Cup of Hot

Confessions of Intimidation

2012-01-20T08:42:00.013-05:00

I don't consider myself to be a newbie to this publishing thing. I've been around the block long enough that I've gone from being the youngest member of my writer group to one of the ones that's been there the longest. To put it in perspective, my college-age daughter was in diapers when I started writing.

So, this would beg the question... Why in the world would I let one editor/agent discourage me from writing a story I truly want to write?

I've sat on this story for nearly a year. I've stewed and hemmed, and fussed and fumed. And yet, I never went any further on the story that I was once so passionate about. Last year, before the beginning of the New England RWA Conference, those of us who were signed up for an agent/editor meeting were asked to send out 10 pages in advance. This was so that the editors/agents could have a chance to read through the material and determine whether the submission in question was something they were interested in reading. In theory, this was a great idea. But only if the editor/agent liked the submission. In my case, she found it boring and she used the word "lazy" in describing the method in which I had used to parlay some of the initial information.

Lazy.

Not exactly the word any writer wants to hear. Especially, when they were trying to write a book that they considered to be outside their comfort zone. Of course, I smiled and thanked her and then turned and walked away from the table with minutes to spare. But something of myself got left behind at that table. Some of my self-confidence. This is an edgy field, filled with competition, a lot of criticism and a good dose of maternal optimism when it comes to our work. We all want "our baby" to be the best, to have someone find it who will respect it and understand it and see why we feel it's the most beautiful, original baby in the world.

But sometimes, our stories just aren't beautiful, original babies...

I haven't written a thing on the book since then. I haven't even opened the file. It has crossed my mind a few times, only to be pushed to the back burner in favor of more marketable projects. But lately, I've come to the conclusion that while the editor/agent's criticism was harsh and unfavorable... so was my response. This was something a quitter would do, giving up on something they believe in just to conform to the party line. My writing wasn't really lazy, but I was a quitter. And while I wanted to blame the lack of progress on the project on the editor/agent, I knew that to be truthful I would need to look at myself first. I let her intimidate me into conforming. I gave up. Not a pretty diagnosis, but recognition is the first step in changing the outcome. Working on the book again would be the next step and taking it in the direction I originally wanted it to go.

I've always detested people who place blame for their problems on others. More often than not I am the first to admit when I've done something wrong (much to the amazement of my day job boss). So why should I blame this editor/agent for my lack of initiative? I can't. If I give up, she wins. If I continue, I can't fail. Either way, I write the book I want to tell.

Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children

2012-01-17T06:06:00.023-05:00

First, let me say that I haven't read this book. Yet. This is not a review. But it has definitely made it onto my TBR pile for a couple of reasons. One, the incredible cover is a complete draw and had me hooked as I walked by it at Barnes and Noble. Two, the storyline is so bizarre and the format so unique that it's destined to achieve attention. (I'll add a third... the author's name is Ransom Riggs, which is about the coolest name I've heard in quite some time.)

From Ransom Rigg's blog about the book:
A mysterious island. An abandoned orphanage. And a strange collection of very curious photographs. It all waits to be discovered in Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children, an unforgettable novel that mixes fiction and photography in a thrilling reading experience. As our story opens, a horrific family tragedy sets sixteen-year-old Jacob journeying to a remote island off the coast of Wales, where he discovers the crumbling ruins of Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children. As Jacob explores its abandoned bedrooms and hallways, it becomes clear that the children who once lived here—one of whom was his own grandfather—were more than just peculiar. They may have been dangerous. They may have been quarantined on a desolate island for good reason. And somehow—impossible though it seems—they may still be alive.

It's hard enough to write a book that stands out in a market as tough as Teen Paranormals, but this storyline is exactly what it means when burgeoning authors are given the advice to write what you know and to write the story that you want to read. After all, if you write what you like there has to be someone else out there that will enjoy it. I was intrigued enough from scanning the book in the store to come home and do the research online. Normally, I'd forget and it would be days later before I went back to Google the book.
There were a couple of other interesting facts from Mr. Riggs' blog. Since childhood, he's collected photos of people he doesn't know. I couldn't believe there was someone else out there who'd felt as I did as a child. I remember collecting photographs at yard sales and flea markets because I couldn't stand the thought that some unknown relative was being put out for sale, unnamed and un-revered. Now, after all these years, I wish I'd kept up with the collection. Perhaps, it's that fascination with the history of the nameless faces that helped me become a writer. I'm sure it had something to do with my becoming a ghost hunter. I never could stand the idea of anyone being forgotten.

There are good and mixed reviews on Amazon for this book. But I accredit this to the fact that there is no way you can put a round peg in a square hole. There is really nothing to compare it with, and as such, people are going to have a hard time with the inability to categorize it. As for me? I've always said that "non-typical" is a very good thing.

Happy Reading! I'm off to buy the book online...

10 Things I learned from Hosting a Guest on my Blog

2012-01-14T19:14:00.000-05:00

Hosting on my blog is a new experience for me. It's something that I've thought of undertaking for quite some time, but until now I wasn't sure that I could do. Thursday, I hosted friend and fellow adventurer, Diane Amos, who talked about her path to publication with her latest Five Star book, Promise Me Forever. We talked about this for awhile before attempting it.

Neither of us was sure just what was going to happen, but in the end I was happy with the results. We ended up with 27 visitors for the blog and around 10 comments (I think). This may not seem like much, but considering that this is about five times the normal visitors/daily that I get I was pretty darned happy with it. There were a few things that I worked out along the way and I'll pass these tips on to anyone who may be interested in hosting or being part of a blog tour.

1. Decide the topic to be discussed keeping it to something that will be of interest to your blog readers. If you write a research blog, keep it to research. If you write a erotic blog, keep the tone the same.

2. Decide the type of blog post. Interview or general post. Either, will work well, but keep in mind that the interview requires a ton of pre-work and back and forth between the author and then you will need to put it together into a posting that will entice the readers. If you decided to have the guest post a blog on a certain topic then you'll want to find something that will interest the majority of readers.

3. When to host the blog post. Really, any time will work, but keep in mind that you want to be available to monitor comments and help the process along by encouraging readers to the blog.

4. Which leads me to... mining your contacts. Not all the lists that you are on are going to appreciate it if you post about a guest on your blog for the day. It helps to know the rules of the individual lists and be sure to follow them so that you don't offend any potential readers. If you intend to do this often then keep a list handy.

5. Do as much of it ahead of time as you can. I copied the post into my blog poster and added pictures that I gathered from the author's site. I also added links for all the ways that they could be connected to their readers, either through Facebook, Twitter, etc. And finally, I added links to all the available books the author had available and made sure the links worked. Once this was done I set the blog to post at a reasonable time on the agreed date.

6. Make sure your blog is ready to host. I found this out through trial and error, but one of the biggest things that I realized to late was that my "follow my blog" app was too low on the page. Make it easy for the readers to connect with you and your blog. Give them the Facebook, Twitter and other assorted links at the top. Include the "follow me" app because this means that as you post they will get the chance to see your posts

7. Network Blogs is an app that's available through Facebook. Not part of it? Sign yourself up. This allows your blog posts to show up as a status message automatically when you post. Also, they can set to follow you through the Network Blogs page.

8. Ditto for Twitter. My blog posts automatically feed to my Twitter page and give a link to my blog. Utilize all avenues for getting people to your blog.

9. Check your comments often. Unless you are set for un-moderated messages you are going to have to approve all the messages that post to your blog. Do this often and encourage the author to check them often to comment on what is being posted. These are their potential readers.

10. Have fun with it. It's really not as scary as it would seem to undertake this type of effort. Because Diane is my friend it was a more relaxed experience (at least on my part).

I want to thank Diane for visiting the blog. She really wrote a great article that touched many people. Her books do the same thing and I wish her the best and many, many happy readers. :)

A Novel's Journey with Diane Amos

2012-01-12T08:00:00.041-05:00

Sometimes a novel starts with an idea that slowly takes root in an author's mind and eventually germinates into a concrete concept. Sometimes a novel goes from idea to a book in a short period of time. Or as is the case with my historical Promise Me Forever, released in November 2011, a novel can take years between idea, writing the book and seeing that work in print.

Back in 1998, I was talking with another author about heroes and unlikely heroines: a minister and a prostitute, a minister and a nun. Clearly, if a nun were involved, there could be no romance, but what if the heroine was disguised as a nun? Much better! I ditched the minister for an exhausted, bleary eyed cowboy in a saloon. Make that a heroine from the East with a distrust of any man with a drink in his hands, and a hero as a child, abandoned by his mother, an Easterner. Viola, the idea for my book was born.

In 1999, Promise Me Forever, won several contests including The Maggie Award of Excellence in the unpublished historical category. The book made the rounds of editors and publishers, followed by rejections, rewrites, more rejections. Meanwhile, I continued writing and eventually, got the call in 2002. I'd sold a contemporary novel, Getting Personal, to Five Star/Gale. I was now a published author!

I sold two more contemporary novels to Five Star, one contemporary to Harlequin, and two historicals to Five Star. Promise Me Forever still held a special place in my heart, but after the slew of rejections, I had serious doubts. Plus one of those rejections came directly from Five Star. Since I'd changed the title several times, and since the editor who'd turned my baby down no longer acquired for this line, I decided to resubmit. This time, Five Star bought my novel. Finally, my first historical had found a home.

Though I believed strongly in this novel, I still held my breath for the reviews. This book received a good review from Publishers Weekly, a starred review from Booklist, and a glowing review from USA Today. Finally, my novel had seen the light of day. Finally, I wasn't the only one who liked this book. Finally, my novel was out there for readers.

If there's a moral to this story, it's to never give up. And if a publisher has already rejected a novel, don't let that stop you from resubmitting. A new title and a new editor could make a huge difference between a rejection and a sale.

I've recently acquired the rights back from my first few novels. They are available on Amazon as e-books. Please check them out along with my website at http://www.dianeamos.com/
To tell you a little about Promise Me Forever, I've included the Booklist review below:

STARRED Advanced Review
Promise Me Forever. Amos, Diane (Author) Nov 2011.

To escape an abusive stepfather, Elizabeth O’Hara disguises herself as a nun, grabs her younger brother and sister, and heads west to Welcome, Montana, a place a newspaper article claims is so refined it has a library, church, and theater. However, when Elizabeth arrives in Welcome, she finds that it basically consists of a saloon and a store, and now the impoverished Elizabeth and her siblings have nowhere to go. Feeling somewhat responsible for the group’s predicament as author of the misleading article, Ben Ricker reluctantly offers the good sister a position as a cook at his ranch. However, Elizabeth has no idea how to cook. Granny is almost blind and has been depressed for some time. Elizabeth, her siblings, and a dog about to whelp are just what Granny needs to get her old spunk back. Even with Elizabeth’s help, life at the ranch isn’t without its problems, especially when Ben discovers that Elizabeth is not a nun. With delightful characters, humor, and some danger, Amos’ tale of a woman who lands in the wrong place yet finds a slice of heaven will tug at even the toughest heartstrings.

