in the publishing industry, Spunky the author is taking a break. A really long one. Maybe permanent! I’ve decided my time would be better spent focusing on my skills, strengths, and knowledge.
What’s new, updated, or redesigned:
A new focus on publishing, promoting, and speaking tips. All posts will now focus on these areas. And this includes many new guest bloggers and authors! I have also organized my right sidebar to include links to articles within this blog and other websites. Please feel free to browse through any topics you missed!
You will also see a button above marked ‘Services.’ I am now offering several services (or links to these services) to writers and authors. Two are currently listed with three more to follow. (One of which I’ve offered on my Spunk on a Stick website for the past 18 months.) If you are a writer or author in need of any of these services, please contact me!
All awards and buttons have their own page now.
My new posting schedule will be 3 - 4 times a week.
The Weekend Sillies? That shall remain the same!! I don’t want anyone sending me hate mail or unfriending me because that person did not get his or her weekly LOL Cats fix!
I will also be online more! I have turned over my online writer’s club, The Writer’s Meow, to a new founder and admin, and streamlined some other sites to reduce the pull for my attention.
So browse through the site and let me know what you think!
Wednesday is Talli Rolland’s Blogsplash! Not that everyone in the blogging world doesn’t already know this…
As you can see, I've done some major housekeeping, too. Now that my focus in life has changed, it’s time for this blog to get with the program.
After eight years in the publishing industry, Spunky the author is taking a break. A really long one. Maybe permanent! I’ve decided my time would be better spent focusing on my skills, strengths, and knowledge.
What’s new, updated, or redesigned:
A new focus on publishing, promoting, and speaking tips. All posts will now focus on these areas. And this includes many new guest bloggers and authors! I have also organized my right sidebar to include links to articles within this blog and other websites. Please feel free to browse through any topics you missed!
You will also see a button above marked ‘Services.’ I am now offering several services (or links to these services) to writers and authors. Two are currently listed with three more to follow. (One of which I’ve offered on my Spunk on a Stick website for the past 18 months.) If you are a writer or author in need of any of these services, please contact me!
All awards and buttons have their own page now.
My new posting schedule will be 3 - 4 times a week.
The Weekend Sillies? That shall remain the same!! I don’t want anyone sending me hate mail or unfriending me because that person did not get his or her weekly LOL Cats fix!
I will also be online more! I have turned over my online writer’s club, The Writer’s Meow, to a new founder and admin, and streamlined some other sites to reduce the pull for my attention.
So browse through the site and let me know what you think!
Wednesday is Talli Rolland’s Blogsplash! Not that everyone in the blogging world doesn’t already know this…
Monday, November 22, 2010
Closing Down
My time online has grown limited over the past six months and my focus is changing.
Ironically some of the bloggers I used to follow have also dropped by the wayside for whatever reason.
I'd tried to make some small adjustments here, but not enough. So time for some radical changes.
This blog is closing for one week. During that time I will redesign the sidebars and pages and prepare for the reopening. I will reschedule my posting to focus on some new areas. This should make my site more useful to others and more in tune with who I am now.
Promotions will still be a big part of this site. So will production. And speaking. But for now, Spunky the author is done.
So everyone have a wonderful Thanksgiving. I'll see you on the other side!
Ironically some of the bloggers I used to follow have also dropped by the wayside for whatever reason.
I'd tried to make some small adjustments here, but not enough. So time for some radical changes.
This blog is closing for one week. During that time I will redesign the sidebars and pages and prepare for the reopening. I will reschedule my posting to focus on some new areas. This should make my site more useful to others and more in tune with who I am now.
Promotions will still be a big part of this site. So will production. And speaking. But for now, Spunky the author is done.
So everyone have a wonderful Thanksgiving. I'll see you on the other side!
Friday, November 19, 2010
Developing Contacts to Promote Your Book - Part V
Final installment! I was one of the presenters for The Muse Online Writers Conference, which included a week-long forum workshop, Developing Contacts to Promote Your Book. Each day had a specific topic and the participants really got into building their contact lists.
For the first four installments - Part I, Part II, Part III, and Part IV
The whole point of these exercises is to get your brain working. You want to develop these lists while you are writing if at all possible! And as participants in the forum discovered, I’m a stickler for specifics. Generic answers (like ‘everyone’) don’t fly with me! If you are to effectively promote your book, you need specifics and details!
You can share some of your ideas below or copy & paste and work on your lists on your own time. But sharing a few ideas is fun, because it might help out someone else!
Establishing Other Contacts -
The plan is to make a list of all options and begin networking many months prior to the release of your book.
Reviewers
Make a list of potential book reviewers - top reviewers, magazines, newspapers, online reviewers and sites, book bloggers, etc. Don’t limit yourself to places that just review books, either. Remember to coordinate with your publisher’s efforts.
Media releases
Media release options - paid and free services, news media, AP offices, magazines and websites, businesses, etc.
Fairs, festivals, & shows
List all regional book festivals, specialty fairs & festivals, and trade shows.
Personal contacts
Develop a mailing list of all personal contacts - snail mail and email. Consider all personal and business contacts.
For the first four installments - Part I, Part II, Part III, and Part IV
The whole point of these exercises is to get your brain working. You want to develop these lists while you are writing if at all possible! And as participants in the forum discovered, I’m a stickler for specifics. Generic answers (like ‘everyone’) don’t fly with me! If you are to effectively promote your book, you need specifics and details!
You can share some of your ideas below or copy & paste and work on your lists on your own time. But sharing a few ideas is fun, because it might help out someone else!
Establishing Other Contacts -
The plan is to make a list of all options and begin networking many months prior to the release of your book.
Reviewers
Make a list of potential book reviewers - top reviewers, magazines, newspapers, online reviewers and sites, book bloggers, etc. Don’t limit yourself to places that just review books, either. Remember to coordinate with your publisher’s efforts.
Media releases
Media release options - paid and free services, news media, AP offices, magazines and websites, businesses, etc.
Fairs, festivals, & shows
List all regional book festivals, specialty fairs & festivals, and trade shows.
Personal contacts
Develop a mailing list of all personal contacts - snail mail and email. Consider all personal and business contacts.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Researching with Stephen Tremp
Today I welcome author Stephen Tremp!
Writers love to write. It is the research that some are not prepared to do.
