Most people love Saturdays. For some reason I find them a pain in the butt. The roads are too packed. The grocery is the same. Going out for lunch is like trying to find space in a sardine can. So today I let the hubby go off by himself. He had to go qualify for his gun permit, and I figure that would be a bore, sitting around waiting for him to shoot up a box of ammo at paper targets.
So what do I do with a Saturday to myself? Well, besides sitting here talking to a computer screen, I mean. I could use the time to do some straightening I've been putting off. I need to straighten the guest bedroom. I'm not sure why but that room seems to be a dumping point. There are stacks of magazines I just couldn't bring myself to toss out, but now I'm going to. I mean, why do I need copies of year-old Romantic Times? For seven year-old copies of Writer's Digest? I guess I thought I'd forget what I learned from them one day. But I've readied myself for putting them out with the trash a little at a time. If I put them all out at once the poor trash man would have a stroke.
Next? Old paperbacks. Okay, some of them I will keep until the day I die and then Hubby can get rid of them. But some I'll never read again. Some I have no idea why I hung onto them for so long. Some are marked up beyond reading. Why? I was trying to learn from others. How they handled emotions, conflict, perfect endings, perfect beginnings. And besides, if I get rid of the paperbacks, I'll have room for more!! OMG! I have this rack of old 8-track tapes. I so wish I knew how I could copy them to CDs. But it's time to get rid of them too, though I still have a 8-track player. Would you believe some of them are still wrapped? Not opened, never played.
Okay, the mess isn't going to straighten itself, so I'll go now. Pray for me.
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Kid Friendly Recipe
I missed the Wednesday Recipe update because I was right on top of a deadline. Someone e-mailed me and asked for the kid friendly recipe, so here it is.
Crispy Chocolate Mounds
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 cup peanut butter chips
1 cup crisp rice cereal
1/2 cup raisins
1/2 cup salted peanuts
In a microwave melt chocolate and peanut butter chips; stir until smooth. Stir in the cereal, raisins and peanuts. Drop by tablespoons onto waxed paper-lined baking sheets. Refrigerate for 15 minutes or until set. Yield: About 2 dozen
Crispy Chocolate Mounds
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 cup peanut butter chips
1 cup crisp rice cereal
1/2 cup raisins
1/2 cup salted peanuts
In a microwave melt chocolate and peanut butter chips; stir until smooth. Stir in the cereal, raisins and peanuts. Drop by tablespoons onto waxed paper-lined baking sheets. Refrigerate for 15 minutes or until set. Yield: About 2 dozen
Sunday, December 21, 2008
If I Were Filthy Rich
I'd have a face lift.
I'd have a full body lift.
I'd have a boob reduction.
I'd have Lasik Surgery.
But, alas, I'm not rich. So I guess I'll just sag and feel my way around.
I'd have a full body lift.
I'd have a boob reduction.
I'd have Lasik Surgery.
But, alas, I'm not rich. So I guess I'll just sag and feel my way around.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Recipe Wednesday Again
Recipe Wednesday again. This one is a bit time consuming but so much worth the effort. They make a great Christmas gift.
Homemade Snickers
1 cup milk chocolate chips
¼ cup butterscotch chips
¼ cup creamy peanut butter
Filling
¼ cut butter
1 cup sugar
¼ cup evaporated milk
1-1/2 cups marshmallow crème
¼ cup creamy peanut butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1-1/2 cups chopped salted peanuts
Caramel layer
1 package (14 0z) caramels
¼ cup heavy whipping cream
Icing:
1 cup milk chocolate chips
¼ cup butterscotch chips
¼ cup creamy peanut butter
Line a 13 in. x 9 in. pan with foil; butter the foil and set aside. Combine the first three ingredients in a small saucepan; stir over low heat until melted and smooth. Spread into prepared pan. Chill until set.
For filling: Melt the butter in a heavy saucepan over medium heat. Add sugar and milk; bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, boil and stir for 5 minutes. Remove from the heat; stir in marshmallow crème, peanut butter and vanilla. Add peanuts. Spread over first layer. Chill until set. Combine caramels and cream in a saucepan; stir over low heat until melted and smooth. Cook and stir 4 minutes longer. Spread over filling. Chill until set.
In a saucepan, combine icing ingredients; stir over low heat until melted and smooth. Pour over the caramel layer. Chill for at least 4 hours. Remove from the refrigerator 20 minutes before cutting. Using the foil, lift candy out of pan; cut into 1-in. squares. Yield: about 8 dozen.
Next week a recipe you can make with the kids.
Homemade Snickers
1 cup milk chocolate chips
¼ cup butterscotch chips
¼ cup creamy peanut butter
Filling
¼ cut butter
1 cup sugar
¼ cup evaporated milk
1-1/2 cups marshmallow crème
¼ cup creamy peanut butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1-1/2 cups chopped salted peanuts
Caramel layer
1 package (14 0z) caramels
¼ cup heavy whipping cream
Icing:
1 cup milk chocolate chips
¼ cup butterscotch chips
¼ cup creamy peanut butter
Line a 13 in. x 9 in. pan with foil; butter the foil and set aside. Combine the first three ingredients in a small saucepan; stir over low heat until melted and smooth. Spread into prepared pan. Chill until set.
For filling: Melt the butter in a heavy saucepan over medium heat. Add sugar and milk; bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, boil and stir for 5 minutes. Remove from the heat; stir in marshmallow crème, peanut butter and vanilla. Add peanuts. Spread over first layer. Chill until set. Combine caramels and cream in a saucepan; stir over low heat until melted and smooth. Cook and stir 4 minutes longer. Spread over filling. Chill until set.
In a saucepan, combine icing ingredients; stir over low heat until melted and smooth. Pour over the caramel layer. Chill for at least 4 hours. Remove from the refrigerator 20 minutes before cutting. Using the foil, lift candy out of pan; cut into 1-in. squares. Yield: about 8 dozen.
Next week a recipe you can make with the kids.
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Saturdays
Life slows down on Saturday. It's not a scheduled writing day. Hubby and I usually go out to lunch at some local can't-live-without seafood restaurant. New Orleans has more than it's share of them. This time we went to Bozo's. Yup, that really is the name of it. They are known all over for their gumbo. Even had a big write up in Bon Appite Magazine. They are also known for their method of frying their seafood. Unlike most places the owner fries all orders in a skillet Each order gets fresh oil, no old oil that's been sitting in the fryer for God only knows how long. Anyway, the lunch was great, as it always is.
We drove all over the city looking for a certain sporting goods store so my hubby could pick up something he needed to renew his gun permit. That took us about an hour. Then we went to Borders. I had a list of six to be read books, figuring I'd be able to find at least one. Nope. Not a single one. So I went in search of Heather Graham's latest. Nope. I went in search of Holly Jacob's new book. Again, no luck. They complain of book sales being down, well, it would help a hell of a lot if you had the books people are searching for. Don't you think?
I came home with a new book light and no book to read. So here I sit blogging. Poor you.
We drove all over the city looking for a certain sporting goods store so my hubby could pick up something he needed to renew his gun permit. That took us about an hour. Then we went to Borders. I had a list of six to be read books, figuring I'd be able to find at least one. Nope. Not a single one. So I went in search of Heather Graham's latest. Nope. I went in search of Holly Jacob's new book. Again, no luck. They complain of book sales being down, well, it would help a hell of a lot if you had the books people are searching for. Don't you think?
I came home with a new book light and no book to read. So here I sit blogging. Poor you.
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Goals for 2009
Let's say your books are normally around 92,000 words. Do you realize if you write 1,096 words a day, 5 days a week, you could write 3 books a year. That comes out to a little over 4 pages a day.
739 words a day, 3 pages, 5 days a week, would give you 2 books a year.
369 words a day, about 1 1/2 pages, 5 days a week would result in one book a year.
Okay. Granted, some of us don't write every single day. Sometimes the words just won't come. And we have to have some days for edits. Or vacation time. But if as little as 5 pages a day will give you three books, can't you write often enough to put out one book a year?
My goals for 2009 are to write two books. Edit both. Have time for a couple of vacations. Still having time to spend with my hubby.
We'll see how well I do.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Recipe Wednesday
Recipe Wednesday
Every Wednesday (when I'm not snowed under or forget) I'm going to post a recipe. For those of you who don't know me all that well, I'm one hell of a good cook. I'm pretty well known around my circles as the candy lady, so I'll start there and with an easy one.
Creole Pralines
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup dark (or light) brown sugar
1 stick butter (1/4 pound) do not use margarine
1 cup whole milk
2 tablespoons corn syrup
4 cups pecan halves
Put all ingredients, except pecans, into a 3 quart saucepan, and cook for about 20 minutes, after boiling starts. Stir occasionally. Add the pecans and cook the mixture until the liquid forms a soft ball when a little is dropped into cold water. Stir well then drop by spoonful on waxed paper. Place a few sheets of newspaper beneath the waxed paper. Allow to harden then wrap in foil or paper.
