"Three things give the student the the possibility of surpassing her teacher: ask a lot of questions, remember the answers, teach." ~Jan Amos Comenius
I'm in Boston today! Pictures from yesterday's teacher awards ceremony to come next week :)
In the meantime, here's some info from the latest Romance Writers' Report:
The first annual National Bookstore Day, "devoted to celebrating bookselling and the vibrant culture of bookstores," is scheduled for November 7. Wonder if my local stores know this and are doing anything to celebrate? I'm thinking an open wine tasting, 50% discount on best-sellers, etc....
AND
Romance fiction generated $1.37 billion in sales in 2008 and was the biggest share of the consumer market, with 13.5%. 7311 new romance titles were published, and 74.8 million Americans read at least one romance novel in 2008. And the "most typical" romance reader is a woman between the ages of 31 and 49 who is currently in a romantic relationship.
Interesting, huh??
Friday, October 23, 2009
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Writers' Wednesday: A Contest!!
My author friend J.K. Coi is hosting a marvelous book video contest: one entry per person, and she'll post all the submissions on her blog November 2 -6 for voting. What does the winner get? A great basket filled with books and other goodies AND a 50% off coupon for a trailer or a trailer review at Blazing Trailers.
So....if you're an author with a book video, you might want to give it a try. I haven't decided if I'm entering or not, but if I do, which one do you think I should enter? Here are the 4 I currently have:
So....if you're an author with a book video, you might want to give it a try. I haven't decided if I'm entering or not, but if I do, which one do you think I should enter? Here are the 4 I currently have:
Monday, October 19, 2009
"A gifted teacher is as rare as a gifted doctor, and makes far less money." ~Anonymous
Finished proofreading the galley for One Night in Napa this weekend - thankfully! Whew...but it's always nice, in reading something you've written, to love the story again. I do like this one and can't wait to see it in print!
***
Diane Craver wrote me a lovely review of it, by the way. Here's just a snippet:
"I enjoyed the fast moving suspense in One Night in Napa...During the twenty-four hours, the climax explodes with passion and sexual desire between Kira and Grant...I have read all of Allie Boniface's novels and I highly recommend them. Her books, including her latest, are always exciting and satisfying page-turners filled with lots of emotion..."
Thanks, Diane!
***
I'm excited: the end of this week, I'm off to Boston where I'm being given a teaching award by Boston College. Can't wait to see the student who nominated me - she's a senior there and looking forward to "showing off" her adopted hometown and school.
***
Did you see that 3 people died during the Detroit Marathon yesterday?? Now that's scary...
Finished proofreading the galley for One Night in Napa this weekend - thankfully! Whew...but it's always nice, in reading something you've written, to love the story again. I do like this one and can't wait to see it in print!
***
Diane Craver wrote me a lovely review of it, by the way. Here's just a snippet:
"I enjoyed the fast moving suspense in One Night in Napa...During the twenty-four hours, the climax explodes with passion and sexual desire between Kira and Grant...I have read all of Allie Boniface's novels and I highly recommend them. Her books, including her latest, are always exciting and satisfying page-turners filled with lots of emotion..."
Thanks, Diane!
***
I'm excited: the end of this week, I'm off to Boston where I'm being given a teaching award by Boston College. Can't wait to see the student who nominated me - she's a senior there and looking forward to "showing off" her adopted hometown and school.
***
Did you see that 3 people died during the Detroit Marathon yesterday?? Now that's scary...
Friday, October 16, 2009
Friday Fun Facts
Audrey Niffenegger, author of the runaway best-seller The Time Traveler's Wife, received close to $5 million as an advance for her second novel, Her Fearful Symmetry. According to Writer's Digest, it's "a ghost story set in and around London's famed Highgate Cemetery...mirror-image twins inherit their aunt's flat and begin to question their identities, the bonds of sisterhood, and whether their aunt is really gone after all." But $5 million dollars. Wow.
***
The holidays will be here before we know it -- I should know by the fact that we had snow yesterday - on October 15th!! Yikes...I'm not ready!
But anyway, as those days of hot cocoa and carols fast approach, what are you going to buy the writers and readers in your life? Books? Bookstore gift cards? A cozy throw and slippers for curling up while reading that shiny new book? I think I'm adding an ebook reader to my list this year. Since my books all release in ebook prior to print, I'm thinking I should support the industry and actually own one. Plus I sort of like the idea of carrying around a bunch of books on an electronic device that can fit in my purse~
***
The holidays will be here before we know it -- I should know by the fact that we had snow yesterday - on October 15th!! Yikes...I'm not ready!
But anyway, as those days of hot cocoa and carols fast approach, what are you going to buy the writers and readers in your life? Books? Bookstore gift cards? A cozy throw and slippers for curling up while reading that shiny new book? I think I'm adding an ebook reader to my list this year. Since my books all release in ebook prior to print, I'm thinking I should support the industry and actually own one. Plus I sort of like the idea of carrying around a bunch of books on an electronic device that can fit in my purse~
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Writers' Wednesday: Tackling the Galley
Before I became published, I didn't have the foggiest notion of all the steps that occurred between submitting a manuscript to a publisher and seeing the finished product on the shelves of a bookstore. Now, 3 books in and 2 more to come in 2010, I have a better idea. And I'll be honest: it's a long, lengthy process. Right now, I'm tackling the galley of One Night in Napa, which will release May 1, 2010.
What is a galley? It's the final author look at his/her manuscript before it's released in print, permanently. This means that the publisher sends you the complete document for you to read through, page by page, to catch any last-minute errors or wording changes before it's immortalized on the page. Ugh. Utter tedium, as far as I'm concerned.
OK, it's nice to have that last look at your words before they release in print. But for me, it requires so much close attention that I can only read through a few chapters at a time. I feel wholly responsible for each word, each letter, and I tend to lose concentration after 30 or 40 minutes or so.
So the reading of my galley is consuming my life this week. I try to tackle it little bits at a time, though October 19 is my deadline, so I don't have too much time to play with.
The nice part about the galley? It allows me to fall in love with my story again, to remember why I love these characters their story so much. So as much as I complain about the close reading, I do like being reminded of why I wrote it in the first place. And I hope you'll feel that way as well!
Less than 7 months until One Night in Napa releases in print...I can hardly wait! Can you??
Friday, October 09, 2009
Friday Fun Facts
"Real integrity is doing the right thing, knowing that nobody's going to know whether you did it or not." ~Oprah Winfrey
Attention all authors: the Backspace Writers Conference will be held on November 5 and 6 in NYC. This conference prides itself on creating an informal atmosphere in which authors and agents can mingle at several different times and in different ways, as opposed to the formal "agent pitch session" you'll find at most conferences. It's a little pricey, IMO ($500 for both days, $250 for one) but it might be worth a look if you're in the market for an agent.
**
A great writer's ezine, WOW-Women on Writing, just released their latest issue. Lots of writing info and opportunites. Check it out here.
**
A writing friend of mine emailed the other day to ask me how much I spend on marketing per book. I was embarrassed to admit that I don't know, exactly. I mean, I was able to sit down and figure out a rough estimate, between online and print advertising, ordering bookmarks/other swag, and buying my own author copies. But I know some other authors keep detailed accounts of every dime they spend on marketing and promotions. Are you one of those? Do you use Quicken or some other program to keep track of all your author expenses?
**
Have a great weekend!
Attention all authors: the Backspace Writers Conference will be held on November 5 and 6 in NYC. This conference prides itself on creating an informal atmosphere in which authors and agents can mingle at several different times and in different ways, as opposed to the formal "agent pitch session" you'll find at most conferences. It's a little pricey, IMO ($500 for both days, $250 for one) but it might be worth a look if you're in the market for an agent.
**
A great writer's ezine, WOW-Women on Writing, just released their latest issue. Lots of writing info and opportunites. Check it out here.
**
A writing friend of mine emailed the other day to ask me how much I spend on marketing per book. I was embarrassed to admit that I don't know, exactly. I mean, I was able to sit down and figure out a rough estimate, between online and print advertising, ordering bookmarks/other swag, and buying my own author copies. But I know some other authors keep detailed accounts of every dime they spend on marketing and promotions. Are you one of those? Do you use Quicken or some other program to keep track of all your author expenses?
**
Have a great weekend!
Wednesday, October 07, 2009
Writers' (or Maybe Readers'?) Wednesday
"I would be most content if my children grew up to be the kind of people who think decorating consists mostly of building enough bookshelves." ~Anna Quindlen
Busy, busy, busy! I always forget once school begins how full and complicated my days become. Thus, no official blog post today, but I do have a question for you: one of my friends is starting up a book club, and we're trying to decide of which books to read for our first few meetings. Any suggestions?
Busy, busy, busy! I always forget once school begins how full and complicated my days become. Thus, no official blog post today, but I do have a question for you: one of my friends is starting up a book club, and we're trying to decide of which books to read for our first few meetings. Any suggestions?
Monday, October 05, 2009
Monday Mentionables
Received another 5-Book review from The Long and the Short of It last week, for One Night in Memphis!
"Allie Boniface has given us another terrific read...I got so lost in this story with the characters and the plot and the scenery...Ms. Boniface took a storyline and made it into a work of art. She's definitely an author you must read. And this is a book - and a series - you'll want to read over and over again."
The cool thing is, I think this reviewer went looking for my other books after she read and enjoyed One Night in Napa. I only hope new readers will do the same!
*****
Went and saw the movie "Bright Star" with some girlfriends last night. It's an independent film, a love story based on John Keats and the girl next door, Fanny Brawne, who became his muse. Though a little slow, it had some beautiful moments and lines. I didn't realize he died at just 25 years old. How much more poetry could he have written if he'd lived even another 10 or 20??
"Allie Boniface has given us another terrific read...I got so lost in this story with the characters and the plot and the scenery...Ms. Boniface took a storyline and made it into a work of art. She's definitely an author you must read. And this is a book - and a series - you'll want to read over and over again."
The cool thing is, I think this reviewer went looking for my other books after she read and enjoyed One Night in Napa. I only hope new readers will do the same!
*****
Went and saw the movie "Bright Star" with some girlfriends last night. It's an independent film, a love story based on John Keats and the girl next door, Fanny Brawne, who became his muse. Though a little slow, it had some beautiful moments and lines. I didn't realize he died at just 25 years old. How much more poetry could he have written if he'd lived even another 10 or 20??
Friday, October 02, 2009
Finally, A Cover!
What do you think of the cover for Summer's Song??
This one took the most back-and-forth with my editor and cover artist ~ we had a hard time getting the right visual we were all satisfied with. I'm really happy with this one; it has the mountains in the background and Damian's guitar in the foreground, which are both important to the story. And I think the interaction of the hero/heroine is just sensual enough... ;)
Mostly, though, I have to say that I'm so happy this story finally has a home. It's the one I worked on the longest and revised the most, so to see the title finally on an official cover is just like heaven :)
P.S. It releases in ebook November 17th...
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
It's Banned Books Week!
It's Banned Books Week! Now, when I mentioned that to my high school English students yesterday, they all (all) stared at me with blank looks on their faces. I didn't know whether to be annoyed that they were so clueless, or happy that they hadn't personally experienced the concept of banned books before.
Regardless, I took the time to explain what it is -- a week established by the American Library Association to raise awareness about the importance of the First Amendment and the freedom to choose which books we want to read in this country. Of course, some of the "classics" now taught in many high schools across the country were banned or at least challenged at one point, including To Kill a Mockingbird, Catcher in the Rye, and Huck Finn. And many current favorites have also come under fire, including the Harry Potter series and Judy Blume's coming-of-age teen novel, Forever.
I also showed the students my all-time favorite YouTube video: John Green talking about why his book Looking for Alaska shouldn't be banned in a New York eleventh grade English class. It's worth another look, here:
What do you think? Is there ever a case where a book should be banned from a school or public library?
