Cerebrations of a Writer

I'm going to be published!

2012-03-03T17:59:00.000-08:00

A few months back I posted about a writing contest that I had entered. It was the first one I had ever entered and didn't expect much to come out of my short story. WELL, I didn't win a prize, but I was one of the top 25 finalists and will be published! I'm super stoked. If you want to publish novels, it's best to have SOME publications under your belt. This will be my first.
It's worth it to join these writing contests, people, especially ones that offer to publish more than just the winners (like this one did). It's a good experience, and could win you some publications or maybe even awards.

Here's a link to the facebook page. Like us!

Book Review: Retirement Quest: Make Better Decisions by John Hauserman, CFP

2012-02-18T03:00:00.000-08:00

Book Review: Retirement Quest: Make Better Decisions by John Hauserman, CFP

Retirement Quest is a book for those who are reasonably financially secure and responsible as well as those who are in a "wealth building mode". Hauserman takes into account the weakened economy and gives excellent advice on how to choose a financial advisor and make wise decisions that will help you have a financially secure retirement. He discusses everything from life expectancy to risk management to stocks and bonds and the market cycle.

A huge bonus of this book: free websites to help map your retirement goals and make sure they are realistic. The theme throughout the book is that there are no absolutes. A good advisor doesn't try to get you rich quick nor put all your eggs into one basket. Planning and re-planning for your retirement are key, as well as having a GOOD financial advisor. He discusses how to find a good advisor as well as tips on what not to do to grow your investments.

There were a lot of rich terms that were hard to push through. Maybe I'm a less intelligent being, but money and economics and their coinciding terminology baffle me. Near put me to sleep. That was the only downside of this book, mainly because I'm a fiction lover. But for what it is--unbiased advice on how to avoid costly mistakes and find a good financial advisor--it is very useful and well laid out. I give it 4.2 stars. Way to go, John Hauserman!

Book Review: The Ember Gods by Adrea Pearson

2012-02-01T03:00:00.001-08:00

Book Review: The Ember Gods by Adrea Pearson

Sequel to Pearson's "Key of Kilenya," The Ember Gods continues Jacob's adventures in a distant, magical world. In the previous book, Jacob had thwarted the evil Lorkon's plans to take over earth, but had also left his friend Aloren behind in a dangerous, cursed city. He is eager to return, but must wait for a special potion to become ready that will preserve those who accompany him from the Lorkon's evil powers. Though his mind is with Aloren in the other world, he must also deal with his first year of high school on earth and winning over the biased high school basketball coach.

Jacob takes his older brother, Matt, to the other world with him to meet the Makalos and becomes his partner in adventure thereafter, creating a fun and witty relationship between the two brothers. It also keeps the other world creatures and experiences fresh and fun for readers. Jacob's parents are oddly fine with their son's exploits to the foreign world, and I was left wondering why. Pearson answers this toward the end, however, with a very interesting and exciting twist to the plot. New imaginative creatures are introduced and all is wrapped up with an exciting and page-turning ending.

Like the previous book, I was left wanting more. Jacob is an all around good kid whose desires and inclinations warm the heart. It was a rather pleasant 268 page read that was chalk full of entertainment and a happy ending that kept you hanging for the next book, but not too much. It gets 4.4 stars from me. Way to go, Andrea, on a successful sequel!

Book Review: Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson

2011-11-22T17:34:00.000-08:00

Book Review: Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson

Mistborn is a book about a group of rebel Skaa--severely mistreated slaves--band together to end the thousand year reign of the oppressive and terrible Lord Ruler. They knew it was impossible, but they would die trying, fueled by their leader, Kelsier's, unquenchable charisma. Luckily, they find another Mistborn--one with the rare ability to use all Allomancer powers. Small, timid Vin has grown up in the slums, surviving the worst living conditions and the worst kind of beatings. But she never knew she was a Mistborn until Kelsier found her and taught her all he knows.

Vin must learn to overcome her upbringing and learn to trust and infiltrate herself into the noble society. She begins to learn who she really is, and finds and unlikely love.

Sanderson expertly tells the story from various character's viewpoints without giving away too much. His knowledge of politics, metals, and religion, mixed with truly horrific and realistic villains, make the 537 page book an intriguing page turner. I grew to care for the characters and was so glad that this is a trilogy so the characters can live on. I give this book 4.8 stars. As always, way to go Brandon!!

East India Press Writing Contest!

2011-11-18T11:20:00.000-08:00

East India Press and David Farland are holding a writing contest! There's an opportunity to get published and the best thing? Wait for it....................................there's no entry fee! I'm very excited for this! Below are the basic guidelines taken from the website, but CLICK HERE to read up on all of the rules and expectations. Good luck!!

Guidelines:

Your story must be no more than 2,500 words long and written in standard manuscript format. Feel free to download this pre-formatted Microsoft Word file.
Stories must be submitted electronically and must be formatted as either a PDF or Microsoft Word document.
E-mail your electronic short story to shortstorycontest@eastindiapress.com, and be absolutely certain to include your full name and mailing address.
Your story must be suitable for a general audience. It cannot infringe on the copyrights of other properties—such as books, movies, television, or songs.
Contest deadline for submissions is March 1, 2012. Stories may be submitted beginning October 15, 2011.
Only one submission per person.