—Booklist, Shelley Mosley

You can find Diane at http://www.dianeamos.com/
or on Facebook @ www.Facebook.com/DianeAmos
Diane's Hardcovers
Promise Me Forever, Available through Amazon as Hardcover
Outlaw Hearts, Available through Amazon as Hardcover
Winner Takes All, Available through Amazon as Hardcover

Diane's books available in ebook format
Mixed Blessings, Available through Amazon as Harcover or ebook
Getting Personal, Available through Amazon as Paperback or ebook
The Legacy, Available through Amazon as Hardcover or ebook

Surprise! Surprise!

2012-01-11T20:30:00.000-05:00

Last week I promised a special treat and it's going to happen tomorrow with a guest appearance from one of my favorite authors and an incredible friend, Diane Amos.

Join us on Thursday at the Cup a Hot blog while she talks about her path to publication with her latest novel, Promise Me Forever, a Hardcover from Five Star that is getting some wonderful reviews!

I'd post some of the personal pics that I have of Diane, but that might make her change her mind about showing up. Besides, as a good friend and travelling companion, along with Delsora Lowe, she knows waaaayyyy toooo many incriminating things about me to add to the soup.

See you all tomorrow~

FREE PROMOTIONAL OPPORTUNITY FOR THE FIRST 200 BOOKS SUBMITTED! (Limit One Per Author)

2012-01-10T17:26:00.000-05:00

FREE PROMOTIONAL OPPORTUNITY FOR THE FIRST 200 BOOKS SUBMITTED! (Limit One Per Author)

My friend Melissa Alvarez and her husband have just started a new company designed to help out authors who are self publishing. They've got some great deals going to get the word out, so if you feel like you're roaming the vast space of publishing alone, then go on and check it out.

Ready for the New Year!

2011-12-31T19:12:00.000-05:00

I've never been a resolution person, but I do get a little giddy when Christmas is finally over and I have some time to settle down and start working on my goals for the new year. Resolutions have never symbolized a real commitment. They have always felt more like making a wish on a star, but goals? Now, goals are something that I can do. I worked within the corporate structure through most of the late 80's and early 90's and I became quite at ease with the idea of setting goals (and what a paradigm shift is.... but we won't talk about that ). Over the years, I've written posts and taught classes on goal setting, but the idea is really very basic. They must be realistic, but not simple and must be achievable and accountable. As writers, we must treat our writing as our business. The IRS would prefer that we act as a business. So, every year I start with a simple statement of operation, or my overall expectations for the year ahead. I cover three different areas: 1) What my expectation is. 2) How I plan on achieving it. and for the last part I add in something more personal. Here's my Business statement for 2012

In 2012, the expectation is that I will act in a businesslike manner with regards to my writing and consistently produce books that will not only be saleable to large and small publishing markets, but be delightful and intriguing to readers and make them want to read more.

Does this make me worthy of a Fortune 500 Company? No. But it does set the tone for my goals. These are broken down by month, and then within the month I break it down into three areas: Writing, Business and Promotion. There is also prework that needs to be done before the month's work can begin. Confused? Let me give you an example of my goals for January.

I. January - Prework: Print out SD and edit for content changes in prep for BIAW

Writing Goals:

A. Complete 500 words needed to meet goal on SD and edit

B. Query online presses that acquire Novellas.

C. Participate in BIAW

Promotion Goals:

A. Blog once weekly

B. Write 1 article

C. Put out a call for Guest Blogs

Business Goals:

A. National Dues

B. Maine RWA Dues

C. Organize Tax Papers and get info off old drive

I'm the type that is very happy with a list to check off and something tangible to show for my time. Setting these kinds of goals gives me that happy feeling.

February looks like this:

II. February - Prework: Rework list of scenes for OH and list 10 ideas for articles

Writing Goals:

A. Finish Word Count for OH, adding required pages to meet goal.

B. Edit OH

C. Write Query Letter and find 3 outlets for book

Promotion Goals:

A. Blog once a week

B. Write 1 article and find 3 outlets for other articles

C. Put out call for Guest Bloggers

Business Goals:

A. Track Daily Progress and word count

B. Update Tax information

C. Track blog and sales information in database

D. Take 1 online class

You'll see that some of the basic goals repeat, but that's because they are necessary. At the end of the year, when I start planning I usually on plan out for three to four months. This gives me some flexibility to change as I go along. Maybe I finish a goal early and start on the next. This way it can be a fluid process.

So, here are the beginning goals for 2012. Have you made yours yet? And just what is important enough to make it a goal?

Hope this helps. I wish everyone a happy, healthy and blessed New Year! May the muses, the publishers, the reviewers and the readers be kind and appreciative to your work.
Blessings!

Amazon ebook Experiment: Full Disclosure

2011-11-19T08:50:00.000-05:00

Okay, so THREE TRUTHS has been out for awhile. It's original publishing home had it under a much longer title with a not-so-nice cover that included a three color goat cat and computer generated building that did not belong in Salem. After I got the rights back I decided that since I love this story so much I would put it up on Amazon myself. self ebook pubbing was just starting and I thought... what the heck. I formatted according to the instructions, slapped a cover on it that was compiled using a picture I had taken, uploaded the whole thing and then... I waited. Nothing. One or two sales here and there. Certainly, not the same kind of results that would get me into the same category as totaltransparencyselfpublishing.wordpress.com but I had hope. Well, hope didn't get me far, and the worst part was that I didn't have a clue what to do about it. I could see others doing well, some even fantastically well. But what about me? Not so much.

It took a dinner date with some of my favorite co-authors in Rhode Island for me to tap into the Zen wisdom of selling that is Nina Pierce. By her own admission she is flabbergasted by some of the sales results she's seeing out there, but I've never met anyone who had the kind analytical ability to break down the ebook market and give it a good run for it's money. She's smart. Very smart. And she knows that this is a business, as well as a work of our heart. She gave me tips (still is... such a wonderful friend) and was patient with my questions. So, before I decided to upload Three Truths to Smashwords, Nook and any other venue I can find I decided to analyze my meager efforts.

1. My cover sucks. It's not professional and it wouldn't catch my eye so why would I expect it to catch someone elses. But a good cover costs money that I don't have. I'm still trying to free the Durango from it's non-registered state. So, I'm saving my pennies and asking for money for Christmas to go into the cover fund.

2. I had no reviews on my Amazon page. None. I know it sold at least some covers and I'd been told by friends that they liked the book, but there was nothing there to draw in anyone else. So, I did something I don't usually do. I asked for help. I asked for reviews from those that had read it. At first, I had one review and my rating in the paying ebooks category went to (11/16) 155,254 Amazon ebook Rating (or close to that) and I was elated. It was better than it had been. Still, no sales. So, while I waited for more reviews I went on to my next endeavor.

3. I redid my blog. I made it simple, eyecatching and easy to find links to follow me and buy the book. I took out the flashy background, but made the colors inviting. I looked at how other authors where successfully pulling people into their blogs and I took notes. I also redid my website to match the format of my blog.

But the next day (11/18), I still had only 1 review and my rating went to 255, ... or something such. (I really am going to start writing these numbers down.) Bummed, I found myself checking my blog constantly. And then, I got another review. Another loyal reader took the time to post and that brought me to today.

Today, my Amazon rating is 79,082 and I've sold three books in three days.

Can I pay for my daughter's education? Nope. I can't even buy a Big Mac with that. But it's still progress and progress is good. I'm hoping for more reviews and more sales and an increase in numbers. I'm rewriting Three Truths to submit to the other epub venues and that should be done soon. I'll keep you all posted. As for paying for daughter's education or getting the Durango out of unregistered prison... that may have to wait awhile. But I'm patient and curious and that should be enough to see this experiment through.

I'll keep you all posted.

Coming Soon! Innocent Darkness from Suzanne Lazear

2011-10-17T21:04:00.001-04:00

Steampunk at it's best... Suzanne Lazear has a new Steampunk YA coming in August from Flux! It can't be ordered yet, but it's high on my wishlist. If you like dark fairytales with a twist then you can stand in line with me to get your copy of Innocent Darkness, Book 1 in the Aether Chronicles! (Cause I won't be sharing my copy...)

Wish. Love. Desire. Live.

Sixteen-year-old Noli Braddock's hoyden ways land her in an abusive reform school far from home. On mid-summer's eve she wishes to be anyplace but that dreadful school. A mysterious man from the Realm of Faerie rescues her and brings her to the Otherworld, only to reveal that she must be sacrificed, otherwise, the entire Otherworld civilization will perish.

Check out Suzanne's site for the latest info on the upcoming release!

The Day That Changed Everything: 09/11

2011-09-09T13:17:00.003-04:00

I can't tell you exactly how many times I've been asked, "Where were you when you heard the news?" The answer is that I was in a parking lot of the local WalMart, having just escorted a tearful, tantrum-filled child to the car to cool down. I was in tears. I was frustrated. I was exhausted from working nights so that I could be home for kids and existing on 4-5 hours of sleep a night. And then I turned on the radio. I remember very clearly that I was turning out of the end of the parking lot and listening to the news people as they described the first plane hitting the trade center. I drove home slowly, listening to the news and my heart breaking. By the time I arrived home and rushed in to turn on the TV the second plane was hitting. In that moment I knew that things would never be the same again. I spent the day alternating between watching the minute-by-minute coverage and wanting to run to my daughter's school and pick her up, to make sure she was safe, that the horrible things going in the world hadn't touched her.

Ten years later my daughter is a whole lot farther away from me then she was that day. She's 9 hours away. When we considered colleges the rule was that she couldn't be further then it took to travel in a day. I needed to know that I could get there if I needed. There was a time when this wouldn't have been a consideration, but in light of such horrific events as 9/11, the Columbine shootings and the shootings at Virginia Tech it has become the norm to be that much more aware of what could happen. We can't live in fear. If we do then they've won. But we can be aware of how precious each day is and how our mentality has to change with the times. My mother worked as a Civilian on a Navy Base. She was aware that there was always the chance that something could happen. Part of my Father's duty in the Coast Guard was to watch for submarines or enemy boats from a cold tower near Lubec. Myself, I was a child who grew up under the shadow of the Cold War and saw the wall come down.

Ten years ago I was just finishing a book. It was a sequel to Obsidian and involved a Terrorist plot. After 9/11 there wasn't a editor or agent who wanted to touch it. The fact that the threat took place on American soil wasn't something that anyone wanted to see or read. I couldn't blame them. Despite the fact that I was passionate for the story I couldn't stomach it myself. The story is still in a drawer.

