Happy Wednesday, good people of the blogosphere! I know I missed my post yesterday but I had good reason. I've been working on getting the new covers for the Mystic series ready for re-release and doing a lot of back editing. So far, I have a new interior and cover for Bronya and a new cover for Lily. These newest versions will be the ones I take with me to UtopYA Con in June of this year.
Are you all anxious to see them? Well, you've seen the standalone covers for these, so I won't bore you with those. What I'm gonna show you today is the newest interior formatting and the full wrap covers.
Ready?
First up, I give you book one:
As of now, you can get the newest print version of Bronya for $8.99 on Createspace here.
But, you can pick up the digital version FREE on Smashwords here.
Oh, you wanted to see the new interior, huh? Well, here you go:
Pretty, huh?
I guess it's time to show you the new cover for book two!
So, you can probably imagine what the others will look like.
Well, I hope you all enjoyed this little look into the new Mystic world. Each of these books are getting an overhaul in the editing department, too. So you have a lot to look forward to!
Well, that's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
A blog dedicated to the education and support of Indie authors.
Also striving to providing great book recommendations and reviews for readers.
Links and Books by Jo Michaels
Showing posts with label tolerance. Show all posts
Showing posts with label tolerance. Show all posts
Wednesday, March 19, 2014
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
Mystic~Melody Official Release Day
Happy Tuesday, blogospherians! Today is the official release day for Melody, book four of the Mystic series. I have some goodies for you all today! Get your clickin' finger ready. I'm gonna start off by giving you the cover, synopsis, and an excerpt (something I never do). Then, we'll get to the fun stuff! Ready? Let's go!
Title: Mystic ~ Melody (book four)
Author: Jo Michaels
Genre: New Adult Paranormal
Length: 120 printed pages
Amazon (Kindle): $3.99
Paperback: $8.99
Synopsis:
Melody Acworth sounds like an angel. If she's not careful, she'll become one soon. Enrolled in singing lessons at age seven, she took to the stage and began to get fan letters. Some were good, some were detrimental to her psyche.
When Melody sees magazines laden with beautiful girls, she begins to look at herself in the mirror and think she should look more like them. Her mind takes the cruel letters to a dark place and she stops eating altogether. Before long, she's in the clutches of death.
By the time Markaza, a mystic with purple hair and tattoos, shows up, Melody's on her last legs. It's either eat or die. Markaza works furiously to try and repair the mental damage done so she can get Melody to New York; where she must learn to use a power hidden deep within herself to save the world.
They're running out of time. As December 21, 2012 approaches at an alarming rate, Markaza's visions turn dark and foreboding. The creature grows stronger every day. Soon it will rise and destroy mankind unless all six women band together to fight it.
Melody must be saved or the world will be destroyed.
Now, an excerpt!
Here's an entry form for a Rafflecopter giveaway. I'm giving away two Kindle copies.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Both of these giveaways end on October 1, 2013.
But wait! There's more! More? How can there be more? Well, check this out:
Mystic~Bronya is FREE through Thursday over on Amazon. If you pick it up, please be kind and tweet about the freebie you grabbed or post it to Facebook.
Mystic~Lily has been REDUCED to $0.99!
Mystic~Shelia has been REDUCED to $2.99!
Mystic~Coralie will be releasing in the next month or so. If you click the name, it'll take you to an info page on my website where you can read all about it. ***HOT TIP*** You can also grab some great downloads from the FREEBIES page on my site. LOVE IT?
What are you waiting for? Get going and enter already! *happy dance*
While you're here, don't forget to check out the guest post from M.R. Polish that went live yesterday.
Well, that's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
Title: Mystic ~ Melody (book four)
Author: Jo Michaels
Genre: New Adult Paranormal
Length: 120 printed pages
Amazon (Kindle): $3.99
Paperback: $8.99
Synopsis:
Melody Acworth sounds like an angel. If she's not careful, she'll become one soon. Enrolled in singing lessons at age seven, she took to the stage and began to get fan letters. Some were good, some were detrimental to her psyche.
When Melody sees magazines laden with beautiful girls, she begins to look at herself in the mirror and think she should look more like them. Her mind takes the cruel letters to a dark place and she stops eating altogether. Before long, she's in the clutches of death.
By the time Markaza, a mystic with purple hair and tattoos, shows up, Melody's on her last legs. It's either eat or die. Markaza works furiously to try and repair the mental damage done so she can get Melody to New York; where she must learn to use a power hidden deep within herself to save the world.
They're running out of time. As December 21, 2012 approaches at an alarming rate, Markaza's visions turn dark and foreboding. The creature grows stronger every day. Soon it will rise and destroy mankind unless all six women band together to fight it.
Melody must be saved or the world will be destroyed.
Now, an excerpt!
*****
Markaza leaned forward and put a hand on Melody’s knee. “I’m sorry that happened. I can only imagine how crushed you must’ve been.”
“It was horrible. The look in her eyes scared me more than anything. I still don’t know why that watch shattered.”
“To teach her a lesson.” Markaza’s voice took on a vicious edge. “Tell me about the letter.”
Melody chewed her lip. “What letter?”
“Don’t play dumb. The one you mentioned earlier.”
They locked eyes, and Melody felt like the information was being pulled right out. With a shaky hand, she reached into her back pocket and produced the worn paper. As she passed it over, she realized she must’ve folded it back up and replaced it after her run automatically. She shook her head.
