Wednesday, May 29, 2013
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
The lessons I have learned as a writer.
The lessons I have learned as a writer....
Write what you believe in.
Even if you want to write a popular genre write it the way you want to write it. Don't conform to fit a mold. There are already many stories out there doing that, be different. Open yourself up to risk in your work and most of all believe in every word that you put down, because they all meant something at one time.
Enjoy it.
What is writing if you don't enjoy it? It's nothing. If you can't enjoy your writing you shouldnt be writing. Yeah, there are always going to be times in your work where you want to skip over a scene or chapter and move on, but finding a way to enjoy what you do will make it so much easier. You can't take life so seriously all the time. There is room to be fun, to be silly with your words. Try it some time.
Always learn more.
Always, always always learn something new about writing. Find new ways to describe scenes, people, feelings. Sometimes all it takes is stepping back and watching a movie to pick up something new you can use in writing, or listening to music. Watch how people move, speak, act in different situations. Watch soap operas to understand drama. Read another author's book. Read a genre you wouldn't normally read. Just do something to gain a new skill toward writing. It makes the world of a difference.
Be you
Nobody writes like you. Sure we all have our favorite authors, but that doesn't mean we have to be them.
Close your eyes to the negative.
There is nothing you can do if somebody doesn't like your book. Remember, you don't always like everything you read either. Don't take it personal, move on. And if you have to dwell on it, at least try to pull something positive from it, or learn from it. Or better yet, don't worry about it. It is the way of the world, some people will try and pull you down, this happens some times as a writer, all you can do is deal with it the best way you know how. And remember all negatives are NOT someone attacking you viciously. Sometimes it's the cold hard truth, sometimes it's just simply not their cup of tea. Whatever the case may be you have to learn to grow a thick skin or you will never get anywhere. You can't live your life as a writer with pent up rage every time things don't go your way. Enjoy the times that they do, and brush off the times that they don't. You will feel a whole lot better for it. And remember your not the only one feeling this way, take a moment to remind yourself when you start to feel down.
Grow a thick skin
I wear my thick skin proudly. I have weathered the storm and made it out on the other side. We all go through that time in our writing life where we feel like we have been kicked in the teeth one way or another. But eventually you grow that thick skin and you feel invincible. You'll know it when it happens.
Always find new avenues
Do your research. As an indie you can never stop finding new ways to dive into writing, promoting and networking. Keep at it everyday if you need to. Hoard it all like those people on the show and use every tool you find, the more you reach out the better things will be for you in all ways.
Don't be stingy
I think all of us know someone else in the same boat as we are. Share what you learn with them, don't be a stingy jerk! Your not going to make it to the finish line because you hold all the tips and tricks, your going to feel a lot better sharing what you know with people just like you. Try it, you'll like it.
Offer up yourself, but also stay closed.
No matter how big or small your success is with writing, be human. Don't become to good to talk with readers and authors. We are all people. Just don't stretch yourself so thin that you end up not doing what you came to the party for, and that's writing books.
Feel for others.
There is going to be controversy. And some people want to jump on the bandwagon. Don't do this please. Take the time to put your self in that author's shoes before you decide to judge them. You might find out they are not as bad as the world wants to make them out to be. Or you might simply understand them and relate to them. Feel for others because one day you might find yourself in their shoes.
We are all the same.
It doesn't matter what we write, or how good we do it. We all have the desire to write. We all love it. Remember we are all the same, mingle with all types of writers because they all have something to teach you one way or another. Don't be a snob, it's tacky.
Try new things
Wander away from paranormal. Try something new, if you write mystery, maybe mix it up somehow, do something different one way or another, sometimes it helps. It's like a breath of fresh air. If you never wrote a steamy sex scene but enjoy reading them, try it. You might discover your really good at it. If your writing is more serious, try some humor. If you write in first person, try third. Just try something new. Do it already!
Monday, May 27, 2013
Meet the Author: Jennifer Garcia
Jennifer Garcia’s love of travel began when she traveled to the West Coast to visit her father at the age of three. Her home until she was sixteen was a small coastal town near Boston. She currently resides in Los Angeles with her husband, two sons, and two dogs.
Her lifelong love for reading and writing was put aside for
many years while she made her way in the world and nurtured her young family.
Even though she is older, and life never seems to settle, she’s finding her way
while attending college full-time in pursuit of a B.A. in English Literature.
She also runs a business, and is still caring for her family. Believing she can
do it all, with the help of her family, she worked on her first novel during
the late hours of the night while balancing the rest of her life during the
day. Her hard work paid off, as her first novel, My Mr. Manny, will be
published August 2013.
2. When did you first consider yourself a writer?
3. What inspired you to write your first book?
4. What books have influenced your life most?
5. If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?
6. What book are you reading now?
7. What do you like to do when you’re not writing?
8. Where do you get your ideas for your books?
9. What new author has grasped your interest?
10. If you couldn’t be an author, what would your ideal career be?
11. What was your favourite chapter to write and why?
12. Why do you feel you had to tell this story?
13. Can you tell us about your upcoming book?
15. Do you have any advice for aspiring authors?
1. Tell me a bit about yourself.
I'm a So. Californian transplant from Boston for about twenty-six years now. Am I still considered a transplant after all this time? I'm partial owner and run my family's recycling business. I also attend college full-time. My husband has been patient and kind while he's taken over most of the household duties for me since I've taken on all of these new roles. My two wonderful boys help out a lot as well and don't complain too much when I'm too busy. I find time to write at night after the house is quiet, if I'm not too burnt out and tired.