Me, I really don’t struggle very much as I love what I do. I love performing due diligence in my research. Much of the two years I spent writing Breakthrough was devoted to researching the latest and greatest in the realm of theoretical physics. It is this love, the passion, that drives me to pen a story that is as accurate as possible. The physical settings, restaurants, and universities are all real and need to be described accurately as readers may be familiar with these places. So does the detective’s investigation and police procedures. Same with weapons. How many rounds does a Smith & Wesson model 1006 10 mm hold in a magazine (there could be more than one answer). Better get it right. Police officers and sheriff’s deputies are great resources.
Ultimately, when one performs research, they should want to add to an existing body of knowledge (BOK), that is, a set of concepts, terms and activities that make up a particular domain. Of course, no one will ever complete an existing BOK. They can only add something new to it while leaving suggestions for further research that they or someone else can perform.
Problem: Often writers cannot perform research simply because they are unable to. They do not have the proper resources. Solution: research the research of others (and give them credit).
Example: I’m an author who writes action Near Future Sci-Fi action. I have to have at least a basic working knowledge of physics. Problem: Sometimes we just don’t have access to the necessary resources to carry out adequate research. I don’t have a particle accelerator in my garage (which would be most helpful). Solution: I have to research the research of other people. I read a lot of books on physics and some of the greatest scientific minds, dead and alive. And I read peer reviewed articles, which is the subjecting of an author's scholarly work, research, or ideas to the scrutiny of others who are experts in the same field. So I use their research. And I remember to give them credit.
Here’s on exercise: make two lists. One of topics you would like to research and one people who have a deep understanding of such topics. Then, go to YouTube. Example: I type in a subject like CERN, Large Hadron Collider, theoretical physics. Or a person like Alan Guth (theoretical physicist and cosmologist at M.I.T). I also use Google Earth, yearly weather reports, and customer reviews. Honestly, there is so much information available at my fingertips, the biggest struggle I have is sorting through the wealth of information and eliminating data.
As fiction writers, there are a number of areas you should have a basic working knowledge, such as criminology and forensics. A great example of a blogger who performs her due dillegence in research is Clarissa Draper. Example: go to her Web site and in the SEARCH BOX type in Forensics or Poison, then scroll to the top of the blog. There you will find well researched and detailed posts (with sources) regarding guns, autopsies, how a corpses deteriorates under certain conditions, blood stains and patterns, rigormortis and time of death, and other relevant and very interesting topics.
In this day of real time information and people’s fascination with everything CSI, you will need to present your events in a manner that is accurate, insightful, and is also a great place to plant clues for later use in the story. Be sure you use reliable sources. Just because you see something explained on CSI doesn’t mean it’s necessarily accurate. You will need to be, as our hostess Diane claims, be scary organized.
Please join me Friday as I visit Karen Gowan at Coming Down From The Mountain as we wind down the final tour stop of my Virtual Blog Tour 2010! And discuss “Write Another Book, For Pete’s Sake!”.
Stephen Tremp is author of the action thriller Breakthrough . You can visit Stephen at Breakthrough Blogs where Breakthrough is available for purchase and download to all eReaders.
Writers love to write. It is the research that some are not prepared to do.
Ultimately, when one performs research, they should want to add to an existing body of knowledge (BOK), that is, a set of concepts, terms and activities that make up a particular domain. Of course, no one will ever complete an existing BOK. They can only add something new to it while leaving suggestions for further research that they or someone else can perform.
Problem: Often writers cannot perform research simply because they are unable to. They do not have the proper resources. Solution: research the research of others (and give them credit).
Example: I’m an author who writes action Near Future Sci-Fi action. I have to have at least a basic working knowledge of physics. Problem: Sometimes we just don’t have access to the necessary resources to carry out adequate research. I don’t have a particle accelerator in my garage (which would be most helpful). Solution: I have to research the research of other people. I read a lot of books on physics and some of the greatest scientific minds, dead and alive. And I read peer reviewed articles, which is the subjecting of an author's scholarly work, research, or ideas to the scrutiny of others who are experts in the same field. So I use their research. And I remember to give them credit.
Here’s on exercise: make two lists. One of topics you would like to research and one people who have a deep understanding of such topics. Then, go to YouTube. Example: I type in a subject like CERN, Large Hadron Collider, theoretical physics. Or a person like Alan Guth (theoretical physicist and cosmologist at M.I.T). I also use Google Earth, yearly weather reports, and customer reviews. Honestly, there is so much information available at my fingertips, the biggest struggle I have is sorting through the wealth of information and eliminating data.
As fiction writers, there are a number of areas you should have a basic working knowledge, such as criminology and forensics. A great example of a blogger who performs her due dillegence in research is Clarissa Draper. Example: go to her Web site and in the SEARCH BOX type in Forensics or Poison, then scroll to the top of the blog. There you will find well researched and detailed posts (with sources) regarding guns, autopsies, how a corpses deteriorates under certain conditions, blood stains and patterns, rigormortis and time of death, and other relevant and very interesting topics.
In this day of real time information and people’s fascination with everything CSI, you will need to present your events in a manner that is accurate, insightful, and is also a great place to plant clues for later use in the story. Be sure you use reliable sources. Just because you see something explained on CSI doesn’t mean it’s necessarily accurate. You will need to be, as our hostess Diane claims, be scary organized.
Please join me Friday as I visit Karen Gowan at Coming Down From The Mountain as we wind down the final tour stop of my Virtual Blog Tour 2010! And discuss “Write Another Book, For Pete’s Sake!”.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Developing Contacts to Promote Your Book - Part IV
I was one of the presenters for The Muse Online Writers Conference, which included a week-long forum workshop, Developing Contacts to Promote Your Book. Each day had a specific topic and the participants really got into building their contact lists.
The whole point of these exercises is to get your brain working. You want to develop these lists while you are writing if at all possible! And as participants in the forum discovered, I’m a stickler for specifics. Generic answers (like ‘everyone’) don’t fly with me! If you are to effectively promote your book, you need specifics and details!
You can share some of your ideas below or copy & paste and work on your lists on your own time. But sharing a few ideas is fun, because it might help out someone else!
Establishing Physical Contacts
Traditional outlets:
Where is your audience most likely so seek out your book or book’s subject matter?
List all bookstores you can physically reach - chains and independents. Keep in mind specialty book stores as well.
Make a list of libraries. If applicable, include schools and colleges.
Non-traditional outlets:
Time to think beyond the bookstore!
Make a list of other retail outlet possibilities - gift shops, coffee shops, specialty stores, museums, etc. Get creative!