As Markaza read the words on the page, her face contorted and her nostrils flared. When she slapped it down on her knee and curled her fingers into claws, Melody thought the girl was about to punch something.
“Who sent this to you?”
“I don’t know. It isn’t signed and the envelope didn’t have a return address.”
Markaza’s eyes roamed up and down Melody’s body. “Is this the reason you’ve done that to yourself?”
Saying nothing, Melody turned her head and peered out the window. She felt her stomach tighten so hard it made her toes curl.
They rode the rest of the way in silence.
When they arrived, Melody ushered her new friend straight upstairs from the foyer. There was no way Mom could find out the girl was there. Mom would flip out, and there was no telling what Markaza would do; she looked dangerous.
Melody pushed through the door, closed it, and turned the lock. She figured she was eighteen and there was no reason she couldn’t lock her door. Besides, if all went well, she’d be gone soon anyway. No locked doors was a bullshit rule.
Markaza was standing stock-still, staring at something.
“What?” Melody asked.
“You have a poster of Lily Conyers on your wall.” Markaza gestured to the huge ad taking up half the wall by the bed.
“Yeah? So?”
“She works for WSTW now.”
Melody’s mouth dropped open and she squealed. “Really? Do you think I could meet her if I go to work for them? I just love her! She’s sooooo beautiful!”
“You know what? I think that’s a pretty good idea. But you’re gonna have to work really hard to get well if you ever want to meet Lily. She’s pretty popular, you know.” Markaza was grinning, but it didn’t look like a happy smile.
Wolfish was the only word Melody could think of to describe it. A shiver ran up her spine. “So, umm, what do I need to take with me?”
“Just what matters most; things that can’t be replaced at a store. Don’t worry about a lot of clothes or shoes,” Markaza answered.
Melody opened a small suitcase on the bed and began throwing things into it. Most of what she decided to take had sentimental value rather than monetary: an old pocket-sized photo album, some jewelry she’d gotten as gifts from special people, a few outfits, and two pair of shoes.
A shaking of the door handle followed by a knock reverberated through the room, and Melody froze mid-stride.
“Melody? You better unlock this damned door right now!” Debra’s voice floated through the room, and her daughter moved toward the door as though pulled by some invisible force.
Markaza stepped forward and blocked the path. “Tell her you’ll be down in a minute.”
“I can’t. She’ll be so pissed!” Melody whispered. After a moment of silence, she relented. “I’ll be down in a minute, Mom.”
“No. You’ll open the door this very instant!”
Heat filled Melody’s body as her voice rose. “No! I’m not a baby. You’re done treating me like one! I said I’ll be down in a minute, and that’s what I mean.” She was trembling from head to toe; but, somehow, Markaza’s presence was providing strength.
“I’m calling your father!”
Melody groaned and put her head in her hands. “Now I’ve done it.”
Markaza grabbed the girl’s trembling arms. “Stop it. She won’t hurt you with me here. Get your stuff and let’s go.”
*****
Now, on to the fun stuff!
First, there's a giveaway for four printed, signed copies going on over at Goodreads. You can enter here:
Here's an entry form for a Rafflecopter giveaway. I'm giving away two Kindle copies.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Both of these giveaways end on October 1, 2013.
But wait! There's more! More? How can there be more? Well, check this out:
Mystic~Bronya is FREE through Thursday over on Amazon. If you pick it up, please be kind and tweet about the freebie you grabbed or post it to Facebook.
Mystic~Lily has been REDUCED to $0.99!
Mystic~Shelia has been REDUCED to $2.99!
Mystic~Coralie will be releasing in the next month or so. If you click the name, it'll take you to an info page on my website where you can read all about it. ***HOT TIP*** You can also grab some great downloads from the FREEBIES page on my site. LOVE IT?
What are you waiting for? Get going and enter already! *happy dance*
While you're here, don't forget to check out the guest post from M.R. Polish that went live yesterday.
Well, that's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
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Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Release Day and Special Bundle Pack
It's release day! You can now purchase The Abigale Chronicles - Book Three at Amazon!
But WAIT! I have a super special for all you folks with kids who love Abigale! You can get ALL THREE books for half the price! How? I've released a special bundle edition in celebration! Keep reading...
I decided that I wanted to do something special for all of Abigale's fans. So, for half the price of buying each book individually, you can own all three! This three book collection will be pulled from the shelves in February 2013 so you want to jump in and grab it now. Here's the deal:
At just $2.99, you're saving almost three dollars by buying the complete collection as one.
It will NOT be available in print. This is a Kindle ONLY limited edition.
Available on Amazon.
The Abigale Chronicles - Book Three - Young Readers (Series)
If you already have the first two, you can pick up The Abigale Chronicles - Book Three for just $1.99 on Amazon. If you prefer print books, feel free to hop over to CreateSpace and grab a paperback copy for just $5.99.
Synopsis:
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?
While you're here, don't forget to go enter the rafflecopter drawing for your chance at Bronya and Lily; book one and two of the Mystic series.
Click me to get to the widget!
I'd like to say thank you again to the 100 great fans of my FaceBook page for making it happen!
Well, that's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
But WAIT! I have a super special for all you folks with kids who love Abigale! You can get ALL THREE books for half the price! How? I've released a special bundle edition in celebration! Keep reading...
I decided that I wanted to do something special for all of Abigale's fans. So, for half the price of buying each book individually, you can own all three! This three book collection will be pulled from the shelves in February 2013 so you want to jump in and grab it now. Here's the deal:
At just $2.99, you're saving almost three dollars by buying the complete collection as one.