Next Wednesday: Homemade Snicker Bars
Every Wednesday (when I'm not snowed under or forget) I'm going to post a recipe. For those of you who don't know me all that well, I'm one hell of a good cook. I'm pretty well known around my circles as the candy lady, so I'll start there and with an easy one.
Creole Pralines
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup dark (or light) brown sugar
1 stick butter (1/4 pound) do not use margarine
1 cup whole milk
2 tablespoons corn syrup
4 cups pecan halves
Put all ingredients, except pecans, into a 3 quart saucepan, and cook for about 20 minutes, after boiling starts. Stir occasionally. Add the pecans and cook the mixture until the liquid forms a soft ball when a little is dropped into cold water. Stir well then drop by spoonful on waxed paper. Place a few sheets of newspaper beneath the waxed paper. Allow to harden then wrap in foil or paper.
Next Wednesday: Homemade Snicker Bars
Monday, December 1, 2008
Why?
Why is it that before you get published you write every chance you get. After, you stare at the blank page in total fear that every word you write will suck.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Coffee Time Romance Chat
On Coffee Time Romance & More.
http://www.coffeetimeromance.com/ctr_chat.htm
Authors and editor of Sapphire Blue Publishing will be there to answer your questions or just talk about their books. Come join us. Tonight 9 pm eastern
Char
http://www.coffeetimeromance.com/ctr_chat.htm
Authors and editor of Sapphire Blue Publishing will be there to answer your questions or just talk about their books. Come join us. Tonight 9 pm eastern
Char
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Sherryl Woods/another link
If you can't get into the room I linked in last post, try this one.
www.//at.com/thewriteway
www.//at.com/thewriteway
Sherryl Woods Meet and Greet
Please join me in Author,Author! On Tuesday night November 18 at 8 PM Eastern. Our guest will be best selling author, Sherryl Woods. located in the Arts and Entertainment - Writing Workshop
Sherryl Woods - Home Page
Sherryl Woods - Home Page
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Today/Yesterday
It's Thursday. Nothing special. I had a doctor's appointment this morning at 11:20. I got there at 10:50. Saw the doctor at 12:30. Got out of there around 1:00. Went out for lunch. I normally don't. We've got plenty of food here at home. But, I did it anyway. Had a roast beef po-boy, dressed. For those of you Yankees out there, dressed means it has lettuce tomatoes, pickles and mayo. Oh, and gravy. It's one of those kinds of sandwiches that we here in New Orleans call a 10 napkiner. Messy but, oh, so good. I came home and placed butt in chair, started working on fixing the things my editor pointed out in Ghost Dance, and changing them in Bone Dance. That's been my day so far. Boring huh?
Now, yesterday...Richard said no work. He took me to the casinos on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. We went to the Grand first. I found a slot machine I'd never seen before and decided to check it out. We had a few dollars in free play, plus I put a twenty in. Within ten minutes or so I hit something, I'm still now sure what. But the wheels kept spinning and stopping. Every time they stopped I got more points. It did this about ten times. I ended up winning close to $400. I hit the cash out button and told Richard, I'm ready to go home. LOLWe left the Grand and went to the Island View. We also had free play money there. I took my free play ticket and went my way after we agreed on a spot to meet later on. I went in search of the Wheel of Fortune slots but they were gone. Some new kind of machine were in their place. I didn't like the looks of them, so I went in search of something else to play.I saw another new slot and sat down only to discover it was a nickle machine. But I played it for a while anyway. I won $100. And on a nickle machine that is the jackpot. LOLRichard found me at the machine and said it was time to go grab some lunch.The buffet at the Island View is to die for. And after I'd ate everything in sight, I was in fear of my imminent demise. They had boiled shrimp so huge six of them nearly covered the plate. They had crab legs, onion rings, Chinese food, Italian food, a carving station with a beautiful roast or turkey...Oh...and the desert island was nearly my undoing.
I'm starting my diet in the morning. No. Really. The doctor said do it or he was going to send me to a nutritionist weekly. Gads, why can't doctors just say, look it's your life. This is what you need to do, but I'm not going to harp?
Now, yesterday...Richard said no work. He took me to the casinos on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. We went to the Grand first. I found a slot machine I'd never seen before and decided to check it out. We had a few dollars in free play, plus I put a twenty in. Within ten minutes or so I hit something, I'm still now sure what. But the wheels kept spinning and stopping. Every time they stopped I got more points. It did this about ten times. I ended up winning close to $400. I hit the cash out button and told Richard, I'm ready to go home. LOLWe left the Grand and went to the Island View. We also had free play money there. I took my free play ticket and went my way after we agreed on a spot to meet later on. I went in search of the Wheel of Fortune slots but they were gone. Some new kind of machine were in their place. I didn't like the looks of them, so I went in search of something else to play.I saw another new slot and sat down only to discover it was a nickle machine. But I played it for a while anyway. I won $100. And on a nickle machine that is the jackpot. LOLRichard found me at the machine and said it was time to go grab some lunch.The buffet at the Island View is to die for. And after I'd ate everything in sight, I was in fear of my imminent demise. They had boiled shrimp so huge six of them nearly covered the plate. They had crab legs, onion rings, Chinese food, Italian food, a carving station with a beautiful roast or turkey...Oh...and the desert island was nearly my undoing.
I'm starting my diet in the morning. No. Really. The doctor said do it or he was going to send me to a nutritionist weekly. Gads, why can't doctors just say, look it's your life. This is what you need to do, but I'm not going to harp?
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
It's Out!!
www.sapphirebluepublishing.com has released my baby out into the world.
Fugue Macabre: Ghost Dance
Blurb:
Dr. Tabatha Gray doesn’t have a particular fondness for the dead, but the dead have a desperate affinity for her. Tabatha is a necromancer who can not only resurrect the dead, but hear the souls of the recently departed. This ability she has always considered a curse may be the only thing that can save her life and those of her friends.
After being shunned and banished to a boarding school by her mother, Tabatha spent years denying who and what she is before retuning home to New Orleans to face her personal demons. Almost immediately, she’s threatened by the radical group, Guardians Against Paranormal Sinners, who want her and anyone like her dead. She joins forces with an unlikely pair of friends--a firestarter and a shapeshifter--to fight the deadly organization.
Detective Derek Bainbridge tries to ignore the instant connection he feels with this stranger and possibly dangerous necromancer, but he instinctively knows Tabatha is the only person who can help him solve a string of brutal child killings.
Family secrets, lies and treachery all combine to make Tabatha’s efforts harder as she tries to save the last victim.
Sniff, sniff. Isn't she beautiful? ;o)
Fugue Macabre: Ghost Dance
Blurb:
Dr. Tabatha Gray doesn’t have a particular fondness for the dead, but the dead have a desperate affinity for her. Tabatha is a necromancer who can not only resurrect the dead, but hear the souls of the recently departed. This ability she has always considered a curse may be the only thing that can save her life and those of her friends.
After being shunned and banished to a boarding school by her mother, Tabatha spent years denying who and what she is before retuning home to New Orleans to face her personal demons. Almost immediately, she’s threatened by the radical group, Guardians Against Paranormal Sinners, who want her and anyone like her dead. She joins forces with an unlikely pair of friends--a firestarter and a shapeshifter--to fight the deadly organization.
Detective Derek Bainbridge tries to ignore the instant connection he feels with this stranger and possibly dangerous necromancer, but he instinctively knows Tabatha is the only person who can help him solve a string of brutal child killings.
Family secrets, lies and treachery all combine to make Tabatha’s efforts harder as she tries to save the last victim.
Sniff, sniff. Isn't she beautiful? ;o)
Friday, October 31, 2008
Web Sites and Guest Books
I have a Web site. Most writers do. The question is, how do you get the word out? How do you get someone to go to it? How do you know if anyone IS going to it? I'm not crazy about those counter thingies. But I always did like the idea of a guest book. So I have one. But when it's new, it looks so sad. IT'S EMPTY! LOL It's a really cool guest book. It will show a photo of you or your book, if you choose to put it there. It shows where you're from, if you choose to include that. Anyone want to sign my guest book and take this sad look off my face?
Char
www.cjparker.net
Char
www.cjparker.net
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
What a week!
I hit the ground running, it appears. This week I received two contracts. One from Sapphire Bue Publishing for the first book of my paranormal suspense, Fugue Macabre: Ghost Dance. Yes, it will be a re-release. My old publishing house sent out a message to their authors informing them they were to find new publishers. I wasted no time. The second book of the trilogy is already in their hands as you read.
Second contract was from Wild Rose Press for a time travel romance set in Deadwood 1876 and present day.
I received edits for Ghost Dance the other day and I just finished them today. Wow. This editor is good. She sees things I'd never thought of before. She will make the manuscript so much stronger. Or will my changes make it stronger? Or is it a combo of her suggestions and my following said suggestions? Oh, hell, forget it. It's stronger.
