Reader's Den

Black Earth: The Broken Daisy by David N. Alderman

2012-03-13T10:17:00.000-07:00

*Giveaway Bonus*

If you enjoy the review below and would like to win the Black Earth Double Pack (End of the Innocence and The Broken Daisy, the first two books in the Black Earth series), here are the terms and details about entering into the giveaway:

1.) It's international, and the winner will receive both End of the Innocence and The Broken Daisy in one e-book Double Pack. Two commenters can win this double pack.
2.) You must leave a comment by March 17, 2012 on some aspect of the review. Something like 'enter me in the drawing' won't count.

3.) Add your e-mail address at the end of your comment so, if you are selected, author David Alderman can contact you.

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Here's my review of Black Earth: End of the Innocence (Book One)

Book two of the Black Earth series, The Broken Daisy, starts with Nathan Pierce and Cynthia "Sin" Ruin hanging low in the same hotel room book 1 ends in. Daisy, Nathan's sister, is being held captive by a 'man dressed in red' courtesy of President Amanda Stone's orders. Because Daisy and Nathan faked the barcodes everyone has to wear, Amanda wants to murder Daisy as a warning to the American public of what will happen to them if they don't obey.

While Nathan paces around, trying to figure out how he and Cynthia can best escape from the hotel and find his sister, Cynthia is asleep after crying herself into exhaustion. Daisy would've never been captured had her mother, Theresa Ruin, not betrayed them. Cynthia was only able to rescue Nathan. Now she has no mom, no father, and no friends. Nothing but the big bag with belongings she can't let go of.

The odds are against them, what with the world falling apart and many groups after Nathan's life, but that doesn't stop Nathan and Cynthia from making a run for it and starting their journey.

The Broken Daisy essentially has five main storylines, five main subplots, that all come together to show just how immense the story as a whole is.

1.) Nathan wants to rescue his sister, find his soul mate Pearl, and learn his purpose.

2.) President Amanda Stone, who is working with Legion and the devil, wants to become a dictator. However, journalist Ericka Shane and her partner are determined to reveal a recording to the world that will help the citizens of America rally against her. Fortunately, she has the help of a mysterious man named Absolute.

3.) Jasper and Hush, two powerful wedges from the now destroyed Rhodenine, have seen Legion and Evanescence destroy two worlds before earth. Their goal is to help the humans on earth by stopping Legion and Evanescence for good.

4.) The Vector group and the Time Protection Society (TPS) are against each other. Vector is the only agency that knows about the TPS and the only agency that can stop them. Joseph, an agent who works side-by-side with Heather (Nathan's best friend), represents the Vector side of the story, as well as a more corrupt lady named Sarah. Theresa Ruin, Cynthia's corrupt mom, represents the TPS side of the story, as well as a kind man named Macayle.

Time alteration plays an important part in how Nathan's journey came to be. When I realized time alteration was involved, I really fell for The Broken Daisy, but I also have a weak spot for stories that mess with the time space continuum.

5.) SilverTech industries is ran by a megalomaniac who is obsessed with Hush and constantly sending people after her to bring her back to him (in book one, she was practically his slave). Mr. Silver's main goal is to have enough ships created to send a number of (selected) humans to a planet called Anaisha when earth is destroyed, a planet he plans to be the God of.

There are more than five subplots, but mentioning them all could make for a very long review. When I reviewed End of the Innocence, book one, I mentioned that the story sometimes feels like it has one too many POVs. It's still true in book two; when reading this novel, it's important to keep track of the characters and storylines as best as you can. However, in The Broken Daisy, I felt it was more genius than overwhelming. In a series about the world falling apart, it only makes sense that there would be so many layers adding to the downfall.

My favorite characters are Ericka Shane, Macalay, and Joseph. So many adults in this story who have power are corrupt. I not only really like these characters because they're kind and ambitious in spite of being adults with power, but because their personalities really sat well with me. Ericka was my favorite character in book one. I was glad to see more of her.

I liked Evanescence least, mostly due to the fact that everything about her reminds me of a stereotypical evil witch. And I wasn't quite sure how to feel about Griffin. His storyline and his characterization was definitely interesting, but it also...confused me until the readers are later shown what makes him so special. Nathan and the teens are definitely characterized well. Sometimes you love them; sometimes, not so much. That's fine. In fact, I think that's how it should be. Shades of grey make them very realistic.

Religion plays a much higher role in this book than it did in the first, since almost every main protagonist struggles with their belief in God. Still, I never get the feeling that religion is stuffed down my throat or that it interrupts the excitement of the story overall. However, if you'll be reading this story mostly for the sci-fi, apocalyptic aspects, be aware that God and the devil plays a considerably large part in this series.

Only a few plot aspects confused me: Griffin's storyline and the affect he seems to have on other characters; how time passes in general. Does book one and two only span two days? I'm not really sure. Even though Nathan kept saying only one day had passed, I had a hard time wrapping my mind around which times they slept were just a short nap or which times they slept were overnight. Plus, time may have passed differently in other POVs; smaller subplots, like Jennifer's time traveler subplot or Olivia's psychic/time traveler (?) subplot. Maybe it's because they won't really get explained until book 3, but I couldn't quite grasp their overall purpose.

In all, though, I really liked Black Earth: The Broken Daisy. Time travel, aliens, demons, psychics, betrayal, romance (oh man, the romance drama in this story is intense), mysteries, secret organizations, evil witches, hellhounds, battles, Legion (I LOVED how creepy Legion was. That fight with a Legion-possessed human in Walmart made my day)...there is so much to this wild story that's worth the ride. I think David deserves much more attention and success for this series.

Click here to see about the double pack, which combines book 1 and book 2!

Find David Alderman

The New Death and Others by James Hutchings

2012-03-06T10:00:00.000-08:00

44 stories, 19 poems, all wrapped into a 100-page book. Usually this is the paragraph where I'd summarize the plot or, when reviewing a short story collection, the theme connecting the stories. That's not something I can easily do for 'The New Death and Others.'

Inside you'll find satires, parables, and allegorical gods. Some stories, like 'The Adventure of the Murdered Philanthropist,' might as well be punny B-movies in story form. Some are really short and read like comedy sketches, such as 'The New God,' while others are long and verbose - 'How the Isle of Cats Got its Name,' for instance. Then there are the poems. Though the lengths vary as much as the lengths of the stories vary, they all rhyme.

Organization was my biggest problem with this collection, next to the verbose stories that either confused or frustrated me ('The God of the City of Dust' both confused and frustrated me). After a while, jumping from a punny story to a parable to a poem became jarring. When I finished the book and looked over my notes, I realized that I really liked a majority of these stories. However the lack of organization distracted me from appreciating the stories while I was reading them. This book could easily be broken up into separate books - one book in dedication to the parables, one book in dedication to the allegories, one book in dedication to the fiction with a specific plot, etc.

'Todd' appealed to me the most. I loved that story. A boy shares what his last odd, surreal experiences with Todd, a kid who was murdered, were like. It can be offensive here and there, but I feel like that's just because the story is told from the first person point of view of someone who happens to legitamely think those things. I loved the style, the voice, the feeling that the narrator was really talking to me.

As far as poems go, 'The Apprenticeship' was my favorite. Death is about to take the soul of this person's lover. But, because Death is tired of his job, he makes a deal with said person - I'll let your lover live if you become my apprentice.

Putting organization and verbosity aside, most of the short stories themselves were amusing and well-written. I felt James Hutchings did best with parables, poems, allegories, and snapshot stories. Hutchings excels in metaphors, similes, and powerful detail/word usage that sticks with the reader.

I'm torn about this collection. Sometimes I loved it; sometimes not so much. However, I like it enough to recommend it to those who wouldn't mind a quirky collection of stories and poems that will mostly make you smile or think.

Microsoft OneNote - An Author's Best Friend

2012-02-28T07:20:00.000-08:00

As a writer, I'm constantly coming up with new worlds, new characters and new storylines to fill the novels that I write. I find it can be somewhat difficult keeping a good mental picture of some of my characters - especially minor ones, and setting can be difficult to keep straight too, considering I make most of my locations up and I don't always have all of the details of those settings sketched out before I begin writing about them.

To start with, for years now I've had a bookshelf full to the brim of folders full of individual character profiles, including bio sheets and magazine cutouts of people who I think resemble some of my characters. Overall the notebooks are fun to put together, but I'd rather have something of a more convenient reference, especially since I'm on the computer 100% of the time I'm working on a novel. I also wanted some of my bookshelf space back to display all of the books I'm behind on reading.

So I've been on the hunt for a while now for a program that could give me a visual cornucopia of reference options. I found one or two programs - most made by indie developers - but they either weren't worth the money or they were just too convoluted and confusing that they would be too much hassle to learn to use.

Then I stumbled on Microsoft OneNote. This handy little gem has everything I could possibly want in a writer's assistant.

*A side note - all images you see in my screenshots are copyright their respective creators. I am simply showing the screenshots as an example of what I am able to do with Microsoft OneNote.*

To start with, on the left side you have notebooks. You can create as many notebooks as you like, color them whatever color you'd like, title themwhatever you'd like.

Then each notebook is separated into sections (I call them tabs). Again, these tabs can be colored whatever color you like, titled whatever you want.

Inside of each tab, you can create pages. You can even create subpages branching under these pages.

I use Microsoft OneNote for all sorts of nifty writerly things. I create notebooks for each of my writing projects. Then I create tabs. Say I'm in a notebook regarding a novel I'm working on. I'll create tabs for characters, setting, research, etc.Then under these tabs, I'll create pages.

For example, for a novel I currently have on the back burner, Dark Horizons, I have a tab for characters. Under the character tab, I have a page for Carrie Green.

Now, it's the pages that bring it all together. I'm able to drag and drop pretty much anything I want into the page itself. When you start typing text, it creates a text box that you can move around anywhere within the page. You can drop images from the internet, your computer, etc. You can resize these pictures and move them wherever you want.

You can even drop documents - and audio - into the page - like I did with the Word doc of Carrie's character profile above or like what I did on this page of future projects that need to be worked on. All I have to do is click on the icon and it will open the appropriate document on my computer.

Aside from characters, I also like to use OneNote for
novel research -

Creature creation -

Setting reference-

And I can even outline with it - just to keep all the elements of the novel together.

Having all these visual references have really helped me craft my novel more easily. I'm able to copy images from the internet so I can see what I want my characters to be wearing. I can drop documents for easy reference. I can craft my text boxes in a creative way to add to my own presentation of the applicable materials.

All in all, OneNote has become a very useful tool in my writer arsenal, giving me many of the things I need to craft my stories and work on my marketing, without all the hassle of confusing applications.

For more information on Microsoft OneNote, follow this link to Microsoft's official page on it. When crafting this post, OneNote 2010 was only $79.99 and it is a standalone Office product, meaning you can purchase it separate from the other Microsoft Office programs like Excel and Word. Keep in mind that Microsoft OneNote 2007 was used for these screenshots, so major/minor improvements may have been made since.

33 A.D. (Bachyir, Book 1) by David McAfee

2012-02-27T11:53:00.001-08:00

*Giveaway Bonus*

The giveaway contest is closed! The winner of the signed, print copy of 33 A.D. is Lane Mahnke.

I hope you enjoy the review and check the book out.

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When former Enforcer Ephraim breaks the laws of his people to follow another, the Council sends Theron after him - not only to kill Ephraim, since the Bachyir don't believe in mercy when it comes to betrayals, but to figure out who could have made an Enforcer as loyal as Ephraim stop working for them.

After a fairly quick massacre, Theron reports back to the Council that Jesus of Nazareth was the one who Ephraim betrayed them for. Just as Theron expected, the Council orders him to take Jesus out. However, when Theron goes to the Garden of Gethsemane, he learns the task won't be as easy as he thought. The glow of faith around Jesus is so strong that he can't even get close to him. Plus, Jesus has hundreds of followers. To fully satisfy the Council, he'll have to put a lot more thought into how he'll murder Jesus.

Meanwhile, the bodies of the two guards Theron recklessly murdered on his way to report back to the Council about Ephraim has the city in a stir. The guard he beheaded, Didius, turns out to be the beloved brother of Marcus, the intelligent and powerful centurion who works right under Pontius Pilate. Pilate's order to take out the murderer who killed the guards becomes much more personal.

33 A.D. has multiple sub-plots and POV switches. Taras, Marcus's best friend and a secret assassin who is just a regular legionary (soldier) as far as everyone else knows, is determined to marry Mary, even though a Jewish woman is not allowed to marry a Roman man and her father hates him. But, before Taras can really consider starting a new life with Mary, he wants to show his loyalty to Rome one last time by helping Marcus uncover and hunt down the murderer of Didius. Taras was probably my most favorite character of this story with Marcus following closely behind.

Marcus and Taras are convinced that Theron is a follower of Jesus and that Jesus played a part in the murders, so, just like that, Jesus ends up being hunted by both Theron and Marcus. Theron's purpose is to brutally take out Jesus for the Council and make it look like zealots did it, as well as take out anyone that Jesus may have revealed the vampire secret to.

Basically, there is a lot going on.

There are four parts. At the beginning of part four, I was a bit nervous that all of the sub-plots would become too much, but I don't think they overwhelmed the author and they didn't overwhelm me. I feel like everything was tied up and handled as they should have been. For a story dealing with something as intense as the massacre of Jesus (albeit before they knew just how powerful Jesus could be), I liked the feeling of the plot also being large and intense to compensate.

If anything, Theron has a knack for killing the wrong character at the wrong time, and this story is definitely a tragedy with a large death count. Theron was perhaps my least favorite character - not so much because he is a bad guy who is ruthless about killing, but because, in spite of how intelligent and powerful he seemed, he was also rather reckless. Like in most tragedy stories, most of his undoing was unknowingly at his own hands.

Overall, I liked the story and would recommend it to anyone who has grown tired of flowery vampires. Plus, it has vampires trying to take out Jesus. I mean, come on, something that crazy and unexpected is too interesting to pass up.

Author David McAfee

Find David McAfee

33 A.D. on Smashwords

33 A.D. on Kindle

33 A.D. (Print) on Amazon

33 A.D. (Print) on B&N

33 A.D. on Nook
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Tamed by Douglas Brown

2012-02-20T15:41:00.001-08:00

*Giveaway Bonus*

And the giveaway contest is closed! The winner of a bookmark and either a print copy of Tamed by Douglas Brown or Legends Reborn (The Light of Epertase, Book One) by Douglas Brown is Lilian!

I hope you enjoy the review. ^_^

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It all started in 1993 when Bernard, a young, ambitious CEO, brought a team of mercenaries to a small village with only one goal in mind - bring back one male and kill everyone else.

Eighteen years later, Bernard's merciless massacre has made him a billionaire. The one male he brought back was all he needed to start a whole farm of werewolves, or wergs, that he could sell to the public as pets or guard dogs. The werepets are on commercials, discussed on late night shows, and in people's homes. They're more powerful than a dog, yet less beastly than a werewolf...well, at least when they've been trained and reprogrammed, and being trained doesn't always mean they'll remain domesticated.

The public has no idea that the wergs are humans.

Christine, a devoted paramedic for the fire station who originally wants no involvement with werepets whatsoever, soon finds out the hard way about all of the WereHouse's lies when she is attacked by a rogue werg on what she and her partner figured was just a routine EMS call. Though the werewolf didn't bite her, enough of its blood mixes with hers for her to feel all the tell-tale changes of transformation.

The day she transforms, her world changes. It's up to her and her new rogue hunter companion to put an end to Bernard's crimes and bring those crimes to the light, but Bernard is forever the survivor. The goal will be far from an easy one.

When I do book reviews, the stars don't really mean anything to me. I generally give all my reviews a 4-star because I generally like all the books I review. If I don't like the book, I'll give it a 3-star. I've just never been a 1-2 star person because I haven't read many stories that I feel are that terrible. Plus, I'd rather people focus on my review and not the stars. Anyway, what I'm getting at is that I haven't clicked 5-stars in a while, but I knew I'd give this book 5-stars when I was about 50 pages from the end.

Tamed is a story that jumps between four interconnecting POVs. It's a good balance that serves the purpose of showing the story from a variety of different angles. We get to see the rogue hunter lifestyle, the training and reprogramming lifestyle, the mastermind's lifestyle, and the lifestyle of a normal, hard-working woman who gets dragged into the conflict by chance. When POV switches are well-done, all the plots foreshadow and complement each other until, at the very end, they've all matched up and ended. These POV switches were masterfully done.

I despised, yet even felt sorry at points, for the characters that Douglas wanted the readers to despise. I cheered for the protagonists, my favorite being rogue hunter Aiden. He became one of my favorite characters soon after he was introduced. I don't know what it is with rogue hunter characters and me, but ever since Pip became my favorite character in the Hellsing OVA, I've just had a soft spot for these rough hunters whose lives only revolve around murdering their targets even though they would like something more. My second favorite character was Billy, Christine's humorous partner.

The whole story was wonderful throughout, but the climax and ending was awesome! I loved how the villain was taken care of. As much as I disliked Bernard, I had to give him kudos for being such a damn smart survivor. I'm tired of stupid villains. Sure, I want them to get what they deserve, but I love it when the protagonists have one hell of a job getting him down. Oh, speaking of protagonists having one hell of a job....

Douglas Brown was not afraid to harm his characters, both mentally and physically. That's also an extremely refreshing sight. I felt genuinely like the protagonists' adventure and journey was an arduous, deadly one and I respect them all the more for getting through such an ordeal.

In fact, I've come to respect Brown's skill as a storyteller altogether. I will definitely be reading his other books, that's for sure.

Douglas's 95 lb. Doberman, Eko. Also, his inspiration for Tamed.

Find Douglas Brown

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Write What You Know: Lights, Camera… Setting?

2012-02-15T12:30:00.000-08:00

We’ve all heard it before. Setting is as vital to any storyas its characters. It can drive motivation, entire scenes, even the plotitself. But we’ve also heard the old adage writewhat you know. Don’t let that fool you into playing it safe. Writing whatyou know doesn’t mean every story you write takes place in your hometown or thecity you currently live in. Writing what you know, in terms of setting, meansyou take an atmosphere and insert it seamlessly into the story without havingto draw every detail from real-life experiences.

For instance, Die forMe (Amy Plum) is a book that centers its protagonists in Paris, France. Themain character is an American who is forced by tragedy to relocate to the (inmy opinion, STUFFY) European city. It’s uncommon enough that to describe it forits intended audience (young Americans) presents an opportunity to provide themwith an unconventional place that gives off the atmosphere of wonder. It suitsthe purposes of the novel well. However, I can guarantee you that, if you wantto place your story in Paris, it isn’t necessary for you to take a trip thereand explore every corner of the place, first-hand, and transpose yourexperience into the book.

It’s all about balance. A clever mix of imagination andreality can blend finely to accentuate the world-building of your book with afew easy tricks.

1. Take yournovel to a place no one’s ever been before. This is a tricky one thatusually involves a lot of time dedicated to building your world—as in,continent, globe, atmosphere, whatever the story encompasses—and giving it itsown depth. Good examples of this are Underthe Never Sky (Veronica Rossi), TheLord of the Rings (J. R. R. Tolkien) and Homeland (R. A. Salvatore). They individually construct a wholeuniverse from scratch and the details within that make it complete. This methodis especially popular with high fantasy books.

2. Thisplace looks familiar, but there’s something different here. This technique drawsdirectly from writing what you knowand adds a twist on it, in terms of specific areas of the city or country.Authors who use this approach are often very in-tune with the setting, i.e. thecity, and give it a flare that’s important to the book. For good examples, notethe City of Bones in City of Bones(Cassandra Clare), which the main characters access in Brooklyn, New York (theauthor’s city of residence, as well as the protagonists’). It is stated by oneof the characters that the City of Bones has many entrances, one of which justso happens to be in New York, and the City of Bones itself is integral to theprogression of the novel. Another good example lies within Little Brother (Cory Doctorow), where the main characters areinvolved in an AlternateReality Game called Harajuku Madness, and they meet up at a café in San Franciscothat drives the entire premise for the rest of the novel. The city is specificand the author demonstrates obvious intimate familiarity with it, but heinserted the café in the city where the characters encounter something thatchanges their lives forever.

3. Somethingfeels different? Make it the norm. Because I don’t have any insight on anyauthors who have taken this approach for their books, I can’t provide examples,but I can say that another way of straying from using strictly what you know and onlywhat you know is using what you happened across once. Maybe it was an unusuallycold and foggy day in the middle of fall when that kind of weather for your townis reserved for early spring. Maybe the summer temperatures were an all-newhigh this year and that’s extremely uncommon, a record, in fact. Use that!Place your characters in a strange situation and either instate it in a common,well-known city or make it its own city with that very characteristic as anormal thing. In Threshold (BillMyers), it’s an extremely hot summer that isn’t lost on the story’s maincharacters, to whom this fact becomes integral in their discoveries of theirfates as the novel progresses.

4. Threewords: Compile it all. Use a street from your old neighborhood, a nearbyconstruction zone from a vacation house you spent the summer in when you were7, the distance of your high school and the cramped quarters of your firstapartment with a roommate to develop the block on which your character lives.Make it believable enough to flesh out. It’s like Cobb says in Inception: “Use details, a stop sign, alamp post, never entire areas. It’s the easiest way to lose your grip on what’sreal and what isn’t.” …Not an exact quote haha. But it gets the point across.Maybe not the second part, but the first part for sure.

