We write like we eat: plan the book (idea), write an outline, write chapter-by-chapter, plan the meal, cook the meal, eat the meal bite-by-bite.
We can't really get to the last part unless we do the first two parts. Even if we eat a lot of fast food, we still have to decide where to go and what to order. You can't skip parts.
Seasonings are the feelings and settings you put into your book. I could write a lovely few lines like this:
I walked to the fridge and pulled out hot dogs. I popped one into the microwave and heated it for a minute, then added ketchup and sat down to eat. When I was done, I cleaned my place and headed to get out of my pajamas so I could go to the store.
You get the idea of what I'm doing but I certainly seem like I'm a zombie and have zero emotion, right? Let's try again:
I felt hunger pangs for the first time since the incident occurred so I shuffled over to the old fridge that looked like something from 1972 (much like the kitchen it was in) and jerked the door open to peer inside. I scanned the contents and let out a heavy sigh before I settled on hot dogs. I slammed them down on the counter and slit open the package with a knife from the block nearby. Digging out one of the dogs, I grabbed a paper towel and wrapped it up like a caterpillar in a cocoon before popping it into the microwave and pressing the button that would get me thirty seconds of nuke time.
While the appliance whirred, I stuffed the remaining hot dogs into a bag, zipped it closed, and reached for a paper plate. Tears filled my eyes again as I thought about what happened and my head screamed How could this happen to me? Haven't I endured enough? I got a less-than-satisfying ding, opened the microwave, and grabbed my breakfast. After I plopped it on the plate, I stuffed the leftovers back into the fridge and grabbed the ketchup. I squirted a squiggly line next to my dog and popped the bottle back into the still open fridge; slamming the door.
Shuffling to the two-person table that was situated under the naked bulb in my sparse dining room made me feel like all my energy was suddenly being drained from my body. I sat down and ate my meal while fat tears rolled down my face and plopped into my already-watery ketchup. Sighing, I stood and took my small mess to the over-full trash can before heading to change out of my pajamas for the first time in a week so I could go to the store.
Now, even though you have no idea why I feel the way I feel, you have more emotional response than with the first section, right? You know something is troubling the poor soul that's being spoken about, right? Would you read on to find out what's wrong?
I'm building suspense to my plight by letting you into my thoughts and emotions before telling you what's going on. It's a useful trick to pickup and also useful to see the opposite way and realize how you can pare down and remove emotion and scenery. All I did was add a few spices to your meal.
If you haven't picked one up yet, go get a copy of one of my books. There's something for everyone there!
Well, that's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
Showing posts with label NOOK. Show all posts
Showing posts with label NOOK. Show all posts
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
Monday, July 9, 2012
Frustrations - Solved
One of my biggest headaches as a writer is the bulk of my laptop and the slim loveliness of my iPad and iPhone. When I'm at my desk at home, I prefer to write on my laptop. When I'm on the go, I prefer my iPhone. When I'm traveling, I prefer my iPad.
This creates a huge problem for me: synchronization. I write something on my laptop only to have to e-mail it to myself in a document that I can only read on my other devices. Or, I write something on my iPad and have to copy/paste it and send it as an e-mail to be opened on my laptop. As you can imagine, this hinders my workflow and slows me down. Even if I had a document reader on my other devices that was harmonious, I'd still have to either e-mail or sync whatever I'm working on.
If you haven't heard of Evernote, I'm about to blow your mind. This application is FREE and will absolutely change the way you write and take notes forever. It works on almost every device known.
But what does it do, Jo?
That's the sweetest part of all! Evernote allows you to capture photos, take notes, write, outline, or do anything related to writing. Then, it allows you to access and update your document from ANY of the devices you have it installed on. You can even keyword your notes so you can find them with a simple search! Do you have six WIPs? Keyword them with the name and pull up all related notes with a snap. As a bonus, they give you a specialized e-mail address so you can send things to yourself from other computers or devices and have them stored instantly on your Evernote! HOLY MOLY, BATMAN!
I am blown away. I've been looking for an app just like Evernote since I started college. Now that I'm writing full-time, it gives me unlimited ability to work whenever, wherever. What are you waiting for? Go get one!
I have another little tidbit that I'm going to throw in here: I published my book The Indie Author's Guide to: Building a Great Book over the weekend and I'm selling it on Amazon for just $2.99. If you read my blog, you'll know that I hold a degree in Graphic Design. Section Six of the book walks you through making your printed book look like it was done by a professional. All previous sections discuss things like branding yourself, getting a logo, and how to use color.
No more head-banging or tearing out your hair! Talk about a post full of things to make your life as a writer easier. I know, I am too kind *grin*
I'm now going to give you a few examples of book covers I have designed using the suggestions and guidelines found in my book. Enjoy!
Please note that Crystal Lee's name appears in the same font and in the same place on both covers. Also note that only two fonts were used on each cover.
Canopy is currently available in digital and paperback formats. Crystal's book on Organic Gardening will be available soon.
Ms. Chelsea Black's book also uses only two fonts and the colors are harmonious and beautiful. If you'd like to delve into her book, you can purchase it digitally.
All of these design lessons and more can be learned in my book. I give you a ton of references and a ton of information in under 15k words.
Don't forget to enter the Goodreads giveaway for your chance at a copy of The Abigale Chronicles - Book Two. Two signed copies are available!!
Well, that's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
This creates a huge problem for me: synchronization. I write something on my laptop only to have to e-mail it to myself in a document that I can only read on my other devices. Or, I write something on my iPad and have to copy/paste it and send it as an e-mail to be opened on my laptop. As you can imagine, this hinders my workflow and slows me down. Even if I had a document reader on my other devices that was harmonious, I'd still have to either e-mail or sync whatever I'm working on.
If you haven't heard of Evernote, I'm about to blow your mind. This application is FREE and will absolutely change the way you write and take notes forever. It works on almost every device known.
But what does it do, Jo?
That's the sweetest part of all! Evernote allows you to capture photos, take notes, write, outline, or do anything related to writing. Then, it allows you to access and update your document from ANY of the devices you have it installed on. You can even keyword your notes so you can find them with a simple search! Do you have six WIPs? Keyword them with the name and pull up all related notes with a snap. As a bonus, they give you a specialized e-mail address so you can send things to yourself from other computers or devices and have them stored instantly on your Evernote! HOLY MOLY, BATMAN!
I am blown away. I've been looking for an app just like Evernote since I started college. Now that I'm writing full-time, it gives me unlimited ability to work whenever, wherever. What are you waiting for? Go get one!
I have another little tidbit that I'm going to throw in here: I published my book The Indie Author's Guide to: Building a Great Book over the weekend and I'm selling it on Amazon for just $2.99. If you read my blog, you'll know that I hold a degree in Graphic Design. Section Six of the book walks you through making your printed book look like it was done by a professional. All previous sections discuss things like branding yourself, getting a logo, and how to use color.
No more head-banging or tearing out your hair! Talk about a post full of things to make your life as a writer easier. I know, I am too kind *grin*
I'm now going to give you a few examples of book covers I have designed using the suggestions and guidelines found in my book. Enjoy!
Please note that Crystal Lee's name appears in the same font and in the same place on both covers. Also note that only two fonts were used on each cover.
Canopy is currently available in digital and paperback formats. Crystal's book on Organic Gardening will be available soon.
Ms. Chelsea Black's book also uses only two fonts and the colors are harmonious and beautiful. If you'd like to delve into her book, you can purchase it digitally.
All of these design lessons and more can be learned in my book. I give you a ton of references and a ton of information in under 15k words.
Don't forget to enter the Goodreads giveaway for your chance at a copy of The Abigale Chronicles - Book Two. Two signed copies are available!!
Well, that's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
Friday, July 6, 2012
The F-Word
Today's post is brought to you by the letter F. F is one of those letters that dwells at the beginning of some of the most vulgar and some of the nicest words. Let's take a tour of F-words, shall we?
Fun. We all love to have fun. Fields of flowers are brought to mind when I think of having fun. Frolicking through them, flying through on a four-wheeler, and feeling perfectly at ease are all resons behind me loving that particular setting.
Did you see what I did there? Moving on...
Fancy. When we put on our fabulous frocks, we feel fancy (and look fantastic, too). I'm reminded of friends and foes gathered together at feasts I attended. Furthermore, I'm reminded of fur wraps and fedoras when I think of the word fancy.
Flippant. Freaking full of themselves is what flippant people are. Fiery flashes of force are flung from their mouths before they realize they are fighting futilely.
Friendly. Of all the F-words, I like friendly the most. When we're feeling forlorn, we can strike up a feud with a well known friend and engage in fulfilling conversation. Our friends don't fight back, they fill our hearts with banter that leaves us feeling empowered and understanding that our future is in good hands.
Okay, that was a lot of F-words. But you can see just how wide the range is. I left off one four letter F-word because you all know it and the extent of its vulgarity. No need to hash it out here (though that might be interesting one day). I hope you all begin to take note of F-words and realize that not all of them are dreaded.
Another little note for all you fiends out there. Oh my... I can't stop, can I?
The Abigale Chronicles - Book Two is FREE at Amazon tomorrow and Sunday. If you want a good read for the weekend, go get a copy. If you haven't read book one, there are a couple of ways to get one of those as well: Buy one at Amazon (just $1.99!) or purchase Yassa at Smashwords (there's a code in the back for a free copy!).
I'm also launching the giveaway on Goodreads on Monday. Come back here for the linky!
Now, I'd like to hear from all of you! What's your favorite F-word? Remember the rules of my blog now and keep it clean and friendly!
Well, that's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
Fun. We all love to have fun. Fields of flowers are brought to mind when I think of having fun. Frolicking through them, flying through on a four-wheeler, and feeling perfectly at ease are all resons behind me loving that particular setting.
Did you see what I did there? Moving on...
Fancy. When we put on our fabulous frocks, we feel fancy (and look fantastic, too). I'm reminded of friends and foes gathered together at feasts I attended. Furthermore, I'm reminded of fur wraps and fedoras when I think of the word fancy.