Second contract was from Wild Rose Press for a time travel romance set in Deadwood 1876 and present day.
I received edits for Ghost Dance the other day and I just finished them today. Wow. This editor is good. She sees things I'd never thought of before. She will make the manuscript so much stronger. Or will my changes make it stronger? Or is it a combo of her suggestions and my following said suggestions? Oh, hell, forget it. It's stronger.
Friday, September 12, 2008
The lake is coming, the lake is coming
We're getting lots of rain from bands from Ike. That is bad enough, since our soil is kinda saturated right now. But the winds are causing the waters from Lake Pontchartrain to overflow the sea wall. We live very close to the lake--half a mile close. The water is about a block away from us and inching closer. Understand, we are only 13 feet above sea level here. That is considered high ground in New Orleans. We've had this happen before. Many times. It's crept close. Even got into the garage a time or two. So I'm not too worried this time. But I hate cleaning up after it when it does get in the garage. It's muddy and smelly. And we've learned not to keep anything sitting on the garage floor. Shelves line nearly every wall space out there. I have my kiln on a stand that keeps it about a foot off the floor. My pottery wheel sits on a platform my hubby built for it, keeping it about six inches off the floor.
Now the wind. We just finsihed cleaning up after Gustav. Now I'm sitting here typing and listening to limbs hitting the roof. I glanced out the window and the yard is filled with debris again.
Reason for my ranting? I so want to sell this house and move away from here. Yes, I know every place has it's problems. Earthquakes, fires, hurricanes. But I'm ready for a new kind of catastrophe to whine about.
Now the wind. We just finsihed cleaning up after Gustav. Now I'm sitting here typing and listening to limbs hitting the roof. I glanced out the window and the yard is filled with debris again.
Reason for my ranting? I so want to sell this house and move away from here. Yes, I know every place has it's problems. Earthquakes, fires, hurricanes. But I'm ready for a new kind of catastrophe to whine about.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
I Got Lost
Did you miss me? I got lost along the way somehow. I left my publisher a few weeks ago. Signed with a new one a few days ago. Yay for me. I left the old publisher on a good cord. No hard feelings. Linda Daily asked us, her authors, to find a new publisher, since she is going in a different direction. I'm happy for her, and wish her all the luck in the world, especially since I hope to use Linda's expertise in her new endeavor soon. LOL
I signed with Sapphire Blue Publishing. They are aiming to have my book, Ghost Dance, released for Halloween. Whoa, fast on the draw, aren't they? But I'm all for it. I'll have to do the edits quickly and get them back to them, but I can do it.
Next excuse for being absent for so long. Hurricane Gustav. Yup, he gave us a little brush with his breath and spit. We were lucky, it only drenched us, made a mess of the yard and blew down one tree. But of course that one tree took out the power, phone and cable lines. We were real popular with our neighbors. We just got cable back today.
Excuse #3. I've been trying to figure out what to attend at the Muse Online Writers Conference. So many choices, so little waking time. And free time. I'm astounded at the number of writers and publishers who signed up to give lectures and chats. Kudos to you all.
Excuse #4. I just finished doing some tweaking on the second book of my trilogy so I could submit it to my new publisher, and now I'm trying to get the last book written. In fact my goal is to have it written and edited in three months. :o
That's my story and I'm sticking to it.Later, friends.
I signed with Sapphire Blue Publishing. They are aiming to have my book, Ghost Dance, released for Halloween. Whoa, fast on the draw, aren't they? But I'm all for it. I'll have to do the edits quickly and get them back to them, but I can do it.
Next excuse for being absent for so long. Hurricane Gustav. Yup, he gave us a little brush with his breath and spit. We were lucky, it only drenched us, made a mess of the yard and blew down one tree. But of course that one tree took out the power, phone and cable lines. We were real popular with our neighbors. We just got cable back today.
Excuse #3. I've been trying to figure out what to attend at the Muse Online Writers Conference. So many choices, so little waking time. And free time. I'm astounded at the number of writers and publishers who signed up to give lectures and chats. Kudos to you all.
Excuse #4. I just finished doing some tweaking on the second book of my trilogy so I could submit it to my new publisher, and now I'm trying to get the last book written. In fact my goal is to have it written and edited in three months. :o
That's my story and I'm sticking to it.Later, friends.
Friday, August 29, 2008
Here We Go Again
Gustav isn't even in the Gulf of Mexico yet and our governor is planning to evacuate the city of New Orleans. If and that is a big IF Gustav comes here it will be late Monday night or Tuesday morning. Why do they feel they have to start evacuating Saturday? It probably won't even be in the Gulf by Saturday. It probably won't hit New Orleans. Why?!!
Yes, the very Saturday that Heather Graham's Writers for New Orleans Workshop will be in full swing. I look forward to this all year. I don't wish this on anyone else, I just wish it would die a peaceful death. But that's not going to happen because the Gulf waters are too warm to let that happen. It will grow just as Katrina did. Hopefully not as large and strong as Katrina, but it will grow.
You ask why this could cause problems with the workshop? Well, let me give you an example. For Katrina they started the evacuation on a work day. People left work, left home to pick up kids at school, left for wherever. What took my hubby on a normal day 45 mintues to drive ended up taking 6 hours. And that was just to get home. And they are talking about starting the contra flow on the highways. For those of you who don't know what that is, contra flow is where they stop all traffic coming into the city and all lanes are open for outgoing traffic. Why is that a problem for me? Well I don't live right in New Orleans, but in a subburb. And parking cost a fortune in the city, so hubby is/was going to take me into the city and drop me off then pick me up when the fun was over. Ooops. Can't get into the city!
I will lose my money, but I don't even care about that. I wanted a weekend with other writers. I wanted to learn from those who know much more than I. I wanted to mingle and play.
I'll wait until tonight to make a decision. I'll listen to the news and see what the Governor plans to do and when. Until then I'll just feel sorry for myself.
Yes, the very Saturday that Heather Graham's Writers for New Orleans Workshop will be in full swing. I look forward to this all year. I don't wish this on anyone else, I just wish it would die a peaceful death. But that's not going to happen because the Gulf waters are too warm to let that happen. It will grow just as Katrina did. Hopefully not as large and strong as Katrina, but it will grow.
You ask why this could cause problems with the workshop? Well, let me give you an example. For Katrina they started the evacuation on a work day. People left work, left home to pick up kids at school, left for wherever. What took my hubby on a normal day 45 mintues to drive ended up taking 6 hours. And that was just to get home. And they are talking about starting the contra flow on the highways. For those of you who don't know what that is, contra flow is where they stop all traffic coming into the city and all lanes are open for outgoing traffic. Why is that a problem for me? Well I don't live right in New Orleans, but in a subburb. And parking cost a fortune in the city, so hubby is/was going to take me into the city and drop me off then pick me up when the fun was over. Ooops. Can't get into the city!
I will lose my money, but I don't even care about that. I wanted a weekend with other writers. I wanted to learn from those who know much more than I. I wanted to mingle and play.
I'll wait until tonight to make a decision. I'll listen to the news and see what the Governor plans to do and when. Until then I'll just feel sorry for myself.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Today is a Total Loss
"Nobody cares much wheather you write or not. You just have to do it."
Natalie Goldberg
"A blank piece of paper is God's way of telling us how hard it is to be God."
Sidney Sheldon
Can you tell I'm at a loss for words today? I've tried all morning to write. I've deleted every word I've written. The muse has abandoned me.
Think I'll go eat a gallon of Praline Ice Cream.
Natalie Goldberg
"A blank piece of paper is God's way of telling us how hard it is to be God."
Sidney Sheldon
Can you tell I'm at a loss for words today? I've tried all morning to write. I've deleted every word I've written. The muse has abandoned me.
Think I'll go eat a gallon of Praline Ice Cream.