Regardless, I took the time to explain what it is -- a week established by the American Library Association to raise awareness about the importance of the First Amendment and the freedom to choose which books we want to read in this country. Of course, some of the "classics" now taught in many high schools across the country were banned or at least challenged at one point, including To Kill a Mockingbird, Catcher in the Rye, and Huck Finn. And many current favorites have also come under fire, including the Harry Potter series and Judy Blume's coming-of-age teen novel, Forever.
I also showed the students my all-time favorite YouTube video: John Green talking about why his book Looking for Alaska shouldn't be banned in a New York eleventh grade English class. It's worth another look, here:
What do you think? Is there ever a case where a book should be banned from a school or public library?
Monday, September 28, 2009
Monday Mentionables
Finally got my first review for One Night in Napa, which released in ebook back in July. I don't mind waiting for this one, though, 'cause it's a good one! 5 Books from The Long and the Short of It:
Hot, hot and wow hot! One Night in Napa is packed with sensuality, emotion, and passion. A talented author, Ms. Boniface has given us a story that offers a little bit of everything and with her aptitude the story flows from one scene to the next. One Night in Napa is a classic story of two lovers defeating all the odds. And, boy! When the lights go out the fire between the two heats up.
This is the first story that I have read of Allie Boniface's and let me tell you -- I’m already searching her backlist and her future releases for more great reads. If her other stories are even close to as well-written and entertaining as this one, I'll be more than pleased.I can highly recommend this book to anyone who loves the odds of one night changing everything between two people. A mere twenty-four hours and your destiny is written.
In addition, One Night in Napa was in the running over the weekend for LASR's "Best Book of the Week" award, and as of late last night was running first in the polls. So thanks! to everyone who voted, and if you're an ebook reader who hasn't yet picked up One Night in Napa, maybe you'll want to give it a try...
Friday, September 25, 2009
Friday Fun Facts
"Drinking coffee for instant relaxation? That's like drinking alcohol for instant motor skills." ~Marc Price
I just liked this quote...
TGIF!!! Hope you're looking forward to your weekend as much as I am. If you're an author who writes romance with some spice, check out All Romance eBooks' "28 Days of Heart" submissions call. They'll be releasing a short story each day in February 2010 and are taking submissions now through October 31 from any author who has a book listed for sale on ARe (check with your publisher if you aren't sure).While all proceeds from the sales of theses stories will be donated to the American Heart Association, this is a great promo opportunity and a chance to get your name out there~
*****
And if you love spas, check out www.spaweek.com. Hundreds of spas across the country are offering great deals and discounts during the week of October 12-18. If you're a spa junkie - or if you've never tried one but always wanted to - this is a great way to check out what some of the elite ones offer at a fraction of the price!
*****
Finally, I saw the movie "Adam" last week and LOVED it. It's an independent film, the story of a 29-year old man with Asperger's Syndrome who's living in NYC and struggling to negotiate his first time falling in love, living without his father, finding a new job, etc. It was beautifully acted and filmed, and it absolutely captured the quirky characteristics of people with Asperger's (I have had a few students with Asperger's in the past). I think the movie might be on its way out of theaters, but if you have a chance, go see it. It was just wonderful!
I just liked this quote...
TGIF!!! Hope you're looking forward to your weekend as much as I am. If you're an author who writes romance with some spice, check out All Romance eBooks' "28 Days of Heart" submissions call. They'll be releasing a short story each day in February 2010 and are taking submissions now through October 31 from any author who has a book listed for sale on ARe (check with your publisher if you aren't sure).While all proceeds from the sales of theses stories will be donated to the American Heart Association, this is a great promo opportunity and a chance to get your name out there~
*****
And if you love spas, check out www.spaweek.com. Hundreds of spas across the country are offering great deals and discounts during the week of October 12-18. If you're a spa junkie - or if you've never tried one but always wanted to - this is a great way to check out what some of the elite ones offer at a fraction of the price!
*****
Finally, I saw the movie "Adam" last week and LOVED it. It's an independent film, the story of a 29-year old man with Asperger's Syndrome who's living in NYC and struggling to negotiate his first time falling in love, living without his father, finding a new job, etc. It was beautifully acted and filmed, and it absolutely captured the quirky characteristics of people with Asperger's (I have had a few students with Asperger's in the past). I think the movie might be on its way out of theaters, but if you have a chance, go see it. It was just wonderful!
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
A Vacation from Writers' Wednesday
"Teaching is the profession that teaches all other professions." ~Anonymous
No authors to feature today...
Instead, here's a few tidbits of information, both from the writing world and my own personal little corner:
Literary agent Donald Maass puts up a bimonthly feature on his website called "What We're Looking for this Month." For September, interestingly enough, it's authors who have submitted work to the agency in the past and been turned down. Well, that's not *all* they're looking for, of course, and his discussion is a little tongue-in-cheek. But it's worth a read, here.
*****
My local writing group, Hudson Valley RWA, is currently accepting entries for our Hook, Line and Sinker contest. Test out the strength of your first three manuscript pages -- finalists get a read by Harlequin Senior Editor Brenda Chin! Find out more here.
*****
And in unrelated news, I had a pleasant surprise earlier this week in my other life -- the full-time teaching one that pays the bills -- a letter in my mailbox telling me I'm receiving a teaching award from Boston College. One of my former students is a senior in the School of Education there and apparently wrote a letter nominating me for the award. Pretty neat! I'll be going to a luncheon there in October as part of an Education Symposium.
Ah, the idealistic me thinks maybe she can change the world after all...
No authors to feature today...
Instead, here's a few tidbits of information, both from the writing world and my own personal little corner:
Literary agent Donald Maass puts up a bimonthly feature on his website called "What We're Looking for this Month." For September, interestingly enough, it's authors who have submitted work to the agency in the past and been turned down. Well, that's not *all* they're looking for, of course, and his discussion is a little tongue-in-cheek. But it's worth a read, here.
*****
My local writing group, Hudson Valley RWA, is currently accepting entries for our Hook, Line and Sinker contest. Test out the strength of your first three manuscript pages -- finalists get a read by Harlequin Senior Editor Brenda Chin! Find out more here.
*****
And in unrelated news, I had a pleasant surprise earlier this week in my other life -- the full-time teaching one that pays the bills -- a letter in my mailbox telling me I'm receiving a teaching award from Boston College. One of my former students is a senior in the School of Education there and apparently wrote a letter nominating me for the award. Pretty neat! I'll be going to a luncheon there in October as part of an Education Symposium.
Ah, the idealistic me thinks maybe she can change the world after all...
Monday, September 21, 2009
Monday Mentionables
"Television is an invention that permits you to be entertained in your living room by people you wouldn't have in your home." ~David Frost
Hi there! Hope your week is off to a good start. Did anyone watch the Emmys last night? Let's talk about fall TV, since 'tis the season for new shows and new episodes of favorites. Which ones am I excited to see start up again?
Fringe - love the crazy sci fi concepts and love Joshua Jackson and Anna Torv (John Noble too as the crazy father/doctor).
Life - I think Damian Lewis as the lead character is just terrific, with his quirky personality and intense yet sexy persona. Can't wait to see where they take the love interest with his co-detective Reese, either!
Lost - yes, I'll stick with it for another season. I'm too far in now to quit!
Survivor - the only reality TV show hubby and I watch religiously.
So You Think You Can Dance - I watch this one on my own, but I do love the talent that emerges!
The Mentalist - hubby and I discovered this through reruns over the summer. Love - love - love Simon Baker as the weirdly intuitive police agent who also is easy on the eyes!
Flashforward - this is a new one, by the creators of Lost: the entire world loses consciousness for 2 minutes and 17 seconds, during which everyone flashes forward 6 months to see their fates. Sounds like an interesting concept, and it has good buzz right now.
What about you - what television shows are you looking forward to seeing this fall?
Hi there! Hope your week is off to a good start. Did anyone watch the Emmys last night? Let's talk about fall TV, since 'tis the season for new shows and new episodes of favorites. Which ones am I excited to see start up again?
Fringe - love the crazy sci fi concepts and love Joshua Jackson and Anna Torv (John Noble too as the crazy father/doctor).
Life - I think Damian Lewis as the lead character is just terrific, with his quirky personality and intense yet sexy persona. Can't wait to see where they take the love interest with his co-detective Reese, either!
Lost - yes, I'll stick with it for another season. I'm too far in now to quit!
Survivor - the only reality TV show hubby and I watch religiously.
So You Think You Can Dance - I watch this one on my own, but I do love the talent that emerges!
The Mentalist - hubby and I discovered this through reruns over the summer. Love - love - love Simon Baker as the weirdly intuitive police agent who also is easy on the eyes!
Flashforward - this is a new one, by the creators of Lost: the entire world loses consciousness for 2 minutes and 17 seconds, during which everyone flashes forward 6 months to see their fates. Sounds like an interesting concept, and it has good buzz right now.
What about you - what television shows are you looking forward to seeing this fall?
Friday, September 18, 2009
Friday Fun Facts
"Work every day. No matter what has happened the day or night before, get up and bite on the nail." ~Ernest Hemingway
First things first: I'll be at the Pine Bush Harvest Festival (a very cute craft/street fair) in one of our local towns tomorrow between 10 and 3. If you're local, stop by and say hello! (and maybe pick up a book or two...the holidays are coming, so think of gifts!)
*****
Good news: my editor and I are closer to liking the cover art for Summer's Song! The third version has much more heat between the hero and heroine than the earlier versions. And fewer clothes, too! :) Hope we have a cover soon I can share with you all.
*****
I'm 65K words into Entwined, and though I haven't written too much since school began, I really want to finish this revision by November 1st. There it is! An official date to aim for, set out in blogger-world, for virtual eyes to see. Now all you have to do is hold me to it!
Have a great weekend...
First things first: I'll be at the Pine Bush Harvest Festival (a very cute craft/street fair) in one of our local towns tomorrow between 10 and 3. If you're local, stop by and say hello! (and maybe pick up a book or two...the holidays are coming, so think of gifts!)
*****
Good news: my editor and I are closer to liking the cover art for Summer's Song! The third version has much more heat between the hero and heroine than the earlier versions. And fewer clothes, too! :) Hope we have a cover soon I can share with you all.
*****
I'm 65K words into Entwined, and though I haven't written too much since school began, I really want to finish this revision by November 1st. There it is! An official date to aim for, set out in blogger-world, for virtual eyes to see. Now all you have to do is hold me to it!
Have a great weekend...
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Writers' Wednesday: An Interview with Linda Weaver-Clarke
Welcome to another Writers' Wednesday! Today I'm featuring author Linda Weaver-Clarke. Linda travels throughout the United States, teaching and encouraging others to turn their family history and autobiography into a variety of interesting stories. She is the author of the historical fiction series, A Family Saga in Bear Lake, Idaho which includes the following novels: Melinda and the Wild West - a semi-finalist for the Reviewers Choice Award 2007, Edith and the Mysterious Stranger, Jenny’s Dream, David and the Bear Lake Monster, and Elena, Woman of Courage.
Linda, what exactly do you teach in your Family Legacy Workshops?
I teach people how to take their family history or their own autobiography and turn it into interesting stories. It’s important to teach our children their heritage. Each of us has a story from our ancestors to tell. If these stories are unwritten, then they’ll be lost forever. Our children need to be proud of their ancestors. Leon Garfield said: “The historian, if honest, gives us a photograph; the storyteller gives us a painting.” What I’m teaching people to do is how to paint their stories, to be the storyteller. To read samples of my ancestor’s stories, you can visit my website at www.lindaweaverclarke.com
.What do you encourage people to research?