Flippant. Freaking full of themselves is what flippant people are. Fiery flashes of force are flung from their mouths before they realize they are fighting futilely.
Friendly. Of all the F-words, I like friendly the most. When we're feeling forlorn, we can strike up a feud with a well known friend and engage in fulfilling conversation. Our friends don't fight back, they fill our hearts with banter that leaves us feeling empowered and understanding that our future is in good hands.
Okay, that was a lot of F-words. But you can see just how wide the range is. I left off one four letter F-word because you all know it and the extent of its vulgarity. No need to hash it out here (though that might be interesting one day). I hope you all begin to take note of F-words and realize that not all of them are dreaded.
Another little note for all you fiends out there. Oh my... I can't stop, can I?
The Abigale Chronicles - Book Two is FREE at Amazon tomorrow and Sunday. If you want a good read for the weekend, go get a copy. If you haven't read book one, there are a couple of ways to get one of those as well: Buy one at Amazon (just $1.99!) or purchase Yassa at Smashwords (there's a code in the back for a free copy!).
I'm also launching the giveaway on Goodreads on Monday. Come back here for the linky!
Now, I'd like to hear from all of you! What's your favorite F-word? Remember the rules of my blog now and keep it clean and friendly!
Well, that's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
Thursday, July 5, 2012
The Indie Author's Guide
Yesterday I wrote almost five thousand words. Drivel, unimaginative, lonely words. Why? Because I'm writing a non-fiction book. It's title is: The Indie Author's Guide to Building a Great E-Book.
Why am I writing this book? Because I've realized there's a huge need for it. Can you find a lot of the information online and in textbooks? Possibly. But I give you links for that. Consider it a book that brings all you need to create a dynamite e-book together in one place.
So, why would someone buy this book? Because of section six. I am a graphic designer and if you want to know how to create a print version of your book, I walk you through step by step. I also teach you how to avoid common pitfalls in the publishing process.
Okay, but I have no desire to create a printed version of my book, Jo! Maybe not today, but possibly tomorrow. I give you advice on how to build your book cover today so you won't be sorry tomorrow.
I give you some great marketing and branding ideas, and a collection of useful links with a number of reviews on each publishing platform. You've seen a taste of what kind of information you'll get in the book here on my blog. If you missed those posts, click here, here, here, or here to pay them a visit.
It's going to take me a few weeks to finish the book but it will be a wealth of information for any indie author. Even the most inexperienced of people will be able to build a fantastic e-book by following along with me.
Keep your eyes here for news on release dates and those great Abigale giveaways!
That's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
Why am I writing this book? Because I've realized there's a huge need for it. Can you find a lot of the information online and in textbooks? Possibly. But I give you links for that. Consider it a book that brings all you need to create a dynamite e-book together in one place.
So, why would someone buy this book? Because of section six. I am a graphic designer and if you want to know how to create a print version of your book, I walk you through step by step. I also teach you how to avoid common pitfalls in the publishing process.
Okay, but I have no desire to create a printed version of my book, Jo! Maybe not today, but possibly tomorrow. I give you advice on how to build your book cover today so you won't be sorry tomorrow.
I give you some great marketing and branding ideas, and a collection of useful links with a number of reviews on each publishing platform. You've seen a taste of what kind of information you'll get in the book here on my blog. If you missed those posts, click here, here, here, or here to pay them a visit.
It's going to take me a few weeks to finish the book but it will be a wealth of information for any indie author. Even the most inexperienced of people will be able to build a fantastic e-book by following along with me.
Keep your eyes here for news on release dates and those great Abigale giveaways!
That's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
Wednesday, July 4, 2012
Fetters for the Fourth
Today, I am chained to my desk. Tonight, I am chained to my desk. I will prepare my non-fiction book for publication and write one volume of the Mystic series by the end of this month. My fetters grow ever heavier.
Some people take the 4th of July off, but a writer's work is never done. Some days I wish my book sales would pick up and give me a reason to keep writing. But then I remember, I don't write to make money (that would be an exercise in futility). I write because I have stories to tell and I want people to read them.
When someone says my book had a strong impact on them, I have been paid. I'm the richest person in the world when I make someone else smile or stop and think. That is why I write and it keeps me going every day. Well, that and The Best Boyfriend in the World.
I'm honestly the luckiest person on the planet. I have him, five great kids, a great mom, a wonderful little dog, and my virtual besties. I'm able to do what I love every day. I couldn't ask for more.
But I do sometimes. I admit it. I wish I could think my books into existence, I wish I didn't wear my heart on my sleeve, and I wish for peace in my soul. But, I think if any of those things truly changed, I would not be able to write. I type and think about what happens next, feel very deeply everything that is said to me, and have chaos in my soul (making me a tortured artist). Escape in my words is all that keeps me sane.
You writers know how I feel.
Happy 4th of July, everyone.
Don't forget to watch my blog for the announcement of the first couple of FREE days for The Abigale Chronicles - Book Two. I won't post it anywhere else. Let's see how many of you are excited about it.
That's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
Some people take the 4th of July off, but a writer's work is never done. Some days I wish my book sales would pick up and give me a reason to keep writing. But then I remember, I don't write to make money (that would be an exercise in futility). I write because I have stories to tell and I want people to read them.
When someone says my book had a strong impact on them, I have been paid. I'm the richest person in the world when I make someone else smile or stop and think. That is why I write and it keeps me going every day. Well, that and The Best Boyfriend in the World.
I'm honestly the luckiest person on the planet. I have him, five great kids, a great mom, a wonderful little dog, and my virtual besties. I'm able to do what I love every day. I couldn't ask for more.
But I do sometimes. I admit it. I wish I could think my books into existence, I wish I didn't wear my heart on my sleeve, and I wish for peace in my soul. But, I think if any of those things truly changed, I would not be able to write. I type and think about what happens next, feel very deeply everything that is said to me, and have chaos in my soul (making me a tortured artist). Escape in my words is all that keeps me sane.
You writers know how I feel.
Happy 4th of July, everyone.
Don't forget to watch my blog for the announcement of the first couple of FREE days for The Abigale Chronicles - Book Two. I won't post it anywhere else. Let's see how many of you are excited about it.
That's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
Tuesday, July 3, 2012
Published and an Award!
As you all are aware, The Abigale Chronicles - Book Two published today. WOOHOO!
I will give you all a synopsis meow :)
Twelve-year-old Abigale Fontenot is struggling to figure out whether her adventures are real or imagined. After an adventure with Amazonion women in book one, Abigale and Emmett have formed a bond through mutual trust and secrets, but Kristy has turned against Abigale because of it. Now, Abigale again finds herself in a precarious situation with a city full of talking cats. Emmett is once more by her side as she faces down a vicious cat queen in an attempt to avoid certain death and restore the leadership of the city to its rightful owner. Will they succeed, or will they be roasted alive? What will happen when Kristy overhears the discussions about the adventures with Ada?
You can purchase the digital copy here:
Amazon.com
Exciting news: My book will be available for free on select days. You must visit my blog daily to find out when the free promotion begins and ends. It won't be posted anywhere else.
Yes, that's an evil laugh you hear.
Don't forget to watch my blog for the Goodreads giveaway badge you all know is coming. I may do three signed copies this time. You gotta enter to win!
I have had a lengthy discussion with my daughter about book three. I have written this synopsis based on the idea. I hope you enjoy it.
The Abigale Chronicles - Book Three
Abigale Fontenot is turning thirteen. Just when she thinks her birthday couldn't possibly get any worse, a new adventure takes hold. Abigale and Emmett are whisked away to a world of fantasy where knights, dragons, and princesses are the order of the day. Abigale is kidnapped by an evil prince in a nearby kingdom, and it's up to Emmett to rescue her. But Abigale finds that escape is not the most important thing; restoring the evil prince's kindness that has been locked away in a magical book by a wicked sorceress must come first. While Emmett is trying to rescue Abigale, she is trying to free the prince from his curse. Will she succeed in her quest before the evil prince kills Emmett, or will she fail and lose her new best friend? Will death matter if the whole thing is a dream, or are the adventures real and truly dangerous?
Now for the award!
Ms. Moonduster over at Imagine! Create! Write! gave me the one lovely blog award.
So, a huge shout out of THANKS to her! The rules of the nomination are thus:
I have to tell you seven things about myself and I have to nominate six to ten other bloggers to receive the award and then let them know they got it.
Here goes:
1. I have five children.
2. I read 300+ books in my third grade year alone.
3. I know fairy tales that no one has ever heard of.
4. I'm 5'7" tall.
5. I took 5 years to get a 2 year degree because I wanted to study everything.
6. I have a nearly photographic memory.
7. I have strict philosophies on life and living that I plan to introduce to my blog at some point.
Now you know: I'm a serious book nerd who remembers everything she has ever read.
And the award is passed on to:
Judith Cassis
Laura Orsini (a.k.a. Marcie Brock)
Lisa Cherry
Liberty Montano
Tia Bach
Merlene Fawdry
Rachel Thomas
And that's all of em!! Ladies, feel free to use that beautiful badge up top and do eet!!
That's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
I will give you all a synopsis meow :)
Twelve-year-old Abigale Fontenot is struggling to figure out whether her adventures are real or imagined. After an adventure with Amazonion women in book one, Abigale and Emmett have formed a bond through mutual trust and secrets, but Kristy has turned against Abigale because of it. Now, Abigale again finds herself in a precarious situation with a city full of talking cats. Emmett is once more by her side as she faces down a vicious cat queen in an attempt to avoid certain death and restore the leadership of the city to its rightful owner. Will they succeed, or will they be roasted alive? What will happen when Kristy overhears the discussions about the adventures with Ada?
You can purchase the digital copy here:
Amazon.com
Exciting news: My book will be available for free on select days. You must visit my blog daily to find out when the free promotion begins and ends. It won't be posted anywhere else.
Yes, that's an evil laugh you hear.
Don't forget to watch my blog for the Goodreads giveaway badge you all know is coming. I may do three signed copies this time. You gotta enter to win!
I have had a lengthy discussion with my daughter about book three. I have written this synopsis based on the idea. I hope you enjoy it.