List all events, festivals, and club/organization meetings in your area or that you can reach.
If applicable, consider churches and church bookstores.
Professional possibilities:
Brainstorm businesses and organization that might be interested in your book. What company or group would most benefit from your book?
The whole point of these exercises is to get your brain working. You want to develop these lists while you are writing if at all possible! And as participants in the forum discovered, I’m a stickler for specifics. Generic answers (like ‘everyone’) don’t fly with me! If you are to effectively promote your book, you need specifics and details!
You can share some of your ideas below or copy & paste and work on your lists on your own time. But sharing a few ideas is fun, because it might help out someone else!
Establishing Physical Contacts
Traditional outlets:
Where is your audience most likely so seek out your book or book’s subject matter?
List all bookstores you can physically reach - chains and independents. Keep in mind specialty book stores as well.
Make a list of libraries. If applicable, include schools and colleges.
Non-traditional outlets:
Time to think beyond the bookstore!
Make a list of other retail outlet possibilities - gift shops, coffee shops, specialty stores, museums, etc. Get creative!
List all events, festivals, and club/organization meetings in your area or that you can reach.
If applicable, consider churches and church bookstores.
Professional possibilities:
Brainstorm businesses and organization that might be interested in your book. What company or group would most benefit from your book?
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Just in time for Christmas!
Buy any book and get a second book (same price or lower) free. They will also ship the second book for free to any gift recipient of your choice and are encouraging donations to libraries and organizations. And if you buy two books, you’ll get two free and so forth.
I will gladly match their offer with my own books, too! (And of course, they’ll be autographed.) Buy one at full retail plus $3.00 for shipping and I’ll include a second book free.
There are many needy families at Christmastime. Consider donating the book to an organization as a Christmas gift to some young adult. As a former foster parent, I know many of these kids receive few gifts, especially those in Level 3 group homes or Level 4 institutions. Malls often feature a gift tree with names of needy children attached to the branches. There’s probably a needy family in your church or neighborhood. So many opportunities to give!
Visit Dancing Lemur Press LLC’s site to place an order or contact me directly at wolferock AT earthlink.net.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
What's Your Strength?
We tend to focus on our weaknesses, but what about our strengths?
Most people tend to focus on the negative. They try to improve where they are weak. That's the wrong approach though! We need to focus on our strengths. A rising tide lifts all ships - if we capitalize on what we do best, weaknesses vanish. Now that's not an excuse to slack anywhere and sometimes weaknesses are strengths in disguise. But we have to look at it as growth. If we continue to fine-tune our strengths, growing and developing, those weaknesses will be pulled along for the ride.
One of the exercises I do in several of my seminars involves writing down strengths on one sheet of paper and weaknesses on another. When finished, they look at both sheets - and then shred the weaknesses! Now they have only strengths on which to focus.
What are your strengths? Where do you excel? What skills do you possess? What are your most positive aspects?
Can you name one? Name your greatest strength?
As I've been reorganizing my life, trying to decide what direction to go, I kept coming back to this - what is my greatest strength? And I keep getting the same answer - I'm organized. Not anal, but detailed. I have lists for my lists. I have a detailed day planner and calendar. My office is full but organized. Papers properly filed. I excell at making a plan a executing it. Not always to perfection - I can half-ass a job with the best of them! But I enjoy the detail work, the plotting, the crafting. That is where the melancholy in me excels.
Now your turn - name your greatest strength.
Most people tend to focus on the negative. They try to improve where they are weak. That's the wrong approach though! We need to focus on our strengths. A rising tide lifts all ships - if we capitalize on what we do best, weaknesses vanish. Now that's not an excuse to slack anywhere and sometimes weaknesses are strengths in disguise. But we have to look at it as growth. If we continue to fine-tune our strengths, growing and developing, those weaknesses will be pulled along for the ride.
One of the exercises I do in several of my seminars involves writing down strengths on one sheet of paper and weaknesses on another. When finished, they look at both sheets - and then shred the weaknesses! Now they have only strengths on which to focus.
What are your strengths? Where do you excel? What skills do you possess? What are your most positive aspects?
Can you name one? Name your greatest strength?
As I've been reorganizing my life, trying to decide what direction to go, I kept coming back to this - what is my greatest strength? And I keep getting the same answer - I'm organized. Not anal, but detailed. I have lists for my lists. I have a detailed day planner and calendar. My office is full but organized. Papers properly filed. I excell at making a plan a executing it. Not always to perfection - I can half-ass a job with the best of them! But I enjoy the detail work, the plotting, the crafting. That is where the melancholy in me excels.
Now your turn - name your greatest strength.
Monday, November 08, 2010
Authors Weigh in on What Makes a Great Blog Tour!
I’ve conducted six blog tours over the year and learned a great deal from each one. However, I wanted the opinions of a couple authors who just recently completed blog tours. Marvin Wilson just finished a tour for Beware the Devil’s Hug and Alex J Cavanaugh just finished one for his first book, CassaStar. The boys were good enough to answer some questions and I threw in a few thoughts of my own…
How far in advance do you contact hosts? What goes into that first contact email?
Marvin - I contact hosts at least 3 months in advance of the tour, so that I can have the tour schedule completed by 2 months before it begins. Even 6 months in advance is not too early.
Alex - I was fortunate most of my hosts offered. I contacted bloggers 2-3 months before my tour, including my book’s information and link to the trailer and my own bio, and asked their preference of guest post or interview.
Me - Some blogs book spots up to six months in advance, so the bigger the blog, the sooner you need to contact them. You should also be a follower and leaving comments before asking for a guest spot, too. I contact mine 3-5 months before the tour with a polite email inquiry.
What do you look for in host sites?
Alex - Blogs with many followers are good, but ones with lots of comments are best.
Marvin - Traffic, average number of comments per post, and if the blog's topics are on point with what the book genre is in. Also the quality of the host's posting.
What’s the best ‘length’ for a blog tour?
Me - Ten to twelve stops with no weekends.
Alex - I was told two weeks although mine spanned for almost three. Fortunately I didn’t lose steam near the end.
Marvin - I think 2 weeks. I tried a month once, and people just lost interest - traffic fell off after 2 weeks. Since then I've used the 2 week schedule and it builds nicely without fading at all.
Once you have the topic/interview questions, what’s your turnaround time? What’s the latest a host should receive your post?