It will NOT be available in print. This is a Kindle ONLY limited edition.
Available on Amazon.
The Abigale Chronicles - Book Three - Young Readers (Series)
If you already have the first two, you can pick up The Abigale Chronicles - Book Three for just $1.99 on Amazon. If you prefer print books, feel free to hop over to CreateSpace and grab a paperback copy for just $5.99.
Synopsis:
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?
While you're here, don't forget to go enter the rafflecopter drawing for your chance at Bronya and Lily; book one and two of the Mystic series.
Click me to get to the widget!
I'd like to say thank you again to the 100 great fans of my FaceBook page for making it happen!
Well, that's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
Friday, September 21, 2012
100 FB Page Like Giveaway!
Easy to enter, easy to win!! One printed copy of each of the books below, signed. Plus! One printed copy of Bronya, signed.
You have 1 week to enter as many times as you wish. GO!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Here are the fabulous prizes:
A copy of Mystic ~ Bronya
Synopsis:
Bronya Thibodeaux is a senior at Houma High School whose life is about to be changed forever. She's always felt like an outcast, but thinks she may have found a friend when a strange, new girl named Markaza who has blue hair, a number of tattoos, and a strange way of dressing appears. She accepts Bronya for who she is and the two hit it off.
Markaza isn’t around long before she moves away. Bronya goes back to feeling lonely and different. Trouble arises when Bronya's love interest - a girl named Cecilia - is accidentally revealed to the entire student body. Bronya’s life choices make her a pariah in her small town. After getting thrown out of school, not being able to find a job, and being subjected to ridicule and cruel treatment, Bronya chooses to leave her old life behind forever when she receives a compelling invitation from a mysterious company named WSTW.
What Bronya doesn't know, is the mysterious company is owned by Markaza; a mystic who knows the end of the world is coming and is gathering together the only people who can stop the evil that's threatening to take over. Bronya is just the first. But going to New York is only a baby step toward her true journey. As Bronya races against the clock to unlock a power she never knew she had, Markaza races to collect the others: Lily, Sheila, Melody, and Coralie.
A PRE-RELEASE copy of Mystic ~ Lily
Synopsis:
Lily Conyers is a twenty-year-old who had it all going for her until a car crash left her with terrible scars, no modeling job, and an addiction to pain killers. When she meets a strange young woman named Markaza, Lily begins to re-build her life with encouragement from her new friend.
Problems arise when Lily leaves the safety of her apartment for the first time since her accident to venture back into the world she used to know. Her so-called friends shun her and her boyfriend recoils at the sight of her face; leaving her standing in the road alone - crying. She rushes home with thoughts of suicide only to find a letter on her step from a company called WSTW; promising her a new life.
Lily packs her bags, bids Markaza goodbye, and sets off for the city. But going to New York is only the first hurdle Lily must jump. She must learn to use the power inside herself to help defeat an evil that is threatening to destroy the world. Once there, she meets a girl named Bronya and the two help one another re-build what was so negligently broken.
As Lily is boarding the plane bound for New York, Markaza boards another headed to Tennessee so she can collect the next young woman on her list: Sheila.
Good Luck to you all!!
That's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
You have 1 week to enter as many times as you wish. GO!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Here are the fabulous prizes:
A copy of Mystic ~ Bronya
Synopsis:
Bronya Thibodeaux is a senior at Houma High School whose life is about to be changed forever. She's always felt like an outcast, but thinks she may have found a friend when a strange, new girl named Markaza who has blue hair, a number of tattoos, and a strange way of dressing appears. She accepts Bronya for who she is and the two hit it off.
Markaza isn’t around long before she moves away. Bronya goes back to feeling lonely and different. Trouble arises when Bronya's love interest - a girl named Cecilia - is accidentally revealed to the entire student body. Bronya’s life choices make her a pariah in her small town. After getting thrown out of school, not being able to find a job, and being subjected to ridicule and cruel treatment, Bronya chooses to leave her old life behind forever when she receives a compelling invitation from a mysterious company named WSTW.
What Bronya doesn't know, is the mysterious company is owned by Markaza; a mystic who knows the end of the world is coming and is gathering together the only people who can stop the evil that's threatening to take over. Bronya is just the first. But going to New York is only a baby step toward her true journey. As Bronya races against the clock to unlock a power she never knew she had, Markaza races to collect the others: Lily, Sheila, Melody, and Coralie.
A PRE-RELEASE copy of Mystic ~ Lily
Synopsis:
Lily Conyers is a twenty-year-old who had it all going for her until a car crash left her with terrible scars, no modeling job, and an addiction to pain killers. When she meets a strange young woman named Markaza, Lily begins to re-build her life with encouragement from her new friend.
Problems arise when Lily leaves the safety of her apartment for the first time since her accident to venture back into the world she used to know. Her so-called friends shun her and her boyfriend recoils at the sight of her face; leaving her standing in the road alone - crying. She rushes home with thoughts of suicide only to find a letter on her step from a company called WSTW; promising her a new life.
Lily packs her bags, bids Markaza goodbye, and sets off for the city. But going to New York is only the first hurdle Lily must jump. She must learn to use the power inside herself to help defeat an evil that is threatening to destroy the world. Once there, she meets a girl named Bronya and the two help one another re-build what was so negligently broken.