2. When did you first consider yourself a writer?
Honestly, when I signed my first contract to publish last October. I thought, This is official. I'm officially a writer.
3. What inspired you to write your first book?
It started off with a writing prompt, but it just grew from there. Mostly, the inspiration came from my own feelings of leaving home and my extended family behind.
4. What books have influenced your life most?
Historical books are my inspiration and the most inspirational so far has been, The Shoemaker's Wife by Adriana Trigiani. Amazing story of love, struggles, family, and traveling.
5. If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?
Adriana Trigiani. As an Italian-American myself her books are very inspirational and hit home for me. They remind me of how I grew up and the things I missed out never living in Italy. Her words touch my heart and soul as if she knows me and my thoughts.
6. What book are you reading now?
Right now, Beautiful Creatures by Tracy Chevalier. It's for the Jane Austen book club I belong to. Set in Lyme, England, it's pretty interesting so far.
7. What do you like to do when you’re not writing?
Well, as you can see from my answer to question number one, I'm doing a million other things. Life is full of commitments and lately very few pleasures. Hence the book club, which is one of my only getaways from the craziness.
8. Where do you get your ideas for your books?
Sometimes, I get them from life experiences and other times from prompts. I may use a prompt and interweave it with an experience of mine and go from there.
9. What new author has grasped your interest?
There are a lot of new authors out there that have grasped my interest. It's hard to choose. Sydney Logan, Lissa Bryan, Lisa Bilbrey, and Sandi Layne are just a few that come to mind.
10. If you couldn’t be an author, what would your ideal career be?
Actress. Not sure why, but I subconsciously dream about being on a TV show or in a movie. It's not something I want to do consciously either. But my dreams tell me it is.
11. What was your favourite chapter to write and why?
The first. I love trying to figure out a way to capture the reader and setting up the story.
12. Why do you feel you had to tell this story?
I love romance stories and thought how great it would be to share a great love story of my own.
13. Can you tell us about your upcoming book?
I have two books coming out this summer. The first one releases July 2nd and is a novella, In My Mother's Footsteps. The second one is a novel, My Mr. Manny and releases August 26th. Both of them are about family but in different ways and how life's struggles can lead you to what you least expect, the love of your life. My novella takes the reader on a trip to Oahu and the main character explores the sites while looking for her father, a father she never knew she had. My novel is about a a girl who moved from her whole big Italian family to live with her single father in California. When she runs into a childhood friend they hit it off and get married. However, they both were just trying to grasp at what they missed back home and they truly weren't right for each other. The main character was in need of some help at home with her daughter while she works and along come the recommendation of a manny (male nanny). Well, let's just say, sparks fly and their journey begins, while the MC tries to build a family of her own.
14. How do you market your book(s)?
14. How do you market your book(s)?
Gah, this is the part I never thought of until I was done with the writing and editing. It's a lot of work and the worry sets in. Will anyone read my books? That seems to be an ongoing question in my mind. So, I've been doing interviews, talking it up in person, telling everyone I know, I belong to some Twitter chains, Facebook, and other social sites have been helpful as well. Otherwise, I'm just praying.
15. Do you have any advice for aspiring authors?
I see a lot of people I know who write really well and stick to free online posting. Regardless of the encouragement, it seems they have such a fear of putting themselves out there. Their stories belong on bookshelves, yet they're too afraid. So, my advice would be to put yourself out there. You can't fail unless you try and if you succeed you'll gain so much.
Find Jennifer on:
Sunday, May 26, 2013
Sunday Funday Director's note's: Perfectly Hopeless
I stumbled upon a cool blog idea. Letting the reader into my ideas behind chapters or the stories I write. So enjoy this little peek into the world of Maven from Perfectly Hopeless.
Maven is a young girl, heading back to her family's summer home after her very public breakup with her boyfriend, Jake Summit. Like anyone in life she is hurt, still dealing with her old wounds and debating whether or not it's the right thing to be doing.
When I wrote the beginning of Perfectly Hopeless, I imagined Maven, I could feel the dread in her stomach as she got close to her summer home. How vulnerable she felt.
I wanted to give the reader a quick hello when it came to her family, I like to introduce main characters early on most times that I write.
In Perfectly Hopeless I saw Maven as a sweet, young girl with that simple naive way about her. She knows life isn't perfect, but she wishes it was. She's not much different than any of us in life. Though she may come off a bit prudish and innocent she can handle a lot when she has to.
And what's in store for her ends up being so beautiful, an experience like none she ever had before when she meets Henri.
I'm not sure, nor have I asked how Henri and Maven come across to readers. But as for me, I wanted the connection to be innocent, simple and sweet. I wanted to take all the complication and paranormal out of most books that I write and just write a story about love.