Marvin - Well if it's something I am supposed to write and provide, I try to get it to the host at least a week ahead of the post date. If the host is doing something independent of me, then that's up to him or her, of course.
Alex - I tried to complete everything the month before my tour started. I didn’t want to panic my hosts and once the tour began, I knew I wouldn’t have time.
Me - All hosts receive my post/interview just before the tour begins, if not sooner.
What’s your blogging schedule before and during the tour?
Alex - Intense! Before my tour, I was blogging 3-4 hours a day, and during the tour it was closer to 5 hours a day. I checked in several times a day for each stop and left comments, but I also went back to posts that were several days old. I was amazed how many continued to gain comments!
Me - The worst thing you can do prior to or during a tour is shut down for any reason! That’s when you need to be the most active. I’ve had the misfortune of a couple physical events scheduled during a tour, and it’s tough to manage. During a tour, that needs to be your only focus.
Marvin - For at least 2 and up to 4 weeks before the tour I actively promote the upcoming tour on my blog, facebook, twitter, Yahoo groups, all that ... then during the tour I make myself available off and on all day and into the early evening, responding to commenters and visiting the other tour hosts' blogs to encourage them to keep actively involved with the tour and get their readers interested in following it as well.
What do you post on your site during the tour?
Alex - I announced the day’s visit and thanked everyone for visiting the previous stop. I wanted to give my followers more than just a ‘go here’ though, so I included a short post each day. I was participating in NaBloWriMo at the time, so it wasn’t difficult. My hosts had lots of visitors and my own site maintained its normal level of comments.
Marvin - I usually just post an announcement of where the tour is happening that day, with a link, of course, and a brief enticing summary of what's happening to help drive traffic to the host's blog. I also have a link to the (my) blog's "Contest and Prizes" page so people can see how to win prizes during the tour.
Can you share some of the stats from your last tour?
Marvin - The average number of comments per stop was nearly 30, with some still coming in - the tour generated such interest some people are still hearing about it, logging on and checking out the archived posts, leaving comments. But the big stat is the book's Amazon ranking at the beginning of the tour was way down in the 2 millions, and by the end of the tour it had risen to in the top 90,000! I't creeping down again a bit now, but many peeps commented that Hugs is now on their shopping/TBR/Christmas list that I know sales will benefit from the tour for quite some time.
Alex - On host sites, I averaged 35 comments and the greatest was 70 comments. Several hosts told me it was the most comments their site had ever received. My own site enjoyed 60 or more comments a day and I crossed over 400 followers during the tour. I don’t know the exact numbers, but both the print and eBook version of my book went above 10,000 in the sales ranking on Amazon and my book trailer received several hundred new hits.
What’s the secret of a great blog tour?
Alex - I think it’s a combination of things. Selecting a good variety of hosts, with interesting (and sometimes humorous) posts and interviews, is important. Interaction is vital as well. You have to interact with those who comment. Promoting isn’t my thing so it was difficult for me to tell others ‘hey, come check out today’s stop.’ So, I guess it’s also important that your followers like you and think you’re interesting enough to check out your tour!
Me - Making it a win-win for everyone involved. Yes, you’re placing yourself in front of another blogger’s followers (and are counting on them to read and comment) but you have to bring your followers as well so the host benefits from new readers and followers. And if you’re not promoting your tour, creating great guest posts, and pouring your all into the tour, it’ll be a bust.
Marvin - VARIETY and CREATIVITY! Nobody wants to follow a tour where all the stops are the same old same old. Author interview after author interview ..... boooooooring! Make a list of possible formats and ask your hosts to add to the list, get imaginitive. On the Hugs Tour we had a few author interviews, yes, but also interviews with different book characters, book reviews, guest posts by me on several different topics, characters doing interactive scenes (not from the book, but situational 'what if' kinds of things) with each other, one post the host interviewed me and the main character from the book on the paranormal and spiritual, things like that. No two stops should be the same, all stops should be entertaining, unique and informative, and the tour's schedule should follow a theme with all the variables tying together into a harmonious whole.
Thanks guy! Please visit Marvin and Alex’s blogs and tell them thanks for taking time to answer these questions when I'm sure both men are exhuasted from their fantastic tours!
How far in advance do you contact hosts? What goes into that first contact email?
Marvin - I contact hosts at least 3 months in advance of the tour, so that I can have the tour schedule completed by 2 months before it begins. Even 6 months in advance is not too early.
Alex - I was fortunate most of my hosts offered. I contacted bloggers 2-3 months before my tour, including my book’s information and link to the trailer and my own bio, and asked their preference of guest post or interview.
Me - Some blogs book spots up to six months in advance, so the bigger the blog, the sooner you need to contact them. You should also be a follower and leaving comments before asking for a guest spot, too. I contact mine 3-5 months before the tour with a polite email inquiry.
What do you look for in host sites?
Alex - Blogs with many followers are good, but ones with lots of comments are best.
Marvin - Traffic, average number of comments per post, and if the blog's topics are on point with what the book genre is in. Also the quality of the host's posting.
What’s the best ‘length’ for a blog tour?
Me - Ten to twelve stops with no weekends.
Alex - I was told two weeks although mine spanned for almost three. Fortunately I didn’t lose steam near the end.
Marvin - I think 2 weeks. I tried a month once, and people just lost interest - traffic fell off after 2 weeks. Since then I've used the 2 week schedule and it builds nicely without fading at all.
Once you have the topic/interview questions, what’s your turnaround time? What’s the latest a host should receive your post?
Marvin - Well if it's something I am supposed to write and provide, I try to get it to the host at least a week ahead of the post date. If the host is doing something independent of me, then that's up to him or her, of course.
Alex - I tried to complete everything the month before my tour started. I didn’t want to panic my hosts and once the tour began, I knew I wouldn’t have time.
Me - All hosts receive my post/interview just before the tour begins, if not sooner.
What’s your blogging schedule before and during the tour?
Alex - Intense! Before my tour, I was blogging 3-4 hours a day, and during the tour it was closer to 5 hours a day. I checked in several times a day for each stop and left comments, but I also went back to posts that were several days old. I was amazed how many continued to gain comments!
Me - The worst thing you can do prior to or during a tour is shut down for any reason! That’s when you need to be the most active. I’ve had the misfortune of a couple physical events scheduled during a tour, and it’s tough to manage. During a tour, that needs to be your only focus.