Friday, August 15, 2008
This and That
I've had one of those days. I've not stopped but acommplished very little of importance. I shipped off some books to Connie Perry so she and Heather Graham could use them as prizes in the gift baskets raffled off at the New Orleans Workshop. (August 29-31) The proceeded go to the Louisiana Library system. Do you want to donate 10 to 15 books to add to the baskets? I'm sure Heather would appreciate it. So would the library. You can get in touch with me and I'll e-mail you the info. I'm looking forward to the workshop. Going to be quite a line up of "stars" to give the talks. Let me give you a taste. On Saturday, August 30 the topics will be:Tales from the TrenchesExperienced authors share the most valuable lessons they've learned over the course of their careers--including what they wish they'd known in the early days.Satisfying Reader Expectation Book After BookDefining your "signiture" and delivering your experiences with every book--and delivering more "Wow" with each release.Pros and ConflictWhether you write romantic comedy or edgy, dark thrillers, cozy mysteries or urban fantasy--if there's no conflict, there's no story. Make it real, make it strong, make it hit your characters in the heart.Out of this World-BuildingWorld bulding isn't just for fantasy or sci-fi. Whether your books are set in 1810 Regency England or 2525 Outer Limits, the world in which your characters live enhance the action and pulls the reader into your story. What are the key elements that must populate your novel's world?Marketing Your MarketingYou have the fab website, the MySpace page, the blog and the book trailer. You need to get people to see them, build Internet traffic, etc. How do you reach beyond the established reader to find new readers in your target audience? (Blog ads, blog interviews, internet sales beyond the known reader sites, etc.)Balancing the Dream and the Day JobFace facts--most of us don't support ourselves solely with our writing. How do successful writers balance their different careers while bulding their writing career--and still have a life?Who? Kate Duffy, Leslie Wainger, Adam Wilson, Peggy Garcia (Senior publicist at TOR), Barbara Vey from PW, Mary Stella, Cathy Maxwell, F. Paul Wilson, Kathy Love, Erin McCarthy, and Helen Rosburg. There are more but I've ran out of brain space. That is just Saturday. Friday night is the party to end all parties. All inhabitations are left at the door. Dance partner? You don't need one. No one knows who is dancing with whom anyway.Sunday will be a calm breakfast with more talks and more topics. And no one will metion that you got up and danced on the tables the night before.I wish you could be there. It would be a weekend none of us would ever forget or live down. LOL
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Scrambling
I sent a submission to Samhain Publishing a couple of weeks back and I just received an e-mail from them asking for a five to seven page synopsis for the story. Yes. I sent them a synopsis but it was a short one pager. I'm so used to editors/agents wanting short I didn't have a longer synopsis ready.
So my goal for today (and probably into tomorrow) will be to write a long synopsis. I'm pretty good at writing queries, but I so suck at synopsis.
So why am I sitting here blogging? It's called procrastinating. I could lie and say I'm running the story over in my head so I can breeze through this project, but in truth I'm just plain stalling.
I will do it. I will have it done by late tonight or early tomorrow afternoon. So if the Muse is out there, Come back, Sweetie. Vacation is over.
So my goal for today (and probably into tomorrow) will be to write a long synopsis. I'm pretty good at writing queries, but I so suck at synopsis.
So why am I sitting here blogging? It's called procrastinating. I could lie and say I'm running the story over in my head so I can breeze through this project, but in truth I'm just plain stalling.
I will do it. I will have it done by late tonight or early tomorrow afternoon. So if the Muse is out there, Come back, Sweetie. Vacation is over.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Meet the Author 11
Today's author is a good friend of mine. If you don't know her, you've got to look her up on Myspace. She will knock your socks off with her humor and wit.
C. L. Freire
Where do you live?
Miami, FL
Married/Kids?
Married, and have two furry little girls.
Pets?
My two girls, Midnight (kitty) and Muffy (pooch)
Age?
35, although I tend to joke every year that I'm still 22 on the outside and 15 on the inside.
Astrological Sign?
Libra
Dream Job?
What I do now. Author with the BEST PUBLISHING HOUSE EVER (TRIAD Publishing Group), and now Editor-in-Chief of TREI Literary Magazine
Favorite Genre?
Fantasy and Horror
Some favorite authors?
Hans Christian Anderson, Neil Gaiman, J.M.S. (creator of Babylon 5)
Favorite Fictional Hero?
John Sheridan (Captain of Babylon 5)
Favorite Real-life Hero?
My husband.
Favorite Fictional Heroine?
Buffy Sommers
Favorite Real-life Heroine?
Not sure on this one..
Favorite TV Shows?
Babylon 5, Desperate Housewives, Lois and Clark (The New Adventures of Superman), Supernatural, Friends, Sex in the City
Lifelong Ambition? To be a best selling author and live in NYC with my hubby and our girls in a fabulous apartment overlooking Central Park.
Where’s the Farthest you’ve traveled? Puerto RicoYour
Best Feature or Talent? My best features are my eyes and my smile, from what I'm told. My best talent is writing, although I have a lot of interests that I've spent my life trying to be as good at as possible.
Catchphrase or Motto? It's a Moral Imperative!
Webspace or blog link?
www.myspace.com/clfreire http://www.clfreire.blogspot.com/
Tell us about your books. Any more in the works?
I can't really spill about the first book, which is coming out Oct 1 this year. Pre orders open July 1. And I'm going on the air with www.blogtalkradio.com/AngelLesa at 8pm EST to officially announce the title of the book, which I've kept secret. That's when I'll talk about the book...hehe.
What I will say is that it is the first book in a Tween fantasy series of eight.
C. L. Freire
Where do you live?
Miami, FL
Married/Kids?
Married, and have two furry little girls.
Pets?
My two girls, Midnight (kitty) and Muffy (pooch)
Age?
35, although I tend to joke every year that I'm still 22 on the outside and 15 on the inside.
Astrological Sign?
Libra
Dream Job?
What I do now. Author with the BEST PUBLISHING HOUSE EVER (TRIAD Publishing Group), and now Editor-in-Chief of TREI Literary Magazine
Favorite Genre?
Fantasy and Horror
Some favorite authors?
Hans Christian Anderson, Neil Gaiman, J.M.S. (creator of Babylon 5)
Favorite Fictional Hero?
John Sheridan (Captain of Babylon 5)
Favorite Real-life Hero?
My husband.
Favorite Fictional Heroine?
Buffy Sommers
Favorite Real-life Heroine?
Not sure on this one..
Favorite TV Shows?
Babylon 5, Desperate Housewives, Lois and Clark (The New Adventures of Superman), Supernatural, Friends, Sex in the City
Lifelong Ambition? To be a best selling author and live in NYC with my hubby and our girls in a fabulous apartment overlooking Central Park.
Where’s the Farthest you’ve traveled? Puerto RicoYour
Best Feature or Talent? My best features are my eyes and my smile, from what I'm told. My best talent is writing, although I have a lot of interests that I've spent my life trying to be as good at as possible.
Catchphrase or Motto? It's a Moral Imperative!
Webspace or blog link?
www.myspace.com/clfreire http://www.clfreire.blogspot.com/
Tell us about your books. Any more in the works?
I can't really spill about the first book, which is coming out Oct 1 this year. Pre orders open July 1. And I'm going on the air with www.blogtalkradio.com/AngelLesa at 8pm EST to officially announce the title of the book, which I've kept secret. That's when I'll talk about the book...hehe.
What I will say is that it is the first book in a Tween fantasy series of eight.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Meet the Author 10
Today's author: Sher Hames Torres
Where do you live?
Georgia
Married/kids?
Married to Mark for twenty-five years, two kids--Courtney 17, and Dusty 15
Pets?
Auggie, a French Charles Spaniel/Beagle cross whom we've discovered is deceptively brilliant...he knows HOW to do just about everything--there are just some things he refuses to do.
Age?
49
Astrological Sign?
Aquarius
Dream Job?
Whoa that's tough. Let's see, I write. Love that. I stitch. Love that. And I'm a mom. I really love that. So I guess my answer is StitchingWriterMom.
Favorite Genre?
Wow, that's a hard question...Actually I love just about everything, romance, fantasy, sci-fi, paranormal, mystery, ya...so I think it would be easier for me to say what my least favorite genre is...illogical. I can read just about anything and enjoy it...even horror--which I abhor watching. I have no need to see what's on the INSIDE of a body and should stay there. Hence the reason you didn't see Doctor in the dream job slot. I can even read boring...course I put it down quickly. But what I can't stand are books that start out wonderfully, ease into the story with grandeur, then the H/H does something stupid and completely out of character which grabs the story by the belly button and yanks it into the realm of the unredeemable.
Some favorite authors?
Phyllis Whitney, LaVyrle Spencer, Kay Hooper, Iris Johanssen, Donna Kauffman, Linda Howard, Dan Brown, Karen Robards, Tolkien, Lackey, McCafferey, and the list goes on....
Favorite Fictional Hero?
Mr. Darcy. I love a strong man who will do grand gestures without having to have the fanfare and the HowWonderfulAmI? recognition.
Favorite real-life hero?
My husband. I know, nor have ever known anyone stronger, more loving, tougher or gentler than that man.
Favorite Fictional Heroine?
Jo March. She was strong, determined talented, headstrong, ambitious, and loved her family beyond all else.
Favorite Real-life herione?
My daughter. I've watched her fight through a life threatening illness, panic attacks, self-doubt and come out of it strong, determined and successful.
Favorite TV Shows?
I love intelligent tv...shows with rich characters and storylines, like Bones, House, Medium, Ghost Whisperer, Numbers, Moonlight Closer, Saving Grace. As a rule, I don't enjoy reality TV except for American Idol, So You Think You Can Dance(My son is a dancer so this is a must), Project Runway, and anything Gordon Ramsey.
Lifelong Ambition?