Best wishes and good luck from all of us at East India Press. Now get writing!

Book Review: The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown

2011-11-14T17:18:00.000-08:00

Book Review: The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown

For anyone who's read "The Da Vinci Code" or "Angels and Demons," you'll remember fit, handsome, scholarly, 40-ish year old Robert Langdon. In "The Lost Symbol" he is tricked into flying to Washington D.C. last minute to give a seminar for his dear friend, Peter Solomon. He finds when he gets there, however, that Peter is actually in trouble and Robert must use his decoding skills to save him and the reputation of Peter's secretive group, the Masons. The villain is truly twisted--having tattooed his entire body except the crown of his head with the ultimate goal of becoming a god in hell--he brutally murders any in his path.

The book revolves around the theory that men are gods, or have the potential to be gods, and touches on questions many face like if we have spirits that live on after death. Even if you don't agree with the ideas presented, they are interesting nonetheless. It is a typical Dan Brown page-turning thriller with unexpected twists that left me shocked--and I'm pretty good at predicting where a story's going--and interesting things to learn about science and the world around us. This book gets 4.8 stars. Keep the educational pager-turners coming, Dan Brown!

Book Review: The Hunger Games trilogy by Suzanne Collins

2011-11-10T10:38:00.000-08:00

Book Review: The Hunger Games trilogy by Suzanne Collins

The Hunger Games trilogy is about Katniss Everdeen, living in the future where the Capitol controls 12 surrounding districts. As a punishment for a past rebellion, the Capitol holds annual Hunger Games where a male and female from each district, ages 12 to 18, are drawn at random and forced to fight each other to the death. Whoever wins is sent home, rich and free from having to participate again.

That is until Katniss and Peeta, the boy from her district, show defiance in order for both to win together. President Snow cannot accept that. As punishment, he forces them back into arena--back into Katniss's worst nightmares. The country is outraged by the turn of events and rebels end up breaking them out of the arena. Peeta is captured by the Capitol, however, and is brutally tortured, made to believe Katniss is a dangerous enemy. Katniss must decide if she will harm him further by acting as the Mockingjay--the face of the rebellion. She must also decide who she loves most, Peeta or her long-time best friend, Gale. Through her challenges, she must also figure out how to go on living.

Katniss's fire and strength are truly admirable. You watch her grow from a naive young woman to someone who has seen too much heartache at such a young age. It is impossible not to cry at her immense heartaches and cheer for whichever beau is your favorite. Luckily, she ended up with my favorite.

The books are clean, though they are gory in parts, and addicting. The characters are realistic, and days after I've finished the books I want more of them. The first two books seem slightly repetitive, but come to completely different ends. She has a lot of "crazy time" where she must recover from the brutality she witnesses, coupled with some "hide in the closet" time. You feel for her and hope her world becomes better. Maybe it does, maybe it doesn't. You'll have to read them to find out. I give these books a 4.7 out of 5. Way to go Suzanne Collins!

Book Review: The Key of Kilenya by Andrea Pearson

2011-11-09T03:00:00.000-08:00

Book Review: The Key of Kilenya by Andrea Pearson

The Key of Kilenya is about a fourteen-year-old boy named Jacob who is driven by wolves into a new world where, he finds, they have been watching him since birth. He uses abilities he never knew he had to help the peaceful Makalos recover a key, the key that is keeping the evil Lorkins out of his world. He finds out at the end, however, that the Lorkins will be coming to steal the key once again and that his world is only safe for one more week.

Just when you think you've "read this before" (if you've read a ton of fantasy such as myself), Pearson surprises you with new, interesting characters such as the silly Minyas, frazzle-brained Dusts, giant man-eating Eetu fish, and Lirone the storm tyrant. It's a fun adventure story you don't want to end. Pearson also does an excellent job portraying Jacob as a real, teenage boy. He blushes, grows angry, and hopes the "girl won't cry" at the right moments. I grew to really like him along with his companions.

It's a fun, short read--292 pages with book club questions at the back--and is appropriate for young and old. And the best part? You know there's more to come! I need to get my hands on part 2, "The Ember Gods" right away. 4.3 stars. Good job, Andrea!

Here is a link to purchase the book, which is actually FREE! Give it a try! http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/68856

Book Review: Bitter Blessings by Christine Mehring

2011-11-05T00:01:00.000-07:00

Book Review: Bitter Blessings by Christine Mehring

Bitter Blessings is gripping from the start. Not only was it well-written, the story was unpredictable. Megan, the protagonist, finds out that her mother was killed in a car accident on the way home from work. A heavy blow, especially after losing their father years before. You feel the grueling process that she, her two sisters, and grandmother must go through after the passing of a loved one. They receive a lot of support from Megan's best friend, Paul's family and their friendly next-door neighbors.