Marvin - For at least 2 and up to 4 weeks before the tour I actively promote the upcoming tour on my blog, facebook, twitter, Yahoo groups, all that ... then during the tour I make myself available off and on all day and into the early evening, responding to commenters and visiting the other tour hosts' blogs to encourage them to keep actively involved with the tour and get their readers interested in following it as well.
What do you post on your site during the tour?
Alex - I announced the day’s visit and thanked everyone for visiting the previous stop. I wanted to give my followers more than just a ‘go here’ though, so I included a short post each day. I was participating in NaBloWriMo at the time, so it wasn’t difficult. My hosts had lots of visitors and my own site maintained its normal level of comments.
Marvin - I usually just post an announcement of where the tour is happening that day, with a link, of course, and a brief enticing summary of what's happening to help drive traffic to the host's blog. I also have a link to the (my) blog's "Contest and Prizes" page so people can see how to win prizes during the tour.
Can you share some of the stats from your last tour?
Marvin - The average number of comments per stop was nearly 30, with some still coming in - the tour generated such interest some people are still hearing about it, logging on and checking out the archived posts, leaving comments. But the big stat is the book's Amazon ranking at the beginning of the tour was way down in the 2 millions, and by the end of the tour it had risen to in the top 90,000! I't creeping down again a bit now, but many peeps commented that Hugs is now on their shopping/TBR/Christmas list that I know sales will benefit from the tour for quite some time.
Alex - On host sites, I averaged 35 comments and the greatest was 70 comments. Several hosts told me it was the most comments their site had ever received. My own site enjoyed 60 or more comments a day and I crossed over 400 followers during the tour. I don’t know the exact numbers, but both the print and eBook version of my book went above 10,000 in the sales ranking on Amazon and my book trailer received several hundred new hits.
What’s the secret of a great blog tour?
Alex - I think it’s a combination of things. Selecting a good variety of hosts, with interesting (and sometimes humorous) posts and interviews, is important. Interaction is vital as well. You have to interact with those who comment. Promoting isn’t my thing so it was difficult for me to tell others ‘hey, come check out today’s stop.’ So, I guess it’s also important that your followers like you and think you’re interesting enough to check out your tour!
Me - Making it a win-win for everyone involved. Yes, you’re placing yourself in front of another blogger’s followers (and are counting on them to read and comment) but you have to bring your followers as well so the host benefits from new readers and followers. And if you’re not promoting your tour, creating great guest posts, and pouring your all into the tour, it’ll be a bust.
Marvin - VARIETY and CREATIVITY! Nobody wants to follow a tour where all the stops are the same old same old. Author interview after author interview ..... boooooooring! Make a list of possible formats and ask your hosts to add to the list, get imaginitive. On the Hugs Tour we had a few author interviews, yes, but also interviews with different book characters, book reviews, guest posts by me on several different topics, characters doing interactive scenes (not from the book, but situational 'what if' kinds of things) with each other, one post the host interviewed me and the main character from the book on the paranormal and spiritual, things like that. No two stops should be the same, all stops should be entertaining, unique and informative, and the tour's schedule should follow a theme with all the variables tying together into a harmonious whole.
Thanks guy! Please visit Marvin and Alex’s blogs and tell them thanks for taking time to answer these questions when I'm sure both men are exhuasted from their fantastic tours!
Thursday, November 04, 2010
Sometimes Life Gives You a Break
So when I got home and received a call asking if we could postpone my seminar tonight until next spring when we can tie it in with the Chamber of Commerce, I didn't protest!
It's easy to get involved in projects and work and run so hard that we forget to stop and live now and then.
Today, I'm going to live a little! And get caught up on some blogs - I know I've been slacking.
Anyone else need a break?
Tuesday, November 02, 2010
Developing Contacts to Promote Your Book Part III - Media Contacts
I was one of the presenters for The Muse Online Writers Conference, which included a week-long forum workshop, Developing Contacts to Promote Your Book. Each day had a specific topic and the participants really got into building their contact lists.
The whole point of these exercises is to get your brain working. You want to develop these lists while you are writing if at all possible! And as participants in the forum discovered, I’m a stickler for specifics. Generic answers (like ‘everyone’) don’t fly with me! If you are to effectively promote your book, you need specifics and details!
You can share some of your ideas below or copy & paste and work on your lists on your own time. But sharing a few ideas is fun, because it might help out someone else!
Establishing Media Contacts
Think beyond book sites and don’t focus on the fact that you just released a book. (Outside of your local newspaper, the media does not care!)
Consider target audience, location, and book’s setting:
Make a list of all relevant radio stations, TV stations, and newspapers.
Looks for talk shows, local and regional TV stations, feature editors - media that features your book’s topic or authors.
Look for online media - news sites, newsletters and magazines, and radio.
Consider book’s topic and angle:
What makes it unique?
Is it relevant to current events?
How can you help people?
What about you or your book will make people healthier, wealthier, sexier, save them time, or entertain them?
The whole point of these exercises is to get your brain working. You want to develop these lists while you are writing if at all possible! And as participants in the forum discovered, I’m a stickler for specifics. Generic answers (like ‘everyone’) don’t fly with me! If you are to effectively promote your book, you need specifics and details!
You can share some of your ideas below or copy & paste and work on your lists on your own time. But sharing a few ideas is fun, because it might help out someone else!
Establishing Media Contacts
Think beyond book sites and don’t focus on the fact that you just released a book. (Outside of your local newspaper, the media does not care!)
Consider target audience, location, and book’s setting:
Make a list of all relevant radio stations, TV stations, and newspapers.
Looks for talk shows, local and regional TV stations, feature editors - media that features your book’s topic or authors.
Look for online media - news sites, newsletters and magazines, and radio.
Consider book’s topic and angle:
What makes it unique?
Is it relevant to current events?
How can you help people?
What about you or your book will make people healthier, wealthier, sexier, save them time, or entertain them?
Monday, November 01, 2010
News For EBook Authors!
If you’re an author with an eBook to promote, here’s some interesting findings.
This information comes from Jim Milliot, co-editorial of Publishers Weekly, who compiled the text for reports from the Book Industry Study Group.
“Respondents also indicated that reviews played an important role in spurring them to acquire an e-book, with online reviews having more of an impact than print reviews…
“All online vehicles were not equally effective in reaching e-book consumers, however. Respondents to the first survey fielding reported that Facebook, Twitter, and other social networking sites had little impact in prompting them to purchase e-books… such responses were even more prevalent in the third fielding.