As Lily is boarding the plane bound for New York, Markaza boards another headed to Tennessee so she can collect the next young woman on her list: Sheila.
Good Luck to you all!!
That's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Week 13: The Next Big Thing
Welcome
to The Next Big Thing Blog Hop! By hopping through the blogs on my page, you’ll
have the opportunity to discover some great new authors and read about some
great new books coming soon. I encourage you to visit as many as possible.
I was tagged by Mr. Robert Chazz Chute of Chazz Writes.
Without
further ado, let’s get going!
My ten questions and answers:
There
are two: Mystic ~ Lily and The Abigale Chronicles – Book Three. This is a doubly special blog post because it's also a cover reveal for The Abigale Chronicles.
Where
did the idea come from for the book?
The
idea for Lily came from the idea for the whole Mystic series. I wanted a strong
woman with values that were solid. When she breaks down and betrays those
values because of her situation, it gives me an opportunity to show how one can
recover from a fall. All my characters in this series are strong women who
fight through tough times and make a pact to change the world. I want to speak
to people and make them consider a different point of view for once.
As for
The Abigale Chronicles, my six-year-old daughter gave me the idea. I write the
series for her and she requested (very politely) that there be dragons,
fairies, princesses, and knights. So, for the third book in the Abigale series,
I gave her exactly what she asked for. She giggled a lot while we read it.
What
genre does your book fall under?
Lily
falls under the genres paranormal and urban fiction while The Abigale
Chronicles are chapter books for young readers.
Which
actors would you choose to play your characters in a movie rendition?
Wow!
What a great question! I would have to say, for Lily, she would be played by
either Sara Paxton or Hayden Panettiere (of course, if Hayden, she would need
some way to look much taller, perhaps) and Markaza would be played by Hailee
Steinfeld because she has that edgy look. Elisabeth Moss for Shelia and Cobie Smulders
for Bronya. For Abigale, Emma Furhman and for Emmett, Max Records.
What is
the one-sentence synopsis of your book?
Mystic
~ Lily: The second of six women, one battle to save the world.
The
Abigale Chronicles – Book Three: A dragon, a princess, and a knight fight all
odds to give the one true gift: kindness to another.
Will
your book be self-published or represented by an agency?
They
will both be self-published.
How
long did it take you to write the first draft of your manuscript?
It took
me three weeks to write Lily and a week and a half to write Abigale.
What
other books would you compare this story to within your genre?
There
are no other books like these that I’ve found. If you see some, point me that
way, please.
Who or
What inspired you to write this book?
My
daughter inspired me to write The Abigale Chronicles.
The
hate in the world inspired me to write the Mystic books. I feel like I have a
voice inside of me struggling to get out and change perception. Tolerance and judgement of others are topics I have strong opinions on.
What
else about your book might pique the reader’s interest?
This installment of The
Abigale Chronicles has lots of humor for children. My daughter cracked up when
the dragon burped and set things on fire.
Mystic
deals with tolerance of people that make life choices that are different. I
hope people really pay attention to the unique chance they have to see the world
through someone else’s eyes. If you know anyone (or been through it yourself)
who’s dealt with being homosexual and hidden, depressed, disfigured, addicted
to drugs, anorexic, abused as a child, or anyone who’s made that difficult
decision to have an abortion, you’ll “get” this series. It will speak to you.
You can find the first book in the Mystic series here: Mystic ~ Bronya
You can find the first book in the Mystic series here: Mystic ~ Bronya
Now the links for my five fellow bloggers:
I hope you've all enjoyed this blog for The Next Big Thing Blog Hop. Keep going and meet some other wonderful authors!!
Well, that's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
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Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Passions
Happy Wednesday, people of the blogosphere! Passion is the topic of the day today. For authors, especially indie authors, passion is something we are allowed in great heaping spoonfuls. Why especially indie authors? Well, we don't have anyone telling us what we can and cannot write about. We don't have anyone saying, "If you write that, we won't publish it!"
Talk about freedom!
There are millions of books out there that have been published by indie authors. Why have I not heard more about books that make a difference in the way people think or see the world? We have the freedom to write whatever we want in our own voices.
I wrote Yassa because I was passionate about the untold love story between Genghis Khan and Borte. I wanted so badly to share that with the world. I had a reason to write it (not a monetary one) and it drove me to start and finish a wonderful piece of work.
I wrote The Abigale Chronicles series as a way to show children they could travel anywhere with a book and have great adventures through the written word. Why does that matter to me? Because I'm a reader and I've had those adventures through books myself. I want to encourage kids to read more. Reading and writing is the basis for all communication (even math).
I'm writing Mystic as a way to try and make a change. I am passionate about the overlying theme of the books: tolerance and acceptance of people no matter what their differences are. Gay rights and equality (Bronya) is a topic I believe strongly in because I see what some of my friends and cousins have gone through just trying to be happy with who they are despite the opinions of others. Seeing past a deformity or heinous appearance (Lily) is close to my heart because I knew some of those girls in high school and saw what people did to them (behind their backs and to their faces). Each of the women in my books have something unique about them that causes people to judge. I'm hoping to either cause just ONE person to stop and think with my words or show just ONE person that, even if they are different, they do have strength.
I have said it before, I'll say it again: THE PEN IS MIGHTIER THAN THE SWORD. I implore indie authors to try and make a difference through their words. For you, for me, for the whole human race. You have passion for something. Talk about it.
What topics are you passionate about? Are you afraid to write about it? Why?