Megan, being the eldest and the sole car owner in the family, must find a job while trying to figure out why her mother's social security number has been flagged. Through this, Megan discovers that she and her family had been living a lie. Through the bitterest of trials, she makes drastic life changes and encounters a multitude of blessings.

Though I expected a little more action, the book was full of realistic characters you grow to love or hate and realistic situations. I even teared up at parts. The story is gripping with unexpected twists, demonstrating God's power to change our hearts and guide is in trial. A nice, short read at 183 pages, especially for the Christian community or anyone who enjoys a good tear-jerking drama. Overall I give the book 4.2 stars. Way to go, Christine Mehring!

HERE IS A LINK to purchase this book off of Amazon.com.

National Novel Writing Month!

2011-10-04T18:25:00.000-07:00

Next month is National Novel Writing Month. Sign up HERE to sign over your time over to writing a "laughably awful yet lengthy prose" together. My user name is Tamster_Da_Hamster. Look me up and let's be buddies!
ONCE AGAIN THE LINK IS HERE. :D Check out the page to find more info!

What to do when a writer gets lost...

2011-09-28T09:11:00.000-07:00

David Farland is an awesome fantasy writer. He does writing workshops and teaches writing classes. Or he used to until his writing career got too busy. Brandon Sanderson and Stephanie Meyer both took his class. :) Anyhow, I get an email from him--about one a day--with awesome writing advice. CLICK HERE IF YOU WANT TO SUBSCRIBE TO HIS EMAILS. Here's what he has to say about getting lost while writing:

I got an email today from a writer who said, “I'm 19 and currently writing a science fiction novel. This is my first novel and I have no idea where to go or what direction to head in. Please, could you give me even an idea of help please, because I haven't an idea of what to do now?” Wow, talk about déjà vu. I felt that way when I was 19, trying to figure out how to finish a novel.
Every writer gets lost, even the great ones. Sometimes we find our way out of the woods, sometimes we don’t. Have you ever noticed that even your favorite writers create works that don’t quite deliver? Pick anyone who has won a Nobel Prize, and you’ll find plenty of works in their career that don’t measure up. I loved the writing of Hemingway, Borges, Steinbeck, Marquez and others, but not all of their works struck me with equal power. Some of their stories were utterly forgettable. Even Shakespeare wrote some forgettable plays.
Hopefully, you’ll find your way out of the mess that you’re in. Tolkien wrote that when he was developing LORD OF THE RINGS, he got his heroes to the gates of Moria and “for many years” he halted. Even Tolkien got lost. In fact, he got lost very soon into the novel. Many critics have suggested that he was good and lost when he wrote about Tom Bombadil. (I’m not going to jump into that fight.) But when Tolkien began writing again, the words just flowed. He’d found his way.
So what do you do when you’re lost?
1) Stay calm. Don’t go off writing in every direction, looking for scenes that aren’t there, making up junk just to exercise your fingers on the keyboard.
2) Figure out where you’re going. Look at your character’s biggest conflicts, biggest problems, and consider how the character will have to react. What goal does your character have next?
Remember that very often when you’re feeling lost, it’s because you’ve actually lost sight of one of your character’s primary needs or conflicts.
3) Look for landmarks. Are there any great stories that you admire similar to what you’re writing? Perhaps if you study them, you’ll find a model for what you’re doing, something that will provide some tips on how to tell your own tale.
But writing courses, books on writing, advice columns, or writer’s blogs might also help you find your way. Those are all “landmarks.”
4) Seek out a guide. You might have to ask a lot of “strangers” for help. Not all guides are equal. Have you ever stopped and asked someone for directions, only to be sent the wrong way?
It happens all of the time when you’re driving, and it happens even more often when you’re writing...be open to advice but not a slave to it. Seek advice, but don’t follow it blindly.
5) Be your own guide. No one else can tell your story for you. It’s too personal. In fact, very often, other people may not even see the story that you’re trying to tell. The truth is, in your writing career you’ll feel lost many times. Most often, it comes when you’re young, when you’re just learning your craft. But the truth is that as we get older, we tend to write more complex stories, and old writers get lost just as often as the new ones.

Congratulations, Blog Hop Winner!

2011-09-25T02:00:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to this month's blog hop, Squiggles, for winning your very own hardback copy of the classic "To Kill a Mockingbird"!

In the sudden silence that followed, Miss Stephanie Crawford called from across the room, "Whatcha going to be when you grow up, Jean Louise? A lawyer?"

"Nome, I hadn't thought about it..." I answered, grateful that Miss Stephanie was kind enough to change the subject. Hurriedly I began choosing my vocation. Nurse? Aviator? "Well..."

"Why shoot, I though you wanted to be a lawyer, you've already commenced going to court."

The ladies laughed again. "That Stephanie's a card," somebody said. Miss Stephanie was encouraged to pursue the subject: "Don't you want to grow up to be a lawyer?"

Miss Maudie's hand touched mine and I answered mildly enough, "Nome, just a lady."

Miss Stephanie eyed me suspiciously, decided that I meant no impertinence, and contented herself with, "Well you won't get very far until you start wearing dresses more often."

Miss Maudie's hand closed tightly on mine, and I said nothing. Its warmth was enough.