If you’ve never been to Oregon AND have no. freakin. clue.what it’s like there, but it’s important to the characters and story thatevents transpire there, Option 1, Option 2 and Option 3 are probably not thebest choices for you. If your world grew up on its own and is meant to notresemble anything like our current world, Option 2, Option 3 and Option 4 areprobably not gonna be your friend. Point is, find a medium, get your angle andwork it. You’re not going to convince a reader who has lived in Amsterdam forthree-fourths of their life that your character has too if you’re going for theraw details-of-the-environment approach and it rings more true to the tune ofMichigan than Amsterdam.

At the very least, do your damned research. Characters aremeant to be propelled by their environment. They need a place to be with enoughlife, reality and stamina to sustain their propulsion. Don’t embarrassyourself, but don’t be afraid to explore either.

Spur of the Moment by Candace Bowen Early

2012-02-13T16:00:00.000-08:00

*Giveaway Bonus*

The contest is CLOSED! The winner of both a signed copy of A Knight of Silence and a signed copy of Spur of the Moment along with signed bookmarks is Heather. Enjoy the review!

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Bronwyn Chase is a popular historical romance writer whose books have consistently made the New York Times bestseller list. Women of various ages love her work, but all the attention Bronwyn receives does little more than overwhelm her. When the story begins, Bronwyn is a young woman who doesn't really live life so much as lets it happen. She's on a plane to New York City, even though she hates planes and would rather stay at home to write, largely due to the demands of her controlling agent.

Throughout her rough childhood, writing was the only thing that brought her peace. All those stories about the medieval world and knights in shining armor came so naturally to her that she often felt more like she belonged in that time period than the 21st century...

Well, as it turns out, that trip to New York City that Bronwyn dreaded so much ends up being exactly what she needed. There she learns that she DOES belong in the 12th century.

First she meets Albert, a chauffeur who quickly becomes one of her closest friends. When she agrees to explore the town with him, she and Albert notice that a beautiful woman wearing a dress from the middle ages keeps popping up everywhere they go and eerily watching from afar, but Albert and Brownyn ignore and soon forget about her as the night goes on.

As soon as Bronwyn is alone, the woman asks a favor of Brownyn that will forever change her life: Can you save my son by winning his heart? However, there's a major problem. Beside having to go back to the 12th century, she has to win the heart of a man who is being bewitched by a sick, powerful wicce...in less than four days.

When it comes to stories that take place in more than one timeline and country and it's well done, I always want to take my hat off to the writer. Candace Bowen Early must've put so much research and time into getting all the facts straight within this story. Of course, having not done the research myself, I can't be certain if the facts are straight, but it's at least straight enough to never knock me out of the story.

I loved when Bronwyn's modern day English threw the people in the 12th century off. The moments of miscommunication and confusion made me smile. I also really liked how Early foreshadowed so many plot points that would prove to be important later. That spur that got Bronwyn to the 12th century? Don't forget it. The power of belief? Don't forget it.

Because I haven't really been a big fan of romance novels since middle school, I'm not sure how much values this holds coming from me, but at some points I felt the romance was too much, almost like I was being force fed how much Bronwyn and Euric loved each other. But I think that was the only problem I really had with the story, and it's a subjective problem anyway.

Early tied the story up really well, so when I read that there would be a sequal - Wicked Embers - I was wondering how that could work. Then I learned that it would be told from the point of view of a minor character introduced near the end of this book. I love when authors do that. It makes the story's world seem so much larger, and I know I'm excited to give the second book a try.

An extra shot at the Spur of the Moment photo shoot

Find Candace Bowen Early

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Rhemalda Publishing
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Seven Realms Publishing

Modern Horror: Creepypasta and ARG

2012-02-08T22:45:00.000-08:00

    The core art of storytelling has always remained the same, even though it's constantly refined through modern media. Even before cave drawings, we told stories around campfires. People have retold these stories time and time again, and they slowly evolved, becoming more fantastic with each telling due to the “Chinese Whispers“ effect. While authors have become more inventive and systematic over time, it was this earliest form of storytelling that widened mankind’s imagination and began the tradition. The methods have changed, but word of mouth has given rise to rumors, ghost stories, urban legends, and even the basis for religion. All fantastic stories, all inspiring belief. This practice is still very much alive.

    The creepypasta: a bastardization of the term “copypasta,” derived from "copy/paste" and referring to a message copied and pasted en masse. The creepypasta began the same way: short horror stories of varying length, posted on various websites and forums throughout the internet, and often passed off as fact to spark up a scare. You’ve likely seen them before; most people have. “DON’T READ THIS.” Sound familiar? Posts like this plague the internet every day, especially the comments sections of video streaming sites.

     Creepypastas started as a minor annoyance with the superstitious backing of old-fashioned chain mail. They have been largely ignored, disregarded as trolling, or spammed and hidden, but they certainly haven’t gone unheard. In fact, they’ve become quite the popular phenomenon over the years. As any Facebook friend of mine would know, these stories have been my personal fascination for some time now. They‘re addicting, and a lot like pizza: good or bad, it’s still creepypasta, and I still love it.

    A large part of any urban legend’s mystique is that the origin and author of the story tends to fade into obscurity over time. After a while, it comes into question whether or not there was ever an original author. Some even begin to entertain the idea that the story is true, and that is when the story reaches the height of its art. That is how we ended up with tales like Bloody Mary, La Llarona, and The Amityville Horror. This remains true of the creepypasta, and it has spawned such stories as “smile.dog,” “Pokemon Black,” and “Ben drowned.” These tales of cursed image files and haunted video games strike fear at the very heart of modern media.

smile.dog

Many websites have been dedicated to these stories, including compilations, submission forums, and even analysis discussions, such as the Creepypasta Wiki. Another notable collection/submission website is the Creepypasta Index. After visiting this site, I became inspired to try my hand at writing one. One of my works is featured there, as well, entitled “The Hidden Things.” Shameless plugging, I know. But that is essentially the purpose of a blog, isn't it?

After so many of these stories came into circulation, Youtube has hosted several channels by enthusiastic readers, and the best of them bring these stories to life. One of the channels that introduced me to the fascination belongs to MrCreepyPasta. His channel is updated regularly and has built a respectable following. I would recommend it as a starting point for any curious readers. He takes requests, and he has touched on some of the most popular, and chilling, to be found so far.

Perhaps the most notorious of all creepypasta stories began with a single image:

    This image was a contest entry at SomethingAwful.com, a contest for doctored photographs depicting supernatural phenomena, eventually used to stage hoaxes on paranormal message boards. This image made its rounds, and it quickly spawned stories of a “slender man” who haunts and abducts children. Inspired by these stories, independent film director Troy Wagner created a long running and still active independent film series known as “Marble Hornets,” told through two separate channels on Youtube. These films fleshed out the Slender Man myth in graphic and immersive detail, and they gave the myth more dimension and momentum than ever before.

    Since its debut on June 20th, 2009, Marble Hornets has gained a massive cult following and inspired many fan-made spin-offs. Series of particular interest have been Youtube channels TribeTwelve, EverymanHYBID and CompileTRUTH. Popular blogs have included “Dreams in Darkness,” “Watch This City Burn,” and “Just Another Fool.” All of these fan-created works, among many others, have added to the Slender Man mythos in many ways. They have all masqueraded as reality, and all promoted its popularity until it eventually became a common meme all its own.

    The mythos reached its true potential when these stories started to meld and cooperate. Channels began to reference one another, frequently cameo each others’ key characters and concepts, and actively drive each others’ plots all while maintaining their realistic facades. This trend continues even now, and while it may not be the first instance of such a thing, it has become part of a new and revolutionary form of storytelling: the ARG.

    The ARG (Alternate Reality Game) allows an engrossing experience that was not possible until the internet united the world. It is a large, collaborative effort forming a web that spans far and wide. The reader (or audience, if you like) is no longer bound by a fourth wall and limited to a vicarious experience. The story is happening now, all around you, and you are placed at the eye of storm. You are encouraged to follow the detective trail. The more you investigate, the more you find. The more you find, the more connections you make for yourself, the more theories you form. You begin to find yourself personally involved with the story even if you choose not to participate.

    Beyond the Slender Man mythos, I have heard of few others that have taken this approach. However, I hope this method grows and becomes a modern standard. Not only is it interesting to follow, but it is inspiring in many ways. It reminds us of just how creative people can really be, and what great things can be accomplished through cooperation and common interest.

    Writers, especially, can learn from these stories. We know that life experience and empathy for our characters is the key to everything. In these stories, the experience is brought right to your doorstep, inviting you to step inside. As I am still an amateur myself, far be it from me to give advice for success. Even still, I can tell you that my fascination with these stories has done wonders for my personal inspiration and drive. Do yourself a favor and check it out.

Pleasant nightmares,

~Aaron

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Links:

The Creepypasta Wiki -- creepypasta.wikia.com/wiki/Creepypasta_Wiki
The Creepypasta Index -- www.creepypastaindex.com
MrCreepyPasta -- www.youtube.com/user/MrCreepyPasta
Marble Hornets - www.youtube.com/user/MarbleHornets
Tribe Twelve - www.youtube.com/user/TribeTwelve
Everyman HYBRID - www.youtube.com/user/EverymanHYBRID
Compile TRUTH - www.youtube.com/user/compileTRUTH

Icarus by J.S. Chancellor

2012-02-07T16:41:00.000-08:00

Jessica Slate is a kindred covenant. In other words, she's a high-ranking vampire and assassin who is as sassy as she is revered for her strength. Part of what makes her one of the best assassins is her willingness to kill any target without ever asking why. She's perfectly content thinking that the male voice she often hears in her mind is just a figment of her imagination. She doesn't question why she has no other choice but to be an assassin and take Icarus, an injection from the Powers That Be that keeps her alive.

This all changes when she's sent on an odd mission. Usually she's required to assassinate vampires who've committed treason against the High Coven, but this time the higher ups want her only to retrieve the target. When she finds him and roughs him up a little, he's adamant on letting her know that everything she knows is a lie.

As much as she doesn't want to believe it, a series of events quickly forces Jessica to understand that everything she thought she knew IS a lie, leaving her with lots of overwhelming questions and answers. What role does her mentor and on/off again lover Tristan play in the grand scheme of things? Who is Jacelynd and why does she feel like he's familiar?

While it's important that Jessica regains her memory for her own sake, she also must do so for the sake of humanity. Only if she remembers can she stop the apocalypse...for now.

The moment I started Icarus, I knew it was a book J.S. Chancellor had fun writing. The book starts with a cool introduction that lets readers peak into Chancellor's mind and learn more about the story's creation. Then there's a small paragraph that summarizes what Icarus is in Greek Mythology. Last, but not least, each chapter title is also the title of a song, so J.S. Chancellor notes in the beginning which song the chapter gets its title from. That way, when reading the chapter, you can listen to the corresponding song on the playlist. I thought that was a nice idea.

I really liked how genre savvy Jessica was. In the beginning, she jokes around about cliches that run rampant in vampire fiction and tries to say that vampirism, in reality, is actually not like that stuff at all. For the most part, this is essentially a love triangle story. At some points, the relationship stuff made my heart soar, but other times I felt it could be a bit sappy. I loved how the characters at the end of the story definitely felt different from the characters at the beginning. The conflict nicely built up and came to a good close.

It's not a good idea to read this for the apocalypse part of the storyline, since that is something that is mostly only happening in the background. While at the same time it seems like Jessica cares about what happens to humanity, it also seems like the love triangle and Jessica regaining her memories is more important.

I really did like this book, namely because it's fun. Though there are very serious moments, I still feel like this book's purpose was never meant to be some literary masterpiece or a book that would be seen as entirely unique to other supernatural books. I smiled at the witty conversations and felt all warm and tingly at the moments of pure love. And hey, maybe that was Chancellor's purpose all along.

The Wild and Fictional World of Teenagers

2012-02-07T12:00:00.000-08:00


Fake may be dazzling, but fake is also false. Not everything that glitters is gold, kids.

Let me preface this post by first saying, Hi! I'm Sierra, an aspiring author and editor, and I'm new here! That's all. Now to tackle the issue of dazzlingly fictitious lives of teenagers, more often than not as portrayed at the fingertips of--you guessed it, not REAL teenagers, but ADULTS.

Some of the most popular titles in 2011 explored an overwhelmingly teenaged female protagonist (sometimes even fast-forwarded by some means into motherhood). Twilight saga? Check. Hunger Games trilogy? Check. Hush, Hush series? Check. Etc., etc. Take a look into the crazily inhabited Young Adult fiction world and you'll find tons of young girls falling in love with men that usually sweep them off their feet... from their seats in school.

These girls are nice girls. They're boring or, if they're interesting, only a few people know it, and they're the ones who count. They're nice enough that they don't get picked on too much. And they are, without exception, the most virginally chaste group of people I've ever had the pleasure of meeting.

Now, don't get me wrong. I'm not saying all teenagers are horny drug-abusers with criminal backgrounds and relatively peaceful home lives. But some are.

The kids I went to school with, my friends, even I MYSELF, have never really laid eyes on the likes of these girls who fall so deeply and madly in love with (usually) superhuman men of their dreams. The kids I knew in school cursed. They fought. They thought they were tough shit. They worked their butts off for their education. They didn't get hand-outs. Their relationships were rocky, but not deadly. Their jobs sometimes interfered with their education. Some wanted to join the military. Some wanted to be a dancer. Some couldn't care less about school and dragged along in advanced classes with Cs and Ds, barely passing. Some played sports, and for some that meant more than health class, though for others it was merely a past time or a good way to keep in shape, even still for others it was pushed on them by controlling parents. Some went home at midnight. Some went home directly after school. Some had chores to complete, and some wasted away in front of the computer for hours on end. Some had cars, some had to take the bus and some lived within walking distance of the school whereas others caught rides. Some had sisters, some had brothers, some had parents who went to the same school and had the same teachers. They were real.

But it's those people that I never read about, ever. It is my personal belief that, if the characters have to spend time at school, at least make it dynamic. Because, after all, isn't that what fiction is all about? Taking everyone on a ride that changes this person you've created to change for the better, or sometimes for the worse? What's the use if the backdrop is too meaningless to convey any palpable message?

My point is, Write what you know. If high school is pivotal in your book, make it pivotal, not a cardboard cut-out of Student Council Presidents and Evil Cheerleaders.

But my REAL point is, There's nothing wrong with a scarred heart falling in love, for real this time. Girls who knows nothing of love, and have never tried to, or have never given it any thought, or have never attempted to give anything of themselves to anyone else and failed... don't have to hog all the whimsical desperation that is "true love." Trust me, True Love is not alone reserved for virgins who have never been kissed. Love doesn't have to be in the shape of a triangle. Love doesn't have to blindside you. Love doesn't have to be a choice between life or death. And love doesn't have to be real, 100%, all the time. It can fracture. It can scar. It can happen to anyone. Not just these nice, boring girls.

And that's food for thought, kids.

Big 2012 Giveaway Winners!

2012-02-03T11:57:00.000-08:00

For a month, I held a big contest here at Reader's Den with the following prizes:

1st Place: Choose any 7 books from the giveaway list. I will also edit 10,000 words of your novel/short story.
2nd Place: Choose any 5 books. I will also edit 5000 words of your novel/short story.
3rd place: Choose any 3 books. I will also edit 1000 words.

Now it's time to announce the winners!

1st Place:
Cindy R.

2nd Place:
Kathryn H.

3rd Place:
Nancye E. D.

Speaking of giveaways and prizes, tomorrow is the last day to enter into the giveaway for David Alderman's novel "Black Earth: End of the Innocence." All you have to do is comment for the chance to win a digital copy of the book.

Enter Here

Black Earth: End of the Innocence by David N. Alderman

2012-01-30T18:11:00.000-08:00

*Giveaway Bonus*

And the contest is closed! The three winners of the digital copy of Black Earth: End of the Innocence are Cindy, Mel, and Heather. I hope you enjoy the review. ^_^

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Miles away from Nathan, a girl is standing atop a building, preparing to jump off. She wants to escape from her evil mother, Evanescence, and from the world she knows will soon come to an end thanks to Legion, a demonic alien force bent on partnering with satan to destroy earth. When Nathan blacks out, he can see and feel the things that she can feel. And he's not the only one with an unfathomable superhuman ability.

Heather, his best friend, can put up a shield when in danger, an ability she shares with Jasper - a Wedge from the world of Rhodenine who has come to earth to stop Legion from taking out Earth and rescue his woman. And where is his woman? She's trapped as a slave under a megalomaniac who wants to be the one to send all the humans to planet Anaisha when planet earth is destroyed.

The story also follows Cynthia, a teenager who went to the same school Nathan went to, as she gives a second thought to her whorish ways throughout highschool and deals with her mother who seems more and more evil and mysterious as the story goes on. Then there's President Amanda and the questionable laws she passes and Ericka, a reporter who is quick to bring those questionable laws to the light.

Though the main conflict of the story is the mysterious stars/meteorites falling from the sky and killing thousands of people left and right, there are as many conflicts - if not more - as there are point of views. However, Nathan remains in the middle of all of this conflict, and it begs the biggest question of all: What makes Nathan so important?

Black Earth is definitely like watching a movie. Because it changes point of views so often, and there is a good amount of action, I imagined I was watching it on the big screen throughout the whole story. However, at some points, I did feel like there were too many plot threads and characters to follow and keep track of, at least for a 173 page story.

Not that all of the plot threads weren't interesting and awesome. I love how David Alderman tried to mix in time traveling, aliens, demons, government conspiracies, and normal teenage problems. Still, it sometimes felt like he was trying to tell one too many stories in one story. Some of them could very well be stories of their own.

My favorite chapter was chapter 34. I loved the characters, the dialogue, and the action. I smiled, felt terrified, and cheered in various sections throughout. It's not only my favorite chapter of this book; it's one of my favorite chapters of all time, and that's really saying something considering I read and review a new book every weekend.

I'd definitely recommend this book to anyone who is into fantasy, horror, and sci-fi fiction. I know I enjoyed it and look forward to reading and reviewing book 2 as well!

Click here to see about the double pack, which combines book 1 and book 2!

Find David Alderman

Awakening Evarun (Part I of VI) by Thomas Barczak

2012-01-23T09:10:00.000-08:00

*Giveaway Bonus*

The contest is closed! The winners are Sarah Hulcy and Megan Ticer.
I hope you enjoy the review and check the book out.

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The world Talus inhabits is a dark one full of death. Wizards and dragons, both ferocious in their own right, made it that way. You can hear them coming from miles away, what with the sounds of drumbeats and cries announcing their arrival. Even if you can't see them, they can see you through the eyes of the dead.

In a world full of death, there's really nowhere to hide.

Still, Talus tries. At first he seems like he is just a poor man surviving on the smallest of threads, but there is much more to him than what readers initially see in chapter one, just like there is much more to the little boy who tells Talus that the wizards have found him.

Hiding is no longer an option.

Awakening Evarun's uniqueness in format is what attracted me to the book. It's a six part serial novel, meaning that each part is relatively short, with a beautiful sketch before each chapter. This isn't a route many authors or publishers take. Thomas Barczak wrote the story, drew the sketches, and self-published it. In all, he's one hell of a one man team, and I can't help but respect that.

Barczak's writing is lyrical at times yet simple and easy to understand. However, there were at least two instances where a lyrical description went over my head even when I reread the sentence. I liked the amount of white space as well. Exposition never seemed unnecessary, which is sometimes a problem in fantasy books.

When reading fantasies, I always take note of the terminology in the hopes that I'll learn more later (also so that I won't lose track). Fortunately, there wasn't an overwhelming amount of terms to keep up with, but there were enough to convince me that the world is definitely a place developed enough to feel separate from our own. The only time I felt this separation was shaky was near the end, when I couldn't help but think of Christianity.

If you like fantasy, art, and a short read (it took me less than an hour to finish and I was taking notes), I don't see why you shouldn't try Awakening Evarun (Part I of VI). I know I'm looking forward to reading the other five parts.

Author Thomas Barczak

Find Thomas Barczak

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Awakening Evarun (Part I of VI)
Awakening Evarun (Part II of VI)
Awakening Evarun (Part III of VI)
Awakening Evarun (Part IV of VI)

Author Spotlight: Douglas R. Brown

2012-01-21T10:35:00.000-08:00

*Giveaway Bonus*

The giveaway contest is closed! The winner of the print copy of Tamed is Heidi V and the winner of the ebook copy is Shooting Stars Mag.

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Author Douglas R. Brown has quite a number of wonderful titles. He's a family man with a beautiful wife, a son, and two dogs; He's a firefighter and paramedic; and, of course, he's a writer. In the beginning, writing was a way for him to cope with the stresses of his firefighter/paramedic lifestyle. Now the fantasy stories he writes - from 'The Light of Epertase' series to 'Tamed' - is a way for him to add something to the genre he's loved for years.

Tamed, his most recent book, explores the idea of having werewolves as pets. In fact, on February 29th, I'll review Tamed. Here's the description from Amazon:

Werewolves are real. And they make excellent pets. Owning one of the legendary creatures is the latest fad. The WereHouse insists their werepets are loyal, docile, and 100% safe, but what happens when these gentle giants turn on their masters? While on a routine EMS call, paramedic Christine Alt is attacked by a rogue werepet. She escapes with her life, but the encounter leaves her with more than just scars. As her body begins to change, she discovers the WereHouse is hiding a terrible secret, and they will stop at nothing to keep her from exposing them.

