tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-53865112708039992472024-03-05T15:40:24.282-05:00Wednesdays & FridaysJennifer C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12253564132754009574noreply@blogger.comBlogger60125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5386511270803999247.post-82761744902136647472009-04-07T23:24:00.006-04:002009-04-07T23:24:01.174-04:00Author Mark Jackman<div align="center"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">Author Mark Jackman</span></strong>
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<br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheCdhPtTbq_ch9IGsA5x_ZdMd-nN_ovNu5Ea2GEkeQvnG0Tce4PkMr7oZHMLMYoQAK3c_95f0YhlJ6PUA0-oywNEF-HuOazoO1-p7h-Usj9cXYi3znw27GGE5lOXS9PcPsN5pIVvBXQhE/s1600-h/Mark+Jackman"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319174145234742386" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheCdhPtTbq_ch9IGsA5x_ZdMd-nN_ovNu5Ea2GEkeQvnG0Tce4PkMr7oZHMLMYoQAK3c_95f0YhlJ6PUA0-oywNEF-HuOazoO1-p7h-Usj9cXYi3znw27GGE5lOXS9PcPsN5pIVvBXQhE/s320/Mark+Jackman" border="0" /></a>
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<br /><em>Tell us a little bit about you outside of being an author.</em>
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<br /></em>My name is Mark Jackman. I am about to turn twenty-nine, which is technically old to teenagers. I am a research scientist, by trade, and, in my relatively short career, I have stabbed a syringe full of drugs into my chest cavity, started a fire, and splashed concentrated acid on my face. If I don’t make it as an author, I may not reach thirty.
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<br />I was born in Great Yarmouth, a tacky seaside resort on the east coast of England. Currently, I live in Loughborough, which is just south of Robin Hood country. TALLY-HO! I love playing sport, going to the gym, and I am more than partial to a beer with the boys.
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<br /><em>What is your earliest writing memory?</em>
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<br />It was a painful experience. I had written all over the walls of the lounge and my mum walked in. It’s amazing I picked up a pen again. My mum has a great left hook.
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<br /><em>What feelings do you experience once you are satisfied with your completed manuscript(s)?</em>
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<br />I was ecstatic when I finished The Great Right Hope as I had finished writing an actual novel. Then I read it and realised that the editing process would take a long, long time. I struggle with the idea of “completing” a piece of work, and I could iteratively change a manuscript until the sun burned out. At the start, I found it really difficult to edit, and cut things out. When I started writing, it felt like I was typing sixty words an hour so to delete something that took days to write was heart-breaking. I soon got the hang of it (and of typing-thank God).
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<br /><em>Tell us a little bit about your work in progress and/or your upcoming release.</em>
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<br />LL-Publications recently released The Great Right Hope, my debut novel, as an e-book. The Great Right Hope is the tale of Sid Tillsley, a forty-six year old disability benefit-fraudster, from the north of England, and one thing sets him apart from his northern brethren. Yes, he's an overweight alcoholic, and he's also sexist, homophobic and a lazy git... but what makes him different is that he can kill vampires with a single punch.
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<br />Now, as you can imagine, killing a vampire with a big right hand is pretty amazing. After all, the undead are big, tough guys who can regenerate and stuff, and if anyone could kill them, the first time Dracula tried to break into a virgin’s bedroom, he would have been maced by the safety-conscious lady, tasered, arrested, sent to prison and turned into Big Dave’s bitch. So, when Sid kills a vampire, the whole vampire world is thrown into a state of shock.
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<br />In the north of England, another monster has arisen, and one who doesn't subscribe to 'Tits' magazine. A vampire beast is stalking the Yorkshire moors, mutilating and destroying everything in its path. The vampire elders realise that the Firmamentum has cast its shadow on the world once more. A phenomenon, which happens every few millennia, where a human and a vampire are born ultimately powerful and destined to oppose each other. If Sid doesn't face the vampire monster, it will jeopardise the relative peace between the species and full-blown war will be inevitable.
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<br />That's all well and good, but Sid just wants to get drunk down the pub with his mates, and, maybe, just maybe, end his two year drought with the ladies. Besides, Sid has more important things to worry about... the Social Security Disability Benefit Fraud investigators are on to him, and, if they see him fighting, they'll realise that he has been illegally claiming disability benefit for his bad back and dodgy heart.
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<br />I am half-way through the second book of The Sid Tillsley Chronicles (of three), and I am having a lot of fun with it.
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<br /><em>In your upcoming release or newly released book, how did you come up with the idea of your main character(s)?</em>
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<br />I love superheroes, but I didn’t want to write a traditional superhero tale. I decided that my hero would be a little flawed. Sid is most definitely a real person, who just happens to be able to kill the undead with a big right hand. A lot of stories place normal people in abnormal situations, and that is something I wanted to do, but I wanted to put a different spin on it. Sid Tillsley couldn’t give a damn about the abnormal, and he somehow manages to bring the abnormal down to his level, rather than rising to the occasion.
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<br />Everyone knows someone like Sid. A miserable old bugger who is stuck in their ways, and isn’t willing to change for anything or anyone. Not even for a two-thousand-year-old, super fast, super strong vampire immortal.
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<br />Even the best vampires need a good smack.
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<br /><em>I’m a big believer that word of mouth creates more sales than advertisements. Let’s say I’ve never read any of your books before, how would you pitch the idea of your latest release to me?</em>
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<br />Most people, outside the UK, don’t know that there is actually a big divide here, between The North and The South. With a massive sweep of my stereotyping brush, The South is more affluent, the people are well-spoken and when you think of the traditional English gent, you are most certainly thinking about The South. You’re thinking of Hugh Grant, aren’t you? Bumbling along and acting quite the klutz in his delightful charming way. STOP IT!
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<br />OK, I want you to add hundred pounds of flab to Hugh’s delicate torso. I want you to rub some cooking oil in his hair, and over his face. We need to break his nose, now, several times (that felt great!) and for the coup de grace, a healthy dose of alcoholism. Now, let’s give him a compass and send him north to his new home. The North is VERY different, but, The North is where the laughter is. In The North you will find the best pubs, the best beer, the most laughter and a beautiful down-to-earth manner that makes everything that more enjoyable. If you are not from the UK, then chances are you have not experienced this different English culture, and that is where The Great Right Hope comes in. The book thoroughly embraces everything about The North, and then adds some vampires for good measure. Why not?
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<br />Move over Hugh Grant, Sid Tillsley is coming through, and you’d better move fast because he had fifteen pints of beer and a curry, last night, and if he doesn’t make it to the gents’ toilets...
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<br /><em>I consider myself a tough critic when reviewing books. What do or would you do when you receive a mediocre or less than average rating from a reviewer or reader?</em>
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<br /></em>After I have no more tears to shed and the vomiting has passed, the depression really kicks in. Seriously though, I love constructive criticism. The Great Right Hope is my first novel, and it is going to take me a long time to hone my art, and become the master of the written word that I want to be. There are so many of them damn word things to learn. Dictionaries are bloody massive, you know? Feedback on how to improve what I do is very well received. If someone doesn’t like my comedy or my story, then that doesn’t bother me too much. Comedy is probably the most subjective genre there is, is never to everyone’s taste. That said, I think most people will have a chuckle at my work.
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<br /><em>What authors influence your writing dreams, goals and aspirations?</em>
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<br />Writing has the potential to be the greatest job in the world. A laptop is all that is needed, and on writing my first chapter I dreamt of a life where I could play a few holes of golf in the morning, stop off at the clubhouse for a couple of pints, write a chapter, if I felt like it, play a few more holes in the afternoon, in time for 5pm when I could meet my mates for a beer after work. Sailing round the Mediterranean with a laptop was another dream. It took me a while to realise that I would have to sell forty-five million books a week to fund my desired Playboy lifestyle. It’s one of life’s tragedies that Bunnygirls are expensive to keep. My feet are now planted firmly on the ground.
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<br />At the start, there was no-one in particular who I aspired to be, and, to be honest, there still isn’t. However, on joining various writer’s groups, I have seen a number of individuals who give a helping hand to us newbies, starting off on what, in my opinion, is the second hardest career path in the world (a prize to anyone who can guess the first). Guys like Brenna Lyons and Jolie du Pre who take time out from their busy schedules to offer advice, make a difference. Even a quick word from an experienced writer helps. Rick Reed dropped me a hello, and wished me luck. The guys on the Jeanie and Jayha Yahoo group are brilliant, and make me laugh every day. It all adds up to give a new guy confidence in “getting out there.” In the future, if I ever find myself in that sort of position, and I can do something similar to help, I’ll be a happy man.
<br />I read a lot of Terry Pratchett when I was growing up, and was so sad to hear that he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. It is such a cruel affliction for anyone, especially an author whose creative mind is their life, to suffer from. I am giving half the money I receive from e-book sales to charity. Half of which will go to the Alzheimer’s Trust and the other half will go to a baby hospice in Middlesbrough, the town where The Great Right Hope is set. To find out more about these charities follow this link: <a href="http://www.mark-jackman.com/MJ/charity.php">http://www.mark-jackman.com/MJ/charity.php</a>
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<br /><em>What books would you recommend on writing?</em>
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<br />Unfortunately, I can’t give an answer to that. Writing has snuck up on me. I had a story to tell, and, before I knew it, I had told it. The internet has been my biggest resource (surprise, surprise).
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<br /><em>If you could change one thing you did during your road to publication, what would it be and what would you have done different?</em>
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<br />I should have taken advantage of more groupies.
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<br /><em>What advice would you give an aspiring author?</em>
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<br />Write. Just write. It doesn’t matter if it is good or bad, you just need to write. When you start, it isn’t worth getting tied up with grammar, spellings, etc, as the important thing is to be creative and have fun. If you don’t enjoy that, then you are not a writer. Once you realise that you are, it is time to learn the art.
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<br /><em>Where can readers learn more about you and your books?</em>
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<br />That’s the first easy question that you have asked me. If you are interested in little old me, then my website is the best place to go: <a href="http://www.mark-jackman.com/MJ/MJ_main.php">http://www.mark-jackman.com/MJ/MJ_main.php</a> and if you want to hear me ramble on, then I guess my blog is the place to be <a href="http://mark-jackman.com/blog">http://mark-jackman.com/blog</a>. As for The Great Right Hope, it has its own website: <a href="http://www.mark-jackman.com/GRH/GRH_main.php">http://www.mark-jackman.com/GRH/GRH_main.php</a> From my website, you can drop me a mail and say hello. I’d love to hear from you! I am also a member of the world’s oldest, fattest, least-talented boyband. I started “Five Inches of Steel” in a bid to promote my book, but now it is just a good laugh! Check it out: <a href="http://www.mark-jackman.com/MJ/5inches.php">http://www.mark-jackman.com/MJ/5inches.php</a> New releases are monthly. Sorry.
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<br />I nearly forgot the most important thing! If you would like to buy The Great Right Hope, it is available from LL-Publications, direct: <a href="http://www.ll-publications.com/greatrighthope.html">http://www.ll-publications.com/greatrighthope.html</a> A big thanks to Jim and Zetta for putting up with me.
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<br /><em>Thank you Mark for taking the time to share with us. We wish you much success on your future endeavors. </em>
<br />Jennifer C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12253564132754009574noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5386511270803999247.post-48312236518294200602009-03-31T23:47:00.000-04:002009-03-31T23:47:00.896-04:00Author Patricia Dow<div align="center"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">Author Patricia Dow</span></strong></div><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTn1GjN9LH0Rtf5yHrIwPLpVKZZcUdsQclPRDDmiBR8hyphenhyphen6R9bYPnGQ8OpHpn4TjlOEHxkc_Wsd-mB12qwBdsy3QocHQAddAscBqz25aJf6w7KVuyAb5lcM1xHDGnoj934D4sb4U6D2O1g/s1600-h/patricia+dow.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314341866980555010" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 178px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 224px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTn1GjN9LH0Rtf5yHrIwPLpVKZZcUdsQclPRDDmiBR8hyphenhyphen6R9bYPnGQ8OpHpn4TjlOEHxkc_Wsd-mB12qwBdsy3QocHQAddAscBqz25aJf6w7KVuyAb5lcM1xHDGnoj934D4sb4U6D2O1g/s320/patricia+dow.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><em></em></div><br /><div><em></em></div><br /><div><em></em></div><br /><div><em>Tell us a little bit about you outside of being an author.</em></div><br /><div><br />I Love to have fun by the Waters, and write, and sit on a bench at the Park by the Waters, and look at the Skies, the Clouds, the Birds, and all Loves beauty that surrounds us on a daily basis.</div><br /><div><br /><em>What is your earliest writing memory?</em></div><br /><div><br />I remember when I was around sixteen I wrote poetry that was usually the negative side of life, like my man leaving me, feelings of being in bondage with un-natural sources of thought. I also found out that my negative issues of my style of poetry back then usually came true, so for a long time, I stopped writing....until positive thought and insight, guided my pen.</div><br /><div><br /><em>Describe your writing style.</em></div><br /><div><br />My writing styles, vary with my mood or surrounding thoughts, so I don't have the same writing style, but similar writing tones.</div><br /><div><br /><em>Tell us a little bit about your work in progress and/or your upcoming release.</em></div><br /><div><br />I have two works in progress right now, I am trying to get my children’s book series published, and I am also writing another book of my unique style of poetry.</div><br /><div><br /><em>Poetry can evoke deep emotions for the reader, as the poet, what emotions do you feel when you are creating a piece?</em></div><br /><div><br />I try to focus of Love all the time, unless I read something that invokes a serious thought for the empowerment of the people.</div><br /><div><br /><em>Give me one to four lines of a poem you wrote that will make us go hmmm.</em></div><br /><div><br />"Why do you write with such a fervent style?""For it is a gift of the Pen, that I hold before thy sight"</div><br /><div><br /><em>I’m a big believer that word of mouth creates more sales than advertisements. Let’s say we’re standing at a bus stop and I’ve never read any of your poetry before, how would approach me and persuade me to purchase your book?</em></div><br /><div><br />I would say to you to purchase, a book of mine, Do you really want to know the real insight to Life? Read this book I've written, it's really a "mind’s eye" opener. </div><br /><div><br /><em>I consider myself a tough critic when reviewing books. What would you do if you received a mediocre or less than average rating from a reviewer or reader?</em></div><br /><div><br />I would think the critic hasn't obtained to the height level of Love, that I've reached, or the critic is "book whipped" and Love anyway.</div><br /><div><br /><em>What poets/poems inspire you most?</em></div><br /><div><br />The correct Height, in Love Poems inspires me the most.</div><br /><div><br /><em>If you could change one thing you did during your road to publication, what would it be and what would you have done different?</em></div><br /><div><br />On my road through Publication, I think I would have spent more time researching more traditional publishers.</div><br /><div><br /><em>What advice would you give an aspiring poet regarding publishing?</em></div><br /><div><br />The advice I would give to other aspiring poets, always think your work is great, and it will be, and the Publishers will think this way too.</div><br /><div><br /><em>Where can readers learn more about you and your book(s)?</em></div><br /><div><br />Right now I am on <a href="http://www.blackplanet.com/" target="_blank">BlackPlanet.com</a>, but soon I will have a link on there to go to my own website.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Patricia, thank you fr taking time out to share with us. Many blessing in your future endeavors.</div>Jennifer C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12253564132754009574noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5386511270803999247.post-91140162991052538732009-03-25T23:45:00.002-04:002009-03-25T23:45:01.060-04:00Author Peter Ashley<div align="center"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">Author Peter Ashley</span></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;"></span></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;"></span></strong></div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHZdPfoGG-Pj1TYTu8lWDx1PQA6vaQIMdTTCK7V7m6zYf2GtSKBg5CrZ05lmni3AO990znDpaH9fhxE0EiUNCuCBuSdQdzE2K0CcIDx01UCXeeIaEAwoWAszbhNiF3S_et2x7Qa-zwT7k/s1600-h/peter+ashley.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314333087878621586" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHZdPfoGG-Pj1TYTu8lWDx1PQA6vaQIMdTTCK7V7m6zYf2GtSKBg5CrZ05lmni3AO990znDpaH9fhxE0EiUNCuCBuSdQdzE2K0CcIDx01UCXeeIaEAwoWAszbhNiF3S_et2x7Qa-zwT7k/s320/peter+ashley.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Tell us a little bit about you outside of being an author.<br /><br /><br /><em>Well, my name is Peter Ashley. I am thirty one years old. I live in Hampshire, England and I have worked since the age of seventeen as a Roofer. I come from a very working class background, my Father grew up in a poor side of the city, working at the docks of Southampton and my Mother is a country girl who comes from a farming family. I have two brothers, the oldest of whom is an officer in the royal navy.<br /></em><br /><br /><em>My siblings and I grew up on a small farm, riding my Mum’s horses and looking after our small army of chickens, ducks and goats – as well as chopping up endless piles of wood for our wood burning cooker that heated our old house.<br /></em><br /><br />What is your earliest writing memory?<br /><br /><br /><em>Ha ha, I think I got inspired to write by an old favorite cowboy film of mine, Shane. I loved the film so much I started to write sequels! I was pretty rubbish at school until my teachers decided to encourage my writing and even gave me a permanent spot on the school wall to show off my stories, then there was no stopping me really!</em><br /><br /><br />Describe your writing style.<br /><br /><br /><em>The most important thing to me as a writer is my characters. I love every one of them, good or evil. I try to make them alive as possible, everything, even the main story takes a backseat to them.</em><br /><br /><br /><em>However when I started to write properly, I had no understanding of how a book was set out, especially when it came to ‘points of view.’ So I used a novel by ‘Christopher Colden,’ to teach me about that! So if I have a particular style, it’s thanks to him!</em><br /><br /><br />What feelings do you experience once you are satisfied with your completed manuscript(s)?<br /><br /><br /><em>Actually I feel like I’ve done something wrong! Probably many things wrong. I am lucky (or unlucky) enough to really enjoy reading what I write. I must go into some trance because when I read my chapters back I can never remember writing the words and it really doesn't feel like I wrote them in the first place. But the point is I like it and can't usually see where I’ve gone wrong. This is why I’m actually looking forward to some critical reviews!</em><br /><br />Tell us a little bit about your work in progress and/or your upcoming release.<br /><br /><em>I am so lucky to get published at my first attempt at a novel. I like big stories, so I began to write my own series after all my favorite television shows ended. (I wanted to entertain myself I suppose) I thought up a story and characters that I would want to read about, if that makes sense? I think people who share my taste in movies and TV shows will like my books!<br /><br />The series is, so far, three books long. ‘A Human Reaction,’ is the first novel of the series and it is due out in the next month or so. I really hope to get the other books out there because I see my writing and the story getting better and more exciting as I go. (Not that the first one is by any means dull, lol)</em><br /><br />In your upcoming release or newly released book, how did you come up with the idea of your main character(s)?<br /><br /><em>That's my favourite question!<br /><br />My characters', in the way they look, are real people. I have what they look like in my head and just describe them. Sounds really easy doesn't it lol.</em><br /><br /><br /><em>As far as they're personalities go, that's where my imagination takes over. I can't think where I got their personalities from, perhaps they are part of my own character - how I imagine I would like to act in their shoes or maybe some could be inspired by heroes or villains I have encountered before in book or in films, but I honestly couldn't say where they definitely came from - except one, she is inspired from a character I have loved in a show, but I’m not going to tell you who it was!<br /></em><br />I’m a big believer that word of mouth creates more sales than advertisements. Let’s say we’re standing at a bus stop and I’ve never read any of your poetry before, how would approach me and persuade me to purchase your book?<br /><br /><em>I think the people who would buy my book are those who are into big stories, something to sink their teeth into. Those who are into character development and twisting plot lines. Readers who like their villains/heroes not to be just good or evil, but torn between the two. It has strong love stories, even between the ‘baddie’ characters. It deals with conscience, spiritual belief, personal ambition and personal freedoms through several very different perspectives.</em><br /><br />I consider myself a tough critic when reviewing books. What would you do if you received a mediocre or less than average rating from a reviewer or reader?<br /><br /><em>It’s funny, ever since I started writing my series I’ve been looking for criticism! I’m not university educated, I have never been to a writing class and I just don’t believe you can learn more about your work until someone who knows can tell you.<br /><br />Friends won’t say anything is wrong with it, nor my publisher but I am enjoying my editors’ corrections! So I say bring on your honest opinions – I can take stick – I’m a roofer!<br /></em><br />If you could change one thing you did during your road to publication, what would it be and what would you have done different?<br /><br /><em>I wish I had a better grasp of grammar for one! Before when I started to pitch my work, I didn’t even know what an indent was!<br /><br />I think I followed all the basic rules of submission. Although I’m now told I should have approached a literary agent before a publisher, but I’m quite lucky in the way my publisher can answer any kind of questions I have.<br /><br />I really didn’t flood agents or publishers with my work, I was of the attitude that if it happens it happens, I love writing and I have the rest of my life to get published. Saying that I’m both overjoyed and gob smacked that it did happen for me!<br /></em><br />What authors influence your writing dreams, goals and aspirations?<br /><br /><br /><em>I wouldn't say any author influences my writing dreams, unless I count myself! Of course I would like as many people to buy and read the book as possible, but my main motivation is to hear what my readers think of my stories. I want people to enjoy my work as much as I have enjoyed other peoples.</em><br /><br /><br />What books would you recommend on writing?<br /><br /><br /><em>The only one I read was so helpful and yes I would definitely recommend it, I was a complete novice, yet got published with its help. The book is, 'The craft of novel writing,' by Dianne Doubtfire. I really must thank her!</em><br /><br />What advice would you give an aspiring author?<br /><br /><em>I would make sure you send your work to the kind of publisher who deals with your style. Make sure it’s very presentable and reads easy. I think it might help if you have a market strategy, if you tell someone why and how it might sell.<br /><br />But above all, if I had been completely obsessed with getting published, I really would try to make a friend in the business, isn’t it all about who you know?? lol</em><br /><br /><br />Where can readers learn more about you and your book(s)?<br /><br /><em>The first novel of my series, called 'A Human Reaction,' is being published by L-L publications, you can find out when its scheduled for release on their website which is </em><a href="http://www.ll-publications.com/" target="_blank"><em>http://www.ll-publications.com</em></a><em> It will be available direct from the website catalogue, on </em><a href="http://www.amazon.com/" target="_blank"><em>amazon.com</em></a><em> and you can order it at most bookshops. I really hope you do, I’d love to know what you guys think!</em><br /><br /><br /><br />Peter, thank you for taking the time to share with us. Many blessings in your future endeavors.Jennifer C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12253564132754009574noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5386511270803999247.post-74272481966420685462009-03-19T23:20:00.000-04:002009-03-19T23:20:00.881-04:00Ready To Publish Friday - Punctuation<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.lakelandbonsai.com/images/LogoTree.gif"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 160px; height: 143px;" src="http://www.lakelandbonsai.com/images/LogoTree.gif" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal; font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" ><span style="font-size:100%;">Ready To Publish Friday presents you with another good article found on the net.</span></span><br /></h2><h2 style="text-align: center;"><br /></h2><h2 style="text-align: center;">The Finer Points of Punctuation</h2><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-style: italic;">by Kristy Taylor </span><br /></div><br /><br />Perhaps the best way to illustrate the importance and effect of proper punctuation is to imagine reading a piece of writing without it. Supposing you were to read this entire article – all 900 words of it – with absolutely no punctuation. Not just the obvious periods and commas, but no colons, dashes, exclamation marks or question marks.<br /><br />Punctuation hasn’t always been a part of writing. It evolved over time, as the printing process itself evolved. Prior to the development of printing, punctuation was almost non-existent and when William Caxton first printed books in English, he used three basic punctuation devices, mainly to indicate pauses and sentence endings.<br /><br />Throughout the 17th century, more punctuation was devised, the most recent being the quotation marks. Eventually we had punctuation as we know it today, consisting of at least a dozen different punctuation devices (depending on your definition) – although some people would have difficulty naming all of them.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Click <a href="http://articlesonwriting.com/punctuation/the_finer_points_of_punctuation.html">HERE</a> to read entire article</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5386511270803999247.post-44506063596221034392009-03-17T23:45:00.001-04:002009-03-17T23:45:00.177-04:00Author Marcia McNair<div align="center"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">Author Marcia McNair</span></strong></div><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAUiHasAvNwjSVi9Y-OQ0R_1irMFAhEBZqVoTA9a5iN-3wFC84Z-18e8lwWnSRaKElhzCWhADTzWr48JYlkZmgFfRXAWqM0TW_QqIHCFe5hfZsOKHJJVLvNG1bkh9cT42QM8PT2PQFfDg/s1600-h/emalesbookcover.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314321776371601554" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 238px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 360px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAUiHasAvNwjSVi9Y-OQ0R_1irMFAhEBZqVoTA9a5iN-3wFC84Z-18e8lwWnSRaKElhzCWhADTzWr48JYlkZmgFfRXAWqM0TW_QqIHCFe5hfZsOKHJJVLvNG1bkh9cT42QM8PT2PQFfDg/s320/emalesbookcover.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Tell us a little bit about you outside of being an author.<br /><br /><br />I AM A PROFESSOR OF ENGLISH AND JOURNALISM AT NASSAU COMMUNITY COLLEGE IN GARDEN CITY, LONG ISLAND. NCC IS THE SECOND LARGEST COMMUNITY COLLEGE IN THE COUNTRY. IN ADDITION TO TEACHING, I SERVE AS CO-COORDINATOR OF THE AFRICAN AMERICAN READ-IN AT NCC, WHICH IS A PART OF A NATIONAL PROGRAM THAT TAKES PLACE ON THE FIRST TUESDAY OF BLACK HISTORY MONTH. I ALSO SIT ON THE BLACK HISTORY MONTH COMMITTEE WITH IS RESPONSIBLE FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH PROGRAMMING EACH YEAR. I CO-ADVISE A STUDENT CLUB FOR AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMEN. I SERVE ON SEVERAL OTHER COMMITTEES AT THE COLLEGE, BUT THIS IS GETTING TOO LONG! IN TERMS OF COMMUNITY SERVICE, I AM THE VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR OF THE LONG ISLAND WRITERS PROJECT FOR THE AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM OF HEMPSTEAD. I AM ALSO A MEMBER OF THE BOARD OF THE UNIONDALE COMMUNITY CENTER. I AM THE SINGLE MOTHER OF TWO, AND I'VE LIVED ON LONG ISLAND FOR ABOUT 15 YEARS.<br /><br /><br />What is your earliest writing memory?<br /><br /><br />WHEN I WAS IN SECOND GRADE, I SELF-PUBLISHED A BOOK! IT WAS INSPIRED BY THE NURSEY RHYME "THREE BLIND MICE" AND DETAILED THEIR ADVENTURES. BECAUSE I WAS THE ONLY BLACK CHILD IN THE CLASS, MY TEACHER DID NOT SUPPORT MY CREATIVITY AND INITIATIVE, BUT MY MOTHER WAS QUITE PROUD OF MY LITTLE HANDMADE BOOK AND ALWAYS ENCOURAGED ME TO KEEP WRITING.<br /><br /><br />What feelings do you experience once you are satisfied with your completed manuscript(s)?<br /><br /><br />I AM EXCITED BECAUSE I AM FREE TO WORK ON THE NEXT BOOK!<br /><br /><br />In your upcoming release or newly released book, how did you come up with the idea of your main character(s)?<br /><br /><br />MY CHARACTERS EBONY AND WANITA ARE FICITIONALIZED VERSIONS OF ONE OF ME AND ONE OF MY CLOSEST FRIENDS. WE ARE WELL-EDUCATED SINGLE PROFESSIONAL AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMEN WHO ARE VERY PASSIONATE ABOUT A NUMBER OF TOPICS BESIDES MEN AND ROMANCE. I WANTED AMERICA TO GET A GLIMPSE OF WHAT WE AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMEN THINK AND SAY ABOUT A VARIETY OF IMPORTANT TOPICS WHEN WE THINK NO ONE IS LISTENING.<br /><br /><br />Tell us a little bit about your work in progress and/or your upcoming release.<br /><br /><br />CURRENTLY, I AM REVISING A PLAY I CO-AUTHORED CALLED DIARY OF A MAD BLACK FEMINIST WHICH SHOULD GO INTO PRODUCTION WITH SHADES OF JADES THREATER COMPANY EARLY NEXT YEAR. I PRODUCED AND STARRED IN THE PLAY PERSONALLY FOR ABOUT TWO YEARS, BUT I AM READY TO TAKE ON NEW PROJECTS, SO WHEN PRODUCER MIKE GREEN APPROACHED ME ABOUT THE PLAY, I WAS ECSTATIC. I CAN'T WAIT TO SEE WHAT A PROFESSIONAL THEATER COMPANY CAN DO WITH THE PLAY WHICH DEALS WITH CONTEMPORARY SOCIAL ISSUES FROM AN AFRICAN AMERICAN FEMALE PERSPECTIVE. I EVEN TOOK AN EXCERPT FROM MY NOVEL EMALES AND USED IT IN THE PLAY.<br /><br /><br />I’m a big believer that word of mouth creates more sales than advertisements. Let’s say I’ve never read any of your books before, how would you pitch the idea of your latest release to me?<br /><br /><br />WHY IS IT SO TEMPTING TO READ SOMEONE ELSE'S EMAIL? MY NOVEL IS A CHANCE TO YIELD TO THE TEMPTATION WITHOUT GUILT! EMALES IS AN INTIMATE GLIMPSE INTO WHAT AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMEN THINK AND SAY WHEN THEY THINK NO ONE ELSE IS AROUND.<br /><br /><br />I consider myself a tough critic when reviewing books. What do or would you do when you receive a mediocre or less than average rating from a reviewer or reader?<br /><br /><br />REVISE! AS AN ENGLISH PROFESSOR, I'D BETTER LEARN TO TAKE IT AS WELL AS I GIVE IT. I CONSTANTLY MODEL THE CORRECT BEHAVIOR TO STUDENTS. I SEE CRITICISM AS AN OPPORTUNITY TO MAKE MY WORK BETTER!<br /><br /><br />What authors influence your writing dreams, goals and aspirations?<br /><br /><br />MAYA ANGELOU--BECAUSE OF HER CLEAR, STRAIGHTFORWARD WRITING STYLE. DESPITE MY EDUCATION, I NEVER HAVE BEEN A FAN OF "BIG WORDS". ANGELOU'S WRITING SHOWED ME THERE'S A QUIET POWER IN THE SIMPLEST WORD.ISHMAEL REED (MUMBO JUMBO)--BECAUSE HE INTRODUCED ME TO BLACK SATIRE, WHICH IS STILL LARGELY UNEXPLORED TERRITORY FOR AFRICAN AMERICAN WRITERS. YES, WE HAVE MORE BLACK SATIRE AND PARODY, BUT THE PUBLIC IS SIMPLY NOT AS AWARE OF IT. REED ENCOURAGED ME TO USE MY SENSE OF HUMOR TO MY ADVANTAGE.<br /><br /><br />What books would you recommend on writing?<br /><br /><br />BELIEVE IT OR NOT, I WOULDN'T! AS A PROFESSOR, I AM STILL SEARCHING FOR THE PERFECT WRITING TEXTBOOK. I MOSTLY USE MY OWN ORIGINAL MATERIAL. I'D RECOMMEND THAT WRITERS WHO WANT TO GET BETTER AT THEIR CRAFT WRITE AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE AND TAKE A GRAMMAR CLASS!<br /><br /><br /><br />If you could change one thing you did during your road to publication, what would it be and what would you have done different?<br /><br /><br />I WOULD HAVE PROOFREAD MY PDF FILE MORE CAREFULLY BEFORE PUBLICATION. BECAUSE I DIDN'T, HAVING ENTRUSTED THIS TASK TO ANOTHER PERSON WHOM I PAID, I HAD TO REPRINT A CORRECTED VERSION.<br /><br /><br />What advice would you give an aspiring author?<br /><br /><br />READ THE CLASSIC WORKS OF LITERATURE AND TAKE AS MANY WRITING CLASSES AS POSSIBLE. POLISH YOUR CRAFT! TOO MANY OF US WANT TO TAKE THE EASY WAY OUT AND JUST WRITE A BOOK AND PUBLISH IT WITHOUT PUTTING INTHE TIME AND EFFORT IT TAKES TO BE AN EXCELLENT WRITER. BUT WITH THAT SAID, I'D SAY DON'T BE SO CRITICAL OF YOURSELF THAT IT DESTROYS YOUR CONFIDENCE. YOU CAN ALWAYS HIRE A COPYEDITOR, BUT YOU'VE GOT TO HAVE SOMETHING ON PAPER FOR THE PERSON TO EDIT! JUST WRITE YOUR BOOK. THE REST WILL FOLLOW.<br /><br /><br />Where can readers learn more about you and your books?<br /><br /><br />READERS CAN GO TO MY WEBSITE <a href="http://www.emalesonline.com/" target="_blank">http://www.emalesonline.com/</a> TO PURCHASE A COPY OF MY BOOK. IF THEY WANT TO PITCH AN IDEA FOR A BOOK, THEY CAN FIND THE SUBMISSION GUIDELINES FOR MY COMPANY AYA PRESS AT <a href="http://www.ayapressbooks.com/" target="_blank">http://www.ayapressbooks.com/</a><br /><br /><br />Thank you Marcia for taking the time to share with us. Many blessing in your future endeavors.Jennifer C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12253564132754009574noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5386511270803999247.post-63449608877356000352009-03-12T23:08:00.001-04:002009-03-12T23:08:00.640-04:00Ready To Publish Friday - Editing<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.lakelandbonsai.com/images/LogoTree.gif"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 160px; height: 143px;" src="http://www.lakelandbonsai.com/images/LogoTree.gif" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Ready To Publish Friday is bringing you another helpful article found on the net. Hope you enjoy!</span><br /></div><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br />Editing Made Easy</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">by Lee Masterson</span><br /></div><br />So you've finally done it. You've finished your prized manuscript - the one you've spent months creating - and the temptation to pop it into a postal package and ship it off to a welcoming editor is tugging at you mercilessly.<br /><br />I urge you to resist that temptation. For now, anyway.<br /><br />After spending so much of your time and effort in producing what you have so far, it would seem a shame to rush things at this crucial stage in your manuscript's life. Once the first draft is done, almost every writer realizes that an edit or partial rewrite is going to be a necessary task.<br /><br />There are almost as many different ways to edit and rewrite as there are writers. Some prefer to edit as they go. There are those who prefer to chop and change storylines midway through the creation process. Others seem to race through the first draft and spend time polishing it up once they're done. I'm one of the latter.<br /><br />It makes no difference which technique you prefer, as long as it works for you. The point is to end up with a professional manuscript which an editor will hopefully buy.<br /><br />So let's take a look at 12 polishing techniques that could mean the difference between a sale and a rejection.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=5386511270803999247&postID=6344960887735600035#" id="show-labels-link" onclick="BLOG_showLabels(); return false">Show all</a><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Click <a href="http://www.fictionfactor.com/articles/editing.html">HERE</a> for entire article</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5386511270803999247.post-24947328031800163182009-03-11T01:16:00.005-04:002009-03-11T01:36:33.044-04:00Author Jon Bradbury<div align="center"><span style="font-size:180%;"><strong>Author Jon Bradbury</strong> </span></div><span style="font-size:180%;"></span><br /><br /><br /><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF67g6Xl9llnlngYPSAeIdoyAIzLoMEWyyq8W-LAcpBuRtR5FtxKky0CF8UhKdK-QbDb3OxBRwlwJDsn0OrRwKyvv-dqn0C3MHcwr6cuL_BdDFMG9PZV1dLYDj418usCH43wT1lPeSmNc/s1600-h/MIDNIGHTBLUE.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311799280160002978" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 208px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF67g6Xl9llnlngYPSAeIdoyAIzLoMEWyyq8W-LAcpBuRtR5FtxKky0CF8UhKdK-QbDb3OxBRwlwJDsn0OrRwKyvv-dqn0C3MHcwr6cuL_BdDFMG9PZV1dLYDj418usCH43wT1lPeSmNc/s320/MIDNIGHTBLUE.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUbbPp0aUWf12FuFGigWtJypOF4lTcA7rLcvwGVC0s2QmnbY1erhzZzD50Z86L3k5wWnCUn12B8zsvv784Kt74u14ClPw5shbfXV1pU8l4Wb-mfASkkVkpSExe0blef83U_-WdMXDtCHE/s1600-h/jonb.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311799155910653618" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUbbPp0aUWf12FuFGigWtJypOF4lTcA7rLcvwGVC0s2QmnbY1erhzZzD50Z86L3k5wWnCUn12B8zsvv784Kt74u14ClPw5shbfXV1pU8l4Wb-mfASkkVkpSExe0blef83U_-WdMXDtCHE/s320/jonb.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><em>Tell us a little bit about you outside of being an author.</em><br /><br />Well, I love to read -- books, magazines, online blogs, everything. I love listening to music, esp 80's rock, R&B, some hip-hop. I also have a large DVD collection, and go see a movie in the theater as often as I can, but not nearly often enough. My favorite TV shows right now are Dancing With The Stars and So You Think You Can Dance.<br /><br /><em>What is your earliest writing memory?</em><br /><br />Thinking that maybe writing is something I should pursue, after my high school english teacher told me my writing was really good.<br /><br /><em>What feelings do you experience once you are satisfied with your completed manuscript(s)?</em><br /><br />Wow, that is a great question. On the one hand, I'm glad to finally finish the thing. But at the same time, I know that's not the end. It's actually the beginning of something bigger. Then I take a short vacation from writing, before I dive into the next one LOL.<br /><br /><em>In your upcoming release or newly released book, how did you come up with the idea of your main character(s)?</em><br /><br />Well, the idea just came to me one day, for a cop that saves the life of a big-wig. I started the story at that scene, and the story just grew from there. I don't really remember one thing causing me to think of the idea. It just popped out of my head one day. *smile*<br /><br /><em>Tell us a little bit about your work in progress and/or your upcoming release.</em><br /><br />Well it's about a police officer who, as the story starts out, loves his life, his job, his friends, he even has a girlfriend. But then he saves the life of a prominent local business man who's doing a speech announcing his run for public office. Now the cop finds himself facing a lot of temptations -- like money, and the politician's wife, who is a gorgeous soap opera actress. So the whole story is about this one guy sticking to his morals and coming out the other side. It's also a detective story, as they try to figure out who's trying to get this business man killed.<br /><br /><em>I’m a big believer that word of mouth creates more sales than advertisements. Let’s say I’ve never read any of your books before, how would you pitch the idea of your latest release to me?</em><br /><br />It's about a business man, his wife, and the cop who saves his life.<br /><br /><em>I consider myself a tough critic when reviewing books. What do or would you do when if received a mediocre or less than average rating from a reviewer or reader?</em><br /><br />Well, in the past, with a website like Fallen Angel Reviews, I asked for another review. *smile*<br /><br /><em>What authors influence your writing dreams, goals, and aspirations?</em><br /><br />Tom Clancy, Eric Jerome Dickey, Elmore Leonard, Ben Bova, Isaac Asimov, Terry McMillian, Micheal Crichton<br /><br /><em>What books would you recommend on writing?</em><br /><br />"How To Write For Comics" by Peter David. Yeah, I know its for comic books. But it has many lessons to glean.<br /><br /><em>If you could change one thing you did during your road to publication, what would it be and what would you have done different?</em><br />Knowing what I know now, I would have gone to a different<br /><br />publisher, for the reason that the niche I write in, and the style I write in, is more compatible with some publishers than others.<br /><br /><em>What advice would you give an aspiring author?</em><br /><br />One, to practice every day, even if it's just a sentence or two, or even just a few words. And two, read as much as you can from as many different sources as possible.<br /><br /><em>Where can readers learn more about you and your books?</em><br /><br /><a href="http://www.extasybooks.com/">www.extasybooks.com</a><br /><a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/group/interracialeroticromance">http://groups.yahoo.com/group/interracialeroticromance</a> </p><p>Thanks Jon for taking the time to share with us. We wish you continued success.<br /></p>Jennifer C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12253564132754009574noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5386511270803999247.post-61317681520630542142009-03-04T00:11:00.004-05:002009-03-11T01:15:55.186-04:00Author Gigi Gunn<div style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; TEXT-ALIGN: center"><span style="font-size:180%;">Author Gigi Gunn