To be a mom and a writer.
Where's the farthest you've traveled?
Canada to the North, Miami to the South, Louisianna to the West, and the entire east coast from Jersey to Florida.
Catchphrase or Motto?
Just because you pray for something and don't hear back immediately doesn't mean the answer is no. Sometimes it just means "When I get good and ready." or There be dragons here and you look crunchy and probably taste good with ketchup.
Web space or blog link?
www.hometown.aol.com/babynerds/index.html I also have a My Space page, but I can't even tell you the link...just search for Sher Hames Torres
Tell us about your books. Any more in the works?
Right now, I have stories in two available anthologies: Fate's Little Trick in Enchanted Holidays, and Enigma in One Touch Beyond, both available from Cerridwen Press. My first full-length novel, Illusions, is due for release later this year. Presently, I have three other novels in the works.
Where do you live?
Georgia
Married/kids?
Married to Mark for twenty-five years, two kids--Courtney 17, and Dusty 15
Pets?
Auggie, a French Charles Spaniel/Beagle cross whom we've discovered is deceptively brilliant...he knows HOW to do just about everything--there are just some things he refuses to do.
Age?
49
Astrological Sign?
Aquarius
Dream Job?
Whoa that's tough. Let's see, I write. Love that. I stitch. Love that. And I'm a mom. I really love that. So I guess my answer is StitchingWriterMom.
Favorite Genre?
Wow, that's a hard question...Actually I love just about everything, romance, fantasy, sci-fi, paranormal, mystery, ya...so I think it would be easier for me to say what my least favorite genre is...illogical. I can read just about anything and enjoy it...even horror--which I abhor watching. I have no need to see what's on the INSIDE of a body and should stay there. Hence the reason you didn't see Doctor in the dream job slot. I can even read boring...course I put it down quickly. But what I can't stand are books that start out wonderfully, ease into the story with grandeur, then the H/H does something stupid and completely out of character which grabs the story by the belly button and yanks it into the realm of the unredeemable.
Some favorite authors?
Phyllis Whitney, LaVyrle Spencer, Kay Hooper, Iris Johanssen, Donna Kauffman, Linda Howard, Dan Brown, Karen Robards, Tolkien, Lackey, McCafferey, and the list goes on....
Favorite Fictional Hero?
Mr. Darcy. I love a strong man who will do grand gestures without having to have the fanfare and the HowWonderfulAmI? recognition.
Favorite real-life hero?
My husband. I know, nor have ever known anyone stronger, more loving, tougher or gentler than that man.
Favorite Fictional Heroine?
Jo March. She was strong, determined talented, headstrong, ambitious, and loved her family beyond all else.
Favorite Real-life herione?
My daughter. I've watched her fight through a life threatening illness, panic attacks, self-doubt and come out of it strong, determined and successful.
Favorite TV Shows?
I love intelligent tv...shows with rich characters and storylines, like Bones, House, Medium, Ghost Whisperer, Numbers, Moonlight Closer, Saving Grace. As a rule, I don't enjoy reality TV except for American Idol, So You Think You Can Dance(My son is a dancer so this is a must), Project Runway, and anything Gordon Ramsey.
Lifelong Ambition?
To be a mom and a writer.
Where's the farthest you've traveled?
Canada to the North, Miami to the South, Louisianna to the West, and the entire east coast from Jersey to Florida.
Catchphrase or Motto?
Just because you pray for something and don't hear back immediately doesn't mean the answer is no. Sometimes it just means "When I get good and ready." or There be dragons here and you look crunchy and probably taste good with ketchup.
Web space or blog link?
www.hometown.aol.com/babynerds/index.html I also have a My Space page, but I can't even tell you the link...just search for Sher Hames Torres
Tell us about your books. Any more in the works?
Right now, I have stories in two available anthologies: Fate's Little Trick in Enchanted Holidays, and Enigma in One Touch Beyond, both available from Cerridwen Press. My first full-length novel, Illusions, is due for release later this year. Presently, I have three other novels in the works.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Meet the Author 9
Today's author: Laure Sorensen
Where do you live?
I live in midwestern West Virginia, Huntington and or Charleston are basically a stone's throw from my porch.
Married/Kids?
I am married for the second and final time to my soulmate, Danny. Between us we have two kids that are mine and three that are his, and one of his has a husband too.
Pets?
Pets, goodness where do I start? I have one indoor-outdoor cat, Oreo, two indoor cats, Addy and Milo, PLUS my stepdaughter and her husband, who are currently living here, have two indoor cats, Doddy and Basket. We then have several outside catd, Ralf, Tabby, Dobbie, Cameo, Dot, Mini Oreo, and Ms. Oreo. Yes, Ms. Oreo is the mother of Mini Oreo and the grandmother of Mr. Oreo. Original, ain't we? LOL
Age?
I am 37 years-young righ now, but I have a birthday coming up, I tell everyone I am only 29...some believe me...LOL
Astrological Sign?
I am a Virgo, to a Tee.
Dream Job?
My dream job would be to be a history teacher in high school, while ALSO doing my professional author bit, it would be like having my cake and eating it too.
Favorite Genre?
Historical Romance
Some Favorite Authors?
Catherine Coulter, Nora Roberts, C. J. Parker, Micki Peluso, Linda Daly, Dan Brown, Jane Feather, Julie Garwood.
Favroite Fictional Hero?
Rhett Butler from Gone With the Wind and orry Main from North and South.
Favorite real-life hero?
This one is easy. That would be a combination of four men who have been or are in my life now. Danny, my husband, rescued me from the pits, bringing me up further than I could have ever been alone. My father, Albert Poole, who took me on when he married Mom, accepting and adopting me to bring me into his large family fold. My paternal Grandfather, Amos "Bud" Poole. He was the only one who tried to keep a straight face, while explaining to this 'city girl' that bulls are the cows you DON'T milk. Rest in Peace, Grandpa, I love you still. And last but not least would be my maternal Grandfather, Walter Sorensen. This is a man who has overcome odds, and the death of three wives, yet is still here to tell the story. I adore you beyond words.
Favorite Fictional Heroine?
Scarlett O'Hara from Gone With the Wind and Madeline from North and South.
Favorite Real-live heroine?
This one is easy...Mom would be the major one, as she is stronger than she appears, having overcome triple bypass surgery, and all the trials life has passed her way. She goes out of her way to help someone, anyone. She has strong and loving faith in me, and proves it all the time. Another two heroine's for me would be both of my grandmothers. Loretta Sorensen, gone from her earthly binds now for many years, but still very much in my heart and soul. Evelyn Poole, who loved one man all her life and now devotes all her time to family and friends. She is one of the strongest women I have ever known. She loved and accepted me into her family when Dad married Mom, that upon looking through photo albumns much later, she mentioned that she didn't understand why she didn't have any baby pictures of me. We had to remind her that she didn't even know me until I was 5 years old. I am so blessed to have her in my life.
Favorite TV Show?
Supernatural, Charmed, Little House on the Prarie, Touched by and Angel, Nashville Star, America's got Talent, Days of Our Lives, and Hero's.
Lifelong Ambition?
I think my lifelong ambition was to be the best mother I could be. I have two natural children who love me and are very well behaved, for the most part, and three step children who I love dearly, and they even come to me for advice sometimes. So I guess I made it happen.
Where's the Farthest you've traveled?
The farthest I have been would have to be Either England or Okinawa, not sure which one would be farthest away from my current location. My father was in the Air Force, I was about 5 and a half years old when I was in England, and I was 13 when I was in Okinawa.
Your best feature or talent?
My best feature, so I am told are my eyes and smile...as for my talent, I am told that I am a born story teller, which might explain why I decided to become a published author.
Catchphrase or Motto?
Love from the heart is eternal.
Web space or blog link?
www.freewebs.com/lauriesorensen AND http://www.sorensenshorts.blogspot.com/ AND www.myspace.com/nights_salvation And my book can be had from http://www.lightswordpublishing.com/ as well as any fine booksellers online, such as Borders, Barnes and Nobel and Walden Books.
Tell us about your book. Any more in the works?
Ravenwood: Night's Salvation is book one of a series of books which will have a toal of 5 novels and a companion cookbook to complete the entire set. Ravenwood: Storm's Destiny is the next in the series, and hopefully will be turned in to the publisher soon. I have several more books in the works, all in various stages of writing. The back of the book blurb for Ravenwood: Night's Salvation is as follows---Duty, love and passion take flight on the wings of destiny. Compelled by honor and duty, Night Ravenwood leaves the life on the sea he loves to return home after the deather of his brother. As heir to Ravenwood Manor, he finds himself in an arranged marriage and living a life he did not want. When tragedy strikes the newlywed couple, Night finds himself in love with the beautiful and serene Satine, they are tested in every way. Satine vows to make Night understand his destiny is with her while someone is willing to commit murder to keep them apart. Will love or murder shape the destiny of this union?