The Abigale Chronicles - Book Three
Abigale Fontenot is turning thirteen. Just when she thinks her birthday couldn't possibly get any worse, a new adventure takes hold. Abigale and Emmett are whisked away to a world of fantasy where knights, dragons, and princesses are the order of the day. Abigale is kidnapped by an evil prince in a nearby kingdom, and it's up to Emmett to rescue her. But Abigale finds that escape is not the most important thing; restoring the evil prince's kindness that has been locked away in a magical book by a wicked sorceress must come first. While Emmett is trying to rescue Abigale, she is trying to free the prince from his curse. Will she succeed in her quest before the evil prince kills Emmett, or will she fail and lose her new best friend? Will death matter if the whole thing is a dream, or are the adventures real and truly dangerous?
Now for the award!
Ms. Moonduster over at Imagine! Create! Write! gave me the one lovely blog award.
So, a huge shout out of THANKS to her! The rules of the nomination are thus:
I have to tell you seven things about myself and I have to nominate six to ten other bloggers to receive the award and then let them know they got it.
Here goes:
1. I have five children.
2. I read 300+ books in my third grade year alone.
3. I know fairy tales that no one has ever heard of.
4. I'm 5'7" tall.
5. I took 5 years to get a 2 year degree because I wanted to study everything.
6. I have a nearly photographic memory.
7. I have strict philosophies on life and living that I plan to introduce to my blog at some point.
Now you know: I'm a serious book nerd who remembers everything she has ever read.
And the award is passed on to:
Judith Cassis
Laura Orsini (a.k.a. Marcie Brock)
Lisa Cherry
Liberty Montano
Tia Bach
Merlene Fawdry
Rachel Thomas
And that's all of em!! Ladies, feel free to use that beautiful badge up top and do eet!!
That's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
Monday, July 2, 2012
Interview with Crystal Lee Author of Canopy
Today, I bring you author Crystal Lee; the lady behind Canopy.
Author of historical fiction, romance, and her science fiction series, Canopy. Also working on some non-fiction works on organic gardening in Arizona and an informative book on breastfeeding after breast cancer. All coming soon...
Author of historical fiction, romance, and her science fiction series, Canopy. Also working on some non-fiction works on organic gardening in Arizona and an informative book on breastfeeding after breast cancer. All coming soon...
1.) Tell us a little about yourself. How did
you start writing?
I grew up with a dad that wrote screenplays constantly
on an old clunky typewriter. I never, ever wanted to be a writer even though I
was pretty good at it. But about 2 years ago I was struggling with some
personal problems I couldn’t talk to a lot of people about, and I found writing
cathartic. It started out as Twilight Fan Fiction, and after I entered The
Writer’s Coffee Shop original romance contest in September of 2011 and won with
what is now my 2nd story in my Canopy
series, I started taking my writing seriously. It was time to publish…
2.) Do you have any other interests?
Yes, a ton. I am an avid organic
gardener and in Phoenix, Arizona that’s kind of unique since our
climate is soooo hostile. I teach classes on organic gardening locally at
Honeyville Farms. I’m publishing my first book on organic gardening basics next
month and plan to write 2 more on the same subject geared toward our short
seasons. I’m also a registered International Board Certified Lactation
Consultant and have been a La Leche League leader for over a decade. I plan to
write on the subject of breastfeeding after breast cancer down the road as
well. I also used to be a Bradley natural childbirth instructor (also for almost
a decade) and plan to write about unassisted birthing at home. A lot of my
passions bleed over into my writing whether I want them to or not. They’re
ingrained in me. I love helping mothers succeed with having the kind of labor,
birth, and breastfeeding experience they want to have.
I also love to read and cook.
Although since I started writing we’ve been having much less preparation-wise time
consuming meals on the table. :D
3.) On your blog, you have a post about your Christianity. Does your religion
have any bearing on your writing?
Yes, it does. It’s not done on purpose. I
actually try to keep religion out of my writing along with my convictions on
childbirthing and breastfeeding but they just won’t stay out of every story.
Some of them it’s easier than others, but it happens. It’s part of my passion
once again, finds its way in there. I never intended Canopy to involve religion at all, but it took root and wouldn’t
let up. As writers, we write about what we know. Only I like to tweak what I
know and ask thought provoking questions and then present an entirely unique
perspective on an answer or possibly on another question (sometimes it gets me
in trouble). I, however, do not share what my religion is because I don’t think
it has any bearing. I want my work to speak to anybody that reads it regardless
of religious beliefs or even with an atheistic view point. I respect all
opinions on religion. That’s one of the things I love about science fiction—it
breaches those gaps and speaks to people on a basic level.
4.) Your Canopy books are romance novels that are based in science fiction.
Do you have worries that some people will be put off by the sci-fi aspect?
No, not really because the science fiction is in the background, the white
noise behind the plot. It has an impact on the characters and the plot, but
it’s not the main focus. I was writing a romance story and thought of the
science fiction as the backdrop or setting. They could have been on a boat
about to be devoured by a massive shark, and I still would have been writing a
romance, not an action/adventure or science fiction story. But I classify it as
science fiction because there are times that romances get a bad rap and get
thrown in with harlequins. I have no problem with harlequin romance, but that’s
not what I write. I like to think of it like the Oscars where the comedies get
snubbed and aren’t taken seriously. I want this story to be taken seriously, so
I put it under the category of science fiction instead of romance. I think it
also gives it a little more definition so people know what to expect.
5.) I have to ask! Where did the idea of inhaling BUGS come from?
Ha! I
have a warped mind, and I’m always asking ‘what if’ questions. In the summers
here in Phoenix it’s very hot (a lot of days at 110° or higher) and when it’s
that blazing bake-your-skin-off hot, the only bugs besides wasps you see are
usually clouds of white gnats floating along in your backyard. I remember one
day looking out my back window and thinking, “if I walked right into them out
in the sunlight I wouldn’t see them and could possibly breathe them in.” It
grossed me out, but it also intrigued me to think about what could happen if
they survived that. Would they latch onto my lungs for survival? And if they
did, what would happen to me? Would I change? And the process went on and on
and on and on. Then it turned into the vision of a mother dying in a hospital
room and releasing those gnats into the air. Would the daughter breathe them in
for her mother if she had rejected inhaling them all along based on her own
principals? Would she do it to win her mother’s respect or love if that’s what
all of society was doing and her mother wanted her to? The ending of book 2 was
born. And I was a little more twisted than before. That was 19 years ago, and
it hasn’t stopped. :P
6.) What have been the biggest challenges you've faced thus far in your
writing career?
Family opposing me. I showed one of my family members the
first chapter to book 4 (the steamiest of all my books in that series) and they
were appalled at what I wrote. We exchanged some heated emails and finally I
gave up with them, realizing they were never going to like what I write so I
stopped worrying about it.
Other issues have been gaining
weight from writing so much and being too stationary. I’m normally a fairly
active person but I get obsessive with my writing and have trouble stopping at
times. I also struggle with having a messy house. I’m a fairly neat person.
The biggest issue though is
worrying about possible backlash from the people I associate with the most that
have no idea how I really think. They will be surprised at how passionate and
steamy my stuff is. The people that know me best have always known I’m a very
intense individual but there are some that might reject me. I’m okay with it
now, but for awhile it kept me from wanting to publish. I’ve been ostracized
before merely because of my childbirthing, breastfeeding and parenting choices.
I survived that and can survive this too.
7.) Do you have any advice for a new author who wants to go the indie
route
Do your homework like mad. Don’t rush in. I’ve seen people do that;
they go ahead and publish and have no idea how to market it or how to get an
audience. You can publish any time you are ready, so why not do it right from
the start? Also, develop a thick skin. People are going to love your stuff, but
there will also be those that either don’t get it or hate it with a passion.
That’s okay. I always think to myself that I want a reaction and the stronger
the better. It means I hit a nerve somewhere, and when a nerve is hit it can
mean there is truth to what I’ve said. Some people don’t want to hear the
truth, but it doesn’t mean I’m going to stop telling it or pushing. My goal as
a writer is to have an impact on the reader’s emotions. If I did that, then I
succeeded (and hopefully they will love it rather than come after me with pitch
forks).
8.) Do you have any other books in the works?
Oh, you’re gonna be sorry
you asked that. Here’s what I’ve got and will be publishing for the next 3
years (most of these are halfway done):
- 2 gardening books (1 for summer and 1 for winter)
- Currently writing the 6th book in the Canopy series (should be the final book)
- Breastfeeding after Breast Cancer
- Birth Your Way (this is a 6 week class I developed and taught myself. I’m turning it into a how-to manual)
- A romance series called Swim, Tadpole, Swim (with a much older woman and younger man)
- Scrapping Tin (a science fiction romance story involving robots and genetic manipulations)
- Slick as Ides (a science fiction romance)
- Shroag 50 (a time travel science fiction romance, may turn into a short series)
- Hart Coursing: a series on Henry VIII (already wrote the 1st book and plan to write 2 more. Told entirely in POV and we get to see how he was actually a victim in a lot of what happened in his reign. I have a very unique perspective on him.)
- Time of Salt (a science fiction apocalypse story of hidden identities and cults)
- And right now I’ve been completely absorbed and obsessed with a very steamy series I’m writing for myself alone. I’ll never publish it because frankly, it’s too darn erotic and nobody I know would ever be able to read it. Call it my own little self indulgence.
Summary:
As Earth’s pollution problems increase in the year 2042, Jash Lepitt has decisions to make. Does he take the responsible route, fusing by inhaling DOOGS: specialized alien species of gnats that will genetically enhance him? Or does he remain flawed; be discriminated against by a society rewarding fused people? Desperate to win over Lissy Darrish, he questions it because she’s a Danat—a purist opposed to changing the body. In addition to her convictions, she’s also falling in love with a Danat, Tryst Navar. Devoting his time to protecting her from Tryst is harder than it seems for Jash. Tryst witnessed a friend of his being attacked by aggressive DOOGS while on the job building houses in the treetops. What will happen when all three of them become involved in the secrecy of the canopy’s DOOGS? And will Lissy risk being with Jash when being intimate can possibly contaminate her?