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<br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s121.photobucket.com/albums/o219/jcoissiere/?action=view&current=gigi.png" target="_blank"><img style="WIDTH: 394px; HEIGHT: 568px" alt="Photobucket" src="http://i121.photobucket.com/albums/o219/jcoissiere/gigi.png" border="0" /></a> <meta content="text/html; charset=utf-8" equiv="Content-Type"><meta content="Word.Document" name="ProgId"><meta content="Microsoft Word 12" name="Generator"><meta content="Microsoft Word 12" name="Originator"><link href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CJNC%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtmlclip1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml" rel="File-List"><link href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CJNC%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtmlclip1%5C01%5Cclip_themedata.thmx" rel="themeData"><link href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CJNC%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtmlclip1%5C01%5Cclip_colorschememapping.xml" rel="colorSchemeMapping"></div><style> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:"Cambria Math"; panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:roman; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:-1610611985 1107304683 0 0 159 0;} @font-face {font-family:"Lucida Calligraphy"; panose-1:3 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:script; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-unhide:no; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} .MsoChpDefault {mso-style-type:export-only; mso-default-props:yes; font-size:10.0pt; mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.0in 1.0in 1.0in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style>
<br /><p class="MsoNormal" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><span style="font-family:';font-size:14;">“There are few things more satisfying <span style="font-size:+0;"></span></span><span style="font-family:';font-size:20;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><span style="font-family:';font-size:20;"></span><span style="font-family:';font-size:14;">than a well-told tale”<?xml:namespace prefix = o /><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<br /><meta content="text/html; charset=utf-8" equiv="Content-Type"><meta content="Word.Document" name="ProgId"><meta content="Microsoft Word 12" name="Generator"><meta content="Microsoft Word 12" name="Originator"><link href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CJNC%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtmlclip1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml" rel="File-List"><link href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CJNC%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtmlclip1%5C01%5Cclip_themedata.thmx" rel="themeData"><link href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CJNC%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtmlclip1%5C01%5Cclip_colorschememapping.xml" rel="colorSchemeMapping"><style> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:"Cambria Math"; panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:roman; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:-1610611985 1107304683 0 0 159 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-unhide:no; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} p.MsoNoSpacing, li.MsoNoSpacing, div.MsoNoSpacing {mso-style-priority:1; mso-style-unhide:no; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} .MsoChpDefault {mso-style-type:export-only; mso-default-props:yes; font-size:10.0pt; mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.0in 1.0in 1.0in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style>
<br /><p class="MsoNoSpacing">….and that is a responsibility that GiGi Gunn takes seriously. She enjoys weaving a richly textured tapestry of believable, complex but flawed characters in familiar and unusual situations. Crafting characters and events which evoke a myriad of emotions; happy, sadness, shock, confusion, disappointment, regret, empathy and most of all, love—of self, family and friends, community and world, is an undertaking she relishes.<span style="font-size:+0;"> </span>Whether writing under a pseudonym, the veteran novelist’s fiction has enjoyed critical acclaim and been required reading at the high school and college levels, or penning anew, the caliber of the novel remains consistently engaging.<span style="font-size:+0;"> </span>From the first page to the very last with plots twists and surprises sprinkled in for spice, the author, seeks to captivate, challenge, inspire, provoke thought and expand the world views of the people who populate her narratives. She savors women who defy the odds and are not defined by others but pursue their own paths even when they are unsure of the outcome. If the author can entertain, educate and touch the humanity in us all, demonstrating that, despite race and class, we are more similar than we are different -- all the better.</p><p class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">To read the rest of this wonderful bio visit Gigi Gunn's site<a href="http://www.gigigunn.net/"> here.</a></span>
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<br /><span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">Tell us a little bit about you outside of being an author.</span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt"><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;"><span style="font-size:+0;"></span>I am native Washingtonian, born and bred, a daughter, sister, wife, mother, product of the DC Public School system and graduate of Howard University. I established a career in social work and directed educational programs, focusing on the adolescent and young adult. I love lunching with friends, gardening, traveling, music and movies . . . good movies and look forward to mentoring high school students this fall.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt"><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;"><span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">What is your earliest writing memory?</span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt"><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;">Besides “scribble-scratching” my autograph at a young age? ;-) <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt"><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;">The Pink Castle” was an answer to a Freshman English writing assignment at Howard U, where I described my “dream home” on Colorado Avenue across the street from the famed Carter Baron where we spent our leisure time seeing artists, like Johnny Mathis or later the Temptations, and learning how to drive. Professor Hermance read from my paper noting my writing skills; word usage, visualization, sentence structure, imagery, metaphors and similes’. Prior to those “embarrassing” compliments, I had never thought about writing as either an art form or a career option. Just goes to show you how well-placed praise can open up another entire world of possibility for a young person. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt"><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;"><span style="font-size:+0;"></span>
<br /><span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">What feelings do you experience once you are satisfied with your completed manuscript(s)?</span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt"><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;">Ecstasy!<span style="font-size:+0;"> </span>Sheer, unadulterated bliss followed by anxiousness at wanting to see it in print—immediately, and having readers enjoy it. It’s like birthin’ a baby! I celebrate with a pint of Amazon Valley Reserve Ice Cream and bask in the glow of accomplishment and relief.<span style="font-size:+0;"> </span>Until the next all-consuming project . . . until characters from the other manuscript(s) jockey for your attention. <span style="font-size:+0;"></span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt"><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;"><span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">In your upcoming release or newly released book, how did you come up with the idea of your main character(s)?</span>
<br /><span style="font-size:+0;"></span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt"><b><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;">CAJUN MOON</span></b><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;"> was inspired by the Randy Crawford song of the same name.<span style="font-size:+0;"> </span>“You took my baby, now you’re gone. Cajun moon.”<span style="font-size:+0;"> </span>I love that song. Inquisitiveness caused me to wonder, “How does a moon take your lover?<span style="font-size:+0;"> </span>What did the Cajun moon shine on?” Nosiness is what whet my appetite and spun my literary wheels. So there had to be a heroine, Sassy Crillon, who came upon what the Cajun moon was shining on. . . Roux Robespierre, her fiancé--and what was he doing?<span style="font-size:+0;"> </span>I was hooked.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt"><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;"><o:p>
<br /></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt"><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;"><span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">Tell us a little bit about your work in progress and/or your upcoming release.</span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt"><b><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;">RAINBOW’S END</span></b><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;"> will be released this December ’08 and it is totally different from <b>CAJUN MOON</b>.<span style="font-size:+0;"> </span>For me to engage the reader, I have to be engaged first. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt"><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;">In this materialistic world, Pop Diva Dylan Pryce is richer than “monies mammy” and can buy anything her heart desires. She has it all but an “authentic” man to share it with her. A man who can love her. . . plain old Dylan Renee Pryce from Hampton, Virginia. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt"><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;">On a self-imposed hiatus she meets Caleb Walker, who owns the Walker Horse and Cattle Ranch in Socrates, Texas. With female companionship on an “as needed” basis, he is content with his life until Dylan comes to town and turns his life upside down. But Brenda Faye Savoy intends to be Caleb’s wife and the more she tries to drive a wedge between Caleb and Dylan, the closer they become. Unknowingly, Rueben Jenkins, Dylan’s manager, is complicit in Brenda Faye’s scheme to win Caleb’s heart. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt"><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;">Although the singer and the cowboy come from two different worlds, can’t they be after the same Rainbow’s End?<span style="font-size:+0;"> </span>Will they get the chance to play it out and see if their life together is meant to be or will their love fall victim to mettlesome manipulators? <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt"><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;"><span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">I’m a big believer that word of mouth creates more sales than advertisements. Let’s say I’ve never read any of your books before, how would you pitch the idea of your latest release to me?</span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt"><b><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;">CAJUN MOON</span></b><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;"> is about choice and second chances.<span style="font-size:+0;"> </span>The novel opens with a quote, “At any given moment, your life is the sum total of all your choices.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt"><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;">Sassy Crillon catches her longtime fiancé, Roux, in a compromising situation.<span style="font-size:+0;"> </span>She chooses to react by taking the “high road,” cuts him loose and embarks on her road of self-discovery and possibility. The last thing she wants or needs is another man, but into her life comes a wonderful man named Aidan, who seduces her with his caring ways and tenderness, freeing her to chance loving again. But Aidan has a secret, and a redemptive Roux wants Sassy back. Which man is best for her? Choice. Who she chooses says a lot about her . . . “tell me who you love and I’ll tell you who you are. . .” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt"><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;"><span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">I consider myself a tough critic when reviewing books. What do or would you do when you receive a mediocre or less than average rating from a reviewer or reader?</span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt"><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;">Wow! Excellent question. I would consider the source and if there is viable, meaningful and/or helpful criticism, consider it and move on.<span style="font-size:+0;"> </span>I savor all the five star, positive reviews I receive and apply the same reaction--read them, smile, and move on, satisfied that I’ve pleased readers. But there is nothing, good or bad, you can do about an already published book except learn from comment and move on. I feel if you read and believe the good critics, then you are obliged to do the same for the “less than average,” so I’d try to keep them both in perspective.<span style="font-size:+0;"> </span>I try to stay on point, true to my storytelling and intended audience, and find solace in the fact that everyone is different and entitled to their opinion regarding any written piece. <span style="font-size:+0;"></span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt"><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;"><span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">What authors influence your writing dreams, goals and aspirations?</span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt"><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;">I liked the writing styles of early Maya Angelou, and Gloria Naylor, the way she took the classics and reworked them to be relevant to our experiences: <b>Bailey’s Café</b>, Chaucer’s <b>Canterbury Tales</b>.<span style="font-size:+0;"> </span><b>Linden Hills, </b>Dante’s <b>Inferno</b> etc. I liked James Michener, the way he took his time unfolding a story and his use of words.<span style="font-size:+0;"> </span>Often I can read and re-read an author’s passage if it’s beautifully written . . . so it can take me awhile to finish a really well-written book!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt"><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;">Dreams, goals and aspirations? Like Michener or Mosley, I’d love to see my novels grace the silver screen. “Based on a novel by GiGi Gunn!” ;-)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt"><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;">Or direct like Kasi Lemmons did “Eve’s Bayou,” one of my favorites.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt"><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;"><span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">What books would you recommend on writing?</span>
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt"><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;"></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt"><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;">While many authors probably suggest reference or instructional books, I recommend <u>any </u>books that will expand your world view. Books that are outside of your orbit of familiarity. Books that stretch and expose you to things beyond your comfort zone, that challenge your point of reference. I came up in an era when we diagramed sentences and underlined words we didn’t know and looked them up in the dictionary later.<span style="font-size:+0;"> </span>That’s how we improved our vocabulary even if we were mispronouncing them. <span style="font-size:+0;"></span>You can master the musical scale but that doesn’t make you a good musician anymore than knowing all the colors of the spectrum will make you a great artist. There’s the <i>feeling</i> and aptitude-for, improvising and creation that can’t be found in a book. You learn by doing and the more you do it, the more comfortable you become and the better you get. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt"><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;"><span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">If you could change one thing you did during your road to publication, what would it be and what would you have done different?</span>
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt"><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;"></span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt"><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;">Start earlier. I was too busy living life with no designs on writing beyond letters and a monthly magazine column. Writing a novel was a daunting “back burner” activity.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt"><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;">But then, once I decided that I wanted to write a novel, I would have made more of a commitment to it earlier. My career positions had a large degree of responsibility, supervising others, mind-numbing meetings and no time to write while working or after work, which usually included work-related nocturnal duties, as well as wifely and motherhood obligations. I would have taken my craft more seriously and set aside time to consistently and diligently work on it and not taken a number of years’ hiatus in the middle. I so admire my writing colleagues whose novels are in the double digit count. What a stunning accomplishment! <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt"><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;">Like anything worthwhile, if you intend to pursue it—commit to it—respect it. Do it!<i><o:p></o:p></i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt"><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;"><span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">What advice would you give an aspiring author?</span>
<br /><span style="font-size:+0;"></span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt"><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;">To write.<span style="font-size:+0;"> </span>To commit to writing.<span style="font-size:+0;"> </span>To commit to learning the craft then expanding your outlook. If you don’t sit down and write, then there is nothing to submit, or re-write or publish.<span style="font-size:+0;"> </span>You have to do the work.<span style="font-size:+0;"> </span>There will be missed phone calls, dinners out, dates and parties, but that’s part and parcel of the commitment. You choose what’s important to you. You choose where you want to spend your time and energy.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt"><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;"><span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">Where can readers learn more about you and your books?</span> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:'Courier New';font-size:10;">I invite readers to visit me at <a href="http://www.gigigunn.net/"><span style="color:windowtext;">www.gigigunn.net</span></a> and my novels are available at amazon.com, Borders or any of your favorite bookstores.<span style="font-size:+0;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p>
<br /></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p>Thank you for sharing with us Gigi. We wish you much success in your future endeavors.