I was touched emotionally while watching a youtube video, and this is what sparked the idea further for my book. I feel I found that video at the right time, because it took my story idea and painted it beautifully. I won't say what video it is because I feel it gives away the story.
But I will share with you the celebs I had in my mind for the two main characters in my story. If you get a chance to read it, let me know if you feel the same about them.
Maven Henri
In Perfectly Hopeless I saw Maven as a sweet, young girl with that simple naive way about her. She knows life isn't perfect, but she wishes it was. She's not much different than any of us in life. Though she may come off a bit prudish and innocent she can handle a lot when she has to.
And what's in store for her ends up being so beautiful, an experience like none she ever had before when she meets Henri.
I'm not sure, nor have I asked how Henri and Maven come across to readers. But as for me, I wanted the connection to be innocent, simple and sweet. I wanted to take all the complication and paranormal out of most books that I write and just write a story about love.
I was touched emotionally while watching a youtube video, and this is what sparked the idea further for my book. I feel I found that video at the right time, because it took my story idea and painted it beautifully. I won't say what video it is because I feel it gives away the story.
But I will share with you the celebs I had in my mind for the two main characters in my story. If you get a chance to read it, let me know if you feel the same about them.
Maven Henri
Summer time
This would
be her summer. She swore it. The summer life would go from devastating to incredible.
Maven stared out of the window as her parents gossiped in the front seat about
Claudia, their too confident neighbor with more money than the entire town.
She closed
her eyes dropping her head back against the leather seat, her golden blonde
hair cascading around her shoulders. Maven, a young woman full of hope. She never went to
bed without reflecting on all she wished would happen for her.
Portwood ,
the setting of their summer home. Every home carefully nestled between giant
willow trees. A small town right outside the lake. Maven’s family went every
year during the summer. A home full of memories for all of them, a place you
sat back and smiled about when you thought about all the good times you experienced.
It would always be magical.
“I wonder
if Jake is going to be there,” Nick, her older brother said. Doing his best to
tease Maven from her spot in the family car, Nick knew Maven prayed for the
opposite. After their messy breakup she didn’t ever want to lay eyes on him
again. Jake was a jerk. And the entire family knew it.
“I don’t
know and I don’t care.” After the tears she cried over a guy like Jake she
meant what she said. And now the family’s annual vacation was sounding less
exciting and more torturous to her. She shrank down in her seat as the Portwood
welcome sign whizzed by the window.
Mom shot
her a sympathetic smile.
“Everyone
who is anyone is at Portwood for Summer vaca,” Maggie her younger sister said,
tearing off her sunglasses to gain better view of all the younger guys as they
carried beach towels and coolers on their way to the lake.
“I don’t
think the Maves considers Jake Summit anyone
anymore,” Nick smirked. He leaned forward, clamping down on Maven’s shoulder.
“If he gives you any trouble you just let me know. I’ll rough him up for you.”
Their
mother shot a concerned look in both of their directions. She knew just how
Nick’s temper could get sometimes. It wasn’t funny. “Nicky, you remember what we
said.”
Nick
sighed, letting out the loudest grumble he could muster. “I know, I know. No
more money for college if I lay a finger on Summit. That’s what family is for
though, Mom.” He ran a hand through his shaggy brown mop of hair giving Maven a
secret smirk.
Maven
unfastened her seat belt, staring up at the family summer home. A modern two
story brick home with white shutters and a huge wraparound porch, lush green
grass with the perfect amount of shade and sun.
She refused
to let Jake Summit ruin her summer.
Saturday, May 25, 2013
Singing Saturday: Blurred Lines
Can't get enough of this song. Right now I play it a couple times a day. Isn't it just so catchy and fun?
And might I mention, Robin Thicke just exudes sex and coolness. It's ridiculous really lol
Friday, May 24, 2013
Finally Friday: Back story of Ink
Many people ask, Why did you decide to write Ink? How did you come up with the idea? Where did the characters come from.
I wanted to create a bad boy, I scoured the web for a bad boy name and that was how Slade was born.
Of course with every paranormal romance you need that innocent girl, and that is how Hope was born.
She has come a long way. She might not be my favorite character most days, but she keeps me interested enough to have written three books now about her.
Every story I write there will always be a sarcastic jerk or two. Along with some nut job that just makes you scratch your head and wonder what the hell is going on?
I didn't plan on witches, or magic or anything like that to be involved it just happened, but it developed into something wonderful.
Might I add it was my first time writing steamier sex scenes, I have to admit its kind of fun, and I am still learning how to perfect them.
I am not sure how long the Ink series will last, it's like any other thing I write, when it ends it ends. But I don't think it will anytime soon.
Well here is my chance to shine a little light on that.
First of all, I love music. I had been stuck on a certain song. I don't know, it fit. It was totally the theme song for my book.
I had an addiction to listening to Avenged Sevenfold at the time as well, and M. Shadows made the perfect Slade to emulate for my book. He could sing, he had tattoos and that lip piercing that drives the world wild in Cherry, it just worked.