So many things changed that day. An innocence was lost along with so many, many people. For them, we are more careful, more cautious and we remember. So, like the others I'll ask... Where were you on when you heard the news?

Your Three Words

2011-09-08T09:19:00.002-04:00

Good Morning America did a cross-country call for people to share their own three words that give the message they want to share with the world. As a writer, I can tell you that just three words is a huge challenge that sometimes can't be contained a 300 page novel. Still, the idea of connecting with just three words was intriguing. But in my challenge to come up with the perfect three words I realized that at different times in my life those three words were very different.

When I was child when my cares were nothing more than how many days until summer was over or what my next big adventure would be... my words would have been something along the lines of... Life is Good.

During those horrible preteen years when I felt so impossibly invisible, my words would have been... Please See Me.

At my daughter graduated last June I reflected on my own graduation. I remember so clearly the expectations and the impossible see-saw between knowing that things would never be the same and allure of moving on to other adventures. My words would have been... Onward and Upward.

And then I met Keith and we decided to get married. In our 21 years together Keith has never held me back, never told me I could do anything and never blinked when I told him I wanted to do something so off the wall as become a writer, travel around the country, or become a ghost hunter. (okay, so he may have blinked at the ghost hunter part, but he didn't say no). Though simplistic, the words will always be... I love you.

When I had my children those three words and my world changed. It was no longer just Keith and I, but something so much bigger. We've had good times, bad times, crazy times and a few sane times. But even with what we have both accomplished in our lives we both agree that the greatest thing we ever did was have our children. For them, my words are... Love is Forever.

When my mother was dying of cancer and was preparing what she wanted done she knew she wanted four words put on her stone. She felt that these four words best described the way she had lived her life and what she wanted to pass on to the rest of us. In this case, 3 words were not enough. They are... Live, Love, Laugh and Learn.

And, when cancer took Keith's dad we went through the incredible loss all over again. I felt worse for Keith because I knew the incredible hole that tears through your heart when you lose a parent. For Arthur those three words are, ironically.... We Miss You. (I say "ironically" because he's been more present in our lives since he passed.)

This brings me to the present. I'm sure that as I go on from here my words will change along with my life. There will be new challenges, new loves, new losses and and new experiences, but for right now, if I can pass along only three words then I offer them up for everyone... Live Every Day.

So, what are your three words?

Something to Hang Your Hat On... Part 2

2011-08-10T19:48:00.001-04:00

Yesterday, I talked about a lot of things, but mostly I talked about incorporating sense of community and familiarity in your writing in order to draw the reader closer. Today, I'm thinking along the lines of emotions, experiences and revelations. What has this got to do with it? Lots. Emotions draw the reader into caring for the characters, gives them a tie to this on-paper-person that you've done your best to turn flesh-and-blood. So many times, I get caught up in the getting the movements and plot points onto the page, but really this only ever results in a flat story. It needs emotional ties in order to make the readers care what happens. These emotions, experiences and revelations (or epiphany, another good word) are the things in our life that affect us the most. They change the direction of our lives, whether we want them to or not. They are the roadblocks that force us to make a decision, good or bad, easy or hard, right or wrong.
Most would say... "but emotion is just emotion." But emotions really demand a reaction.

Example: Heroine searches for the mother that gave her up for adoption, only to find that her mother passed away before she could find her. What is her reaction? Panic? Anger? Loss?

If you've given the reader an emotional base for the character then you need to follow suit when it comes to handling difficult, life changing decisions. These are the experiences. How they handle the emotion is a part of the story and gives the character an experience to learn and lead on from.

which leads us to revelations...

Revelations are the lessons learned from the emotions and the experiences. They are the warm and fuzzy, or deep and thoughtful moments that move the inner conflict of the story forward and give some measure of satisfaction to the reader.

Okay, so emotions are the catalyst, experiences are the gauge for the reaction and revelations are the outcome of the experience. It's what happens when you find your way through the maze of emotion.

Something to Hang Your Hat On...

2011-08-09T18:35:00.001-04:00

I looked for the origination of the phrase, but instead I found the wonderful definition that it means to have faith in something. As simple as the phrase is, it says so much about grounding yourself and your writing. It gives the readers something to have faith, to believe in, to know in their hearts as a truth. Sometimes that realization and grounding comes through the characters actions and growth, some of it is as integral as the setting and the words on the page. This is part of that hard-to-define voice that writers struggle so much to achieve.

I was watching Anthony Bourdain's show on the city of New Orleans in the aftermath of Katrina. I was there, along with quite a few romance writers, not long before Katrina. I was also one of the millions who watched in horror as the city was swept aside in a tide of choas and the elements of nature. I've often said that New Orleans was a city that made me feel at home. It has a slow, seductive enchantment that draws you in the minute you get off the plane. I wasn't there for Mardi Gras. I'm not one for crowds and there are always crowds in New Orleans. But the people made me love the city with their easy kind of grace that seems to meld into their bones and eeked out of a city that's reverance for the past is as honored as their glory in the future. I didn't meet anyone there that made me feel as if I were just visiting. They were welcoming, kind, creative, bold and generous. Someday, I'm going to take my husband there so he can meet the city for himself.

But what has this got to do with hats or writing? So much. As I watched the people presevere and return to take on what was left of their city, fighting to restore the traditions, food and character, I knew that there is comfort in familiarity. By creating community that is recognizable, full-bodied and emotional, you create a community for your characters, a belief system, a tie that keeps them rooted to the story. As writers, it's sometimes our job to take a highly recognizable place and changes it slightly, without doesn't lose the connection with what people believe, or see in their minds, or even can feel with their heart. The community becomes a character, become flesh and blood and history and future. A grounding force. And a community becomes something to hang their hats on.

Hot and Heavy for another BIAW

2011-08-09T09:32:00.001-04:00

I don't know where the time went, but it's once again time for BIAW (or Book in a Week) Challenge. I'm not sure why I thought that doing this 2 weeks before my daughter leaves for college was a good idea. But I knew that if I could persevere and get at least a few pages down I'd be all the better for it.

For those of you that aren't familiar with it you can read my last post. (Since I evidently haven't posted since last month. Shame on me.) But to put it in a nutshell... every month at http://book-in-a-week.com/ they host a writing challenge. For a nominal, one-time fee you sign up and post a challenge goal for the amount of pages you expect to accomplish from Monday through Sunday. Then, everyday you check in and post your totals for the day. It's all about accountability and competitiveness, even if it's only competitive with yourself. There is also the sense of support in that you see others taking on the challenge and struggling to meet your goals. It's worth it. Some writing chapters offer their own version of this kind of challenge. My own chapter has an ongoing program. But I found that I kind of like the chance to branch out and meet others that are struggling as well.

So, anyone out there up to the challenge? BIAW will be having another one next month and I can guarantee that I'll have just as many roadblocks in the way then. But I do know that I finally found a way to stay challenged when the only competition is myself!

Happy Writing everyone!

My Adventure: Week-in-a-Book

2011-07-17T20:06:00.001-04:00

It was born completely out of my frustration at lack of writing. I'd love to say that I've been doing a ton of it, but frankly, that'd be lying. I did know going into this year it would be tough for me to get any writing done, but I truly thought I'd accomplish more than I have. And then, I happened across Book-in-a-Week.

The idea is simple. Sign up at least a week in advance (pay a small, one time fee of $3 via paypal) and give an estimated guess as to how many pages you can write from Monday to Sunday. It can be as little as 10 pages and as many as you think you're capable of writing. I lowballed my guess by saying 10 pages, but I really had wonderful intentions of blowing that guess out of the water.

On Monday, you start off with a bang and write to your hearts content. It's best to do a little pre-work, figure out where you want to go and then jump in with both feet. By Tuesday morning you need to post to BIAW's forum with your total for Monday... then Tuesday... then Wednesday... You get the picture. At the end of the week you total up and bask in your glory. Or your failure. Mine was somewhere in between. I started the week off strong, but my some medical issues had me flailing about like a fish out of water (please excuse the horrible, overused metaphor).

And just for accountability, here's my total for the week:
Monday: 4 pages
Tuesday: 3 pages
Wednesday: 4 pages
Thursday: 3 pages
Friday: Nada. Nothing. Zilch
Saturday: 1 page.
Sunday: 1 page
Total: 16 pages.

Nothing spectacular as a whole. If I can hold off the family and lock myself away I can do twice that in one day. I've done it before. But this week I just wanted to get the words on the page. And, overall, I'm happy with my 15 pages. I managed a very rough draft of my steampunk. That's pretty good. The downside, I'm struggling with the second chapter and that sucks. Usually, I don't struggle til the end of the third chapter.

Some points I learned along the way:

Give yourself a map: Nothing huge, just an outline of where you are going with each chapter, scene, whatever. There is a suggestion on the BIAW site that you write a sentence for each chapter with a general direction. I would add that you want to put what you hope to accomplish in that chapter (introduce characters, black moments, etc.).
Start a folder on your desktop and name a document for each day: Monday writing, Tuesday writing, etc. This will help you keep it separate and to be sure of how much you accomplish each day.
If you finish with 4 pages and a few lines on the next page (read: 4.25 pages), then take the four and past the .25 into a new document for the next day. (see above comment). This will give your a jumping off point for the next day.
Resist the urge to edit at all cost. This was the hard thing for me. After I finished the first day I wanted to go back and refine and define some of the points I'd made. The hardest point was to put it off until another day. It's about getting as much on the page as possible.
And last... don't beat yourself up over not making a goal. It's easy to look at what others have accomplished and belittle your own experiences, but in the end, that's them and you are you. You are accountable to only you. No one else.

So, there's another BIAW in August. Will I be among those participating? Most definitely. Do I think I can do better? Always. But it's the actual act of writing that makes the difference, not trying to hold myself up to unrealistic expectations.

Multiculturalism for Steampunk: FF: Be Not Afraid of Color!

2011-04-25T07:11:00.000-04:00

I've forwarded this along for viewing... If for no other reason then to view the wonderful works of art. But don't miss the wonderful talk about the use and SCIENCE behind the use of color in clothing. I learned a lot and it's a beautiful way to start of a Monday morning. Enjoy.

Multiculturalism for Steampunk: FF: Be Not Afraid of Color!: "Turkish caftan 19th century (Alain Turong) I know I'm due for a recipe or tutorial post, but I was feeling particularly clever tonight (..."