Apart from the fact that I can't wait to read Tamed, I bet you're wondering why I'm spotlighting Douglas. Well, earlier today, he was interviewed on NBC4! Personally, as a writer who has dreamed about what it would be like to talk about my book on TV, I'm very excited for him. For this to be his first time on TV, I think he did a wonderful job (the interview officially starts at 1:10).

What do you think about Douglas and/or Tamed? Share your thoughts in the comment box and you'll be automatically entered to win either a print or ebook copy!

Find Douglas R. Brown

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Freebie Friday: True Colors by Michelle Davidson Argyle

2012-01-20T11:52:00.000-08:00

If you own a Kindle (you can easily download Kindle for PC or for Mac if not), Amazon is offering this literary short story collection by Michelle Davidson Argyle for free. ^_^

My Review

Download for Free

Guest Post: Writer Imani Wisdom and Storytelling

2012-01-18T10:35:00.000-08:00

Every Wednesday, a guest is supposed to post here at Reader's Den. However, since I won't be putting together a new line-up of guests until February or March, I've decided to make all guest posts for this month recaps of older ones that I think deserve more love. The first week's post was David Alderman. He shared his thoughts on self-publishing. Last week I featured Allan Leverone, who talked about short story writing.

This week's guest post is courtesty of Imani Wisdom. In September 2011, she started her own publishing company called 'Wickedly Sweet Ink.' The first book published under this company is 'Untimely Revelations,' and there are four other books coming up. I hope you enjoy Imani's post about what it means to accept being a storyteller!

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The Gift of Storytelling

All of my life, I knew writing was my passion. Since the age of eight years old when I wrote my first song lyric, I discovered creating a great story is the mastermind of our entertainment. It’s a template from a writer’s active imagination bringing life to great and memorable movies; such as, Gone with the Wind and Star Wars; television shows like, I love Lucy and The Cosby Show, or legendary songs like, John Lennon’s Imagine and Aretha Franklin’s Respect. Even though at the time I knew the significance at the discovery, I had other interests. I didn’t take writing seriously until twenty years later when it turned from a budding interest into words of healing.

Like any artist, most writers tend to discover their craft during the darkest moments in their lives, and I’m no different. I battled through depression, health issues, and became a caregiver for my mother, aunt, and grandparents. I used to think I was being punished by a higher power for enduring all of those of challenges, and laid in bed crying nightly to pray for something good to come my way. So I waited for a sign. And I waited, and waited, and waited some more. Then one day last year when my depression had grown ominous, I prayed once more out loud asking what my purpose is for living.

Suddenly I had an epiphany. It was crystal clear as if someone or something nudged at my subconscious. I won’t say what the sign entailed, but what I can say it compelled me to finish a short story I had stored on my computer for a few years. This story began with just under 10,000 words turned to a near 300-page manuscript. Strangely, during the time I wrote the untitled story, I realized everything I had wondered about my life was answered by the stroke of my fingers, transferring it from an active imagination into a powerful narrative.

After that sobering day, my life had changed for the better. I’m finally stepping out of the box to pursue my dream to become a published author. Whether you’ve been on the journey through traditional or self-publishing, I can safely say both roads aren’t an easy task.

As I get closer at publishing my short story, Introduction of Nikki Robinson, releasing on eBooks this summer, I’m still learning and growing as a writer, or I prefer to be called, a storyteller. I don’t know if I’ll be like a lot of published authors and throw in the name “author” in front of my name on social networking sites. I am actually proud to call myself just a storyteller. As I stated earlier, writers are indeed the base of our entertainment. So as I say all the time—if you have this gift for storytelling—I don’t see why you can’t write any genre. As long as it’s a great story, you can feed our need for great entertainment.

True Colors by Michelle Davidson Argyle

2012-01-16T12:32:00.000-08:00

Colors have a way of fascinating, whether wrapped in paper and stuffed in a box, or pushing fistfuls through topsoil, screaming, "I
am here at last!"

The above qoute, from 'Clover' on page 89, summarizes this collection of literary short stories (with the occasional poem) perfectly. Colors, secrets, symbolism, imagery, love lost and gained, nature...each of these play a considerably large role in the sixteen stories within.

When I think of these stories, I can't help but compare them to snapshots. They're more like photographs transformed into words; a moment that is otherwise mundane becomes beautiful and significant, like with 'Encounters' and 'The Sky Was Bluer Then, and Smoke More White.'

For those more accustomed to contemporay fiction, 'True Stories' may take some getting used to. Many of the stories are poetic and abstract. Because of this, a slower read-through is sometimes necessary. I didn't have a problem with that. Forcing me, a speed reader, to slow down in order to really try and work out the meaning of a story is a good thing. The only story I couldn't grasp was 'An Offering of Vines.'

Of the sixteen stories, seven really stuck with me. 'The Threshold' is my absolute favorite, what with it's wonderful dialogue and characters that feel extremely real. 'Fences' and 'Clover' stick with me also due to how very solid the characters were. In both tales, I was able to smile at some parts and feel genuinely sad at others. I admired how they all held themselves together, if even on a thread, in spite of how damaged they were.

'Signs,' in spite of its length (or maybe because of its length), manages to be terrifying and sad. Though some instances of 'The Unpaved' did confuse me, I loved how so much of it was symbolism and imagery, how it managed to be two stories that combined to make one.

I've never been too big of a fan of poetry, but I really did enjoy 'Enclosures' and 'The Innocent Flower.' 'Enclosures' made me feel envious of such a relaxing, simple moment between the mom and her child while 'The Innocent Flower' was charged with emotion and personification and an admirable representation of Lady Macbeth.

I've noticed that many of the stories contain marriages gone wrong or a number of secrets that are kept from both characters and the audience. There are as many secrets in this collection as there are colors, as with 'Sounding Light' and 'This.'

When I read a short story collection, I always feel as though I have somehow become closer to the author. Michelle Argyle is one of those unique authors you rarely see these days. She writes in so many different genres and styles - poetry, suspense, literary, fantasy, mystery, new adult, etc - and I can't wait to read and review her other stories!

Guest Post: Allan Leverone and Short Story Writing

2012-01-11T10:27:00.000-08:00

Every Wednesday, a guest is supposed to post here at Reader's Den. However, since I won't be putting together a new line-up of guests until February, I've decided to make all guest posts for this month recaps of older ones that I think deserve more love. Last week's post was David Alderman. He shared his thoughts on self-publishing. This week I'll be featuring Allan Leverone.

A while ago, I reviewed Allan's short story collection "Postcards from the Apocalypse." It is, hands down, one of my most favorite short story collections and what made me realize that I do like reviewing short stories. As thus, it's only fitting that his guest post here was about short stories.

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Short Stories are Harder to Write than Novels

Writing a novel takes a long time; I’m not going to try to claim differently. Filling up three hundred manuscript pages with conflict, drama and suspense takes weeks, months even, and that’s just to complete the first draft. Then you have to go back and rewrite, edit, polish, rewrite some more, edit and polish some more and then, if you’re really lucky and have a little talent, your novel might be ready to actually, you know, show someone.

I’ve written five novel-length manuscripts and am well into my sixth, so I can testify to the truth of all that. It’s a grind, a marathon, a twenty-six mile slog as opposed to the hundred yard sprint of short story writing. There is no question you have to have self-discipline to sit at your keyboard every single day and pound out a thousand to two thousand words or more on a novel.

But here’s the thing. Knowing you have three hundred fifty manuscript pages in which to tell your story can be liberating. It gives you the room and the time to develop your characters and conflicts fully and allows complex story arcs to play out.

In short story writing, none of that is possible. All the elements of storytelling have to be part of the construction, but everything must take place in just a few thousand words, a tiny percentage of the word-count of a novel. There has to be character development—if the reader doesn’t care what happens to the subject of the story, you’ve lost him.

There has to be a conflict, whether some kind of interior issue the protagonist must overcome or an exterior problem, something that is happening to him or her, either caused by another person or often a situation. Then, after that conflict has been established, there has to be a satisfactory resolution; otherwise, what’s the point?

One huge advantage of short stories is that the conflict resolution does not necessarily have to be the typical “happy ending” required of most novels. As an author, you are taking a big chance if you ask a reader to invest hours of time reading a novel and then end it with the “bad guys” winning. There is no such restriction with short story construction. If the reader has invested just minutes in a story, rather than hours, he or she won’t mind being hit with a twist ending where maybe the protagonist comes out on the short end of the stick.

As a genre writer, there is nothing quite like surprising the reader with an ending she is not expecting. Most of the fiction in my short story collection, Postcards From the Apocalypse, contains some sort of twist ending that might not be possible in a novel. And that’s a lot of fun.

Important Author Links:

The Demon's Apprentice by Ben Reeder

2012-01-09T16:02:00.000-08:00

*Giveaway Bonus*

And the giveaway contest is CLOSED. The winner of a print, signed copy of 'The Demon's Apprentice' is Patty White!

I hope you enjoy the review.

********************

On Chance's seventh birthday, his dad sold him to a demon out of a selfish desire to escape his own demonic debts. Eight years later, Fifteen-year-old sophomore Chance takes life into his own hands. Through intelligence, careful planning, and amazing will power, Chance outwits his powerful demon master and escapes. His life is finally his own.

The Demon's Apprentice is the inverse of the typical high-school-kid-who-stumbles-upon-the-supernatural-world story. It starts with Chance fully aware of the supernatural world and, as the story continues, it's high school he has to get accustomed to. But, of course, just because he's free from the demon doesn't mean that he's free from the supernatural society. In fact, being free from the demon only makes the supernatural that much more interested in him.

His first week in the suburbs, his first week of attempting to live a normal life, turns out to be one 'hell' of a couple of days. On the plus side, he makes friends and learns what the love of a wonderful mother and little sister is like. On the negative side, the trail of people/creatures after Chance just keeps growing - from the police to the Wizards' Conclave to the football jocks.

Chance is finally surrounded by those he loves and those who love him, but can he protect them all from the dangers that come along with being a warlock?

In the beginning, I didn't know how I felt about Chance. He's one of those marvelously written protagonists that one both finds suspicious and loveable. However, by the fourth chapter, I found myself really caring about Chance. It's hard not to. He's the type of guy that would never take advantage of a female, and he has major love and respect for his mom.

I also really loved how Ben Reeder describes characters and magic. He describes magic in such a way that readers can easily grasp how it works, and it's the first time I've ever fully understood the process. In spite of all the crazy, dark things going on, there were still humorous bits that got a good laugh out of me. Hey, who doesn't like a good laugh?

There's another book on its way and I can't wait to read it!

Author Ben Reeder

Find Ben Reeder

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The Demon's Apprentice: Amazon page
The Demon's Apprentice: Barnes and Noble page
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Big 2012 Giveaway!

2012-01-06T17:30:00.000-08:00

Before you read anything below these lines, go to the book giveaway page and check out the books you can choose from. There's Stephen King, Anne Rice, collections, nonfiction, comics, and more. If you want any of the books, any at all, carefully read the contest terms in the giveaway widget!

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a Rafflecopter giveaway

Freebie Friday: Vine Leaves Issue #1

2012-01-06T11:37:00.000-08:00

This is the first Freebie Friday of 2012! Freebie Friday is pretty explanatory. Basically, I find something literary and free and link you to it. The free thing varies - sometimes it's a full book or a magazine or a short story collection; other times it's a free product or some free software that I think may be helpful to readers. Either way, finding free literary things on the internet makes me a happy reader, so I want to share that happiness with you.

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Vine Leaves is a new journal with a simple, yet beautiful purpose - to create a place for fellow writers to publish their work, especially the type of work that is often overlooked by the literary world. This issue focused on the vignette, and a vignette is 'a snapshot in words...that focuses on one element, mood, character, or object.'

The whole first issue is online free.

Usually I discover free things by exploring the internet or checking my e-mails, but I found out about this journal through my friend Michelle Davidson Argyle. In the past, I've reviewed Cinders, and I'll be reviewing True Colors (her short story collection) the 22nd of this month. 'White,' her vignette, is on page three.

Enjoy!

David Alderman and Self-Publishing

2012-01-04T17:47:00.001-08:00

So, it's the first Wednesday of the new year. Every Wednesday, a guest is supposed to post here at Reader's Den. However, since I won't be putting together a new line-up of guests until February, I've decided to make all guest posts for this month recaps of older ones that I think deserve more love.

David Alderman's thoughts on self-publishing is the first post I want to repost. It's very candid and helpful, and I'm proud to say that I'll be reviewing one of his books - Black Earth: End of the Innocence - on January 29. If you're considering self-publishing your own work or just want to know more about the process from the point-of-view of a guy who has done it many times, this should be a great post for you. Enjoy!

XxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXx

Author David Alderman was first mentioned on Triple R for his helpful, informative post on Tools for Self-Published Authors. If anyone knows about self publishing, it's him.

His guest post today will be split into two parts. The second part will be online next Saturday, June 4th. This is the first time I've ever done that, but I didn't want him to cut anything to make it fit the guidelines for one guest appearance. The post is too good as it is.

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When I was given the chance to post here on Tiffany’s blog, I didn’t know what I wanted to write at first. In the weeks leading up to this post, my main work computer died and my writing schedule went upside down and all around in frustration and chaos. I have three novels in the pipeline, all in different stages of the self-publishing process, getting ready for their release this summer, and having a computer crash on you at that point is one of the worst things that can happen.

Then it dawned on me. Why not write about self-publishing? It’s a popular topic nowadays, right? With the boom of e-readers and the expansion of the digital age, anyone can write anything and publish it to the masses. Anybody can be a published author.

Last week, Tymothy Longoria posted a great piece - http://fuisti.blogspot.com/2011/05/guest-post-tymothy-longoria-and.html - on the pros and cons of being a writer. I’d like to take his points and bring them into another realm, the realm of self-publishing. Deciding to write something is one thing. Deciding to become a full-time writer is another. But even more than that comes the decision to become a self-published – or indie – writer, one who takes control of every aspect of their treasured little baby.

I first fell in love with the written word in sixth grade when I was called on to write a short story as part of a class assignment. I wrote a piece about a boy who fought to save the world from a criminal mastermind. It was an innocent story, from the mind of an innocence sixth grader. But what I didn’t know, was with that one story, my destiny had been sealed. It began with short stories which in turn blew up into novels which in turn blew up into a series. I fell in deep, crazy in love with writing, with creating, with the very act of recording my imagination onto humble sheets of notebook paper.

Many years later, I am proud to call myself a full-time writer. After a frustrating road through my twenties, working so many different jobs, trying my hand at so many different things to find out where I fit in, to find a task, a purpose, where my creative imagination could sprout and grow, I finally came to the realization that nothing fulfills me like writing does.

Writing is a creative process, one that requires us to pull out pieces of ourselves and put them under the spotlight for the world to see. Many of the arts require this type of sacrifice, we all just use different tools. Writers have pen and paper, artists have brushes and paint, singers have music notes and microphones. What we all have in common is imagination, creativity, passion. Courage. We step out, reveal the deepest parts of ourselves to the world, some lovely, some entertaining, some downright dark. But we put all of it on display for others to see, to read, to hear. We take a chance and we allow others to criticize, to hate, to love, to embrace.

Self-publishing takes these parts of ourselves and exposes them in a more revealing light. To write a story is one thing. To take on the responsibility of editing that story, of creating the cover design, of promoting said story on a website, multiple social networking platforms, even a blog, is a burden few are able to take upon themselves properly. Regardless if we have others help us with these creative ventures, we are still the ones solely responsible for how it all weaves together to create a package for the readers out there looking for a new story, a new adventure, a new world to get lost in.

Click to read Part 2!

Lies at the End of the World

2011-11-07T08:41:00.000-08:00

*Giveaway Bonus*

The giveaway is now closed, and the winner of a .pdf copy of the book is Holly S. I hope you enjoy the review.

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"The sun revolves around the earth. Man is the pinnacle of evolution, nature's greatest achievement. Humanity is here to stay. We are the creation of a benevolent and loving God. Was this in God's plan?"

Bomb shelter? Check. Guns and bullets? Check. Vitamins and water? Check. Canned food and frozen food? Check. John Frank and his parents dedicated their lives to preparing for the end of the world. No matter the scenario, from y2k to the swine flu, they would be ready. John knew their preparation would all have a purpose at some point, but he never knew said purpose would be the zombie apocalypse.

In the beginning of the apocalypse, John spent his life holed up in his attic on the country side, where he could shoot at the zombies on the other side of his twelve foot fence through his window. Then a girl came along and, beside the world falling apart all around his house, John's life changed forever.

Perhaps it takes the end of the world to really cherish what it means to live in this world.

I have a love-hate thing for zombies. I love them because I love all things supernatural, but I tire of them because, well, they're all over the place. Too many zombie stories just end up being rip-offs of Night of the Living Dead. I can happily say that Phil Wolters didn't take that route. While there's a sub-plot in a mall that certainly does, it remains a sub-plot that only sometimes intermingles with the main plot.

No, I think this story is more about love and preparation in the face of the end. Zombies get killed. There are cool, big zombie fighting scenes. But, in the end, it all connects back to the comfort of being ready, being loved, and learning to move on.

Wolters has a simple writing style. His story isn't buried under paragraphs of exposition and description. It's all there, pretty straightforward, and it reads like a story being told straight from the mouth of a story teller.

If you, like me, are tired of the same old, same old with zombie stories, I think this is a good book to try out. It's a little more light-hearted, but the kick ass is still there.

Phil Wolters outside of his Yukon home.

Find Phil Wolters

Publisher

'Lies at the End of the World' Preview

Twitter

Postcards from the Apocalypse

2011-10-17T09:09:00.000-07:00

*Giveaway Bonus*

And the contest is CLOSED. The winner is...Cathy Davis! Even if you missed the giveaway, I hope you enjoy the review below.

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Unreliable narrators, terrible deaths, robbery, women as dangerous as they are beautiful, fast cars, horrific crashes, and betrayal. Whether the story is about a kid with telepathic powers or a quarantined city or a guy who won't stay dead, at least one of those seven elements above plays a part. Postcards from the Apocalypse by Allan Leverone is a collection of seventeen short stories that definitely delivers.

In his introduction, Leverone promised readers horror, noir, crime, and fantastical. He promised readers that a character who does wrong will certainly get wronged in return and, if that doesn't happen, there will be a suprise plot twist. Leverone is a guy who can keep a promise. I'm so accustomed to horror and crime fiction that it generally takes me five minutes or less to see where a story is going and what the 'twist' will be. That didn't happen as much with these stories. I found myself pleasantly surprised and pleasantly left with a sense of dread almost every time.

I put stars next to short stories I particularly liked. Out of the seventeen, eight really stuck with me on a deeper level. 'Devotion' enthusiastically got two stars before I even finished reading it. Though I figured out the twist halfway through, it was in such a way that made me smile in fascination at the morbidity of it. I instantly thought of Edgar Allan Poe. 'The Bridal Veil' also got a smile out of me. It starts off stereotypically, almost as if Leverone wanted readers accustomed to the horror genre to think,"Really?" But the story itself is a wonderful trap I loved being pushed into.

'Fallout,' 'Independence Day,' 'The Wheels on the Bus,' and 'Dance Hall Drug' stuck with me because of their beauty - beauty in language, emotional depth, and plot. They were the three stories that made me sit in awe at what I'd just read, unable to do anything but feel sad and uneasy. In contrast, 'The Road to Olathe,' 'Uncle Brick and Jimmy Kills,' and 'Uncle Brick and the Little Devilz' had a more lighthearted feel to them that made me smile a lot.

The small introductions before each short story was a very nice addition. I loved learning where the ideas came from and where they were published. By the end of this collection, I found myself very inspired by his successes in publishing and competitions, and I also realized something...

Allan Leverone won my admiration very early on, and he's an author who writes stories well worth keeping up with.

Allan Leverone and his daughter.

Find Allan Leverone

Website

Facebook
Postcards from the Apocalypse

Final Vector

The Lonely Mile (e-book)

The Lonely Mile (paperback)

Cinders by Michelle Davidson Argyle

2011-09-19T13:45:00.000-07:00

*Giveaway Bonus*

And the contest is CLOSED. The winner is...forbiddenhero! Even if you missed the giveaway, I hope you enjoy the review below.

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Once upon a time, there was a servant who went by the name of Cinderella. She had two wicked step sisters and a stepmother who liked to put her to an unfair amount of work, and her only friends were the kind birds and mice. In response to her distress, a fairy godmother granted Cinderella the magical assistance to trade her life for a much better one - a life beside a prince head over heels for her.

And, as thus, Cinderella lived happily ever after...right?

Whether you're familiar with the happier Disney version, the darker Brother Grimms version, or perhaps other versions entirely, the story still begs the question most fairy tale endings do. Was the ever after really happily? Author Michelle Davidson Argyle tackles this question in Cinders.

Cinderella, or princess Christine, isn't as content with her new life as she assumed she'd be. What with her fairy godmother imprisoned, Cinderella can't help worrying - not just about whether the godmother will live, but how far the godmother's magic stretches. How much of the prince's love is true, if any of it is true at all? How much of her new life is true, if any of it is true at all? Beside those concerns about her present, thoughts of her past still lingers. She can't totally drop old habits, like feeling comfortable in the kitchen.