Thank you to everyone who participated! You all rock and I loved reading your comments. :D Good luck next time!!!

September Blog Hop: Win Prizes!

2011-09-22T04:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the September Blog Hop! Celebrate the beginning of fall with me and my blogger friends by hopping around, visiting our sites, and entering our contests! There are no limits - you can enter the contest on every blog. With over 40 blogs participating, that's over 40 prizes you could win. Just click on the links below to move on to the next blog.

On my blog, you can win a hardback copy of the Pulitzer Prize novel, "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee.

To win this prize, you need to do two things.

1. Become a follower of this blog.

2. Leave me a comment in the trail and tell me why you'd like to win this prize.

That's it! You are now entered. The contest ends on Saturday night, September 24th, at midnight MST, and the winner will be contacted shortly thereafter. Please either leave your e-mail address in the comment trail or make sure it's visible through your profile so I can contact you to tell you that you're the lucky winner.

Now go visit my other friends ...

September Blog Hop Participants

1. Tristi Pinkston, LDS Author

2. Joyce DiPastena

3. I Am A Reader, Not A Writer

4. Mandi Slack

5. Michael D. Young

6. Six Mixed Reviews

7. Pam Williams

8. Laurie Lewis

9. Kristy Tate

10. Marilyn Yarbrough

11. Stacy Coles

12. Kristie Ballard

13. Lynn Parsons

14. Pushing Past the Pounds

15. Sheila Staley

16. cindy Hogan

17. Jamie Thompson

18. Jaclyn Weist

19. Cathy Witbeck

20. Secret Sisters Mysteries

21. Tamera Westhoff

22. Tina Scott

23. Lynnea Mortensen

24. Danyelle Ferguson aka Queen of the Clan

25. Jeanette A. Fratto

26. Bonnie Harris

27. Melissa Lemon

28. Mary Ann Dennis

29. Stephanie Black

30. Jane Still

31. Janice

32. Laura Bastian

33. Tamara Bordon

34. Betsy Love

35. Maria Hoagland

36. Amber Robertson

37. Debbie Davis

38. Christy Monson

39. Carolyn Frank

40. Rebecca Birkin

41. Melissa Cunningham

42. Emily L. Moir

43. Ronda Hinrichsen

44. Lisa Asanuma

45. Joan Sowards

46. Jordan McCollum

47. Diane Stringam Tolley

Learn more about September Blog Hop here.

Get The Code

Parables for Today Writing Contest!

2011-09-18T17:15:00.001-07:00

I'm all for writing contests, any way to get published is great! Cedar Fort is having a writing contest right now through October 1st, writing a modern day parable. :D It's not as easy as it seems, but give it a try! The deadline is in less than two weeks.

Entry window: May 1 - October 1, 2011
Entry fee: $25 for the first entry, $15 for additional entries
Manuscript length: 300-3000 words
Electronic submission and entry fee payment available

The top five award winners will receive cash, prizes, and publication, but any entry may be included in the anthology (to be published in early 2012).

This year's judges include best-selling authors David Farland, Philip Gulley, Marilyn Brown, and Kenny Kemp.

Entries need not be religious in nature. A parable is really just a narrative that teaches a universal truth.
For an author, publication is crucial, and having your work included in the Parables for Today anthology is one of the best ways to kick-start your career! Good luck!!

More details for the writing contest are HERE.

I've won an award... :)

2011-09-14T19:23:00.000-07:00

The Liebster Blog award! "Liebster, for those of you who cannot speak German, means "friend" and is aimed at those who have fewer than 200 followers.Right now I have less than 200, but some day I'll have more. At any rate, here are the rules...
- Link back to the person who gave you the award. Check out her blog here.

- Pick five other people to give the award to and notify them on their blog.
- Post the award on your blog.
- Bask in the camaraderie of the most supportive people on the Internet—other writers.
- And best of all—have bloggity fun and spread the love.
It will also be fun to follow the blogs back and join more than the other winner blogs who accompany yours.

The winners are...drum roll, please......

Mandi Tucker Slack, author of "The Alias," a gripping suspense novel with a touch of romance and a sprinkling of religion. Just a sprinkling, enough to wet the pallet. :) Check it out!!

Terron James has written The Beholder series, which I have yet to read...but I'm sure they're fabulous!

Stephanie Peterson Abney reviews books and writes...and is darn good at it. :) Check it out!!

Paulette Inman (Pendragon) binds books and writes! Check it out!!

Roseanne Wilkins writes and has a fun blog full of book reviews and other random writing thoughts.

GO CHECK OUT THESE BLOGS AND FOLLOW THEM!!! Sorry...ahem...didn't mean to yell.Pass on the love and lets see how many followers we can help others get.

Tamara

Book Review: Water For Elephants by Sara Gruen

2011-08-22T18:04:00.000-07:00

Water For Elephants by Sara Gruen

Water for Elephants is written from the viewpoint of a 93 year old man named Jacob Jankowski, flashing between his nursing home experience and his life 70 years before. Through both time periods, you get to know and care for Jacob and those around him.