Don't forget, The Abigale Chronicles - Book Two releases tomorrow in print and for Kindle! If you haven't read book one, go get your copy today!
Well, that's it for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
Saturday, June 23, 2012
Book Sales
Today's prompt from the Author Blog Challenge:
If your goal is to sell books, you must view your book as a business. In what ways do you treat your book as a business? Where could you improve? What resources could you leverage to improve your book business?
Actually, my take on this is a bit different. I am the business and the books are my product. Treating my books as product makes me want to deliver the best product possible to my consumers. When I go into a store and buy something, nothing makes me angrier than getting it home and having it not meet my expectations.
My books are priced accordingly. Yassa is 90k words, I priced it at $9.99. The Abigale Chronicles - Book One is 11k words, I priced it at $1.99. My goal is to keep my novels between seventy and one hundred thousand words and hang them on that price point of $9.99. Along with keeping customers familiar with my books, it will let them know what to expect to pay for one. Every Abigale book will cost just $1.99. Mystic's small books (between twenty and forty thousand words) will likely be at the $4.99 price point with the end novel being set at $9.99.
It all falls along the same lines as branding. Consistency and recognition are key while meeting expectations of consumers. I'm building my brand for my business model with my prices.
I could improve by designating a logo for my brand and naming a publishing company. Both are things I'll be doing in the near future.
Resources is a tough cookie. I had a FaceBook account with over 400 friends (and yes, I knew them all) but I recently deleted all said friends and deactivated the account because it was riddled with junk. I couldn't keep up with my family through all the crap that was posted everywhere. I lament the loss only because it would have been a great venue for advertisement. I am working on building my FaceBook back up under my pen name but I know it'll take a LONG time. I shot myself in the foot on that one...
I am also going to try to sell my wares locally which means rubbing elbows with some of my town's booksellers. From what I understand, they are allowed to take small risks on new/local talent. I have to be like Nike and just do it. The worst they can tell me is NO, right? No is not such a dirty word.
So, while we're on the topic, The Abigale Chronicles - Book Two releases July 3rd. Go discover the mystery behind Abigale and Emmett's weird adventures. When you're done, come back here and tell me if YOU think it's real or if you think she's dreaming. :)
Well, that's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
If your goal is to sell books, you must view your book as a business. In what ways do you treat your book as a business? Where could you improve? What resources could you leverage to improve your book business?
Actually, my take on this is a bit different. I am the business and the books are my product. Treating my books as product makes me want to deliver the best product possible to my consumers. When I go into a store and buy something, nothing makes me angrier than getting it home and having it not meet my expectations.
My books are priced accordingly. Yassa is 90k words, I priced it at $9.99. The Abigale Chronicles - Book One is 11k words, I priced it at $1.99. My goal is to keep my novels between seventy and one hundred thousand words and hang them on that price point of $9.99. Along with keeping customers familiar with my books, it will let them know what to expect to pay for one. Every Abigale book will cost just $1.99. Mystic's small books (between twenty and forty thousand words) will likely be at the $4.99 price point with the end novel being set at $9.99.
It all falls along the same lines as branding. Consistency and recognition are key while meeting expectations of consumers. I'm building my brand for my business model with my prices.
I could improve by designating a logo for my brand and naming a publishing company. Both are things I'll be doing in the near future.
Resources is a tough cookie. I had a FaceBook account with over 400 friends (and yes, I knew them all) but I recently deleted all said friends and deactivated the account because it was riddled with junk. I couldn't keep up with my family through all the crap that was posted everywhere. I lament the loss only because it would have been a great venue for advertisement. I am working on building my FaceBook back up under my pen name but I know it'll take a LONG time. I shot myself in the foot on that one...
I am also going to try to sell my wares locally which means rubbing elbows with some of my town's booksellers. From what I understand, they are allowed to take small risks on new/local talent. I have to be like Nike and just do it. The worst they can tell me is NO, right? No is not such a dirty word.
So, while we're on the topic, The Abigale Chronicles - Book Two releases July 3rd. Go discover the mystery behind Abigale and Emmett's weird adventures. When you're done, come back here and tell me if YOU think it's real or if you think she's dreaming. :)
Well, that's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
My Book is a Movie!
I'm loving the imagination prompts in the 28 Day Author Blog Challenge! For today:
If a Hollywood agent were to come knocking on your door with an offer to turn your book into a movie and told you that you could call all the shots, who would you have direct and star in it? Write the first paragraph of Roger Ebert’s review of your film.
If I got offered a movie deal, I would insist on calling the shots because I wouldn't want the story's heart and soul skewed. My message is not one of violence but of absolute love, trust, loyalty, and protection. It delves into how those three things shape someone throughout life. I would be scared that the story would be warped into one of horror and abuse. Also, my cast would need a decidedly Asian look (all but Borte). So, with that said, I present you with my choices:
Director:
Stephen Spielberg or Clint Eastwood (for obvious reasons)
Young Temujin:
Noah Ringer
Adult Temujin:
Ken Wantanabe
Young Borte:
Anna Sophia Robb
Adult Borte:
Scarlette Johansson
Jelme:
Daniel Henney
Bo'orchu:
Aaron Kwok
Kutula:
Harry Shum Jr.(You have to picture him with really long hair)
Jamuka:
Hiroyuki Sanada
Roger Ebert’s fictional review:
Law, Love, and Defense of a Family
Stories of great Mongolian warriors can step out of the familiar genre story and show us something new. They can enlighten us to a new culture and a coming-of-age tale that we aren't familiar with, while including ethical challenges said culture has inflicted. "Yassa," the best of them thus far, tells of young Genghis Khan and introduces us to the possible struggles of children in 18th Century Mongolia. He's a force to be reckoned with, certainly, but his shaping into the man he became was a direct result of both a law he wrote based upon his culture's requirements for honor and the love he had for a woman. It leads us through a boy's journey of change because of betrayal at the hands of people he loves the most.
Well, that's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
If a Hollywood agent were to come knocking on your door with an offer to turn your book into a movie and told you that you could call all the shots, who would you have direct and star in it? Write the first paragraph of Roger Ebert’s review of your film.
If I got offered a movie deal, I would insist on calling the shots because I wouldn't want the story's heart and soul skewed. My message is not one of violence but of absolute love, trust, loyalty, and protection. It delves into how those three things shape someone throughout life. I would be scared that the story would be warped into one of horror and abuse. Also, my cast would need a decidedly Asian look (all but Borte). So, with that said, I present you with my choices:
Director:
Stephen Spielberg or Clint Eastwood (for obvious reasons)
Young Temujin:
Noah Ringer
Adult Temujin:
Ken Wantanabe
Young Borte:
Anna Sophia Robb
Adult Borte:
Scarlette Johansson
Jelme:
Daniel Henney
Bo'orchu:
Aaron Kwok
Kutula:
Harry Shum Jr.(You have to picture him with really long hair)
Jamuka:
Hiroyuki Sanada
Roger Ebert’s fictional review:
Law, Love, and Defense of a Family
Stories of great Mongolian warriors can step out of the familiar genre story and show us something new. They can enlighten us to a new culture and a coming-of-age tale that we aren't familiar with, while including ethical challenges said culture has inflicted. "Yassa," the best of them thus far, tells of young Genghis Khan and introduces us to the possible struggles of children in 18th Century Mongolia. He's a force to be reckoned with, certainly, but his shaping into the man he became was a direct result of both a law he wrote based upon his culture's requirements for honor and the love he had for a woman. It leads us through a boy's journey of change because of betrayal at the hands of people he loves the most.
Well, that's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
Offical Book Signing
Another prompt from the 28 Day Author Blog Challenge:
Describe your first book signing - real or imagined.
Oh, this is gonna be fun! Please, sit back and lose yourself in my imagination...
I open my eyes an hour before my alarm goes off and spring from bed with an energy rush. I punch the air before doing a little Indian dance in a circle; much like the ones performed by my ancestors to call down rain. Not that I want rain, but a little sprinkle of magic would be nice on a day where I'll be showing my face to the world and meeting fans.
I rush through the shower then apply the usual makeup: blush, eyeliner, mascara, and a bit of lip gloss. Dressing carefully in the clothes I have chosen, I pile my hair on my head in a disorganized fashion before strapping on my favorite shoes. I realize I'm way too early so I pick up a book and read to pass the time. No good. I'm too distracted to be consumed by the story on the pages, so I rise and pace the floor. This action excites my maltchi, and he happily paces after me with a wagging tail. I lift him and give him a snuzzle for a moment, professing what a good dog he is.
I return to the bathroom to check my appearance three times over the next hour - just in case something changed from the last time I looked.
I check my phone and realize it's time to go. Grabbing my purse, I head for the door to wait on The Best Boyfriend in the World to arrive. As usual, he pulls in right on time and tells me I look beautiful before whisking me out and into his truck. He drives, I ride. And I find myself unable to stop talking. I'm nervous as hell at the prospect of meeting so many people!
We arrive at the event to find images of my books and my face plastered all over the venue. I duck my head and blush because I'm not used to so much attention and fanfare.
He turns me, lifts my chin, looks into my eyes, and says, "No looking down. You did this and I'm so proud of you."
I tear up, and he kisses my forehead before saying, "No tears. Not today."
I nod my head, blink the hot liquid back before it has a chance to run down my face, and take his hand to head inside.
There's a smarmy looking manager who greets us and leads us to a table that's covered in my books. My heart hammers in my chest. He turns to hand me a pen and gives me a look of surprise when I pull my own out of my pocket. This is the pen. Metal from top to bottom, heavy, and has been with me since day one of college; my lucky pen (GPA 3.98 lucky). I smile at the manager and he returns it with one that doesn't reach his eyes.
The Best Boyfriend in the World leads me to the other side of the table and holds my chair as I sit. He takes his place next to me and, again, I'm stricken with word vomit. My nerves are getting the best of me, but he's a sport and doesn't complain. He takes my hand to calm my brain; it works. I shut my mouth and find peace through his touch.