“The minor impact of social networking sites on e-book acquisitions seems to have a clear cause: for the most part, e-book consumers are not using social networking sites.”
Wow! What does everyone think about those findings?
This information comes from Jim Milliot, co-editorial of Publishers Weekly, who compiled the text for reports from the Book Industry Study Group.
“Respondents also indicated that reviews played an important role in spurring them to acquire an e-book, with online reviews having more of an impact than print reviews…
“All online vehicles were not equally effective in reaching e-book consumers, however. Respondents to the first survey fielding reported that Facebook, Twitter, and other social networking sites had little impact in prompting them to purchase e-books… such responses were even more prevalent in the third fielding.
“The minor impact of social networking sites on e-book acquisitions seems to have a clear cause: for the most part, e-book consumers are not using social networking sites.”
Wow! What does everyone think about those findings?
Friday, October 29, 2010
Finding Book Reviewers
The coveted Holy Grail!
If you’re with a traditional publisher, they usually send out the review copies. That doesn’t mean you can’t help locate reviewers, though. And if you’re self-published, this duty falls squarely on your shoulders.
Reviewers are not all the same, though. Some are industry reviewers, also known as pre-pub reviewers. They require an ARC (advance review copy) or a galley 3-6 months before the official street date. They rarely accept self-published books and never accept subsidy books, so these are target reviewers for your publisher to tackle.
Some examples of pre-pub reviewers - Publisher’s Weekly, Foreword Magazine, Kirkus, Library Journal, New York Times, LA Times, ALA Booklist, Bookpage, Horn Books.
Other early reviewers for both publishers and authors to consider include trade magazines, online reviewers, other authors, and book bloggers.
A great resource for locating other reviewers is Book Connector
Do a Google search for websites and book bloggers who review your genre.
If you’re with a traditional publisher, coordinate with their efforts. They may have a set number of review copies to send out.
If you’re self-published, many of these options will be unavailable to you. But you can still contact magazines, online reviewers, and book bloggers. Midwest Book Reviews is a major reviewer who accepts self-published books.
An excellent list of ideas can be found at Marketing Tips for Authors - Seven Simple Steps to Getting Your Book Reviewed by Paula Krapf
Some tips for self-published authors:
Send out books before the publication date if at all possible.
Include a review slip on the inside of the cover flap that lists title, author, ISBN, publisher information, genre, formats, page count, and distributors/wholesalers.
If submitting an eBook, do not include as an attachment when sending emails. Query first for permission to send an attachment.
Many reviewers do not accept self-published books - do your homework.
Budget! How many review copies can you afford to send?
Set up a Google Alert for your name and book title to catch online reviews.
Avoid paying for a review.
Any questions?
If you’re with a traditional publisher, they usually send out the review copies. That doesn’t mean you can’t help locate reviewers, though. And if you’re self-published, this duty falls squarely on your shoulders.
Reviewers are not all the same, though. Some are industry reviewers, also known as pre-pub reviewers. They require an ARC (advance review copy) or a galley 3-6 months before the official street date. They rarely accept self-published books and never accept subsidy books, so these are target reviewers for your publisher to tackle.
Some examples of pre-pub reviewers - Publisher’s Weekly, Foreword Magazine, Kirkus, Library Journal, New York Times, LA Times, ALA Booklist, Bookpage, Horn Books.
Other early reviewers for both publishers and authors to consider include trade magazines, online reviewers, other authors, and book bloggers.
A great resource for locating other reviewers is Book Connector
Do a Google search for websites and book bloggers who review your genre.
If you’re with a traditional publisher, coordinate with their efforts. They may have a set number of review copies to send out.
If you’re self-published, many of these options will be unavailable to you. But you can still contact magazines, online reviewers, and book bloggers. Midwest Book Reviews is a major reviewer who accepts self-published books.
An excellent list of ideas can be found at Marketing Tips for Authors - Seven Simple Steps to Getting Your Book Reviewed by Paula Krapf
Some tips for self-published authors:
Send out books before the publication date if at all possible.
Include a review slip on the inside of the cover flap that lists title, author, ISBN, publisher information, genre, formats, page count, and distributors/wholesalers.
If submitting an eBook, do not include as an attachment when sending emails. Query first for permission to send an attachment.
Many reviewers do not accept self-published books - do your homework.
Budget! How many review copies can you afford to send?
Set up a Google Alert for your name and book title to catch online reviews.
Avoid paying for a review.
Any questions?
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Window to the Soul by Alex J Cavanaugh
Thanks for hosting me today!
Diane asked me to elaborate on an attribute unique to my main character’s race. Cassans are similar to humans in appearance, although their lifespan is several years longer. They also possess a similar intelligence even though they are ahead of us in technology. However, they do possess a unique talent.
Cassans use telepathy.
The idea of telepathy has always fascinated me. (Since I don’t own a cell phone, it would really come in handy!) It’s an incredible concept. What if we possessed the ability to communicate without speaking? What if emotions were sensed or images shared without using words? It would be like a window into the soul.
Imagine the communication issues we’d eliminate if we could clearly show someone what we meant. (Conversely, the trouble we could get into as well!) Telepathy would allow relationships to delve deeper. We’d always have someone who would hear our call, regardless of the distance.
It wouldn’t be a window we’d throw open often, though. We’d choose to shield some exchanges while limiting others. (I’d limit quite a bit - I’m a mean thinker!) Some would block all thoughts from entering or leaving their mind, resenting any attempt to break the mental barriers. They would cut themselves off from others.
Such is the case for Byron. He resists any attempt to pierce his shields or share his thoughts. He does not feel comfortable connecting with others on any level.
However, in order to fly a Cosbolt, a mental connection is necessary between pilot and navigator. Position and intention are communicated in the blink of an eye through the open mind link. Byron struggles with this aspect of piloting, acquiescing to the minimum level of bonding required to fly his fighter. If he is to achieve success though, either in the cockpit or in life, he needs to change.
I think readers will identify with Byron’s conflict. We don’t possess telepathy (bummer!) but we struggle to connect with others. Relationships require communication and commitment, and we often resist out of fear. However, it’s our connection to others that brings meaning to life.
Maybe through Byron’s struggle and journey, we’ll learn to open that window more often.
In the meantime, I’m still wishing for telepathy!