At 23, right before his final exams to become a veterinarian, his parents die, leaving Jacob with a mountain of debt. Depressed and with nothing to lose, he hops on a train, which happens to belong to the Benzini Brothers Most Spectacular Show on Earth. With the circus, he both witnesses and experiences many raw and brutal acts. He falls in love with Marlena, his boss' wife, and forms unlikely friendships.

Animal lovers will appreciate Jacob's relationship with the circus animals. Truth be told, I had to force myself past the first 150 pages or so when Rosie the elephant joins the gang. She is intelligent and stubborn, and you want to scream out in frustration every time Austin--Jacob's boss and Marlena's husband--uses the bull whip on her.

At 93, Gruen does an excellent job at portraying to the reader the frustration Jacob feels at losing his independence. The nurses no longer see him as a person or give him choices, he is losing some of his memory, and he is slowly losing grip on reality. His old-man spunk is sure to make you smile.

The book is written in present time, which took some getting used to. Each chapter is split into sections, and at times I was reminded of the Old Spice commercials. "Now I am here." "Now I am here." These two things brought me out of the books at times, but otherwise it was rather well-written.

Overall, the book is a fun ride with an excellent ending. It could have done without the mountain of vulgar language and handful of explicit scenes, but I'd otherwise recommend it. This book needs an "R Rating" on the front, just as a warning. But otherwise it was good. Hey, I may even see the movie on Blu-ray. I give it 4.2 stars for the creative storyline.

Book Review: The Alias by Mandi Tucker Slack

2011-08-17T18:39:00.000-07:00

The Alias by Mandi Tucker Slack

The Alias is about a woman named Jacey who flees from her villainous ex-husband, toting her nine-year-old son with her. They end up in Mona, UT, at the farm of her best friend's aunt and uncle. She must adjust to a lifestyle completely different than her east coast upbringing while balancing the delicate scale of pretending to be someone she is not. Slack is a master at portraying emotions as Jacey takes you on a ride of guilt, fear, and elation.

Days after finishing the book, I still miss and long to visit Aunt Helen and Uncle Grant's farm. I could almost smell the homemade rolls and fresh cookies wafting from their country kitchen. I long to hear their playful banter, and see the breathtaking views Slack so vividly paints of the beautiful countryside.

Mixed with the joyful contentment, however, is a story of suspense and horror. Gripping scenes of abuse, close-call chases, and intrigue will keep your heart thumping and the pages turning.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves suspense novels, especially if you prefer elements of romance. A must read! It's a fun treat; 201 pages with book club questions in the back. The book is clean, which I appreciate, a short and easy read, and appropriate for all young adults and adults. 4.5 stars in my book. Way to go, Mandi Tucker Slack! I look forward to reading your future novels!

Hanging with author Brandon Sanderson

2011-07-18T13:30:00.000-07:00

Who got to hang with Brandon Sanderson, you ask? Why, that would be ME. :D Saturday I attended Polaris 25, a Sci-Fi/Fantasy Convention in Toronto (I happened to be visiting my brother, who lives 25 minutes away). It' one of those conventions where people dress up as their favorite characters and walk around. ;) I went because one of my favorite authors was going to be there and teaching some panels about writing. Brandon Sanderson. His panels rocked, I got so much good advice from them! After his panels, he had booked 4 hours of Magic, a card game that he loves with a capital L. I love trying new things, so I stuck around, learned, and watched him play and chatted. It was fun! I got some great pointers on writing, and found Brandon to be fun and laid back. Such a fun, worthwhile time!

He was posing with a close-mouthed smile, so I told him to show some teeth. HA! He sure did!

Such a nicer smile. ;)

Every. Day.

2011-05-09T10:37:00.000-07:00

If you want to be a writer, then write. Dedicate yourself to write something every day, even if it's just one sentence or one paragraph. Your body needs to eat and drink each and every day to keep up energy and vitality. Your writing skills are the same. Keep them sharp by using them...Every. Day.!!! ;)

Getting Your Name Out There, author

2011-04-17T09:21:00.000-07:00

This is a great blog my cousin introduced me, with an excellent article about getting your name out there:

Pimp My Novel

Getting Your Name Out There

Posted: 30 Mar 2011 07:00 AM PDT

As I've mentioned a few times, gentle readers, an author's name is a brand, a social currency, a form of capital: it can signal cultural awareness ("Have you read the new book by so-and-so?"), serves as synecdoche for a book's actual content ("Have you read the new Suzanne Collins? Well, she wrote it, it must be good,"), and even acts as a seal of approval (e.g. reviews and blurbs).

So how do you get yours out there?

Well, the most obvious answer is to write a fantastic book that people love. Until then, however, there are a few things you can do to get your name and your writing on readers' radars.

Attend events. There's no substitute for face time, mes auteurs. Attending readings, book signings, panel discussions, conferences, conventions, and other literary events in your genre of interest will not only help you fill out your mental Who's Who, but will help raise your profile among other readers and writers interested in the sorts of books you are.