More importantly, the memory of a guy from her past - a magical guy both real and unreal, a guy whose kiss had a different power than that of the prince's - won't let go. And Cinderella can't let go either. She has to wonder herself how far she will go, how much she is willing to sacrifice, to see him again.

A person's life is really just a series of story arcs. Will this arc of Cinderella's life end just as happily ever after as her previous one?

Argyle is a master at using the power of language to show a range of emotions. Sentences, like the following, said a lot even though it was short: 'She would look like porcelain for her prince tonight. He liked her made up like that.' When I peaked at the book months ago, that sentence stayed in my mind. I loved how she explored the magical aspects of the tale that weren't explored at all originally, like the godmother's power, and expanded on the magical world. What I loved the most, by far, was how morally ambiguous Argyle made Cinderella.

I can honestly admit that, at certain points of the story, I didn't like Cinderella. At some points, I questioned her motives and didn't truly understand how much depth went into her decisions...BUT that's not a bad thing. In this story, Cinderella was more human, more realistic, than I've ever read her. It's not bad that I didn't think she was the most awesome heroine ever. Not all heroines should and can be the most awesome heroines ever. I'm okay with that.

The only thing that concerned me was the story with Cinderella's previous mystery lover. I really wanted to know more about him, more about their past relationship. How'd they find each other? How exactly does his culture work? Questions like that consistently arose in my mind, and I was a tad bit disappointed that I didn't find out. I'm aware that this may have been purposeful. He is characterized as an elusive man.

As it is, though, I enjoyed the novella overall. Michelle Argyle is a talented author readers should definitely keep an eye on!

Find Michelle Argyle

Blog: http://theinnocentflower.blogspot.com

Website: http://michelledavidsonargyle.com/

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/LadyGlamis

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/michelle.ladyglamis

Google +: https://plus.google.com/101451174205686819285/posts

Helpful Articles for Writers - 9/17/2011

2011-09-17T15:28:00.000-07:00

Did you read the previous one?

Usually, I list a number of Helpful Articles based off of the newsletters I get e-mailed, but today I'm doing something a little different. I'm going to gather all my articles from throughout the web and share them in one place - here! Since my birthday is tomorrow, it's something of a writerly gift to myself, a way of seeing what all I've done up to this point in my life.

If you'd like to see all the reviews I've written, here's a list.

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Facebook and Marketing: Episode 1 - The Basics

This episode of my FB and Marketing series, the very first episode, is also the longest. Keep in mind that this series was made a couple of months ago, so Facebook may have changed a little of its features since then. It covers the following aspects of Facebook: How to sign up, Utilizing the News Feed, How to use Networked Blogs, How to set up and use Events, How to set up and use Groups, and How to set up and use a Page.

Facebook and Marketing: Episode 2 - Genuine Networking

This episode is different from the one above, in that it's less of a guide and more of a series of paragraphs on how to get sell, sell, sell out of your mind so you can start actually selling. It covers the following things: How I started and why it helped, Getting 'sell, sell, sell' out of your mind, Quality over quantity (in terms of FB friends), but quantity helps, Why being genuine counts!

Facebook and Marketing: Episode 3 - Growing the List

This episode switches back to the guide format. Befitting of the episode number, I offer three ways of generally growing your FB friend list.

Facebook and Marketing: Episode 4 - Seven Ways to Network

Very explanatory title. I give seven methods of deepening your connections with the people you've met on FB.

The First Draft Race

This is the article I'm most proud of. It was liked 40 times, had 11 comments, and was the first article I ever successfully posted on another's site. The first draft race is for people who find that, no matter how hard they try, they can't get past the finish line (or can't finish the story's first draft).

Check it Off

I'm BIG on lists. This article explores how lists can help anyone with goals.

Integrating Reality Into Fiction: Can You and Should You?

This article covers the following eight aspects of reality. I discuss where I've seen them used and/or my thoughts about them in general:

1.) Bathroom breaks
2.) Showers and Baths
3.) The usual inconsistency and irrelevancy of dreams/nightmares
4.) Training
5.) Sicknesses
6.) Recovery from injuries
7.) Meals
8.) Unrefined talking

Characters

First I provide a dictionary's definition of the word; then I give my explanations on said definition. It was a new, fun article format for me. I should do it with more words. Hm

Q's and A's with J.S. Chancellor

A 12 question interview with the wonderful author J.S. Chancellor!

Chimera Falls by Pierre Roustan

2011-09-12T08:17:00.000-07:00

In a well hidden place, with Berich Lochem hunters as his prisoners and terrifying new species of vampires as his slaves, Nathaniel Krane awaits. He's like a phantom, planning away with very few aware of his existance, patiently awaiting to destroy and conquer. If that's not enough to worry about, there's also the repercussions of Cain - the very first vampire - roaming the earth. In The Cain Letters, the legendary huntress Alexandra Glade is forced to set him free. While she doesn't know if he himself is a danger to the world, his awakening certainly will be. The seeds are already growing...

Though the story is told from a number of point of views, the main ones are that of Alexandra Glade, Nathaniel Krane, Kyan, the captured comrade that Alexandra is determined to find, and Cardinal Felix Delgado, Alexandra's long time mentor. While the Cardinal studies The Cain Letters, unleashing a dark battle for himself, Alexandra is on the move. She has to find Kyan, but she can't until seeking help from others who are less than willing to get involved.

In the midst of all of this, time ticks away. Nathaniel awaits to make his move...but not for much longer.

This story worked its way into my heart. Months ago, I read and reviewed The Cain Letters, the first book. I thought that one was okay, but this one blew me away. Because Alexandra wasn't as able to rely on her badassery as a heroine to win, readers get to see more of her emotional side and the cliches associated with a badass heroine disappear. In fact, all the characters from the first book get even more fleshed out. The new characters introduced made me laugh, smile, and cheer (in my head), and I enjoyed the layers of sub-plots all merging into one plot.

One thing to watch for, reader. This story can get pretty religious near the end, and if you're not into Christianity, there's a chance the climax will bother you. Looking past that, I found this ending to be more fulfilling, at least in its execution, than the first book's ending. I'm very interested to see where Pierre takes this series in the third book.

Helpful Articles for Writers - 9/10/2011

2011-09-10T14:01:00.000-07:00

Did you read the previous one?

Random Acts of Publicity: How to Get Your Book Reviewed

This is a guest post on Darcy Pattinson's blog from book marketer Dana Lynn Smith. The title is a bit misleading, in that it doesn't really go into details about HOW to get your book reviewed so much as the benefits of reviewing as both a reader and especially as a writer. Of course, I'm all for an article like this, being a reviewer and all. It's not the easiest of things, but I love completing a review and sending it out.

Random Acts of Publicity: Deborah Sloan Tips and Free Consultation

The free consultation, sadly, is over. However, KidsBuzz sounds like a good site for authors and promotion.

Just a Contest

I know I'm always looking for contests, definitely ones that are free to enter AND offer monetary prizes.

How Better Writing Gets You Better Treatment

Image, both fortunately and unfortunately, plays a more important part in an author's platform than most will want to believe.

How to Write Fight Scenes with Alan Baxter

I love all the ways author Joanna Penn lets readers hear or read her articles. There's both a podcast and a video, as well as a summary of what will all be covered in said podcast and video. An article like this is very important for me, considering I'm writing a dark urban fantasy with plenty of fights.

Grammar Resources for Writers

Grammar is becoming a bigger concern for me. I'm not terrible with grammar. I mean, I can point out basic grammatical issues in my own fiction and in critiques, but right now I'm like a musician who has taught herself to play entirely by listening and not by learning the material. I feel like the moment I learn more about grammar, I can manipulate my writing style even more. A good story can very easily be even better if you know how to manipulate the language. However, this article doesn't offer a who lot of resources.

Sacrifice by Dakota Banks

2011-09-06T07:36:00.000-07:00

*Giveaway Bonus*

This giveaway is CLOSED. The winner of the signed copy of Sacrifice and a $25 Amazon gift card is Lea Ellen {night owl in IL}! Dakota will be contacting you soon. ^_^

Enjoy the review. I hope you find it helpful.

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Once upon a time, Maliha Crayne was just a late 16th century wife and soon-to-be mother. Very humble beginnings for what and who she'd later become - an immortal and powerful slave and executioner, her master a ruthless demon.

Centuries later, Maliha Crayne is a popular writer, an archaeological and geographical expert, billionaire times three with powerful connections, and, most importantly, an executioner only on her own terms. Now Maliha's main goal is to fully break apart from the demon and defeat the most powerful of the bunch, possibly saving mankind, by accounting for the deaths of those she killed and gathering powerful shards.

But, on the way to completing this journey, other battles fight for Maliha's attention, battles that take her all over, both physically and emotionally. On the one hand, there's Jake, her boyfriend of a couple months with a past too foggy for Maliha to decide what to trust. On the other, there's Lucius, a current demon slave and executioner wavering between which side he's on. The biggest emotional battle for Maliha, though, is the one within. To win, she has to revert to the tactics she used as a demon slave, but without falling prey to that lifestyle again. Easier said than done.

There are so many battles to be fought. Can she conquer them all and remain herself in the end?

Sacrifice has various layers and sub-plots. This can be a double-edged sword. While it makes the plot and characterization more complex and thorough, giving each sentence great value, it can also trip readers up. The layers always connect; sometimes, though, you have to really concentrate to make sure you don't get too wrapped up in a sub-plot and lose sight of the main plot. The details about weaponry, geography, technology, battle tactics, etc. really made me respect the author and her level of research. In spite of how much is explained, it never feels like info-dumping.

Last, but not least, romance and characterization. There are a lot of interesting characters in the story, different ages and genders and power types, and it's all very well done. As in, realistic. I never got the impression that these people weren't real. As far as romance goes, Maliha is a sexy woman of power, so lust and love can be expected. I like how the romance never entirely feels solid. Someone who has been alive for centuries is expected to have had many flings and issues with commitment regardless of how strong the emotions are. Maliha definitely does.

In all, I'd recommend this book to anyone interested in action, geography, romance, sub-plots, demons, depth of characterization, and skilled writing.

The first book in the Mortal Path series.

Find Banks

Website: http://dakota-banks.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Dakota.Banks

Twitter: http://twitter.com/dakotabanks

Blog: http://dakota-banks.blogspot.com/

Harper Voyager (Publisher): http://bit.ly/HarperVoyager

Helpful Articles for Writers - 9/3/2011

2011-09-03T15:45:00.000-07:00

In the near future, when I change Triple R's layout and its name (just a little), it's content will consist solely of these types of posts. Once every week, I check my e-mails that aren't personally sent to me, generally newsletters and e-zines. It's a long process that takes many hours. I get a lot of helpful articles, and I'm always eager to share them with as many writers as possible. So now, with my blog, I can and will! Here's the very first Helpful Articles for Writers. ^_^

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Progression Makes the Story Worse and Worse - and That's Good
Darcy Pattison makes some interesting points about progression. At first, I just expected her to say the same old, same old: The story needs to rise in conflict near the end and then come to some type of conclusion. But this post delved more into noting how plot points progress and making sure the progression is logical. I find myself often doing this, definitely when trying to make sure my characters are developing throughout.

Novel Revision: 4 Goals to Polish Your Story
I also do these things when polishing, but even though I'm at the 6th draft, there are still large amounts of restructuring. This reminds me of a post that Michelle Davidson Argyle did, about the writing process seemingly becoming quicker or easier. Also, the more I get into critiquing, the more I'll find myself asking readers to do these things before giving me their draft. I can always tell when you've given me something you haven't even read over.

Dear in the Headlights by Levi Johnston
Back when I used to have Freebie Fridays here, Simon and Schuster's was a marvelous resource. This contest ends on 9/16/20ll. I definitely entered. Why? I'm a big fan of free things.

Build a List for Success
I love lists, which is why I've put up a post about it before. Robert Brewer goes a lot more into detail, though.

Ghosts: What Are They?
I'm a paranormal writer, so I'm always interested in paranormal articles like this that go into a little more detail about creatures.

The 10 Most Puzzling Ancient Artifacts
Even if you don't believe in supernatural/paranormal stuff and don't write in or read the genre, these pictures and explanations can lead to many good story ideas.

How to Find More Time
For us writers, this is very important. This article parallels, in a sense, the article above on making lists by Robert Brewer.

All Writing is Compelling Writing
This appeals moreso to the freelance writer and editor, but it could be helpful in terms of fiction and nonfiction too.

Web and Programming Resources Roundup
I'm all about using free domains, like Blogger, for my websites. I only know a little bit about what it takes to actually create and manage sites. Honestly, I don't want to learn this skill. My mind is already full of info I have no idea what to do with. But, just in case you want to know, here you go!

Less is More: Clean Websites
A couple of days ago (probably yesterday), I was searching for the design I want Triple R to have in the near future. I turned to The Innocent Flower, Rhemalda, and Welcome to the Asylum as my guides. And I noticed something. They were very clean. Platforming is important for writers, so this is something good to keep in mind when building or having someone build your website.

Strengthen Your Verbs
It's a very good idea to practice writing sentences that don't consistently use 'to be' verbs.They, like adverbs, can take away from something that could be much more active and descriptive if you tried.

How to Raise Your Characters Above the Status Quo
For the most part, I like this article and find it helpful. I think it's best for action stories, though. The line about wimpy protagonists not being interesting instantly made me think, "That depends."

Using the 3-Act Structure: Adjusting Expectations
My story is actually split into three parts for this purpose, but I think I did that to keep myself in check about the parts.

25 Ways to Improve Your Writing in 30 Minutes a Day
This post is good and varied because the 25 methods are provided by different authors.

Are you Using Trademarked Words in Your Fiction?
This amuses me. However, it's also helpful because it tells you other ways to phrase these trademarked words in case you don't know how to.

10 Ways Writers Lose Blog Traffic and Alienate Readers
Writer's Digest sure does have good titles that tell you exactly what you'll be getting in the article. Anyway, for all you blogging writers out there...

Future Developments

2011-07-13T13:23:00.000-07:00

When I finish the last five books in the Upcoming Book List, I'm gonna completely give Triple R a new layout and change it's name...or at least one word in the name. To what exactly?

Triple R: Read, Rate, Reiterate

There may be a slogan:

"A ~~Crazy/Random/Awesome~~ Commentary on the Literary World"

....Or something like that. Because I'll be creating a small business, which is still untitled but very much planned out, that will have a reviewing and promotion section, there's no reason to have that section here as well. However, I don't want to kill this site just because I'm expanding. So instead I've decided to turn it into a place where I share all the awesome things I've seen on the interwebz and talk about things happening in the literary world that I have an opinion about. Which is almost everything, actually.

The new Triple R will be snarky, more open to discussion, more informal. But it'll also be really fun.

First things first is finishing those last 5 books on the list. I'll have to reread Sacrifice by Dakota Banks out of respect to her and the story. It's been too long since I've had any time to do ANYTHING but homework. And when I sit down to reread that, I'll also sit down and get to the others.

So yeah....there's the future developments. ^_^

Update

2011-07-04T15:51:00.000-07:00

I am currently at my first choice college participating in an intensive six-week scholarship program. I thought I could juggle my homework, writing, personal life, and business ventures. However, until August 7th, I now know I can't. The homework and personal life has to come first because those are two things I don't have a choice in. Trying to put either aside for business ventures or writing/editing/reading/reviewing has back fired on me a number of times since I got on campus. I'm not playing when I say it's way too hard on my physical and mental health, definitely since homework itself can take up to 6 hours even with no distractions.

So this is what I'm saying...until this program ends August 7th, I'll have to put a hold on the Upcoming Book List. I'll basically have to put a hold on this site and Tiffany Rambles because I just rarely have the time any more. I've tried my hardest to make the time. That's not the issue. I schedule it in, but this program demands so much of my attention - with evening classes/meeting and a full plate of homework and events - that I instantly have to schedule it out.

The moment I can, I will jump right back into everything. I want to so very badly! There are many wonderful authors I want to interview and feature, many awesome books I want to review, many venues I'd like to discover. But, at the same time, I can't kill myself with ambitions. For right now, the most I can do is apologize to the authors on the Upcoming Book List and let them know that I will take care of them as soon as I can and with all due respect. In fact, if you are Dakota Banks, Pierre Roustan, Michelle Davidson Argyle, Allan Leverone, or Phil Wolters, this message is for you:

I am very sorry! I hope you can be patient with me for a little bit longer.

This is scholarship/college time for me. ^_^

Guest Post: David Alderman and Self Publishing - Part 2

2011-06-06T20:56:00.000-07:00

Read Part 1 Here!

I first decided to self-publish because I didn’t want others telling me what to do. Yes, I know that sounds childish, but let’s all be honest. If you were to draw a picture on a piece of paper, would you want someone looking over your shoulder, telling you how it should be drawn? I’m not talking about someone teaching you how to draw – that’s different – I’m saying someone is looking over your shoulder telling you exactly what the building should look like, what your character should be wearing in the picture, what the sky should hold. They tell you what your vision of the picture should be. But at that point, it’s not really your vision, is it? It’s someone else’s vision that they’ve pressed upon you.

My vision is one that probably wouldn’t go over well with traditional publishers. Take my latest series, Black Earth, for instance. A tale about the end of the world, of an alien race invading Earth while a reluctant group of heroes are pulled into a destiny they didn’t ask for. The series falls into the science fiction and fantasy genre, but it is so much more than that. Some of my characters are of the Christian faith, but my books aren’t ‘Christian Fiction’. They are gritty, they contain scenes of horror and emotional turmoil. One of my characters is raped in the first chapter of the first book. To traditional publishers, I doubt they would see a benefit to having such a religious tone in my story. And going the route of Christian publishers is out of the question. My work is too much…outside of the box…for them.

So where does that leave me? Where does that leave my vision? Do I abandon my characters in a desk drawer, in a little red file folder, for the rest of their lives? Do I leave them to be destroyed by this alien race without lifting my pen to help them out? I think not. I breathe life into those characters, I pour myself into them, and out they come to deliver a performance to rival all others.

Now, I’m not saying that traditional publishing isn’t a fit for some writers out there. There are definitely some pluses to going the traditional route. You have an entire company, one that (hopefully) has much experience in the book industry, backing you and your vision. You have countless talented people working to get your vision out into the world, to share your story with millions of readers who are just waiting to find their next favorite author. Not to mention you have a well-known name backing you and your book(s).

Years ago, self-publishing had a horrible stigma. Many readers – and well-established authors – thought those who published their own books were incompetent. They figured if a story didn’t get sifted through traditional publishing’s quality control strainer, then it was subpar, insufficient and unworthy of being read by the mass public. Nowadays, that stigma is lifting, if just a little. Anyone can publish their own books thanks to companies like Createspace –
www.createspace.com - or Lulu – www.lulu.com. E-readers have made it possible to post your material in the matter of a day or two and reach potential millions with your story.

I am by no means implying that self-publishing is a casual stroll through the park. It’s tough taking on the responsibility of every aspect involved with publishing a book. That’s why traditional publishing works for some. But for others, for those adventurous enough to want to take the leap, those with an entrepreneurial spirit, self-publishing is a lifestyle.

At the end of the day when someone is holding one of my books in their hands, the knowledge that I put that book together gives me great pride. The vision, the encapsulated dream in their grip is 100% mine. Unadulterated. A story told the way a story wanted to be told. That’s worth the work I put into creating it. That’s worth the self-publishing journey.

For those of you interested in following my journey through the currents of self-publishing, you can check out my blog at
www.abrokenreality.blogspot.com. I have two novels in my Black Earth series, Black Earth: End of the Innocence and Black Earth: The Broken Daisy, both available in paperback and e-book for almost every e-reader. Check them out at www.davidnalderman.com. This summer I will be releasing the Expired Reality series, a young adult novel series that focuses on those earlier stories that came to me when I was in sixth grade. You can check out my website for updates on these books and to sign up for my free email newsletter which will keep you up to date on my projects, my journey, and my thoughts on writing and self-publishing.

The Remains by Vincent Zandri

2011-06-02T11:52:00.000-07:00

*Giveaway Bonus*

If you enjoy the review below and would like to win The Remains, all you have to do is follow these two simple steps:

1.) Comment on this review by June 15th.

2.) Add your e-mail address at the end of the comment. Your name will be randomly selected and Vincent Zandri will send you a print copy himself!

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When Rebecca Underhill was thirteen and her twin sister Molly was still alive, they ventured into a forest their parents warned them against and explored a creepy, old house they thought could become their 'home away from home.' Turns out it was already claimed...and not by a particularly sane man either. Thirty years later, Rebecca is a painter and art instructor living a pretty lonely life with her ex-husband. No one knows about the terrible things that happened those three hours. She still wrestles with the memories, though - even moreso this year.

There's the mystery text messages and phone calls, for one. But nothing alarms her more than Franny's specialized paintings just for her.

Franny's art is top-of-the notch beautiful and phenomenal. It's expected, what with his title of gifted, autistic art savant. His coming to Rebecca's art center is more a matter of comfort than anything else, since he certainly doesn't need artistic assistance. For the first time, Franny paints a picture specifically for Rebecca, and it's more than a gift. There's a word in there - Listen - that only she and Franny can see. Not her ex-husband. Not her best friend. Just Rebecca and Franny.

As the days go on, there's more paintings, more mystery texts and phone calls, more questionable moments where Rebecca feels as though she's being watched and followed.

