Thursday, September 21, 2017
#Music #Playlist, #YouTube, @IMmusichart @MusicMixDaily
A list of some of my new go-to songs. Check them out on Youtube if you have the chance. Love listenin' to these songs at night on the way to work when it's so late:anything that keeps me awake will suit me. The Highlighted ones are my big faves.
Wednesday, September 20, 2017
Tuesday, September 19, 2017
Interview with L.B.
Author L.B is with me today. L.B.'s second novel, STOLEN SECRETS (Boyds Mills Press) is published today. Readers come and check it out!! Link
L.B is the author of two young adult books (and a few not-yet-discovered middle grade and young adult projects tucked safely away in a drawer somewhere.)
L.B, what have you written?
I have two novels for young adults. My newest one, STOLEN
SECRETS, comes out today. It’s a contemporary story with a
historical mystery, and it’s got a fabulous ending that I wish I
could share, but can’t.
My debut, LEAGUE OF STRAYS, came out in 2012. It’s
available in ePub format.
Give us an insight into your main characters. What does he/she
do that is so special?
In STOLEN SECRETS, my two main characters are Livvy and
Franklin D. Livvy has a photographic memory-- both a blessing
and a curse. The typical brain can forget details that are either
unimportant or in some cases, disturbing. Livvy’s mind won’t let
her sift out any information. Franklin D. is an eccentric character,
who accepts everyone and appreciates uniqueness in himself
and others. He is funny and wonderful and warm, and I fell in
love with him from his first line of dialogue.
What drew you to write in this genre?
I was very connected to my life as a teen, through keeping a
journal and being “in the moment” during those years. I also love
the adventures teens have. They aren’t yet as risk-averse, or
bogged down with too many responsibilities (at least not in
literature).
Would you hire someone else to format, edit, or create artwork
for your novel, how would you select them and how much weight
do you put on reviews?
I have been traditionally published so those have not been my
concerns mostly. That being said, I have a middle grade novel
that I really want to be published, so I am considering hiring a
freelance editor to help me get it into better shape. If this book
never sells traditionally, I know a lot of people who used to work
for publishers that are now freelance, so it shouldn’t be too hard
to find qualified, talented helpers.
I love it when readers take the time to review, because it truly
helps spread the word about my book. As far as review content
goes, I understand that everyone has a different opinion, so I
don’t worry about that aspect. When a critique within a review
feels real to me, I do my best to learn from it and apply that
knowledge to future projects.
Do you have any advice for other authors on how to market their
books?
No one knows what works. All I can suggest is to come up with a
plan that utilizes your specific strengths. In my case, I like to talk,
so I am focusing on finding spots as a guest on podcasts, school
visits, and speaking at events that might support the subject
matter of my book.
What do your fans mean to you?
Sort answer: I love them! Long answer: I write to make a
difference, to reach people. Fans let me know that I’ve done that.
I have one fan, in particular, who’s become a friend. Fans are
well-read, so if they like my book, well, that just makes me
supremely, ecstatically happy, you know?
Contact L.B.:
Readers, please comment below.
L.B is the author of two young adult books (and a few not-yet-discovered middle grade and young adult projects tucked safely away in a drawer somewhere.) L.B, what have you written?
I have two novels for young adults. My newest one, STOLEN
SECRETS, comes out today. It’s a contemporary story with a
historical mystery, and it’s got a fabulous ending that I wish I
could share, but can’t.
My debut, LEAGUE OF STRAYS, came out in 2012. It’s
available in ePub format.
Give us an insight into your main characters. What does he/she
do that is so special?
In STOLEN SECRETS, my two main characters are Livvy and
Franklin D. Livvy has a photographic memory-- both a blessing
and a curse. The typical brain can forget details that are either
unimportant or in some cases, disturbing. Livvy’s mind won’t let
her sift out any information. Franklin D. is an eccentric character,
who accepts everyone and appreciates uniqueness in himself
and others. He is funny and wonderful and warm, and I fell in
love with him from his first line of dialogue.
What drew you to write in this genre?
I was very connected to my life as a teen, through keeping a
journal and being “in the moment” during those years. I also love
the adventures teens have. They aren’t yet as risk-averse, or
bogged down with too many responsibilities (at least not in
literature).
Would you hire someone else to format, edit, or create artwork
for your novel, how would you select them and how much weight
do you put on reviews?
I have been traditionally published so those have not been my
concerns mostly. That being said, I have a middle grade novel
that I really want to be published, so I am considering hiring a
freelance editor to help me get it into better shape. If this book
never sells traditionally, I know a lot of people who used to work
for publishers that are now freelance, so it shouldn’t be too hard
to find qualified, talented helpers.
I love it when readers take the time to review, because it truly
helps spread the word about my book. As far as review content
goes, I understand that everyone has a different opinion, so I
don’t worry about that aspect. When a critique within a review
feels real to me, I do my best to learn from it and apply that
knowledge to future projects.