Write reviews. Just behind talking about themselves, people love reading about themselves. Write reviews of books you love by authors you admire, link to them, and spread a little good karma. The worst that'll happen is your name will be in print or on-line in one more place than it was previously; the best that'll happen is that the author will repost, retweet, link to, or otherwise call out your stellar review, and that can help raise awareness of your name significantly.

Participate in social media. You won't have the time or money to attend every in-person event you'd like, but that doesn't mean you're in any way cut off from the writing community of your choice. Social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter allow you to communicate with people you might never otherwise meet, and maintaining a web presence (website and/or blog) provides you a sort of digital storefront for you and your work. Networking has never been easier than with the biggest network (of networks) on the planet: the Internet.

Publish your short fiction. If you write short stories, submit 'em for publication. A nice array of publication credits in print and/or on-line will not only help build awareness of your brand, but may attract attention from agents and editors. Should you decide to go it alone and self-publish your work electronically, you can sell your short stories on the cheap to attract consumers for your novel. Again: worst case scenario, your name comes up more often in print, in conversation, and/or on-line.

Ideas? Theories? Tried-and-true methods? To the comments with you!

The process of becoming published, for fiction writers...

2011-04-04T06:31:00.000-07:00

Learning the process of becoming published (FICTION only) takes time and research...but I'll give a brief outline of what I've learned:

1) Write a book. A good book. Polish it, send it out to others to review and give feedback to make it awesome. When it's DONE, really done, then move on to the next step. But make sure it's exactly how you want it to be.

2) Write a query letter. An awesome query letter. Here are some sites SFWA, HOW TO WRITE A QUERY LETTER, GTLA. There are other sites, just google "how to write a query letter". It should take several days to perfect it, but perfect it you shall.

3) Write a synopsis and 2 page outline. Some agents will want this. If you need help, google "how to write a synopsis" or "how to write an outline". There are tons of helpful hints out there.

4) Look up literary agents and/or publishers that deal with your genre/type of book. Find the newest "Guide to Literary Agents" and/or "Writer's Market". You can buy them or go to your local library with pen and a couple sheets of paper or a laptop (they are Reference Books, you can't take them home). You can also search online. This takes a long time, but know what each agent/publisher wants and give it to them, reshaping your query letter just a little bit for each agency/publisher.

5) Wait for a response, trying not to bite your fingertips off with anticipation. Send out 5-10 queries at a time. And always remain professional. I wouldn't want to buy a book from some chump.

To raise your chances significantly, use any connections you have in the publishing industry. Seriously, connections are vital. If you don't have connections, like myself, do anything you can to attend a Writer's Conference where agents that deal with your genre will be in attendance. That's as good as having a contact. Seriously, without any connection at all your chances of an agent taking your query seriously are minimal. So hit those Writer's Conferences!

In the meantime, start another book. A better one than the one you're trying to sell. ;) It's a fabulous way to pass the time, and your writing will continue to improve. Good luck!

Book Review: The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson, 4.9 out of 5 stars!

2011-04-04T05:50:00.000-07:00

The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson.
The first thing that strikes me about this novel is the character development. Sanderson has a way of telling a story from the vantage point of several characters without giving away too much information about the plot, a task that is harder than it sounds. Kaladin faces his haunting past and discovers new, awesome abilities...Shallan overcomes her timidity and realizes her strength and unique talents...Dalinar goes against strong cultural beliefs and taunts of those around him to follow his heart. Just to name a few. Each storyline is powerful in its way, drawing you into their struggles and their joys. You get to know so many characters so well, you begin to feel they are your friends. Finishing the book was sorrowful, as if saying farewell to ones you've grown to love, unsure when you'll meet again.

The story is imaginative with awesome attention to detail. You become familiar with so many new places, cultures, beliefs and environments, the images painted vividly in your mind. I want to visit the Shattered Plains, with grass blades that retract when anyone draws near and chasmfiends that are as big as a house. The characters, landscapes, and even the source of power in their world is awesome. I mean...power from highstorms that can be captured in spheres and used? Simple, yet genius. He creates a new world, yet it's completely believable. Nothing is forced. Events occur and characters act logically.

Sanderson has the knack for creating stories that are unpredictable; this book is no different. To say the least, it is completely refreshing and kept me totally intrigued. (To my children's chagrin...I think they felt quite neglected.)

The only cons I could think of were the grammatical errors which, while they are obnoxious and have the smell of being less professional, really boil down to being rather unimportant. I mean, I may have read one book that didn't have some something misspelled or an extra word somewhere.

Also, there were a few parts that seemed to drag, mainly when describing the history of their world. But that information is imperative to the story, adding to the mystery and rich detail of the culture, so it isn't a complete con. Just something to "get through" in very minute parts of story. But then again, that could just be me.

This book gets 4.9 stars from me. An excellent and entertaining read I would highly recommend for anyone who has even the slightest interest in fantasy. It's not for the slight of heart, however, with 1001 pages! But you'll be soaking up every last page. Way to go, Brandon Sanderson! You've created awesomeness once again. May you hurry with the sequel!

A glimps into the writing process...

2011-03-03T15:08:00.000-08:00

Ready and rearin' to go...