Maybe what happened all those years ago isn't as over as she thought.

I remember my first impression of the prologue and the first chapter. I felt a sense of confusion, dread, and excitement for what was ahead. Vincent Zandri's writing is eloquent, easy-flowing, confident and mature. His sentences are as carefully chosen as his words, and I love how realistic his characters are. The story's foundation is steadied by pacing and build-up - the type that makes you ask questions from the get-go.

I wanted to know exactly how a man getting out of jail, a letter to a long gone sister, and a woman who runs an art center connected. Zandri did me the favor of quickly making that clear, yet maintaining mystery in various parts throughout. A lot of the story is step-by-step build up, so don't expect constant action. However, be prepared for a fun, scary ride when it all comes together.

Vincent Zandri on a train from Austria to Venice

Find Zandri

E-mail: Vazandri@aol.com

Official Site: http://www.vincentzandri.com/

Blog: vincentzandri.blogspot.com/

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/278833.Vincent_Zandri

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/vincentzandri

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/?ref=logo#!/pages/Vincent-Zandri-Noir-Author/107201172632352?sk=wall&filter=2

I Apologize

2011-05-31T17:30:00.000-07:00

If I have nothing else to do in a day, it takes me 2-3 hours to finish a book. If I'm really busy with school work and other writing assignments and personal stuff, it should take me 2 weeks at the most.

So I'm apologizing to Vincent Zandri and the authors of the remaining five books on my Upcoming Book List for how long it took me to finish The Remains. There's really no excuse. Sure, things have been hectic, but my reviews and writing endeavors are more than just a hobby. I'll try to pick it up, I promise.

Meanwhile, The Remains is the first book that will be promoted through the 15 Dollar Promotion Plan. Expect much talk and promotion about Zandri's awesome book in the coming days. ^_^ I hope I can pull this off, but I really believe that I can. I just have to work hard, stay focused, and keep my word on every single point. I've already outlined the review. I'll be following up with him and completing the review by tomorrow.

Reminder

David Alderman: If you haven't checked out David Alderman's two part guest post about his journey as a writer and his tips on self-publishing, please do so! Part 2 will be posted on June 4th. It's very informative and well written. I'm glad he agreed to appear.

Triple R's Facebook Page: Finally, there's a page for Triple R on Facebook, which makes sense considering I've done a series on Facebook and Marketing a while ago. Please 'Like' if you haven't already. Triple R needs all the support it can get.

Guest Post: David Alderman and Self Publishing - Part 1

2011-05-28T08:46:00.000-07:00

XxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXx

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Click to read Part 2!

Guest Post: Writer Imani Wisdom and Storytelling

2011-05-21T11:33:00.000-07:00

The Gift of Storytelling

All of my life, I knew writing was my passion. Since the age of eight years old when I wrote my first song lyric, I discovered creating a great story is the mastermind of our entertainment. It’s a template from a writer’s active imagination bringing life to great and memorable movies; such as, Gone with the Wind and Star Wars; television shows like, I love Lucy and The Cosby Show, or legendary songs like, John Lennon’s Imagine and Aretha Franklin’s Respect. Even though at the time I knew the significance at the discovery, I had other interests. I didn’t take writing seriously until twenty years later when it turned from a budding interest into words of healing.

Like any artist, most writers tend to discover their craft during the darkest moments in their lives, and I’m no different. I battled through depression, health issues, and became a caregiver for my mother, aunt, and grandparents. I used to think I was being punished by a higher power for enduring all of those of challenges, and laid in bed crying nightly to pray for something good to come my way. So I waited for a sign. And I waited, and waited, and waited some more. Then one day last year when my depression had grown ominous, I prayed once more out loud asking what my purpose is for living.

Suddenly I had an epiphany. It was crystal clear as if someone or something nudged at my subconscious. I won’t say what the sign entailed, but what I can say it compelled me to finish a short story I had stored on my computer for a few years. This story began with just under 10,000 words turned to a near 300-page manuscript. Strangely, during the time I wrote the untitled story, I realized everything I had wondered about my life was answered by the stroke of my fingers, transferring it from an active imagination into a powerful narrative.

After that sobering day, my life had changed for the better. I’m finally stepping out of the box to pursue my dream to become a published author. Whether you’ve been on the journey through traditional or self-publishing, I can safely say both roads aren’t an easy task.

As I get closer at publishing my short story, Introduction of Nikki Robinson, releasing on eBooks this summer, I’m still learning and growing as a writer, or I prefer to be called, a storyteller. I don’t know if I’ll be like a lot of published authors and throw in the name “author” in front of my name on social networking sites. I am actually proud to call myself just a storyteller. As I stated earlier, writers are indeed the base of our entertainment. So as I say all the time—if you have this gift for storytelling—I don’t see why you can’t write any genre. As long as it’s a great story, you can feed our need for great entertainment.

Guest Post: Tymothy Longoria and Defining A Writer

2011-05-18T06:14:00.000-07:00

Who Am I? I Am Writer.
Yes. That’s what I am. Chances are if you’re reading this you are a writer too, or think you are or you want to be.
Then again you may be a reader. And you rock something fierce.
But really, who am I?
My name is Tymothy Longoria and I am a writer, blogger(really a rambler) and supporter of all things Writer. I am in the final editing stages of my wip, my opus, The Stories:Book One-Genesis, an epic fantasy.
To any who grace Tiffany’s blog with your presence, I thank you and on her behalf I appreciate your love and support.
When I was given the chance to scribble up a guest post I was of course, honored just to be nomina-I mean I was honored just to be asked.
So I thought: Hmm…what to write?…hmmm…*twiddle thumbs, stare at the screen…got it! No, that won’t work…hmmm. Yes, no, no.
Okay. Now I’ve got it.
Let’s talk about a few of the pros and cons of writing. Or rather:

The Pros and Cons of Being a Writer

Cons.
1. Being a Writer is a lonely adventure.

You came to the realization that you are a writer. Maybe it was something you wrote or something you read, either way, when you came to it, you knew it. You believed it. I am a writer! you screamed from within. Maybe even shouted it out…but to whom? Your mother? Father? Friends? Chances are good you were alone when you realized this. Maybe you looked around, amped, excited, wanting to tell the world…but no one was there.
If you have yet to see this, trust me, you’ll get it. You will say: “Shite, he was right.”

2. No one understands you when you say Well, I’m a writer.

Being a writer is weird. I mean where else can you state your chosen profession or career choice and be met with a look that says: Whatchu talkin’ ‘bout?
You do what for a living? You’re trying to do what? You’re what?
All questions many of you have heard. All questions you more than likely have become frustrated over. The answers to those questions probably left you even more frustrated.
Trying to put in a single answer what we do, love to do-is a very difficult task. It shouldn’t be. I mean: “I’m a writer and I’m writing my first book called The Writer’s Journey.” Pretty simple answer, wouldn’t you agree?
But yet, this is the general response: “Yeah, I know…but what do you do?”
See, they just don’t get it. The more we try to explain, the more flustered we and the person asking the question become. This lack of understanding can be detrimental to our success. Because we can easily say, Sheesh no one even understands that this is what I believe in, so why bother?

3. Writing can be hard.

Matter of fact, it is. Here me out. Not everyone can pick up a pen-wait, look at me sounding all 1980’s-not everyone can open up a Word document and write the next best-seller or even a book that will make sense. Now don’t get me wrong. Again, I support anyone who has a dream of being a writer. A Writer. Never will I tell anyone, you can’t do that. BUT-see that? That’s a big but-it takes work. A Writer needs time. Time to hone his/her writing. His/her skills. Agents, publishers, they want us to have a general grasp of grammar and yes, spelling. No, you don’t have to have won Best Punctuation 1997 to write an amazing story. Then how about the story-line? It is interesting? Even Indies-love them-or self-pubbed greats have to have a story worth reading. Writing one sentence can be one of the hardest things a writer can do. Really. Ask around. Getting it right is what turns a mundane line into a great one that can add so much depth to your story. A letter Mark Twain wrote to editor George Bainton states: The difference between the almost right word & the right word is really a large matter--it's the difference between the lightning bug and the lightning.

Word. Being a writer is, for some, and this is also true, a difficult thing to admit for all the reasons above. However, deciding to become one can be the best choice you will ever make. If it is indeed what you want to do.

Pros.
1. Writing no longer has to be a lonely journey.

Been on the internet lately? You’re missing out if you said no to this question. Whether or not you declare out loud that you’re a writer people are supportive of you. Understatement. Of. The. Year.
I have met all my Writing Friends, my Supporters, My #BNFF’s, My #YASB peeps-online. This is a universe. Each of these groups are communities within this universe, and many of the people in one group are in the next. That’s the way it is. We embrace each other like family. We push and pull each other. We inspire each other to reach further into ourselves to find something we never knew we had. Strength. Determination. The will to do what we want to do. I never thought that when my wife told me “Yes, you are a writer” that I would be embraced so epically as I have been. It really is amazing when a brilliant writer raves about how “epic” you are. Or when this published author calls you the coolest thing ever! No, I’m not boasting about any of this. I’m saying that you receive so much love and respect from fellow writers. From readers who believe in your talents and your words. It really does something to your soul. At least for me it does. My Friends in all of these places, if you’re reading this, this means YOU. I am not lonely. Because I have all of you next to me.

2. When you know it. You know it. Now believe it.

I wrote a guest post for my #BNFF Christin Mowery, a talented and blessed Writer entitled: Am I A Writer? http://www.christinmowery.com/guest-blog-post-am-i-a-writer-tymothy-longoria/ and let me tell you, I meant it. I know I’m a writer. It was one of the best moments in my life. Because after that, I knew nothing could stop me. No one could get in my way of accomplishing what I wanted. It would be me who allowed negativity to hinder my progress. It would be me who let a few unoriginal or distasteful remarks stop me from being who I knew I was. When you know you’re a writer, you know you’re a writer. My blog is called Aspire No More for a reason. Stop telling yourself, I’m trying to be this or do that. Cut ties with the mentality that doesn’t allow you to truly believe in yourself and your gifts. Or your ability to make them grow. This is a pro because it’s akin to the moment the warrior finally realizes he had the strength and the power all along. He had only to believe. That is why it is such a timeless and oft used moment in the greatest stories of all time. The power of believing in who you are. For me my faith plays the biggest role-and my Friends are right there with me.

3. Writing can be hard. Not writing is harder.

When all is said and done or as I like to say, when all is written and done, what’s left? More writing. You know you’re a writer when you love to write. So there. If you don’t love it, then you probably shouldn’t be doing it. It’s like that with anything. So on this one the rules stays the same. How is this a pro, you may ask? You understand that no matter how much you’ve written, it will be never be enough. And THAT is something truly inspiring and compelling.
You can never really run out of things to write about. It’s not like any other job. It’s not a job at all. It never will be. It’s equal parts excitement, mystery, epicness, passion…I smile when I do it. My music plays loud and I sing along with the words as I write. As Allie Burke, blogger at http://allieburke.blogspot.com/ says, I often say YES when I write, too.
So in writing this guest post for my Friend and future Author Tiffany Cole, I say YES.

There are of course so many more one could add to this list, but I hope you receive it and take something away from my words. Be inspired. Be moved. Be challenged.
Remember, when you call yourself a writer and put that coat on, you must be willing to wear it…always.

Be blessed.
@TymothyLongoria
http://tymothylongoria.wordpress.com/
http://www.facebook.com/TheStoriesBookOne

Guest Post: Writer Tiffany White

2011-05-07T09:09:00.000-07:00

Writing, for me, is like a Catholic sacrament. An individual procession towards immortality. I write from what I know so a lot of time my characters are caricatures of people I know or once knew. In my current WIP the characters are real and I've loved each one of them so it is important to me to fully draw them, as homage, and not make them one dimensional. The story is raw and visceral. I was going to market it as upper YA- if it ever gets picked up.

The story centers around two teenage girls living in a group home. They are opposites in certain aspects and equally as headstrong. They don't bicker- they fight, literally, physically, verbally. But they are both searching, both from tragic pasts that shape their present rough exterior. But one moment changes their view of one another and after another incident involving a boy they both loved, they find in each other the strength and fortitude they need.

It is a hard one to write because though it is fictional it mirrors reality, or my reality. I hope the people I've written about enjoy it, experience it and find closure.

And hopefully not sue me. :-)

Guest Post: Author/Artist Thomas P. Barczak

2011-04-30T08:51:00.000-07:00

I started writing Veil of the Dragon about nine years ago with the dialogue between what would become the two main characters, Chaelus and Al-Aaron.

A man and a boy, a student and his teacher. I fell in love with their paradox. The constant one that would guide me through the rest of the book.

But the inspiration for Veil of the Dragon came even before that, in my paintings and in my music, and even again before that, when I was a kid sitting at a table with friends playing Dungeons and Dragons.

Everything in between is like a big sack that I draw from, images and feelings that have stayed with me, waiting to be written.
So I write them.

With my day job as an Architect, and with my family, along with other commitments, that is sometimes difficult. But it’s not impossible.

But I have had to learn balance. As I have done so, I have learned there is always enough time in the day to do the things I am supposed to do. When I get into trouble is when I pick up the things that I am not supposed to.

Yet another pitfall is not setting myself up to fail. It is rare that I have several hours at a stretch to write. But what I do have nearly every day, is 15 minutes, somewhere. So sometimes I just have to learn to be happy with that. And most days I am.

And when I can’t write the words, I draw them.

One of the decisions that I made along the way is that Veil of the Dragon is going to be an illustrated novel. I just don’t think it cannot be.

That’s not to say that either the writing or artwork could not stand up on their own, because I believe they do. But I believe they work better together. I am doing it because I can do both, and I know that not everyone else gets to. They get to do other stuff.

All this is very exciting for me.

It is a brave new world.

Regarding the status of things, I am waiting to hear back on Veil of the Dragon from a publisher I really like. While I wait, I am working on chapter illustrations and making minor revisions to Veil. I am already established into the second book, Mouth of the Dragon.

In between all of that I do my best to network.

As for the ever changing publishing industry in general, I am both excited and somewhat apprehensive. My vision imagines the return of the small bookseller, with slightly higher prices, but with an online portal directly to Amazon so that they can get a cut while their patrons grab a cup a coffee at their espresso bar.

Until then you can always visit my Author’s website at www.tombarczak.com
Or my blog at www.tombarczak.com/blog
Or even follow me @barczaktom on Twitter.

God Bless.
Tom Barczak

Review Plan!

2011-04-29T15:16:00.000-07:00

New idea, and I'm very excited about it!

So, I won't really be able to call this plan fully official until I finish my current Upcoming Book List, but I'd like to know beforehand. If you're an author who really wants coverage for their book, would you be willing to pay the cheap price of five bucks for this Review Plan?

Q's and A's with J.S. Chancellor

2011-04-23T11:46:00.000-07:00

Novel-Specific

1.) Ariana, the female main character in 'Son of Ereubus,' is feisty, powerful, and strong-willed, and not in that cliche way action chicks often are either. She grew throughout the story, became more open-minded to the world around her and gained authority. How similar are you to Ariana?

*Thank you, first of all. I love hearing that Ariana has been perceived exactly as I see her. I’ve had readers who know me well, tell me that even had they not been aware that I’d written Son of Ereubus, that they would have figured it out because I am SO much like Ariana that its unmistakable. Aside from the obvious physical attributes (I have long red hair, pale skin and blue eyes), I also have her sarcasm and sense of brash courage. What I don’t have, however, are her equestrian and archery skills. That’s something I hope to remedy one day.

2.) In my review, I summarized my thoughts about the romance between Ariana and Garren as follows: "Generally, I love that the romance never takes the story over, while also enhancing it and being of importance to the overall plot." How did you want readers to react to their romance?

*Exactly as you stated it—literally. In fact in the early early stages of the draft, I nearly wrote that exact line in the journal I was using to plot Guardians in. Their love story is the heart of the overall epic, but what makes each novel unique on its own, is the individual stories of the secondary characters; Bronach, Azrian, Duncan, Sara, Gabriel, Aiden, Tadraem and how they all interact with the three principle characters.

3.) In other articles about you, I read that it took you about 14 years to complete 'Son of Ereubus.' Was that just for the first book or the other two books in 'Guardians of Legend' trilogy as well? Was there a particular section in 'Son of Ereubus' you struggled with the most?

*Actually, I’m not entirely sure where that came from. I’ve read it myself and all I can figure is that it was assumed that when I said I drafted the first couple chapters of what is now Son of Ereubus when I was fourteen, that I worked on the books the entire time between then and signing my contract with Rhemalda, but that simply isn’t true. I stopped and didn’t pick the story up again until July of 2006. I finished all three books in a year, then set them aside for 6 months before beginning the process of revision and editing, and after that my grandmother-in-law helped set me up with a freelance editor who went through my final draft and taught me how to polish a manuscript. So, all in all, you could technically say it took me 14 years, but it really only took about 2.

*The area I’ve struggled with the most so far in the series has been keeping facts straight. Guardians of Legend is the first trilogy in a planned set of three. So, there aren’t three books, there are nine. This world—these characters—all of it is HUGE. The world building has been shown little by little because it would be WAY too much to reveal all at once. My desk is littered with genealogies, maps and story archs. More than a few readers have stated that the beginning of Son of Ereubus confused them, and that they were grateful that we included a glossary at the back of the book, and my fervent hope is that the further they get into the story, the more tangible the world itself will become, and the more easily understood. For the record, since I’ve mentioned the other books, Guardians is a stand-alone trilogy. There will only be one thread left undone at the end of the trilogy, and it’s relatively minor in the scheme of things (at the time anyway. It turns up to be a BIG deal later on). So, rest assured, all of the bomb dropping will be over with soon. The second trilogy, Origins, goes back in time and picks up where The Dark Goddess Ciara entered into Middengard, Irial and Eanna’s past, etc.

4.) In a lot of reviews, people have consistently brought up J. R. R. Tolkien. I even did that in my review, when I said, "The story ends similar to the first book of Lord of the Rings, in that there are many loose threads and much more at stake than when the story started." How do you feel about people comparing your work to that of Tolkien's?

*I’m always a little stunned whenever I see his name come up. I mean … I’ve said it myself only because I couldn’t think of any other fantasy author my in-laws would recognize by name, but when real fantasy fans liken my worlds to his (in a good way, not in a you’ve-ripped-off-Tolkien kind of way), I’m always blown away. It’s the greatest honor I can imagine.

5.) When reading the story, I couldn't help but compare Adorians to angels and Ereubinians to demons. Is it a good or bad thing for readers to go into this story with those comparisons? Did you go into this story with those comparisons?

*I think it’s a good thing if it helps the reader put the story into a paradigm that they can understand. I grew up religious, so those sorts of images are always going to be threaded into my work one way or another. I purposely steered away from the titles and direct religious references (aside from Michael and Gabriel) because I wanted the reader to make their own choices on how to see these characters and these worlds. So, to answer your question, yes I did go into this story with those comparisons, but at this point, as familiar as I am now with the world I’ve created and the characters that inhabit it, they’ve become something else entirely and those comparisons, for me, are no longer truly valid.

General Writing

1.) I suppose I should've asked this before the novel-specific questions, but can you tell us about your book(s)?

*I’m so bad at that. You’d think that with the second book coming up soon (and five total under contract) that I’d have a better handle on answering that question. Guardians of Legend is a classic epic fantasy tale, told in the tradition of Clash of the Titans, with a little dash of age-old heroism and modern sarcasm thrown in for good measure. Truly epic in every sense of the word, there isn’t one main character. In Guardians, the reader follows a cast of diverse, multi-faceted characters as they navigate the unraveling fate of their individual lives, and the world they think they know.

2.) Why do you write? How has writing changed your life?

*I write because I have no choice. No, really, I mean that. I’ve been writing stories since I could hold a pencil. My earliest memories are of winning (or being in the running for, can’t recall which) the Young Georgia Author’s Award when I was 6. I was too enamored with the candy peanuts they were serving at the ceremony to care. So, perhaps that was an omen for how I would view later literary success: Irrelevant so long as the candy floweth, and the story is read by someone, somewhere, regardless of who they are, or where.

3.) What's an interesting/embarrasing/funny fact about your writing process that you haven't shared...until now? Also, give us writers open to writing techniques some of yours!

*Oooo, so many, where to start: I think I’ve been in love with most of my male leads at one time or another. I’ve caught myself thinking about them like a teenager dreams about whichever star is currently hogging the pages of Tigerbeat or Big Bopper (are those mags even in print anymore?) So sad. I even pick actors to visualize in my head.

Character Take-Over

Character name: Azrian, Dark Lord of Hothrendaire, all around bad ass.
From: Guardians of Legend

1.) Pretend that you're actually a character in a novel. What would you tell the writer who created you?

*We need to have a serious chat about book three. I’ve heard rumors about what you think you’re going to do to me in revisions. These … ahem … changes, and the outcome of Eternal Requiem (what kind of name is that anyway? It reeks of goodness and light. Bleck!) is entirely unsuitable.

2.) Where's your favorite place to be and favorite thing to do?

*Well, messing with mortals does get a bit old after awhile, seeing as how they’re awfully predictable. But, since you’re asking, I want to be anywhere Ariana is … and as far away from Irial as immortally possible.

3.) The old lady down the street is rushing at you with an Uzi. How do you react?