She has come a long way. She might not be my favorite character most days, but she keeps me interested enough to have written three books now about her.
Every story I write there will always be a sarcastic jerk or two. Along with some nut job that just makes you scratch your head and wonder what the hell is going on?
I didn't plan on witches, or magic or anything like that to be involved it just happened, but it developed into something wonderful.
Might I add it was my first time writing steamier sex scenes, I have to admit its kind of fun, and I am still learning how to perfect them.
I am not sure how long the Ink series will last, it's like any other thing I write, when it ends it ends. But I don't think it will anytime soon.
Thursday, May 23, 2013
Thirsty Thursday: Drunk Uncle/Holly Edition
What is it with neighborhood solicitors?
*Knock Knock *
No means no Mr. Salesman. No, I don't care about my rising rates if I don't sign my first born over to your company. No, I do not need any cleaning supplies that is said to remove stains, the only stain I will need to remove is the stain your face will make when I slam it into the concrete if you do not leave me alone. And what's with all the magazines? I don't need someone to bring them to my house to get me to buy one, if I wanted a magazine I would buy them myself.
I don't care about your woes about college and getting to Europe so you can drink beer at McDonalds And I really don't care how much you try to flatter me with all your youtube jokes you stole from that one kid. Just get off my lawn.
I know who God is, the fact you have to knock on my door and ask me is a bit disturbing, be careful the next time I might answer naked or blaring some horrible metal music to try and scare you.
I don't want any, I said it the first fifty times you asked, yet your trying to get my money still. I am starting to wonder how fast you will run if I unleash my dog on you right now.
As you keep talking I imagine my foot slamming violently into your throat and sending you flying off my porch young man with the laminated brochure, no I don't believe your story and frankly I don't give a damn.
I don't want anything, and everything I want I get it myself. GO AWAY!!
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Wednesday: Hump Day
I think after this movie every girl was ready and waiting to do the Dirty dancing scene with him! lmao
Enjoy you hump day!
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
Teaser Tuesday
Perfectly Hopeless
“I didn’t want this to happen. I
didn’t want you to have to go through this with me. I’m sorry,” he said, her
sobs growing louder, she pushed her face into his neck crying harder. She held
onto him.
“And I don’t want you to go through
this without me. I wouldn’t want you to be alone at a time like this.”
And another teaser
He stood, studying the first
picture. It was Maven wearing one of those outrageously large white hats, in a
navy blue and white polka dot bikini, one hand holding the hat down, the other
on her slim hip. The wind swept her hair behind her making it look as if it was
trying to flee. Her perfectly straight and sparkling white teeth on display for
the world to see, she really was stunning he admitted to himself, all the years
his family had stayed in Portwood he wondered how he never noticed until his
cousin did. He understood why Henri cared. He could see it in every photograph
with her in it. She had something special, she oozed something wonderful.
Monday, May 20, 2013
Meet the author Monday: Lindy Spencer
Monday has now been changed and dedicated to authors. I being one myself know how great fellow authors are, and it's always nice to share the love. So, I would like to welcome the author, Lindy Spencer to my blog.
Currently I am working on my second and third novels, with a couple more ideas circling the brain - I don't know whether its an addiction or if I've finally gone around the bend (my husband believes its the latter) but writing gives me an outlet that is totally mine. Well, mine until it hits the shelves, then its anybody's story!!
Meet the author
Hello, Lindy Spencer here - newly published indie writer with a hyper-busy life! Between working full-time and taking care of a husband and the dog, I juggle spending time with the kids, grandkids, photography, and writing another book. Love to spend time in the kitchen - cooking as well as baking - and can't wait until the grands are big enough to assist me. That will be so much fun!
For years my main focus was family. When the kids grew up and moved out of the house, it became much quieter around here. I found there was more time than I knew what to do with, and an idle mind is the perfect playground for a budding writer. My first novel, The Boomerang Effect, built an entire town as well as the characters in it - some of which left their lives a bit earlier than they'd planned, but hey, that's how a good murder mystery goes, never know who will be standing when the last page flips!
For years my main focus was family. When the kids grew up and moved out of the house, it became much quieter around here. I found there was more time than I knew what to do with, and an idle mind is the perfect playground for a budding writer. My first novel, The Boomerang Effect, built an entire town as well as the characters in it - some of which left their lives a bit earlier than they'd planned, but hey, that's how a good murder mystery goes, never know who will be standing when the last page flips!
I love to toss photography into the mix every chance I get. Shooting people in my writing as well as with a Canon gives me plenty of satisfaction. Photography has been a hobby of mine as long as I can remember. I carry a camera with me wherever I go; never know when I'm going to run across an old farmhouse that would make a great location for a tense scene, or an old bridge that cries out for a noose on a long rope to be swinging from it. Murder on the mind all the time, great props are easier to remember if you shoot a picture of them!
Speaking of photography, I've recently concluded another exciting event in my life. My very first photography exhibit, titled "Oklahoma's Rusted Route 66", was recently on display at the Historic Route 66 Museum in Clinton, Oklahoma. I have enjoyed riding my motorcycle up and down the historic route for a long time, finding different scenes to memorialize in pictures each time I do, and am honored to have been chosen to be the first photographer to have their work showcased in the newly remodeled museum.