Where do you live?
I live in midwestern West Virginia, Huntington and or Charleston are basically a stone's throw from my porch.
Married/Kids?
I am married for the second and final time to my soulmate, Danny. Between us we have two kids that are mine and three that are his, and one of his has a husband too.
Pets?
Pets, goodness where do I start? I have one indoor-outdoor cat, Oreo, two indoor cats, Addy and Milo, PLUS my stepdaughter and her husband, who are currently living here, have two indoor cats, Doddy and Basket. We then have several outside catd, Ralf, Tabby, Dobbie, Cameo, Dot, Mini Oreo, and Ms. Oreo. Yes, Ms. Oreo is the mother of Mini Oreo and the grandmother of Mr. Oreo. Original, ain't we? LOL
Age?
I am 37 years-young righ now, but I have a birthday coming up, I tell everyone I am only 29...some believe me...LOL
Astrological Sign?
I am a Virgo, to a Tee.
Dream Job?
My dream job would be to be a history teacher in high school, while ALSO doing my professional author bit, it would be like having my cake and eating it too.
Favorite Genre?
Historical Romance
Some Favorite Authors?
Catherine Coulter, Nora Roberts, C. J. Parker, Micki Peluso, Linda Daly, Dan Brown, Jane Feather, Julie Garwood.
Favroite Fictional Hero?
Rhett Butler from Gone With the Wind and orry Main from North and South.
Favorite real-life hero?
This one is easy. That would be a combination of four men who have been or are in my life now. Danny, my husband, rescued me from the pits, bringing me up further than I could have ever been alone. My father, Albert Poole, who took me on when he married Mom, accepting and adopting me to bring me into his large family fold. My paternal Grandfather, Amos "Bud" Poole. He was the only one who tried to keep a straight face, while explaining to this 'city girl' that bulls are the cows you DON'T milk. Rest in Peace, Grandpa, I love you still. And last but not least would be my maternal Grandfather, Walter Sorensen. This is a man who has overcome odds, and the death of three wives, yet is still here to tell the story. I adore you beyond words.
Favorite Fictional Heroine?
Scarlett O'Hara from Gone With the Wind and Madeline from North and South.
Favorite Real-live heroine?
This one is easy...Mom would be the major one, as she is stronger than she appears, having overcome triple bypass surgery, and all the trials life has passed her way. She goes out of her way to help someone, anyone. She has strong and loving faith in me, and proves it all the time. Another two heroine's for me would be both of my grandmothers. Loretta Sorensen, gone from her earthly binds now for many years, but still very much in my heart and soul. Evelyn Poole, who loved one man all her life and now devotes all her time to family and friends. She is one of the strongest women I have ever known. She loved and accepted me into her family when Dad married Mom, that upon looking through photo albumns much later, she mentioned that she didn't understand why she didn't have any baby pictures of me. We had to remind her that she didn't even know me until I was 5 years old. I am so blessed to have her in my life.
Favorite TV Show?
Supernatural, Charmed, Little House on the Prarie, Touched by and Angel, Nashville Star, America's got Talent, Days of Our Lives, and Hero's.
Lifelong Ambition?
I think my lifelong ambition was to be the best mother I could be. I have two natural children who love me and are very well behaved, for the most part, and three step children who I love dearly, and they even come to me for advice sometimes. So I guess I made it happen.
Where's the Farthest you've traveled?
The farthest I have been would have to be Either England or Okinawa, not sure which one would be farthest away from my current location. My father was in the Air Force, I was about 5 and a half years old when I was in England, and I was 13 when I was in Okinawa.
Your best feature or talent?
My best feature, so I am told are my eyes and smile...as for my talent, I am told that I am a born story teller, which might explain why I decided to become a published author.
Catchphrase or Motto?
Love from the heart is eternal.
Web space or blog link?
www.freewebs.com/lauriesorensen AND http://www.sorensenshorts.blogspot.com/ AND www.myspace.com/nights_salvation And my book can be had from http://www.lightswordpublishing.com/ as well as any fine booksellers online, such as Borders, Barnes and Nobel and Walden Books.
Tell us about your book. Any more in the works?
Ravenwood: Night's Salvation is book one of a series of books which will have a toal of 5 novels and a companion cookbook to complete the entire set. Ravenwood: Storm's Destiny is the next in the series, and hopefully will be turned in to the publisher soon. I have several more books in the works, all in various stages of writing. The back of the book blurb for Ravenwood: Night's Salvation is as follows---Duty, love and passion take flight on the wings of destiny. Compelled by honor and duty, Night Ravenwood leaves the life on the sea he loves to return home after the deather of his brother. As heir to Ravenwood Manor, he finds himself in an arranged marriage and living a life he did not want. When tragedy strikes the newlywed couple, Night finds himself in love with the beautiful and serene Satine, they are tested in every way. Satine vows to make Night understand his destiny is with her while someone is willing to commit murder to keep them apart. Will love or murder shape the destiny of this union?
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Meet The Author 8
Today's Author: Alex Braguine (Light Sword Publishing)
Where do you live?
Just outside Washington, D. C.
Pets?
When in Laos I had a Malayan sun bear who was great beer drinking companion. In Kenya, had a pack f eight dogs run by a bossy Washensi bitch. Horses were always important. though havent owned any for the last ten years.
Astrological Sign?
Sagitarious
Dream Job?
The one I enjoy the most was as a safari outfitter in Africa.
Favorite Genre?
Intelleigent thrillers
Some Favorite authors?
Le Carre, Forsythe, Follet, Perez-Reverte
Favorite Fiction Hero?
Ostap Bender (The Twelve Chairs and The golden Calf by Ilf & POetrov)
Favorite Real-life Hero?
Otto Kretshmer (WWII U_Boat commander)
Favorite Fictional Heroine?
Natasha (War & Peace)
Favorite Real-life Heroine?
My Ex who played a leading role in saving survivors after the sinking of the yact Tafuta Tu.
Favorite TV Show?
I don't watch TV.
Lifelong Ambition?
To write at least on book.
Where's the Farthest you've traveled?
25,000 miles (Around the world, both east and westbound)
Your Best Feature or Talent?
patience and perseverance
Catchphrase or Moto?
Rebellion is the greatest form of self-expression.
Web site or blog link?
www.alexeybraguine.com
Tell us about your book(s). Any more in the works?
Kingmaker is about an intelligence officer who refuses to modify a report to suit a political agenda. This leads him to Africa where he uncovers a plot to manipulate the war or terror and to loot natural resources.
I'm now working on The Schubert Cipher where: An unbroken Nazi code holds the key to a plot by a foreign power to gain control of the U. S. government.
Where do you live?
Just outside Washington, D. C.
Pets?
When in Laos I had a Malayan sun bear who was great beer drinking companion. In Kenya, had a pack f eight dogs run by a bossy Washensi bitch. Horses were always important. though havent owned any for the last ten years.
Astrological Sign?
Sagitarious
Dream Job?
The one I enjoy the most was as a safari outfitter in Africa.
Favorite Genre?
Intelleigent thrillers
Some Favorite authors?
Le Carre, Forsythe, Follet, Perez-Reverte
Favorite Fiction Hero?
Ostap Bender (The Twelve Chairs and The golden Calf by Ilf & POetrov)
Favorite Real-life Hero?
Otto Kretshmer (WWII U_Boat commander)
Favorite Fictional Heroine?
Natasha (War & Peace)
Favorite Real-life Heroine?
My Ex who played a leading role in saving survivors after the sinking of the yact Tafuta Tu.
Favorite TV Show?
I don't watch TV.
Lifelong Ambition?
To write at least on book.
Where's the Farthest you've traveled?
25,000 miles (Around the world, both east and westbound)
Your Best Feature or Talent?
patience and perseverance
Catchphrase or Moto?
Rebellion is the greatest form of self-expression.
Web site or blog link?
www.alexeybraguine.com
Tell us about your book(s). Any more in the works?
Kingmaker is about an intelligence officer who refuses to modify a report to suit a political agenda. This leads him to Africa where he uncovers a plot to manipulate the war or terror and to loot natural resources.
I'm now working on The Schubert Cipher where: An unbroken Nazi code holds the key to a plot by a foreign power to gain control of the U. S. government.
Monday, June 16, 2008
Meet the Author 7
Today's author: Annie Kelleher
Where do you live?
Deep in the Connecticut woods
Married? Kids?
Very, six kids between us.
Age?
Nearly 50!!!!
Astrological Sign?
Aries sun, Capricorn mood, Scorpio rising
Dream Job?
This one.
Favorite Genre?
Aney that captivate me.
Some favorite authors?
Anya Seton, margaret Atwood, John Irving, Sue Miller, Jodi Picoult, many many more.
Favorite Fiction Hero?
I would have to say either Artimour from Silver's Edge, and Silver Bane, or Lochlan from Silver;s Lure. I like a man who always comes through.