The area your ancestors settled and the time period. First, find out everything you can about the area to both educate your readers and to make the setting feel real. If possible, go to the area you want to write about, walk around, find out where your ancestors lived, went to school, and played. If you can’t go there in person, then do research and find pictures of that area.
Why do you put true family and ancestral experiences in your novels, and can you give us a few examples?I love inserting real experiences into my novels. It brings a story to life. To me, the experiences of my family and ancestors have always intrigued me. In my family saga series, I have set my story in Bear Lake Valley in Idaho…the place that my ancestors settled in 1863.
In “Melinda and the Wild West,” I inserted an experience that happened to my dad. When he was young, his father asked him to bury the skunks that he shot because they were getting into the chicken coop. Before my dad buried them, he drained their scent glands into a bottle. He called it “skunk oil.” Then he took it to school to show his friends. While explaining how he had done it, he must have gotten a little too excited because he accidentally dropped the bottle and it splattered on the floor. The scent of concentrated skunk oil permeated the room with a stench that was indescribable. Everyone ran out of the school as fast as their little legs would go. And the teacher followed close behind. They let school out so it could be cleaned up. My father said that he was a hero for one day because he got school out for his classmates. This novel eventually won an award as one of the semi-finalists for the “Reviewers Choice Award 2007.”
What a great example! Do you put any of your own experiences into your books?
Yes. “Jenny’s Dream” was inspired by events that happened to me in my youth. I learned that forgiveness was essential for true happiness and well-being, and that is why I felt this story needed to be told. Jenny must learn to forgive and put her past behind her. Of course, I add a little love story, but it’s not the complete focus of this novel. When she realizes that her kindred friend means more to her than she thought, then she has to make a decision whether to follow her dream or matters of the heart. This story is about accomplishing one’s dreams and the miracle of forgiveness.
Can each of your books be read separately or do you have to read them in order since they’re a series?
Each story has its own plot and can be read separately, but the main characters grow up. In the first book, “Melinda and the Wild West,” this book is about how Gilbert and Melinda get together.
What is the synopsis of your new book, “David and the Bear Lake Monster”?
Deep-rooted legends, long family traditions, and a few mysterious events! David quickly becomes one with the town and its folk and wonders why they believe in this Bear Lake Monster. It just has to be a myth. While visiting the Roberts family, he finds himself entranced with one very special lady and ends up defending her honor several times. Sarah isn’t like the average woman. This beautiful and dainty lady has a disability that no one seems to notice. He finds out that Sarah has gone through more trials than the average person. She teaches him the importance of not dwelling on the past and how to love life. After a few teases, tricks, and mischievous deeds, David begins to overcome his troubles, but will it be too late? Will he lose the one woman he adores? And how about the Bear Lake Monster? Does it really exist?
What about this Bear Lake Monster? Does it really exist?
The mystery of the Bear Lake Monster has been an exciting part of Idaho history ever since the early pioneers arrived in 1863. The legend of the Bear Lake Monster made life a little more exciting for the pioneers. Some people claimed to have seen it and gave descriptions of it.
Throughout the years, no one has ever disproved the Bear Lake Monster. A bunch of scientists tried to discredit the monster and said it was a huge codfish that was shipped in from the East but could not prove this theory. Does the Bear Lake Monster exist? Whatever conclusion is drawn, the legend still lives on and brings a great deal of mystery and excitement to the community.
When is the last book in this series going to be released and what is it about?
“Elena, Woman of Courage” is the last in this series and should be released soon. It’s set in 1925. It was a blast to research. I found out about words that I didn’t even know such as: Cat’s pajamas! Ah, horsefeathers! Attaboy! Baloney! You slay me! When referring to a woman, they used doll, tomato, and bearcat. When a person was in love, they were goofy. If a person was a fool, they were a sap. And when a woman wasn’t in the mood for kissing or romance, she would say, “The bank’s closed.” I was able to use all these words and much more in my book. The language was great!
It’s about a “Happy-go-lucky Bachelor” that is completely fascinated with a woman doctor: Elena Yeates. Of course, women weren’t encouraged to go to college back then, let alone become a doctor, and this fascinates him to no end. With the 1920’s rise of women’s rights, this novel gives you great insight at the struggles women had to go through, all the while watching a young love blossom! You can read an excerpt from each of my books at http://www.lindaweaverclarke.com/samplechapters.html.
Readers, thanks for being here today. To learn more about Linda, visit her blog at http://lindaweaverclarke.blogspot.com.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Monday Mentionables
OK readers, today's post is culled directly from the pages of the October 2009 Writer's Digest. And if you're a writer and you're not getting this magazine, you're missing out. It has great articles and advice for writers in all genres and at all steps of their writing journey. One of the best investments for very little $$, I assure you.
"The Passion for Prose," by the illustrious literary agent Donald Maass has some great advice for writers: make sure there is passion on the page, in every scene. He believes that passion in one's story is what separates the mediocre stories from the truly great ones. My favorite piece of advice here: "...nothing in a story is meaningful until its meaning is clear to a character...include not what a particular plot turn means in the grand scheme of things, but instead what it means to your POV character...illuminate not what has changed, but how [the character] has changed."
By the way, I haven't read his writing guide Writing the Breakout Novel, but I know many, many people recommend it highly. If you've read it, what's your take?
*****
Writer's Digest runs a contest each year to recognize writers' websites that are designed and maintained solely by the authors themselves. This year's top 3 were www.brianwask.com, www.freelance-foodie.com, and www.ezrapoundcake.com.
Know someone you'd like to nominate for the 2010 contest? Send an email to writersdigest@fwmedia.com with "Best Writer's Website" as the subject line. And yes, you can nominate yourself!
*****
Finally, a couple of writing prompts for any of you who might need a little creative nudge:
1. Pick a color, make that your title, and write a poem inspired by that color.
2. Seven people board a small boat for a tour of the islands, but when the boat returns to the dock, only six people remain on board...
*****
There are also great articles in this month's Writer's Digest about online writing communities, interviews with best-selling authors like Lee Child and Jennifer Crusie, and advice on getting the most out of writers' conferences. I defiintely recommend picking up a copy at your local bookstore if you're interested!
"The Passion for Prose," by the illustrious literary agent Donald Maass has some great advice for writers: make sure there is passion on the page, in every scene. He believes that passion in one's story is what separates the mediocre stories from the truly great ones. My favorite piece of advice here: "...nothing in a story is meaningful until its meaning is clear to a character...include not what a particular plot turn means in the grand scheme of things, but instead what it means to your POV character...illuminate not what has changed, but how [the character] has changed."
By the way, I haven't read his writing guide Writing the Breakout Novel, but I know many, many people recommend it highly. If you've read it, what's your take?
*****
Writer's Digest runs a contest each year to recognize writers' websites that are designed and maintained solely by the authors themselves. This year's top 3 were www.brianwask.com, www.freelance-foodie.com, and www.ezrapoundcake.com.
Know someone you'd like to nominate for the 2010 contest? Send an email to writersdigest@fwmedia.com with "Best Writer's Website" as the subject line. And yes, you can nominate yourself!
*****
Finally, a couple of writing prompts for any of you who might need a little creative nudge:
1. Pick a color, make that your title, and write a poem inspired by that color.
2. Seven people board a small boat for a tour of the islands, but when the boat returns to the dock, only six people remain on board...
*****
There are also great articles in this month's Writer's Digest about online writing communities, interviews with best-selling authors like Lee Child and Jennifer Crusie, and advice on getting the most out of writers' conferences. I defiintely recommend picking up a copy at your local bookstore if you're interested!
Friday, September 11, 2009
A Day of Memory
"A small sorrow distracts; a great one makes us collected." ~Richter
Today I'm asking that all who visit my blog take a moment to remember September 11, 2001. Years pass and memories fade, both for good and for bad, but I think it's important to think back on just how horrific that day was, and everything that resulted from it. No political comments, please -- there's a lot that has been said, and could still be said, and not everything that our country did before or after that day was noble.
But we lost so much that day, and to all those people who became victims on September 11, we owe at least a moment of dignified silence to honor their lives. We miss you and try our best to live on in ways that make this country and this world a better place.
Wednesday, September 09, 2009
Writers' Wednesday: An Interview with Susie Schade-Brewer
Welcome to Writers' Wednesday! Today I'm chatting with Susie Schade-Brewer. Enjoy!
Can you tell us a little about your background, Susie?
I was born and raised in Kansas. At 7 years of age, my family left city life and moved to the country. From that point forward until the day he died, my father, Ernest Schade, was a farmer. During the sweltering Kansas summers, he tilled and planted his acres. My mother, Hazel, was his devoted helpmate, and together they raised 8 children. I was the oldest of the 4 girls. Every one of us was expected to work the fields alongside my parents. I now reside in Adrian Missouri, surrounded on all sides by green fields and woods thick with pines and hedge trees. I live with one son and my two pug dogs, Rosie and Sebastian.
When did you first begin writing? Was there an event or moment in your life that triggered your desire to write?
My Grandmother Schade died when I was pretty young. But it was she who first captivated me with tales of adventure and intrigue along the trails west. She herself and her family had traveled overland in a covered wagon when she was young. Though she was born in the 1890’s and past the time of the major western migration, she had not only her own stories to pass on, but those of family members who had lived during that time.
I have distinct memories of sitting on her lap when I was about 5 or 6, staring out the window beside her rocking chair, in my mind visualizing the places where her stories transported me. The excitement behind those stories inspired my first love of that exciting time in our country’s history.
Life, marriage and children then kind of thwarted my writing goals for a while. Once I hit 50, though - and especially after the death of Princess Diana - I figured if I didn’t get to it, it may not ever happen. Life is short and uncertain. That is when I began the novel, The Sacrifice of the Sage Hen. The actual writing of the story took only 4 months, but the editing process took another 6 years. I had had no formal training, and I learned as I went.
Tell us about your latest writing project or published title!
In March of this year, my novel The Sacrifice of the Sage Hen was released. Since then, two things seem to occupy most of my time – marketing the book, and running my professional writing service (http://www.tpwwritingservices.com/). The resume writing and copywriting that I do for the writing service takes up quite a bit of time. But I still make time to work on my second novel, which will be a sequel of the first. It will center more around the day-to-day life and hardships the pioneers faced while traveling the 2,000 miles of trail between Independence, Missouri and the Willamette Valley in Oregon.
I also have a blog, http://www.onewriter, having to do with anything writing or western. I invite everyone to visit the site and join as a follower and get some lively discussions going. I t gets lonely out here in the Missouri rurals!
Sounds as though writing is definitely keeping you busy! What do you find most difficult about writing? What do you find most exciting or rewarding?
Sometimes I find the pressures of everyday living deplete/stifle the creative spirit within me. It is frustrating knowing how much I want to sit down and let the words flow but they just don’t come, or if they do, I find them disgustingly novice. To find inspiration, I sometimes take a day off from the office work, go to a park and sit and read. It relaxes me and fills me with motivation, and soon the words are flowing once again. It sounds silly, but it is one of the greatest contentments I know.
Do you ever suffer from writer's block? If so, what do you do about it?
Absolutely. I think everyone does at some point. Life is full these days, and our thinking processes become fragmented and thwarted. However, I make myself write each and every day. I suppose having a writing business makes that goal easier to accomplish. Article writing, resume writing, copywriting – all are things I enjoy, and must be done frequently. The advantage is that keeping to the everyday grind keeps one’s mind clicking and on track. Another thing – I like going for a long car ride down a lonely country road, enjoying the scenery, taking it all in. All the better if I stumble upon an old cemetery along the way with lots of interesting epitaphs. That really gets the creative juices flowing.
Describe your writing space...