Currently I am working on my second and third novels, with a couple more ideas circling the brain - I don't know whether its an addiction or if I've finally gone around the bend (my husband believes its the latter) but writing gives me an outlet that is totally mine. Well, mine until it hits the shelves, then its anybody's story!!
1. Tell me a bit about yourself. About me... the hardest of topics to write about! I work a full-time job, have a small photography business on the side, take care of my husband and the dog, and I juggle spending time with the kids, grandkids, photography, and writing another book. Love to spend time in the kitchen - cooking as well as baking - and can't wait until the grands are big enough to assist me. That will be so much fun!
2. When did you first consider yourself a writer? When I clicked the button to publish. I didn't really believe it until then... and it was still kind of a dream until the first sale happened. I guess that would be when I realized I really was a writer.
3. What inspired you to write your first book? I read a quote by a favorite author that went something like this: 'If you think of a story you'd like to read and it hasn't been written yet, you are charged with writing it.' I took that as a challenge and stepped up to the plate when I had my idea for The Boomerang Effect. I can't say I'm unhappy about it, either!
4. What books have influenced your life most? Oh, goodness. That's a good question. I'm mostly a fiction reader unless its for research, so I don't think there's been a book that influenced my life... entertained, yes. Influenced, I can't think of one.
5. If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor? The first writer that comes to mind is J.D. Robb, Nora Roberts' alter ego. Her writing style flows well and has given me stylistic pointers when I get stuck. I am a fan of her writing.
6. What book are you reading now? In Too Deep by Brandy L. Rivers. I'm really enjoying it and recommend it to anyone who enjoys non-typical vampire/ werewolf stories.
7. What do you like to do when you’re not writing? Photography is another love of mine. When I'm not writing, I prefer to have a camera in my hand. It's turned into a side business as well.
8. Where do you get your ideas for your books? Everywhere. I'm constantly twisting things I see in my everyday life into murder and mayhem.
9. What new author has grasped your interest? Brandy L. Rivers makes the top of the list here, as well! I recently discovered her and have quickly turned into a fan! Check out her writing style, she makes the story flow and its so easy to read!
10. If you couldn’t be an author, what would your ideal career be? Great question! I've always wanted to work with dolphins... that won't happen, of course, as I live in Oklahoma and we're a bit too landlocked for that career choice, but in a perfect world that's where you would find me.
11. What was your favorite chapter to write and why? The epilogue, absolutely. I loved bringing the reader to where I was - leaving some questions unanswered and introducing a new situation... right before closing it down. I can't stop thinking about what happened, and what's going to happen, and I like to think the readers are right there with me!
12. Why do you feel you had to tell this story? I wanted to read it. Reading a story you feel compelled to read is much more difficult if it hasn't been written yet.
13. Can you tell us about your upcoming book? The book I'm currently working on is the sequel to The Boomerang Effect. I've been bombarded with requests to write it, and if we've learned anything about Lindy, it's that she accepts the challenge!! I'm currently working on it whenever I have free time, which isn't as often as I would like, but I do expect my fans will be as happy with the story as I am, as it is unfolding itself to me.
14. How do you market your book(s)? Every way I can think of... I currently have a small shelf in a corner drug store, I have a Facebook page for my fans to visit, and I talk it up to strangers in the checkout line at the store. I've even waited in a restaurant until a customer I'd never met, who was reading, looked up from her book and I took that opportunity to approach her and ask if she read murder mysteries. She did, so I gave her a bookmark advertising mine. Marketing is all about networking and getting your name out there.
15. Do you have any advice for aspiring authors? The best piece of advice I was given as an aspiring author was DON'T QUIT. When you think you have reached a block that you can't overcome, push through or set that portion aside for awhile and work on something else. Your brain will sort it out. Whatever you do, don't quit!!
2. When did you first consider yourself a writer? When I clicked the button to publish. I didn't really believe it until then... and it was still kind of a dream until the first sale happened. I guess that would be when I realized I really was a writer.
3. What inspired you to write your first book? I read a quote by a favorite author that went something like this: 'If you think of a story you'd like to read and it hasn't been written yet, you are charged with writing it.' I took that as a challenge and stepped up to the plate when I had my idea for The Boomerang Effect. I can't say I'm unhappy about it, either!
4. What books have influenced your life most? Oh, goodness. That's a good question. I'm mostly a fiction reader unless its for research, so I don't think there's been a book that influenced my life... entertained, yes. Influenced, I can't think of one.
5. If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor? The first writer that comes to mind is J.D. Robb, Nora Roberts' alter ego. Her writing style flows well and has given me stylistic pointers when I get stuck. I am a fan of her writing.
6. What book are you reading now? In Too Deep by Brandy L. Rivers. I'm really enjoying it and recommend it to anyone who enjoys non-typical vampire/ werewolf stories.
7. What do you like to do when you’re not writing? Photography is another love of mine. When I'm not writing, I prefer to have a camera in my hand. It's turned into a side business as well.