Clickety clack, clickety clack...

hhmmmmm...what next?...

Oh yes, that's goooooood...

Oh man, I must be butter 'cause I'm on a roll...

This part is sex-aaaaaay

What now? I can't think!

"What protagonist? What did you say? Oooh, good idea. I'll write that down..."

...as always, getting as much clickety clacking in until the monstrous 2 yr old awakes from his peaceful slumber...

THE END

I had a dream...

2011-02-07T10:18:00.000-08:00

I had a dream last night, though it wasn't about world peace. It was inspiration for my next book. I was worried because, though I love to write, I wasn't coming up with any good, original ideas. As soon as I woke up (good thing it was 6:45a.m. and not earlier), I ran (or trudged as fast as my sleepy self could) to the computer and wrote a brief summary. The main conflict that seemed great when I was half asleep, however, isn't good enough for those completely awake. So I've got some serious thinking to do. But the main idea is fun and when it's done it's going to be awesome...I just know it. ;) Hooray for dreams!

Editing, editing, and more....yes, editing

2010-10-18T10:00:00.000-07:00

Editing is such a huge part of writing. It took me three months to write my first novel, but it has taken three years to edit (partially because of LIFE, partially because it takes so darn long). Now, with awesome feedback I've received, I'm editing some more.
I am currently reading through my cousin's book. She wrote a YA science fiction novel. It is so much easier to look at someone else's work and say, "Hey, change this. Delete that," than your own. YOU know what you want to say. YOU know what feeling you want to come across. But the ultimate test is...does everyone else understand it, too?
I feel like I could edit forever and never have a complete, finished work that doesn't need some tweaking. I guess at some point you just need to throw in the towel and say, "It's good enough."

Feedback, FINALLY!

2010-10-04T06:21:00.000-07:00

Up until now very few people knew that I've written a book. However, the other day I announced it on facebook. :D I guess I waited (3 YEARS) because I was a bit sensitive about it and didn't want to feel the sting of lack-of-support. I tend to be that way...when something is really important to me I hold it close to me to protect it; and to avoid getting hurt. Now I'm much more secure and am glad it's out there: I've written a book. I've used words to create new worlds and creatures and emotions...And I absolutely LOVE it.
When I've told others that I've written a book they act really impressed, like it is a huge feat. But the way I see it is anyone could write a book...it doesn't mean it'll be any good. My book is pretty good. Not great, but pretty darn good. But "good" doesn't get published.
After I'd made the facebook announcement, three people asked to read it and give feedback. I was, and still am, ecstatic! Two were friends and one was my cousin, who has actually written a book herself and is working on another. She sent the first chapter back with AWESOME feedback! She's been to two writer's conferences and it shows she learned something. :) Another friend has been published and writes for a journal. The third friend is in the process of writing the story of her life. I'm so, so excited to get feedback from these ladies!!
And not to mention my sister-in-law who is reading it right now. :D She's very observant so I know I'll get good feedback from her.

Yeah!! :D Last time I had sent it to six people and you know how many people responded? ONE. This time looks to be more promising. :D

Book 1: Complete

2010-09-18T13:28:00.000-07:00

So I've finished book one and am almost half way done with the second. I've had SUCH FUN with these characters and almost can't imagine creating more...as if I'd be cheating on the ones I've already made. :) I hope this trilogy will ROCK! as much as I hope, and that if it's in the cards I'll be LUCKY enough to have it published one day. :)
Well that'd just be fantastic.

Hooray for the written word!!!

2010-08-09T05:05:00.000-07:00

I am so astounded by how much I LOVE to write! I've never enjoyed ANYTHING quite so much! It's the feeling I'd get when I started dating an incredible guy. I think about it night and day, while I'm in the shower and eating my meals and falling asleep at night. I LOVE what I'm doing and even if I never get published, that's good enough for me! (Although I would REALLY love to get published some day!)
HOORAY FOR THE WRITTEN WORD!!! :D

Nooooooooooooo!

2010-05-03T19:54:00.000-07:00

So today I went to the library to print my free 75 pages...Yes, I'm printing my book to send to two publishers. WELL, I have my book saved on my Sandisk thumb drive and I took it with me. As I was trying to print my pages I had my 16 month old wriggling around in my lap and my three year old was destroying a "Learn Spanish" tape sooooooooo needless to say I was a bit distracted and forgot to take my thumb drive OUT of the computer. I realized it a couple of minutes after leaving the library and rushed back in to get it and it was gone!!!!
So one of two things happened. Either my 16 month old ripped it out and threw it somewhere during the few seconds he was at the computer alone OR the homey sitting next to me stole it to make a quick buck. It was old (and the metal thingy that goes into the computer was totally bent!) so a buck is all he'd get. But it's worth so much more to me; it had over a week's worth of revisions on it! I couldn't find it ANYWHERE in the library! I even crawled around people's stinky feet looking for it! :D
Well if the hoodlum did steal it the worst thing he could do is publish my book in his name, right? :(

Revisions, revisions, revisions...