I work out of my office in my country home. My brain is one that comes to a complete and grinding halt when things are not organized or where I can find them. Still, the stacks of papers for ongoing projects, some that need to be filed (when I have a minute), and papers I have every intention of reading cover every inch of my desk. Exactly what color is the top of my desk again? Just kidding. It’s not really THAT bad!
Anything else you’d like to mention?
My newest venture, one I am very excited about, involves writing articles – lots and lots of them – having to do with ‘All Things Western’, the life and circumstances of both contemporary and historical western life. My website – http://www.mustangingthewest.com/, will be chock full of everything western. Mustangs & all about horses – longhorn cattle – western apparel (there will even be a store) – tack– Native Americans -- turquoise and silver jewelry –– western dance & music - historical fiction books and reviews – the best dude ranches and bed & breakfasts in the country – a section called ‘The Cowboy’s Bunkhouse’ - birds & butterflies - you name it, it will eventually show up there. This is a brand new venture for me, and I am working hard – albeit jubilantly – to get it up and running soon. I hope everyone will visit and share their thoughts and ideas with me. My writer’s website is http://www.schade-brewer.com/. Please come visit me there, too.
Susie, thank you so much for being here today. Readers, make sure to stop by and visit her websites. She's one busy lady!
Monday, September 07, 2009
Monday Mentionables
"Imagine no possesions, I wonder if you can, No need for greed or hunger, A brotherhood of man. Imagine all the people Sharing all the world." ~John Lennon
Oh my gosh! I totally forgot to tell you what the September Blog Giveaway prize is going to be! To one lucky commenter this month, I'll send a copy of Dead Until Dark, the first in the Sookie Stackhouse series by Charlaine Harris (I blogged about it here) along with a couple other books tossed in for good measure, from my stash of books I've gotten from a few of the author tours I've hosted. Sound good?
*****
Saw the movie "Taking Woodstock" last night - mostly because, well, it's the 40th anniversary of the event, and because I live less than an hour from the original site. It was pretty good - a little fragmented, but I suppose the whole Woodstock experience was, so...
I thought the movie did a good job showing the remoteness of Sullivan County, where it took place, and how this incredible influx of people to the small town was completely overwhelming and under-anticipated. I didn't realize they actually shut down the New York State Thruway because of traffic jams from the city all the way up to the concert site!! There's a lot of interesting characters, too, well-acted, from the people who came in to plan the event to the locals themselves. Liev Schreiber plays a war vet who dresses in drag -- he's terrific. So is Emile Hirsch, who plays a messed-up Vietnam vet dealing with this return to the States. I liked the central character, too, the young guy who arranged for the concert to come to his town who's conflicted about being there at all (when he could be either in NYC or San Francisco), and his crochety parents who are running one of the Jewish hotels in the Catskills.
I heard the movie didn't get great reviews, but I liked it, overall. Anyone else see it, or planning to?
Oh my gosh! I totally forgot to tell you what the September Blog Giveaway prize is going to be! To one lucky commenter this month, I'll send a copy of Dead Until Dark, the first in the Sookie Stackhouse series by Charlaine Harris (I blogged about it here) along with a couple other books tossed in for good measure, from my stash of books I've gotten from a few of the author tours I've hosted. Sound good?
*****
Saw the movie "Taking Woodstock" last night - mostly because, well, it's the 40th anniversary of the event, and because I live less than an hour from the original site. It was pretty good - a little fragmented, but I suppose the whole Woodstock experience was, so...
I thought the movie did a good job showing the remoteness of Sullivan County, where it took place, and how this incredible influx of people to the small town was completely overwhelming and under-anticipated. I didn't realize they actually shut down the New York State Thruway because of traffic jams from the city all the way up to the concert site!! There's a lot of interesting characters, too, well-acted, from the people who came in to plan the event to the locals themselves. Liev Schreiber plays a war vet who dresses in drag -- he's terrific. So is Emile Hirsch, who plays a messed-up Vietnam vet dealing with this return to the States. I liked the central character, too, the young guy who arranged for the concert to come to his town who's conflicted about being there at all (when he could be either in NYC or San Francisco), and his crochety parents who are running one of the Jewish hotels in the Catskills.
I heard the movie didn't get great reviews, but I liked it, overall. Anyone else see it, or planning to?
Friday, September 04, 2009
Friday Fun Facts
Hi, folks! A few tidbits from the writing world to share today:
If you write anything that is electronically published, there's a good chance you may see it on a site someday that you didn't intend or approve. Unfortunately, this happens A LOT for ebook authors. Certain sites will offer a book as a "free download" for anyone, once they have the file. This basically steals your royalties/publisher's profits and, whenever possible, you should directly address the site where your work appears illegally. If you need to contact a site who's offering your work in violation of your copyright/your permission, here's a sample "Cease and Desist" Letter to use.
*****
Agent Nancy Yost left the Lowenstein-Yost Agency and has formed her own company, Nancy Yost Literary Agency. You can reach her at Nancy@nyliterary.com.
*****
I got my first draft of a cover for Summer's Song -- though both my editor and I are asking for some changes, so no, it's not ready for appoval or publication yet. But the official blurb is! Want to read it?
What if everything you knew about your life turns out to be...wrong?
Ten years after leaving home, the last thing Summer Thompson expects is to inherit her father's half-renovated mansion. And the last thing she wants is to face the memories of the night her brother died - sketchy as they may be. Now a San Francisco museum curator, she plans to stay east just long enough to settle the estate and get rid of the house. Until she finds it occupied by a hunky handyman who's strangely reluctant to talk about his past.
Damian Knight has something to hide: his mother and sister from a brutal stalker. They've found a measure of peace and carefully guarded security in Pine Point. Yet when the lonely, haunted Summer steals his heart, he finds himself opening up to her in ways he should never risk. Especially to a woman who's planning to return to the west coast - after selling their refuge out from under them.
Summer's mounting flashbacks leave her confused - and more determined than ever to find out the truth about her brother's death. But in a small town full of powerful secrets, confronting the past could cost her the man she loves. Even her life.
If you write anything that is electronically published, there's a good chance you may see it on a site someday that you didn't intend or approve. Unfortunately, this happens A LOT for ebook authors. Certain sites will offer a book as a "free download" for anyone, once they have the file. This basically steals your royalties/publisher's profits and, whenever possible, you should directly address the site where your work appears illegally. If you need to contact a site who's offering your work in violation of your copyright/your permission, here's a sample "Cease and Desist" Letter to use.
*****
Agent Nancy Yost left the Lowenstein-Yost Agency and has formed her own company, Nancy Yost Literary Agency. You can reach her at Nancy@nyliterary.com.
*****
I got my first draft of a cover for Summer's Song -- though both my editor and I are asking for some changes, so no, it's not ready for appoval or publication yet. But the official blurb is! Want to read it?
What if everything you knew about your life turns out to be...wrong?
Ten years after leaving home, the last thing Summer Thompson expects is to inherit her father's half-renovated mansion. And the last thing she wants is to face the memories of the night her brother died - sketchy as they may be. Now a San Francisco museum curator, she plans to stay east just long enough to settle the estate and get rid of the house. Until she finds it occupied by a hunky handyman who's strangely reluctant to talk about his past.
Damian Knight has something to hide: his mother and sister from a brutal stalker. They've found a measure of peace and carefully guarded security in Pine Point. Yet when the lonely, haunted Summer steals his heart, he finds himself opening up to her in ways he should never risk. Especially to a woman who's planning to return to the west coast - after selling their refuge out from under them.
Summer's mounting flashbacks leave her confused - and more determined than ever to find out the truth about her brother's death. But in a small town full of powerful secrets, confronting the past could cost her the man she loves. Even her life.
Wednesday, September 02, 2009
Writers' Wednesday: An Interview with Nicholas Gagnier
Welcome back! First things first: (drummm rollllll...)...the winner of my blog giveaway contest was...
Mary Ricksen!!
Congrats!! Mary, email me at allieb@allieboniface.com and let me know which you'd like: a download of One Night in Napa, a download of Diane Craver's new novel Whitney in Charge, or a print copy of The Write Ingredients.
Want to know what I'll be giving away in September to one lucky commenter? Come on back Friday to find out!
***
And now on with the important things, an interview with today's featured author, Nicholas Gagnier. Nick is a fellow writer, unpublished right now, who hangs out at the Absolute Write forums, which is where I met him. Enjoy his interview!
Welcome, Nick! Can you tell us a little about your background?
I was born in Saskatchewan, on Nov 27/85 to an professional newspaper editor and a business executive. My parents divorced when I was young and I bounced between homes for a while before settling in Ottawa. I have a great interest in television serials, where character development runs amok and besides reading, has been one of my greatest sources of inspiration. Writing has been my life since I was 14 or 15, and when I was 18, I tried to write a novel. That failed, and I tried again, failed again. But all that led to learning how to craft a strong story and learn from my mistakes. 2
Tell us about your latest writing project or published title.
Harbour City Story...The book is my first that I've completed, and the first of two parts. I am currently writing the second and concluding novel, called Harbour. The star of the novel is undoubtedly the city itself. Harbour City is a New-York like environment, seven boroughs of segregated culture. City officials take second jobs informing organized crime and the port is under criminal control. Corruption runs deep and wide. In the 1990’s, mass civil protests led to the deconstruction of the modern day Mafia, through a series of trials and undercover operations. When the dust settled, one family was left standing, to which all the other families flocked. There, the disarrayed mob re-organized into a giant crew, led by Don Alberto Rossi. The Mafia was quarantined to one of the boroughs, where there was no police presence, and no protection for the citizenry.
After ten years of peace, Rossi is dying, and has nominated his grandson Michael as his heir to the throne. As the Don slips further, Michael plans a violent take-over to reclaim his family’s place in the city forefront. Harbour City is being poisoned by terror once again.
One morning, Jackie Eckhart awakens in an alleyway, covered in blood with a blank memory. When a crooked detective frames him for murder, Jackie is forced to confront his missing past. With his kids in foster homes to boot, he re-connects with an old flame; returns to the employment of Greek smuggling crew, and makes hard choices. Old friends turn on him, and new enemies emerge. As Michael becomes consumed by his newfound power, Jackie finds himself in the most powerless position of all.
Sounds really intriguing! Tell us, how do you go about developing your characters?
Jackie actually started out years ago as a man without a memory. Think of it partially as my take on the Bourne Identity scenario, although unlike Jason Bourne, Jackie Eckhart is not far from home. He has kids, a dead wife, and a cadre of cohorts, many of which are hardly noble themselves. As the story developed, I think Jackie transcended that stereotypical amnesiac. The supporting characters were all born from him, and I tried to give them all their own journey. Of course, the book has a high body count, and sometime journies die with the character. And the city is also a major character as well. But ultimately, everything spawns from the central character.
What advice would you give to new writers just starting out?
Giving up is the only fatal mistake you can ever make. No matter how many queries are rejected, no matter how many days you spend looking at something you wrote and questioning it. Don't give up.
What kinds of books do you like to read? Who is your favorite author?
Three writers I've drawn a lot of inspiration from are Stephen King, Robert Ludlum, and Phillip Carlo. The first two I hold in the highest regards as fictional storytellers, especially Mr. King. Phillip Carlo is an investigation journalist for the New York Times, and his books are just fantastic in the realm of non-fiction. As far as profiling true-crime, he is just fantastic.
How do you balance writing with the rest of your life?
It's definitely a juggling act. I work for a video games retailer five days a week, and I'm going back to college in the fall, so my writing is definitely going to slow to a crawl. I've allotted a year to write Harbour, but HCS initally took three months to complete. Once the life frees up more, I could probably write two or three books a year.
What is your favorite movie? Did it inspire your writing in any way?
Like I said before. The TV serials are awesome for coming up with themes and character development. It's not a full list but four of the billion series I watch are "24," "Battlestar Galactica," "Lost" and "The Sopranos". They have definitely taught me a lot.