8. Where do you get your ideas for your books? Everywhere. I'm constantly twisting things I see in my everyday life into murder and mayhem.
9. What new author has grasped your interest? Brandy L. Rivers makes the top of the list here, as well! I recently discovered her and have quickly turned into a fan! Check out her writing style, she makes the story flow and its so easy to read!
10. If you couldn’t be an author, what would your ideal career be? Great question! I've always wanted to work with dolphins... that won't happen, of course, as I live in Oklahoma and we're a bit too landlocked for that career choice, but in a perfect world that's where you would find me.
11. What was your favorite chapter to write and why? The epilogue, absolutely. I loved bringing the reader to where I was - leaving some questions unanswered and introducing a new situation... right before closing it down. I can't stop thinking about what happened, and what's going to happen, and I like to think the readers are right there with me!
12. Why do you feel you had to tell this story? I wanted to read it. Reading a story you feel compelled to read is much more difficult if it hasn't been written yet.
13. Can you tell us about your upcoming book? The book I'm currently working on is the sequel to The Boomerang Effect. I've been bombarded with requests to write it, and if we've learned anything about Lindy, it's that she accepts the challenge!! I'm currently working on it whenever I have free time, which isn't as often as I would like, but I do expect my fans will be as happy with the story as I am, as it is unfolding itself to me.
14. How do you market your book(s)? Every way I can think of... I currently have a small shelf in a corner drug store, I have a Facebook page for my fans to visit, and I talk it up to strangers in the checkout line at the store. I've even waited in a restaurant until a customer I'd never met, who was reading, looked up from her book and I took that opportunity to approach her and ask if she read murder mysteries. She did, so I gave her a bookmark advertising mine. Marketing is all about networking and getting your name out there.
15. Do you have any advice for aspiring authors? The best piece of advice I was given as an aspiring author was DON'T QUIT. When you think you have reached a block that you can't overcome, push through or set that portion aside for awhile and work on something else. Your brain will sort it out. Whatever you do, don't quit!!
Sunday, May 19, 2013
Funday Sunday
Looking for a good read?
Try the book Nevermore by Kelly Creagh. This story is dark and moody. And oh so interesting. I love this author.
Try the book Nevermore by Kelly Creagh. This story is dark and moody. And oh so interesting. I love this author.
Don't we all?
Tough Love: Things I am sure I've screamed after a good book.
1. Why, what, how did this just happen?!!
2. If only I could morph into this book and get a better look at Mchotty.
3. It can't be over! I need to know if he's dead or I'll die!!
Saturday, May 18, 2013
Friday, May 17, 2013
Finally friday
.
It's friday, so I thought for Finally Friday's blog I would share fifteen facts about myself
1.I have a sick obsession with blu rays. I love them, I have to buy them and the funniest part, most times when I do I don't even watch them. I get pleasure out of just looking at them on my shelf....I even have them in alphabetical order.
2. I have four wonderful children. My most recent baby is 4 1/2 months old. Two girls and two boys. And I must say they are incredible.
3. I love boybands. Not the new ones. I am talking the old school NKOTB and Backstreet boys. There is just something about hearing a good song from the 90's that makes my insides tingle and puts me in this mood to dance like nobody is watching.
4. My favorite food may be tuna casserole. I have yet to decide.
5. I have a horrible attention span. I get sidetracked so easily that I have to repeat what I am going to do or I will forget. Adding my fourth child to the mix intensified this even more.
6. I read my own books sometimes and get super weepy and act as if I am reading them for the first time. Sometimes I even look over at my husband and tell him how amazing the story is. (He of course laughs and shakes his head when he finds out its my book. But he never fails to agree and tell me I am the best. Love you, babe :)
7.Maybe deep down there is a little tiny part of me that wants to hear my name come out of Nicholas Spark's mouth. Be it for whatever reason. It could be because I cut in front of him at the grocery store, or how my book inspired him to quit writing. ( I kid, I kid) I love the man and respect everything he does. But seriously, I think if that happened...it would just be that moment where the earth stood still then exploded. A girl can dream.
8.Sometimes I think someone is behind me on the steps and is out to get me. Like an axe murderer. Or maybe one of those asian creepy ghost like in the grudge. I always feel like the one day that I am brave enough to be a badass and not run up the stairs will be the day she gets me. Kind of like that guy with the snacks, he tells his wife how big foot will get them and she doesn't believe him......
9. I hate hugging people goodbye. Its not my inner family (husband and kids) its just everyone else. Hugs are awkward. I'd rather not, it's not that I hate you or don't like you its just not my thing. If I insult you on the way out the door you know I love you. Hugs turn me into a bumbling stumbling weirdo. Maybe blame my mom, I'm not sure.
10. If I became a star, I just want to show up on the Today Show and Ellen. Then I'll be fine to sit at home and let the rest of the world talk about my books on their own. Me and people= Shy Ronnie. If you don't know who that is well......
11. I am impulsive and obsessive. When I get an idea I have to do it, and then two days and 55 pots of coffee later I regret trying to learn how to do a double handed backspring and settle on painting my toenails. Go big or go home, right?