Customers are lining up outside the store. I'm suddenly very sure they have no clue I'm there and are just the usual Saturday morning crowd. My heart sinks into my feet and melancholy threatens to overtake me. Just when I think I can stand no more, the doors are opened and people line up at my table so I can sign their books. They were for me. Wow. I've brought joy to this many people through my words! I think.
For the next three hours I'm shaking hands, cooing over babies, telling kids how important reading is, signing books with inspirational messages, and posing for pictures my boyfriend takes while sporting a huge grin. Holy crap. I love him so much! By the time it's all over, I'm in a daze.
I thank the manager and the store employees for everything and turn to my boyfriend. "I can't believe it. That was the second most amazing thing I've ever experienced. Only topped by the day I met you. Thank you for being by my side," I say.
He takes my face in his hands and says, "I never doubted you."
I smile, and we kiss.
My feet are light as air and my heart feels like it could sprout wings and soar away at any moment. Kissing my pen, I return it to my pocket with a whisper of thanks and we head home.
Well, that's all for today folks, I hope you enjoyed my tale! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
Describe your first book signing - real or imagined.
Oh, this is gonna be fun! Please, sit back and lose yourself in my imagination...
I open my eyes an hour before my alarm goes off and spring from bed with an energy rush. I punch the air before doing a little Indian dance in a circle; much like the ones performed by my ancestors to call down rain. Not that I want rain, but a little sprinkle of magic would be nice on a day where I'll be showing my face to the world and meeting fans.
I rush through the shower then apply the usual makeup: blush, eyeliner, mascara, and a bit of lip gloss. Dressing carefully in the clothes I have chosen, I pile my hair on my head in a disorganized fashion before strapping on my favorite shoes. I realize I'm way too early so I pick up a book and read to pass the time. No good. I'm too distracted to be consumed by the story on the pages, so I rise and pace the floor. This action excites my maltchi, and he happily paces after me with a wagging tail. I lift him and give him a snuzzle for a moment, professing what a good dog he is.
I return to the bathroom to check my appearance three times over the next hour - just in case something changed from the last time I looked.
I check my phone and realize it's time to go. Grabbing my purse, I head for the door to wait on The Best Boyfriend in the World to arrive. As usual, he pulls in right on time and tells me I look beautiful before whisking me out and into his truck. He drives, I ride. And I find myself unable to stop talking. I'm nervous as hell at the prospect of meeting so many people!
We arrive at the event to find images of my books and my face plastered all over the venue. I duck my head and blush because I'm not used to so much attention and fanfare.
He turns me, lifts my chin, looks into my eyes, and says, "No looking down. You did this and I'm so proud of you."
I tear up, and he kisses my forehead before saying, "No tears. Not today."
I nod my head, blink the hot liquid back before it has a chance to run down my face, and take his hand to head inside.
There's a smarmy looking manager who greets us and leads us to a table that's covered in my books. My heart hammers in my chest. He turns to hand me a pen and gives me a look of surprise when I pull my own out of my pocket. This is the pen. Metal from top to bottom, heavy, and has been with me since day one of college; my lucky pen (GPA 3.98 lucky). I smile at the manager and he returns it with one that doesn't reach his eyes.
The Best Boyfriend in the World leads me to the other side of the table and holds my chair as I sit. He takes his place next to me and, again, I'm stricken with word vomit. My nerves are getting the best of me, but he's a sport and doesn't complain. He takes my hand to calm my brain; it works. I shut my mouth and find peace through his touch.
Customers are lining up outside the store. I'm suddenly very sure they have no clue I'm there and are just the usual Saturday morning crowd. My heart sinks into my feet and melancholy threatens to overtake me. Just when I think I can stand no more, the doors are opened and people line up at my table so I can sign their books. They were for me. Wow. I've brought joy to this many people through my words! I think.
For the next three hours I'm shaking hands, cooing over babies, telling kids how important reading is, signing books with inspirational messages, and posing for pictures my boyfriend takes while sporting a huge grin. Holy crap. I love him so much! By the time it's all over, I'm in a daze.
I thank the manager and the store employees for everything and turn to my boyfriend. "I can't believe it. That was the second most amazing thing I've ever experienced. Only topped by the day I met you. Thank you for being by my side," I say.
He takes my face in his hands and says, "I never doubted you."
I smile, and we kiss.
My feet are light as air and my heart feels like it could sprout wings and soar away at any moment. Kissing my pen, I return it to my pocket with a whisper of thanks and we head home.
Well, that's all for today folks, I hope you enjoyed my tale! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
Friday, June 22, 2012
Indie Ideas
Only a few days left in the Author Blog Challenge. So sad :( On to today's prompt:
What is the single best piece of advice you’ve ever received about the publishing process and/or what advice would you offer to a first-time author?
The single best piece of advice I got was from The Best Boyfriend in the World. He said, "Don't give up. Finish everything you start even if it feels like you're pulling teeth. Your book is your business. Treat it like one."
On that note, I must say he was right. I spent three months writing Yassa, three months editing, and a week getting it ready for publication (formatting). During the book's cool-off period of six weeks, I designed the cover (which people are loving - and that love gives me a happy) and wrote The Abigale Chronicles - Book One. This is the funny part: I released The Abigale Chronicles - Book One in April and Yassa in June. How's that for screwed up?
Along those same lines of thought, I am releasing The Abigale Chronicles - Book Two in just two weeks and have planned a release schedule for one book every three months. At $1.99, it's a steal and won't break the bank. Each one is a stand-alone story so you don't have to read book one to understand two or three, etc... I think it's important to keep delivering new/interesting material on a consistent basis as well as not leaving your reader hanging between books. That's another piece from treating my books like a business. If people run out of things to buy/read, they go elsewhere. If your "Going out of Business Sale" sign never comes down, people quit believing it.
Here's my advice to a first time author: Keep your content new and fresh. Don't ever stop writing. And, for the love of all that's holy, price your books fairly. If you're a good writer, people WILL buy them! Most of all, follow The Best Boyfriend in the World's advice above. It's good advice.
Something that bugs me: People seem to be jumping on the fake mini-series bandwagon. A mini-series should have a point and each book should be self contained. A whole book broken into three parts is not a mini-series. I have heard complaints from readers that encounter this. Not a good idea. Just sell them the whole book, you know?
If you have ever enjoyed a V.C. Andrews series, you'll know what I mean about mini-series (and, NO, not the ones AFTER she died). Flowers in the Attic and Ruby were two of the best series I have ever read. I love her unexpected twists and turns (what do you mean, she married her BROTHER? UNCLE? OMG!).
My series Mystic will fall into that mini-series category (four small books with five characters coming together in one final novel) and broach some pretty sensitive topics. After all, even controversial press is still PRESS, right? It's gonna raise a ruckus, methinks. I couldn't be happier with the prospect.
Anywho... That's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
What is the single best piece of advice you’ve ever received about the publishing process and/or what advice would you offer to a first-time author?
The single best piece of advice I got was from The Best Boyfriend in the World. He said, "Don't give up. Finish everything you start even if it feels like you're pulling teeth. Your book is your business. Treat it like one."
On that note, I must say he was right. I spent three months writing Yassa, three months editing, and a week getting it ready for publication (formatting). During the book's cool-off period of six weeks, I designed the cover (which people are loving - and that love gives me a happy) and wrote The Abigale Chronicles - Book One. This is the funny part: I released The Abigale Chronicles - Book One in April and Yassa in June. How's that for screwed up?
Along those same lines of thought, I am releasing The Abigale Chronicles - Book Two in just two weeks and have planned a release schedule for one book every three months. At $1.99, it's a steal and won't break the bank. Each one is a stand-alone story so you don't have to read book one to understand two or three, etc... I think it's important to keep delivering new/interesting material on a consistent basis as well as not leaving your reader hanging between books. That's another piece from treating my books like a business. If people run out of things to buy/read, they go elsewhere. If your "Going out of Business Sale" sign never comes down, people quit believing it.
Here's my advice to a first time author: Keep your content new and fresh. Don't ever stop writing. And, for the love of all that's holy, price your books fairly. If you're a good writer, people WILL buy them! Most of all, follow The Best Boyfriend in the World's advice above. It's good advice.
Something that bugs me: People seem to be jumping on the fake mini-series bandwagon. A mini-series should have a point and each book should be self contained. A whole book broken into three parts is not a mini-series. I have heard complaints from readers that encounter this. Not a good idea. Just sell them the whole book, you know?
If you have ever enjoyed a V.C. Andrews series, you'll know what I mean about mini-series (and, NO, not the ones AFTER she died). Flowers in the Attic and Ruby were two of the best series I have ever read. I love her unexpected twists and turns (what do you mean, she married her BROTHER? UNCLE? OMG!).My series Mystic will fall into that mini-series category (four small books with five characters coming together in one final novel) and broach some pretty sensitive topics. After all, even controversial press is still PRESS, right? It's gonna raise a ruckus, methinks. I couldn't be happier with the prospect.
Anywho... That's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
Thursday, June 21, 2012
Social Media Mayhem
Social media prompt from the 28 Day Author Blog Challenge:
How are you using social media to promote your book? What aspect of social media would you like to learn more about? What are your next steps?
I use buffer to post auto-tweets in promotion of my books. During the day, I tweet about my blog here and there with automatic updates going out to my FaceBook wall.
You can follow me on Twitter here or find me on FaceBook here. Follow my blog to get automatic updates when I post, too! I put out a lot of useful information for writers, designers, and writers who design. You'll usually get five posts a week unless something major happens.
I would like to know a lot more about LinkedIN - find me here. I use it but not often. I was planning to get into it a bit more after July of this year. We'll see how that goes.
What I'm really counting on is word-of-mouth advertising. I know that once a few people read my books, they'll tell others. I have deep faith in my ability to turn a tale that is interesting, fun, and educational.
Release day is July 3rd for The Abigale Chronicles - Book Two. If you haven't read book one, go get it. It's just $1.99 for the Kindle version and $5.99 for the printed version!
As promised, the cover for The Abigale Chronicles - Book Two:
Leave a little love and tell me what you think! I'm trying to use a different color scheme on each one and a little bit of a different design but I'm keeping the title elements the same for recognition purposes.