Nick, I'm so glad readers got to see a glimpse at the life of a writer in the trenches...thank you so much for being here today!
Mary Ricksen!!
Congrats!! Mary, email me at allieb@allieboniface.com and let me know which you'd like: a download of One Night in Napa, a download of Diane Craver's new novel Whitney in Charge, or a print copy of The Write Ingredients.
Want to know what I'll be giving away in September to one lucky commenter? Come on back Friday to find out!
***
And now on with the important things, an interview with today's featured author, Nicholas Gagnier. Nick is a fellow writer, unpublished right now, who hangs out at the Absolute Write forums, which is where I met him. Enjoy his interview!
Welcome, Nick! Can you tell us a little about your background?
I was born in Saskatchewan, on Nov 27/85 to an professional newspaper editor and a business executive. My parents divorced when I was young and I bounced between homes for a while before settling in Ottawa. I have a great interest in television serials, where character development runs amok and besides reading, has been one of my greatest sources of inspiration. Writing has been my life since I was 14 or 15, and when I was 18, I tried to write a novel. That failed, and I tried again, failed again. But all that led to learning how to craft a strong story and learn from my mistakes. 2
Tell us about your latest writing project or published title.
Harbour City Story...The book is my first that I've completed, and the first of two parts. I am currently writing the second and concluding novel, called Harbour. The star of the novel is undoubtedly the city itself. Harbour City is a New-York like environment, seven boroughs of segregated culture. City officials take second jobs informing organized crime and the port is under criminal control. Corruption runs deep and wide. In the 1990’s, mass civil protests led to the deconstruction of the modern day Mafia, through a series of trials and undercover operations. When the dust settled, one family was left standing, to which all the other families flocked. There, the disarrayed mob re-organized into a giant crew, led by Don Alberto Rossi. The Mafia was quarantined to one of the boroughs, where there was no police presence, and no protection for the citizenry.
After ten years of peace, Rossi is dying, and has nominated his grandson Michael as his heir to the throne. As the Don slips further, Michael plans a violent take-over to reclaim his family’s place in the city forefront. Harbour City is being poisoned by terror once again.
One morning, Jackie Eckhart awakens in an alleyway, covered in blood with a blank memory. When a crooked detective frames him for murder, Jackie is forced to confront his missing past. With his kids in foster homes to boot, he re-connects with an old flame; returns to the employment of Greek smuggling crew, and makes hard choices. Old friends turn on him, and new enemies emerge. As Michael becomes consumed by his newfound power, Jackie finds himself in the most powerless position of all.
Sounds really intriguing! Tell us, how do you go about developing your characters?
Jackie actually started out years ago as a man without a memory. Think of it partially as my take on the Bourne Identity scenario, although unlike Jason Bourne, Jackie Eckhart is not far from home. He has kids, a dead wife, and a cadre of cohorts, many of which are hardly noble themselves. As the story developed, I think Jackie transcended that stereotypical amnesiac. The supporting characters were all born from him, and I tried to give them all their own journey. Of course, the book has a high body count, and sometime journies die with the character. And the city is also a major character as well. But ultimately, everything spawns from the central character.
What advice would you give to new writers just starting out?
Giving up is the only fatal mistake you can ever make. No matter how many queries are rejected, no matter how many days you spend looking at something you wrote and questioning it. Don't give up.
What kinds of books do you like to read? Who is your favorite author?
Three writers I've drawn a lot of inspiration from are Stephen King, Robert Ludlum, and Phillip Carlo. The first two I hold in the highest regards as fictional storytellers, especially Mr. King. Phillip Carlo is an investigation journalist for the New York Times, and his books are just fantastic in the realm of non-fiction. As far as profiling true-crime, he is just fantastic.
How do you balance writing with the rest of your life?
It's definitely a juggling act. I work for a video games retailer five days a week, and I'm going back to college in the fall, so my writing is definitely going to slow to a crawl. I've allotted a year to write Harbour, but HCS initally took three months to complete. Once the life frees up more, I could probably write two or three books a year.
What is your favorite movie? Did it inspire your writing in any way?
Like I said before. The TV serials are awesome for coming up with themes and character development. It's not a full list but four of the billion series I watch are "24," "Battlestar Galactica," "Lost" and "The Sopranos". They have definitely taught me a lot.
Nick, I'm so glad readers got to see a glimpse at the life of a writer in the trenches...thank you so much for being here today!
Monday, August 31, 2009
Monday Mentionables
"The coroner will find ink in my veins and blood on my typewriter keys." ~C. Astrid Weber
Good morning!! It's the last day of the month, which means tomorrow I'll be drawing the name of one commenter from the month of August as the winner of (your choice) either a download of Diane Craver's brand new release Whitney in Charge, a download of my newest release One Night in Napa, or a print copy of The Write Ingredients, a cookbook of yummy recipes collected and organized by Lori Foster and featuring Samhain authors.
Check back here on Wednesday to find out if you're a winner!
*****
Well, the BIGGGGG mentionable for today is that school starts again for me. I have mixed feelings about this. I do enjoy teaching, and I look forward to meeting a brand new group of students. But it's so demanding and time-consuming, and I know that once we start up again, things will be a blur until at least December. It will be tough to find time to write, as well, and that's always a downside.
Speaking of writing, I finished my line edits for Summer's Song last week, which means I'm officially between projects and need to figure out what comes next. The good thing is that I will have 2 print books coming out in 2010, so that gives me a little bit of breathing time before I need to submit something else.
*****
Update on my book signing over the weekend: I was in a Waldenbooks on a Saturday afternoon and did sell 8 books (a combination of all 3 that are currently out) -- really not too bad. Better than that, though, the manager of this particular bookstore loves having authors in and has already told me that whenever I have a new book released, she'll hold a signing for me. Yay!
And finally, the cutest story from my signing was this college kid who stopped by because he needed to get a novel to read and analyze for his college writing class. He ended up buying One Night in Memphis and said, "Hey, I think if it's by a local author my professor should give me extra credit, right?" Then I told him he was more than happy to email me any questions about the book and/or I'd give him a quote for his paper. I thought he'd about pass out from excitement at that point :) How cool is that??!?
Good morning!! It's the last day of the month, which means tomorrow I'll be drawing the name of one commenter from the month of August as the winner of (your choice) either a download of Diane Craver's brand new release Whitney in Charge, a download of my newest release One Night in Napa, or a print copy of The Write Ingredients, a cookbook of yummy recipes collected and organized by Lori Foster and featuring Samhain authors.
Check back here on Wednesday to find out if you're a winner!
*****
Well, the BIGGGGG mentionable for today is that school starts again for me. I have mixed feelings about this. I do enjoy teaching, and I look forward to meeting a brand new group of students. But it's so demanding and time-consuming, and I know that once we start up again, things will be a blur until at least December. It will be tough to find time to write, as well, and that's always a downside.
Speaking of writing, I finished my line edits for Summer's Song last week, which means I'm officially between projects and need to figure out what comes next. The good thing is that I will have 2 print books coming out in 2010, so that gives me a little bit of breathing time before I need to submit something else.
*****
Update on my book signing over the weekend: I was in a Waldenbooks on a Saturday afternoon and did sell 8 books (a combination of all 3 that are currently out) -- really not too bad. Better than that, though, the manager of this particular bookstore loves having authors in and has already told me that whenever I have a new book released, she'll hold a signing for me. Yay!
And finally, the cutest story from my signing was this college kid who stopped by because he needed to get a novel to read and analyze for his college writing class. He ended up buying One Night in Memphis and said, "Hey, I think if it's by a local author my professor should give me extra credit, right?" Then I told him he was more than happy to email me any questions about the book and/or I'd give him a quote for his paper. I thought he'd about pass out from excitement at that point :) How cool is that??!?
Friday, August 28, 2009
Friday Fun Facts
"The vampires have always been metaphors for me. They've always been vehicles through which I can express things I have felt very, very deeply." ~Anne Rice
Sigh. Here I am at the last Friday of my summer vacation. Can't believe it's gone so fast! Anyway, 2 quick things to mention today:
1. I'll be doing a book signing at the Waldenbooks in the Oakdale Mall in Binghamton, NY, tomorrow ~ Saturday ~ from 1:00 - 4:00. If you're anywhere in the area, please stop by and say hello!
2. My September e-newsletter will be going out next week, so if you haven't signed up to receive, there's a place right over there on the sidebar where you can do so.
3. Finally, I read Dead Until Dark by Charlaine Harris over vacation and was surprised by how much I enjoyed it. I hadn't heard of her until this past spring, but many of you probably read her books or at least know that the hugely successful HBO series "True Blood" is based on them. I'm not really a vampire-genre reader, but I honestly had a hard time putting this book down. I think 2 big reasons were the constant action and conflict (the main character is a waitress who can read minds, and she meets/falls for a vampire who comes to her town just as some pretty brutal killings start occurring), and the voice of the first-person narrator, Sookie Stackhouse. Sookie's really well-written, and I admit I do like first-person because you get such a good sense of the person telling the story. Don't get me wrong, the other characters are well-developed too. It's an all-around good read, and I'll be picking up her next book in the series, definitely!
Have you read any of Charlaine Harris' books? Do you watch True Blood? What do you think?
Sigh. Here I am at the last Friday of my summer vacation. Can't believe it's gone so fast! Anyway, 2 quick things to mention today:
1. I'll be doing a book signing at the Waldenbooks in the Oakdale Mall in Binghamton, NY, tomorrow ~ Saturday ~ from 1:00 - 4:00. If you're anywhere in the area, please stop by and say hello!
2. My September e-newsletter will be going out next week, so if you haven't signed up to receive, there's a place right over there on the sidebar where you can do so.
3. Finally, I read Dead Until Dark by Charlaine Harris over vacation and was surprised by how much I enjoyed it. I hadn't heard of her until this past spring, but many of you probably read her books or at least know that the hugely successful HBO series "True Blood" is based on them. I'm not really a vampire-genre reader, but I honestly had a hard time putting this book down. I think 2 big reasons were the constant action and conflict (the main character is a waitress who can read minds, and she meets/falls for a vampire who comes to her town just as some pretty brutal killings start occurring), and the voice of the first-person narrator, Sookie Stackhouse. Sookie's really well-written, and I admit I do like first-person because you get such a good sense of the person telling the story. Don't get me wrong, the other characters are well-developed too. It's an all-around good read, and I'll be picking up her next book in the series, definitely!
Have you read any of Charlaine Harris' books? Do you watch True Blood? What do you think?
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Writers' Wednesday: An Interview with...Yours Truly
"Thank your readers and the critics who praise you, and then ignore them. Write for the most intelligent, wittiest, wisest audience in the universe: Write to please yourself." ~Harlan Ellison
Ha! Today's Writers' Wednesday post is a little different than usual, partly because I'm still collecting and scheduling writers for the next couple of months.
So I hope you'll join me today over at Leah Braemel's blog...she's hosting me, and I'm blogging about my 15 Favorite Books. Even better, I'm giving away a download of either One Night in Napa or any of my backlist to one commenter today.
Hope to see you there!
Ha! Today's Writers' Wednesday post is a little different than usual, partly because I'm still collecting and scheduling writers for the next couple of months.
So I hope you'll join me today over at Leah Braemel's blog...she's hosting me, and I'm blogging about my 15 Favorite Books. Even better, I'm giving away a download of either One Night in Napa or any of my backlist to one commenter today.
Hope to see you there!
Monday, August 24, 2009
Monday Mentionables
Vacation used to be a luxury, but in today's world it has become a necessity. ~Author Unknown
First thing to mention today: my writing friend Liz had a great short story featured at The Long and the Short of It last week - click here to read "Mother of the Year"!