Well, that's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
Talk about freedom!
There are millions of books out there that have been published by indie authors. Why have I not heard more about books that make a difference in the way people think or see the world? We have the freedom to write whatever we want in our own voices.
I wrote Yassa because I was passionate about the untold love story between Genghis Khan and Borte. I wanted so badly to share that with the world. I had a reason to write it (not a monetary one) and it drove me to start and finish a wonderful piece of work.
I wrote The Abigale Chronicles series as a way to show children they could travel anywhere with a book and have great adventures through the written word. Why does that matter to me? Because I'm a reader and I've had those adventures through books myself. I want to encourage kids to read more. Reading and writing is the basis for all communication (even math).
I'm writing Mystic as a way to try and make a change. I am passionate about the overlying theme of the books: tolerance and acceptance of people no matter what their differences are. Gay rights and equality (Bronya) is a topic I believe strongly in because I see what some of my friends and cousins have gone through just trying to be happy with who they are despite the opinions of others. Seeing past a deformity or heinous appearance (Lily) is close to my heart because I knew some of those girls in high school and saw what people did to them (behind their backs and to their faces). Each of the women in my books have something unique about them that causes people to judge. I'm hoping to either cause just ONE person to stop and think with my words or show just ONE person that, even if they are different, they do have strength.
I have said it before, I'll say it again: THE PEN IS MIGHTIER THAN THE SWORD. I implore indie authors to try and make a difference through their words. For you, for me, for the whole human race. You have passion for something. Talk about it.
What topics are you passionate about? Are you afraid to write about it? Why?
Well, that's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
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Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Holiday Weekend and Triberr
Well, I went out of town for the holiday weekend, as I'm sure many people did, and my brain had a glorious chance to reset itself. I am raring to go on Mystic ~ Shelia and The Abigale Chronicles - Book Three. I can't wait to get back to writing. Looks like a 10am start for me today. Ah well, catching up on e-mails is the fun part, right?
On another note, I checked out a new service called Triberr. I have a few first impressions that I'd like to share:
1. Their UI is difficult to navigate and leaves a lot of unanswered questions.
2. I loved the idea behind the service but, once I got into it knee-deep, I'm a bit disenchanted.
3. They use a currency they call "bones" and you need them to join other tribes. Once again, it all comes down to spending money. Why would I do that if I have a free blog and an RSS feed already? Hmmmm?
4. When I read about their service, I was eager to try it out. It didn't take me long to get lost in the muck. Please understand, I'm a very VERY savvy internet and service user. This was like: I'm supposed to click where for what?
5. Triberr wanted permission to post on my FB wall and update my Twitter feed. I am always hesitant when giving access to my stuff by any app, much less one I know very little about.
So, there you have my first impressions. I'm gonna give them a shot and will update you all later on what I find.
If you entered the contest on my blog for a copy of Soul Sisters, please visit here to see if you won. Thanks to everyone who participated!!
My giveaway for a copy of Mystic ~ Bronya over on Goodreads is now over. If you entered that one, please go see if you'll be getting a copy in your mailbox anytime soon. Thanks to the 775 people who requested it. I am humbled and honored by your zeal.
Well, that's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
On another note, I checked out a new service called Triberr. I have a few first impressions that I'd like to share:
1. Their UI is difficult to navigate and leaves a lot of unanswered questions.
2. I loved the idea behind the service but, once I got into it knee-deep, I'm a bit disenchanted.
3. They use a currency they call "bones" and you need them to join other tribes. Once again, it all comes down to spending money. Why would I do that if I have a free blog and an RSS feed already? Hmmmm?
4. When I read about their service, I was eager to try it out. It didn't take me long to get lost in the muck. Please understand, I'm a very VERY savvy internet and service user. This was like: I'm supposed to click where for what?
5. Triberr wanted permission to post on my FB wall and update my Twitter feed. I am always hesitant when giving access to my stuff by any app, much less one I know very little about.
So, there you have my first impressions. I'm gonna give them a shot and will update you all later on what I find.
If you entered the contest on my blog for a copy of Soul Sisters, please visit here to see if you won. Thanks to everyone who participated!!
My giveaway for a copy of Mystic ~ Bronya over on Goodreads is now over. If you entered that one, please go see if you'll be getting a copy in your mailbox anytime soon. Thanks to the 775 people who requested it. I am humbled and honored by your zeal.
Well, that's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
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Tuesday, August 21, 2012
The Hungry Freelancer Beth Jones
Happy Tuesday, everyone! For any of you that have been following my blog, I bet you remember my blog party and the great list of blogs I posted for you to check out and follow. Today, I'm going to bring back one of those folks I listed on Day 1. Her name is Beth Jones @bethythewriter. You may know her as The Hungry Freelancer from her blog by the same name.
Beth just released a book titled The Hungry Freelancer: How to Break Into (and Succeed In) the World of Freelance Writing and I'd like to take a moment to tell you all a little about it.
Synopsis:
If you've ever dreamed of being a writer but don't know how to get started, this book is for you.
The Hungry Freelancer: How to Break Into (and Succeed In) the World of Freelance Writing walks you through, step-by-step, the process of becoming a freelance writer. You don't need a college degree or years of experience to succeed as a writer, and this book shows you how. For just $2.99 on Amazon Kindle, you'll learn how to get started as a writer, how to write your first article, how to start making money, and how to find new, exciting jobs that will bring in fast cash. Chapters include: 1. The Art of Storytelling; 2. "Writer" VS "Author; 3. Where to Start; 4. How to Find (and Keep) Clients; 5. Making Money; 6. Writing it Down. Whether you're an experienced journalist who wants to jump into online writing or a stay-at-home mom who wants to supplement her income, The Hungry Freelancer will help you reach your writing goals.