Writing Gothic Romance: 70's Romance to Current Trend

2011-04-23T07:29:00.000-04:00

The first romances I was allowed to buy were a series of Gothic romances by Katherine Kimbrough. Their covers all featured the heroine staring up at a castle with one light lit and all with suitably suspenseful. Ironically, they were all centered around the forbidden romance, but they were not shelved with romance in my hometown store. This didn't make any sense to me, but it eased my mother's mind since she really didn't want her 12-year-old reading romance. They certainly read like romance and contained all the trademarks of the romances that the late 70's (maybe minus the sex). Romances authors like Victoria Holt and Phyllis A. Whitney were doing so well with their ominous tales of plucky, virginal heroines who found themselves stranded on the moor in front of a castle. And, somehow, the plucky heroine always persevered to overcome her fears and face not only the ghostly figure that followed her, but gain the love of the stoic master of the house who was so haunted by his troubles that he could only find solace in the heroine's arms.
For quite some time the "Gothic" genre languished along with the bell bottoms, Holly Hobbit t-shirts and Bonney Bell lip gloss. "It's dead," everyone said. But with the success of such books as Twilight there is a whole new generation of a readers who are eating up dark, paranormal heroines with a good amount of pluckiness (and sometimes a good amount of denial) who are out there fighting the ghosts, vampires, werewolves, etc. etc. etc. and doing quite well in the market. I had a discussion on a Steampunk loop as to the huge appeal of that genre in the YA section, much more than the concentration in the adult market. I think the same can be said for Gothic.
When I read Twilight I loved the story to a point, but it took me awhile to figure out that what bothered me the most was the "I'll-follow-you-anywhere-despite-anything" attitude. I had very frank discussions about whether my daughter understood that giving up yourself completely for someone else was truly not in the best interest of anyone. But then, I remembered my love of the Kathryn Kimbrough novels. I'd lived through it. Though it probably didn't do much for choice of dating material. Still, it had instilled in me that love of a heroine willing to overcome her own adversity in order to save the world. I'm willing to bet that there are plenty of others with musty, old Gothics crowding the back of reader's shelves. And I willing to work at bringing one of my own to the front.
So, for the sake of argument or interest... here is a list that I borrowed from The Otherworld Diner on 13 Typical Ingredients of a Gothic Romance. Check it out and let me know what you think could or couldn't work in today's market.
1. The story unfolds in an eerie atmosphere, full of peril.

2. The setting is forbidding or haunted. Typical sites: A manor in the moors, an isolated ruin or a haunted castle.
3. Often, the writer’s voice is melancholy and in a minor key.
4. The writer and you as a reader expect bad things to happen to the heroine.
5. The story is shrouded in mystery, a past secret that the readers and the heroine must figure out.
6. The heroine enters the story as a victim, someone in the wrong place at the wrong time.
7. Even though the heroine is a victim, she has the potential to unearth the past secrets.
8. The heroine is resourceful and -- even if she doubts it -- she possesses an inner strength equal to the threatening situation she’s thrown into.
9. The hero, usually the master of the menacing dwelling, appears to be sinister, at least at the story’s start.
10. The hero almost always knows about the unfortunate past.
11. As the heroine uncovers the mystery, she enters into a relationship with the hero.
12. If there are two love interests in the story, one will turn out to be the villain.
13. Often the heroine is a virgin. Usually the main characters are so busy solving the mystery and surviving they have little time for intimacy.

In honor of the past.

2011-04-13T09:42:00.001-04:00

Yesterday was the 150th anniversary of the firing on Fort Sumter, an event that signaled the start of the Civil War. It took 4 years and countless lives by the end and created a new nation that was entrenched in recovering and moving forward from the chaos and turmoil of an event that has never been eclipsed on American soil, thank goodness. Most paranormal investigator have a love and respect for the past that goes hand-in-hand with our respect for the people that lived that past. You cannot go unaffected by the sheer number of casualties or the determination to continue in conflict. May we never forget our past... Lest we are doomed to repeat it.

FACT: in 1862, at the battle of Antietam, the 7th Maine Regiment went into the battle with over 170 men. After an hour there were less than in their ranks.

In a name... Titles

2011-03-28T08:24:00.000-04:00

As writers, most of us hate the prospect of putting a title to a book that we have been working on so hard for so long. It's usually a case of very easy or incredibly hard to come up with something that will encapsulate your theme and story, entice the reader to pick up the book and still be small enough to fit on a cover. There have been a lot of trends over the years with titles. Amanda Quick did an entire series with one word titles and Janet Evanovich's number books. They are all effective, and, if done right, can be the turning point between a best seller and a midlist contender.
Already I can hear the collective groan from a hoard of writers who are struggling with titles. The real catch on this is that we spend all that time coming up with a title that will catch an editor or agents eye and then the publisher will most likely change the title when the book goes into production. But that doesn't stop us from struggling with the issue.
One of the most common questions that I get with OBSIDIAN is... what is obsidian? Well, if you've read the book then you know that there is a reference to the black volcanic stone in the book, but it also became a metaphor for how deep and dark our pasts can be and how it colors our life as we continue on to adulthood. OBSIDIAN was the name that I picked for just that reason. I never dreamed that Five Star would actually want to keep it. But it worked on so many levels for the book.

THREE TRUTHS was published originally as THE THREE TRUTHS OF KATIE TALMADGE. I think that I was reading a lot of regency historicals at the time and thought that I could get away with that long a title. But I truly thought that the title would be changed by someone with much better skills at marketing the book. The publisher kept the title and I was left with a book with an incredibly long name. So much for the good will of the Title Gods. I did, however, get the chance to make this better when the book went to Kindle as an ebook. THREE TRUTHS is a much smarter and much easier to handle title and I consider it the grown up version for such a great book.

But what got me started on this topic was the title of a book being pitched to readers in Borders recent email. THE SCENT OF RAIN AND LIGHTNING. I have no idea how the book reads. It's on my to be read list, but the title completely enticed me. I loved the descriptive word play and all it invoked. Not to overlook the great cover art to go with it.
Then there are the THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO, THE GIRL WHO... (insert the latest title here). I was surprised to find that there were other books being pubbed out there with similar titles that were not written by Stieg Larsson. Is this an obvious attempt to trade on the popularity of a bestseller? Or merely another example of titles changing to suit the readers demand. Much the same that the popularity of genres changes to suit the demand.

So, just what is it about titles that you like or dislike? Is it a combination of the titles and artwork? And could just hearing a title entice you enough to buy the book? Let me know..

Three Truths, Kindles and the eBook Revolution

2011-03-27T08:06:00.000-04:00

I admit it. THREE TRUTHS has been up for sale on Amazon's Kindle store for awhile now. But I was slow to movement to put up previously pubbed works in ebook format to give them another opportunity for enticing readers. This book never quite got the attention that I wanted. It's a wonderful Cinderella-esque story that weaves in a tale of rebirth in both the heroine (Katie) and the hero's (Simon) lives. It talks about taking chances, even when they make us uncomfortable and about believing that there is more out there then we can see.

Kind of like the whole ebook revolution.

The term "revolution" as I use it here is probably not appropriate the change in publishing's collective thinking and the steady stream of authors who are now offering, and finding a venue, for those beloved works that are collecting dust on the back shelves of our internal hard drive. There is definitely a feel of ebracing the unknown when we get into epublishing. There is a whole complete learning curve for both writers and readers to conquer when it comes to changing the way that they think about feeding their need for a good story. I've been in publishing long enough to know that this "revolution" has been a long time coming. Could we ignore it? I seriously doubt it. You'd have to be living in a cave to be able to ignore the fact that more and more readers are making the transition daily to the ebook format, Kindle or otherwise. Even I have tried to read on my iTouch, but frankly, I wouldn't suggest it to anyone in need of glasses. The print requires a larger format to read. My friends fall into two groups, those that have made the transiton to ebook reader and those that still prefer the feel of paper beneath their fingertips.

Obviously, it's here to stay. Even a giant like Harlequin has embraced the ebook transition and offer their categories in the format. That's good news for all those writers whose books had a short shelf life in the printed form. And for authors, this means that there is a chance for an almost instantaneous satisfaction for those who read your books and want to read the rest of what you have written. Instant gratification, devoted readership... and hopefully new life and increased sales for writers. The ebook revolution is here to stay.

Just a reminder, if you want to read about romance and magic with heart you can download THREE TRUTHS at Amazon's Kindle Store for only $1.99. I call that a good deal.

Tax Time for Writers

2011-03-17T19:02:00.000-04:00

There's still time to gather up all those receipts and file your taxes. For writers, this can be an arduous task with vague advice offered on a multitude of sites. But I've found an article on Savy Authors (my new favorite go-to site) that gives some great tips for getting all that stuff in order. Too late for you this year? Well use their advice to set yourself up for success in the coming year. While you're at it, check out www.savvyauthors.com (That's with 2 v's)!

Savvy Authors - Tax Tips for Writers

Workshop alert: Night Writers: 8 Week Book & Body Boot Camp Begins!

2011-03-05T08:10:00.000-05:00

This bears repeating... and repeating... and repeating..
The workshop is free and the instructor is a certified aerobics instructor and a multi-publishing author. I'm willing to give it a shot. How about all of you?

Night Writers: 8 Week Book & Body Boot Camp Begins!: "Welcome to the 8 Week Book & Body Boot Camp! Join me for an 8 week program (free of charge) HERE at the Night Writers Blog! Starting ..."

Wisdom for today

2011-01-13T08:48:00.000-05:00

I found this quote while I was doing research for a book proposal.

"The most beautiful thing we can experience is the mysterious. It is the source of all true art and science. He to whom the emotion is a stranger, who can no longer pause to wonder and stand rapt in awe, is as good as dead; his eyes are closed."
~Albert Einstein, 1932

Hope you find the "mysterious" in your day

In Search of... Motivation

2011-01-01T20:23:00.000-05:00

To clarify things, I'm not meaning my own "motivation". Instead, I'm holding out for a hero and working on the proper motivation for my current WIP, a gaslight gothic with definite paranormal elements. Think... Three Truths with a definite darker edge and, hopefully, darker motivations.

So, what creates a fantastic deep motivation? All through the holidays I pondered what I was working on, hoping the answers would magically appear. If you came through my grocery line during the holidays and I appeared to be in another universe then I apologize. I probably was... a steampunk/gaslight universe. After all, I want to truly challenge myself with this project and take my writing to places far beyond (or in this case it's below) my usual writing. We went to see Tron last night. Other than the distracting side-effect of having to balance the very ugly 3D glasses atop my own glasses I did find time to analyze the motivations of the characters. There were some very definite motivations represented amidst all the flash and pomp. NOTE: Just a few Tron observations. Not intended as spoilers.

Jeff Bridges' struggle to do what his heart wants and what is for the best of all, his struggle to "remove himself from the battle" make him a much stronger character. Cloe's struggles to fight the good fight and stay true to the teachings of her mentor. I like that she was so strong, but they could have developed her more. And Sam, I loved his growth. He was a very strong Disney-esque hero, but still strong enough for those beyond the Disney average age limit.