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<br />Jennifer C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12253564132754009574noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5386511270803999247.post-33143571920385984262009-02-24T23:23:00.003-05:002009-02-24T23:39:16.640-05:00Author Push Nevahda<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Author Push Nevahda</span></span><br /></div><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8d1-vuqOrcWrhwMJkkgiJ7cz20rWXf5TmNZmeuMrj8DPlqNseMGv72N4jxVfCLhCiyu3NT3DlkOw-xq4GyG4n-v4zenYl1JRYvK21vARmL51QsKcvkrAzEEQ4BiTi-jAs8yyr4m1EpAQ/s1600-h/Push+Nevahda.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 256px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8d1-vuqOrcWrhwMJkkgiJ7cz20rWXf5TmNZmeuMrj8DPlqNseMGv72N4jxVfCLhCiyu3NT3DlkOw-xq4GyG4n-v4zenYl1JRYvK21vARmL51QsKcvkrAzEEQ4BiTi-jAs8yyr4m1EpAQ/s320/Push+Nevahda.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5306588810710890802" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi12AR0O3Q6VcZO33b2WcDgcnPwvhYtEYFZvUJ9e96cjMp0FB_29xFDeh3phc1WP7pgOv9EVVX3rutvskpZHgueeh_lx8zV2R3CZXNLCIOmSOjy60PKSz6RsAaorwgTaGQsLzzVIcsxPp4/s1600-h/dragimage.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 212px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi12AR0O3Q6VcZO33b2WcDgcnPwvhYtEYFZvUJ9e96cjMp0FB_29xFDeh3phc1WP7pgOv9EVVX3rutvskpZHgueeh_lx8zV2R3CZXNLCIOmSOjy60PKSz6RsAaorwgTaGQsLzzVIcsxPp4/s320/dragimage.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5306588652653203762" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />Tell us a little bit about you outside of being an author.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">I’m a wandering spirit, looking for adventure, in search of the true meaning of life.</span><br /><br />What is your earliest writing memory?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">I used to write poetry as a child then I got into songwriting, then got to high school and started writing plays. But my earliest memory of writing is when I was about 10 or 11, and I would write poetry about my father who had died when I was seven. My first serious poem was about a childhood sweetheart (she is also characterized in my book).</span><br /><br />What feelings do you experience once you are satisfied with your completed manuscript(s)?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">I’m very proud and elated when I finally complete a manuscript. It’s time to go to the club and get my funky on! Really.</span><br /><br />In your upcoming release or newly released book, how did you come up with the idea of your main character(s)?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">All of the characters are based on real-life people. You can go to my website – <a href="http://www.pushnevahda.com">www.pushnevahda.com</a> – and meet them!</span><br /><br />Tell us a little bit about your work in progress and/or your upcoming release.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">I am currently working on two books. A Tunica Sunset is situated in between WW I and WW II and is about a black sharecroppers struggle with a decision of whether or not to bring his family to the north (where the booming war industries offer black migrants good economic opportunities), or stay in the south where he feels secure in the only way of life he has ever known. So, the story is about faith and belief in oneself. The Rise and Fall of Black Bottom is a story about a little known African American community in Detroit the flourished during WW II. Eventually it was destroyed to make way for the I-75 freeway.</span><br /><br />I’m a big believer that word of mouth creates more sales than advertisements. Let’s say I’ve never read any of your books before, how would you pitch the idea of your latest release to me?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">My website!</span><br /><br />I consider myself a tough critic when reviewing books. What do or would you do when you receive a mediocre or less than average rating from a reviewer or reader?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Hope that the reviewer or reader is a serious and constructive critic, rather than someone who really has no understanding or real appreciation for the art of writing. With my book, I’ve received criticism from people from all walks of life, including professors (one has considered using my book as a supplemental reading in an English writing course she teaches), housewives, young folk, and men. Particularly white folks, who are rarely interested in black books, are reading mine. One white guy told me that, although he never before considered reading anything by black authors, purchased my book and thought it to be one of the best books he’d read. He appreciated being able to read perspectives on life, love, political, society, and culture from a black male point-of-view. And I appreciated that kind of honest feedback. One white woman told me that my book inspired her to return to college; another told me she was inspired to pursue her passion to write a novel.</span><br /><br />What authors influence your writing dreams, goals and aspirations?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The works of James Baldwin (The Fire Next Time), Cornel West (“Black Strivings in A Twilight Civilization”), Arthur Miller (“Death of A Salesman”) and Lorraine Hansberry (Raisin in A Sun) were most influential to me, and changed the course of my life as a writer. Samuel Beckett’s Waiting For Godot in addition to Dubois’s Soul’s of Black Folks, were seminal readings that shaped and informed the moral, philosophic, and spiritual direction of my writing. Also, Truman Capote’s work is very influential to my own work. Mailer is correct in noting that Capote writes the most beautifully crafted sentences, he is the master (and self-proclaimed inventor) of creative non-fiction. Robert Goolrick’s book, The End of the World as We Know It, is perhaps the most beautifully written memoir I’ve ever read, and is the most important book I own. Also, Nina Simone’s biography influenced me a great deal, and I liked Jeffrey Meyer’s work up until I read his book, Married to Genius.</span><br /><br />What books would you recommend on writing?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Well, that’s a tough question because of the various dimensions of writing (i.e. creative, technical, academic, fiction, etc.), but I think that the best way to learn about writing is to read.</span><br /><br />If you could change one thing you did during your road to publication, what would it be and what would you have done different?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">I would’ve sought more critical advice from proofreaders and editors. But, at the same time, it’s also important not to let people change or obstruct the artistic direction of your work. Not everyone – especially editors – will understand the artistic expression, and sometimes they can ruin it.</span><br /><br />What advice would you give an aspiring author?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Read, read, read.</span><br /><br />Where can readers learn more about you and your books?<br /><br /><a href="http://www.pushnevahda.com"><span style="font-weight: bold;">www.pushnevahda.com</span></a>Jennifer C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12253564132754009574noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5386511270803999247.post-80461732029867210182009-02-17T23:30:00.001-05:002009-02-17T23:30:00.513-05:00Author Carrie J. Keaton<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Author Carrie J. Keaton</span></span>
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmcdXZXBWU4rElPs9E5ijGJH69FGn99ijWkw3UDD2ya3E_kQKxLKbGx7UAPqDTz6hZFHFY0wbun2S5_pCZGea207nzHi9K8Vr0-p3DzsaTcL-6QyVrLG484G4GlavdOamm1CE7Q2edcy0/s1600-h/Carrie+J.+Keaton.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 260px; height: 344px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmcdXZXBWU4rElPs9E5ijGJH69FGn99ijWkw3UDD2ya3E_kQKxLKbGx7UAPqDTz6hZFHFY0wbun2S5_pCZGea207nzHi9K8Vr0-p3DzsaTcL-6QyVrLG484G4GlavdOamm1CE7Q2edcy0/s320/Carrie+J.+Keaton.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301386043893723426" border="0" /></a>
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mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tell us a little bit about you outside of being an author</span>.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I’m enjoying motherhood at my late age --- my husband and I have a new baby.<span style=""> </span>So I enjoy my family time, watching movies on the lifetime movie channel and crime shows, and relaxing and reading a good book.<span style=""> </span>I also manage two online groups that are called the African-American Authors & Writers group.<span style=""> </span>One group is on Blackplanet.com and the other is a newly created group that I just starting on Yahoo groups.<span style=""> </span>I am hoping to grow the group that is on Yahoo to surpass the one that I have on Blackplanet.com (currently has over 200 members and growing).<span style=""> </span>I’m trying to make a place that has a creative atmosphere for writers, aspiring and published authors and enthusiastic readers; a place where its’ members can feel free to discuss and share their ideas about books, writing (books, articles & poetry), book marketing and promotion, and any literary topics of their choice.<span style=""> </span>I wanted to create a place where like-minded people can meet and participate in forum discussions about any literary topic.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" >
<br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:";" >What is your earliest writing memory?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I realized that I wanted to be a writer when I was in grade school.<span style=""> </span>I used to write short stories and let my classmates read them.<span style=""> </span>I simply just enjoyed creating stories.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p style="font-weight: bold;" class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" >
<br /></span><span style=";font-family:";" >What feelings do you experience once you are satisfied with your completed manuscript(s)?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;">Producing a manuscript represents a significant investment on the part of the author.<span style=""> </span>The two most satisfying words for a writer to type are: The End. That sweet phrase means that at last you’ve finished your manuscript and have finally achieved your goal of writing a novel.<span style=""> </span>An odd mix of emotions overcome me after the winding down after such a monumental task. Crazed joy. A rush of exhilaration. Relief. A dazed, empty sort of numbness. Dizzy, shaky exhaustion. When I finish a new book, I always feel as if I had been sprinting as hard as I could at the end of a marathon, only to crash into a brick wall—full stop. The sadness I felt was like a literary form of post-partum blues.
<br />
<br />It was as if my very best friend had moved out of town. This reaction to such an achievement might sound a little crazy, but this was how I felt. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" >
<br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:";" >In your upcoming release or newly released book, how did you come up with the idea of your main character(s)?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="">For my first book, <b style=""><i style="">Two Loves, One Heart</i></b>, I had personally gone through heartbreak and abuse in a past relationship.<span style=""> </span>I realized that I wanted to share some of my experiences with others who have been victims of abuse.<span style=""> </span>I felt that anyone who has ever felt the heartbreak and trials that love can bring, especially those who have experienced abusive or controlling relationships, would be able to relate to my character Lynnette’s journey to find true love within herself. I wanted to try to give others hope that they can bring their lives around from the brink of devastation and despair if they have the desire to want to help themselves.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I also wanted to express that fact that everyone is worthy of being helped and loved.<span style=""> </span>This help can come from family and friends or professionally if the need be.<span style=""> </span>I am speaking from experience and I am a <b style=""><i style="">SURVIVOR.</i></b><span style=""> </span>My strong faith in God and my family helped me to find my way back from that dark and lonely place.<span style=""> </span>I am thankful and truly blessed.<span style=""> </span>From my ordeal and the bad experiences I learned that, <b style=""><i style="">“LOVE SHOULDN’T HURT”.<o:p></o:p></i></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" >
<br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:";" >Tell us a little bit about your <span class="yshortcuts">work in progress</span> and/or your upcoming release.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">My next novel is another romance novel also titled, <b style=""><i style="">Always in my Heart</i></b>.<span style=""> </span>Here is a little information about the book:</p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">How can two people be such close friends and not be able to see that they are meant for each other?<span style=";font-size:10;color:black;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-size:10;color:black;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;">True love often triumphs through the most complex of circumstances. Rachael Pendleton and Roman Sinclair are two people who connected with each other and have been the best of friends since childhood.<span style=""> </span>This special connection they share has triumphed over all else that has gone amiss in their lives.<span style=""> </span>They each always knew that they would always be there for each other no matter what.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style="color:black;"><span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;">But Rachael and Roman share something else ---- a deep love for each other that neither will acknowledge.<span style=""> </span>Both have had relationships with other people, but they never lasted because some very important elements were missing.... true friendship, honesty, and love. When Roman ends up marrying the wrong woman, Rachael must find a way to let her inhibitions go or lose the man she truly loves forever.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style="color:black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;">I hope to have this book complete by the end of 2008 or the first part of 2009.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p style="font-weight: bold;" class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" >
<br />I’m a big believer that word of mouth creates more sales than advertisements. Let’s say I’ve never read any of your books before, how would you pitch the idea of your latest release to me?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="">My name is Carrie J. Keaton, author of a romance novel - </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><b><i>Two Loves, One Heart</i></b><i> published by Authorhouse </i></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><i>A Fiction Novel Based on True Events and Experiences with True-to-Life Characters.
<br /></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style=""><i>
<br /></i></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=";font-size:100%;color:black;" >What would you do if your <span class="yshortcuts">first love</span> tried to come back into your life after he walked out of your life for over 10 years with no explanation? In this <span class="yshortcuts">new romance novel</span>, TWO LOVES, ONE HEART, Lynnette Thomas is forced to choose between her first love turned abusive and an old friendship that develops into a passionate romance.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=";font-size:100%;color:black;" >
<br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="color:black;"> </span></b><span style="color: rgb(123, 0, 153);"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;">At one of the loneliest points in her life</span> <span style="color:black;">Lynnette reconnects with a friend from her childhood and their friendship blossoms into much more.
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<br /><span style="color: rgb(123, 0, 153);"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"> </span><span style="color: rgb(123, 0, 153);"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;">Will two old friends allow their chance at happiness to slip away? Not if they reach out to each other, give in to their desires, and let love bind their hearts and join their souls. Their lives could be changed forever…. <b>BY A THING CALLED LOVE.</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style="color:black;"><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="color:black;">Two Loves, One Heart is available through Authorhouse, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, etc.</span></b><span style="color: rgb(123, 0, 153);"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" >
<br /></span><span style=";font-family:";" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">I consider myself a tough critic when reviewing books. What do or would you do if you receive a mediocre or less than average rating from a reviewer or reader?</span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="">I would try not to<span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" > </span>become so attached to my work that you won’t change it for God or country. The biggest mistake a writer could make is by being unwilling to change because they think everything is A-okay as is. You’re not only doing the work a disservice, you’re doing <i>yourself</i> a disservice.
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="">I wouldn’t get defensive when some people don’t respond well to my book. I would just roll my shoulders in a shrug and say “so what?” All that matters is that <i>I</i> enjoyed writing it.
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="">I would be open-minded with constructive criticism—listen to what my critics have to say and either take some or none of their advice. It’s up to me. Chances are there <i>will</i> be something useful you can take away from it. </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="">As I had said earlier, I’m still learning. So I would try to surround myself with writers who are better than me. Listen when they talk. They could inspire me to challenge myself and to be the best I can be. If I surround myself with mediocre writers, then I’ll be settling for being a mediocre writer myself.
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="">I will try to train my eye to see abnormalities by offering to critic the work of others and by being generous with both my criticism and my praise and give compliments where compliments are due. In the process, I’ll become a much better critic of my own work as well as of other people’s.
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">
<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size:100%;">I would never be spiteful with criticism just because someone didn’t like something I wrote. I would be kind, courteous, and above all, truthful.
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size:100%;">I would ask for examples during a critique. If critics can’t back up what they are saying with evidence drawn from your work, then it’s not a piece of criticism worth listening to.
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<br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size:100%;">Last but not least, I must always be mindful that not every reader will be as responsive to my material as I am. There are many opinions and tastes, and not all of them will compare with mine. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=";font-family:";" >
<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">What authors influence your writing dreams, goals and aspirations?</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >
<br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">There are several authors who have influenced my writing dreams, goals and aspirations. Just to name a few are: Francis Ray, Brenda Jackson, Zane, Eric Jerome Dickey, Gloria Mallette, Michael Baisden, Sandra Kitt, Omar Tyree, <strong>Angela Nissel, </strong>and Bette Ford.</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">All of these are wonderful authors and I admire them greatly</span>.<span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" >
<br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:";" >What books would you recommend on writing?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;">I’m still finding my way with my writing and still learning, so I’m in no way an expert but will willingly share what I have experienced since I’ve been writing.<span style=""> </span>Assuming that the person who is writing knows the essential mechanics of writing, know how to form cohesive sentences, blah, blah, blah., I think that these books will give them the shot of adrenaline they may be in desperate need of to keep going, keep pursuing, and keep following your writing dreams!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style="color:black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;">1.<span style=""> </span><b style=""><i>On Writing</i> by Stephen King</b> - This has got to be my number one book on writing. The first half is an autobiography. I found his writing to be very real and from the heart. I laughed and even felt a bit saddened at times. You read about his childhood, his first attempts at publishing when he was in grade school, and all of the hard work, long hours and dedication he put into his writing career. This in itself gave me hope that I could someday be a successful author as well!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style="color:black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white none repeat scroll 0% 0%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;"><span style="color:black;">The second half of the book is a no bull, no fluff guide to writing. What I like most about it is that he doesn't bog you down with rule after rule, and strict organization. Forget outlines and note cards and character sketches. He recommends that you just sit down at your computer, go with your muse and see where he/she takes you. He tells you what you need to know from idea to sale, as well as a few simple considerations and rules. He uses examples of his own work and that of others to show what good writing style is and what's not.
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white none repeat scroll 0% 0%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;">
<br /><span style="color:black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white none repeat scroll 0% 0%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;"><span style="color:black;">My writing has begun to flourish because of this book. It's spontaneous and real. When I sit down at the computer I don't even know what the next scene will entail, but I'm always amazed to see what my inner self can come up with once I get out of my own way.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white none repeat scroll 0% 0%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;">
<br /><span style="color:black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white none repeat scroll 0% 0%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;"><b style=""><i><span style="color:black;">Zen in the Art of Writing</span></i><span style="color:black;"> by Ray Bradbury</span></b><span style="color:black;"> - Be prepared! Ray Bradbury will take you by the hand and leave you breathless in this little book. I can honestly say that I've never felt more exhilarated or had more ideas popping into my mind than after reading this book. He advises you to stay drunk on writing because it saves us from reality, to write at least a thousand words a day every day, to write from real life, and much more. What I liked most about this book is the way I felt after reading it. <i>Zen in the Art of Writing</i> is like having Ray Bradbury right there with you, guiding you, cheering you on, urging you to stop creeping and start flying!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white none repeat scroll 0% 0%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;">
<br /><span style="color:black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white none repeat scroll 0% 0%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;"><span style="color:black;">Much in the same vein as Stephen King's book, this gem is not about rules that fence you in and leave you no room to breathe, but in letting loose the inner writer. It draws that fine line between genius and insanity. I loved it!<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white none repeat scroll 0% 0%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;"><span style="color:black;">My creativity has greatly improved because of this book. I highly recommend it.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p style="font-weight: bold;" class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" >
<br /></span><span style=";font-family:";" >If you could change one thing you did during your road to publication, what would it be and what would you have done different?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">If I could change one thing I did during my road to publication, it would be ignore the negative people who made me feel down about my writing and my ability to create a something that others would want to read.<span style=""> </span>I would ignore the negativity and continue on to complete by manuscript and become a published author.<span style=""> </span>I would maintain my courage and confidence and follow my heart and my inner voice.<span style=""> </span>If I had believed in myself more back then instead of allowing negative people to coward me down, I would have been a published author many years sooner.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:";" >What advice would you give an aspiring author?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">My advice to up and coming authors ---Follow your dreams and your heart.<span style=""> </span>In the beginning, I allowed negative people to convince me that I could not write anything that people would want to read.<span style=""> </span>Separate yourself from individuals who only offer you negative, non-constructive criticism.<span style=""> </span>Know your heart and your inner voice.<span style=""> </span>Without that inner sense of who you are, you'll never have the courage to make the necessary investment and sacrifice for your art and craft. You need that to create the kind of writing to benefit both yourself and the world.<span style=""> </span></p> <p><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >Read samples of as many of the top titles as you can get your hands on. The library is good for this--no cost. Now, you don't have to read every page of every book. Just scan them for characters and descriptive material, and then put <b style="">YOURSELF</b> into a storyline. For example, what would YOU do if you were trapped in a cave with a giant 'whatever' blocking the entrance?
<br />
<br />In most of my books, the characters do all the writing--I just sit back and type the words onto the computer screen. In other words, let your mind wander over ideas of how <b style="">YOU</b> would handle a situation and then allow your characters to react.
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<br />As long as you stay away from the central storyline of the other major published books, you should do fine, but try to think out of the box.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >Write every day, whether you want to or not. That's how you become a true writer. Study your grammar and spelling! Most computer spell-checkers will <b style="">NOT</b> catch mistakes like using <b style="">"affect"</b> instead of "effect" or <b style="">"you're"</b> instead of<b style=""> "your".</b> I had to learn about this the hard way.<span style=""> </span>It would be best to have your work professionally edited for errors to avoid this embarrassment.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p style="font-weight: bold;" class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" >
<br />Where can readers learn more about you and your books?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">My website is here:<a href="http://www.authortree.com/carrielee10"> </a><a href="http://www.authortree.com/carrielee10">www.authortree.com/carrielee10</a></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">On this website, I have more information about me and my book, TWO LOVES, ONE HEART.</span><span style=";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">I also have blogs posted there.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">Carrie, thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to share with us. We wish you much success on your future endeavors.