Doesn't that sound like an amazing read? Now, a little about the author, Beth Jones.
Author Bio:
Beth Jones is a freelance writer who currently resides in Maryland with her husband, sons, and cat. When she's not busy writing, Jones enjoys spending time outdoors absorbed in a good mystery novel. A military wife, Jones has lived all over the U.S. and has worked as a writer in many different cities.
You can find Beth on Twitter @bethythewriter and you'll love giving her FaceBook page a like. Come on, everyone needs to feel the love!
As a recap, you can find The Hungry Freelancer: How to Break Into (and Succeed In) the World of Freelance Writing on Amazon by clicking the link here. It's just $2.99. Pocket change you can turn into a regular paycheck!
On to some more great news! You can now purchase Mystic ~ Bronya in both paperback and Kindle versions. Also, as you can see on the widget, the Goodreads giveaway has begun! Make sure you enter for your chance to win!
Well, that's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
Beth just released a book titled The Hungry Freelancer: How to Break Into (and Succeed In) the World of Freelance Writing and I'd like to take a moment to tell you all a little about it.
Synopsis:
If you've ever dreamed of being a writer but don't know how to get started, this book is for you.
The Hungry Freelancer: How to Break Into (and Succeed In) the World of Freelance Writing walks you through, step-by-step, the process of becoming a freelance writer. You don't need a college degree or years of experience to succeed as a writer, and this book shows you how. For just $2.99 on Amazon Kindle, you'll learn how to get started as a writer, how to write your first article, how to start making money, and how to find new, exciting jobs that will bring in fast cash. Chapters include: 1. The Art of Storytelling; 2. "Writer" VS "Author; 3. Where to Start; 4. How to Find (and Keep) Clients; 5. Making Money; 6. Writing it Down. Whether you're an experienced journalist who wants to jump into online writing or a stay-at-home mom who wants to supplement her income, The Hungry Freelancer will help you reach your writing goals.
Doesn't that sound like an amazing read? Now, a little about the author, Beth Jones.
Author Bio:
Beth Jones is a freelance writer who currently resides in Maryland with her husband, sons, and cat. When she's not busy writing, Jones enjoys spending time outdoors absorbed in a good mystery novel. A military wife, Jones has lived all over the U.S. and has worked as a writer in many different cities.
You can find Beth on Twitter @bethythewriter and you'll love giving her FaceBook page a like. Come on, everyone needs to feel the love!
As a recap, you can find The Hungry Freelancer: How to Break Into (and Succeed In) the World of Freelance Writing on Amazon by clicking the link here. It's just $2.99. Pocket change you can turn into a regular paycheck!
On to some more great news! You can now purchase Mystic ~ Bronya in both paperback and Kindle versions. Also, as you can see on the widget, the Goodreads giveaway has begun! Make sure you enter for your chance to win!
Well, that's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
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Friday, August 10, 2012
I'm Gonna Fire You Up
Mystic ~ Bronya is edited and ready to roll off the presses after some formatting. It's a novelette of just over 17,000 words so it shouldn't take you long to get through it. What I'm hoping, however, is that you do read it and you do take something away from it.
My goal here is to show you what happens on the other side of the wall you're staring at. I will show you what it's like when someone ridicules you or tells you you're a heathen, grotesque, immoral, or that you brought everything that happened to you on yourself when you find yourself in circumstances beyond your control or understanding. This series is intended to let you see into the world of another person who may be different from you, and what the ultimate consequences of not stepping around that wall could be.
If you disagree with my message, that's your right. Many people will. That's okay. Bronya goes through some pretty tough times and experiences a lot in her short tale. Lily is struggling with different issues but they are just as difficult to stomach.
Mystic ~ Lily is currently sitting at just over 3,000 words that have made me cry, shake, get angry, and be sad. Her tale is a lot like Bronya's because Lily's choices also change her life and the people that surround her can't accept her anymore.
I consider myself lucky because I have a voice that speaks loudly and clearly and I'm not afraid to use it.
If you're a writer and you're reading this blog, I challenge you to write something you believe in with all your heart. Buck the consequences, get out there, and fire people up with your message. Books have shaped the world as we know it.
The pen is mightier than the sword. Use your pen and make a difference.
Everyone has an opinion. Yes, they are like assholes in that everyone has one but no one wants to hear them. Make people want to hear yours. Make them listen. Present your case in a compelling way. Show them something they don't already know or give them information they may not have been privy to before.
I double-dog dare you.
I can almost guarantee it'll be the best writing that's ever dripped from your fingertips onto a keyboard. You have passion, use it.
Now that I've gotten you all worked up and your brain going a million mph, I invite you to check out my interview posted over on the Chapter Book Challenge blog. Go give it a read and tell Becky I said, "Hello!"
Well, that's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
My goal here is to show you what happens on the other side of the wall you're staring at. I will show you what it's like when someone ridicules you or tells you you're a heathen, grotesque, immoral, or that you brought everything that happened to you on yourself when you find yourself in circumstances beyond your control or understanding. This series is intended to let you see into the world of another person who may be different from you, and what the ultimate consequences of not stepping around that wall could be.