2010-04-30T08:37:00.000-07:00

So I just wanted to say I am so proud of myself. :) I started reading Violet, my first book of the series, again and WOW! The best thing you can do is take a break from your book and go back and read it. It needs a lot of tuning up and it's easier to see the flaws when it's not still so fresh in your mind. So now I read and I can say, "What the heck was I trying to say?" or "I didn't complete this sentence," etc. It's great!
Hooray for me. (Pat on the back.) :D Hooray for revisions!

Six

2010-04-12T16:00:00.000-07:00

Six. That's how many people currently have a copy of my book emailed to them to read and give me feedback. I'm so grateful for them and can't wait to hear how I can improve the book!
Until I get their feedback I've decided to stop querying...you're not supposed to query until your book is super polished. :) So I shall wait (PATIENCE IS A VIRTUE, RIGHT?...I think I read that somewhere anyway)...and I need to continue working on the sequel again! I've sure been slacking! Now back to the key board...clickity clack...clickity clack...clickity clack...Oh what a beautiful sound...

Rejected!!

2010-03-18T14:19:00.000-07:00

:D So I got rejected, and not just by Nelson but by five or six others...ha! I decided to query a few more...why not? :D
Once our computer gets fixed I can query some more. :)
Yeah, such a fun process! :S
Actually, it really is fun...it stings a little tiny bit each time I read a rejection letter but , as my husband says, it's just one more rejection in the ladder until I hook someone. :) And although the rejections aren't fun I don't fear them and I just have hope that it will work out eventually. I mean, it only takes one person!!

First Query

2010-03-04T08:52:00.000-08:00

I sent out my first query letter today to Nelson Literary Agency...I received feedback from my sister (she loved it, but it's hard to know if it's because it was really good or she was just surprised I could produce something decent--that's the only negative about receiving feedback from friends and family), but haven't heard from my sister-in-law or friend...I got impatient. :D I guess I did it because I'm not really expecting this agency to want my book...well, not completely. I wouldn't have queried them if I had absolutely no chance...but the chances are slim and I wanted to do SOMETHING. So here it goes.
Now I just have to wait for their rejection. :D But I'm glad to be getting the ball rolling!

Patience

2010-02-03T08:27:00.000-08:00

I have sent my manuscript to three people: my sister, sister-in-law, and a friend...and I am going crazy waiting for their feedback! :D I am not a very patient person in the first place, and I've been writing query letters for the agencies I want to query first, which is making me even more anxious! HA! :)~ I CAN'T WAIT! I CAN'T WAAAAAAIT!! :D

But patience is a very good thing to exercise; you need it in all aspects of life, especially with kids. ;)
I'm hoping for lots of brutally honest feedback. In the end I just want a really good story that can entertain!...And maybe get people thinking, if even just a little bit.
I'm so grateful for these three ladies for taking the time to help me polish my manuscript. Time is valuable and I'm flattered they would spend some of their's reading my story. :D

The Query Letter

2010-02-01T10:08:00.000-08:00

I'm on the fourth...or is it fifth?...day of trying to get my query letter down. It's very difficult to summarize the plot and make it catchy...making the agent want to read the manuscript. I keep doing it and redoing it and I can make it short...but not interesting enough! Aaaaaaah! I am just grateful there are a bounty of resources telling how to write one...
A few good ones are: SFWA, HOW TO WRITE A QUERY LETTER, GTLA

And so off I go (I can procrastinate no longer) to exercise my brain and perfect the imperfectable. :D

A Lot to Learn

2010-01-27T10:23:00.000-08:00

This is the first entry of my writing blog...Yes, I've written a book and am currently working on the sequel. Since I could read I've always loved, loved, loved it. To this day when I find a good book my nose attaches to it like neodymium-iron-boron magnets to a refrigerator...The world passes me by while my mind is filled with fairies and nymphs and goblins and characters I feel I know and care about...
But I had never dreamed of writing myself--even when I took the Creative Writing class in college--until October 2007 when I sat down to check my email and thought, "I'm going to write a book!". I intended it to be a children's book, but VIOLET refused to be told quite so simply and a couple months later I had the rough draft of a Young Adult fantasy novel.
A very, very rough draft...nonetheless I sent it to Cedar Fort publishers and they told me that I had a lot of talent and gave suggestions for improvement (stating I should resend the manuscript when the improvements were made). In the authorship world that is huge! So as I moved toward making improvements I got pregnant with our second child...and I got very ill (I am blessed with completely miserable pregnancies). :) Needless to say it took me a year and a half to resend the manuscript and by then (the economy was on the downturn and) they replied saying it was imaginative, but they couldn't successfully market my type of book.
So here I am, months later, still trying to make improvements on the manuscript and learn about the world of publishing. There's a LOT to learn! I spent three hours at the library last night writing down the names of agencies and publishers that work with my genre and there are still so many more to discover!
Once my manuscript is to my liking--and my query letter is sparkling with perfection--I will send out queries like the world is on the brink of termination!
I can't believe how much I just LOVE to write! I will do it forever and look forward to dabbling in all types of genre of fiction and non-fiction. Hooray for the written word!! And so here I will sit...clicking away...