Do you have any advice for other authors on how to market their
books?
No one knows what works. All I can suggest is to come up with a
plan that utilizes your specific strengths. In my case, I like to talk,
so I am focusing on finding spots as a guest on podcasts, school
visits, and speaking at events that might support the subject
matter of my book.
What do your fans mean to you?
Sort answer: I love them! Long answer: I write to make a
difference, to reach people. Fans let me know that I’ve done that.
I have one fan, in particular, who’s become a friend. Fans are
well-read, so if they like my book, well, that just makes me
supremely, ecstatically happy, you know?
Contact L.B.:
Readers, please comment below.
Sunday, September 17, 2017
Weekend Warriors #wewriwa #amwriting #amjoy
Welcome to Weekend Writing Warriors, the weekly hop for everyone who loves to write! Sign up on the website:Wewriwa.com and share an 8 to 10 sentence snippet of your writing on Sunday.
This is a fictional snippet on a piece I've been working on.
Everyone focuses their eyes and energy on the train doors almost like their telepathically willing the train to stop and make the doors open so they can get the hell out of here
I laugh cause I forgot to wear my purple.
"Purple pride," one bum says in the back.
Guess he’s missed the message that were all supposed quiet right now.
All of a sudden someone in the front of the car starts shouting "Go Vikings, run up the score. You'll hear us yell for more."
Everyone on the train starts shouting "V-I-K-I-N-G-S, Skol, Vikings, let's go!"
Saturday, September 16, 2017
Skye McNeil @Skye_McNeil7 #amreading #amjoy
Author Skye McNeil is joining me today. Skye writes RomCom and Romantic Suspense novels that are smart, flirty and sassy.
And onto the interview...
Skye, what have you written?
Appointed By Fate is my first book with Hot Tree Publishing and my third book in total to be published. I also have Timberline with Hartwood Publishing and Donuts, Diamonds and Assorted Details self-published.
Give us an insight into your main characters. What does he/she do that is so special?
Joci Dorous is a criminal attorney in Des Moines, Iowa. She has a knack for getting the best possible outcome for her clients. She also has a delicious love triangle throughout the book. Cameron Shearer is a man on trial for homicide, but the mystery surrounding the murder is why he came to Iowa in the first place. His association with the Del Rossi mob gets him into more trouble than he can handle, which is why he needs Joci, a long lost friend, to help him out. The two character together make an incredible team and the constant struggle to see if they end up together keeps readers engaged.
What drew you to write in these genre?
I love to read books and watch shows/movies that leave you guessing and wanting more. I always like romance to make the stakes that much higher when I read/watch. Romantic suspense really encompasses both for the reader.
Would you hire someone else to format, edit, or create artwork for your novel, how would you select them and how much weight do you put on reviews?
When I look for a person or company to assist me in my novel adventures, I always want to feel as though I'm not only an author, but also a part of a family. My publisher, Hot Tree Publishing, does an excellent job with informing me of what's expected of me as well as guiding me to become the best author possible.
Do you have any advice for other authors on how to market their books?
The best advice I ever got for marketing was to be a go-getter and never stop. I'm more of an introvert, so it's difficult at times, but when you meet your readers who otherwise would never know about your books except from marketing, it is an amazing feeling.
What do your fans mean to you?
My fans mean the world to me. Without them, I'm stuck reading my books alone. The support and interaction with my fans encourages me to continue my writing endeavors and often times offer new ideas.
Links:
Amazon Buy Link: http://a.co/c0ocLE9
Website: www.skyemcneil.com
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/skye_
Instagram: https://www.
Readers, please comment below.
Saturday, September 9, 2017
Weekend Warriors #Wewriwa
Welcome to Weekend Writing Warriors, the weekly hop for everyone who loves to write! Sign up on the website:Wewriwa.com and share an 8 to 10 sentence snippet of your writing on Sunday.
This is a small snippet from a new piece of work I'm writing
I’m a man who can always feel the liquor in my chest as it soothes and heats my throat. And then right after, mind f#@$*&! numbness.
I used to be a stock boy at the grocery store. I used to greet old women as I walked around the store armed with nothing but a price scanner, a box cutter and a walkie-talkie.
‘Grocery to register nine.’
"God damn," sorry I just had to say it. It’s the damn CSM calling me up front and there’s no way I’m going. Not today, I think.
Wednesday, September 6, 2017
Saturday, August 26, 2017
Weekend Warriors #wewriwa
Welcome to Weekend Writing Warriors, the weekly hop for everyone who loves to write! Sign up on the website:Wewriwa.com and share an 8 to 10 sentence snippet of your writing on Sunday.