*****
I got my line edits back on Summer's Song last week, and the FLE (Final Line Editor - the person who takes a scrutinizing look at the manuscript after you and your regular editor have already been through it umpteen times) sent back her revisions with these comments: "The plot is great, the back story is very engaging. Summer's character arc is pitch-perfect. The setting of the McCready house makes so many other elements fall into place." Doing a little happy dance right now!
*****
And finally, here are a few pictures from our vacation last week in the Outer Banks, NC:
Some of the waves breaking - that morning they were around 10 feet but got up around 15 feet later in the day
The girls!
First thing to mention today: my writing friend Liz had a great short story featured at The Long and the Short of It last week - click here to read "Mother of the Year"!
*****
I got my line edits back on Summer's Song last week, and the FLE (Final Line Editor - the person who takes a scrutinizing look at the manuscript after you and your regular editor have already been through it umpteen times) sent back her revisions with these comments: "The plot is great, the back story is very engaging. Summer's character arc is pitch-perfect. The setting of the McCready house makes so many other elements fall into place." Doing a little happy dance right now!
*****
And finally, here are a few pictures from our vacation last week in the Outer Banks, NC:
Saturday morning, August 22 - if you look closely you can see what looks like fog, but it's actually salt spray from the waves, courtesy of Hurricane Bill
Some of the waves breaking - that morning they were around 10 feet but got up around 15 feet later in the day
The girls!
Wild mustangs up near Corolla - they seem to hang out everywhere: the roads, the beach, people's back yards...
Friday, August 21, 2009
Friday Fun Facts
"And while the law of competition may be sometimes hard for the individual, it is best for the race, because it ensures the survival of the fittest in every department." ~Andrew Carnegie
I'm still on vacation in the Outer Banks, with one eye on Hurricane Bill (looks like we'll have some turbulent surf along with a few storms on Saturday, but nothing too bad)...but I do have two pieces of NEWS for all you romance writers:
First, Firebrand Literary Agency recently announced that it's closing its doors. This is interesting news, since it comes on the heels of a Writer's Digest article that features 2 of its agents as open to submissions from new authors. Regardless, they are no longer in business, though I hear that one/or more of their agents may be opening her own agency. Don't know what genres they'll be looking for. Anyone heard?
Here's the official statement from their website.
Second, if you haven't already heard, Quartet Press is a new digital press, currently accepting submissions in the usual variety of romance sub-genres. Now, I don't know anything about Quartet Press and am not endorsing them, BUT Angela James, former Executive Editor at my publisher, Samhain, recently joined them as editorial director.
While we at Samhain are sad to lose Angie, it's a huge gain for Quartet. She has tons of editorial experience, and she's savvy to the ways of digital publishing and its future. I'd say that Quartet is very lucky to have her.
So...if you're looking for a new publisher, you might want to check them out. Again, this isn't a recommendation by any means, but here's their home page all the same.
I'm still on vacation in the Outer Banks, with one eye on Hurricane Bill (looks like we'll have some turbulent surf along with a few storms on Saturday, but nothing too bad)...but I do have two pieces of NEWS for all you romance writers:
First, Firebrand Literary Agency recently announced that it's closing its doors. This is interesting news, since it comes on the heels of a Writer's Digest article that features 2 of its agents as open to submissions from new authors. Regardless, they are no longer in business, though I hear that one/or more of their agents may be opening her own agency. Don't know what genres they'll be looking for. Anyone heard?
Here's the official statement from their website.
Second, if you haven't already heard, Quartet Press is a new digital press, currently accepting submissions in the usual variety of romance sub-genres. Now, I don't know anything about Quartet Press and am not endorsing them, BUT Angela James, former Executive Editor at my publisher, Samhain, recently joined them as editorial director.
While we at Samhain are sad to lose Angie, it's a huge gain for Quartet. She has tons of editorial experience, and she's savvy to the ways of digital publishing and its future. I'd say that Quartet is very lucky to have her.
So...if you're looking for a new publisher, you might want to check them out. Again, this isn't a recommendation by any means, but here's their home page all the same.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Writers' Wednesday:On Hiatus
Hi, everyone. Since I'm on vacation this week and have limited Internet access, the weekly author interview is postponed until next week. See you then!
Monday, August 17, 2009
Monday Mentionables
"A vacation is having nothing to do and all day to do it in." ~Robert Orben
Actually, there's only one thing really worth mentioning today, and that is that I am ON VACATION for the week! For the last 3 years, we have rented a home in the Outer Banks, NC, with a group of other couples. Not a lot to do down here but relax, enjoy the beach and the pool and some shopping and some seafood, and generally rejuvenate. It's lovely so far, and the weather for the week looks great.
So...yes, I brought my laptop, and yes I hope to do some writing, but we'll see! Relaxing and sleeping in is first on the agenda!!
Actually, there's only one thing really worth mentioning today, and that is that I am ON VACATION for the week! For the last 3 years, we have rented a home in the Outer Banks, NC, with a group of other couples. Not a lot to do down here but relax, enjoy the beach and the pool and some shopping and some seafood, and generally rejuvenate. It's lovely so far, and the weather for the week looks great.
So...yes, I brought my laptop, and yes I hope to do some writing, but we'll see! Relaxing and sleeping in is first on the agenda!!
Friday, August 14, 2009
Friday Fun Facts
Today's fun facts? They revolve around book signings/appearances. Are you an author who's done some/a few/one? Are you a reader who's attended one? Leave me a comment and you'll be entered into my August blog giveaway: the prize is your choice of either a download of Diane Craver's brand new release Whitney in Charge, a download of my newest release One Night in Napa, or a print copy of The Write Ingredients, a cookbook of yummy recipes collected and organized by Lori Foster and featuring Samhain authors.
So anyway, I've had the opportunity to do a few different kinds of public appearances with my books, including straight-forward bookstore signings, conference presentations, readings, book club discussions, and craft fair appearances. Tips? Here are my top 10:
1. Bring your own books. Even in the cases where the store/conference/club has planned to order them for you, things might fall through (or you might sell out!!). Always carry at least 10 copies of your title(s) in the trunk of your car in case this happens.
2. Prepare. Know what you'll be doing. Sitting behind a table and greeting potential customers? Speaking? About what? Your book? Getting published? Romance sub-genres?
3. Following up on #2, bring good ol' swag. Always have bookmarks and/or business cards. Brochures, magnets, excerpt booklets, candy...whatever you're using for promo this time around, bring it and set it out in plain sight. Encourage hesitant browsers to at least take something small. Many times they'll linger long enough to pick up a book and read the back...and then you're halfway to a sale!
4. Arrive early. I mean, that's kind of a given, but know where you're going (especially if you've never been there before) and plan to get there at least 20-30 minutes before your appearance is scheduled to begin.
5. Smile and say hello. Be happy about your books! Talk about why you write, or what your latest book is about. Ask potential customers what they like to read. Be friendly. Be honest. Even if someone doesn't buy your book or take a bookmark. It's OK. They'll be back ;)
6. Enlist people to help you. I was at a book club discussion this week and I brought my sister along. While I mingled with people after the talk, she stood at a table in the back of the room and sold my books. 10 in less than 10 minutes. Not too bad - and it freed me up to sign books and speak with others. At a Borders signing back in May, I ran out of books -- and my hubby ran out to the car to get the back-up box I'd brought while I sat at he and stalled my potential customers (see #1).
7. Bring water (or something else to drink). I spoke a book club this past week and it was about 80 degrees in the room. I usually bring a bottle of water, but this time I forgot. Not good!
8. Be kind to the people making your arrangements. Bookstore managers, craft fair coordinators, librarians...they're all doing you a favor by setting up an appearance for you. At the very least, send a thank-you card or email after you're through. Or consider bringing a small token of thanks with you. Those people will be the ones who schedule future appearances for you...and the ones who talk up your work when you're not there :)
9. Send promo materials ahead of time. If you can, send bookmarks, or a poster/flyer advertising your appearance. Don't leave all the work up to the person setting it up for you (see #8).
10. Read. If you have the chance, and you feel comfortable doing it, read an excerpt from your latest (or favorite) book. I've discovered that people really do like hearing authors read their own writing. And if you pick a particularly juicy part (or a good cliff hanger) you may make a sale or two!
So...what else would you add to this list?
So anyway, I've had the opportunity to do a few different kinds of public appearances with my books, including straight-forward bookstore signings, conference presentations, readings, book club discussions, and craft fair appearances. Tips? Here are my top 10:
1. Bring your own books. Even in the cases where the store/conference/club has planned to order them for you, things might fall through (or you might sell out!!). Always carry at least 10 copies of your title(s) in the trunk of your car in case this happens.
2. Prepare. Know what you'll be doing. Sitting behind a table and greeting potential customers? Speaking? About what? Your book? Getting published? Romance sub-genres?
3. Following up on #2, bring good ol' swag. Always have bookmarks and/or business cards. Brochures, magnets, excerpt booklets, candy...whatever you're using for promo this time around, bring it and set it out in plain sight. Encourage hesitant browsers to at least take something small. Many times they'll linger long enough to pick up a book and read the back...and then you're halfway to a sale!
4. Arrive early. I mean, that's kind of a given, but know where you're going (especially if you've never been there before) and plan to get there at least 20-30 minutes before your appearance is scheduled to begin.
5. Smile and say hello. Be happy about your books! Talk about why you write, or what your latest book is about. Ask potential customers what they like to read. Be friendly. Be honest. Even if someone doesn't buy your book or take a bookmark. It's OK. They'll be back ;)
6. Enlist people to help you. I was at a book club discussion this week and I brought my sister along. While I mingled with people after the talk, she stood at a table in the back of the room and sold my books. 10 in less than 10 minutes. Not too bad - and it freed me up to sign books and speak with others. At a Borders signing back in May, I ran out of books -- and my hubby ran out to the car to get the back-up box I'd brought while I sat at he and stalled my potential customers (see #1).
7. Bring water (or something else to drink). I spoke a book club this past week and it was about 80 degrees in the room. I usually bring a bottle of water, but this time I forgot. Not good!
8. Be kind to the people making your arrangements. Bookstore managers, craft fair coordinators, librarians...they're all doing you a favor by setting up an appearance for you. At the very least, send a thank-you card or email after you're through. Or consider bringing a small token of thanks with you. Those people will be the ones who schedule future appearances for you...and the ones who talk up your work when you're not there :)
9. Send promo materials ahead of time. If you can, send bookmarks, or a poster/flyer advertising your appearance. Don't leave all the work up to the person setting it up for you (see #8).
10. Read. If you have the chance, and you feel comfortable doing it, read an excerpt from your latest (or favorite) book. I've discovered that people really do like hearing authors read their own writing. And if you pick a particularly juicy part (or a good cliff hanger) you may make a sale or two!
So...what else would you add to this list?
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Writers' Wednesday: An Interview with Christine Columbus
Welcome back to Writers' Wednesday! Today I'm happy to introduce a fellow Wild Rose Press author, Christine Columbus. You're gonna enjoy this one!
Christine, can you tell us a little about your background?
I have lived my entire life in Minneapolis, Minnesota. I am a Romance Novelist for The Wild Rose Press, with a number of short stories and soon to be released novel, The Perfect Country and Western Story. My latest poem appeared in the Bloomington Art Center’s Literary production Reflection. My flash fiction appeared at MnArtist.org. Other publishing credits include creative non-fiction, poetry and children’s fiction stories.
Yes, Christine Columbus is my real name, but when my Mom agreed to let my Dad name his 6th child Christine Columbus she thought he would have been smart enough to spell Christine with a “K.”
I have lived my entire life in Minneapolis, Minnesota. I am a Romance Novelist for The Wild Rose Press, with a number of short stories and soon to be released novel, The Perfect Country and Western Story. My latest poem appeared in the Bloomington Art Center’s Literary production Reflection. My flash fiction appeared at MnArtist.org. Other publishing credits include creative non-fiction, poetry and children’s fiction stories.