That's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
How are you using social media to promote your book? What aspect of social media would you like to learn more about? What are your next steps?
I use buffer to post auto-tweets in promotion of my books. During the day, I tweet about my blog here and there with automatic updates going out to my FaceBook wall.
You can follow me on Twitter here or find me on FaceBook here. Follow my blog to get automatic updates when I post, too! I put out a lot of useful information for writers, designers, and writers who design. You'll usually get five posts a week unless something major happens.
I would like to know a lot more about LinkedIN - find me here. I use it but not often. I was planning to get into it a bit more after July of this year. We'll see how that goes.
What I'm really counting on is word-of-mouth advertising. I know that once a few people read my books, they'll tell others. I have deep faith in my ability to turn a tale that is interesting, fun, and educational.
Release day is July 3rd for The Abigale Chronicles - Book Two. If you haven't read book one, go get it. It's just $1.99 for the Kindle version and $5.99 for the printed version!
As promised, the cover for The Abigale Chronicles - Book Two:
Leave a little love and tell me what you think! I'm trying to use a different color scheme on each one and a little bit of a different design but I'm keeping the title elements the same for recognition purposes.
That's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Platform Smatform
The 28 Day Author Blog Challenge prompt for today is:
What are the three most important things you are doing to grow your platform?
First off, if you haven't signed up yet, there's still time. Just do it. Now, on to the goodies...
Number ONE:
I enter challenges, like the 28 Day Author Blog Challenge and I participate heavily. I take time to go through and read as many other posts as I can and leave comments. My network has grown vastly through this exercise. Never ever enter unless you plan to participate because you'll end up with guilt. I hate guilt.
Number TWO:
I friend every follower I have on Goodreads. I want to know what you're reading, I really do. Plus, that keeps my peeps in the loop on my releases and giveaways (watch for The Abigale Chronicles - Book Two giveaway in July!). Giving two copies to Goodreads for people who desire an excellent book is my way of reaching out to people who may become fans. I sign both copies and add a little note for personalization.
Number THREE:
Social media: I friend readers and follow writers like crazy on Facebook and Twitter. Their fans could be my fans, too! My blog is a way of growing my platform as well. I try to give useful/helpful information for indie authors and writers in general. If you look here: CLICK ME! or here: CLICK ME, TOO! I even have ways you can make your writing stronger through word usage and suggestions for building a writing bible, how to write descriptions that don't paint exact people for your reader (we have to let their imaginations do something, right?), and general, interesting stuff.
Most of all, don't spend more than an hour a day on networking. Right now, I'm doing more than that but once the challenge is over, I cut off after 9am every day. I write from 9-3. Period. We are writers, we must write. A good day shows me with 3k-4k words and my Abigale books fly from my fingers when I'm in the zone. You know what that is. Flow baby.
Now, if you haven't read The Abigale Chronicles - Book One you better get on the ball! Book Two releases in just two weeks! Eek! Come on now, it's a short, fun read. My daughter is getting a kick out of book two; it's about cats. Not telling any more! No cover reveal today, maybe tomorrow...
That's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
What are the three most important things you are doing to grow your platform?
First off, if you haven't signed up yet, there's still time. Just do it. Now, on to the goodies...
Number ONE:
I enter challenges, like the 28 Day Author Blog Challenge and I participate heavily. I take time to go through and read as many other posts as I can and leave comments. My network has grown vastly through this exercise. Never ever enter unless you plan to participate because you'll end up with guilt. I hate guilt.
Number TWO:
I friend every follower I have on Goodreads. I want to know what you're reading, I really do. Plus, that keeps my peeps in the loop on my releases and giveaways (watch for The Abigale Chronicles - Book Two giveaway in July!). Giving two copies to Goodreads for people who desire an excellent book is my way of reaching out to people who may become fans. I sign both copies and add a little note for personalization.
Number THREE:
Social media: I friend readers and follow writers like crazy on Facebook and Twitter. Their fans could be my fans, too! My blog is a way of growing my platform as well. I try to give useful/helpful information for indie authors and writers in general. If you look here: CLICK ME! or here: CLICK ME, TOO! I even have ways you can make your writing stronger through word usage and suggestions for building a writing bible, how to write descriptions that don't paint exact people for your reader (we have to let their imaginations do something, right?), and general, interesting stuff.
Most of all, don't spend more than an hour a day on networking. Right now, I'm doing more than that but once the challenge is over, I cut off after 9am every day. I write from 9-3. Period. We are writers, we must write. A good day shows me with 3k-4k words and my Abigale books fly from my fingers when I'm in the zone. You know what that is. Flow baby.
Now, if you haven't read The Abigale Chronicles - Book One you better get on the ball! Book Two releases in just two weeks! Eek! Come on now, it's a short, fun read. My daughter is getting a kick out of book two; it's about cats. Not telling any more! No cover reveal today, maybe tomorrow...
That's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
Blabbering Betties
And on to yet another post for the 28 day Author Blog Challenge...
Who did/could you ask to write a blurb for your book? Why that person/people? How did/will you go about reaching them?
I asked the best boyfriend in the world's twenty-one-year-old daughter to write a blurb for my book. She read it and wrote me some lovely ad copy. Without further ado:
"In this riveting portrayal of the emperor of the Mongol Emperor Genghis Khan, Yassa depicts the untold story of the undying love between Genghis and his wife, Borte. The novel creates speculation that who Genghis Khan had become is a result of the turmoil amongst his wife, family, and brotherhood, and the betrayal of the ones he remained devoted to until the end. The author Jo Michaels demonstrates her curiosity of the history behind Genghis Khan in this brave replica of the leader of the largest contiguous empire in history. You will find yourself laughing, crying, smiling, and sympathizing with the characters throughout the entire book. Yassa is a must read that will keep you wanting more of the bygone times that have never before been depicted like this."
~ Katlynn G
I asked her because she's a reader. She consumes around two books a week. If she liked it, I figured the general public would, too.
I found her via my association with her father. Her personal feelings were not put on display but she told me that when she got to the last page, she cried. SCORE! Tears mean my characters resonated with her.
When I write, resonance is my goal. I want people to take a little piece of my novel and store it in their heart forever. When you read Yassa, you'll have a perfect understanding of how I feel about my boyfriend. He's my once in a lifetime.
News: The Abigale Chronicles - Book Two is ready for release on July 3, 2012. If you haven't read Book One yet, now's the time. Follow one of the links at the top of my blog to get yours! I'll be doing a cover reveal sometime this week. If I told you when, that wouldn't be fun! So getcher butts back here for that!
Even more news: Yassa received another FOUR STAR review yesterday! See the writeup here.
That's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
Who did/could you ask to write a blurb for your book? Why that person/people? How did/will you go about reaching them?
I asked the best boyfriend in the world's twenty-one-year-old daughter to write a blurb for my book. She read it and wrote me some lovely ad copy. Without further ado:
"In this riveting portrayal of the emperor of the Mongol Emperor Genghis Khan, Yassa depicts the untold story of the undying love between Genghis and his wife, Borte. The novel creates speculation that who Genghis Khan had become is a result of the turmoil amongst his wife, family, and brotherhood, and the betrayal of the ones he remained devoted to until the end. The author Jo Michaels demonstrates her curiosity of the history behind Genghis Khan in this brave replica of the leader of the largest contiguous empire in history. You will find yourself laughing, crying, smiling, and sympathizing with the characters throughout the entire book. Yassa is a must read that will keep you wanting more of the bygone times that have never before been depicted like this."
~ Katlynn G
I asked her because she's a reader. She consumes around two books a week. If she liked it, I figured the general public would, too.
I found her via my association with her father. Her personal feelings were not put on display but she told me that when she got to the last page, she cried. SCORE! Tears mean my characters resonated with her.
When I write, resonance is my goal. I want people to take a little piece of my novel and store it in their heart forever. When you read Yassa, you'll have a perfect understanding of how I feel about my boyfriend. He's my once in a lifetime.
News: The Abigale Chronicles - Book Two is ready for release on July 3, 2012. If you haven't read Book One yet, now's the time. Follow one of the links at the top of my blog to get yours! I'll be doing a cover reveal sometime this week. If I told you when, that wouldn't be fun! So getcher butts back here for that!
Even more news: Yassa received another FOUR STAR review yesterday! See the writeup here.
That's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
Monday, June 18, 2012
Target Market
On to another prompt for the 28 Day Author Blog Challenge:
Describe the market for your book - to the tiniest detail (e.g., childless divorced women past age 50 who want to remarry). Why that demographic? How do you connect with them to market to them?
My market for Yassa consists of anyone who has loved fully, intensely, and faithfully. People who understand and appreciate the power of that faithfulness. Most of all, people who want to connect with a character and take something away from a story for once. While my intended audience was women from age 25-45, I have found that teens like my book a lot and that older women seem to gravitate toward it.
My market for The Abigale Chronicles is young readers from age 6-13, male and female. Those kids with imagination who can grasp that something weird is going on with Abigale. Kids who need to identify with a character and understand that when they have a problem, they should face it head-on with their eyes wide open.
Why that demographic? For Yassa, it's because women need to understand the inner workings of a man. Men desire to protect and be loved unconditionally. When any of that fails, they struggle. It changes them in ways we don't understand. For The Abigale Chronicles, it's because I want to teach them that reading can take you places you never dreamed you'd go.
In Yassa, Temujin fails to protect Borte and the act of losing her drives him a little crazy. It's Genghis Khan's coming-of-age tale. It tells why he was shaped into the brutal man he became. Life shapes us all in interesting ways and his life was hard. But he loved like no other. He was loyal to his friends and family and took slights against them personally, making anyone who dared to dishonor him the next target on his list of payback.
With The Abigale Chronicles, I feel like I have a last-ditch chance to get kids to pick up books and read. All books, not just mine. Abigale is intended to inspire a love of reading and realize the places books can take you with their words.