I find that I am continually drawn to the idea of fighting for something bigger than ourselves. Perhaps it's the champion within me, but I want there to be that reason to risk it all and push onward to the life or death point. I want to believe that the same drive is within all... but, call me cynical... I work retail. I've not seen a lot of that championing the greater good. Maybe that's why heroes stand out so strongly in modern day realm. We are all looking for someone willing to break out of the norm, challenge the expected and fight for something bigger than ourselves.

I think I just may have found the motivation for my hero.

Linear Thought Process

2010-12-12T20:04:00.001-05:00

I know for a fact that there are writers out there that are capable of writing in a straight line. I'm not one them. In fact, there is very little about my entire thought process that can be deemed "straight-forward" or, even (gasp), logical. I try with the best of them to work to expectation, but frankly, I've always pretty much been an "out of chaos comes order" kind of girl. And, after almost 17 years of writing I don't see this changing anytime soon. But the lesson for me is always the same, no matter how many time I try to change my modus operandi... Stay true to myself and my convoluted methods. They have worked for me in the past and will continue onward from here. So, if your looking for logical and rational you'll have to go someplace else. I'll be the one buried under a pile of thoughts and ideas and working to bring order out of the chaos.

Steampunk Anyone?

2010-12-06T20:44:00.001-05:00

If steampunk has a mission, it is, in part, to restore a sense of wonder to a technology-jaded world. ~

Ruth La Ferla, New York Times

Steampunk Moves Between Two Worlds - New York Times

This is a link to an online article from The New York Times from May 8, 2008.

DO YOU KNOW WHAT STEAMPUNK IS???????

I hadn’t been at the RWA National Conference in Washington for long before I heard the word that was circulating with both enthusiastic jubilation and awed murmurs. Steampunk. The “hot” “new” thing in romance fiction. The thing is… it’s not new, at least not to fiction. Steampunk in one form or another has been around for quite some time. Steampunk is most often set in the Victorian Era and have an esthetic of the time period, but they incorporate steam powered gadgetry to rival today’s machinery. There are goggles, airships and corsets. Suzanne Lazear, author and teacher of a recent Steampunk Workshop, described it as “Jules Vern on crack”. But even this may be too broad a term for a genre that ranges from dystopian empires to Victorian clockwork menageries. There are vampires and time travel and alternate realities. And there is dieselpunk, gaslight and Young Adult Epic Adventures. In fact, there are just as many ways to describe it as there are facets to the genre.

What to do some research of your own? Check out these links…

http://www.steampunk.com
http://www.ageofsteam.wordpress.com
http://www.steampunkwriters.ning.com

Or check out some of these authors…

Cherie Priest
Gayle Carriger
Scott Westerfield

There are many more not mentioned above. It is worth the time of browsing the shelves of your local bookstore or online shelves to check out the latest and greatest.

Best wishes and good reading ~

Lobster ports create Christmas trees — from traps - Yahoo! News

2010-12-05T19:24:00.003-05:00

Just in case you think we have nothing to do in our off time here in Maine… Or that we lack a competitive nature… the story of the 50 ft lobster trap tree will prove everyone wrong. Read ‘em and wheep… or at least get a good chuckle out of it.
Lobster ports create Christmas trees — from traps - Yahoo! News

In the name of research

2010-11-16T07:37:00.001-05:00

I love history. I always have. I was exposed to it at an early age and developed a keen respect for those people and events that have come before us. But up until now, very little of that love of history has shown in my writing. This last week or so has drastically changed this.

Enter Steampunk...
I started taking an online course from LARAonline, taught by Suzanne Lazear, that outlines the mystery world of alternate realities, rayguns, dirigibles and aether. It also offers me the chance to incorporate some of that strange compilation of historical mix that I've been torturing my family with for years.

Stay tuned as I jump headlong into my latest strange adventure...

Deathly Turn of a Phrase

2010-09-21T16:52:00.000-04:00

I thought that I had the perfect phrase for my book. It came to me in a unearthly shot of inspiration and I was sure that it was perfect. Start with the dead man, another mystery author suggested. Start there and tell the story that will lure the reader through the maze of who, what, when and where... The problem is that the phrase I wanted to use sounded all too familiar to me. I don't believe in original thought. The whole "there are no new stories, only new ways to tell them". But I certainly didn't want to be guilty of coining a well-used phrase until someone screams in terror. We wouldn't want that... So, for now, as far as corpses go... this phrase is a dead in the water. Or at least until I can resurrect it :)

A simple truth

2010-09-10T07:15:00.000-04:00

As writers, we are often told to "write what we know". To write what you know if to bring a certain level of knowledge to the subject, a sensitivity and awareness that may not be there for a topic we haven't yet experienced. But the simple truth is that sometimes this popular axiom is not as easy to put into practice. Often, the choice to write about a personal experience can be too painful for anyone to get the proper perspective or distance in order to write whatever that is... and do it well.

It wasn't long after my mother's death that a fellow writer friend told me that I should write about the experiences of dealing with my relationship with my mum and her eventual passing from colon cancer. I tried to write the story. I truly did. But I couldn't come close to capturing the pieces that were laying around me like puzzle pieces waiting to be put together. Even now, eight years later, I'm not able to write about those last three months of her life. I'm too close to it. Too emotional. I lose myself and my voice when I write about it and become someone else.

There are those writers out there who can write about their lives and experiences and do it well. Look at Eat, Pray, Love and you'll see a fine example of a woman who is able to transform her choices onto the page and transfix an audience in the process. There is a fierceness that happens with certain life experiences that allows us to be able to share and captivate others with the story. Maybe that is the key... that fierceness.

And then there is the vulnerability. To truly search your soul and put it on paper is to be put a piece of yourself onto the paper for others to see, love, hate and often criticise. That's not always the easiest prospect. To put it out there is like offering your child up for others to pick into pieces. Our natural instincts are to protect our children, ourselves and our creations with a guarded heart. Quite the opposite of what is needed.

I recently took part in a workshop where we talked about recurring themes in our lives. The issues that we continue to work on and deal with again and again. Mine is grief. It as suggested to me that I write down my journey dealing with grief. A task I've taken to heart. There is a very real possibility that this book will neither be completed, or ever seen by anyone, save myself. But isn't the journey worth it? Shouldn't writing, whether seen by others or not, be something that stretches our soul, shakes our core and offers us a mirror in which to see the deepest part of ourselves?

So, what is your journey?

Mystery Monday

2010-06-07T08:55:00.001-04:00

Today I'm bringing my love to my love of mystery. Last week, my daughter's English class took a trip to Newport, Rhode Island. And, because she's such a sweetie, she couldn't resist bringing me back a book that she found by John T. Brennan called Ghosts of Newport, Spirits, Scoundrels, Legends and Lore.

In Ghosts of Newport, Mr. Brennan gives us a detailed tour of some of Newport's most fascinating locations. His love for Newport and his background as a tour guide make this book a quick and interesting read and had me wanting to make the 4 hour trip to see the locations in person. In short, he wrote this book with the same kind of voice and passion that I've been trying to instill in my own non-fiction book. And it shows.

He covers the more well known locations of The Breakers, Beechwood, and The White Horse Tavern (The oldest in the U.S.). But he also covers some fascinating history of gravestone carving and the legend of the Palatine.

Like local legends and lore? Check out Ghosts of Newport... it's worth the read.

Friday Free-For-All

2010-06-04T07:31:00.001-04:00

First, let me say... I know I should be writing. In fact, there are a lot of things I should be doing, such as laundry, paying bills, cleaning house... the list goes on and on. But I got sidetracked and now I'm having a hard time getting back to it. You see, I just found out some big news!

The Good News: Manchester United is playing some preseason games in the US!

The Bad News: There is no way I can afford the tickets or the trip to Philadelphia (closest local) to see them.

I confess that I'm such a new fan that I continue to ask so many questions that it really bugs him. But I can't help it. Of course, when you see pictures like this you can see some of the appeal :)

Thursday is...

2010-06-03T07:03:00.000-04:00

a day for giving you all a little taste of heaven. Hope you enjoy my view of Maine...

Official... Whatever Wednesday

2010-06-02T06:34:00.001-04:00

I've made it officially "Whatever Wednesday". This came out of the current misdirection I'm experiencing in my life. But something happened tonight. I went to my son's school presentation for their Civil War projects. I watched an auditorium filled with 11 and 12 year olds who were all struggling to present their projects in a way that would interest the audience for the evening... the parents.

For the most part they did a wonderful job with their presentations. Some where clearly very comfortable talking with the adults and communicating what they had learned, while others choose to let their projects stand for themselves and stand quietly by. It was easy to see which kids became passionate by what they learned and those that did it because they had to. I went around and asked the same question of all the students I talked with... "what did you learn from the project that surprised you?" Some where able to readily answer it and other struggled with it. My goal wasn't to embarrass anyone, but I was looking to see if there was a kid there that felt so strongly about their projects that they wanted to share it all.

So, here's what I picked up tonight:

1. A project worth doing is worth doing well. This isn't a new phrase in our house, but it's adaptable according to the subject. Usually, it's homework of any sort. Know your subject, be able to relate to the subject and be a present it in a way that doesn't overload, but does entice the audience.
2. Be passionate about something. There were kids there that covered the battles and there were kids that covered the life of soldiers during the war. There were representions of uniforms, food and even an incredible life-sized Gatlin Gun (non working, of course). But probably the most interesting was Henry, who presented his project on the medicines used to treat the wounded after the battles. He gave great detail about chloroform and a rousing rendition of "I Will Survive" that had been adapted to the point of view of an amputee soldier. He must have sung it 10 times while we were there. But there was definitely a passion behind his performance. Whether it was for the performing or the subject, I'm not sure.
3. Sometimes when you are lost you just need to muddle through until you can find your focus again. This little life lesson came from my own son who despite a deluge of interesting facts about Joshua Chamberlain and the 20th Maine at Gettysburg, still struggled to find something to be passionate on his own about the topic. Maybe he gets his focus from his mother, God help the boy. He's going to have to find his way to muddle through just as I did, and still do at times.

So, I've given you my tips for Whatever Wednesday on making things work when they just don't want to... Got any tips you'd like to share? I'd love to hear them.

Twitter Tuesday

2010-06-01T07:23:00.002-04:00

Twitter Tuesday

Follow me has become more than just a catch phrase for those who use Twitter as a marketing goldmine. Authors such as @ElizabethSCraig, @YasmineGalenorn and @lynneconnolly are adept at using this social network to it's greatest advantage. If you follow me at all you've heard me mention Elizabeth before. She continually lists blogposts that will benefit writers... several times a day. Yasmine uses Twitter to connect with readers and give them tidbits of her upcoming work to entice them. Lynne is passionate about sharing the latest books and industry information.

If you want some inspiration, I'd suggest you run on over to Twitter and follow their tweets... it's well worth the time and effort.