Favorite Real-life hero?
My daddy.
Favorite fictional Heroine?
I will always have a soft spot for Nyda, the heroine of my first novel Daughter of Prophecy. She falls for the wrong guy--but, hey, who hasn't?
Favorite Real-life Heroine?
My daughter, Katie. She works as a child abu7se investigator for the state, and what she deals with every day, I couldn't handle for five minutes.
Favorite TV Shows?
Jeopardy. And shows about ghosts.
Lifelong Ambition? To die peacefully and painlessly after a reasonable happy and richly fulfilling life.
Where's the Farthest you've traveled?
How big is your imagination?
Your Best Feature or Talent?
I like to think I make the best of whatever I have to work with.
Catchphrase or Motto?
That which does not kill you makes you strong.
Webspace or blog link?
http://anniekelleher.blogspot.com
Tell us about your books. any more in the works?
Currently I am working on several ideas. I have four or five stories, all running amok in my head. I have anywhere from 10 to 20 thousand words on these stories, so each of them seem to be developing. this creative chaos is very different for me, and rather than fight it, or attempt to corral it, I am simply going along with the flow. It's a little scary and defnitely exciting, because I niever quite know where (or who) I'm going next. One minute I'm fighting evil peruvian drug-running shamen, next I'm a speechwriter for the first woman nominated for president, and every now and then I'ma bisexual warrior out of Iris myth. There's also one aobut a oven of cute witches, as well as my ever-evolving trilogy spinoff from the Silver books. So who knows what's next or in the works? Maybe the next one will be a mix of them all!
And that's just three!
Where do you live?
Deep in the Connecticut woods
Married? Kids?
Very, six kids between us.
Age?
Nearly 50!!!!
Astrological Sign?
Aries sun, Capricorn mood, Scorpio rising
Dream Job?
This one.
Favorite Genre?
Aney that captivate me.
Some favorite authors?
Anya Seton, margaret Atwood, John Irving, Sue Miller, Jodi Picoult, many many more.
Favorite Fiction Hero?
I would have to say either Artimour from Silver's Edge, and Silver Bane, or Lochlan from Silver;s Lure. I like a man who always comes through.
Favorite Real-life hero?
My daddy.
Favorite fictional Heroine?
I will always have a soft spot for Nyda, the heroine of my first novel Daughter of Prophecy. She falls for the wrong guy--but, hey, who hasn't?
Favorite Real-life Heroine?
My daughter, Katie. She works as a child abu7se investigator for the state, and what she deals with every day, I couldn't handle for five minutes.
Favorite TV Shows?
Jeopardy. And shows about ghosts.
Lifelong Ambition? To die peacefully and painlessly after a reasonable happy and richly fulfilling life.
Where's the Farthest you've traveled?
How big is your imagination?
Your Best Feature or Talent?
I like to think I make the best of whatever I have to work with.
Catchphrase or Motto?
That which does not kill you makes you strong.
Webspace or blog link?
http://anniekelleher.blogspot.com
Tell us about your books. any more in the works?
Currently I am working on several ideas. I have four or five stories, all running amok in my head. I have anywhere from 10 to 20 thousand words on these stories, so each of them seem to be developing. this creative chaos is very different for me, and rather than fight it, or attempt to corral it, I am simply going along with the flow. It's a little scary and defnitely exciting, because I niever quite know where (or who) I'm going next. One minute I'm fighting evil peruvian drug-running shamen, next I'm a speechwriter for the first woman nominated for president, and every now and then I'ma bisexual warrior out of Iris myth. There's also one aobut a oven of cute witches, as well as my ever-evolving trilogy spinoff from the Silver books. So who knows what's next or in the works? Maybe the next one will be a mix of them all!
And that's just three!
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Attention Unpublished Writers
The Southern Louisiana (SOLA) Chapter of the Romance Writers of America, Inc., a nonprofit literary organization, kicks off its 3rd Annual Dixie Kane Memorial writing contest this week with a deadline date of May 17. Entries should not exceed five double spaced pages set with one inch margins. The entry should also contain a one page single spaced synopsis. Genre categories are: short contemporary, long contemporary, single title contemporary, romantic suspense, historical romance, paranormal romance, inspirational romance and novel with romantic elements. Top prize in each category is a reading by literary agent Pamela Ahearn. For more information and entry form, go to http://www.solawriters.org/ or email the contest coordinator at ngenovese@gmail.com.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Agent Jessica Faust
Jessica Faust, literary agent and cofounder of BookEnds, LLC was the guest at the SOLA meeting this last Saturday. She talked about different topics important to the writer. Here are a few of her comments.
Marketing: As important for the unpublished writer as the published author. Why the unpublished? It gets your name out there. Then when your book is on the self and someone is walking the isle, she'll say, wait, I've heard that name. Same for the published author. How many times have you stopped to pick up an author's book, even though you've never read them, just because the name rang a bell?
The Query: This is your first introduction to the agent. And we've all heard about the importance of first impressions. Don't blow it.
One page only.
Your job is to NOT bore the agent.
This paragraph is your back cover.
Make it a grabber.
Make it professional.
What is your genre?
Not sure?
Who do you compare it with?
My books are similar to... Side note: Do not compare yourself with the dead clasics. No one wants another Falkner or Poe.
Don't get over complicated.
One paragraph hook.
A bad qauery is like going on a job interview with a great resume dressed in ripped jeans and a dirty T-shirt.
List memberships: Being a member of RWA or Sister N Crime,etc, is important. This is your first book, it can be the difference between request for more or rejection. It shows you are serious about your work and know the importance of marketing yourself.
Writing a great book is important, but not enough. What can you do to call attention to your book? Why should anyone pick up yours and not some New York Times best seller?
Look at the bigger picture. Work in a group--knitters, cops, fire fighters, hockey player--as a hero/heroine. (Note: Faust loves bounty hunter stories.)
Generate business:Myspace is useful. Websites: Faust doesn't care if you have one or not. Can be useful for the unpublished author. Make it different, unique, interesting. Keep it updated. If you can't, don't have one.
Bio: No one cares how many kids you have or how wonderful your hubby is. This is business. Keep your bio in that style.
Blog: Keep it either professional or personal, not both. Update at least twice a day. Do not blog if it cuts into your writing time. Be careful what you say about other authors, editors, agents. If could come back and bite you. Don't do reviews of books in your genre. You could offend other readers.
You are the CocoaCola of your own company. Don't ruin your brand with a big mouth.
Don't be a contest whore. Sometimes the winner is just the best of the worst. Don't mention awards on a manuscript older than a year. Agent may think it's been sitting around for so long, something must be wrong with it. Or that you've not written anything else between that time and now.
Never miss a deadline.
Most important thing: Write the next book. Don't sit and worry about what is happening to the one out there. Get started on another. You are a writer. Write.
Faust Likes:ContemporariesRomantic suspenseLoves Dark stories
Non Fiction: No memoirs
She covered a lot more topics, but this blog entry is getting too long. She was a wonderful speaker, kept this writer's attention. She's very personable. Would I like her to be my agent? Silly question. But she's not into my genre. Just my luck.
Marketing: As important for the unpublished writer as the published author. Why the unpublished? It gets your name out there. Then when your book is on the self and someone is walking the isle, she'll say, wait, I've heard that name. Same for the published author. How many times have you stopped to pick up an author's book, even though you've never read them, just because the name rang a bell?
The Query: This is your first introduction to the agent. And we've all heard about the importance of first impressions. Don't blow it.
One page only.
Your job is to NOT bore the agent.
This paragraph is your back cover.
Make it a grabber.
Make it professional.
What is your genre?
Not sure?
Who do you compare it with?
My books are similar to... Side note: Do not compare yourself with the dead clasics. No one wants another Falkner or Poe.
Don't get over complicated.
One paragraph hook.
A bad qauery is like going on a job interview with a great resume dressed in ripped jeans and a dirty T-shirt.
List memberships: Being a member of RWA or Sister N Crime,etc, is important. This is your first book, it can be the difference between request for more or rejection. It shows you are serious about your work and know the importance of marketing yourself.
Writing a great book is important, but not enough. What can you do to call attention to your book? Why should anyone pick up yours and not some New York Times best seller?
Look at the bigger picture. Work in a group--knitters, cops, fire fighters, hockey player--as a hero/heroine. (Note: Faust loves bounty hunter stories.)
Generate business:Myspace is useful. Websites: Faust doesn't care if you have one or not. Can be useful for the unpublished author. Make it different, unique, interesting. Keep it updated. If you can't, don't have one.
Bio: No one cares how many kids you have or how wonderful your hubby is. This is business. Keep your bio in that style.
Blog: Keep it either professional or personal, not both. Update at least twice a day. Do not blog if it cuts into your writing time. Be careful what you say about other authors, editors, agents. If could come back and bite you. Don't do reviews of books in your genre. You could offend other readers.