Yes, Christine Columbus is my real name, but when my Mom agreed to let my Dad name his 6th child Christine Columbus she thought he would have been smart enough to spell Christine with a “K.”
My favorite comment from a teacher was Patrick at the University of Iowa who wrote that he looked forward to reading my work because I was a glitter of gold in a box of sand. For some unknown reason I always visualize a kitty litter box.
LOL...Okay, tell us about your latest writing project or published title.
My novel The Perfect Country and Western Story… was just a blast to write and is a very fun read – even if you don’t like cowboys or music. – Remember the story of Cinderella – Well, instead of a prince and a glass shoe… There is Alexandria who is going to a country festival with an autographic Toby Keith cowboy hat and she is trying to find the cowboy that the hat belongs to.
What advice would you give to new writers just starting out?
Everyone says, “Write what you know.” Which I found very intimidating- because all I know is working full-time, being a single parent and raising 2 children and training 1 dog…or was it training 2 children and raising 1 dog.
LOL...Okay, tell us about your latest writing project or published title.
My novel The Perfect Country and Western Story… was just a blast to write and is a very fun read – even if you don’t like cowboys or music. – Remember the story of Cinderella – Well, instead of a prince and a glass shoe… There is Alexandria who is going to a country festival with an autographic Toby Keith cowboy hat and she is trying to find the cowboy that the hat belongs to.
What advice would you give to new writers just starting out?
Everyone says, “Write what you know.” Which I found very intimidating- because all I know is working full-time, being a single parent and raising 2 children and training 1 dog…or was it training 2 children and raising 1 dog.
So, I say just write… write anything that you think someone might read…because for me I write because I love to have people read my stuff…And when I wasn’t published I took classes because I knew the teachers would have to read my papers – or I write letters – or emails…as long as someone is reading – I am happy.
I like that advice! Now, how do you balance writing with the rest of your life?
I am really lucky… I hate watching TV and I hate cleaning. So, when I get home from work – after taking a long walk … I have to entertain myself. My kids are 20 and 21 and are in college – so they are only home for the summers. So, I write because …I don’t have anything else that I would rather do…
Do you ever suffer from writer's block? If so, what do you do about it?
No, writer’s block…just dusting, vacuuming, scrubbing toilets..block…and occasionally I don’t want to exercise block…
Describe your writing space (or include a picture!)
I like that advice! Now, how do you balance writing with the rest of your life?
I am really lucky… I hate watching TV and I hate cleaning. So, when I get home from work – after taking a long walk … I have to entertain myself. My kids are 20 and 21 and are in college – so they are only home for the summers. So, I write because …I don’t have anything else that I would rather do…
Do you ever suffer from writer's block? If so, what do you do about it?
No, writer’s block…just dusting, vacuuming, scrubbing toilets..block…and occasionally I don’t want to exercise block…
Describe your writing space (or include a picture!)
Nice! Can I join you sometime? (just kidding) All right, what do you like to do when you're not writing?
Pretend I’m a Harley Chick….
Pretend I’m a Harley Chick….
Chrstine, thanks so much for being here today. Anything else you’d like to mention?
Don’t be afraid to Live Your Dreams… instead of holding on… let go. And thank you for reading.
Readers, you can find out more at Christine's website, http://www.christinecolumbus.net/, and her Wild Rose Press author page. Thanks for stopping by, and have a great day!
Monday, August 10, 2009
Monday's Mentionables: Royalties, a Car, and a Reunion
"Never go to your high school reunion pregnant or they will think that is all you have done since you graduated." ~Erma Bombeck
Let's see...what's worth mentioning today??
I made my second highest (ever) earnings in royalties for July -- not saying this is a lot, don't get me wrong, but with the release of One Night in Napa plus the little hit my backlist of titles got, there was an actual plus number on my royalty statements this time :)
I'm in the process of buying a new car (and this is a totally separate story which deserves its own Monday Mentionables post, I'm hoping next week when I actually own it...) and finally,
I attended my 20th high school reunion over the weekend and had an AWESOME time. Here are some pics:
Reunited with some gymnastics teammates & trying out our old moves
With my sister at the Saturday night dinner (she was taking pictures for us...she will have you know that she is 3 years younger than I!)
With 2 of my planning committee members at the dinner
Let's see...what's worth mentioning today??
I made my second highest (ever) earnings in royalties for July -- not saying this is a lot, don't get me wrong, but with the release of One Night in Napa plus the little hit my backlist of titles got, there was an actual plus number on my royalty statements this time :)
I'm in the process of buying a new car (and this is a totally separate story which deserves its own Monday Mentionables post, I'm hoping next week when I actually own it...) and finally,
I attended my 20th high school reunion over the weekend and had an AWESOME time. Here are some pics:
With my husband at the Friday night mixer (he was helping me hand out Mardi Gras beads to our classmates...until I told him that no, the women did not have to flash anything to get the beads LOL)
Reunited with some gymnastics teammates & trying out our old moves
With my sister at the Saturday night dinner (she was taking pictures for us...she will have you know that she is 3 years younger than I!)
With 2 of my planning committee members at the dinnerFriday, August 07, 2009
Friday Fun Facts
This week's fun facts: since I'm going to my (gulp) 20-year class reunion this weekend, I thought it would be neat to look back in time at what was big (hair, of course) in 1989...
Songs:
Like a Prayer
Rockin' In the Free World
Free Fallin'
Love Shack
Bust a Move
Movies:
Batman
Look Who's Talking
Honey, I Shrunk the Kids
The Little Mermaid
Driving Miss Daisy
Major News Events
Berlin Wall Falls
Exxon Valdez Spills Oil in Alaska
Ring Around Neptune Discovered
Chinese Students Killed in Tiananmen Square
Ayatollah Khomeini Dies
Books
Clear and Present Danger (Tom Clancy)
The Dark Half (Stephen King)
Daddy (Danielle Steel)
Caribbean (James Michener)
The Satanic Verses (Salman Rushdie)
And, since I'm a child of the 80s, I was brought up on John Hughes' brilliant adolescent-angst movies, Sixteen Candles, The Breakfast Club, Ferris Bueller's Day Off, and Some Kind of Wonderful among them. Very sad that he's passed away.
What about you? Remember where you were/what you were doing 2 decades ago?
Songs:
Like a Prayer
Rockin' In the Free World
Free Fallin'
Love Shack
Bust a Move
Movies:
Batman
Look Who's Talking
Honey, I Shrunk the Kids
The Little Mermaid
Driving Miss Daisy
Major News Events
Berlin Wall Falls
Exxon Valdez Spills Oil in Alaska
Ring Around Neptune Discovered
Chinese Students Killed in Tiananmen Square
Ayatollah Khomeini Dies
Books
Clear and Present Danger (Tom Clancy)
The Dark Half (Stephen King)
Daddy (Danielle Steel)
Caribbean (James Michener)
The Satanic Verses (Salman Rushdie)
And, since I'm a child of the 80s, I was brought up on John Hughes' brilliant adolescent-angst movies, Sixteen Candles, The Breakfast Club, Ferris Bueller's Day Off, and Some Kind of Wonderful among them. Very sad that he's passed away.
What about you? Remember where you were/what you were doing 2 decades ago?
Wednesday, August 05, 2009
Writers' Wednesday: A Peek at Carly Phillips
Welcome to Writers' Wednesday! While I'm in the process of dusting off and updating my blog this week, I don't have a "live" author interview today. Instead, though, I'll point you in the direction of the featured author interview up on my local RWA chapter site, with Carly Phillips. Carly is the author of best-selling novels Lucky Streak and The Bachelor, among many others. While she's usually busy traveling/writing/juggling promotional events, she does still take the time to stay in touch with the members of our group, where she started all those years ago.
So...take a visit to our site and read up on the latest Carly news. Then, come on back here and leave a comment telling me which piece of info you liked the best, or found most interesting. Hey, remember it'll put you in the running for my August giveaway contest!
Hope you enjoy the interview!!
Hope you enjoy the interview!!
Monday, August 03, 2009
Monday Mentionables
"Summer is the time when one sheds one's tensions with one's clothes, and the right kind of day is jeweled balm for the battered spirit. A few of those days and you can become drunk with the belief that all's right with the world." ~Ada Louise Huxtable
Welcome to the first day of my "revised" blog...where I'll only be posting 3x/each week -- but I will be offering a giveaway to one lucky commenter each month! What's August's prize? Your choice of either a download of Diane Craver's brand new release Whitney in Charge, a download of my newest release One Night in Napa, or a print copy of The Write Ingredients, a cookbook of yummy recipes collected and organized by Lori Foster and featuring Samhain authors.
*****
Worth mentioning this week:
I'll be signing copies of One Night in Napa at the Waldenbooks in the Oakdale Mall in Binghamton, NY on Saturday, August 29, from 1 - 4 pm.
I'll also be at the Monroe Cheese Festival in Monroe, NY, on Saturday, September 12, from 1 - 4 pm and the Pine Bush Harvest Festival in Pine Bush, NY, on Saturday, September 19, from 10 am - 4 pm.
Finally, my local RWA chapter is holding a luncheon workshop on Saturday, September 12 to welcome potential new members and have an informal meet and greet of its published authors. You can find more information here.
*****
Finished my edits for Summer's Song yesterday, and for the first time I don't have a book under contract to think about! That's both good and bad...now I have to figure out what direction I want to go next, and which project I should focus on. Ah, decisions, decisions!
Welcome to the first day of my "revised" blog...where I'll only be posting 3x/each week -- but I will be offering a giveaway to one lucky commenter each month! What's August's prize? Your choice of either a download of Diane Craver's brand new release Whitney in Charge, a download of my newest release One Night in Napa, or a print copy of The Write Ingredients, a cookbook of yummy recipes collected and organized by Lori Foster and featuring Samhain authors.
*****
Worth mentioning this week:
I'll be signing copies of One Night in Napa at the Waldenbooks in the Oakdale Mall in Binghamton, NY on Saturday, August 29, from 1 - 4 pm.
I'll also be at the Monroe Cheese Festival in Monroe, NY, on Saturday, September 12, from 1 - 4 pm and the Pine Bush Harvest Festival in Pine Bush, NY, on Saturday, September 19, from 10 am - 4 pm.
Finally, my local RWA chapter is holding a luncheon workshop on Saturday, September 12 to welcome potential new members and have an informal meet and greet of its published authors. You can find more information here.
*****
Finished my edits for Summer's Song yesterday, and for the first time I don't have a book under contract to think about! That's both good and bad...now I have to figure out what direction I want to go next, and which project I should focus on. Ah, decisions, decisions!
Saturday, August 01, 2009
Some Blog Changes...
"When you are through changing, you are through." ~Bruce Barton
Since reaching 1000 blog posts the other day, I've done some thinking and reevaluating, and the result is going to be some changes here at Allie's Musings. I won't get into the question of why-and-who visits blogs, why-and-why-not people comment, why-and-who keeps blogs in the first place. While I think blogs can be useful for authors, you also have to start looking at your content and who you're trying to reach. Is your blog personable and casual? Is it a forum for marketing yourself? Is it a place to share highlights about other authors and books or a way to reach potential readers/editors/agents? All of the above or none?
I have a steady stream of regular visitors, from what I can tell thanks to Google Analytics. However, I don't visit and comment on enough other blogs - nor do I have enough riveting content of my own - to keep growing my readership exponentially, which I think should probably be the goal of a writer's blog. And with my full-time teaching job and my own writing, it sometimes becomes a challenge? burden? to write an engaging blog post each day.