2010-05-31T20:49:00.000-04:00

First, before I go any further... I need to tell you about Elizabeth Spann Craig's latest post on her blog Meanderings and Muses. She's staring down the barrel of summer vacation and all it's temptations and diversions and has come up with some wonderful ideas about how to avoid the procrastination traps. Check it out! And keep coming back to her blog daily because it's worth the trip.

Second, I'm going to talk about my battle with writing...
It's no secret that the last year has been hellish in more ways than one for my family. I feel as if we've come through a fog and only now are seeing the other side. I also know that there are plenty of other families out there that are in worse situations then we are and have been. I was checking out Sherrilyn Kenyon's post on Facebook last night and she was talking about making it through the tough times. She was heartfelt in her words and I've heard her story before, but hearing about how she persevered despite her pitfalls. After reading it I realized the very important thing that I'd forgotten for awhile... the writing keeps me sane. I need to write and I need to continue to write. I can't get bogged down in the cosmic crap that happens everyday in my life. I need to raise my chin up and look forward, past the obstacles that are at my feet. Most people would be happy with the minor success that I've had. I'm certainly grateful for it. But I'm greedy enough to want to share more of my stories. I want people to cry and laugh and live with my characters. If I can do that then the rest will fall away...

Living Courageously

2010-05-03T12:21:00.001-04:00

Living Courageously: Here's How | Psychology Today

My mother spent her entire life living in fear of anything that she couldn't control. It dominated her life and her health and I'm fairly certain it contributed to her cancer. When she was told that they could do nothing more for her cancer she took the news as stoically as she did with anything else, and then buried herself in fear. My sister and I encouraged her to do the things she'd always wanted while she still could, before the effects would limit her. But she threw away those dreams because she was scared. She even refused to go to Boston for a second opinion because it would have put her outside her element. But in the end, she was calmer than I'd ever seen her. I believe that she'd come to terms with her mortality and there was comfort for her in her belief that there was something else beyond this life.

Today, I made an appointment for a colonoscopy. This will be my third in the 7 years since Mum passed away. I was told it would be October before they could get me in for my procedure. They are booked way in advance because of scheduling issues. Normally, my fear of making waves would have me just accepting it and waiting scared until October. But today I remembered the lesson Mum taught me and I pushed back. I didn't get far, but I did get on a waiting list for cancellations. And I did let them know that this kind of scheduling only advances peoples fears and causes more problems. I did it nicely. I was polite. But I made my point.

When we let fear into our lives we give it a power over us that nothing and no one should have. I've included the article from Psychology Today because it's well written, succinct and urges everyone to Live Courageous.

Know your family's health history.
Make sure that you take the precautions necessary to stay healthy.
Be your own advocate. Don't wait for someone to champion for you.

and lastly, don't let fear take control of your life....Live Courageously.

Mr. Darcy with a James Bond Edge...

2010-04-20T20:03:00.001-04:00

Strange title to be sure, but not when you consider that this is how author C.S. Harris describes her Sebastian St. Cyr mysteries. Ms. Harris' books have been on my "to read" list for quite some time, but it was only after a trip to the library today that I was finally able to pick up her book What Angels Fear.

As it happened, I had taken the kids to the local drive in for dinner and I started reading the prologue aloud to them. (They are used to my eccentricities). Somehow reading it aloud enabled me to really focus on the brilliance of the words. Within a few paragraphs Ms. Harris managed to set theme, tone, character and station and all with incredible tapestry of textures, emotions and senses.
I've been very lucky this year, I've discovered some incredible mystery authors. Deanna Raybourne and C.S. Harris are new to the top of my list. A debt of thanks goes out to you. You make me want to be a better writer.

Check out http://www.csharris.net/ for more on her mysteries...

More themes, past life, secrets and writing genuine stories...

2010-04-08T20:47:00.000-04:00

I was listening to a podcast tonight that covered reincarnation from the Pair a Normal Guys. It was an interview with Rebecca Anne Locicero who is a psychic medium. I tune in quite often to these podcast since I find them great inspiration for myself and my writing. But this interview touched something in me about the recurring themes in my own life.

I've already talked about grief. But one of the things that I have really talked much about are the impossible connections that have been made in my life. If I'd ever been a skeptic when it came to fate then these instances in my life have made me a believer. My theory has always been that we are brought into this life to learn lessons and that if we don't learn those lessons then we are "doomed" to repeat them. I also believe that there are those people who we will make a connection with despite all obstacles because they are meant to be in our lives. This is much about what Rebecca touched on in her interview.

If you read my stories I have a tendency to add family secrets into the stories. Not because I think that they are essential to a story, but because this is what I grew up with. There were so many secrets in my family that it's a wonder they didn't buckle under the weight of them. Some of them were mentioned in whispers because my mother insisted that certain people didn't need to know our business. The worst part was that none of these secrets was enough to damage anyone. But by making them secrets they were given the power to change, interrupt and even impair our lives. By keeping up a good front those secrets became the "ghost" in the room. It was there for holidays, birthdays and just plain old everydays.

I've been thinking a lot about writing books that I call "genuine". This is going to sound as if I'm knocking the work of other writers and I'm truly not. But the stories that resonate, that touch the soul are the ones that are "genuine" and "true". The good, the bad and the sometimes tragic are all presented realistically. May I always be able to write a "genuine" book. And may they always resonate with hope. Because without hope even the "genuine" would become boring and everyday.

I've skipped a round a bit on this post, but there are a few nuggets of inspiration here. I hope you can discern from my rambling and that they give you a bit of guidence both in life and writing.

Recurring Themes...

2010-04-05T22:25:00.000-04:00

It seems as if there is one particular theme that seems to come into just about all that I write. It doesn't matter what I set out to put to paper (or computer screen), but somehow it becomes a base of my stories. It's grief. Perhaps, it's because I've had such a personal relationship with this emotion, or that it's something that seems to revolve and evolve with greater intensity with each generation in my family, but either way, I seem to embroider this emotion into my stories with greater intensity.

Some would think that this denotes a sense of depression, but I actually think it's a way for my mind to evaluate and deal with the emotion. Even when I was involved with Maine Ghost Hunters I found that the cases that had the greatest pull on me emotionally and physically were the ones that involved a family's sense of grieving. To have that need to react and reach out to those that have passed can bring a family or loved one to the greatest of efforts to continue the bond.

Yesterday, two of the younger people that work with me, a brother and sister, lost their mother suddenly. I grieve with them, though I hardly knew their mom. But I do know about the emotions they are experiencing. Grief affects everyone differently, but the sense of loss is the same. That difference is in how our minds handle the emotion. The seven stages of grief are 1) shock and denial, 2) pain and guilt, 3) anger and bargaining, 4) Depression, reflection and lonliness, 5) The upward turn, 6) Reconstruction and working through it, 7) Acceptance and hope.

Very few will experience these stages in order. Some jump right to anger and bargaining, others with work in a numbed shock until the body can no longer deny what it needs to assess. But it's important to remember that just because someone doesn't experience a certain stage it doesn't mean that the emotions aren't real.

This past summer we lost my dad-in-law. He was an incredible man who is greatly missed. Each of the 9 children and my mother-in-law... not to mention the daughter and son-in-laws an assortment of grandchildren, have all experienced the grief in their own way. Each plays a role with the process and each has to find that way that works best for them. Sometimes, as in the grief of losing my own mother, it doesn't ever go away. It's the same for my husband's family.

This kind of emotion is among the strongest that any soul will ever experience. This speaks to others when it's written well within a story. I guess for now, the journey and the inclusion of grief within my stories will continue.

It's 11:30pm...

2010-03-29T23:54:00.001-04:00

and I'm still up. I worked all day knowing that what I really needed to do was come home and write. I need to finish my short story for the Level Best contest, but tonight I ducked out of the work and indulged in a little research. I watched Julie & Julia. I know. I know. It's been out for awhile, but usually the choice of movies is not left up to me. This time I was the one possesion of the Redbox code.

I confess, I wasn't really sure what to think of the movie. I remember well seeing Julia Child cook on WPBN's Boston feed. This was back when we only got four channels. Three regular and the public broadcasting channel. I watched shows like This Old House (Norm's my hero) and Victory Garden and Julia. I've never been a cook. Never took the time to really learn, so the Julia experience was wasted on me growing up. I had a mother who was a Home Economics major in college, but she never really taught me to cook. Something she admitted to me as an adult.

But watching Julie and Julia did make me realize something tonight. I realized that if I possess I trait that will make me endure, if not succeed, in this life... then it's perseverance. I wrote for almost 12 years before selling. Most would have given it up long before that. I've written through the birth of my son, the death of my mother, the loss of jobs, the gain of jobs, the good times, the bad times and those times when I'm merely holding on by the edge of my fingernails. And through it all I just kept moving. Or writing.

In the movie, Julie states that she's not a writer because she hasn't published. It shouldn't have been the published status that determined her "writer" status, but her perseverance. To do something half-hearted is to offer a half-hearted gift. It was only when she persevered that she got her publication. And so much more. Perseverance is about staying with stuff, even when it so hard that all you want to do is something else. I've had people ask me if I ever wanted to give up. I can honestly say that I've never considered giving up. I can't. It's too much a part of who I am. Even if I never published again I would continue to write. It's as much an exercise in sanity as it is a lesson in perserverance.

Julia Child wrote, edited and cooked for years, working on determination and perseverance. I think tomorrow I'll be starting with a new determination. And possibly and new resolve. And we'll see where this leads me...

Bon Apettite'

Photo from TVGuide.com's bio of Julia Child

Not enough coffee...

2010-03-25T08:45:00.000-04:00

It's been a very long week. Come to think of it... it's been a very long couple of weeks. We've had a multitude of committments that all seemed to fill up our calendar. DD went from two weeks of play production that kept her at the high school late, sometimes until 11pm to having softball practice everyday after school until early evening. My DS's projects are wrapping up as well as they count down to the end of their elementary school years and work toward getting geared up for middle school. Through it all I've been checking off tasks left and right and still finding it hard to fit in the things that I need to do or want to do. Hubby and I are rallying best we can, but sleep seems to be going by the wayside along with other struggling issues. Getting time to write is one of those things. I'm sure I'm not alone.

The short mystery that I'm working on was going really well, but I find myself going back again and again to the beginning and tweaking the first few paragraphs. I know that I've only got those couple of paragraphs to not only catch the reader, but set the tone for the story and outline the crime in question. That's a lot of pressure. I know that I have something special here. I just want to make sure that everyone else sees it as well.

So, for now.. it's back to the coffee pot for more fuel for me. Wish me luck.

Going Kindle with Three Truths

2010-03-22T20:23:00.001-04:00

Three Truths

Three Truths was formerly published through Wings ePress as The Three Truths of Katie Talmadge. After much consideration over finding it a good second home I decided to put it on Kindle. I did this after listening to a discussion from a few mystery authors on the Murder Must Advertise list about finding homes for their darlings.