Alex J. Cavanaugh has a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and works in web design and graphics. He is experienced in technical editing and worked with an adult literacy program for several years. A fan of all things science fiction, his interests range from books and movies to music and games.
CassaStar
“…calls to mind the youthful focus of Robert Heinlein’s early military sf, as well as the excitement of space opera epitomized by the many Star Wars novels. Fast-paced military action and a youthful protagonist make this a good choice for both young adult and adult fans of space wars.”
- Library Journal
To pilot the fleet’s finest ship…
Few options remain for Byron. A talented but stubborn young man with a troubled past and rebellious attitude, his cockpit skills are his only hope. Slated to train as a Cosbolt fighter pilot, Byron is determined to prove his worth and begin a new life as he sets off for the moon base of Guaard.
Much to Byron’s chagrin, the toughest instructor in the fleet takes notice of the young pilot. Haunted by a past tragedy, Bassa eventually sees through Byron's tough exterior and insolence. When a secret talent is revealed during training, Bassa feels compelled to help Byron achieve his full potential.
As war brews on the edge of space, time is running short. Byron requires a navigator of exceptional quality to survive, and Bassa must make a decision that could well decide the fate of both men. Will their skills be enough as they embark on a mission that may stretch their abilities to the limit?
CassaStar ISBN 9780981621067, Science fiction/adventure/space opera
AMAZON, BARNES & NOBLE, BAM, AMAZON UK, andAMAZON KINDLE
Also available in eBook format for iPad, Nook, and others
And check out the most amazing book trailer ever!
Monday, October 25, 2010
Developing Contacts to Promote Your Book - Part II
I was one of the presenters for The Muse Online Writers Conference, which included a week-long forum workshop, Developing Contacts to Promote Your Book. Each day had a specific topic and the participants really got into building their contact lists. Today I’m sharing Day II with you.
The whole point of these exercises is to get your brain working. You want to develop these lists while you are writing if at all possible! And as participants in the forum discovered, I’m a stickler for specifics. Generic answers (like ‘everyone’) don’t fly with me! If you are to effectively promote your book, you need specifics and details!
You can share some of your ideas below or copy & paste and work on your lists on your own time. But sharing a few ideas is fun, because it might help out someone else!
Establishing Online Contacts
Refer back to your target audience and your own involvement. Remember to consider your audience’s interests first and think outside the confines of just book-related sites. (Think beyond Amazon and Goodreads!!!)
What websites and blogs attract your audience?
What community sites attract your audience?
In what forums, list-servs, and Yahoo Groups do they participate?
What book-related sites feature your genre? What non-book-related sites?
What sites focus on your book’s subject matter?
Tips:
When first establishing these contacts, you aren’t there to promote your book, just to network. Offer advice or suggestions, but don’t shove your book down their throat.
Look for sites that will: exchange a link with yours; feature you and your book; or offer a free download.
Don’t forget to explore author sites, either.
Bottom line - where can you place your book and subject matter where it will reach the most potential target readers?
The whole point of these exercises is to get your brain working. You want to develop these lists while you are writing if at all possible! And as participants in the forum discovered, I’m a stickler for specifics. Generic answers (like ‘everyone’) don’t fly with me! If you are to effectively promote your book, you need specifics and details!
You can share some of your ideas below or copy & paste and work on your lists on your own time. But sharing a few ideas is fun, because it might help out someone else!
Establishing Online Contacts
Refer back to your target audience and your own involvement. Remember to consider your audience’s interests first and think outside the confines of just book-related sites. (Think beyond Amazon and Goodreads!!!)
What websites and blogs attract your audience?
What community sites attract your audience?
In what forums, list-servs, and Yahoo Groups do they participate?
What book-related sites feature your genre? What non-book-related sites?
What sites focus on your book’s subject matter?
Tips:
When first establishing these contacts, you aren’t there to promote your book, just to network. Offer advice or suggestions, but don’t shove your book down their throat.
Look for sites that will: exchange a link with yours; feature you and your book; or offer a free download.
Don’t forget to explore author sites, either.
Bottom line - where can you place your book and subject matter where it will reach the most potential target readers?
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Developing Contacts to Promote Your Book - Part I
Last week I was one of the presenters for The Muse Online Writers Conference, which included a week-long forum workshop, Developing Contacts to Promote Your Book. Each day had a specific topic and the participants really got into building their contact lists. Over the next few weeks, I’ll share the daily topics with you as well!
The whole point of these exercises is to get your brain working. You want to develop these lists while you are writing if at all possible! And as participants in the forum discovered, I’m a stickler for specifics. Generic answers (like ‘everyone’) don’t fly with me! If you are to effectively promote your book, you need specifics and details!
You can share some of your ideas below or copy & paste and work on your lists on your own time. But sharing a few ideas is fun, because it might help out someone else!
Your Target Audience and Online Presence
Start creating a target audience profile:
Who is your target audience?
What age and gender?
Location and income bracket?
What are their interests and hobbies?
If applicable, consider your audience’s parents and create a profile on them as well.
Consider your target audience in depth:
Where does your target audience frequent-
Where do they go online? Blogs & websites?
Where do they go in the real world?
What magazines or news do they read?
Your profile:
What ‘s your involvement online and in your community?
Do you have a website or blog?
Are you involved in online community sites?
Are you involved in clubs or organizations? Online and offline.
What are your current 'activities' online and offline?
Remember - specifics!!
The whole point of these exercises is to get your brain working. You want to develop these lists while you are writing if at all possible! And as participants in the forum discovered, I’m a stickler for specifics. Generic answers (like ‘everyone’) don’t fly with me! If you are to effectively promote your book, you need specifics and details!
You can share some of your ideas below or copy & paste and work on your lists on your own time. But sharing a few ideas is fun, because it might help out someone else!
Your Target Audience and Online Presence
Start creating a target audience profile:
Who is your target audience?
What age and gender?
Location and income bracket?
What are their interests and hobbies?
If applicable, consider your audience’s parents and create a profile on them as well.
Consider your target audience in depth:
Where does your target audience frequent-
Where do they go online? Blogs & websites?
Where do they go in the real world?
What magazines or news do they read?
Your profile:
What ‘s your involvement online and in your community?
Do you have a website or blog?
Are you involved in online community sites?
Are you involved in clubs or organizations? Online and offline.
What are your current 'activities' online and offline?
Remember - specifics!!
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Beware!!
And you closed your request note with saying, “How we get our ideas for books fascinates me!”