I connect with my target markets through advertising and networking. When I'm out and about, I talk about my work with anyone who'll listen. I do giveaways on Goodreads so those that are interested, have a chance at a copy for themselves. Word-of-mouth should take it from there. Don't forget to enter the giveaway at Goodreads for a chance to win one of two signed copies of Yassa!
Well, that's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
Describe the market for your book - to the tiniest detail (e.g., childless divorced women past age 50 who want to remarry). Why that demographic? How do you connect with them to market to them?
My market for Yassa consists of anyone who has loved fully, intensely, and faithfully. People who understand and appreciate the power of that faithfulness. Most of all, people who want to connect with a character and take something away from a story for once. While my intended audience was women from age 25-45, I have found that teens like my book a lot and that older women seem to gravitate toward it.
My market for The Abigale Chronicles is young readers from age 6-13, male and female. Those kids with imagination who can grasp that something weird is going on with Abigale. Kids who need to identify with a character and understand that when they have a problem, they should face it head-on with their eyes wide open.
Why that demographic? For Yassa, it's because women need to understand the inner workings of a man. Men desire to protect and be loved unconditionally. When any of that fails, they struggle. It changes them in ways we don't understand. For The Abigale Chronicles, it's because I want to teach them that reading can take you places you never dreamed you'd go.
In Yassa, Temujin fails to protect Borte and the act of losing her drives him a little crazy. It's Genghis Khan's coming-of-age tale. It tells why he was shaped into the brutal man he became. Life shapes us all in interesting ways and his life was hard. But he loved like no other. He was loyal to his friends and family and took slights against them personally, making anyone who dared to dishonor him the next target on his list of payback.
With The Abigale Chronicles, I feel like I have a last-ditch chance to get kids to pick up books and read. All books, not just mine. Abigale is intended to inspire a love of reading and realize the places books can take you with their words.
I connect with my target markets through advertising and networking. When I'm out and about, I talk about my work with anyone who'll listen. I do giveaways on Goodreads so those that are interested, have a chance at a copy for themselves. Word-of-mouth should take it from there. Don't forget to enter the giveaway at Goodreads for a chance to win one of two signed copies of Yassa!
Well, that's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
Sunday, June 17, 2012
Persnickety Publishing People
On to yet another day in the Author Blog Challenge. If you haven't signed up yet, feel free. The link is on the right. And the prompt today goes to...
Did you publish your book as a traditionally printed book, an eBook, or both? How did you come to your decision? Which company(ies) did you use for printing and distribution? How did you select them?
If anyone has been following my blog, you know I'm a self published author. I chose to use Smashwords for my first distribution of The Abigale Chronicles - Book One and by doing so, learned a lot of what to do and what not to do. I went through my experience in an earlier post. Feel free to pop over and take a gander.
Now for the juicy stuff. I did both an e-book and a traditionally printed version for my books. I used Createspace to publish the tangible versions. I learned a lot from putting The Abigale Chronicles up there as well. I'll make a blog friendly list of what to do and what not to do.
Please DO:
1. Take the time to make sure your manuscript is ready to go. Createspace takes longer to look over your stuff with a second submission. Why should they rush when you didn't bother to make sure it was perfect?
2. Use a cover designer that understands CMYK is different than RGB. Let me tell you, some greens and oranges look TERRIBLE when converted. Trust me.
3. Design your cover WITH a bleed. They trim 1/8" off every side. I went into this in an earlier post as well (link below).
4. Make sure your font is easy to read and prints well.
Please DO NOT:
1. Make changes.
2. Design your cover in RGB colorspace. Ugh.
3. Assume you know what you're doing. You don't know what a widow or an orphan is, don't try to. Seek a designer to help you format the inside of your book, please.
4. Use a tiny font (under 8pt).
I am linking to some earlier blog posts of mine that explain a lot of the above. Please go take a look. If you're using a designer, ask them if they know what kerning is and what the difference is between CMYK and RGB (CMYK is the four color process of ink printing on a press. RGB is the colorspace that is created with light - like on your computer). If they know the answers to those questions, they have been to design school.
Kerning Lesson
Printing Lesson
Color Spaces Lesson
Fonts Lesson
I chose Createspace and Smashwords by reading reviews online. I research EVERY company I do business with (so does my boyfriend) and we seek an outside opinion always. I find this to be a good way to expect the unexpected. Be prepared for the worst.
I decided to self-publish for a number of reasons:
1. I queried agents but they couldn't figure out my market so they declined.
2. I wanted control. Yes, I am a control freak (this surprises you? Really?).
3. The artist in me cringed at letting someone else decide on my design.
4. I had the time.
5. It was the best option for me.
Don't forget to enter my Goodreads giveaway for a chance at a free copy of Yassa.
Well, that's all for today, folks. Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
Did you publish your book as a traditionally printed book, an eBook, or both? How did you come to your decision? Which company(ies) did you use for printing and distribution? How did you select them?
If anyone has been following my blog, you know I'm a self published author. I chose to use Smashwords for my first distribution of The Abigale Chronicles - Book One and by doing so, learned a lot of what to do and what not to do. I went through my experience in an earlier post. Feel free to pop over and take a gander.
Now for the juicy stuff. I did both an e-book and a traditionally printed version for my books. I used Createspace to publish the tangible versions. I learned a lot from putting The Abigale Chronicles up there as well. I'll make a blog friendly list of what to do and what not to do.
Please DO:
1. Take the time to make sure your manuscript is ready to go. Createspace takes longer to look over your stuff with a second submission. Why should they rush when you didn't bother to make sure it was perfect?
2. Use a cover designer that understands CMYK is different than RGB. Let me tell you, some greens and oranges look TERRIBLE when converted. Trust me.
3. Design your cover WITH a bleed. They trim 1/8" off every side. I went into this in an earlier post as well (link below).
4. Make sure your font is easy to read and prints well.
Please DO NOT:
1. Make changes.
2. Design your cover in RGB colorspace. Ugh.
3. Assume you know what you're doing. You don't know what a widow or an orphan is, don't try to. Seek a designer to help you format the inside of your book, please.
4. Use a tiny font (under 8pt).
I am linking to some earlier blog posts of mine that explain a lot of the above. Please go take a look. If you're using a designer, ask them if they know what kerning is and what the difference is between CMYK and RGB (CMYK is the four color process of ink printing on a press. RGB is the colorspace that is created with light - like on your computer). If they know the answers to those questions, they have been to design school.
Kerning Lesson
Printing Lesson
Color Spaces Lesson
Fonts Lesson
I chose Createspace and Smashwords by reading reviews online. I research EVERY company I do business with (so does my boyfriend) and we seek an outside opinion always. I find this to be a good way to expect the unexpected. Be prepared for the worst.
I decided to self-publish for a number of reasons:
1. I queried agents but they couldn't figure out my market so they declined.
2. I wanted control. Yes, I am a control freak (this surprises you? Really?).
3. The artist in me cringed at letting someone else decide on my design.
4. I had the time.
5. It was the best option for me.
Don't forget to enter my Goodreads giveaway for a chance at a free copy of Yassa.
Well, that's all for today, folks. Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
Saturday, June 16, 2012
Reader Interview
On to the next prompt in the Author Blog Challenge...
Find someone you know, either online or in the real world, who is a true bibliophile and interview them about their reading habits. Ask questions such as:
How many books do you buy per month?
What I learned from this interview is that people who buy tangible books, read them.
While you're on my blog, go check out the review I wrote for Ashley Howland's Ghostnapped!
That's all for today, folks! I hope you enjoyed reading this one!! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
Find someone you know, either online or in the real world, who is a true bibliophile and interview them about their reading habits. Ask questions such as:
How many books do you buy per month?
Five
How many do you actually read?
How many do you actually read?
Five
What do you read?
What do you read?
Mysteries, Romance, Sci-Fi,
Historical Fiction, Thrillers, Medical Myseries, Crime Novels, Young Adult
Where do you buy your books?
Where do you buy your books?
Amazon now, I used to be a book club
member.
Who is your favorite author?
Who is your favorite author?
Mary Higgins-Clark
What do you like about the author?
What do you like about the author?
Her storytelling style is less
descriptive. She doesn’t go into what color the floors are, grass is, décor style
(unless setting an era).
How often do you attend signings/readings? What do you enjoy about them?
How often do you attend signings/readings? What do you enjoy about them?
Never. I’m a reclusive.
If you could ask their favorite author any question, what would it be?
If you could ask their favorite author any question, what would it be?
Do you do any charity work for
neglected or abused children?
Which book has most recently surprised or delighted you?
Which book has most recently surprised or delighted you?
Yassa. Because it’s historical
fiction and I don’t usually read them. It was thrilling and unexpected. Out of
the last ten to fifteen books I’ve read, it’s my favorite. I just couldn’t put
it down.
Of everything you’ve read so far this year, what would you most recommend?
I tend to recommend things that are freshest in
my mind. So, I would recommend: Yassa by Jo Michaels, Intensity and 77 Shadow Street by Dean Koontz, and Exclusive by Fern Michaels.Of everything you’ve read so far this year, what would you most recommend?
What I learned from this interview is that people who buy tangible books, read them.
While you're on my blog, go check out the review I wrote for Ashley Howland's Ghostnapped!
That's all for today, folks! I hope you enjoyed reading this one!! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
Friday, June 15, 2012
Surprise!
There's still time to join the Author Blog Challenge! If you haven't, just do it. Moving right along to today's prompt...
What has been the biggest surprise about writing/publishing your book? What has been the most enjoyable or most memorable aspect?
My biggest surprise was all the different formats that were wanted by all the different e-book publishers. Why can there not be consistency? Geeze Louise!
I love that Amazon has started to crack down on allowing public works publishing. It clears the market for real books. When I heard that, I did an Emeril Lagassi style, "BAM!" in my head.
Take that, you profiteers of other people's work!
I have enjoyed the people I have gotten to know through my networking efforts. There are some great folks in the publishing world. Many of them can be found here. Yes, that's The Author Blog Challenge participant link. So what if I invited my friends to join as well?