*An Uzi? Interesting. Well, considering that I am, of course, the father of Darkness and mayhem, I suppose I’d be telling her which way to point the thing. Though, the Uzi is such an ineffective weapon. Haven’t you ever heard of a Morior? They’re much more entertaining to use against a foe (not that I really have any). They’re particularly fun when it’s feeding time. Got any enemies you need dispatched?

Thanks Tiff! I can honestly say these were the most original, and most fun questions I’ve answered in a LONG time! Thank you SOO much for having me at Triple R: It’s an honor!

J.S.

The Law of Nines by Terry Goodkind

2011-04-22T09:00:00.000-07:00

Alex's day officially becomes odd when a pirate flag, a truck, and a beautiful girl suddenly relate to him. While waiting at the curb, the flag above the truck grabs his attention -- the girl, not so much; at least not until he learns the hard way that he should've been watching the scary man driving the truck. Alex pulled him and the mysterious girl back seconds before they could become roadkill. Had the police not approached, the man might have attempted to kill them again.

What a great, startling way to start a twenty-seventh birthday.

Jax, the girl Alex saved from the truck, adds to this confusion when she explains why she needs to talk to Alex. The Law of Nines, an important concept in Jax's world, states that threes -- pivotal spell numbers -- are a base component of nine. Twenty-seven is key because it's the third nine. Not only is Alex twenty-seven, but his last name is Rahl, making him a descendent of the once powerful House of Rahl.

That name and that age makes Alex a walking death signal for himself and everyone close to him. There's little to no safe place from the ruthless killers ready to take out anyone to get the answers that they want.
Can Alex, a struggling artist, and Jax, a girl more accustomed to a world with magic, save both of their worlds? Even when it seems impossible, this duo maintains a high amount of strength and intelligence. Terry Goodkind weaves a riveting story that proves the power of partnerships.

Reviewed by Tiffany T. Cole for Suspense Magazine.

Changes...

2011-04-17T10:05:00.000-07:00

After seeking advice and many nights of thinking, thinking, thinking, I've decided to make some changes to Triple R. Why? It all goes back to me being one person - an 18-year-old with lofty goals and many commitments both personally and professionally who will be going to college June 18th. I want to try my hardest, but without burning myself out, so changes are ahead. They are as follows:

1.) I will only do TWO guest appearances a month instead of a new guest appearance every Saturday.
2.) I will no longer do Freebie Friday and I am taking the newsletter option away.
3.) I won't be writing articles here unless said article can be turned into a web series, and I won't do web series' very often. The Facebook guide was my first one.
4.) A post every Tuesday will NOT be necessary. I will post whenever I can, preferably when I have a book review in need of promotion.

Of course, none of this will come into effect until I finish this upcoming round of guest appearances and until I finish the first ten books on my Upcoming Book List. Afterward, I'm probably gonna take a break for a month or two to better work on my novel and other freelancing projects.

I love what I do; I don't have any intentions to stop because this is what makes me who I am, but I do know when to slow down. Thanks for reading this!

Frost Bitten by Kelley Armstrong

2011-04-12T16:03:00.000-07:00

Elena Michaels, the world's only female werewolf and main candidate for Pack leader, is determined to help Reese...even if that means chasing him through three cities for days on end. She knows he didn't kill those people in South Carolina, that the mutts he thought could help him assimilate to the werewolf lifestyle in America framed him, because Elena couldn't save a young werewolf from a similar case once before. She is determined not to make the same mistake twice.

When Clay - Elena's werewolf husband notorious for being vicious - comes back, they continue the chase in Anchorage, Alaska. In Anchorage, though, there's much more to worry about than Reese. One thing leads to another, and the couple quickly finds themselves investigating into mutts, murder, and a terrifying werewolf more beast than man. Then there's the personal stakes, too. Can Elena overcome her fears and accept that she will one day be Alpha Wolf, even if the title may greatly alter her relationship with Clay?

Overall, I liked the book. Though I haven't read any of the books before this one, I didn't feel confused, like I was missing too big a piece of the puzzle to understand the plot. Still, I would like the next book I read by Kelley Armstrong to be the first book of the Otherworld series so I can see how the characters have grown.

The writing is clear and direct, which makes the book easier to read; this also enhances the action, though I'm not sure how I felt about all the chases and fights. Don't get me wrong; I love reading action-packed scenes as much as I love writing them. However, at some point, I felt disillusioned with the action.

******************
My name is Tiffany Cole, and I'm a book reviewer for Suspense Magazine, a contributor for the Best Damn Creative Writing Blog (BDCWB) and the admin of Triple R, a book reviewing site. I am also an aspiring young writer. Savior of the Damned, the supernatural/dark urban fantasy novel I've been writing and editing for five years, is currently undergoing its 6th revision for what will hopefully be a successful full manuscript submission to the wonderful publishing house that requested one. You can find me in many places:
writergirllw@yahoo.com http://www.fuisti.blogspot.com/ {Triple R: Read, Rate, Review}http://www.tiffanyrambles.blogspot.com http://www.suspensemagazine.com/
http://www.rhemalda.com/public_forum/ http://www.bestdamncreativewritingblog.com/ http://www.tinyurl.com/27x9sdz {My Facebook}

Guest Post: Atomic Fez Publishing and Bringing Fun Back

2011-04-09T09:09:00.000-07:00

House Name: Atomic Fez Publishing
Manager: Ian Alexander Martin (although he does everything short of write the books and create the covers, so "Manager" seems a tad limiting).
Date Est.: May 2009
Submissions: I've got more than enough right now...let's say "not accepting" and be safe.
Genre: ...is "yes" an acceptable answer? Anything with a touch of humour and a bit of uniqueness, really. Mystery, Slip-stream, Steapmpunk, SF, and fiction. No poetry; no romance. Non-fiction slightly possible, but it's gotta be different.
Size: Tiny. One man. Shallow pockets (actually, no pockets at all). Both e-books and paper.
Contact: ian@atomicfez.com

*******************

You probably haven’t heard of Atomic Fez Publishing before because it’s fairly new. Atomic Fez is a Vancouver, BC-based Canadian publisher founded in May 2009. The publishing company formally launched in March 2010 at the World Horror Convention in Brighton, UK. Given the long lead time required to produce books, Atomic Fez is still a relatively new publisher. We published five books in 2010 and plan to release another four in 2011.

Atomic Fez publishes ‘eclectic, genre-busting fiction. This sounds neat, but confuses some people. To explain, the five titles published in 2010 span a variety of genres and combine elements of several in each book. For example, The Terror and the Tortoiseshell, John Travis’s first in the Benji Spriteman Series, combines elements of fantasy, mystery, noir, and science fiction as the animal kingdom moves from four legs to two and banishes the human population. Benji Spriteman is a sentient, six-foot tall, suit-wearing tortoiseshell cat. And one heck of a detective too. Thus, you get four styles of fiction in one book, plus a cat.

Why this seemingly un-focused approach to things? Because it’s more interesting. Not all books are ‘serious works of ahrt.’ When I started Atomic Fez, I wanted to bring some of the fun back into the publishing business and produce books whose primary purpose was to entertain rather than instruct.

Take, for example, the logo: the absurdity of the fez as a piece of headgear in combination with the hope of the dawning of the 'atomic age’ – that kind of retro glam – made me laugh. Books should surprise, entertain, and occasionally elevate your mood. Why not, for instance, cross Mad Men with The Jetsons and see what happens?

Atomic Fez believes eBooks should never cost more than the average price of a mass-market paperback, and has always released its titles in both printed and eBook format simultaneously. This year we're going to experiment with the publishing schedule a bit.

Two of our five 2010 titles were published in jacket-less hardcover format; the other three as trade paperbacks. We're going to do our best this year to reduce production costs so we can also reduce the cost to the consumer. We're also going to consider more trade paperback publishing and – potentially – publishing of eBooks prior to printed versions.

Late in 2010 we reduced our eBook pricing by 33%. Most eBook titles are now $6.99, while shorter books like Andrew Hook’s Ponthe Oldenguine are only $4.99. We'd like to achieve similar price reductions for our paper books – while still managing to pay the printer, the authors and ourselves.

Atomic Fez does not believe – regardless of any issues relating to piracy or illegal downloading – that eBook sales 'cannibalize' printed book sales. In fact, eBooks actually allow for simultaneous worldwide distribution and save consumers both time and money on shipping costs.

Follow and interact with me on Twitter using @AtomicFez, ‘like’ the Facebook page at facebook.com/AtomicFezPublishing, and visit the site at AtomicFez.com. Or join our Goodreads group to see interviews with the Atomic Fez authors: http://www.goodreads.com/group/show/40127.Atomic_Fez_Publishing

Freebie Friday #8: Rhemalda Publishing Freebie Package

2011-04-08T15:34:00.000-07:00

Rhemalda Publishing guest appeared on Triple R not too long ago. If you'd like to know more about the house, go to its website and/or read what they had to say when they guest appeared.

I have much respect for Rhemalda and its endeavors, including how they've grasped the marketing technique of free book giveaways. First, they did so with J.S. Chancellor's giveaway of Son of Ereubus. Now they're doing so with other books of theirs. Here are some links that will point you to some of these giveaways! (All descriptions come from the site or form).

300 Book Giveaway: Rhemalda Publishing and Authors J. S. Chancellor, Walter Rhein and J. Marie Croft are offering 100 copies of 'Son of Ereubus; Guardians of Legend, Book One', 'The Bone Sword' and 'Mr. Darcy Takes the Plunge' to readers who want to help promote the books. If you enjoy reading and want to help promote these books please fill out the form below.

King’s Envoy; Artesans of Albia, Book One by Cas Peace: Rhemalda Publishing and Author Cas Peace are hosting a blog tour for King's Envoy; Artesans of Albia, Book One. The tour will begin on the publication date of King's Envoy August 15, 2011 and run for 1 month. Here's your chance! Fill out the form below for a chance to receive a copy of King's Envoy while supplies last. ARC's are available in print and electronic format (.epub and .epf).

Beyond Birkie Fever by Walter Rhein: Rhemalda Publishing and Author Walter Rhein are hosting a blog tour for Beyond Birkie Fever. The tour will begin on the publication date of Beyond Birkie Fever October 1, 2011 and run for 1 month. Here's your chance! Fill out the form below for a chance to receive a copy of Beyond Birkie Fever while supplies last. ARC's are available in print and electronic format (.epub and .epf).

Legends Reborn; The Light of Epertase, Book One: Rhemalda Publishing and Author Douglas R. Brown are hosting a blog tour for Legends Reborn; The Light of Epertase, Book One. The tour will begin on the publication date of Legends Reborn, August 1, 2011 and run for 1 month. Here's your chance! Fill out the form below for a chance to receive a copy of Legends Reborn while supplies last. ARC's are available in print and electronic format (.epub and .epf).

Rhemalda Opus: Features articles on writing, author interviews, the story behind their house, and book descriptions.

Guest Post: Maggie Berkley and Love/Perspective

2011-04-05T15:04:00.000-07:00

I watched a movie a few days ago with my son and the undertone of it got me thinking about love. In the movie the 'antihero' is thrown together willingly with the heroine. He's rough and irritated with her and in fear of her life, she does everything she can to keep him amused. Once she has his defenses lowered she tries to escape only to be attacked and once again her life is in danger. This time though the antihero rushes to her protection, defending her against her attackers and in the midst of a big standoff she wordlessly declared herself under his protection. After he defeats her attackers they create a sort of familiar bond and relax into peace and contentment until she is stolen away by those who sought to rescue her from the antihero. His protective nature is kicked into overdrive as he pursues her rescuers, destroying everything in his path in order to reach her and taking more than his fair share of wounds in the process, but in the end winds he up disabled and taken prisoner. The heroine objects to his imprisonment, and leaves as soon as they return to their homeland.

The movie ends with them being reunited and they have a brief moment of peace and joy until once again they are pursued and he, protecting the heroine from danger and suffering from wounds, gives himself over to death that she might live. As always I wind up crying while watching it, to see such a profound love always chokes me up. My son, of course, joked at my expense, rolling his eyes and making quips about how the twosome were mismatched and how sexually their relationship was impossible, while I tried to explain to him love was more than sex. That it was a bond...the ability to connect with someone on a level so deep that you knew they would do everything in their power to keep you safe and protected, both physically and emotionally. That they would give you unconditional support and understanding, that nothing you could say or do would affect the way they felt about you. They would never abandon you, never turn from you, never give you a doubt that they loved you. The kind of love that when you glance over at your husband sprawled on the couch snoring loud enough to wake the dead you want to smack him for not joining in on your heartfest.

Yes, my husband has never done any of the things the antihero did (after all, he's still alive, thank God!) but in his own way he has shown me his love. When I have nightmares he comforts, when I'm sad he consoles me. When I'm angry he gets me to see reason and when I'm insecure he makes me feel beautiful. Would he do everything in his power to keep me safe? Yes, for I've seen it in the past and I can hear it in his voice. How many men would do a beat down on some guy who refused to back away from their woman? And how many men would cry (and try to hide their tears while denying there was anything but a speck in their eyes) during the Notebook and the Time Traveler's Wife? Although we are no longer young and spry, despite the fact that grey hairs are starting to spread over our heads and we wake up sore and stiff he's still my antihero. My gruff, prickly, ogreish hero...who snores loud enough to win a chainsaw competition.

BTW...in case you're wondering, the movie wasn't some romantic drama or even a romance at all. In fact the main characters weren't even part of the same species. One was a human female, slightly emotionally damaged. The other is a giant gorilla, the last of his kind. The movie? King Kong directed by Peter Jackson starring Naomi Watts, Jack Black and Adrien Brody. To me, one of the most beautiful love stories I've ever seen. Watch it some time to see what I mean.

~ ~ ~

As a long time lover of dark fantasy with a touch of romance and horror, Maggie Berkley grew up in a world all her own, one she created as a teenager during her long periods of parental lockdown due to a rebellious nature. As a youth she created short stories and plays for friends and family and as time went on drew on her love of fantasy and horror to write longer stories and fan fiction. Due to the encouragement of family and friends she published and now has two full length e-book novels (Enter the Night: Book One of the Morgan Crowe trilogy, Behind the Throne: Book Two of the Morgan Crowe trilogy) and a short story (Diary of a Vampire). Books are available at Red Rose Publishing, Fictionwise, Bookstrand, and Amazon.

You can contact her at maggieberkley@yahoo.com with any questions or comments or follow her at http://maggieberkley.viviti.com , http://facebook.com/maggieberkley , http://twitter.com/maggieberkley .

The Contest A Flop...

2011-04-04T14:47:00.000-07:00

Here's the honest truth. Not sugarcoated or anything. Remember Triple R's First Big Book Giveaway Contest?

It was a total flop, with little to no participation and no entries at all. :/

I didn't waste any time being depressed or angry about this. These days, definitely since I've been learning more about myself thanks to the help of a special certain someone, I've been more willing to take a deep breath and think, "It's not the end of the world when things don't work out. Just breathe, think, and handle it."

With my contest and it's massive failure, I have to take the things below into account. I'm not sure I'll be doing another one of these contests for a while:

Lasted too long.
Not enough coverage, even though I tried to put the link to the contest in every post and had event pages in multiple places.
My presence and Triple R's presence is not strong enough.
Too many details.

So, how many of you out there tried to manage something big, like a contest or a collection or a site or whatever, and just watched it totally not work out in the end? What do you think were the reasons that made it not work out? Are you willing to try again?

Site Updated!

2011-03-28T17:12:00.000-07:00

I usually don't post on Monday's, nor will I start, but this Monday is different! I just spent about 4 hours updating Triple R and I want to share those updates with you now instead of, well, tomorrow. >.< Why couldn't I wait another day? Tomorrow I'm going into insane nerd mode and only studying for the Academic Super Bowl.

1.) Tip Jar: If you look to the right, there should be a Tip Jar box and Donate button. A friend brought to my attention that it wasn't working before now, so I fixed it. If you can donate just one dollar, ONE DOLLAR, it will make my day. For serious. I need the money.

2.) The Index: It's finally updated! Every book review and freebie and guest appearance up until today should be there.

I removed a page and generally changed the featured stuff on Triple R, like the trailer for Douglas Brown's Light of Epertase: Legends Reborn and the new upcoming book to be reviewed (The Remains by Vincent Zandri). That is all!

Tempting the Fire by Sydney Croft

2011-03-28T16:34:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the Agency for Covert Rare Operatives (ACRO), an organization large enough to train and house various divisions of powerful beings: psychics, seducers, earth shakers, elementals...you name it, and ACRO probably has it. The beings at ACRO are more than just 'specials'; they're people with real issues and real desires, and this realness comes forth even moreso during missions.

Though we readers are introduced to quite a few characters and interesting side plots, it's seducers Sela and Marlena who lead the main plot. The story really starts when Dev, ACRO's leader, sends Sela the devastating video of what happened to the team of Navy SEALs in the Brazilian rain forest -- all but one member, Chance, gets brutally murdered by a creature identified as a chupucabra.

What with Sela being a skeptical cryptozoologist and a seducer with the skill to break into a person's deepest thoughts during sex, it only makes sense that Dev would send her into the forest undercover, along with Marlena. There, in the heat and danger, things go delightfully and horribly wrong. The mission starts off simple enough -- break into Logan's mind and learn about the creature. However, that mission was created before affection was involved.

At first, I dreaded that there would be so much sex that it would hinder my desire to focus on the plot. That wasn't the case at all. Now, don't get me wrong; there was plenty of steamy sex, but it didn't stop me from falling in love with all the characters (especially Creed and Stryker) or laughing or being glued to the page at the wonderful battle scenes. In fact, I've honestly become a fan of the series, and I very much wish that I had started from book one instead of book five.

Reviewed for Suspense Magazine by Tiffany T. Cole

Guest Post: Daniel Convery and Creativity

2011-03-27T07:22:00.000-07:00

Hi. I’d firstly like to thank Tiffany for including me in such a guest line up, and I must say I feel like an amateur by comparison. Like everyone however I have been trying to be heard since the very moment I kicked my mother from the inside. Thankfully there are no accounts of such incidents-mysteriously a hospital fire destroyed my mum’s ultrasounds. Despite her purported bruising, I plead not guilty by way of unsubstantiated evidence.

From my early years I developed a love of words, however opted for an inaudible vocabulary, rather immersing myself in the quiet but far from quiescent world of ballet. Using my hands, by age 5, I learnt to say “I love you”, while others’ hands were clenched, pummelling me further into a state of somewhat selective introversion. Suffice to say ballet wasn’t considered a popular Aussie male pastime…ironically, chasing 18 other guys on a football field was.

Pursuing my passion, I began to explore other creative avenues, having always been a dreamer, conjuring up ideas and situations that have given me solace in my less fortunate times, not that I can honestly say I have lived in darkness long enough at any one time that I’d forgotten where the light switch was. I attended extracurricular art classes, dabbling in drawing, sculpture, and photography, as well as having an insatiable desire to read and learn about all things art related, which in turn abetted me in my strive for an intangible excellence in all other peripheral endeavours at the time, daring to dream, wanting desperately to depart the humdrum of suburban life and engage with as broad an audience as a shy guy wearing tights, make up, and ballet slippers could. Remaining mute was not an option, especially as my inner voice was getting to become quite annoying. It was time to annoy someone else!

This brings me to the present, which is so called as like with any gift the moment immediately following its reveal, it could be the difference between looking in the mirror, beaming ear to ear at such a beauteous reflection, and pounding a loved one with ‘luck’ rhyming verbal malevolence for not acknowledging the hard fought shed kilos! These days I earn an honest living teaching ballet to part time and semi vocational students, having quickstepped through a myriad of temporary, mind numbing jobs since my professional jaunt as a ballet dancer. However my heart these days lies with the opportunities I get to sit, think, and grab the nearest notating instrument-pen and paper, mobile phone, or laptop, having since dispensed with the Etch-A-Sketch-to write my thoughts, observations, and current personal predicaments, those poignant and whimsical to later incorporate them into my written undertakings.

Creatively, I am currently working on a number of unfinished screenplays having been guided to this medium by my girlfriend who has worked in this field for a number of years. I have been blessed to have had many opportunities to collaborate with her on many occasions in both commercial conceptualisation and scripting as well as short film script writing and editing. The commercial writing is a lot of fun, and has provided countless hours of comical relief, conjuring up situations befitting each brand, keeping the chief demographic in mind while appealing to their emotional connection to a specific product or service via means of an audiovisual marriage to which they can relate. It’s a wonder I am not yet a horizontally challenged insomniac, considering all the late night pizzas and copious amounts of caffeine I have indulged in while sitting with my laptop, reading a client’s brief and pondering the plethora of serious and side splitting scenarios that could mean the difference between a long term client and a diminishing drawing board.

Aside from the joys I derive from my creative endeavours, I also am chief writer and editor for fashion website www.stylemenow.com.au. Although less subjective and requiring a more journalistic approach, I often enjoy deviating from the drab of objectivity, often employing imagery and jocularity in what is generally a subject specific forum for descriptive banality, given the high turnover of articles on the same subject matter. The fashion fitting adjective pool is as limited as the thread count on a g-string, hence I revel in the challenge to engage with the readers in a way that not only draws attention to the brands therein, but also the brand we have created by way of the less conservative style employed in the site’s content. Having only been ‘live’ now for little more than 8 months we are steadily evolving, as is my personal writing folio which has, pooled together with my screenplay works in progress, just assisted me in gaining entry into a post graduate course in Professional Writing, majoring in Scriptwriting which I hope to study part time starting next semester.