If you disagree with my message, that's your right. Many people will. That's okay. Bronya goes through some pretty tough times and experiences a lot in her short tale. Lily is struggling with different issues but they are just as difficult to stomach.
Mystic ~ Lily is currently sitting at just over 3,000 words that have made me cry, shake, get angry, and be sad. Her tale is a lot like Bronya's because Lily's choices also change her life and the people that surround her can't accept her anymore.
I consider myself lucky because I have a voice that speaks loudly and clearly and I'm not afraid to use it.
If you're a writer and you're reading this blog, I challenge you to write something you believe in with all your heart. Buck the consequences, get out there, and fire people up with your message. Books have shaped the world as we know it.
The pen is mightier than the sword. Use your pen and make a difference.
Everyone has an opinion. Yes, they are like assholes in that everyone has one but no one wants to hear them. Make people want to hear yours. Make them listen. Present your case in a compelling way. Show them something they don't already know or give them information they may not have been privy to before.
I double-dog dare you.
I can almost guarantee it'll be the best writing that's ever dripped from your fingertips onto a keyboard. You have passion, use it.
Now that I've gotten you all worked up and your brain going a million mph, I invite you to check out my interview posted over on the Chapter Book Challenge blog. Go give it a read and tell Becky I said, "Hello!"
Well, that's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
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Wednesday, August 8, 2012
Mystic ~ Bronya: Cover Reveal
Today is the big day, as promised. I'm showing you the covers for the first two books in my Mystic series. It was not an easy decision but I think I did a decent job. Enjoy!
Since the series is based around things seen in a crystal ball and the possible demolition and death of the world, I chose to go this route. Turns out, my beta viewers loved it as well.
I am happy with the way they worked out and believe my design choices to be solid ones. My typography fits with the story and screams, "Otherworldly but serious."
I used my own photograph for the cloud element and built the rest with a pen and a Wacom Intuos 4.
Keep an eye on either my Amazon author page or my bibliography for the release of Mystic~Bronya later this month.
What do you think of the cover?
Well, that's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
Since the series is based around things seen in a crystal ball and the possible demolition and death of the world, I chose to go this route. Turns out, my beta viewers loved it as well.
I am happy with the way they worked out and believe my design choices to be solid ones. My typography fits with the story and screams, "Otherworldly but serious."
I used my own photograph for the cloud element and built the rest with a pen and a Wacom Intuos 4.
Keep an eye on either my Amazon author page or my bibliography for the release of Mystic~Bronya later this month.
What do you think of the cover?
Well, that's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
Mystic ~ Bronya: Tolerance and Hate
As promised, today you all get a deeper look into my Mystic series. It's six books in all with five novellas and a full-length novel at the end. I won't give away the ending, nor will I explain what the monster is an embodiment of but read on and become intrigued.
This is the synopsis for the first book in the series Bronya.
Bronya Thibodeaux is an eighteen-year-old senior at Houma High School whose life is about to be changed forever. She's always felt like an outcast, but thinks she may have found a friend when a strange, new girl named Markaza who has blue hair, a number of tattoos, and a strange way of dressing appears. She accepts Bronya for who she is and the two hit it off.
Markaza isn’t around long before she moves away. Bronya goes back to feeling lonely and different. Trouble arises when Bronya's love interest - a girl named Cecilia - is accidentally revealed to the entire student body. Bronya’s life choices make her a pariah in her small town. After getting thrown out of school, not being able to find a job, and being subjected to ridicule and cruel treatment, Bronya chooses to leave her old life behind forever when she receives a compelling invitation from a mysterious company named WSTW.
What Bronya doesn't know, is the mysterious company is owned by Markaza; a mystic who knows the end of the world is coming and is gathering together the only people who can stop the evil that's threatening to take over. Bronya is just the first. But going to New York is only a baby step toward her true journey. As Bronya races against the clock to unlock a power she never knew she had, Markaza races to collect the others: Lily, Sheila, Melody, and Coralie.
This is the synopsis for the second book in the series Lily.
Lily Conyers is a twenty-year-old who had it all going for her until a car crash left her with terrible scars, no modeling job, and an addiction to pain killers. When she meets a strange young woman named Markaza, Lily begins to re-build her life with encouragement from her new friend.
Problems arise when Lily leaves the safety of her apartment for the first time since her accident to venture back into the world she used to know. Her so-called friends shun her and her boyfriend recoils at the sight of her face; leaving her standing in the road alone - crying. She rushes home with thoughts of suicide only to find a letter on her step from a company called WSTW; promising her a new life.
Lily packs her bags, bids Markaza goodbye, and sets off for the city. But going to New York is only the first hurdle Lily must jump. She must learn to use the power inside herself to help defeat an evil that is threatening to destroy the world. Once there, she meets a girl named Bronya and the two help one another re-build what was so negligently broken.
As Lily is boarding the plane bound for New York, Markaza boards another headed to Tennessee so she can collect the next young woman on her list: Sheila.
_________________________________________________________________
As a note: I'm a person who speaks out against taking offense to anyone just because they make choices I don't. We're all human and we need to practice a little humanity. I know I want to be accepted just as I am so I'm accepting in return. I don't care what choices you make, I'm going to do my best to understand you and accept you for who you are. We all need to follow the Golden Rule and just stop allowing hate to live in our hearts.
Just because someone is different, doesn't mean they're bad or evil. The true evil, in my opinion, is the hate and judgment that's thrown around so freely.