I never realized what a wonderful community writers have formed around the globe. How great is it that I can talk to Ashley Howland in Australia, Lisa Cherry in the UK, and meet people from the US as well? I adore intelligent discussion and giving people a new way to look at things that they may not have considered. A number of them have returned and given back as good as they have gotten.
I enjoy talking with writers because they are almost always open to new ideas and constructive feedback.
I enjoy talking with artists because they have a different view of the world we live in and take the time to paint or draw it.
I enjoy talking with most people on most topics as long as their thoughts are original and not pulled from the main-stream way of thinking.
Many of the people I now know, I would not have met without networking or voicing of my own, rather skewed opinion of the world. I wouldn't trade it.
Since this post is short, I am going to take today to share with you all some of my photography and illustrations. I hope you enjoy the eye candy.
Illustrations shown large, original photograph in icon. First is colored pencil on black canson drawing paper. Second is india ink on hot press illustration board.
In tandem with today's post comes an interview with Ashley Howland, author of Ghostnapped! Tomorrow will be my review of the book.
That's all for today, folks, Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
What has been the biggest surprise about writing/publishing your book? What has been the most enjoyable or most memorable aspect?
My biggest surprise was all the different formats that were wanted by all the different e-book publishers. Why can there not be consistency? Geeze Louise!
I love that Amazon has started to crack down on allowing public works publishing. It clears the market for real books. When I heard that, I did an Emeril Lagassi style, "BAM!" in my head.
Take that, you profiteers of other people's work!
I have enjoyed the people I have gotten to know through my networking efforts. There are some great folks in the publishing world. Many of them can be found here. Yes, that's The Author Blog Challenge participant link. So what if I invited my friends to join as well?
I never realized what a wonderful community writers have formed around the globe. How great is it that I can talk to Ashley Howland in Australia, Lisa Cherry in the UK, and meet people from the US as well? I adore intelligent discussion and giving people a new way to look at things that they may not have considered. A number of them have returned and given back as good as they have gotten.
I enjoy talking with writers because they are almost always open to new ideas and constructive feedback.
I enjoy talking with artists because they have a different view of the world we live in and take the time to paint or draw it.
I enjoy talking with most people on most topics as long as their thoughts are original and not pulled from the main-stream way of thinking.
Many of the people I now know, I would not have met without networking or voicing of my own, rather skewed opinion of the world. I wouldn't trade it.
Since this post is short, I am going to take today to share with you all some of my photography and illustrations. I hope you enjoy the eye candy.
Illustrations shown large, original photograph in icon. First is colored pencil on black canson drawing paper. Second is india ink on hot press illustration board.
In tandem with today's post comes an interview with Ashley Howland, author of Ghostnapped! Tomorrow will be my review of the book.
That's all for today, folks, Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
Thursday, June 14, 2012
I Challenge Thee... To a Duel!
Day 13 of the Author Blog Challenge. Today's prompt, brought to you by the letters MF... Where did your mind just go? Shame on you!
What has been the most challenging part of your book process: writing, building the book, printing, distributing, marketing, etc.? What do you wish you'd known before you began?
Marketing and Formatting have taken the cake for being the most challenging part of my book process. Smashwords also provided some frustrations. Allow me to provide you with a few guides.
Formatting: Now, formatting an e-book is easy cakes if you've done it before. You understand that you should never ever ever tab at the beginning of a paragraph and every space after a period should be single. You know to compose with a normal paragraph style in word and not to have auto formatting turned on to parse hyperlinks or correct errant spelling errors. That being said, if you don't know those thing to begin with, formatting an e-book is a royal pain in the arse.
Why? Because you have to undo all those things that typing class taught you in high school. Ugh.
Another problem with doing it yourself is allllll the different formats that every e-reader uses. NOOK wants an epub file, KDP wants an html document, and Smashwords wants you to add returns at every page break so the meatgrinder can find where your pages split. If you're publishing a print version? .doc or .docx along with a PDF of the cover file is what you'll need.
Easy steps that I can advise that will take you far:
Make sure your manuscript is ready for publishing. Period. If it's not, don't bother doing any of the things below because you will have to re-do them all if you change something.
Follow the Smashwords Style Guide. You can download it via the link provided. It tells you how to get rid of tabs, apply different formats, create a table of contents and erase errant hyperlinks. Even if you aren't publishing with Smashwords, I recommend you pick up a copy now. It's free, why not?
Install the Calibre e-book management tool. You'll thank me later. It takes an .rtf file and makes it into an epub file with lots of cool options and little boxes to tick check-marks into.
I know, I know, I'm so informative! It's only because I love you all.
Now, after you have followed The Style Guide (without the extra returns between paragraphs or little cutesy icons) take your final file from word and save it as:
TITLE_SMASHWORDSFORMAT_JUNE142012.DOC
TITLE_NOOK_JUNE142012.RTF
TITLE_KINDLE_JUNE142012.HTML
TITLE_CREATESPACE_JUNE142012.DOCX
Make a folder for each site. Mine look like this:
Desktop>BooksWritingsEtc>Yassa>NOOK
and so on, and so forth.
Remember to open the original file every time before saving it out as something different. Obviously, use your title and the current date.
Revise the Smashwords version to be happy with the meatgrinder as instructed. Open Calibre and turn the .rtf into an epub. Save that as:
TITLE_NOOK_JUNE142012.EPUB
Make sure your cover follows each site's requirement for size and save each cover with the same extensions. Let your cover designer know where you are going to publish your book and what size your print version will be.
When/if you upload to Smashwords, go and opt out of distribution to NOOK and Amazon. Now, go upload your files and be HAPPY!
Yes, it's a lot of work but you're working for yourself and things will be the way you want them to be. No better reward than that, in my opinion.
Marketing is it's own beast but my best advice is to participate, network, and offer assistance to others. Above all else, have consistency. My name will always appear on my book in the same font, in the same place. Keep that in mind when working with a designer. Make it BIG. Your name is a selling point. No time to be shy now.
Another tool for marketing is Goodreads. I always publish a print version of my work and offer a giveaway on that site because it's just good business sense. You gotta get your book into the hands of people that will read it.
Now, for my frustrations with Smashwords. They took a while to approve me for premium distribution and send The Abigale Chronicles to iBooks and NOOK. I ended up opting out for Amazon distribution and doing it myself just last week. I am impatient. I opted to do both Amazon and NOOK myself in my second release. A little more work, to be sure, but I'm a happier camper for it. NOOK is still not showing the cover for Abigale but iBooks got it quickly after approval and it looks gorgeous there.
Sorry this was long winded but I hope you got some useful information out of it.
That's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
What has been the most challenging part of your book process: writing, building the book, printing, distributing, marketing, etc.? What do you wish you'd known before you began?
Marketing and Formatting have taken the cake for being the most challenging part of my book process. Smashwords also provided some frustrations. Allow me to provide you with a few guides.
Formatting: Now, formatting an e-book is easy cakes if you've done it before. You understand that you should never ever ever tab at the beginning of a paragraph and every space after a period should be single. You know to compose with a normal paragraph style in word and not to have auto formatting turned on to parse hyperlinks or correct errant spelling errors. That being said, if you don't know those thing to begin with, formatting an e-book is a royal pain in the arse.
Why? Because you have to undo all those things that typing class taught you in high school. Ugh.
Another problem with doing it yourself is allllll the different formats that every e-reader uses. NOOK wants an epub file, KDP wants an html document, and Smashwords wants you to add returns at every page break so the meatgrinder can find where your pages split. If you're publishing a print version? .doc or .docx along with a PDF of the cover file is what you'll need.
Easy steps that I can advise that will take you far:
Make sure your manuscript is ready for publishing. Period. If it's not, don't bother doing any of the things below because you will have to re-do them all if you change something.
Follow the Smashwords Style Guide. You can download it via the link provided. It tells you how to get rid of tabs, apply different formats, create a table of contents and erase errant hyperlinks. Even if you aren't publishing with Smashwords, I recommend you pick up a copy now. It's free, why not?
Install the Calibre e-book management tool. You'll thank me later. It takes an .rtf file and makes it into an epub file with lots of cool options and little boxes to tick check-marks into.
I know, I know, I'm so informative! It's only because I love you all.
Now, after you have followed The Style Guide (without the extra returns between paragraphs or little cutesy icons) take your final file from word and save it as:
TITLE_SMASHWORDSFORMAT_JUNE142012.DOC
TITLE_NOOK_JUNE142012.RTF
TITLE_KINDLE_JUNE142012.HTML
TITLE_CREATESPACE_JUNE142012.DOCX
Make a folder for each site. Mine look like this:
Desktop>BooksWritingsEtc>Yassa>NOOK
and so on, and so forth.
Remember to open the original file every time before saving it out as something different. Obviously, use your title and the current date.
Revise the Smashwords version to be happy with the meatgrinder as instructed. Open Calibre and turn the .rtf into an epub. Save that as:
TITLE_NOOK_JUNE142012.EPUB
Make sure your cover follows each site's requirement for size and save each cover with the same extensions. Let your cover designer know where you are going to publish your book and what size your print version will be.
When/if you upload to Smashwords, go and opt out of distribution to NOOK and Amazon. Now, go upload your files and be HAPPY!
Yes, it's a lot of work but you're working for yourself and things will be the way you want them to be. No better reward than that, in my opinion.
Marketing is it's own beast but my best advice is to participate, network, and offer assistance to others. Above all else, have consistency. My name will always appear on my book in the same font, in the same place. Keep that in mind when working with a designer. Make it BIG. Your name is a selling point. No time to be shy now.
Another tool for marketing is Goodreads. I always publish a print version of my work and offer a giveaway on that site because it's just good business sense. You gotta get your book into the hands of people that will read it.
Now, for my frustrations with Smashwords. They took a while to approve me for premium distribution and send The Abigale Chronicles to iBooks and NOOK. I ended up opting out for Amazon distribution and doing it myself just last week. I am impatient. I opted to do both Amazon and NOOK myself in my second release. A little more work, to be sure, but I'm a happier camper for it. NOOK is still not showing the cover for Abigale but iBooks got it quickly after approval and it looks gorgeous there.
Sorry this was long winded but I hope you got some useful information out of it.
That's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
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