Once again I’d like to thank Tiffany for allowing me the honour of appearing on her wonderful site, and each and every one of you for indulging me in my other passion-speaking about myself!

Thoughts on 'Florida Gothic Stories' by Vicki Hendricks

2011-03-23T15:26:00.000-07:00

Since this is a book given to me by Suspense Magazine, meaning I can't post my review for it until the editor gives me permission, I can't give anything here but very general thoughts on the book. However, I WILL post the official review on Triple R and the 6 other venues I usually post my reviews as soon as I can.

I liked the stories within. They made for great discussion and gave me the powerful impression that Vicki is a brave writer who doesn't let taboo, controversial topics tie her down. She has a courageous, realistic, surreal, easy-flowing writing streak I hope to develop one day.

Florida Gothic Stories is definitely not for everyone, but read it if you're willing to open your mind and heart.

The Business Card

2011-03-22T15:34:00.000-07:00

A couple days ago, I put in an order for 250 free business cards through Vistaprint. They should be coming either sometime this week or next week or the week after that (Had to use a money order, which makes me slightly nervous), and I can't wait! The card doesn't exactly say what you see underneath my name in the picture. I changed it to Webmistress, Freelance Writer, Reviewer, Editor. I'll start to say I'm a paranormal writer when I've actually proven myself as one.

Hm...considering I created this card as a business card for Triple R and not myself, I probably should have put my name below and Triple R above. >.< Anyway, I hope these cards will get Triple R more followers and newsletter subscribers. I plan on randomly placing the cards in books at libraries and bookstores.

In a previous post, I expressed happiness about having both April and May's guest slots filled. I won't do another Guest Appearance Preview until all the guests for March go, but I can at least list the names of those who will be appearing.

General Updates

The Florida Gothic Stories by Vicki Hendricks: So, I finished it not too long ago. It will be the first time I've reviewed a short story collection, but I haven't gotten to the review just yet. I don't think it'll be so hard, since I took notes on each short story while I read it and I already have random tidbits of the review floating around in my head.
Suspense Magazine: I got four new books from them today, which means I can finally create my next set of Upcoming Books comfortably. There are already a couple of books I've promised author friends that I would read, review, and publicize as soon as I can. So far, I've got 6 more books to review before my first list is done and I can weigh it's success and take a small break.
Daniel Convery: 3/26/2011. There's not many people who can make conversations about art, culture, and life in general so fun and informal. Daniel Convery - ballet dancer, teacher, scriptwriter, and site editor for Style Me Now Australia - is a man of many talents. I can't wait to see what he, as a scriptwriter and site editor, chooses to focus on in his guest post.
Variance Publishing: They guest appeared on the 19th, and their guest post was very successful! In fact, the most successful post on Triple R yet. It has 25+ comments and five people won a free book of their choosing. This Friday I was going to do a Variance Freebie Friday Package, but I'm putting it off until a Friday next month, to spread some time between the giveaways in their guest post. However, I will be doing a Rhemalda Freebie Friday Package this Friday.

Guest Post: Variance and Promotion

2011-03-19T09:19:00.000-07:00

House Name: Variance Publishing
Manager: Timothy P Schulte - Publisher/Owner
Date Est.: April 2008
Submissions: Not Accepting
Genre: Thriller; Creature Feature; political; military; YA; fantasy; action; adventure; techno-thriller
Size: Small
Contact: General Inquiry: stremblay@variancepublishing.com

***************************

First, I’d like to thank Tiffany for allowing me to take part in her blog; it means a lot to be invited along. Variance is a small indie publisher that packs a great deal of talent - folks like NY Times bestselling authors Steve Alten and Payne Harrison, #1 UK bestselling author Steven Savile, and a host of fresh and rising stars in the industry including AJ Tata and Jeremy Robinson. Not only do we have a hardcover line, but also paperback and YA imprints, as well as a line giving new authors an opportunity to prove themselves in the publishing world with an ebook deal and option for print.

From creature feature (Meg: Hell’s Aquarium and Antarktos Rising), to action/adventure (Grim Reaper: End of Days and Silver) to political (The President’s Henchman), to military (Threat series), to techno-thrillers (Eurostorm and Wired Kingdom) and young adult (The Chronicles of Anaedor: The Prophecies), we have a great variety of stories to choose from if you are into non-stop thrill-rides. In any sense of the word, we are very lucky to have the authors on our roster that we do for a company that is not yet three years old.

At this time, submissions are not open, but check back in weekly (or sign up) at ThrillerBlog for updates on submissions, book news, and new design releases. You can find all the details of what we look for in a book on our Submissions page. Check it out so when the time comes (and if you are interested) you are good to go.

Just a quick statement on promotion, as that is a big part of my job. I love promoting our authors, as well as friends of the Variance family, through all of the social marketing channels like Facebook, Twitter and our blog. BUT, it is imperative that as authors you do not rely on publisher-promotion alone. If there is nothing more that I can impart on you today it is that people grasp to the person behind the book - not the people putting it out there. People want to build a relationship and feel a special connection with an author in a way like they helped this author succeed because they know them, promoted them, and were there to help them grow in these days of instant-online-gratification. Don’t take this as something Misery-like either (well, most of the time anyway), this is today’s society feeling connected to one another in this spiderweb we call virtual advancement. Bringing this subject up isn’t to say that you should only promote or even spend the majority of the day doing so, because you putting out more books is so very important to your footprint in the industry and growth in your career, but be sure to connect with your fans, build new ones, and keep them up-to-date on a regular basis. Over time, you will be warmly rewarded for your work by your fans.

If you do self-promotion, what has worked for you? Book sites? Twitter vs Facebook (or both)? Have you found that your website has played a part in your success to provide people with a central location to find all of your goodness? The first five people who lend a helping hand to those looking for input and don’t know where to start will get any ebook of their choice from our Smashwords library, no strings attached.

Interview Clause and Wonderful Updates

2011-03-15T16:41:00.000-07:00

So, if you go to my 'Guest Appearance Guide,' there's a new clause on interviews:

"I have an interview clause, meaning that I can only interview published authors whose book(s) I have reviewed. I won't interview you otherwise. I'd like to stick with my three-topic interviews, and 'Novel-Specific' is the first topic."

Previously, I told anyone who'd asked to be interviewed on Triple R that I didn't allow it. I did this for two reasons in particular:

1.) I have no idea why, but this website's coding doesn't allow me to do bold and normal font. I have to sit here for hours and get everything just right or the words will reorder themselves or delete. In due time, I plan to get a new site design, since I sorta feel like this one is pretty bland.

2.) I was terrified to do interviews. I used to interview people when I was an editor for my school newspaper, and we used the same questions each time. As thus, I never felt like any interview I typed up could ever be fun.

See, this is where that picture of author J.S. Chancellor above makes sense. When she told me that my interview had the most fun and original questions she'd ever been asked, I felt a little more confident in my interviewing abilities and changed the clause. Her interview will be posted here and much advertised on April 23, 2011! ^_^

That also explains why author Michelle Davidson Argyle didn't appear on Triple R the date previously assigned - March 12, 2011. This is currently a very busy time for her and, since Cinders is number 8 on my Upcoming Book List, I offered to interview her after I've reviewed the book, when she fits the criteria. I can't wait to see what questions I think up for her as well as what her answers will be. If you've actually read and reviewed a book, interviews can be pretty fun to write.

Also, Also, April and May are already completely filled with guest appearances, but I'll save my happiness about that for another post.

General Updates

Florida Gothic Stories: I am currently on page 160 out of 225 and on my 8th short story. This is the first time I've ever reviewed a short story collection. Previously, in my Book Review Explanation, I said that I didn't review collections because I didn't know how, but I'm slowly learning. And it's not that bad! (By that, I mean my process of reviewing the short stories isn't bad and the stories aren't either). However, I'll let Suspense Magazine be the judge of that and my Triple R readers as soon as I'm given permission to post the review.
Variance Publishing: They appear next, on March 19th. They're the first guests on Triple R to offer a book giveaway contest at the end. I'm excited about that! If you want free books directly from an awesome publishing house, this should be exciting for you as well. Keep a watch on them. Speaking of book giveaway contests to look out for...
Triple R's First Big Book Giveaway Contest: The end date for my book giveaway contest is March 31st. Info will be posted at the bottom. Please participate!
Freebie Packages: Every Friday, I let Triple R readers know about things free in the writing world that I've stumbled upon while web surfing. The freebie's coming up this Friday and next Friday, courtesy of Variance Publishing and Rhemalda Publishing, will point you to lots of free things from them and their authors.

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P.S.

Do you want the opportunity to get a section of your short story/novel edited and critiqued as well as win books that you get to choose from the 52 offered? Click the link below to figure out how you can participate.

Triple R's Big Book Giveaway Contest!

Freebie Friday #7: The Gateway to Hell by Wade J. McMahan

2011-03-11T17:53:00.000-08:00

The Gateway to Hell is a short and totally free story, courtesy of author Wade McMahon, about a detective and an officer who investigate an old man who owns a shop...a shop where people, especially criminals, walk in and never come back out.

I had the pleasure of reading and commenting on the story not too long ago, and I can honestly say that I enjoyed it, in spite of how brisk it is.

Check Gateway to Hell out!

The Bone Sword by Walter Rhein

2011-03-09T17:37:00.000-08:00

Miscony is a dark world.

With murder-crazy dictators like Father Ivory and the Earl controlling the Nightshades, a scary force of soldiers, Miscony really can't be any other way. It's a world where a loving family gets punished simply because one of the children have a 'demonic ability' to heal and refused to just watch their father die, a world that does not seek compromise unless by force.

Malik is, in a sense, Miscony personified. Right from the start, he's terribly ill, a loner with dark secrets, and, in spite of his best efforts, unable to participate in a barroom brawl that sets off a series of life changing events for himself and those in Miscony. Like Malik, Miscony is in need of healing and separation from its dark secrets and neverending violence. One could say it is fate, or Lightbringer finally coming forth, that pairs those children from above with Malik.

A wagon trip that should've been their death becomes their vehicle of escape. As Malik and the children run from the corrupted leaders, they gather a force of wronged citizens more than willing to fight for what they've lost. On the other side, Malik's ruthless former Captain takes charge, and the battle to begin a new age becomes even more personal. The question is not only, "Can the people of Miscony be freed?" but also, "Can Malik face and defeat his inner demons, the very same inner demons that plague Miscony as a whole?"

By page 44, the two upcoming paragraphs with qoutation marks are exactly how I felt about 'The Bone Sword':

"Four thoughts have consistently and honestly popped up in my mind. 1.) This is violent, and I like violent, so yay! 2.) Such beautiful description and pacing! I'm enjoying this. 3.) Hm. Maybe my opinion has been tainted by reading some reviews of his book before this, but he DOES have quite a few adverbs, and the evil characters do seem to just be evil without being multifaceted, save for Malik who isn't really evil so much as...well, I can't think of the word right now. 4.) I've noticed some sentences that seem like run-ons and qoutation marks in the wrong direction, but this hardly matters to the story.

"I don't think Walter wrote this with the intention for us to analyze his characters and settings and symbolism. So far, I think 'The Bone Sword' is closest to storytelling in its purest form, and that's also a good thing. Sometimes, I just like to be told a good, fun, action-packed story and not the analysis."

I'd been enjoying the story, with its brevity and wonderful fighting scenes and clear-cut dialogue, from the get-go. However, I began to emotionally identify on page 81. I even bookmarked the page! The words, "He started running. He hadn't stopped for nearly ten years," really rang in my heart. Sure, Walter could have literally meant that Malik had never stopped running, but I saw that as meaning, 'Malik, still lost and confused, didn't know HOW to stop running from himself and his demons.' After that, I looked at Malik differently. He became more than some loner protagonist and moved into the realm of real.

Walter is a master at pacing. His short sentences, the way he shows time passing when characters are sneaking about, the way he shows the methodology behind fighting when Malik is in battle...it all leads to an entertaining tale. While I wish I could've seen more of the big battle at the end, and I was a bit confused about some things concerning Malik's former Captain (this may have been a result of me reading too fast in that silly way I always do when a book gets fun and intense and action-packed), I still smiled at the end before I closed the book.

If you want pure storytelling, lots of action, and brevity, please give 'The Bone Sword' a read!

Planned Updates

2011-03-08T15:25:00.000-08:00

What with my Facebook and Marketing series complete, I can go back to general blog posts at Triple R...at least until I do another series (however, this won't be for a while, and I'm still hoping someone will share something they'd like me to cover). Today's post will cover all the updates I'd like to make to better this site. I've been so caught up in life's general suprises and finding people to guest appear, which has mostly been successful (=D), that I haven't really sat down to think of all the ways I can improve Triple R.

Today's the day! The list is in no particular order of importance. Also, I actually have a plan for everything below.

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Every month, archive the Freebie Fridays, book reviews, and guest posts so that people can easily keep track. Just because a guest appearance wasn't active the first day I put it up doesn't mean it can't randomly become active some other day! Plus, I like to look back.
Every other month, when I finally get at least twenty subscribers, send out the newsletter. This newsletter will feature the most recent spotlights, freebies, and book reviews as well as an article about writing and important links. I'm big on important links!
Create a series box for the righthand column so people can easily access the episodes of my series'.
Get a better hold of my social networking life so, when I try to spread the word about people guest appearing, I won't feel so guilty if no one else comments but me and the guest. Triple R needs more scope, but I know it's one step at a time. I haven't even had this site for a half year yet.

You have any ideas for how I can improve Triple R? I'm open-minded to anything reasonable.

Guest Post: Rhemalda and E-books

2011-03-05T07:59:00.000-08:00

House Name: Rhemalda Publishing
Manager(s): Rhett Hoffmeister, President and Publisher and Emmaline Hoffmeister, Vice President
Date Established: January 1, 2010
Accepting or Not Accepting: Accepting

Genre(s): All Genres
Type (small, middle, e-book, large): Small/E-book
Contact Info: Rhemalda Publishing, P.O. Box 2912, Wenatchee WA 98807/ customer_service@rhemalda.com / http://www.rhemalda.com

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The eBook Schism

Not many people realize that the ebook has been around a lot longer than Apple, Sony, Amazon and Barnes and Noble have made it popular. In the early 1970's Project Gutenberg created a prototype of a general-purpose portable personal computer that was capable of storing an electronic version of a book. Back in the early days the only books that were generally formatted for these devices were technical manuals. The hardest part about these ebooks was getting them on and off of your computer. The Internet was not around to make file transfers easy and a floppy disk did not hold nearly the amount of information that the high capacity usb thumb drives of today.

eBooks really emerged with Adobe's creation of .pdf's, programmers creation of open source platforms and libraries beginning to distribute them in the late 1990's. As of last year (2010) approximately 66% of libraries offered ebook lending.

Amazon reported in 2010 that they sold 140 ebooks for every 100 hardcover books but sales still lagged behind paperback books. Recently however, Amazon reported that they began 2011 with ebook sales surpassing paperback sales.

There are over 2 million free ebooks and just as many for sale from publishers all around the web. The evolution of the ebook the past 40 years has created a schism in the publishing world. A schism that not all publishers know which side they prefer to be on. Certainly the creation and distribution of the ebook is less expensive, however it is still not without costs. Costs that include distribution discounts that equal those of the printed word. In addition the conversion from the beautifully laid out formatting and design that was labored and thought over is lost and often during conversion formatting errors occur.

All of these things combined generate hesitation. Yet the tables turn when a publisher can reduce the cost of a book from a printed version in the $14 to $16 range to the $9 and still generate a profit. Publisher's can expand where they previously thought that they would remain constant or even reduce the number of books published.

Certainly ebooks have changed the tides within the ocean of the publishing world.

Rhemalda Publishing embraces ebooks and ensures that all of our books are converted using the highest standards of content conversion. We want to provide enthralling books to all readers no matter the platform that they prefer reading them in.

I would say considering the ebook schism, that Rhemalda has a foot firmly planted on both sides and that we will continue to balance the printed and electronic word.

--
Emmaline Hoffmeister
Vice President, Rhemalda Publishing

Freebie Friday #6: Son of Ereubus by J.S. Chancellor

2011-03-04T14:40:00.000-08:00

I'm not a stranger to Son of Ereubus or J.S. Chancellor. Not only have I read and reviewed the book, but I regularly read her blog. Sometimes, we have fun and informative conversations that are always in the back of my head, coming to the forefront when I'm thinking about writing. I think she's an inspirational person who is helping lots of people on her way to the top. Today I am also honored to have Son of Ereubus as today's Freebie Friday! Here, from her site, is what she had to say:

"The time has finally arrived!

Here is the link for the free copy of Son of Ereubus (it will go live shortly. If it isn’t yet, don’t panic, just check back in a little while). Once you reach the author page, there is a widget with sliders and you should see the different E-versions of the book available for download on the Son of Ereubus page. Again, there are no strings attached or special things you have to do—no lists to sign up for, nothing. Just free, pure and simple.

But, may I ask something of you?

No, I’m not going to ask you to purchase anything. What I would love, in exchange for giving you a free ebook, is that you tell just two people about it. That’s all. Just tweet it, Facebook it, blog it, whatever you do when you want to tell someone… If you have a reader bud, then email then, text them, or message them. Just tell two people about the book and where they can get it. I would deeply appreciate it!

Thank you! I hope you enjoy the book! I hope you like it enough to fall in love with the trilogy as a whole. I hope you’ll give it a good review if you do. If you have any questions, you can reach me at my email address jschancellor@gmail.com. I try to answer all emails within a two or three day frame and I’m ALWAYS up for book talk, so please don’t hesitate to send me a line.

A HUGE ‘thanks’ goes to Neil Gaiman who originally gave me this idea: Hope you have a great time on your trip—be safe!

Also, once you’re done reading book one, you can find Book Two: Blood of Adoria, available for pre-order on the same page as the free download at Rhemalda (it will show up for preorder on B&N and Amazon later in the month of March). Here is the cover! Release date is November 1st, 2011"

Get your FREE copy here!

Facebook and Marketing: Episode 4 - Seven Ways To Network

2011-03-01T17:25:00.000-08:00

Article by Tiffany T. Cole

Welcome to the 4th and most likely last episode of my Facebook and Marketing series! If you need a basic understanding of FB before learning how to cater to FB friends, please go back to Episode 1. For my basic overview of marketing, where I share the benefits of getting sell, sell, sell out of your mind, go to Episode 2. The previous episode points out the three most efficient ways, from my experience, of growing your FB friend list.

Facebook is marketed as a social networking site, and so I believe that an important aspect of networking is catering to those involved and hoping for respect in return. First, though, I feel it's necessary to explain what I mean by 'cater.' I don't mean lie about compliments and pretend to be a bottle of stepford-smiler-sunshine just to get on their good side. I don't mean insincerely spam their website or blog or Facebook page just to appear like you're interested. This all goes back to how I feel about genuine networking.

So, what exactly do I mean? Read on.

A while ago, in an effort to talk to more of my FB friends, I created a simple networking plan. Every week, I planned to randomly choose two writers/artists/bloggers/musicians/etc and focus on them and what they're passionate about in the following ways:

Send a message.
Reply to a couple of their stats, definitely if there are recent ones inviting conversation.
Visit and comment on sites.
Participate in something they've started or are passionate about.
Comment on a number of blog posts.
Spread the word about them and their passions.
Update this cycle, whether weeks or months later.

Notice how there are seven ways, the exact same number of days in a week? That has a purpose. I think you look more devoted when you at least spend a week on a person, instead of spontaneously doing all seven tasks in one or two days. Even though most of the seven are explanatory, I'll go into detail below.

1.) Send A Message

I like sending a message first. It's a good way to establish that you want to get a little closer. However, the content of the message is very important. I always say 'hello' and then follow by wishing them luck on some of their endeavors, proving that I actually looked into what makes them tick beforehand. If I can, I share some thoughts about what something of theirs reminded me of. Afterward, I just hope the conversation that follows is natural, and it usually is. If it isn't, though, that doesn't mean the person is a lost cause. You're only on day 1, after all.

2.) Reply To Stats

Now, I try to be careful with stats. Having just messaged the person out of the blue the day before, I'd hate to scare said person away by seeming like a terrible mix between a spammer and a stalker, meaning that it would look pretty odd to start replying to more than three stats on their wall. First, I always stay away from the ones that seem too personal or moody, like the person either posted it to get something off their shoulder or share with loved ones. Second, I always look for any recent stats already active in conversation because it's a bit easier to jump in. Third, unless the most recent stat is too personal, I post on that. I never reply on any stats too far down the wall.

3.) Visit/Comment On Sites

This is excluding blogs, only since blogs get noticed in number five. Not all writers may have or contribute to a website, but a lot of them do, and I know just how much work and time goes into a website (having been in the business of website management for five years). I think its important to take notice of all this work. If there's nowhere on the site to comment, message the person on FB and tell them about things you liked or want to help with.

4.) Participate

By participate in something they've started or are passionate about, I don't mean just sign up and tell them you signed up and never follow through. No, I mean PARTICIPATE. I mean, invest some of your time and energy and let them see how sincere you are. Also, it could be good for you, to experience something new.

5.) Comment On Blog Posts

This, like participation, actually takes time and energy. I always read at least one page of blog posts and comment on the majority of them. Why don't I comment on all of them? Well, I don't have a problem with that if I can come up with a good reply for all of them. I want to prove that I read the blog post. I want to share what I got from it, and if I'm unable to share something for a certain blog post, I won't comment.