12. I have recently started breastfeeding (go me!) and I must say now I feel like I have a cure to everything in the world. I feel like I should go around and heal wounds and battle skin conditions on my days off from writing. Just not sure if the old lady down the street would appreciate me squirting her with my breast milk. *shrugs*
13. My mother is the best cook in the world. And I am not joking, she can make anything and it taste good. And I am not afraid to say it to anyone's face. I've yet to meet anyone who can blow my mom's wig off in the kitchen.
14. I have a sister, her name is Tressa. She is pretty amazing. One of the most independent woman I know. She never ever ever gives up, she is so strong and she always finds a way to do everything. The thing that gets on my nerves about her, she doesn't realize just how amazing she is most days!! She is single, but not ready or allowed to mingle (because I said so) so back off people!!
15. Last but not least. I have the best husband, hands down. He is the most amazingly supportive man. He tells it like it is. He isn't afraid to hurt anyone's feelings and he really knows how to support me and make me feel like the greatest girl in the world each and everyday. I don't know how I got so lucky, but if I could just maybe have that same luck on the lotto...wow it would be awesome.
That's all for now. If your new and you enjoyed my blog let me know, we all need a pat on the back some times. Don't be afraid to say hello. If you enjoy my blog and our a fan of reading check out my books, blog, fb, anything you want. I'l even leave the links for you! Thanks!!
Author Page
Books More books or Add me on Goodreads even!
It's friday, so I thought for Finally Friday's blog I would share fifteen facts about myself
1.I have a sick obsession with blu rays. I love them, I have to buy them and the funniest part, most times when I do I don't even watch them. I get pleasure out of just looking at them on my shelf....I even have them in alphabetical order.
2. I have four wonderful children. My most recent baby is 4 1/2 months old. Two girls and two boys. And I must say they are incredible.
3. I love boybands. Not the new ones. I am talking the old school NKOTB and Backstreet boys. There is just something about hearing a good song from the 90's that makes my insides tingle and puts me in this mood to dance like nobody is watching.
4. My favorite food may be tuna casserole. I have yet to decide.
5. I have a horrible attention span. I get sidetracked so easily that I have to repeat what I am going to do or I will forget. Adding my fourth child to the mix intensified this even more.
6. I read my own books sometimes and get super weepy and act as if I am reading them for the first time. Sometimes I even look over at my husband and tell him how amazing the story is. (He of course laughs and shakes his head when he finds out its my book. But he never fails to agree and tell me I am the best. Love you, babe :)
7.Maybe deep down there is a little tiny part of me that wants to hear my name come out of Nicholas Spark's mouth. Be it for whatever reason. It could be because I cut in front of him at the grocery store, or how my book inspired him to quit writing. ( I kid, I kid) I love the man and respect everything he does. But seriously, I think if that happened...it would just be that moment where the earth stood still then exploded. A girl can dream.
8.Sometimes I think someone is behind me on the steps and is out to get me. Like an axe murderer. Or maybe one of those asian creepy ghost like in the grudge. I always feel like the one day that I am brave enough to be a badass and not run up the stairs will be the day she gets me. Kind of like that guy with the snacks, he tells his wife how big foot will get them and she doesn't believe him......
9. I hate hugging people goodbye. Its not my inner family (husband and kids) its just everyone else. Hugs are awkward. I'd rather not, it's not that I hate you or don't like you its just not my thing. If I insult you on the way out the door you know I love you. Hugs turn me into a bumbling stumbling weirdo. Maybe blame my mom, I'm not sure.
10. If I became a star, I just want to show up on the Today Show and Ellen. Then I'll be fine to sit at home and let the rest of the world talk about my books on their own. Me and people= Shy Ronnie. If you don't know who that is well......
11. I am impulsive and obsessive. When I get an idea I have to do it, and then two days and 55 pots of coffee later I regret trying to learn how to do a double handed backspring and settle on painting my toenails. Go big or go home, right?
12. I have recently started breastfeeding (go me!) and I must say now I feel like I have a cure to everything in the world. I feel like I should go around and heal wounds and battle skin conditions on my days off from writing. Just not sure if the old lady down the street would appreciate me squirting her with my breast milk. *shrugs*
13. My mother is the best cook in the world. And I am not joking, she can make anything and it taste good. And I am not afraid to say it to anyone's face. I've yet to meet anyone who can blow my mom's wig off in the kitchen.
14. I have a sister, her name is Tressa. She is pretty amazing. One of the most independent woman I know. She never ever ever gives up, she is so strong and she always finds a way to do everything. The thing that gets on my nerves about her, she doesn't realize just how amazing she is most days!! She is single, but not ready or allowed to mingle (because I said so) so back off people!!
15. Last but not least. I have the best husband, hands down. He is the most amazingly supportive man. He tells it like it is. He isn't afraid to hurt anyone's feelings and he really knows how to support me and make me feel like the greatest girl in the world each and everyday. I don't know how I got so lucky, but if I could just maybe have that same luck on the lotto...wow it would be awesome.