Would you want to be judged because of your life choices? Guess what? No one else does either. I don't wish for free love or think there should be no war (sometimes it's necessary to protect what we hold dear, like freedom), what I do wish I could see is human beings stop fighting one another to conform. We're all different. If you shun everyone who is different from you, eventually you'll be all alone. Start looking at a person's heart instead of their life choices and I promise you, your quality of life will improve.
Countless men and women have died fighting for freedom. We show our disrespect for their sacrifice every time we put someone else down for their choices. This is AMERICA the BEAUTIFUL. Let's work harder to keep it the land of the FREE and show our appreciation for those that died for the cause, shall we?
I'm going to share something with you all now that I was ashamed to see happen. When you click on the link, go to the section labeled History and read the last paragraph. Can you believe these folks wanted to do this?
Link to Wiki article.
I started writing Mystic ~ Bronya a good while back (I always have a number of works going at once) and slated it for release this month. I couldn't think of a better time considering the hate I'm seeing spewed all over the news about Chik-Fil-A and what was said. It saddens me. I have faith in humanity as a general collective but, once in a while, I'm let down. This was one of those times.
When you pick it up, be sure and read my author's note. It might give you a new way of seeing the world. I'll do the cover reveal later in the week.
Watch my Amazon author page for the release of Mystic~Bronya.
Well, that's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
This is the synopsis for the first book in the series Bronya.
Bronya Thibodeaux is an eighteen-year-old senior at Houma High School whose life is about to be changed forever. She's always felt like an outcast, but thinks she may have found a friend when a strange, new girl named Markaza who has blue hair, a number of tattoos, and a strange way of dressing appears. She accepts Bronya for who she is and the two hit it off.
Markaza isn’t around long before she moves away. Bronya goes back to feeling lonely and different. Trouble arises when Bronya's love interest - a girl named Cecilia - is accidentally revealed to the entire student body. Bronya’s life choices make her a pariah in her small town. After getting thrown out of school, not being able to find a job, and being subjected to ridicule and cruel treatment, Bronya chooses to leave her old life behind forever when she receives a compelling invitation from a mysterious company named WSTW.
What Bronya doesn't know, is the mysterious company is owned by Markaza; a mystic who knows the end of the world is coming and is gathering together the only people who can stop the evil that's threatening to take over. Bronya is just the first. But going to New York is only a baby step toward her true journey. As Bronya races against the clock to unlock a power she never knew she had, Markaza races to collect the others: Lily, Sheila, Melody, and Coralie.
This is the synopsis for the second book in the series Lily.
Lily Conyers is a twenty-year-old who had it all going for her until a car crash left her with terrible scars, no modeling job, and an addiction to pain killers. When she meets a strange young woman named Markaza, Lily begins to re-build her life with encouragement from her new friend.
Problems arise when Lily leaves the safety of her apartment for the first time since her accident to venture back into the world she used to know. Her so-called friends shun her and her boyfriend recoils at the sight of her face; leaving her standing in the road alone - crying. She rushes home with thoughts of suicide only to find a letter on her step from a company called WSTW; promising her a new life.
Lily packs her bags, bids Markaza goodbye, and sets off for the city. But going to New York is only the first hurdle Lily must jump. She must learn to use the power inside herself to help defeat an evil that is threatening to destroy the world. Once there, she meets a girl named Bronya and the two help one another re-build what was so negligently broken.
As Lily is boarding the plane bound for New York, Markaza boards another headed to Tennessee so she can collect the next young woman on her list: Sheila.
_________________________________________________________________
As a note: I'm a person who speaks out against taking offense to anyone just because they make choices I don't. We're all human and we need to practice a little humanity. I know I want to be accepted just as I am so I'm accepting in return. I don't care what choices you make, I'm going to do my best to understand you and accept you for who you are. We all need to follow the Golden Rule and just stop allowing hate to live in our hearts.
Just because someone is different, doesn't mean they're bad or evil. The true evil, in my opinion, is the hate and judgment that's thrown around so freely.
Would you want to be judged because of your life choices? Guess what? No one else does either. I don't wish for free love or think there should be no war (sometimes it's necessary to protect what we hold dear, like freedom), what I do wish I could see is human beings stop fighting one another to conform. We're all different. If you shun everyone who is different from you, eventually you'll be all alone. Start looking at a person's heart instead of their life choices and I promise you, your quality of life will improve.
Countless men and women have died fighting for freedom. We show our disrespect for their sacrifice every time we put someone else down for their choices. This is AMERICA the BEAUTIFUL. Let's work harder to keep it the land of the FREE and show our appreciation for those that died for the cause, shall we?
I'm going to share something with you all now that I was ashamed to see happen. When you click on the link, go to the section labeled History and read the last paragraph. Can you believe these folks wanted to do this?
Link to Wiki article.
I started writing Mystic ~ Bronya a good while back (I always have a number of works going at once) and slated it for release this month. I couldn't think of a better time considering the hate I'm seeing spewed all over the news about Chik-Fil-A and what was said. It saddens me. I have faith in humanity as a general collective but, once in a while, I'm let down. This was one of those times.
When you pick it up, be sure and read my author's note. It might give you a new way of seeing the world. I'll do the cover reveal later in the week.
Watch my Amazon author page for the release of Mystic~Bronya.
Well, that's all for today, folks! Until next time, WRITE ON!
Jo
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