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<br />Jennifer C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12253564132754009574noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5386511270803999247.post-85186890569469936682009-02-10T23:25:00.001-05:002009-02-10T23:25:01.022-05:00Author Leslie Martin<div style="text-align: center; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:180%;">Author Leslie Martin<br /></span></div><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmsks6eb9DCBGhIw_97pftFzAMFFugaV4tqzoxYOOcTKIN_foLjzmESMS3FcJv1I-wjLRTzYQdT_SNL9gz7ItuBIRHOANJtMDrRKQi9NH8dy74Y60GZFr3_lm2fLFw1AWMkN7sCl5b8Nk/s1600-h/leslie+martin.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 239px; height: 298px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmsks6eb9DCBGhIw_97pftFzAMFFugaV4tqzoxYOOcTKIN_foLjzmESMS3FcJv1I-wjLRTzYQdT_SNL9gz7ItuBIRHOANJtMDrRKQi9NH8dy74Y60GZFr3_lm2fLFw1AWMkN7sCl5b8Nk/s320/leslie+martin.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301381744143815218" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tell us a little bit about you outside of being an author.</span><br /><br />I am a single mother with two boys ages 10 & 15. I'm a bit of a sports nuts or I should say Chicago BEARS nut. I was born in Manhattan NY, raised in the western suburbs of Chicago and currently live in the Dallas area.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />What is your earliest writing memory?</span><br /><br />I used to write really bad poetry in high school. lol Then went on to write my own standup comedy routines and then skits and scripts for intustrials.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">What feelings do you experience once you are satisfied with your completed manuscript(s)? </span><br /><br />I don't know that I am ever completely satisfied with something I write.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">In your upcoming release or newly released book, how did you come up with the idea of your main character(s)?</span><br /><br />It's a memoir so I just wrote about what was happening at the time in my life.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tell us a little bit about your work in progress and/or your upcoming release.</span><br /><br />Think "Tuesday's with Morrie" with a twist. My book is a memoir, written in the spirit of Julia Sweeney's "God Said Ha,” Geralyn Lucas’s "Why I wore Lipstick: To My Mastectomy,” and Margaret Edson’s “Wit” which all use unconventional humor to tell the story of their serious medical issues.<br /><br />It chronicles how one week after September 11, 2001, while the rest of the nation struggled with the attacks on our country, I realized during a phone conversation that my 63 year old father was suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. In the midst of a midlife crisis trying to balance my life as a wife, mother and struggling standup comedian, that phone call added caregiver of my father and his 89 year old mother, to my already over loaded plate. (The book also contains a history of family abuses, the redemption of a family’s black sheep, porn talk with a parent and the fact that I perfected the art of going nutty-buckets and shaving my head long before Britney made it chic.)<br /> <br />It is the story of the insanity, bureaucratic nightmare, inner, reverse, and stereotypical racism, along with the headaches and heart breaks which became part of my family’s daily lives. The story is told through my shocked, newly opened and sometimes inappropriately twisted eyes.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">I’m a big believer that word of mouth creates more sales than advertisements. Let’s say I’ve never read any of your books before, how would you pitch the idea of your latest release to me? </span><br /><br />It's a hard subject but one of the craziest books you'll ever read. It can make you laugh and cry in the same sentence. Even if you don't have any family members with Alzheimer's you can still appreciate the dynamics of the "Black Sheep" of the family dealing with being the only who can help those who have labeled her so. Plus, I guarantee you have never read a book with an ending like this.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">I consider myself a tough critic when reviewing books. What do or would you do when you receive a mediocre or less than average rating from a reviewer or reader?<br /></span><br />I try and take it with a grain of salt. Everyone has an opinion and not everyone shares mine.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">What authors influence your writing dreams, goals and aspirations?<br /></span><br />None really. Writing this book was something that happened out of a habit of writing things in my daily life down for standup comedy.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">What books would you recommend on writing?</span><br /><br />I haven't read any so I can't answer that. Writing is just something I do for myself and hope others appreciate it.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />If you could change one thing you did during your road to publication, what would it be and what would you have done different?</span><br /><br />Probably paid more attention to editing. I am "the queen of typos". lol<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />What advice would you give an aspiring author?</span><br /><br />Never give up.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Where can readers learn more about you and your books?</span><br /><br /><a href="http://www.myspace.com/authorleslienmartin">Myspace/authorleslienmartin</a><br /><br />Leslie, thanks for hanging with us and sharing. We wish you much success in your future endeavors.Jennifer C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12253564132754009574noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5386511270803999247.post-23757999885116065262009-02-05T11:30:00.004-05:002009-02-05T11:30:00.341-05:00Author Anjalon Edwards<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Author Anjalon Edwards</span></span>
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOxbJphhnMtGdRjBaFewrJ8PIoEiNAcmKU4idzV6W5Nt_U2Lq-Zcevh0nmbtP9wIHH1cLMKYa1ugL4nQHcHQ6iiG7ZbTYmHAognnJT-557mJfWu3jsXU1VLREWjNHjI32iC9wla8B8Wok/s1600-h/anjalon+edwards.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOxbJphhnMtGdRjBaFewrJ8PIoEiNAcmKU4idzV6W5Nt_U2Lq-Zcevh0nmbtP9wIHH1cLMKYa1ugL4nQHcHQ6iiG7ZbTYmHAognnJT-557mJfWu3jsXU1VLREWjNHjI32iC9wla8B8Wok/s320/anjalon+edwards.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296209528233311762" border="0" /></a>
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<br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Author's Bio:</span> As a mother and a stepmother, Anjalon Edwards found writing to be therapeutic and relaxing. She began her interest in writing in 2005 after curiously taking a writing aptitude test which led her to complete a course with the Institute of Children’s Literature.
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<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic;">To read more of Anjalon's bio check out her website.</span>
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<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Let’s start getting your shine on. Tell us who you are beyond an author.
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<br />I’m an author, a mother of 2 (and stepmother of 1), a wife, a daughter, a sister (and sister-in-law), a social worker, and a field instructor. I am also the co-founder of a women’s social group called Ladies of Mahoghany.
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<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Show us when you realized you had a passion for writing?</span>
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<br />Well, since high school I always knew that writing was a relaxing and fun outlet for me. When other people were passing notes back and forth between classes, my best friend and I were passing a notebook of stories.
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<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">We understand that uniqueness counts in the literary world, but we equally understand there must be relatability. Tell us an author with whom you share similar writing style</span>s.
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<br />I’m not sure, I have read a variety of authors but if I must pick one it might by Terri McMillan.
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<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Show us how your styles are similar.</span>
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<br />Simply because I like to write in first person. It was easy to accomplish my goal of drawing the reader into the main character’s world. Also, I think “we” write reality-based fiction because our stories are real and based off truth.
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<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Tell us your preferred writing genre and the genre you prefer to read.</span>
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<br />I prefer contemporary fiction. I would like to consider my current novel as a crossover between contemporary Christian and urban contemporary fiction. I want to break into non-fiction using my personal experience and studies as a social worker.
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<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Show us what your audience looks like.</span>
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<br />Mostly female. But I have had some male fans, mostly my friends. I welcome everyone because my current novel explores familial relationships so everyone can relate.
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<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Tell us an important lesson, on the business side of publishing that you've learned on your journey.
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<br />Marketing is very difficult and if you don’t do enough of it, you won’t sell. Also, it takes money to make money so if you are a self-published author then be ready to invest and price your book at a price where you can make a decent profit. Lastly, just like any other job, it’s who you now. I have received some great opportunities but it was timing and some name dropping that got me that far. I’m still working on it.
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<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Going back to the beginning, show us the day you received your publication offer or the first time you saw your bound book.
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<br />Wow, I was ecstatic! I showed my husband and my ladies group first. I was so proud to invest in myself and see the end product in front of me.
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<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Tell us your expectations of an aspiring author approaching you for information about writing/publishing?</span>
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<br />Come with a well edited galley. Be ready to press pass any introvertness you may have so you can advertise and sell.
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<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Ready to shine? Tell us the name of your book.
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<br />My fiction novel is called Reality Check: Stepmother Chronicles. Carmen Fuller is getting fed up with the baby mama drama, her meddling in-laws and her guilt-driven husband. Stress levels run high for this thirty-two year old mother of two. She struggles with her feelings as a stepmother to nine year old Junior and discovers that she is not alone. Her situation intensifies when she suspects her husband, Tyrell, of unfaithfulness. The couple struggles with moving forward. As she figures things out, she makes some astonishing discoveries about Junior that have been happening all along. Carmen decides to choose her battles carefully and accept things for what they are.
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<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">From one of your character's point of view, show us why we should buy it.
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<br />I believe that almost every parent can attest to being so caught up in your child that you neglect the relationship between you and your spouse. I for one did and I paid for it. I didn’t realize how much my desire to be that cool and fun parent would affect my intimate relationship with my wife. I found out the hard way that I’ve got a lot to learn about being the head of my household. It’s high time I pull out the Keith Sweat and keep my other half happy. (Tyrell Fuller)
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<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Tell us where we can find you on the internet.</span>
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<br />Reality Check: Stepmother Chronicles is available at major online bookstores Amazon, Borders, and Barnes&Noble.
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<br /><a href="http://www.stepmother-chronicles.com/">Reality Check: Stepmother Chronicles</a>
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<br />Thank you Anjalon for taking time out of your busy schedule to share with us.Jennifer C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12253564132754009574noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5386511270803999247.post-84277929545775547952009-02-03T23:36:00.001-05:002009-02-03T23:36:00.415-05:00Author PC Marks<div style="text-align: center; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:180%;">Author PC Marks
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOwMBVRd8m50lXHgF3Jv7fapTFLGV6t_c548eFlVgTYOhMxfKSYhI8atCYm9UB1s6u4WXrOt-J-oE8A7t-WlffEXdTKAadfqXINi9cvl29S8SOo6tph6VkPmlQlFx05k1tvyxHZEHLbhI/s1600-h/pcmarks.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOwMBVRd8m50lXHgF3Jv7fapTFLGV6t_c548eFlVgTYOhMxfKSYhI8atCYm9UB1s6u4WXrOt-J-oE8A7t-WlffEXdTKAadfqXINi9cvl29S8SOo6tph6VkPmlQlFx05k1tvyxHZEHLbhI/s320/pcmarks.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296204828934541442" border="0" /></a>
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<br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="size10 ArialBlack10" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:'Arial Black',Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;" >ABOUT THE AUTHOR:</span>
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<br /></div><span class="size10 Helvetica10" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;" >Local Cleveland Area Resident. Graduate of Jane Addams Vocational High School, Banking/Finance Major. Attended the Cleveland Institute of Computer Mgmt. Ambassador of the World’s Largest Poetry Society </span><a href="http://www.poetry.com/"><span class="size10 Helvetica10" style="color: rgb(64, 106, 176);font-family:Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;" ><u><b></b></u></span></a><span class="size10 Helvetica10" style="color: rgb(64, 106, 176);font-family:Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;" ><u><b><a target="_self">http://www.poetry.com</a></b></u></span><span class="size10 Helvetica10" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;" > Married mother of two</span>.
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mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><st1:place st="on"><st1:placetype st="on"><span style="color:black;">Institute</span></st1:placetype><span style="color:black;"> of <st1:placename st="on">Computer Mgmt</st1:placename></span></st1:place><span style="color:black;">, Student of the Long Ridge Writers Group, Ambassador of the World’s Largest Poetry Society, Freelance Writer, Mother of two<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:red;">
<br />What is your earliest writing memory?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:red;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Around seven years old, I remember putting together cute little poems that grew into stories, which I still do today.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:red;">
<br />What feelings do you experience once you are satisfied with your completed manuscript(s)?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:red;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I am never 100% satisfied with my manuscripts.<span style=""> </span>If I write a chapter that I think is excellent I get a feeling of satisfaction that is un-describable.<span style=""> </span>Then I go back and read it again and continue to improve upon us.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:red;">
<br />In your upcoming release or newly released book, how did you come up with the idea of your main character(s)?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:red;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">With my first book Broken Family Ties; I sat down at my computer depressed and just started typing.<span style=""> </span>It started out being about a 5 year old who was accused of being the seventh child born and evil.<span style=""> </span>Before long I found myself going in a totally different direction about parental superstitions, lies and deceit.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Part II Severed Family Ties was written more traditionally.<span style=""> </span>I used a scene builder script, narrated the story. I also studied Broken Family Ties to clean up all loose ends and such.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:red;">
<br />Tell us a little bit about your work in progress and/or your upcoming release.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:red;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Broken Family Ties was released 12/2006.<span style=""> </span>The follow up Severed Family Ties is soon to be released and will answer all the cliffhangers.<span style=""> </span>It will start out with Carl, the oldest sibling being homeless, answer Caroline’s child situation, explain Charles’ idiosyncrasies and delve more into the relationships of their parents’ Kevin and Ann Grover.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:red;">
<br />I’m a big believer that word of mouth creates more sales than advertisements. Let’s say I’ve never read any of your books before, how would you pitch the idea of your latest release to me?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:red;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:red;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Headline Suggestion:<span style=""> </span><b style="">Family Ties, Family Lies<o:p></o:p></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Word Count: 185</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in; line-height: 200%;"><i><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">Broken Family Ties</span></i><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> is an introduction into the lives of the Grover children and their extended family. Caroline, Charles and Carl Grover are born to Kevin and Ann Grover. Caroline is taken in as an infant for a hearing test, the doctor makes an observation that her soul is in trouble. Caroline is described as evil, with a disconcerting look and precocious in her mannerisms. When Caroline, the middle child, is five years-old the children lose their parents and their grandparents, Henry and Alicia <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in; line-height: 200%;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">Brooks move in to care for them. Immediately it is clear that Alicia is harboring secrets and resentments where the kids are concerned. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in; line-height: 200%;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">Grandma Alicia is a woman only concerned with her God and living in her dead daughter’s beautiful home. She has no use for anyone else and is honest about it. She is the true power in the home and makes the decisions. Grandpa Henry is an inactive participant.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">Broken Family Ties</span></i><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> is available @ <a href="http://www.lulu.com/">www.lulu.com</a> and<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Broken-Family-Ties-PCMarks/dp/061516093X"><span style=""> </span></a><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Broken-Family-Ties-PCMarks/dp/061516093X">http://www.amazon.com/Broken-Family-Ties-PCMarks/dp/061516093X</a><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">Part II-<i style="">Severed Family Ties </i>unofficial release date, late 2008<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:red;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:red;">
<br />I consider myself a tough critic when reviewing books. What do or would you do when you receive a mediocre or less than average rating from a reviewer or reader?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I take their suggestions into account and build upon them.<span style=""> </span>Since I am self published and there is very little budget for my craft, I consider this free editing and welcome it with open arms.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:red;">
<br />What authors influence your writing dreams, goals and aspirations?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:red;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Not only do I have a natural love for writing, I also love to read.<span style=""> </span>I make a point of not letting other writers influence my style.<span style=""> </span>I want to find my own voice.<span style=""> </span>That being said, some of the authors I find myself drawn to in distant past and present are VC Andrews and Carl Weber.<span style=""> </span>I’ve read Eric Jerome Dickey’s latest and was unimpressed.<span style=""> </span>Below is a list of books I read in July.<span style=""> </span>I always review them after completion.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:red;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <table class="MsoNormalTable" style="width: 8.5in; border-collapse: collapse; margin-left: 6.75pt; margin-right: 6.75pt;" align="left" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="816"> <tbody><tr style="height: 63.75pt;"> <td style="border: 1pt solid windowtext; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 38pt; height: 63.75pt;" valign="bottom" width="51" nowrap="nowrap"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;" align="right"><b><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" >Jul-08<o:p></o:p></span></b></p> </td> <td style="border-style: solid solid solid none; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 79.25pt; height: 63.75pt;color:windowtext windowtext windowtext -moz-use-text-color;" valign="bottom" width="106"> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" >Back Roads<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> </td> <td style="border-style: solid solid solid none; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 63pt; height: 63.75pt;color:windowtext windowtext windowtext -moz-use-text-color;" valign="bottom" width="84" nowrap="nowrap"> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" >Tawni O'Dell<o:p></o:p></span></p> </td> <td style="border-style: solid solid solid none; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 431.75pt; height: 63.75pt;color:windowtext windowtext windowtext -moz-use-text-color;" valign="bottom" width="576"> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><b><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" >Excellent!<span style=""> </span>Definite good read.<span style=""> </span>Flowed nicely and kept me guessing.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><b><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" >I thought for sure the killer deserved her just due.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><b><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" >Some of the areas took me where I wasn't ready to go.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><b><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" >But once I got there I was in awe of this writer.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="height: 76.5pt;"> <td style="border-style: none solid solid; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 38pt; height: 76.5pt;color:-moz-use-text-color windowtext windowtext;" valign="bottom" width="51" nowrap="nowrap"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;" align="right"><b><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" >Jul-08<o:p></o:p></span></b></p> </td> <td style="border-style: none solid solid none; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 79.25pt; height: 76.5pt;color:-moz-use-text-color windowtext windowtext -moz-use-text-color;" valign="bottom" width="106"> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" >Bad Boy, A Memoir<o:p></o:p></span></p> </td> <td style="border-style: none solid solid none; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 63pt; height: 76.5pt;color:-moz-use-text-color windowtext windowtext -moz-use-text-color;" valign="bottom" width="84" nowrap="nowrap"> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" >Walter Dean Myers<o:p></o:p></span></p> </td> <td style="border-style: none solid solid none; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 431.75pt; height: 76.5pt;color:-moz-use-text-color windowtext windowtext -moz-use-text-color;" valign="bottom" width="576"> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><b><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" >Boring as hell!<span style=""> </span>This story was so long and drawn out, I got half way <o:p></o:p></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><b><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" >through the short memoir and didn’t care what made Walter a bad boy. <o:p></o:p></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><b><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" ><span style=""> </span>I forced myself to finish it and liked the ending.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><b><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" >His writing style was excellent, even though drawn out at times.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><b><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" >He wasn’t a bad boy; I felt he was more so lost.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="height: 76.5pt;"> <td style="border-style: none solid solid; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 38pt; height: 76.5pt;color:-moz-use-text-color windowtext windowtext;" valign="bottom" width="51" nowrap="nowrap"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;" align="right"><b><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" >Jul-08<o:p></o:p></span></b></p> </td> <td style="border-style: none solid solid none; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 79.25pt; height: 76.5pt;color:-moz-use-text-color windowtext windowtext -moz-use-text-color;" valign="bottom" width="106"> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" >Better Than I Know Myself<o:p></o:p></span></p> </td> <td style="border-style: none solid solid none; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 63pt; height: 76.5pt;color:-moz-use-text-color windowtext windowtext -moz-use-text-color;" valign="bottom" width="84" nowrap="nowrap"> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><st1:place st="on"><st1:state st="on"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" >Virginia</span></st1:state></st1:place><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" > DeBerry & Donna Grant<o:p></o:p></span></p> </td> <td style="border-style: none solid solid none; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 431.75pt; height: 76.5pt;color:-moz-use-text-color windowtext windowtext -moz-use-text-color;" valign="bottom" width="576"> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><b><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" >Excellent!<span style=""> </span>Three unlikely girls cross paths and develop life long <o:p></o:p></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><b><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" >friendships helping each other through searching for a child, <o:p></o:p></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><b><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" >drug addiction, weddings, cancer and death-awesome!<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><b><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" >Just when I thought I had it figured out <o:p></o:p></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><b><span style=";font-family:";font-size:10;" >Deberry & Grant took a new route!<o:p></o:p></span></b></p> </td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:red;">
<br /><!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]-->
<br /><!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:red;">What books would you recommend on writing?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:red;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I would recommend that every aspiring writer who believes that they have a raw talent/love for it should take at least one professional writing course.<span style=""> </span>I highly recommend Long Ridge Writing Group, it is affordable and honest critiques are given of your home work assignments. And the course can be completed at your leisure.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:red;">
<br /><span style=""> </span>If you could change one thing you did during your road to publication, what would it be and what would you have done different?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:red;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">There is more than one thing I would change.<span style=""> </span>I would heed to the advice of getting my work copyedited.<span style=""> </span>I would not rely on friends, family, and co-workers.<span style=""> </span>And my best friend would be the last to read it, not the first as she was only trying to protect my feeling, when in fact she allowed me to embarrass myself.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:red;">
<br />What advice would you give an aspiring author?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:red;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">If you love to write then write!<span style=""> </span>No matter what anyone says, chase your dreams, hone your craft and go for it with a vengeance!<span style=""> </span>If you fall on your face get back up and start writing.<span style=""> </span>For every bad review you receive, change your way of thinking.<span style=""> </span>It’s not a bad review.<span style=""> </span>It’s constructive criticism to help you improve your craft.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:red;">
<br />Where can readers learn more about you and your books?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:red;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www.lulu.com/content/583716">http://www.lulu.com/content/583716</a><o:p>
<br /></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www.pcpcmarks.com/">www.pcpcmarks.com</a><span style=""><a href="http://www.pcpcmarks.com/"> </a> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www.freewebs.com/pcmarks">www.freewebs.com/pcmarks</a><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><u><a href="http://www.buzznet.com/">www.buzznet.com</a><o:p><span style="text-decoration: none;">
<br /></span></o:p></u></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><u><span style="color:navy;"><a href="http://authortree.com/pcmarks">http://authortree.com/pcmarks</a><o:p><span style="text-decoration: none;">
<br /></span></o:p></span></u></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span><u><span style="color:navy;"><a href="http://blackauthors.ning.com/profile/PCMarks"><span style="color:navy;">http://blackauthors.ning.com/profile/PCMarks</span></a><o:p><span style="text-decoration: none;">
<br /></span></o:p></span></u></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><u><span style="color:navy;"><a href="http://www.authorsden.com/pcmarks">http://www.authorsden.com/pcmarks</a><o:p><span style="text-decoration: none;">
<br /></span></o:p></span></u></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><u><span style="color:navy;"><a href="http://booksxyz.com/search.php?q=broken+family+ties&x=5&y=9">http://booksxyz.com/search.php?q=broken+family+ties&x=5&y=9</a><o:p><span style="text-decoration: none;">
<br /></span></o:p></span></u></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><u><span style="color:navy;"><a href="http://www.myspace.com/pcmarkspublications">http://www.myspace.com/pcmarkspublications</a><o:p><span style="text-decoration: none;">
<br /></span></o:p></span></u></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><u><span style="color:navy;"><a href="http://nubianlitnetwork.ning.com/profile/PCMarks">http://nubianlitnetwork.ning.com/profile/PCMarks</a><o:p></o:p></span></u></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><u><o:p><span style="text-decoration: none;">
<br /></span></o:p></u></p> <p class="MsoNormal">And….a whole lot of reading groups and book clubs through Yahoo Groups</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><o:p> </o:p></b></p>
<br />Thank you PC for taking time out of your busy schedule and sharing with us.