That's all for now. If your new and you enjoyed my blog let me know, we all need a pat on the back some times. Don't be afraid to say hello. If you enjoy my blog and our a fan of reading check out my books, blog, fb, anything you want. I'l even leave the links for you! Thanks!!
Author Page
Books More books or Add me on Goodreads even!
Thursday, May 16, 2013
Thirsty Thursday: Drunk Uncle Edition (Husband post)
So, this week some news came out that really struck my core. The US Air Force Military leaders decided it would be ok to just throw the remains of over 200 fallen heroes in the dump.
Let that register for a bit.
Are you as disgusted as I am? This sickens me not only as an American but as a Veteran of the US Army who served in Iraq.
I can't imagine the horror the families of these fallen hero's must be going through. To think that our country, who's freedom depends on these outstanding men and women of our military, can allow something like this to happen further lessons my faith in our goverment. If you didn't hear about this its probably because some celebrity got pregnant or divorced or is expecting a baby. Our society has gotten to the point to where they care more about Kim Kardashian's baby bump rather than the what happens in the United States. I have nothing against celebrities and what they do, but when there news trumps something like this it just makes me shake my head.
Sunday, May 12, 2013
Thursday, May 9, 2013
Thirsty Thursday: Drunk Uncle edition/ Rob (Holly's Husband edition)
Warning he Cusses.
Why is it that the employee who works the hardest is always treated the worst? Why is it the employees who are the laziest get the most fucking pay? These two things have bothered me in every job I have had from selling hot tubs to being in the Military. When you work hard your held to a different standard than the ones who aren't worth the air you breathe. These are the reasons I need to hit the lotto, open my own business and well, I guess treat those same employees the same way because I guess that's just the way this fucked up world works. Why is it so hard to quit smoking? I know, off topic but I've been trying to give up the crap sticks for a while and can't seem to break the disgusting habit. Maybe its because I enjoy killing myself slowly or maybe its because there's something in the cigarettes that is similar to crack cocaine, no I've never tried crack cocaine but I imagine its similar. That's enough for now, I will be back when the wife lets me, if she ever lets me
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Tuesday Teaser
The book is almost finished. And because of this I am giving all of you a wonderful teaser for this Tuesday's teaser. Try saying that three times fast.
Ink 3 is going to be a wild ride for all you Ink fans. I can't wait for all of you to read what chaos Hope has to deal with this time. I have enjoyed writing this book, and I can not wait until it's for sale for all the fans.
Ink 3 is going to be a wild ride for all you Ink fans. I can't wait for all of you to read what chaos Hope has to deal with this time. I have enjoyed writing this book, and I can not wait until it's for sale for all the fans.
“But, Dad, what if this isn’t a fad?” I couldn’t
believe he was so quick to brush it all under the rug.
“This is real life, Hope,” Dad said. “Witches don’t
exist. Girls don’t fall in love with vampires. Everything is going to be fine.”
“If she really knows magic she needs to do a spell to adjust
that shitty attitude she has all of a sudden,” Nona said. “I may not be a
witch, but I will knock her right off that broomstick if she keeps this up.”
“Everything is falling apart.” I pulled at my hair in
misery. “My life is just disintegrating right in front of me and I don’t know
what to do about it.”
“Look tinkerbell, this isn’t the place for you.” The guy
said. “So why don’t you and gidget get the hell out of here.”
Karsen stepped back appalled. “Tinkerbell?” She balled her
fist as if she was actually thinking about hitting him.
Don't forget to enter the giveaway for a chance to win the Ink bundle or Black moon!
Thursday, May 2, 2013
Thirsty Thursday : Drunk Uncle style
I am back for my weekly unedited rant. So here goes.....Why can't people be more like books. At least when I write a book the characters are honest and don't give a shit about what others think of them. And the ones that do, well they learn eventually. Why do we act like we care and than turn around and prove just how much of a moron we are. How come some people can't give other's space? Is it that hard to let someone enjoy life without a crippling smothering hoverer always on top of them. Why is it so much nicer to sit at home and enjoy life? Oh yeah that's right, because everything I can stand is in my home. The things I can't stand are outside of it.
Why do we jump on bandwagons, why are we so quick to complain about the stupidest things on facebook? Since when was facebook the place to dump all your verbal crap so us people who are there to actually enjoy ourselves have to sift through it. Why is my husband such a violent game player? The words that come out of his mouth would make a sailor blush. And how come the best things in life are so simple yet just amazing. Like seeing your husband's tweet show up on the nfl channel. And I am done....
Feel free to comment and show me your drunk uncle.
And don't forget to enter the giveaway!!
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
Wednesday: Hump Day
M Shadows
And here is my choice for hump day. M Shadows. I'm sure some of you may know who he is. If not, he is the singer of the group Avenged Sevenfold. The music is awesome, their style is awesome. And if you didn't know he is also my choice for Slade if by some miracle the book ever turned into a movie or television show. He fits the role perfectly. And I would die if that ever came true and I saw the book come to life, how awesome would that be? Anyways....I love his voice. One of my favorite songs is Dear god. As well as buried alive. So many to choose from.
Don't forget to enter the giveaway! And don't forget to share your choice of hottie of the day with me!
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