So true dat, I agree. Beware the Devil’s Hug is one of those classic “what if?” scenarios, an idea that came to me nearly five years ago. It occurred to me, while observing a homeless man panhandling, seeing the reactions of ‘normal’ people to his un-comely and raggedy appearance ... everything from distrust, to disdain, to fear. Sure, some people gave him money, mostly to salve their own feelings of guilt, I believe, although I’m certain some people genuinely wanted to help the guy out—not many, though. The majority of people avoided eye contact with him, and pedestrians walked widely around the man, as if touching him might give them the cooties.
I watched from across the street for a long time, feeling the poignancy of this life situation, when suddenly it hit me. What if this man was an angel, or some kind of high spiritual being, with special healing powers ... but nobody receives the blessing he can bestow upon them because they won’t—well, here—here is the ‘what if’ blurb that dawned on me in that epiphany-moment. It hasn’t changed by one word since then, all those years ago, to now:
What if a homeless, smelly, ugly, unkempt old man had a hug so powerful it could cure cancer? Cause a prostitute to stop hooking, find happiness and seek true love? Shake the demons of addiction free from a junkie? Make a radical terrorist Muslim want to befriend and love a Christian and visa versa? But rare is the beneficiary of his divine embrace – nobody wants to come near him out of fear.
You can see the main themes in the book in the blurb, also. They are all drawn from life experiences and lessons learned of mine. I had just come through a bout with a serious narcotics addiction, this I wrote about in my first book, I Romanced the Stone (Memoirs of a Recovering Hippie), and during that past year had had a love affair with a prostitute. My business had failed, I was going bankrupt, my marriage was on the rocks (we’re fine now, back together, thank God), I foolishly turned to the streets for some kind of base level of satisfaction, and dated this girl who (I found out later) happened to be a crack addict. We hit it off, she quit hooking, and we struck up a relationship. But I also got addicted to crack in the process. It’s too long of a story to go into and explain here ... read the book.
So anyway, I had ‘prostitute’, ‘happiness/true love’, ‘drugs/demons of addiction’ fresh on the life experience brain. When I kicked the nasty habit, I also knew I could never go back to that girl and be near that crowd, that kind of lifestyle, again. I am cured, I don’t fight urges at all, never have since a powerful conversion God experience I had—again written about in “Stone”—but I’m not stupid enough to put myself in a position of temptation, either. So I never went back to see the girl. But when you know someone that intimately you never forget them, can’t stop having a spot in your heart of love for them. I often wonder how she’s doing, wishing, hoping and praying for her that she was able to get off the drugs and make something of herself. A lot of Destiny, one of the main characters in the book, is fashioned after that woman, and I sure as heck wish I were as great a man as The Old Man main character in Hugs who cured and healed Destiny with nothing more than a fully clothed hug. I’d go back down to the ‘hood, find that girl and lay it on her, fo sho and fershizzle.
Another life experience that bears on the Hugs story, this one a few years before the affair/narcotics thing, was the utter shock of my second oldest daughter, a very strong-willed and independent young lady, converting to Islam and marrying a Muslim. I wrote a whole book—never published, I didn’t think it good enough overall to be a debut book—about my journal-style thought-trip trying to get a mental and emotional handle on how this could happen. Islamic culture, generally speaking, when practiced in age-old traditional fashion like the particular group she married into, is so male dominant with women held to positions of servitude and having less freedom and autonomy than the men. How could this hold any allure to a young, intelligent, promising daughter of mine who had ‘successful career woman’ written all over her?
During the understanding and accepting process, I became very familiar with the mutual distrust and even sometimes hatred between Jews, Christians, and Muslims. They all worship the same One God of Abraham, but will beat, torture, and kill each other over their differing religious views. I took the time to read the Qur’an, and found it to be remarkably similar to the Bible. Lots of the same stories and parables.
Yet there is all this animosity between the Jewish/Christian camps and the Muslims. Go figure.
A major misinterpretation of the Qur’an, that has led to radical Islamic terrorist tactics, is the lack of understanding of the true meaning of the Jihad. Hate and fear-based extremists take reading about the struggle each good Muslim is to undertake to destroy the evil opponents of Allah as meaning literally to kill those people who do not believe in their God and Muhammad the Prophet. This is religious lunacy gone mad. The Jihad is intended to be an internal warfare—fighting the demons of evil within, overcoming them, purifying one’s self and attaining enlightenment and safe passage to Paradise.
I have long thought the most hideous and heinous oxymoron of all time is the ‘Holy War’. You simply cannot put those two words together. I am appalled at all the bloodshed, evil acts of man against fellow man, done in the name of God and religion. It is the single most abused and idiotic excuse for staging warfare throughout all recorded history. So one of the characters in the book is modelled a great deal like me, I call him Christian Dean Wilson. He’s a writer, and on a global campaign to create brotherhood, peace and harmony, by diluting religious dogmas through an organization called CUE ... an acronym for Coalition for Unity and Enlightenment.
Now take these themes, a prostitute/addict on a self-loathing mission of self-destruction with no love in her life, religious dogmas causing war and power struggles, a man heading up a coalition that wants to see people of differing faiths find common ground, develop trust in and love for each other, a terrorist plot to thwart their mission, and a haggard looking old homeless man who can remedy any malady for anybody if they would give him the time of day and a little respect. There you have the idea for, and the themes running through, Beware the Devil’s Hug .
How is it the same or different from my other books? It is the same in that I write mainly in the spiritual/inspirational genre, with elements of cross-over genres mixed in. My novels deliver spiritual messages in non-preachy ways, through the spinning of entertaining tales, and in that respect Hugs is similar to my last (and first) fiction, Owen Fiddler . How it differs is in the complexity—there is a lot going on, multiple sub-plots, unusual relationships, a bold red herring with a twist—and its particular mixture of cross-over genres. Beware the Devil’s Hug has aspects of religious, social, and political commentary; romance, including a bit of soft erotica; suspense/thriller; and mystery/intrigue woven into the story. I’ve received several reviews that state the book can be read on a purely entertainment level, it’s got the moxie and pizzazz of a fun and gripping fiction read. And for those who seek deeper messages in their books, it comes through with that also, again not in a preachy, sermon-like manner, but delivered within the subtleties of the story line.
Next stop in the tour is Patricia Stoltey’s Blog
For more information, visit Marvin’s site, The Old Silly
Don’t forget to register to win in the Hugs Therapy Virtual Tour 2010
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