No one likes it when their family life changes. This is particularly hard for the Radtke's. A troublesome boy enters their lives and the children are an endless journey to make sure this boy doesn't get into any further trouble or cause their parents to lose their fostering license. This is a snippet from my novella, "Oh Brother."
***
“Well, hello,” said the wrench wielding man. His two front teeth gaped up at me, while his larger than life sneer told me we were in trouble.
He tapped his wrench against his palm, “What do we have here?”
“I'd say we have a bunch of minors up to no good," said the third man. His bald head gleamed from the summer's heat. He took out a dirty handkerchief and wiped it.
“What ever shall we do with these minors?” asked the first man.
Sunday, August 20, 2017
Sunday Post
The Sunday Post is a weekly meme hosted @ Caffeinated Book Reviewer. It’s a chance to share news~ A post to recap the past week on your blog and showcase books and things received. Share news about what is coming up on our blog for the week ahead. See rules here: Sunday Post Meme
August
I went on vacation to Wisconsin. You got to love the lakes there. They seem to call out to you, swim in me, sail on me. Come into the conservatory and park by the dock. In fact, dock wherever you want. Wouldn't it be cool if everywhere you went you could dock? Docking is so much different than walking or perching yourself somewhere. The subtle flow of the water makes you ask a question like: Do I want to stay here? Cause if i don't I can easily just float away. Float, float, float away just like that. And everything you do is made choice by the lake which steers you away calmly.
I had a few friends text me their whereabouts during my trip. They were either taking a meditation class or enjoying a Backstreet Boys concert. Other friends were discussing music or smiling into video calls, saying hi, waving even, while I pointed at the lake. Isn't communication great?
We also stayed at the Hilton in Wisconsin Dells and swam in the hotel pool. You just have to swim in hotel pools, don't you? You just have to take in everything on vacation.
We also watched a group of people who had rented a pontoon boat and had a party. They back flipped and jumped off the pontoon that also substituted as a cafe. Honestly, it looked like a cabin that could be an outhouse in the middle of the lake.
Other than that the trip was pretty great. I hope to remember Mt Olympus and the looks on people's faces as ten foot waves came and picked everyone up and distributed them somewhere else in the pool.
CURRENTLY
Reading: Eileen by Ottessa Moshfegh, More Happy Than Not by Adam Silvera, The Upside of Unrequited by Becky Albertalli, Bone Gap by Laura Ruby
Listening: The Sun is Also a Star by Nicola Yoon, Geekerella by Ashley Poston,Vanishing Acts by Jodi Picoult
Watching: Girl Boss on Netflix. Finally a show that combines my two loves: Fashion and Online Shopping! Also watching Ozark and Game of Thrones.
ON THE BLOG
What Happened:
(Not a whole lot so I'll talk about last week)
Wednesday: Posted #WordlessWednesday and some pics that related to my trip to Chicago a while back. Visited places like Grant park and took double decker tour.
Up Coming:
Wednesday:Wordless Wednesday
Sunday:Weekend Warriors
Readers if you want to comment, please do so below.
m
Wednesday, August 16, 2017
Friday, August 11, 2017
Turkey Comes to Trin Carl's Blog
Here is another expat blog, aysulove.com This woman is writing from Turkey. She has a montage of beautiful city pictures of Turkey in her cover page and she has a post called Ex-Pats the TV show. I like how she describes herself in her blog A married girl married and living in Turkey for 3 years, sadness to happiness. Here you will hear about the struggles and high points of living in another culture, learning the new ways to cook, speak, make friends along with many more. Now I really thought I heard it all when it comes to reality shows but here we go folks another show to add to your list. She posts a link of where you can find the show on her page aysulove.com/2014/01/19/ex-pats-the-tv-show-2/ .
Here is another Blog from Turkey called Post Cards from Istanbul. But the actual site can be found at pointwhitedrive.wordpress.com and she has a cloud a list of words related to Turkey. One phrase caught my mind Night Life in Istanbul. Okay readers, what do we think we'll find here? Yes, of course clubs and more clubs One of the clubs called Quick China looks very modern and romantic, dark and cavernous.
Wednesday, August 9, 2017
Monday, August 7, 2017
Interview with @CDGallantKing #amreading @amjoy
Joining me today is author, C.D. Gallant-King. C.D. was born and raised in Newfoundland and currently resides in Ottawa, Ontario.
C.D. has written eight novels you haven't read, because they're still locked in The Closet. The Closet is both a figurative and literal location - it is the space in his head where the stories are kept, but it's also an actual closet under the stairs in his basement where the stories are also kept. It's very meta.
He has published two novels you can read, Ten Thousand Days in 2015 and Hell Comes to Hogtown in 2016. He has an ongoing series of dark comic fantasy stories called Werebear vs. Landopus, which is available on Kindle Unlimited. His work will also appear in Mystery and Horror’s upcoming humour/speculative fiction anthology, Strangely Funny IV.