<br />
<br />
<br />Jennifer C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12253564132754009574noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5386511270803999247.post-207432665181505972009-01-29T23:26:00.001-05:002009-01-29T23:26:01.134-05:00Author Amber Hipple<div style="text-align: center; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:180%;">Author Amber Hipple</span>
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<![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">
<br /><b style="">Let’s start getting your shine on. Tell us who you are beyond an author.</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">
<br />I suppose the first place to start is if I want to be sexy, like my book or mysterious like a woman is supposed to be. I think I'm gonna go with honest though. I'm really rather dull. I work two jobs to make ends meet since my divorce and I've got a cat. I crochet, play video games, and read a lot. I'm a bit of a dork and a spaz. I still feel like the nerdy kid with crooked teeth and funny clothes that no one wants to play with. I've never outgrown it and as a result, I'm very shy. I've learned to overcome that, however. I take life by the horns. I just plunge in and hope for the best. Because of that, I can be a little overwhelming and people either love me or hate me. I don't like the hate part; I'm terribly vulnerable. I guess, I'm just a person with the same hang ups and issues as anyone else.
<br />
<br /><b style="">Show us when you realized you had a passion for writing?</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">
<br />I don't think I have a passion for writing. I have a passion for reading and like many people, I wanted to see if I could do it too. I continue to do it because I want to be good at it. I realize that I have a gift for language and I want to hone it. This is my usual compulsion. The other reasons I write is because I have so much inside me that I need to pour out. But, back to the question at hand, I realized that I needed to write when I was a moody teenager. I had these intense feelings of loneliness and a need to experience more, and I poured this out in poetry. Eventually, the poetry wasn't enough and I found myself writing longer pieces that became stories.
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<br /><b style="">We understand that uniqueness counts in the literary world, but we equally understand there must be relatability. Tell us an author with whom you share similar <span class="yshortcuts"><span style="cursor: pointer;" id="lw_1233116829_0">writing styles</span></span>.</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">
<br />I'd say I share similar styles with two authors. One would be <span class="yshortcuts"><span style="cursor: pointer;" id="lw_1233116829_1">Anne Rice</span></span>. The woman has a penchant for description that I've always envied and enjoyed. I try to emulate that. It lends a richness to stories that is especially useful in erotica. The other would be Jamie Joy Gatto. Jamie Joy writes or rather, did write, she's 'retired', erotica that was emotional and deeply moving. The sex was arousing yes, but also a vehicle for a deeper things than romance and getting your rocks off.
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<br /><b style="">Show us how your styles are similar.</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"> Ah, my styles are similar to Anne Rice in the way that I layer on descriptions. I can be almost flowery sometimes. I tend to spend a great deal of time on things that are really of little importance to the plot because I want to bring to life a certain feeling or setting. Now, as far as Jamie Joy, our subject matter is almost the same. I can't write just sex. Everything I've ever written has had some emotional quality to it which is a great deal like JJ's.
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<br /><b style="">Tell us your preferred writing genre and the genre you prefer to read.</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">
<br />I don't really have a preferred writing genre. I've tried my hand at erotica, horror, humor, main stream fiction, fantasy, etc. I just write a story, regardless of what it's about. It's easier to sell erotica, however, so I usually stick to that. I prefer to read fantasy. I'm a bit of a dork in that respect. But, I'll read anything. A book just has to be good.
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<br /><b style="">Show us what your audience looks like.</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">
<br />I would hope everyone, but I've always envisioned most of my readers as open-minded women who understand intense emotions. Age doesn't make a difference, but she'll have had a few long term relationships and will be able to understand the pain associated with love that often happens without either partner trying to wound the other.
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<br />Tell us an important lesson, on the business side of publishing, that you've learned on your journey.</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">
<br />Writing doesn't make you rich. Plain and simple. Don't quit your job to be a writer. Quit your job after you've become a writer, if you can, but don't expect to make it big just because you write a good yarn. There's always someone out there who's better than you or a publisher who doesn't want what you're selling. So don't expect to be rolling in the dough.
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<br /><b style="">Going back to the beginning, show us the day you received your publication offer or the first time you saw your bound book.</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">
<br />I want to talk about the first time I saw my contract. That's when it all became real to me. There it was, in black and white, the things I'd been working towards for seven years. I squealed and clutched it to my chest. I took it out of the envelope and filled it out with a good pen using the utmost precision. I was reverent.
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<br /><b style="">Tell us your expectations of an aspiring author approaching you for information about writing/publishing?</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">
<br />I don't really have any expectations. Mostly because I don't think I'm the best for advice, but if someone were to approach me, I'd expect them to have written something before and had it lauded by an English teacher, a contest, maybe a newspaper. It would be very odd to just decide to be a writer if you've never tried writing.
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<br /><b style="">Ready to shine? Tell us the name of your book.</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">
<br />Bittersweet. One word. You can find it <span class="yshortcuts"><span style="cursor: pointer;" id="lw_1233116829_2">March 30th</span></span> at<a href="http://www.logical-lust.com/"> Logical-Lust Publications,</a> an imprint of LL Publications
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<br /><b style="">From one of your character's point of view, show us why we should buy it. From a character's point of view?</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Ah, buy it so they know they aren't alone. These men and women I write about are hurting, they're reaching out. Buy the book, empathize with them.
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<br /><b style="">Tell us where we can find you on the internet.</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">
<br />Best place to keep track of me would be <a name="SAWARN1d61301" id="SAWARN1d61301" original_name="" original_id="" real_href="http://redhipple.livejournal.com/"></a><a href="http://redhipple.livejournal.com" target="_blank"><span style=""><span class="yshortcuts"><span style="color: blue;"><span id="lw_1233116829_3">http://redhipple.livejournal.com</span></span></span></span><span style=""></span></a><span style=""> or </span><a href="http://www.myspace.com/amberhipple" target="_blank" id="SAWARN1d61301" original_name="" original_id="" real_href="http://www.myspace.com/amberhipple"></a><a><span style=""><span class="yshortcuts"><span style="color: blue;"><span id="lw_1233116829_4">http://www.myspace.com/amberhipple</span></span></span></span></a></span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Thanks Amber for taking time out of your busy schedule to share with us.
<br /><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><a href="http://www.myspace.com/amberhipple" target="_blank" id="SAWARN1d61301" original_name="" original_id="" real_href="http://www.myspace.com/amberhipple"></a><a><span style=""><span class="yshortcuts"><span style="color: blue;"><span id="lw_1233116829_4"></span></span></span></span></a><span style=""></span><span style=""></span><o:p></o:p></span></p> Jennifer C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12253564132754009574noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5386511270803999247.post-59756889536508544562009-01-27T23:10:00.005-05:002009-01-27T23:48:21.859-05:00Author Nikki Ransom<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Author Nikki Ransom</span>
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhucXjDaYIAHN5_W5hSWm19c0sLAarrobJH7Wx_M6qGVHSWpKc0jPuxOEUU5CE2vj9jLiDXreTMdSN8VaRIvr4jvoCtF9nXaZni1igQ1WkWLxMTOE8J2SHt2XV4v6LAhMqJ-nRdQMDUbZ8/s1600-h/nikki+ransom.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhucXjDaYIAHN5_W5hSWm19c0sLAarrobJH7Wx_M6qGVHSWpKc0jPuxOEUU5CE2vj9jLiDXreTMdSN8VaRIvr4jvoCtF9nXaZni1igQ1WkWLxMTOE8J2SHt2XV4v6LAhMqJ-nRdQMDUbZ8/s320/nikki+ransom.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296192273384811634" border="0" /></a>
<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Bio:</span> Nikki Ransom graduated from South High School in Columbus, Ohio in 1997. After graduating, she joined the workforce and then went on to receive her bachelor of Business Administration from DeVry University where she was also chosen to be the Student Commencement Speaker for her graduation in October 2005.
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<br /></div><span style="font-style: italic;">To read more of the author's bio please visit her website.</span>
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name="Bibliography"> <w:lsdexception locked="false" priority="39" qformat="true" name="TOC Heading"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:"Cambria Math"; panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:roman; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:-1610611985 1107304683 0 0 159 0;} @font-face {font-family:Calibri; panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:swiss; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:-1610611985 1073750139 0 0 159 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-unhide:no; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; 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font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" > <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" >Tell us a little bit about you outside of being an author.</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><b><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" ></span></b><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" >The main thing I can say about myself outside of being an author is that I am a mother of four! That's consuming in itself. Also I am a motivational speaker and my passion is to help young women enhance themselves as well as their community.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" >
<br /><b>What is your earliest writing memory?</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" >I have always written poems and what not as a child but around when I turned about 25 years old, I got this overwhelming urge to write non-fiction as a way to reach out to others and now, here I am!<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" >
<br /><b>What feelings do you experience once you are satisfied with your completed manuscript(s)?</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" >Its kind of like giving birth to me. I cried. For months and months, even years, you are pouring yourself into your manuscript and when its done, it's like "here is my baby! It's done!" Finishing is a huge relief but then you are terrified because now its time for the world to see (and also critique) what you have given birth to.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" >
<br /><b>In your upcoming release or newly released book, how did you come up with the idea of your main character(s)?</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" >My book is non-fiction so all of the main characters are very real.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" >
<br /><b>Tell us a little bit about your work in progress and/or your upcoming release.</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" >Well "Hidden Butterflies" has already been released only a couple of weeks. This book takes a look into a woman's life (myself) that never loved herself and how that missing aspect of my life almost ended my life, literally. I ended up marrying a man that would cause me to lose my home, my car, everything and end up on the street with my kids. Unfortunately, he has just been released from jail for threatening my life. So, I am also working on Part two of the book which will go into more depth about coming out of that marriage and keeping safe, finding real love, as well as the excitement surrounding the release of my first book.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" >
<br /><b><span style=""> </span>I'm a big believer that word of mouth creates more sales than advertisements. Let's say I've never read any of your books before, how would you pitch the idea of your latest release to me?</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" >I would say that "I came to write "Hidden Butterflies" after finally leaving my drug addicted, abusive husband. During my relationship with him, I was verbally, emotionally, sexually, and physically abused so much to where I began to think that suicide would be my only way to freedom. My husband had such control over me that he persuaded me to take a second job as a stripper and even attempted to turn me into a prostitute. This book, other than being wildly entertaining and thought-provoking, serves as a cautionary tale to women of what can happen when we do not develop our own self-esteem and also the importance of instilling this self-worth in our daughters.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" >
<br /><b>I consider myself a tough critic when reviewing books. What do or would you do when you receive a mediocre or less than average rating from a reviewer or reader?</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" >It might sting at first, but hey, there are people out there that don't like lobster, so I can't expect everyone to like my book.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" >
<br /><b>What authors influence your writing dreams, goals and aspirations?</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" >Robin Givens and Valorie Burton<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" >
<br /><b>What books would you recommend on writing?</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" >I personally couldn't recommend any. My books are about my life and I just the words pour out and fixed it up afterwards. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" >
<br /><b>If you could change one thing you did during your road to publication, what would it be and what would you have done different?</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" >I would have gotten a better editor. I was on a tight budget and self-published, so I went with an editor that gave me a great deal but not-so-great editing. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" >
<br /><b>What advice would you give an aspiring author?</b><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" >My advice would be to not let anyone tell you 'no' or that you can't do it or won't make it as a writer. If major publishers won't accept your book then do it yourself. No matter what, get your word out there to the public.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" >
<br /><b>Where can readers learn more about you and your books?</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" ><b> </b><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" >They can learn more about me and my books at my website <a name="SAWARN1d61301"></a><a href="http://www.nikkiransom.org./" target="_blank"><span style=""><span style="color:blue;">www.nikkiransom.org</span></span></a><a href="http://www.nikkiransom.org./">.</a></span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Thank you Nikki for taking time out of your busy schedule to share with us.
<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> </div></div>Jennifer C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12253564132754009574noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5386511270803999247.post-25396766299619609042009-01-21T00:20:00.004-05:002009-01-21T00:33:31.510-05:00Author Tinisha Johnson<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Author Tinisha Johnson</span></span>
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibK-5GUho-kGFRYn5Zv2_hyCw870NXJfNrK5SVSrw9i46O39jXKkH93D1xjGkZBBzzGAddiyF4fhYjQDWh8k3vDZdxIB7tRoeZbpk93PEakmIrxZrbW9vOBZUK7XOzHhs-OyUW4-WSdNU/s1600-h/TinishaNicoleJohnson.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 210px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibK-5GUho-kGFRYn5Zv2_hyCw870NXJfNrK5SVSrw9i46O39jXKkH93D1xjGkZBBzzGAddiyF4fhYjQDWh8k3vDZdxIB7tRoeZbpk93PEakmIrxZrbW9vOBZUK7XOzHhs-OyUW4-WSdNU/s320/TinishaNicoleJohnson.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293613115048781906" border="0" /></a>
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<br /><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:";font-size:100%;" >Tell us a little bit about you outside of being an author.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;color:red;" >Outside being an author, I’m a mother and a wife. I also work as an Event Specialist, hosting mostly political teleconferences. I get to talk and listen to lots of Congressmen and Senators.</span><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:";font-size:100%;" >What is your earliest writing memory?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;color:red;" >Possibly when I was about ten years old. At least that’s when I remember that English was my favorite subject. At that point I took an interest in reading various books and soon took an interest in writing poetry.</span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">What feelings do you experience once you are satisfied with your completed manuscript(s)?
<br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;color:red;" >I feel a huge sense of relief and accomplishment. I feel like I’m in heaven or something. I smile just as wide, because every time I finish a piece of writing, I know I’m living my passion and dreams.</span><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;color:red;" >
<br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:";font-size:100%;" >In your upcoming release or newly released book, how did you come up with the idea of your main character(s)?
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;color:red;" >In my novel, <i>Searchable Whereabouts</i>, Rahkel Williams is my main character. Since I knew I wanted to make this novel a murder mystery, I concluded that I’ll make her have several problems and issues to deal with on top of solving the mystery of her beloved uncle’s death.</span><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tell us a little bit about your work in progress and/or your upcoming release.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span>
<br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><i><span style=";font-family:";color:red;" >Searchable Whereabouts</span></i></span><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;color:red;" > is the story of Rahkel Williams who’s trying to unravel the mysterious murder of her beloved uncle. However, after his death, she finds out her uncle may have been living a double life. She sets out to find the truth along with the police and private investigator Darrin Miller. But soon finds she’s in over her head when a horrific family secret is revealed, which lead to her uncles murder.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;color:red;" >I also have an upcoming release that I collaborated on with two other authors - Linda R. Herman and Allyson M. Deese. The name of the book is <i>Somebody Prayed For Me</i>. It’s a collection of short stories, poems and letters. It’s an inspirational book filled with so much emotion. I really enjoyed working on this project. It is dear to my heart</span><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >
<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">I’m a big believer that word of mouth creates more sales than advertisements. Let’s say I’ve never read any of your books before, how would you pitch the idea of your latest release to me?</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span>
<br /></span><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;color:red;" >What would you do if your loved one was murdered, and later found out they were living a double life, which carried on a horrific family secret for several years? That’s what happened to Rahkel Williams in the mystery novel, <i>Searchable Whereabouts</i> by Tinisha Nicole Johnson. Someone doesn’t want her to know the truth about her beloved uncle’s murder, and will even attempt to kill her to stop her from learning the truth.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">I consider myself a tough critic when reviewing books. What do or would you do when you receive a mediocre or less than average rating from a reviewer or reader?</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;color:red;" >Take it as it is, and yes, sometimes it may hurt, but I have to believe in myself. I realize not everyone’s going to like what I write and that’s okay. But at the same time, I learn and continue to always perfect my writing. I can’t take everything what people say or write about me so personal to the extent that I forget that as long as I’m living my passion, that's good enough for me.</span><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:";font-size:100%;" >
<br />What authors influence your writing dreams, goals and aspirations?