6.) Spread The Word

This takes a little time, but it's the easiest for me to do. I advertise their site/product on Twitter, Facebook, Stumble, and Digg. If I can reasonably do so, I bring up what I'm trying to spread in conversations with others.

7.) Update This Cycle

Whether every couple of months or every couple of weeks, I think it's important to repeat steps 1-7 for said person, even if you've moved on to another person.

And that's all, folks! Any ideas for another series?

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P.S.

Triple R's Big Book Giveaway Contest!

Thoughts on 'Drawn in Blood' by Andrea Kane

2011-02-23T20:13:00.000-08:00

It took me much longer to read Drawn in Blood than it usually takes me to read a 400-page book, but that had nothing to do with the book itself. Life took me for a wild ride, and I did say in my Book Review Explanation how this may effect the reviews.

In all, I liked the book. I gave it a 4 out of 5 in the spur of the moment, but, considering all that I liked about the book, I'm thinking about giving it a 5 out of 5. Recently, definitely since Jamie DeBree posted about characterization when she guest appeared, I've been thinking alot about the balance between characterization and plot in contemporary fiction, definitely with thrillers such as this one. I feel like Andrea Kane does a marvelous job balancing the romance between Sloane Burbank and Derek Parker with the fast action cornering in on them. The end is much like a symphony of one unraveling event after another, and I also like how this is handled. I mean, the whole story is pretty much like that, but it all comes together the way it should in a good mystey/thriller book by the end.

Of course, I think you should pick it up!

Facebook and Marketing: Episode 3 - Growing The List

2011-02-22T16:01:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the third episode of my Facebook (FB) and marketing series! If you need a basic understanding of FB before learning how to market with it, please go back to Episode 1: The Basics. For my basic overview of marketing/networking, where I aim to get sell, sell, sell out of your mind, go to Episode 2: Genuine Networking.

This is part 2 of episode 2. It's more specific, in that this focuses on the most important part of networking - people. In my opinion, it's extremely important to cater to your FB friends (also, cater should NOT become synonymous with worship). Episode 4, which will be up March 1st, will specifically cover catering to friends.

Before I go into methods of showing an FB friend respect in Episode 4, I'd first like to talk about growing your friend list. I'd merge the two episodes, but I don't want this to be too long. Below is what I've found to be most effective. I'm always open to suggestions, though.

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1.) People You May Know

In the right hand column, especially when you're viewing the Newsfeed (I explain this in episode 1), there should be a section that looks exactly like the example pic to the left. This is how I get most of my friends. In that box, FB often brings up people who share similar interests and friends with you, as well as people who live near you or work at the same place or go to your school or whatever. These days, for me, authors and reviewers often come up in that box, and I have a spontaneous habit of quickly adding them. Because I keep spontaneously adding those types, FB keeps providing me with those types. The same should happen for you.

2.) People Who've Commented

I do a lot of commenting on other people's stats. In fact, I don't stat half as much as I comment. When you comment on a friend's stats, that person is prone to have many other friends that aren't your friends. Those other friends most likely wouldn't become apparent to you unless they....

Let's not make this vague and unclear. ^_^ Here's a scenario: Say Sarah, your FB friend, puts up a stat asking for writing advice on a matter that's been bothering her for a while. You comment on Sarah's stat, but so do many other people. You have no idea who some of those other people are, but this shouldn't send you into a frenzy to randomly send them all friend requests. Larry, one of the people who also commented on Sarah's stat, liked your input and replied in support of what you've said. You reply to his reply. There's something of a conversation going!

When this happens, I think it makes sense to go on ahead and friend that person. However, I've also friended people through comments simply because I admired what they had to say, but I always make sure to send a message with the request saying this.

3.) Friend Suggestions

I don't do this often, but I do know how valuable it could be. Recently, my best friend wanted to connect with more authors because she's steadily growing more serious about her writing career. She asked me to suggest to her the list of authors and serious writers that I frequently talk to and think could be of great help to her.

It's a good idea to ask someone you're already close to, someone who already understands most of what you need and want, if they can suggest friends for you. Suggesting friends is a FB feature that should be at the bottom of a profile, in blue letters in the left hand column underneath all the pics of friends and family, as shown in the example pic to the left. You won't be able to see it at the bottom of YOUR profile, though, because only other people can suggest friends to you (which makes sense.).

Stay tuned for episode 4!

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P.S.

Triple R's Big Book Giveaway Contest!

Guest Post: Jamie DeBree and Characterization

2011-02-19T07:58:00.000-08:00

What a Character...

Thank you for having me today, Tiffany – it's a pleasure to be part of your opening line-up. Thanks also to Molly Campbell, who was interested in how to create believable characters.

No matter what the story or genre, the characters are the heart of any book for me. If the characters aren't believable for the reader, the story simply doesn't work. This raises the question – what makes a character believable?

Part of what makes us human is the ability to reason and feel, and that's what I think readers connect with when they identify with a character. A believable character must have strong emotions, internal conflicts, and ultimately grow throughout the story in some way. In order for there to be growth, there must be a point at which that growth starts – some sort of internal conflict that makes life uncomfortable for the character, just as it happens in our own lives.

When I'm creating a character, I start by placing a character template into a scene. The character is basically "cardboard" at that point – I don't know much about him/her except superficial things like physical looks, general occupation, and gender, along with a general personality (based on job, looks & gender). In my scene, something happens. Something that requires reasoning, curiosity, and emotion to deal with. I take the basic, superficial things I know about that character, and then have them react to the scene in a way that would be logical given what little I know about them. That reaction is what brings my characters to life, and starts the story. It's the catalyst for growth that shakes them out of their comfort zone and also forms the basis for a story plot.

Believable characters are flawed – they don't always make the right decisions, and they don't even always make the logical choice. Just as we are, they're often driven by emotion, even when that emotion doesn't necessarily make sense. I try to tap into the deepest insecurities my characters possess, and force them to confront, and ultimately deal with those fears – the same fears you and I might deal with in our own lives. In order to create believable characters, you have to know people, and study the underlying motivations for their actions.

Naturally, readers won't personally connect with every character. When a character has a major flaw or insecurity that we've never dealt with or that we perceive as "weak", it's hard to identify with them or what they're going through. But I think if readers feel any sort of strong emotion toward a character – whether it's love or hate, the character was still believable, still "human" enough on the page to be real to the reader, which is all any writer can strive for, in my opinion.

Author Info/Important Links

A full-time webmistress by day, Jamie DeBree writes steamy, action-packed romantic suspense late into the night. She resides in Billings, MT with her husband and two over-sized lap dogs.

http://www.jamiedebree.com/

http://varietypages.jamiedebree.com/

http://bookbiz.jamiedebree.com/

http://www.brazensnakebooks.com/Romantic_Suspense.html

http://www.facebook.com/NovelistJamieDeBree

Freebie Friday #5: Soul Thief by Mark Edward Hall

2011-02-18T15:47:00.000-08:00

From his site, where this offer is featured...

"Hi, all. I am posting this free e-serial novel as a thank you to all my loyal friends and readers who don’t have the patience to wait for my books to come out via the traditional route.

For the most part the novel is complete, but I will be tweaking, adding, subtracting as I go along. And there are parts that will be written on the fly. It’s a challenge, but I’m looking forward to it.

Also, those who follow along and comment will receive a free signed copy of the novel when it is published.

For those who are new to Soul Thief, here is a synopsis of the novel:
Doug McArthur, hit in the face by a young friend at the age of seven, is suddenly able to see a supernatural creature who calls himself Collector. His life is turned upside down when he realizes that it’s not just the creature he sees, but the atrocities it commits.

Since marrying Annie his visions have been quiet and Doug is grateful. Now Annie is pregnant with their first child and their world is in the process of coming apart, beginning with the destruction of their home and forcing them to run for their lives, back into the world of Annie’s childhood, the De Roché dynasty, to a murdered mother and a cruel and enigmatic father.

Doug, who hates Annie’s father, is nearly insane with grief over their plight, but he soon finds that De Roché is the least of his worries when in the midst of Annie’s mother’s funeral he is given a strange artifact by a dying priest along with a dire warning. He must leave Annie and his unborn child and begin a sojourn into the darkest regions of human existence.

In his attempt to save his wife and unborn child Doug finds that there is much more at stake than the lives of two human beings, perhaps the very salvation of the human soul."

Read Soul Theif!

Facebook and Marketing: Episode 2 - Genuine Networking

2011-02-15T17:51:00.000-08:00

Welcome to episode 2 of my Facebook and Marketing series! If you haven't read episode 1 yet, please do so. However, episode 1 is not necessary for you to understand this episode unless you know little to nothing about Facebook and won't understand certain terminology.

So, are you confused about what a Newsfeed and status box is? If so, to episode 1 you should go!

This time I'll cover these four points:

How I started and why it helped.
Getting 'sell, sell, sell' out of your mind.
Quality over quantity (in terms of FB friends), but quantity helps.
Why being genuine counts!

Episode 3, which will be appropriately called Quality Over Quantity...But Quantity Helps, will go into more detail about ways to show utmost respect for your FB friends and, in turn, earn more respect for yourself.

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If you joined Facebook with a product in mind (for us authors, that's usually our books, websites, and ourselves), sell, sell, sell probably feuled your decision to constantly post status updates only about your product(s), talk to FB friends about nothing but your product(s), and randomly advertise your product(s) on people's walls (I don't think I mention what a wall is in episode 1, but it's like a personal Newsfeed that everyone has once you click on their name. Of course, you have one too if you have an FB account).

As someone who will be majoring in Business Marketing and someone who loves studying and taking part in networking, I do NOT support this insensitive, simple method of advertising. I think it's too 'in your face', and it makes the person behind the act seem more like a spammer than an actual human being who writes and laughs and cries and dreams. Generally, people avoid spammers, but they connect with actual humans in ways both significant and insignificant.

This whole article will, in turn, support getting sell, sell, sell out of your mind and thinking about genuine networking.

When my friends started ditching Myspace for Facebook, I wasn't quick to switch over. Hell, it took me forever just to jump on the Myspace bandwagon! I was one of those people who'd rather be left alone to read and write. If I wanted social reassurance, I'd call someone or leave the house. Plus, I had an automatic tendency to scoff at anything popular.

I joined Facebook solely because an old close friend of mine said the site would be a good way for me to reconnect with other old friends I really missed. At that time, I had no idea Facebook could be used for marketing and networking. Not only was I unfamiliar with those terms, but I was yet to be familiar with the idea that I actually needed to do any of those things as an aspiring author and freelance writer.

Guess what? It was a good thing, that I joined without the intention to sell myself and my writing, because I could focus on spending the first couple of months on FB growing my friend list and tightening relationships with genuine conversation where writing sometimes failed to come up.

Then, when I started making my profile information about writing and started statting more and more about my product(s), people already saw me as a human being. I also made sure to switch it up. Sure, I talk more about writing, but I also do plenty of talking about my life too.

This is where quality over quantity comes up. Some people are in a constant race to get as many friends as possible, to reach that 5,000 friends limit and have to set up a page (a concept I touch on in episode 1).
I like that I'm currently at 746 friends, and that I'll probably have 750 in a matter of days.

However, I do know those friends are pointless unless I talk and connect with all of them. I don't. Of those 700+, I can only think of about 20 off the bat that I regularly talk to. Those 20 friends are the quality because they support me as much as I support them; those 700+ friends are just the quantity. It's nice I can reach out to all of them with the knowledge they're there and could become potential supporters, which is why quantity doesn't hurt, but they're generally nothing more than spectators right now.

Moderation, conversations, commenting...this is all very important to your success with selling on FB. This will LEAD to people supporting you and what you're about because they'll have an invested interest. Some of them will actually care!

It's not hard to be genuine when talking to your FB friends. If you don't already know how, learn to replace thoughts of you and your products with thoughts of them and THEIR products (I'll go into more detail about this in the next episode). Even when talking to people who aren't selling anything at all, dedicate yourself to what matters to them. If you dedicate yourself to their stuff, while making sure to slyly and coincidently find ways to mention your products, the chance of them wanting to check you out grows, grows, and grows.

And your product sells, sells, sells.

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P.S.

Triple R's Big Book Giveaway Contest!

Guest Post: Allan Leverone and Short Story Writing

2011-02-12T08:04:00.000-08:00

Short Stories are Harder to Write than Novels

http://allanleverone.com/
http://allanleverone.blogspot.com/
http://allanleverone.com/books.php
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B004MMEDU0 {Link to Final Vector, his most recent book}
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=logo#!/Allan.Leverone?sk=info
http://allanleverone.com/events.php

Freebie Friday #4: David Alderman's Great Tools for Self-Published Authors

2011-02-11T15:23:00.000-08:00

The guy you see to the left (isn't he so handsome?) is the self-published author of The Black Earth series and the soon-to-come Expired Reality series (which I'm not yet certain will be a series, but I'm inferring). Over at his blog, A Broken Reality, he puts up interesting, helpful posts about his ventures into the writing world, definitely as a self-published author, while also offering prompts.

Usually, my Freebie Friday posts only correspond to free magazines or books or short stories, but, after reading his post on free tools for self-published authors, I had a revelation. I can mix it up some! I can feature free publications, but I can also feature free materials that can help in the writing world. I figured David's post would be a great way to launch this new change. Here's the description he gives of the blog post:

"In the past, I've posted here and there about the tools I use for my web design, marketing and audio projects and figured I'd bring them all together in one reference for others wanting to check them out. This is by no means a full list of all that is out there, just a list of what I've had success with. Some are free, some cost a minimal amount of dough. Overall, I know most self-published/indie authors are on a tight budget anyway, making it difficult to outsource some of the different jobs one has to do, so these tools will definitely come in handy if you're a do-it-yourselfer like me."

Great Tools for Self-Published Authors

Facebook and Marketing: Episode 1 - The Basics

2011-02-08T19:39:00.000-08:00

Facebook is a social networking site that was created by Mark Zuckerberg in February 2004. Since then, it has been a site constantly growing in popularity and riches, making it the perfect place for both businesses and people to connect with billions. Now, more than ever, being a writer (at least one who aims to sell) is as much about marketing as it is about writing. Joining Facebook and Twitter, though I still haven't jumped on the Twitter bandwagon...yet, has practically become a must, but it's hard to approach Facebook when you go in with very little information and just the mindset you need to sell, sell, sell.

I'm not a Facebook (FB), marketing, or writing guru, nor will I pretend to be, but I do at least have experience with each (Here's my Facebook profile). So I've decided to create a Facebook series on marketing. There will be 3-4 episodes. This episode will cover the basics of using the site. Below is what will be covered:

How to sign up
Utilizing the News Feed
How to use Networked Blogs
How to set up and use Events.
How to set up and use Groups.
How to set up and use a Page.

Episode 2 will cover more of the marketing/networking aspect of FB. It will be appropriately called "Genuine Networking" and will be featured on Triple R next Tuesday, February 15th.

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Signing Up

#1: After you sign-up and become a member of Facebook, this is how you will log-in thereafter. Just to go to http://www.facebook.com/

#2: This is the sign up form to become a member of FB. As you can see, it's free and easy. After you fill out the form, you should check your e-mail, get your account info, and log-in. Afterward, if you want, you can spend a considerable amount of time filling out your profile. Be careful if you're one of those people concerned with privacy! Facebook is known for its personal intrusiveness. Naturally, allowing yourself the opportunity to connect with so many can put you out there. I know the privacy argument goes much deeper than that, but I don't want to lose focus so quick in the episode. ^_^

#3: If you'd like to create a more professional business, book, or author page, click the blue link below the form to skip right to doing that. Way at the end of this episode, you'll find a how-to video by the extraordinary Joanna on creating your page. You should watch that before you dive in to page making.

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The News Feed

#1: When you put words in the status box and press 'share,' you are announcing your thoughts to the News Feed and your profile for anyone to read. Even if you regret a stat you put up and delete it, that doesn't mean dozens of people haven't already read the stat, even if they didn't comment. Basically, try to be constantly aware that posting something through the status box is equivalent to talking to a large group of people you may not totally trust. A stat update is great for discussion via the comments and announcing/advertising something. Right above the question, "What's on your mind?" are 4 words: status, photo, link, video. By default, you are clicked on status. If you want to attach either one to the bottom of your stat, click on the option, put in the info, and attach. You should click back on the 'status' button first to see how it will appear before you press 'share.'

#3: This is the News Feed. The moment you press 'share,' your status will join the many other status's and updates people who are your FB friends create. The snapshot above only shows the top of the News Feed. If you were to scroll down, you'd find loads of 'news.' The more friends you have, the longer the feed.

#4: This section of FB is for your personal updates in regards to new personal messages, new events you've been invited to, and new friend requests. I think it's important to quickly follow-up on any new things here, to let people know that you are quick and active.

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Networked Blogs

If you scroll all the way down to the bottom of Triple R, there are two options for those who'd like to keep up with and support my blog - become a Google follower and/or a Facebook follower through Networked Blogs. The pic to the right is exactly what it looks like, at least without enough followers to completely fill the box. It will show, in a box, the followers with a button at the bottom for people who'd like to follow. At the very least, it looks good to have one of these boxes on your site full of friends. So, how do you get the code? Here are my steps:

1.) Go to the search box and type in 'Networked Blogs.' An app should come up (it'll say app underneath). Click that app, which should be highlighted in blue.

2.) There should be a gray button under the blue words 'syndication' and 'help' to the right of the page that says 'register a blog.' Click there.

3.) Fill out the 'register a new blog' form. It's as simple and free as FB's sign-up form. Make sure you have a concise, informative description, or at least something that is fun and memorable! Press 'next' when you're done.

4.) Answer 'yes' or 'no' to whether or not you're the author/creator. However, my step-by-step guide only covers what follows when you click 'yes.'

5.) There are two options to verify that you own the site you registered: Ask friends or use widget. You want to use the widget because this is how you'll get the code for the box! Click that option. Don't be discouraged by the 'technical skills.' It's really just copying and pasting or clicking the corresponding blue link.

6.) They'll let you choose either the widget or the badge. Click install widget.

7.) The page should refresh with the numbers 2, 3, and 4 below. If there's a special place you'd like to put the code on your site (meaning not just in the standard right or left column) or you have a website instead of a blog, copy the code, go to your site, and paste the code in the 'coding area.' For people who aren't web savvy at all, do not place this code in a post! If you have a blog, go to number 3 and click whichever blue link applies to your site (Keep the Facebook page open while you work on your site.)

8.) Once that has all been sorted out, and the widget is clearly on your site, click 'verify widget' on the FB page.

9.) If the verification is successful, press 'next' (there will be a green highlight).

After that, you can set up syndication and look at/alter your blog's profile on the Networked Blogs page. What's more important, though, is that you now have the widget!

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Creating Events

An event on FB has the same function as an event in reality - a way to gather people for something, anything, by means of invitation or public announcements. Events can gather people for a cause, for an event at an actual place, for an event on a site, etc.. The pic I show is the event I started for Triple R's Big Book Giveaway Contest. This is how your event will look when you finish creating it. Now to explain how:

1.) There are multiple ways to start an event, but it's better and more thorough, in my opinion, to click 'events' under your name and profile pic in the left hand column. The event page should replace the 'News Feed' space and, at the top right, will be the grey button that says 'create an event.' Click it.

2.) A form should come up. It's simple and up to you at this point. Just fill in the info. If the 'where' is a website or no 'where' at all, ignore the 'add street address' link. Make sure the info you put in 'More Info?' really describes your event. It will be what makes people click 'yes, no, or maybe.'

3.) When you're done, click 'create event.' This should instantly take you to your event page. The first moment you complete the form, the page will be pretty empty and bleh. Your event page may start to look more like the pic I provided as an example, a recent event I've started, when you invite guests, tell people about it, and garner some interest.

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Creating Groups

A group, like with an event, is true to its name and the exact same thing it is in real life. Gather people for a common goal, thought, place, desire, solution, etc. A group is also rather easy to create. It's maintaining it that's the real effort.

1.) Under your profile pic, in the left hand column, you should see the words 'create group.' If you can't find it, for some reason, look at my example pic above. In blue, in the left hand column, 'Triple R: Read...' is highlighted in blue. Two options underneath that is 'create group.' It should be the same way with you (Well, not the same, but at least you know for sure where to look.) Anyway, click it.

2.) A 'Create Group' box should come up in the middle of the screen. Create the name. If you want particular members to join, and I think they'll let you choose at least 20 off the bat, go to the members box and start putting in people's names. Just like with the search box, you only have to put in the first letter before a list of names come up.

3.) Verify what type of privacy you want. There are three options: open (members/content public); closed (members public/content private); Secret (everything private).

4.) Click 'create' when you've sorted it all out. When it's created, and you click okay, you'll instantly be redirected to your group page. Thereafter, make changes accordingly. Invite more people. Click 'edit group' in the upper right corner and add a group pic and description. Start discussions and participate in them all!

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Creating Pages

While I'm familiar with FB pages, and I certainly plan to create an author page if I ever get more than 5000 FB friends (currently at 700+) and a book page when Savior of the Damned is published, I can't exactly give any instructions on creating pages. In fact, I recently just learned how to create one because of Joanna's excellent video below. She'll explain it all!

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P.S.

Triple R's Big Book Giveaway Contest!