So...that was the long way of saying that I'm going to scale back my blog posts to 3x a week. For a few months, anyway, I'm going to post for Monday Mentionables (anything notable going on with my own writing); Writer's Wednesday (author interviews), and Friday Fun Facts (interesting tidbits for writers). And each month, I'll give something away to one lucky commenter: a book, or a download, or a gift certificate, or a goodie basket...or something to attract those lurkers who visit and read but rarely comment. :)
The official change will begin this Monday, August 3...hope you'll come back and join me!
Since reaching 1000 blog posts the other day, I've done some thinking and reevaluating, and the result is going to be some changes here at Allie's Musings. I won't get into the question of why-and-who visits blogs, why-and-why-not people comment, why-and-who keeps blogs in the first place. While I think blogs can be useful for authors, you also have to start looking at your content and who you're trying to reach. Is your blog personable and casual? Is it a forum for marketing yourself? Is it a place to share highlights about other authors and books or a way to reach potential readers/editors/agents? All of the above or none?
I have a steady stream of regular visitors, from what I can tell thanks to Google Analytics. However, I don't visit and comment on enough other blogs - nor do I have enough riveting content of my own - to keep growing my readership exponentially, which I think should probably be the goal of a writer's blog. And with my full-time teaching job and my own writing, it sometimes becomes a challenge? burden? to write an engaging blog post each day.
So...that was the long way of saying that I'm going to scale back my blog posts to 3x a week. For a few months, anyway, I'm going to post for Monday Mentionables (anything notable going on with my own writing); Writer's Wednesday (author interviews), and Friday Fun Facts (interesting tidbits for writers). And each month, I'll give something away to one lucky commenter: a book, or a download, or a gift certificate, or a goodie basket...or something to attract those lurkers who visit and read but rarely comment. :)
The official change will begin this Monday, August 3...hope you'll come back and join me!
Friday, July 31, 2009
1000!!
"It is not down in any map; true places never are." ~Herman Melville
Oh my gosh...it's my 1000th blog post!! How did that happen? Have I actually been blathering on for close to 3 years here at Allie's Musings? Hmmm..
I'm afraid I don't have anything profound to say today in celebration, except that I'll be running an August contest here on my blog that will begin tomorrow, so make sure and check back.
Spent the last two days with my sister at Mohonk Mountain House, a lovely old resort near New Paltz, NY, which reminds one at every turn of the movie Dirty Dancing (sigh...). It was wonderful, especially the food and the grounds and the hiking. Pictures up here soon, I promise!
Writers, you might want to check out Dayana Knight's blog this week -- she's talking all about getting more exposure and revising your "brand." Also, there's a new bookstore looking for promo items from romance writers, as shared by one of the authors on my Samhain loop. If you're interested in the contact info, email me at allieb@allieboniface.com
Oh my gosh...it's my 1000th blog post!! How did that happen? Have I actually been blathering on for close to 3 years here at Allie's Musings? Hmmm..
I'm afraid I don't have anything profound to say today in celebration, except that I'll be running an August contest here on my blog that will begin tomorrow, so make sure and check back.
Spent the last two days with my sister at Mohonk Mountain House, a lovely old resort near New Paltz, NY, which reminds one at every turn of the movie Dirty Dancing (sigh...). It was wonderful, especially the food and the grounds and the hiking. Pictures up here soon, I promise!
Writers, you might want to check out Dayana Knight's blog this week -- she's talking all about getting more exposure and revising your "brand." Also, there's a new bookstore looking for promo items from romance writers, as shared by one of the authors on my Samhain loop. If you're interested in the contact info, email me at allieb@allieboniface.com
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
The Annual Sister Trip
"Sisterhood is powerful." ~Robin Morgan
Regular (and long-time) blog followers may recall that each year, my sister and I take some kind of trip together. This year it's a rather abbreviated one, since we both have had incredibly busy years, but we're still doing a getaway tonight - tomorrow to a local resort, hiking and eating scrumptious foods and hitting a spa. So...I'm off to get ready -- probably won't be back here 'til later tomorrow, so have a great couple of days!
Regular (and long-time) blog followers may recall that each year, my sister and I take some kind of trip together. This year it's a rather abbreviated one, since we both have had incredibly busy years, but we're still doing a getaway tonight - tomorrow to a local resort, hiking and eating scrumptious foods and hitting a spa. So...I'm off to get ready -- probably won't be back here 'til later tomorrow, so have a great couple of days!
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
This 'n That
"Doing business without advertising is like winking at a girl in the dark. You know what you are doing, but nobody else does." ~Steuart Henderson Britt
Sunday evening I participated in a chat at the Samhain Cafe - my first one, believe it or not, and it actually went quite well. I should probably do them on a more regular basis. Anyone else participate in online promo events like that regularly - and do you find that they increase your sales/followers?
Working on my second round of edits for Summer's Song. I will be so glad when they're over with! I forget how tedious it can be to go through a manuscript with a fine-tooth comb, over and over. Sigh. What did my editor and I find this time? Lots of instances of people turning on/turning off/adjusting the radio in their cars. What the heck? That's a new one for me. Suffice to say most of those scenes are gone now!
50 pages done, 130 to go...
Sunday evening I participated in a chat at the Samhain Cafe - my first one, believe it or not, and it actually went quite well. I should probably do them on a more regular basis. Anyone else participate in online promo events like that regularly - and do you find that they increase your sales/followers?
Working on my second round of edits for Summer's Song. I will be so glad when they're over with! I forget how tedious it can be to go through a manuscript with a fine-tooth comb, over and over. Sigh. What did my editor and I find this time? Lots of instances of people turning on/turning off/adjusting the radio in their cars. What the heck? That's a new one for me. Suffice to say most of those scenes are gone now!
50 pages done, 130 to go...
Monday, July 27, 2009
Query Letters - Yet Again
"Writing is making sense of life. You work your whole life and perhaps you've made sense of one small area." ~Nadine Gordimer
Well, check one off the list: I've finished the synopsis for Entwined. It's a bit of a mess, but it's finished, and working through it, I actually identified some problems right off the bat. So that's positive.
Then I was trolling online yesterday, looking for guides to writing query letters. Yes, I've written a bunch, but they don't seem to get much easier, and any help is usually good help. I came across this guide on AgentQuery (which, by the way, is a terrific source if you're searching for a literary agent) - you might find it helpful: How to Write a Query.
And I made my first attempt at a query for Entwined. I'm a few months away from sending it out, but I still thought it might be good practice to come up with something. So...what do you think??
When scholar Chase Hatfield travels from upscale California to conservative small-town Iowa to research the recently deceased poetess Maggie Silverstone, he falls for her daughter Natasha, translates a never-before-seen journal, and uncovers a secret that threatens to expose the greatest love story ever told.
Set in two different time periods thirty years apart, Entwined is a 90,000-word literary romance novel that follows two separate love stories while exploring the ideas of soul mates and reincarnation. Maggie Blue and Bruce Silverstone meet as undergrads at Blakely College and fall madly in love, despite past secrets that threaten to keep them apart. Thirty years later, when they perish in a car accident, their only daughter Natasha is left to pick up the pieces of their brilliant academic careers and soldier on.
When Chase Hatfield, an aspiring PhD student, enters her life, it is only a matter of time before these two fall in love as well. But puzzling things are occurring at Blakely, from the discovery of a skeleton in the basement of Silverstone Hall to a spirit that hovers over Natasha day and night. When Chase discovers a journal with a secret that could destroy not only Natasha’s life but her parents’ legacy, he is forced to make a heart-breaking decision and turn his back on the greatest love he has ever known.
Told in both past and present narrative, journal entries, and poem fragments, Entwined is a unique piece of women’s fiction that examines what makes people fall in love, despite the greatest of obstacles or social conventions.
Well, check one off the list: I've finished the synopsis for Entwined. It's a bit of a mess, but it's finished, and working through it, I actually identified some problems right off the bat. So that's positive.
Then I was trolling online yesterday, looking for guides to writing query letters. Yes, I've written a bunch, but they don't seem to get much easier, and any help is usually good help. I came across this guide on AgentQuery (which, by the way, is a terrific source if you're searching for a literary agent) - you might find it helpful: How to Write a Query.
And I made my first attempt at a query for Entwined. I'm a few months away from sending it out, but I still thought it might be good practice to come up with something. So...what do you think??
When scholar Chase Hatfield travels from upscale California to conservative small-town Iowa to research the recently deceased poetess Maggie Silverstone, he falls for her daughter Natasha, translates a never-before-seen journal, and uncovers a secret that threatens to expose the greatest love story ever told.
Set in two different time periods thirty years apart, Entwined is a 90,000-word literary romance novel that follows two separate love stories while exploring the ideas of soul mates and reincarnation. Maggie Blue and Bruce Silverstone meet as undergrads at Blakely College and fall madly in love, despite past secrets that threaten to keep them apart. Thirty years later, when they perish in a car accident, their only daughter Natasha is left to pick up the pieces of their brilliant academic careers and soldier on.
When Chase Hatfield, an aspiring PhD student, enters her life, it is only a matter of time before these two fall in love as well. But puzzling things are occurring at Blakely, from the discovery of a skeleton in the basement of Silverstone Hall to a spirit that hovers over Natasha day and night. When Chase discovers a journal with a secret that could destroy not only Natasha’s life but her parents’ legacy, he is forced to make a heart-breaking decision and turn his back on the greatest love he has ever known.
Told in both past and present narrative, journal entries, and poem fragments, Entwined is a unique piece of women’s fiction that examines what makes people fall in love, despite the greatest of obstacles or social conventions.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Two Recommendations
"The third-rate mind is only happy when it is thinking with the majority. The second-rate mind is only happy when it is thinking with the minority. The first-rate mind is only happy when it is thinking." ~A.A. Milne
Movie: Watched "Gran Torino" last night and liked it much better than I thought I would. I'm not a big Clint Eastwood fan (sorry...), but I liked him in this a lot. It's the story of a widower living in a rough LA neighborhood who befriends the Asian family next door. Eastwood plays the rough, close-minded guy with a thousand preconceptions and biases that slowly disappear as he gets to know his neighbors. A Korean War veteran, he becomes a role model to one teenage boy and helps protect him from a gang that's trying to initiate him. It's violent in a couple of spots, but the overall theme is a good one and the acting was great. I definitely recommend it.
Book: I'm in the middle of Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli - anyone read it? It's a YA novel that some of my former students recommended. Takes place in an Arizona HS and revolves around a new student - Stargirl - who is utterly different in looks and actions than anyone else the students have ever seen. I'm only about halfway through, but so far it's a nice look at the conformity of adolescence and how individuality is tough to find and keep but priceless in the power it brings one's self and others.
So...there you have it. If you've seen any good movies or read any good books lately, let me know! I'm always on the lookout...
Movie: Watched "Gran Torino" last night and liked it much better than I thought I would. I'm not a big Clint Eastwood fan (sorry...), but I liked him in this a lot. It's the story of a widower living in a rough LA neighborhood who befriends the Asian family next door. Eastwood plays the rough, close-minded guy with a thousand preconceptions and biases that slowly disappear as he gets to know his neighbors. A Korean War veteran, he becomes a role model to one teenage boy and helps protect him from a gang that's trying to initiate him. It's violent in a couple of spots, but the overall theme is a good one and the acting was great. I definitely recommend it.
Book: I'm in the middle of Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli - anyone read it? It's a YA novel that some of my former students recommended. Takes place in an Arizona HS and revolves around a new student - Stargirl - who is utterly different in looks and actions than anyone else the students have ever seen. I'm only about halfway through, but so far it's a nice look at the conformity of adolescence and how individuality is tough to find and keep but priceless in the power it brings one's self and others.
So...there you have it. If you've seen any good movies or read any good books lately, let me know! I'm always on the lookout...
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