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;color:red;" >Stephen King, Zane, Eric Jerome Dickey, James Patterson. I’m big on self-help and non-fiction. Some of those authors are: Cynthia Kersey, Brian Tracy, Anthony Robbins and Bob Proctor.</span><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:";font-size:100%;color:red;" >
<br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:";font-size:100%;" >What books would you recommend on writing?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;color:red;" >My bookshelf is filled with books on writing, but two that come to my mind that I’ve recently referred to are: <i>On Writing Well</i> by William Zinsser and <i>Writing for Story</i> by Jon Franklin</span><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">If you could change one thing you did during your road to publication, what would it be and what would you have done different?</span>
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;color:red;" >I would have hired an editor, and I also would have tried longer to find an agent.</span><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">What advice would you give an aspiring author?</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span>
<br /></span><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;color:red;" >Persistence; Believe in yourself; Never listen to anyone who says it can’t be done, Constantly read and write.</span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:";font-size:100%;" >Where can readers learn more about you and your books?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;color:red;" >Readers can visit my website:</span><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" > <a name="SAWARN1d5i0ed"></a><a href="http://www.tinishanicolejohnson.com/" target="_blank"><span style=""><span style="color:purple;">www.TinishaNicoleJohnson.com</span></span></a><span style=""> </span></span><span style=";font-size:100%;" ><span style=";font-family:";color:red;" >Readers can purchase Searchable Whereabouts at </span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/" target="_blank"><span style=""><span style=";font-family:";color:blue;" >Amazon.com</span></span></a></span><span style=";font-size:100%;" ><span style=";font-family:";color:red;" >, Barnes & Noble, or they can request it at any book store.</span></span><span style=";font-size:100%;" ><span style=";font-family:";" ><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-size:100%;" ><span style=";font-family:";" >
<br />
<br /><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-size:100%;" ><b><i><span style=";font-family:";color:black;" >Tinisha Nicole Johnson </span></i></b></span><span style=";font-size:100%;" ><b><i><span style=";font-family:";" >
<br /></span></i></b></span><span style=";font-size:100%;" ><b><i><span style=";font-family:";color:maroon;" >Writer/Author/Poet
<br /></span></i></b></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="http://www.tinishanicolejohnson.com/" target="_blank"><span style=""><b><i><span style=";font-family:";color:navy;" >www.tinishanicolejohnson.com</span></i></b></span></a></span><span style=";font-size:100%;" ><b><i><span style=";font-family:";color:navy;" > <span style="background: white none repeat scroll 0% 0%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;">
<br /></span></span></i></b></span><span style=";font-size:100%;" ><b><i><span style=";font-family:";" >
<br /></span></i></b></span><span style=";font-size:100%;" ><b><i><span style=";font-family:";color:maroon;" >Proud Member of ASA (Authors Supporting Authors)
<br /></span></i></b></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="http://www.asanetwork.webs.com/" target="_blank"><span style=""><b><i><span style=";font-family:";" >www.asanetwork.webs.com</span></i></b></span></a></span><span style=";font-size:100%;" ><b><i><span style=";font-family:";" ><a href="http://www.asanetwork.webs.com/"> </a><span style="background: white none repeat scroll 0% 0%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;">
<br /></span></span></i></b></span><span style=";font-size:100%;" ><b><i><span style=";font-family:";" >
<br /></span></i></b></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CkC6oC_v5Yc" target="_blank"><span style=""><b style=""><i style=""><span style=";font-family:";color:blue;" ><!--[endif]--></span></i></b></span></a></span><span style=";font-size:100%;" ><span style=";font-family:";" >
<br /><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style=";font-size:100%;" ><span style=";font-family:";" ><o:p> </o:p></span></span></p><span style="font-size:100%;">Tinisha, thank you for taking the time to share a little with us. Many blessings to you in all your future endeavors.
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<br />Jennifer C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12253564132754009574noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5386511270803999247.post-52330437886414392112009-01-13T23:30:00.000-05:002009-01-13T23:30:00.479-05:00Author Desiree Day<div style="text-align: center; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:180%;">Author Desiree Day<br /></span></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj05MJPk4EBcwMFgYPoF43Uhoy0YSP7gj7yzSGGmePvQ3BJAzBWK0DhJJvq9GjENcMs2yjYm5zp8jGG-yvfR6-Umh5O0BmQRxMyKCweMIT61GBDtU4j0ULon_RqqLv1LKM_Gqbsbi_vzhM/s1600-h/One+G+string+Short+of+Crazy.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 206px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj05MJPk4EBcwMFgYPoF43Uhoy0YSP7gj7yzSGGmePvQ3BJAzBWK0DhJJvq9GjENcMs2yjYm5zp8jGG-yvfR6-Umh5O0BmQRxMyKCweMIT61GBDtU4j0ULon_RqqLv1LKM_Gqbsbi_vzhM/s320/One+G+string+Short+of+Crazy.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288374193548668082" border="0" /></a><br />Tell us a little bit about you outside of being an author.<br /><br />I live in the suburbs of one of the greatest cities in the world, Atlanta, GA. I moved here from New York. I am a single mother of a two-year old and I work full time at a local college.<br /><br />What is your earliest writing memory?<br /><br />I can’t remember that far back. But I remember being really transformed through journaling. I started journaling about twenty years ago and I still do it. I don’t write as faithfully as I did twenty years ago, but when I do write it’s usually pages worth. I find journaling very therapeutic. <br /><br />What feelings do you experience once you are satisfied with your completed manuscript(s)?<br /><br />A huge sense of accomplishment and relief, I’m sure fellow writers can relate.<br /><br />In your upcoming release or newly released book, how did you come up with the idea of your main character(s)?<br /><br />My soon to be released novel is a paranormal. I’ve never written a paranormal before and I am very excited at being able to do so. I had the idea years ago, but never explored it. I submitted a synopsis of the story to my editor and she was very interested. Now that I’m writing it, I really love it. There are very little boundaries in paranormals, since you are creating your own little world, the sky is the limit.<br /><br />Tell us a little bit about your work in progress and/or your upcoming release.<br /><br />My upcoming release is tentatively titled, Spiritual Seduction. It’s about a formerly abusive husband who is killed and returns as a ghost. He seduces her into believing that he’s changed, but when she finds out that he’s even more hateful towards her when he’s dead than when he was alive, she tries to escape him. Unknown to her, a colleague of hers is a warrior who destroys ghosts. She ends up falling in love with the warrior. There’s a battle, and the readers have to decide is it a conflict between good and evil, the dead and the undead or simply man versus man over a woman.<br /><br />I’m a big believer that word of mouth creates more sales than advertisements. Let’s say I've never read any of your books before, how would you pitch the idea of your latest release to me?<br /><br />Pick up my novel if you are interested in something that will have you peeking in the darkest corners and reaching for your sweetheart after reading some of the sex scenes. <br /><br />I consider myself a tough critic when reviewing books. What do or would you do when you receive a mediocre or less than average rating from a reviewer or reader?<br /><br />At first it bothered me, but not so much now. I realize that reviews are very subjective and what one person might like another person might not. It’s not the end of the world, and I don’t lose any sleep over bad reviews.<br /><br />What authors influence your writing dreams, goals and aspirations?<br /><br />I admire Zora Neale Hurston for her writing, I can read her stories a million times and never get bored. I love Zane, she’s an awesome businesswoman. If I accomplish only a tenth of what she’s done, I’ll be happy. And I really enjoy any writer who can take me to another world or teach me something new.<br /><br />What books would you recommend on writing?<br /><br />I am embarrassed to say that I haven’t read any books on writing in years. I really enjoy reading articles on writing. I look specifically for articles on character development, plot and dialogue.<br /><br />If you could change one thing you did during your road to publication, what would it be and what would you have done different?<br /><br />There isn’t anything that I would have changed. I look back at it now and realize that it wasn’t that bad. It took me nearly a year to secure my literary agent. Looking back, it really wasn’t that long. I have been fortunate, I respect my agent and I really enjoy working with my editor at Pocket Books.<br /><br />What advice would you give an aspiring author?<br /><br />Keep writing, network, don’t be afraid of rejection or criticism and keep writing.<br /><br />Where can readers learn more about you and your books?<br /><br />They can visit my website at <a href="http://www.desireeday.com/">www.desireeday.com</a>.Jennifer C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12253564132754009574noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5386511270803999247.post-38326291692649065612009-01-09T18:55:00.005-05:002009-01-09T19:06:47.131-05:00Ready To Publish Friday--Overused Words<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.lakelandbonsai.com/images/LogoTree.gif"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 160px; height: 143px;" src="http://www.lakelandbonsai.com/images/LogoTree.gif" alt="" border="0" /></a>Welcome, welcome, welcome to another <span style="font-style: italic;">Ready to Publish Friday</span> article feature found on the web. Overusing words is something writers tend to do. We become pretty fond of certain words and sometimes they creep their way into our stories over and over and over... Then there are some words that despite how we feel about them, we use them because they're easy and readily available. Check out the article to find out which words we tend to abuse. Happy Friday.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span id="dnn_ctr842_dnnTITLE_lblTitle" class="Head" style="font-size:130%;">10 Overused Words in Writing<br /><br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;">David Bowman, Owner and Chief Editor of Precise Edit, wrote this article. (c) Copyright 2008, by Precise Edit</span><br /></div><p><br /></p><p>All words are good words. Some, however, are overused without adding value to what you write. As a result, they reduce the readers’ interest, make text seem redundant, and cause the writer to appear amateurish. </p> <p>We have created a list of 10 overused words, based on the documents we have edited over the last 5 years. We don’t recommend that you remove these words from your writing. Instead, we recommend that you become aware of how often you use them and that you revise your documents to limit their use.</p>Click <a href="http://preciseedit.com/Article10OverusedWords/tabid/215/Default.aspx">HERE</a> for entire article.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5386511270803999247.post-59728463646283755022009-01-06T23:30:00.000-05:002009-01-06T21:18:11.038-05:00Author Leila Jefferson<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Author Leila Jefferson</span>
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMa-gq47xEJ1mepUudbFiEIlNPoqkAVu4dVh5p9wDY7TnS-7Xln5Ci7prB9hBJ_PnIDqk7sJpaPDVOn3ovVx3mTn04pa6Y2u1_NxMVkqpGcdeomQtbEVP1It-rT3xQarlRSN6fXo32j2Q/s1600-h/IMG00111-leila.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMa-gq47xEJ1mepUudbFiEIlNPoqkAVu4dVh5p9wDY7TnS-7Xln5Ci7prB9hBJ_PnIDqk7sJpaPDVOn3ovVx3mTn04pa6Y2u1_NxMVkqpGcdeomQtbEVP1It-rT3xQarlRSN6fXo32j2Q/s320/IMG00111-leila.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288367499826894930" border="0" /></a>
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name="Bibliography"> <w:lsdexception locked="false" priority="39" qformat="true" name="TOC Heading"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:"Cambria Math"; panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:roman; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:-1610611985 1107304683 0 0 159 0;} @font-face {font-family:Calibri; panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:swiss; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:-1610611985 1073750139 0 0 159 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-unhide:no; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} .MsoChpDefault {mso-style-type:export-only; mso-default-props:yes; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.0in 1.0in 1.0in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >Tell us a little bit about you outside of being an author.
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >Outside of being an author, I have a 9-5 that pays the bills, I'm a mother of 4, and I'm also a publisher. I try to stretch my 24 hour days into maybe 36, lol. Actually, the author role is probably my most comforting one. Anything outside of that is pretty hectic where I have to answer to a boss, be a boss, cook dinner, clean house, check homework and anything else that comes my way.
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<br />What is your earliest writing memory?
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<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >The first memory I can think of was when I was in the 5th grade. The whole 5th grade class had to write an essay about what school means to you. To this day, I can't even remember what I wrote, but I remember I was home sick one day. All my friends called me that evening to tell me they called my name over the intercom because I had won first place in the essay contest. I went to school the next day so excited. We had an assembly and I stood in front of the whole school and read my essay and accepted my blue ribbon. I fell in love with the written word at that point.
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<br />What feelings do you experience once you are satisfied with your completed manuscript(s)?
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<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >The feeling is one I can't describe. It's a mixture of accomplishment, with pride, with ecstasy along with a huge exhale. Then comes the nervous feeling, lol. I write and rewrite and rewrite, but I still stay nervous, hoping I came harder than the last time to make people want to read my next work.
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<br />In your upcoming release or newly released book, how did you come up with the idea of your main character(s)?
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<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >This is kind of a hard question. At this point, I'm re releasing my older titles under my publishing company. My latest novel I just completed though is a sequel to He's A Keeper. The main characters were already in place, and everybody that read Keeper wanted to know what happened next, so I began working on the sequel to answer unanswered questions.
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<br />Tell us a little bit about your work in progress and/or your upcoming release.
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<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >Probably the new release would be the anthology I'm releasing under my company. It will be the first official book to represent My Time Publications and it's titled That's The Way Love Goes. It's a collection of seven stories by seven diverse authors, including myself, on relationships and love. It's broken in two parts. The first part is when love goes bad, and it had the stories that don't end so happy. The second part is when love goes good, and you have the happily ever after stories. I'm really excited because every story is different because all the authors have a different voice.
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<br />I’m a big believer that word of mouth creates more sales than advertisements. Let’s say I’ve never read any of your books before, how would you pitch the idea of your latest release to me?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >Pitching myself as an author, I would say I write real life. My characters are relatable to anyone that reads my books. I often put that 'hmm' factor where you're sitting up questioning what your neighbor or coworker may be doing after hours. I mix chick lit with erotica with a little bit of street and bring a story that you will remember.
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<br />I consider myself a tough critic when reviewing books. What do or would you do when you receive a mediocre or less than average rating from a reviewer or reader?
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >I take what they say and see how I can improve my writing. I know everything isn't for everybody, and some of my writing can be a little out there, and sometimes that's why a reviewer/reader didn't like it. There's nothing I can really do about that. But if they felt my characters were weak, storyline didn't make sense of something along that line, then I'd really study what I wrote and work on improving my skills.
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<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >What authors influence your writing dreams, goals and aspirations?
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<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >I've always been a big fan of Eric Jerome and Terry McMillan. I read many other authors, but those two, I will buy whatever they put out. I admire when you can bring a different story and change someone's life. I admire being able to write in different genres and still bring a great story. I love books being made into movies! I hope to achieve that one day.
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<br />What books would you recommend on writing?
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<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >This is probably horrible for me to say, but I haven't read any books on writing. I read a lot, and that's the best teacher for me
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<br />If you could change one thing you did during your road to publication, what would it be and what would you have done different?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >I would have taken my writing seriously a LONG time ago. At first it was just for fun, and I wasn't really pursuing getting published. Today if I could go back, I would have been in the literary world hard when I started writing my first book.
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<br />What advice would you give an aspiring author?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >Study your craft and study the business! I can't stress that enough. A lot of authors get so excited on the promise of that first publishing deal, they usually get the short end of the stick. Also, a lot of authors only care about writing, and that's all they know about. You have to <i>know</i> this business if you plan to have longevity and succeed.
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<br />Where can readers learn more about you and your books?