And onto the interview....
So C.D, what have you written?
I’ve written I believe ten novels and dozens of short stories, but most of them are still sitting in the basement in the little room under the stairs I affectionately call The Closet. I’ve self-published two of those novels - Ten Thousand Days and Hell Comes to Hogtown. Both are technically urban fantasy, but Days leans more toward fantasy and romance while Hogtown leans (really hard) into comedy and horror. I’m also self-publishing a dark comic fantasy series of short-stories called Werebear vs. Landopus. The second installment, “Revenge of the Lycanterrancephalopod,” was just released. I also have a story appearing in Mystery and Horror’s Strangely Funny IV anthology of humorous speculative fiction.
Did you do a press release, Goodreads book launch or anything else to promote your work and did it work?
My writing career is a series of baby steps and experiments. Each time I release a book I try a little more, to see what works and what doesn’t. I’ve done blog tours and podcast interviews. For the last book I did a video trailer. I’ve given away more free copies each time, hoping for reviews and feedback in exchange. I’ve done a few small promotions and a little advertising.
Has any of it worked? Maybe a little. I haven’t spent a ton of time or money on these things, so I didn’t get a huge return on them, but a little promotion will give you a little response. Maybe one or two sales. It may not seem like much, but do you know what no promotion will get you? Zero sales. So a bare minimum of shilling your work is required just so people remember you’re alive.
You're right about that one C.D. I find that the more an author publishes the more they get noticed. And it can't be a huge time span between each book. I look at how many books Amanda Hocking has published and say, "Now that's a woman who knows how to market and write at the same time!"
You're right about that one C.D. I find that the more an author publishes the more they get noticed. And it can't be a huge time span between each book. I look at how many books Amanda Hocking has published and say, "Now that's a woman who knows how to market and write at the same time!"
I haven’t put a ton of effort into marketing because what am I marketing? Two books and a couple of short stories? That’s what I currently have on Amazon. And they’re all very different in tone and style. So even if I convince someone to read something and they like it, there’s no guarantee I have anything else they’d like, so what’s the point? If I turn them off as quickly as I win them, I haven’t gained anything. But if someone can read two or three of your books and enjoy them, they’re more likely to become a fan, and more likely to tell other people about it, who may buy even more books. The marketing will pay off a lot more than just making one or two sales.
Do you proofread/edit all your own books or do you get someone to do that for you?
I proofread and edit, everyone should and you need to be able to do at least a cursory revision of your own work. Authors should be their own worst critic, and not be afraid to cut out anything that doesn’t serve the greater purpose of the story.
That being said, getting someone to help you edit or proofread is non-negotiable. You have to do it. No matter how good you are, someone else will always point out errors and typos, and more importantly, they will tell you when something is stupid and should be changed. You need a second set of critical eyes on your work (sometimes three or more sets). If you can’t afford a real editor at the very least find a friend or family member who is well-read and/or an academic (preferably both) who is willing to help you out for beer and pizza. A well-read reader should be able to pick up plot holes, weird pacing, bad tropes and clichés, and other story errors. An academic will help you with grammar.
I’ve had the pleasure and good fortune to work with freelance editor Amy Allen-Macleod on my last two books. If you’re looking for an editor, be sure to check her out at: https://amyallenmacleod.com/
Which writers inspire you?
Terry Pratchett, Kurt Vonnegut, Christopher Moore, Neil Gaiman, Stephen King, Cormac McCarthy, Ken Follett, Chuck Palahniuk. I'm currently really digging PG Wodehouse. My first book, Ten Thousand Days, was my take on Gaiman. Hell Comes to Hogtown is my Christopher Moore. I have other unpublished works that are takes on Pratchett and Palahniuk. I suspect (at least hope) my author voice will end up being some unholy combination of all of those, I’m still working on it.
Last question C.D., do you have any advice for other authors on how to market their books?
Don’t do what I do?
Seriously, I really don’t have a plan. I’m winging it and playing it by ear, trying different things to see how they work. I don’t have a serious career path in writing at the moment, so I don’t have much to lose. But if you do want to make a serious go of it, you have to make a plan. Know exactly what you want and find some way to measure it. Do you want a review in X magazine or website? Do you want to gain 10,000 new followers? Do you want to increase your sales rank to top 100 on Amazon, or sell X number of copies per week? Pick a target and then figure out a logical way to get there. Talk to professionals and people who have done it before (definitely not me) to make a realistic action plan. I think a lot of writers put out a book or two and then kind of float nebulously, wishing they got more sales but not really having a plan to get there, and then they are disappointed when nothing happens. Don’t do that. Pick a road and stick to it.
That's all the time we have today folks. Thanks for joining me C.D.
Thanks for having me.
How to get in touch with C.D.
Books:
Readers, if you have any questions or comments for C.D. please comment below.
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