The set up was harmless and the experience relatively easy. I did create a new cover for the book since the last was designed by the previous publishing house. The cost is $1.99 for a download. Reasonable I think for a story with such heart. If you have a Kindle or download to your computers you can follow the links I've provided to check it out. I hope Three Truths finds it's way into your heart as much as it did to mine.

Magic, destiny and fate… Katie Talmadge has had her fill of all three while living in Salem, Massachusetts. Now, she wants nothing more than her little flower shop to occupy her life. But when a mysterious woman promises to change her life with three fateful truths, Katie begins to believe in magic that can only come from the heart. Simon Thorton knows his aunt is crazy for enlisting his help with guiding Katie. He’s perfectly content with his antiques and his memories of his deceased wife. But fate and his aunt have their own plans for him when he begins to look beyond the past and look forward to the future… a future with Katie.

Buy the Kindle edition at Amazon.com

P.S. If you already own Three Truths I'd love it if you would leave a comment on Amazon to let others know what you think of it and thank you to all for your support.

Blessings...

2010-03-17T10:51:00.000-04:00

It's no secret that I'm Irish. You don't have to be around me long to figure it out. There are also some smatterings of Ulster-Scot and Welsh. But for today, I'm all Irish. I've forgone my usual post of the John Ford's The Quiet Man (A Portland, Maine native) and instead I offer this blessing to all...

May you always have work for your hands to do,
May your pockets hold always a coin or two,
May the sun shine bright on your windowpane,
May the rainbow be certain to follow each rain,
May the hand of friend always be near you,
And may God fill your heart with gladness to cheer you.

Slainte'

Mystery Monday

2010-03-15T21:51:00.000-04:00

Forgive the lack of blogging for the past week, but I've been in Tax Hell trying to get things set for the deadline. That doesn't mean that I haven't thought about writing, but nothing truly makes me want to write more than knowing that there is something much more important to be done. It's not been a total loss. I did work quite in a bit in my dirty work journal and discovered that I still have a few holes to fill. In the meantime, I thought I'd share a fabulous blog post that I ran across today...

Confessions of a Mystery Novelist: They Aren't Really "Cookie Cutter" Murderers...

Ms. Kinberg talks about a particularly intriguing topic, murders who are not the horrifying stereotypical killers we expect. Instead, she refers to the ones she calls "the unassuming personality". They appear congenial, even non-threatening in their demeanor. Hardly a worthy oponent? Many writers would say that they are worthy, even for such illustrious writers as Christie... it's a way to tap into the "killer next door".

How many times have you seen the interviews after the murders, the ones where the people surrounding the suspect all tell how "normal" they appeared. In many ways, that appearance of the normal is more horrifying because it could be anybody, anyone you pass on the street, or speak to in the grocery store. Anyone.

In my workshop that I gave at RWA Nationals last summer I talk about making believable Anti-heroes. In many ways, the startling realization that tortures the reader is that the normal conditions of life hide insidious secrets. And the realization that given the right... or wrong... circumstances... or choices we are all a step away from being in the place of that particular character. By creating characters that mirror our own morals and characteristics we can create characters that entice and chill.

Mystery Monday

2010-03-08T13:18:00.001-05:00

In my search to find great information on writing mysteries I've come across quite a few fantastic blogs. Today, in honor of Mystery Monday I'm going to share a few of my favorites.

The Kill Zone - This one touts 7 top mystery and thriller authors and they carry through on their claims. Claire Langley-Hawthorne, Katherine Lilley, Joe Moore, Michelle Gagnon, John Gilstrap, John Ramsey Miller and James Scott Bell. They continue to amaze me with their up-to-date and in-depth information on all aspects of the genre and writing.
The Blood Red Pencil- With a host of incredible authors, Blood Red Pencil works with the combined knowledge of some fantastic (and might I add prolific) authors. Look for posts by Charlotte Phillips, Dani Greer, Elsa Neal, Heidi Thomas, Helen Ginger, Kathryn Craft, L.J. Sellers , Linda Lane, Maryann Miller, Morgan Mandel, Patricia Stoltey and Shon Bacon. In February they featured articles on such topics as grammar, editing, continuity and social media... just to name a few. Expect to spend extra time reading their previous posts. It's worth it.
Make Mine Mystery- This blog is made up a great host of authors including Robert W. Walker, Mark Troy, Tony Burton, Marilyn Meredith, Ben Small, Vivian Zabel, Libby McKinmer, Earl Staggs, Marvin D. Wilson, Jean Henry Mead, Christine Duncan, Dana Fredsti, Morgan Mandel, Chester D. Campbell and Austin S. Camacho. I am always enlighted and sometimes surprised by their great takes on writing, promotion and just daily life.
Mysteries and My Musings - They have great interviews including this week's interview with Diane Stuckart who writes both mysteries and historical romance. She's also giving doing a great giveaway this week.

I hope you enjoy the links I've offered. If you enjoy their posts then take a moment to let them know by commenting and passing on the links. If you know of any great blogs you would like to see included on my Mystery Monday you can let me know at teagan@teaganoliver.com

Sunday Night Detour

2010-03-07T19:24:00.000-05:00

For some reason, Sunday nights for me are a time to follow my muse... or inspiration... or just downright eccentricities and see what kind of odd things I can research. Tonight, it's cows... to be more specific Scottish Highland Cattle.

I have no idea why they came to mind, but I came to the sudden conclusion that I wanted to photograph one. There used to be some in Freeport, but hubby has informed me that they are no longer there. (Actually, it was more like "They've been gone for years. Where have you been.") Anyway, I went on a search for Scottish Highland Cattle in Maine and came up some interesting stuff.

First, they generally don't use them for milk. Apparently, they can be a bit temperamental and touchy about the task of milking. That doesn't mean that it can't be done, but I'm not sure how many brave souls there are out there that are up to the task.

From there I went to see sites like bumpypasturesfarm.com. They have incredible pictures of the cows and show the different colors that can be bred. I also liked their pages on the chickens, but that's for another detour.

According the Maine Highland Cattle Association website, they believe the breed came from the Western Isles and Highlands of Scotland (Ironically, so did part of my family). They have short legs and deep frames (again, like most of the males in my family) and they vary in colors from black, white, brindle and dun, but the most common is red. (Hmmm, grampy had red hair). They can also withstand extreme weather and have two layers of hair to shed water and retain heat. With the uttmost respect I have copied a list of their attributes from the Maine Highland Cattle Association site:
•Quiet, docile disposition
•Thrift and ease of management
•Longevity
•Adaptable to Maine and northern New England's terrain and climate
•Disease resistant
•Productivity and ease of calving
•Therapeutic value
•Picturesque physical appearance
•Lean, low-cholesterol beef

There's enough there to sell a lot of people on raising the beautiful beast. However, I'm not sure my town ordinance will allow for the new pet. In the meantime, I'm going to have rethink the whole keeping chickens thing... enjoy...

2010-03-04T21:39:00.000-05:00

Another piece of my childhood disappeared this weekend. It was a small piece, tucked away mostly in memory. But still such a part of my life. During the storm that struck the coast of Maine this past weekend the winds struck with such force that the islands in the midcoast region were hard hit. There were plenty of trees down and as usual the power went out. The power outages have become a common thing even though the islands that I speak about are connected to the mainland through a series of bridges. When I talked to my father he was matter of fact. He's ridden out many of storms and some of them were atop a huge dry dock structure used to rehab Navy ships and submarines. I've also mentioned before that he's a former Coastie who spent his time on lightships and icebreakers off the New England coast. He's seen his share of storms. But this one made him tired. The biggest casualty was something that most wouldn't have even known existed. It was a long garage like structure that sat on the hill behind my grandparent's house. My guess would be that my grandfather probably built it in the forties when he returned with my grandmother to the harbor. It may have even preexisted it by being an outbuilding for what was a large summer hotel that sat further on the ledge. But to me it was Grampy's workshop. Sometimes I would go with him and he would let me dig through coffee cans filled with nuts and screws. He had all manner of tools in there, mostly dusty and forlorn. But it was there that he spent his time putter and creating. For me, the creative escape is the pages of a story. For my grandfather it was usually puttering around at fixing a small tractor engine or building his greenhouse. He was an avid gardener. When I was little that shop seemed to be huge, with rafters that stretched miles above my head. But I haven't been in it since long before he passed and he's been passed about 15 years. During the storm an ancient tree came down to settle on top of it. According to my father he fears it's totalled. He believes that the only way the walls still stand is from the bracing of the tree within. For me, this is almost as if I'm mourning him again. I always could believe that he was there puttering in his workshop if only I had looked. Maybe he is. But I still miss him. It's funny that something so simplistic as a well-worn structure can bring back fresh grief. Maybe if I try hard enough... when I go to sleep tonight I will return in my dreams to being that little girl who ran up the path to see Grampy putting away in his shop.

Dirty Work and Writing Short

2010-03-04T08:58:00.000-05:00

A couple of weeks ago I talked about what I call "Doing the Dirty Work". In an attempt to make sure that I had the best grip on this book that I realized that I needed to be as organized as possible. It would be the only way to keep it all in line. I have two projects going right now, both have their own level of complications. The first is a short mystery that requires me to use the smallest amount of words to the best advantage and still be able to leave as much mystery as possible. Not an easy task. Just watching the word count alone is enough to scare the crud out of me. But I learned a few valuable lessons while working on his project...

1. The KISS analogy does apply. Simple is better. I usually add a paranormal element to my stories, but in this case I found that the word count didn't really allow for it. Ditto for including extraneous information on processes or background.
2. Isolate your characters. Agatha had it right when she put them all on a deserted island together. Less change of venue means less words new areas to describe.
3. Start with the crime. I figured this one out right away. Save yourself some headaches and start off with the dirty deed. All those lovely bits can be just as easily distributed throughout the story.
4. Kill your darlings... Write out the whole thing and then be ruthless in your editing. It's the only way to save your sanity and still get the words on the page.

All in all, I know that I will get this done. As long as I write a story that entertains myself I'm sure to find those that will enjoy it.

All write with coffee...: Novel Transitions and Tie-backs - Part I

2010-02-27T07:16:00.000-05:00

I've been following this blog for awhile and found that the author has some great insights into what makes fiction work... or not. I was happy to see that the latest topic had much to do with what I'm currently struggling with in my work. Transitions and tie backs. With my current work in process I'm dealing with three separate storylines that merge into one piece. It's more important than ever that I provide a plausible and satisfying plotline that doesn't just drop the information in at random spots. There are two different posts on the subject and I'd encourage you to read both. It's well worth the time.