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >There are a couple different places. <a href="http://www.myspace.com/leilawilliams">www.myspace.com/leilawilliams </a>or <a href="http://www.mytimepublications.com/">www.mytimepublications.com</a> Again, I'm in the process of republishing a few things, so things are still in the beginning stages right now but it's coming together.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></div><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" ></span></div>Jennifer C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12253564132754009574noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5386511270803999247.post-16503160892805091852009-01-01T23:03:00.001-05:002009-01-01T23:03:01.149-05:00Ready To Publish Friday--Who's Got Style?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.lakelandbonsai.com/images/LogoTree.gif"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 160px; height: 143px;" src="http://www.lakelandbonsai.com/images/LogoTree.gif" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">Welcome to another </span><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: normal;">Ready to Publish Friday</span><span style="font-weight: normal;">. In previous weeks we've read articles about inspiration and courage. This weeks article about style comes from everywoman Shon Bacon a.k.a. ChickLitGurrl.</span><br /></strong></p><p style="text-align: center;"><strong><br /></strong></p><p style="text-align: center;"><strong><br /></strong></p><p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Developing Your Writing Style</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Becoming a Lifelong Learner of the Craft of Writing</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>By author, editor, educator Shon Bacon aka ChickLitGurrl™ </strong></p> <p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>If I told you to develop your writing style, would you know what I meant?</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">If your answer is “No,” then this new column of The Write Life for You is…FOR you!</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Here’s a quick definition of style: the way you put together a sentence or group of sentences.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">The problem with figuring out style is there is no one sure way. It’s subjective. Depending on different forms of writing (essays, articles, stories, etc.) and different disciplines (science, art, humanities, etc.), style may differ.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Click <span style="font-size:130%;"><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.apooobooks.com/developing-writing-style-shon-bacon/">HERE</a></span> for the rest of the article.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">HAPPY NEW YEAR</span></span><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5386511270803999247.post-26222399596866283452008-12-30T23:30:00.001-05:002008-12-30T23:30:01.014-05:00Quotes for New Years<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://photobucket.com/images/new%20years" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v286/rewyman/nightowlaletaann/new.gif" alt="New Years Pictures, Images and Photos" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="color: rgb(192, 192, 192);">originally posted by </span><a style="color: rgb(192, 192, 192);" href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v286/rewyman/">rewyman</a><br /></div><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">Below you will find quite a few quotes to think about as you bring in the New Year. These quotes were found at </span><a style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);" href="http://www.quotegarden.com/new-year.html">The Quote Garden</a><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">. If you want to read more of these lovely quotes, head over to the site.</span><br /><br />Youth is when you're allowed to stay up late on New Year's Eve. Middle age is when you're forced to. ~Bill Vaughn<br /><br /><br />An optimist stays up until midnight to see the new year in. A pessimist stays up to make sure the old year leaves. ~Bill Vaughan<br /><br /><br />Many people look forward to the new year for a new start on old habits. ~Author Unknown<br /><br /><br />A New Year's resolution is something that goes in one year and out the other. ~Author Unknown<br /><br /><br />Be always at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors, and let each new year find you a better man. ~Benjamin Franklin<br /><br /><br />No one ever regarded the First of January with indifference. It is that from which all date their time, and count upon what is left. It is the nativity of our common Adam. ~Charles Lamb<br /><br /><br />New Year's Day is every man's birthday. ~Charles Lamb<br /><br /><br />Never tell your resolution beforehand, or it's twice as onerous a duty. ~John Selden<br /><br /><br />Year's end is neither an end nor a beginning but a going on, with all the wisdom that experience can instill in us. ~Hal Borland<br /><br /><br />The merry year is born<br />Like the bright berry from the naked thorn.<br />~Hartley Coleridge<br /><br /><br />New Year's eve is like every other night; there is no pause in the march of the universe, no breathless moment of silence among created things that the passage of another twelve months may be noted; and yet no man has quite the same thoughts this evening that come with the coming of darkness on other nights. ~Hamilton Wright Mabie<br /><br /><br />The Old Year has gone. Let the dead past bury its own dead. The New Year has taken possession of the clock of time. All hail the duties and possibilities of the coming twelve months! ~Edward Payson Powell<br /><br /><br />Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right. ~Oprah Winfrey<br /><br /><br />Ring out the old, ring in the new,<br />Ring, happy bells, across the snow:<br />The year is going, let him go;<br />Ring out the false, ring in the true.<br />~Alfred, Lord Tennyson, 1850<br /><br /><br />The proper behavior all through the holiday season is to be drunk. This drunkenness culminates on New Year's Eve, when you get so drunk you kiss the person you're married to. ~P.J. O'Rourke<br /><br /><br />Every man should be born again on the first day of January. Start with a fresh page. Take up one hole more in the buckle if necessary, or let down one, according to circumstances; but on the first of January let every man gird himself once more, with his face to the front, and take no interest in the things that were and are past. ~Henry Ward Beecher<br /><br /><br />New Year's Day: Now is the accepted time to make your regular annual good resolutions. Next week you can begin paving hell with them as usual. ~Mark Twain<br /><br /><br />The new year begins in a snow-storm of white vows. ~George William Curtis<br /><br /><br />For last year's words belong to last year's language<br />And next year's words await another voice.<br />And to make an end is to make a beginning.<br />~T.S. Eliot, "Little Gidding"<br /><br /><br />We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called Opportunity and its first chapter is New Year's Day. ~Edith Lovejoy Pierce<br /><br /><br />Yesterday, everybody smoked his last cigar, took his last drink and swore his last oath. Today, we are a pious and exemplary community. Thirty days from now, we shall have cast our reformation to the winds and gone to cutting our ancient shortcomings considerably shorter than ever. ~Mark TwainJennifer C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12253564132754009574noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5386511270803999247.post-5860126273130960382008-12-23T23:30:00.000-05:002008-12-23T23:30:00.647-05:00Christmas Story<h1 style="text-align: center;">A Visit from St. Nicholas</h1><div> </div><h3 style="text-align: center;"><br /></h3><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://photobucket.com/images/christmas" target="_blank"><img src="http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc9/grandmayoall/christmas/debbie1114merrychristma32.gif" border="0" alt="christmas candle Pictures, Images and Photos" /></a><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">originally posted by</span><a style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);" href="http://s219.photobucket.com/albums/cc9/grandmayoall/"> grandmayoall</a></div><h3 style="text-align: center;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: center;">Attributed to Clement Clarke Moore</h3><div style="text-align: center;"><br /> 'Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house<br /> Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse;<br /> The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,<br /> In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there;<br /> The children were nestled all snug in their beds,<br /> While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads;<br /> And mamma in her 'kerchief, and I in my cap,<br /> Had just settled our brains for a long winter's nap,<br /> When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,<br /> I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.<br /> Away to the window I flew like a flash,<br /> Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.<br /> The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow<br /> Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below,<br /> When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,<br /> But a miniature sleigh, and eight tiny reindeer,<br /> With a little old driver, so lively and quick,<br /> I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick.<br /> More rapid than eagles his coursers they came,<br /> And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name;<br /> "Now, Dasher! now, Dancer! now, Prancer and Vixen!<br /> On, Comet! on, Cupid! on, Donder and Blitzen!<br /> To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall!<br /> Now dash away! dash away! dash away all!"<br /> As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly,<br /> When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky;<br /> So up to the house-top the coursers they flew,<br /> With the sleigh full of Toys, and St. Nicholas too.<br /> And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof<br /> The prancing and pawing of each little hoof.<br /> As I drew in my head, and was turning around,<br /> Down the chimney St. Nicholas came with a bound.<br /> He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot,<br /> And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot;<br /> A bundle of Toys he had flung on his back,<br /> And he looked like a peddler just opening his pack.<br /> His eyes -- how they twinkled! his dimples how merry!<br /> His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!<br /> His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow<br /> And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow;<br /> The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth,<br /> And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath;<br /> He had a broad face and a little round belly,<br /> That shook when he laughed, like a bowlful of jelly.<br /> He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf,<br /> And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself;<br /> A wink of his eye and a twist of his head,<br /> Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread;<br /> He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work,<br /> And filled all the stockings; then turned with a jerk,<br /> And laying his finger aside of his nose,<br /> And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose;<br /> He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle,<br /> And away they all flew like the down of a thistle,<br /> But I heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight,<br /> "Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night."<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">originally posted on: </span><a style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);" href="http://urbanlegends.about.com/library/bl_visit_from_st_nicholas.htm">http://urbanlegends.about.com/library/bl_visit_from_st_nicholas.htm</a><br /> </div>Jennifer C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12253564132754009574noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5386511270803999247.post-87576513736459778072008-12-18T23:02:00.001-05:002008-12-18T23:02:01.114-05:00Ready To Publish Friday - Courage<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.lakelandbonsai.com/images/LogoTree.gif"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 160px; height: 143px;" src="http://www.lakelandbonsai.com/images/LogoTree.gif" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />Welcome to <span style="font-style: italic;">Ready To Publish Fridays</span>!<br /><br />Last week we showcased an article about inspiration and we hope you found it helpful in someway. This week we're presenting an article about courage. How does being courageous relate to being ready to publish and writing in general? Here's a little teaser, but for a complete answer click the link.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Developing a Thick Skin: How To Accept Criticism<br />by Betty L. Meshack<br /></div><blockquote><span style="font-family:Arial;">I'm sure your mom, like mine, taught you, "If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all." Unfortunately, during childhood, other children did not have the benefit of my mother's advice, or of her trusty and quicker-than-lightning index finger and thumb which, painfully and with regularity, enforced her edicts on the fleshy part of my upper arms.<br /><br />So when the inevitable evaluations by other children of, inter alia, my hair, my clothes, my size, my speech patterns, and my grades were "thumbs down," and I came running to her for solace, her advice was, "Stick and stones may break your bones, but words will never hurt you. Let it roll down your back as if you never heard it. You are all right. You're my baby." Great advice to instill a modicum of self-esteem in a little girl from South Central, right? Sure it was, although the scar tissue from the barbs exists to this day; echoes and reverberations from the teasing and rejection are often replayed mentally at the most inopportune times.<br /><br />Click here ===>> <a href="http://fmwriters.com/Visionback/Vision24/developingthickskin.htm">Developing Thick Skin</a><br /><p></p></span></blockquote><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 200%; font-family: georgia;"> </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5386511270803999247.post-40479761650821305312008-12-16T23:30:00.007-05:002008-12-16T23:30:00.453-05:00Author Francis Ray<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:180%;">Author Francis Ray</span></span><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMjkFK4sXOtopZUK3I1La4E80w7rTc9UazKOPvuJ0vZcZxPN6FujWFKRAcXmmBCUa3_nneG4E663D6fQ7yjEiNxwII46_uhZuf7rK1oIdujFbTakVBTkgfe3vBUvvPJTXWeCpuRVXpF4Q/s1600-h/fr.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 167px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMjkFK4sXOtopZUK3I1La4E80w7rTc9UazKOPvuJ0vZcZxPN6FujWFKRAcXmmBCUa3_nneG4E663D6fQ7yjEiNxwII46_uhZuf7rK1oIdujFbTakVBTkgfe3vBUvvPJTXWeCpuRVXpF4Q/s320/fr.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5276330303676775682" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><br /></span></div><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;font-size:100%;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" > <div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Francis Ray is a native Texan and lives in Dallas. A graduate of Texas Woman's University, she is a School Nurse Practitioner with the Dallas Independent School District. In 1999 and 2000 she was nominated for Texas Woman's University Distinguished Alumni Award.<br /></div> <br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-weight: bold;">To check out the rest of Francis' bio, watch trailers, and enter contests head over to her website. You can find her web address at the end of the interview.</span><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tell us a little bit about you outside of being an author.</span></div></div></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;font-size:100%;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><div> </div> <div>I'm a School Nurse Practitioner with a large independent school district in Texas. I have great satisfaction in what I do, but there are also times when situations occur that I wish I could do more in helping children. However, when I write I am the mistress of my universe and can punish evil and protect those unable to protect themselves. The good guys will always win and love will always triumph.<br /><br /></div> <div> </div> </span></span></span></span><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;font-size:100%;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">What is your earliest writing memory?</span><br /></div><br /></div> <div>My earliest writing memory was a freshman paper. The teacher and my classmates couldn't say enough good things about my love story. Even then I always wanted happy endings. I guess because one of the books I read over and over was <u><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1228490424_0">Grimm's Fairy Tales</span></u>.</div> </span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;font-size:100%;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><div> </div> </span></span></span></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;font-size:100%;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><div style="font-weight: bold;">What feelings do you experience once you are satisfied with your completed<br /></div></span></span></span></span><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;font-size:100%;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><div style="font-weight: bold;">manuscript(s)?</div></span></span></span></span></div><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;font-size:100%;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><div>My feelings once finished with the completed manuscript run the gamut from being thankful to God, grateful that I was able to do it again, to scared that readers will hate the book. Somehow I don't think my reactions will ever change.</div> <div> </div> <div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">In your upcoming release or newly released book, how did you come up with the idea of your main </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">character(s)?</span><br /></div><br /></div> <div>I write series in romance and mainstream so the characters are often taken from past books. In the romance series, Grayson Friends, Book One is <strong>THE WAY YOU LOVE ME</strong>. I wanted to explore what happens when a hard-edged man meets a vulnerable woman. In <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1228490424_1">The Invincible</span> Women series, my mainstreams, I wanted an older heroine. There has been so much on menopause and <span style="border-bottom: 1px dashed rgb(0, 102, 204); cursor: pointer;" class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1228490424_2">older women dating younger men</span> that I knew I wanted to incorporate that in <strong>NOT EVEN IF YOU BEGGED</strong>. </div></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;font-size:100%;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" > <div> </div> </span></span></span></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;font-size:100%;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><div style="font-weight: bold;">Tell us a little bit about your work in progress and/or your upcoming release.</div></span></span></span></span></div><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;font-size:100%;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><div>I recently finished <strong>AND MISTRESS MAKES THREE</strong>, my 5th book for the Invincible Women series. I'm taking a week off to get my office in order, read, and then its back to writing the next mainstream. August 2008 saw the release of <strong>THE WAY YOU LOVE ME</strong>, Book One of the new Grayson Friends series. November 4, 2008 is the reissue of <strong>UNTIL THERE WAS YOU</strong>, Book One of the Graysons of New Mexico series. Book Two of the Grayson Friends series, <strong>NOBODY BUT YOU</strong>, is due out <span style="border-bottom: 1px dashed rgb(0, 102, 204); cursor: pointer;" class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1228490424_3">March 2009</span>.<br /><br /></div> <div> </div> </span></span></span></span><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;font-size:100%;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">I'm a big believer that word of mouth creates more sales than advertisements. Let's say I've never read any of your books before, how would you pitch the idea of your latest release to me?</span><br /></div><br /></div> <div> </div> <div>A sexy, page turning romance. Shane Elliott, gorgeous and dangerous, has never met a woman he couldn't forget - until Paige Albright. Passion collides with duty when Shane is hired to protect the beautiful socialite in <strong>THE WAY YOU LOVE ME</strong>.</div> </span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;font-size:100%;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" > <div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">I consider myself a tough critic when reviewing books. What do or would you do when you receive a mediocre or less than average rating from a reviewer or reader?</span><br /></div><br /></div> <div>Frankly, I'm not very good at shrugging off criticism, which is one reason I usually let my daughter read the reviews first. However, if it's constructive, I try to learn from it. Despite having written over 36 books I'm still learning and not ashamed to admit I can miss the mark. Good, caring readers and fans want you to write the stories that will entertain and enlighten. They want you to succeed. So, when it's constructive, I really look at the book again and try to see if the point was valid.</div></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;font-size:100%;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" > <div> </div> </span></span></span></span><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;font-size:100%;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">What authors influence your writing dreams, goals and aspirations?</span><br /></div><br /></div> <div>Katherine Woodiwiss introduced me to romance and made me want to write romance. But it was <span style="border-bottom: 1px dashed rgb(0, 102, 204); cursor: pointer;" class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1228490424_4">Elizabeth Lowell</span> and <span style="border-bottom: 1px dashed rgb(0, 102, 204); cursor: pointer;" class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1228490424_5">Nora Roberts</span> who challenged me to write with passion and purpose. E. Lowell wrote fantastic hurting-healing romance books. N. Roberts has superb characters. They're two totally different writers, both successful, both caring and giving women. They taught me there is no one way to write a good book. The key is writing what you love. Don't compare yourself to anyone. A writer's <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1228490424_6">life is a journey</span>, some of us will reach our goals before others. The thing is to enjoy the journey. </div></span></span></span></span><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;font-size:100%;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">What books would you recommend on writing?</span><br /></div><br /></div> <div><u>Techniques of the Selling Writer</u> by Dwight Swain, <u>The Synonym Finder</u> by J.I. Rodale, and <u>What's What</u> edited by Reginald Bragonier, Jr. and David Fisher.</div> </span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;font-size:100%;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><div> </div> </span></span></span></span><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;font-size:100%;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">If you could change one thing you did during your road to publication, what would it be and what would you have done different?</span><br /></div><br /></div> <div>If I could change one thing it would be that I wouldn't have let rejections stop me from writing. I wasted so much time. Instead of it taking 5 years to publish that first short story, perhaps it would have taken only 3 or perhaps the 5 years is the way it was supposed to be.</div> </span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;font-family:Arial;font-size:100%;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><div>What advice would you give an aspiring author?</div></span></span></span></span></div><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;font-size:100%;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><div>Study the market, read in cross-genres, don't compare yourself to other writers, and always be gracious.<br /><br /></div> <div> </div> </span></span></span></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;font-size:100%;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><div style="font-weight: bold;">Where can readers learn more about you and your books? </div></span></span></span></span></div><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;font-size:100%;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><div>Readers can visit my web site at <a name="SAWARN1d5hj84" id="SAWARN1d5hj84" original_name="" original_id="" real_href="http://www.francisray.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.blogger.com/www.francisray.com"><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1228490424_7">www.francisray.com</span></a>. To read the online only FREE story, <strong>DARE TO</strong> <strong>LOVE</strong>, that bridges the Graysons of New Mexico to Grayson Friends they can visit <a name="SAWARN1d5hj84" id="SAWARN1d5hj84" original_name="" original_id="" real_href="http://www.the-blackbox.com/authors/francis_ray.htm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.the-blackbox.com/authors/francis_ray.htm%20."><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1228490424_8">http://www.the-blackbox.com/authors/francis_ray.htm</span></a><a href="http://www.the-blackbox.com/authors/francis_ray.htm%20."> .</a></div></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><br /></span><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;font-size:100%;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><div><span family="SANSSERIF" style="font-family:Arial;"><span style="border-bottom: 1px dashed rgb(0, 102, 204); cursor: pointer;" class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1228490424_9">readersoffrancisray@yahoogroups.com</span></span></div></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><div><a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.myspace.com/francisray"><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;font-size:100%;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span family="SANSSERIF" style="font-family:Arial;"></span></span></span></span></a><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;font-size:100%;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span family="SANSSERIF" style="font-family:Arial;"><a name="SAWARN1d5hj84" id="SAWARN1d5hj84" original_name="" original_id="" real_href="http://myspace.com/francisray" target="_blank"><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1228490424_10"><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" >www.myspace.com/francisray</span></span></a></span></span></span></span></div><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;font-size:100%;" ><br /><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><div><span family="SANSSERIF" style="font-family:Arial;"><b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Not-Even-If-You-Begged/dp/0312948174/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1228490766&sr=1-9">NOT EVEN IF YOU BEGGED</a> </b>- Jan 22, 2008 - Mainstream</span></div></span></span></span></span><br /><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><div><span family="SANSSERIF" style="font-family:Arial;"><b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Way-You-Love-Me-Grayson/dp/0312946848/ref=pd_sim_b_4">THE WAY YOU LOVE ME</a> - </b>Shane's story - Grayson Friends -September 2008</span></div></span></span></span></span><br /><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><div><span family="SANSSERIF" style="font-family:Arial;"><b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Until-There-Was-You-Grayson/dp/0312944187/ref=pd_sim_b_2">UNTIL THERE WAS YOU</a> - </b>Book 1 - Reissue - A Grayson Romance - December 2008</span></div></span></span></span></span><br /><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><div><span family="SANSSERIF" style="font-family:Arial;"><b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Nobody-But-You-Grayson-Friends/dp/0312946856/ref=pd_sim_b_23">NOBODY BUT YOU</a> </b>- Cameron's story - Grayson Friends - <span style="border-bottom: 1px dashed rgb(0, 102, 204); background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; cursor: pointer; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;" class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1228490424_11">April 2009</span></span></div></span></span></span></span><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">Thank you Francis for taking the time out of your busy schedule to share with us.</span></span><br /></div></div><span id="role_document" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><br /><br /></span></div>Jennifer C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12253564132754009574noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5386511270803999247.post-19798083594321509332008-12-11T23:00:00.001-05:002008-12-11T23:00:00.849-05:00New to Ready to Publish Fridays<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.lakelandbonsai.com/images/LogoTree.gif"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 160px; height: 143px;" src="http://www.lakelandbonsai.com/images/LogoTree.gif" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wednesdays & Fridays Blog</span> would like to take <span style="font-style: italic;">Ready to Publish Fridays</span> in a new direction. Thanks to all the authors who have thus far graced our pages and thanks to the many readers who continue to stop by to enjoy the conversations.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Ready to Publish Fridays</span> will be featuring articles, essays, and resources pertaining to writing. <br /><br />Our first selection hits on a very important element in writing.<br /><br /><br />When we think of the process of writing, many times we neglect to think about the inspiration that most must have to begin creating something. Some of us are lucky enough to be able to find inspiration in anything. Then there are those of us that seem to lose the ability to feel inspired. And we lose it for a lengthy period of time.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Touching Ones Soul: The Ultimate Inspiration For a Writer</span> by Edward B. Toupin talks about why people write and I'm sure there is something in it that every writer can benefit from.<br /><br />Here's an excerpt:<br /><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><tt><span style="font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica;"><br /></span></tt></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><tt><span style="font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica;"> </span></tt></span><blockquote style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><tt><span style="font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica;">From smoke and dirt to pollution and oil, it is amazing how much gunk</span></tt></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><tt><span style="font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica;"> can collect on a window over time. I sit here in my office looking out</span></tt></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><tt><span style="font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica;"> the window that appears to look the same as it did when it was new, but</span></tt></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><tt><span style="font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica;"> wondering why it was always a gray overcast outside. I was just used to</span></tt></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><tt><span style="font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica;"> the slow collection of crud so I never really noticed how opaque the</span></tt></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><tt><span style="font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica;"> window was becoming. It took a lot of cleaner, four rags, and a lot of</span></tt></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><tt><span style="font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica;"> elbow grease to make the window acceptably transparent again, but it'll</span></tt></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><tt><span style="font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica;"> never be the same as it was when it was new.</span></tt></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><tt><span style="font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica;"> </span></tt></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><tt><span style="font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica;"> Just as with the window, from birth, we all collect some level of gunk</span></tt></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><tt><span style="font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica;"> on our souls. This gunk consists of misinformation, prejudices,</span></tt></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><tt><span style="font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica;"> conflict, trauma, and myriad other experiences that layer over our</span></tt></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><tt><span style="font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica;"> creative insides. These layers slowly change the way we see our world</span></tt></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><tt><span style="font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica;"> by creating an opaque film over our soul's eye. With that we begin to</span></tt></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><tt><span style="font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica;"> see the world in a way that we assume that it is and not necessarily in</span></tt></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><tt><span style="font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica;"> a way that it truly exists. Our reality becomes tainted preventing us</span></tt></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><tt><span style="font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica;"> from perusing and becoming everything that we could possibly become.</span></tt></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><tt><span style="font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica;"> However, somehow we need to clean off that gunk to obtain a clear view</span></tt></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><tt><span style="font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica;"> of life.<br /><br /><br />To read the entire article, click <a href="http://www.anthologiesonline.com/Articles/Inspiration%20for%20a%20Writer.htm">HERE</a><br /></span></tt></span></blockquote><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><tt><span style="font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica;"></span></tt></span><br /></div><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><tt><span style="font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica;"> <span style="color: rgb(255, 153, 51);"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Enjoy!</span><br /></span></span></tt></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1