You are the CocoaCola of your own company. Don't ruin your brand with a big mouth.
Don't be a contest whore. Sometimes the winner is just the best of the worst. Don't mention awards on a manuscript older than a year. Agent may think it's been sitting around for so long, something must be wrong with it. Or that you've not written anything else between that time and now.
Never miss a deadline.
Most important thing: Write the next book. Don't sit and worry about what is happening to the one out there. Get started on another. You are a writer. Write.
Faust Likes:ContemporariesRomantic suspenseLoves Dark stories
Non Fiction: No memoirs
She covered a lot more topics, but this blog entry is getting too long. She was a wonderful speaker, kept this writer's attention. She's very personable. Would I like her to be my agent? Silly question. But she's not into my genre. Just my luck.
Monday, March 10, 2008
A Moment of Clarity
I heard an announcement that caused my skin to raise with goosebumps. One of my favorite authors will be in town to do a signing at B&N on the 19th. I'll be able to meet Charlaine Harris, author of the Sookie Stackhouse Southern Vampire novels. Whoo hooo. It was like I was a teenager again and about to meet a god of sorts. I was thrilled. Then a flash of clarity hit. She is not unlike me. She's an author trying to sell her books. I'm an author trying to sell mine. She has a lot of them. I have one. But even she had to start with one. Did it dampen my excitment? Nope. I'm still looking forward to meeting her, but maybe it did dull the childish "author worship" edge.
The whole thing got me to thinking. Did I become a writer to feel that thill of knowing someone else was reading my work? No. I write because it gives me satisfaction. It's who I am to a point. Yes, I'm someone's wife and daughter. Yes, I'm friend to a few people. But take away my writing and I feel as if I've lost a large part of me. The part that is different than anyone else. There are other writers, but none like me. My grandmother always told me there would always be someone better, but not someone just like me. My writing makes me me. I find contentment when I place my butt in this chair and let my words go from my head to my fingertips. I listen to each character's voice as he/she talks to me. I argue with them when they don't agree with a twist or turn in the story. Sometimes they win, sometimes I do. Okay. Most of the time they win.
When I was young and first starting to run sentences together, I used to think the characters were long gone souls telling me their stories. I was just the one with the pen and paper, taking down their words. I loved the stores of the old west and gunfighters. I fell in love with Wild Bill Hickok and many of my stories were about him. Then I heard my first ghost story. Sorry, Wild Bill.
I started writing of ghosts looking for revenge. I wrote of girls with special abilities who could talk to the ghosts. I look back now and realize they were silly stories. Most didn't even have a real plot. Hey! I was twelve. What did I know about plots? I started reading anything I could find in the library on the subject of the paranormal. Not a hot topic back then, but I found enough to keep my imagination fed. Over the years real life took over and I had to find a job and make a living. I married. We worked hard to have the American dream...a house of our own with the picket fence and a dog. Turns out the picket fence was a six foot privacy fence, and A dog turned into three. Then one day I came home from work, burnt out, fed up and angry about one thing or the other (again) and my hubby said, "You always say you want to be a writer, do it. Quit that job and write. We don't need the money from your job any more."
Silly me, I took him up on it.
Back to the beginning of this post: I wonder, Charlaine, did you grow up writing silly stoires in the beginning? Did the stories grow and take form as time passed? Do your words burn in your soul until you have to turn them loose?
Are we that different?
The whole thing got me to thinking. Did I become a writer to feel that thill of knowing someone else was reading my work? No. I write because it gives me satisfaction. It's who I am to a point. Yes, I'm someone's wife and daughter. Yes, I'm friend to a few people. But take away my writing and I feel as if I've lost a large part of me. The part that is different than anyone else. There are other writers, but none like me. My grandmother always told me there would always be someone better, but not someone just like me. My writing makes me me. I find contentment when I place my butt in this chair and let my words go from my head to my fingertips. I listen to each character's voice as he/she talks to me. I argue with them when they don't agree with a twist or turn in the story. Sometimes they win, sometimes I do. Okay. Most of the time they win.
When I was young and first starting to run sentences together, I used to think the characters were long gone souls telling me their stories. I was just the one with the pen and paper, taking down their words. I loved the stores of the old west and gunfighters. I fell in love with Wild Bill Hickok and many of my stories were about him. Then I heard my first ghost story. Sorry, Wild Bill.
I started writing of ghosts looking for revenge. I wrote of girls with special abilities who could talk to the ghosts. I look back now and realize they were silly stories. Most didn't even have a real plot. Hey! I was twelve. What did I know about plots? I started reading anything I could find in the library on the subject of the paranormal. Not a hot topic back then, but I found enough to keep my imagination fed. Over the years real life took over and I had to find a job and make a living. I married. We worked hard to have the American dream...a house of our own with the picket fence and a dog. Turns out the picket fence was a six foot privacy fence, and A dog turned into three. Then one day I came home from work, burnt out, fed up and angry about one thing or the other (again) and my hubby said, "You always say you want to be a writer, do it. Quit that job and write. We don't need the money from your job any more."
Silly me, I took him up on it.
Back to the beginning of this post: I wonder, Charlaine, did you grow up writing silly stoires in the beginning? Did the stories grow and take form as time passed? Do your words burn in your soul until you have to turn them loose?
Are we that different?
Thursday, March 6, 2008
A Beautiful Day
It's a beautiful day in New Orleans. The sun is shining. It's warm (in the 60s). Hubby and I spent the morning working in the yard. Well, he did most of the work. I'd work for a while, then sit for a while. The back yard is beginning to look like someone cares.
During one of my setting sessions, I brought out the shrimp for dinner tonight and began to peel the shells. A hawk flew circles over my head a few times then settled on one of the patio chairs and stared at me. Made me wonder who he had been in another life. Then I realized what he wanted. I ran my fingers through the pile of shrimp and found a few small ones. One by one I handed them to him. The bird ate out of my hand. A hawk ate out of my hand!
Richard gave me a hard time about it when the hawk finally decided I wasn't going to give him any more shrimp and flew away. Richard said "that "damned bird" could have bit you." Yeah, he could have, but he didn't. And, I can't tell you what it felt like to have a wild hawk trust me like that.
Maybe on another nice day in the future (supposed to storm tonight and in the morning) I'll take a few shrimp out on the deck and see if my hawk comes back.
During one of my setting sessions, I brought out the shrimp for dinner tonight and began to peel the shells. A hawk flew circles over my head a few times then settled on one of the patio chairs and stared at me. Made me wonder who he had been in another life. Then I realized what he wanted. I ran my fingers through the pile of shrimp and found a few small ones. One by one I handed them to him. The bird ate out of my hand. A hawk ate out of my hand!
Richard gave me a hard time about it when the hawk finally decided I wasn't going to give him any more shrimp and flew away. Richard said "that "damned bird" could have bit you." Yeah, he could have, but he didn't. And, I can't tell you what it felt like to have a wild hawk trust me like that.
Maybe on another nice day in the future (supposed to storm tonight and in the morning) I'll take a few shrimp out on the deck and see if my hawk comes back.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Strange
My old blogger site decided to not let me in. Said I didn't exist. I hate that.
So what will look like a new blogger site, is actually my second try to have one. So here goes.
I had a signing Saturday. Sold out. Sounds great, huh? Well, when I got there the book had not arrived. Thank God I had a few books in the car and I was allowed to sell those, so I'd at least have a signing at all. The Customer Relations Manager promised to let me have another signing after the order came in. She also said she'd ship me the replacement books for the ones sold.
I have another signing this coming Saturday. The weather channel says there is a 70% change we will have storms, maybe severe storms most of the day.
I'm sitting here wondering what I did to piss off the fates. Can't think of anything. Well, I did take two months off after finishing my second book. But I'm hard at work now. I've got the first chapter written. The second one started. I still need to do a bit of research on arson investigation.
So, if you pray, please pray that the rain holds of until after my signing. I need this. Oh, okay. I may not need it, but my publisher thinks I do. I just want it. Really, really badly.
So what will look like a new blogger site, is actually my second try to have one. So here goes.
I had a signing Saturday. Sold out. Sounds great, huh? Well, when I got there the book had not arrived. Thank God I had a few books in the car and I was allowed to sell those, so I'd at least have a signing at all. The Customer Relations Manager promised to let me have another signing after the order came in. She also said she'd ship me the replacement books for the ones sold.
I have another signing this coming Saturday. The weather channel says there is a 70% change we will have storms, maybe severe storms most of the day.
I'm sitting here wondering what I did to piss off the fates. Can't think of anything. Well, I did take two months off after finishing my second book. But I'm hard at work now. I've got the first chapter written. The second one started. I still need to do a bit of research on arson investigation.
So, if you pray, please pray that the rain holds of until after my signing. I need this. Oh, okay. I may not need it, but my publisher thinks I do. I just want it. Really, really badly.
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