All write with coffee...: Novel Transitions and Tie-backs - Part I

Literature: The dark side of the boom - Times Online

2010-02-22T20:31:00.001-05:00

Literature: The dark side of the boom - Times Online

After a recent email between myself and a member of the Maine Irish Heritage Center in Portland, I become curious as to the influence of Maine Irish Writers on the fiction genre. I ran across the above article from Times Online in which they give an indepth description of Irish Noir and the role it plays in influencing both past trends in genre fiction and the current ascent of stark portrayals of a country with a verdant aura of realism.

Want to know more about Irish Noir? Read on...

Murder, Mystery and the Paranormal from the News Files...

2010-02-12T07:07:00.000-05:00

Sleuths unravel 16th-century Italian murder mystery - Yahoo! News:
"Sleuths unravel 16th-century Italian murder mystery"

One of the things that truly fascinates me is when new technological advances can possibly be used to solve old cases. In this case, it's being used to find the clues behind a 16th century murder.

In 1563, Baroness Laura Lanza and her lover were murdered, their bodies buried in a common grave below the local church. The case has never been completely forgotten and now, along with an urging from the mayor of Carini, Italy, they are hoping that modern technology will help solve the case.

Could we truly solve a case where all involved have been gone for centuries? They are betting that science can clear the case. Science along with a little supernatural help. Supernatural help? Surely not? But if you read the last paragraph of this article you will see that even modern science is hoping to have a little help from beyond...

"Several years ago we tested areas of the castle we knew the Baroness lived in with electromagnetic field meters, and the results were very strange," La Fata said. "In certain rooms it was as if there were ghosts in the castle, as if the murdered Baroness lives on."

If the Italians can see a possible corrolation between the advances in scientific advances and advances in the parapsychology field to find long forgotten clues, then maybe we have a chance of opening up a whole new world of the unknown.

Searching for the view

2010-01-25T23:07:00.001-05:00

It was only when I started thinking about analogies that I realized that I was working my way through a fog so thick that I could only trust that there was something on the other side. I'm working on the plotting or "dirty work" and I really feel that it's coming together. And, it was during this time that I remembered something that had happened on a trip to Vermont a couple of summers a go. I had taken the kids on a spur of the moment trip to Vermont. On the last day of the trip I had gathered the kids up early and made our way down the historic Route 7a from Rutland to Bennington. We'd enjoyed a brisk morning view of the surrounding mountains as I led the kids on a historic adventure. But we still had a long way to go. And, since this was before I had bought my GPS, I found myself plotting a course on the Molly Stark byway. Now, to be completely honest, parts of the trip did seem very familiar to me. It wasn't uncommon for my parents to take us on trips to Vermont growing up. But as we began to climb and the road became steadily tilting in a northerly direction I had that niggling sensation that was creeping up my spine. There was that odd familiarity knocking at my door. And, it would seem that it knocking on my sons door as well. Despite the fact that Will had never been on the road before he was becoming increasingly anxious from his spot on the backseat. The fog began to close in around us and my speed reduced and we all began to edge forward in our seats. As we crested the top of the mountain the fog had created a shield around the car leaving only a few feet of viewing. But at that moment I knew exactly where I was. I knew perfectly what it looked like without the fog and I was able to reassure my son that beyond tha fog and beyond that fear was a beautiful view. Hogback Mountain. I remember it from my childhood. (if you'd like to see it clearly you can check out Steve Borichevsky's Shooting My Universe Blog with beautiful views of the mountain.) Anyway, we descended the mountain with little problem other than some harsh wear on the new brakes my husband had installed just before the trip. I remember very clearly the moment we came out of the fog. To our right was an orchard and it sparkled with the mist. Totally beautiful. Our reward for perservering. Writing this mystery is very personal, very hard to deal with emotionally and sometimes I can't quite see where I'm going. But I do know that when I come out the other side it will be worth the experience.

The Hunt for Clues

2010-01-25T08:00:00.000-05:00

Last week I wrote about doing the "dirty work". Now, more than ever, I'm beginning to realize that by not doing this "dirty work" I'm cutting myself short. I'm not giving myself the opportunity to write a fully realized story. Every single time that I've sat down to write a story and had it fall flat I know that it's because I failed to write a fully evolved story. Either the motivation of the characters is unrealistic or even uncharacteristic. Or the there isn't enough conflict to fully sustain the storyline.

The same could be said in my hunt for clues. Many times I have no idea that something that I've written will become a clue for the story. But when I come to a point that I know the characters motivation is lagging I know that I also haven't given the characters enough to work with, either emotionally or physically. The story I'm currently working has two murders, one old and one new and they mirror each other. I won't go into details about it, but I've been wanting to play with the idea that an old murder can be solved because of the efforts put into a new murder. The other large part of this story is secrets, tons of them. Everyone's got them and frankly, keeping them straight is beginning to be a task. So, this is where the "dirty work" comes into play. I MUST log everything as I go along, all the clues, all the secrets, all the details that could prove fruitful for the storyline. So, when I get to end I can wrap up all the details and settle all those clues.

I'm off to do more "dirty work".

2010-01-23T10:13:00.000-05:00

Hope can heal a body, a soul and a heart...

Doing the dirty work...

2010-01-21T21:48:00.001-05:00

I was shamed into it really. I read a recent blog post from someone who had been asked by a teacher to show the work that she puts into her YA mysteries that she writes. It was an attempt to show a student that the prep work is beneficial to getting the best story possible. The author had laid out all of the work and graphs that she'd created in her attempt to create a plausible and fulfilling story and photographed them for the posting.

It was then that I realized that the reason my story was floundering was because I hadn't done the dirty work.
I've been doing research online and talking with many who have experience in the psychiatric field, but I hadn't gotten down to putting the reasonings of the characters to paper. I started with the old standby, a GMC, or Goal, Motivation and Conflict chart and I did one for each of the main characters. I then went back and started with the murders in the story. After all, they are the reasoning that pulls them all together and gives them a common goal. But it wasn't until I put the information side by side that I began to see the mirroring in the story. I'm still working on the dirty work. There's lots to be done before this story can even truly begin. But this is what is going to make it strong. The story is all about what happens when the secrets overwhelm us and become the controlling factor in our lives. But secrets have a way of coming to the surface, whether we want them to or not. I want to show what happens when they can no longer be denied.

On a personal note...

2010-01-20T08:49:00.000-05:00

It started when I got books from the library and they printed out the little slip to let me know when to return the books. It said 01/20/10. I looked at it, noted that it was some important date that I should remember and then went on with my life. The date came up again last week and again. I wondered what it was that I was supposed to be remembering about 01/20/10. I briefly thought of my sister, but her birthday is not until the 24th (Happy early Birthday, Sis). But it was only about half way through the day yesterday that it finally hit me what the significance of the date was. It would have been my parent's 50 wedding anniversary. Granted, were Mum still with us it still would not have been a celebration since they had divorced some years ago. But she did always note the date with a passing bit of wistfulness since they went their separate ways. I'm sure she'd be a bit sad today. Me? I'm thankful and consider it a time of reflection, if not celebration. Were it not for that event 50 years ago I probably wouldn't be here. I wouldn't have a wonderful father and sister and I would not have continued on with the legacy that is my family. So, for me... I think I'll probably shed a tear or two, but I'll also raise a glass in celebration.

Typically British Reading Challenge 2010

2010-01-18T19:09:00.000-05:00

Really, who could NOT be drawn in by a face like this? And when it comes attached to a challenge then I'm all for it. The challenge, posted over on Book Chick City, challenges readers to partake in some classics. Here's the info:

Timeline: 1st Jan 2010~ 31st Dec 2010.

Only books started on

January 1st count towards this challenge.

Details:
1. Anyone can join. You don't need a blog to participate.
2. There are four levels:

• "Put The Kettle On" – Read 2 Typically British novels.

• "Gordon Bennett" – Read 4 Typically British novels.

• "Bob's Your Uncle" – Read 6 Typically British novels.

• "Cream Crackered" – Read 8 Typically British novels.

3. Any book format counts. Must be fiction not non-fiction.
4. You don't have to select your books ahead of time, you can just add them as you go. Also if you do list them upfront then you can change them, nothing is set in stone!
5. The books you choose can crossover into other challenges.
6. If you decide to participate in this challenge please use the link I have set up below with the button to post on your sidebar, this way others can find their way back to this post and join in the fun.
7. If you decide to join this challenge be sure to create a post telling others, please make sure you add a link back to this post so others can join in.
8. There will be a place for you to link your reviews, but this is optional.
9. Obviously only British authors count!

Want more info on the challenge and to sign up Click on the bulldog button on the right and it will take you to the Book Chick City Post. (or here). Good luck to all who participate!

Taphophile. Not a dirty word...

2010-01-12T06:23:00.001-05:00

Hello, my name is Teagan and I'm a Taphophile. No. Don't panic. It's not as bad as it sounds. Contrary to popular belief, it is not necrophilia. It is, however, an addiction of my own choosing. A taphophile is a person who loves cemeteries. (Also, they usually have a fondness for funerals, but frankly, I don't fit into that characteristic.) Usually, the addiction manifests itself into someone who spends inordinate amounts of time on cemetery crawls, looking for fascinating stones and revelling in the history. For myself, this addiction led to paranormal investigating. After all, it's fairly hard to explain why you like to walk through old cemeteries as a way of tension relief or just sheer curiosity.

There are entire websites devoted to Taphophiles. Sites like Taph.com and Yahoo list groups such as Gravestones. For myself, the addiction started when I was searching for my ancestors in the local cemeteries. I began to realize that there were so many out there that no longer had anyone to take care of the plots. There are entire cemeteries that are fading into the landscape as they become forgotten. I'm determined that those people not be forgotten. The stones themselves are a link to the past with history and characteristics that reflect the person. The sheer siz and material used usually reflected the wealth and status of the occupant. A particular cemetery near where I grew up has quite a few stones that have a hand pointing upward. After researching it I found that it was often used to signify the path or righteousness. The way home or ascension to Heaven. Want to know what certain stone carvings represent? Check out Grave Addiction. Want to know more? All you have to do is Google to find all you could ever need to know. And in the meantime... My name is Teagan, and I'm a Taphophile.

From Publishers Weekly Daily Digest

2010-01-11T11:52:00.000-05:00

-- Publishers Weekly, 1/8/2010 11:41:00 AM

Kensington Publishing has appointed Alicia Condon to succeed the late Kate Duffy as editorial director of Brava Books. The announcement was made Friday by Laurie Parkin, v-p and publisher of Kensington who called Condon’s appointment the next step in the evolution of Brava. Condon “will be in a terrific position to move the existing program forward and define its future as she leads it in new directions and nurtures its new talents,” said Parkin.

During her career Condon helped to launch Silhouette Desire, and for the past 24 years she has headed up the editorial team at Dorchester Publishing, where, among other accomplishments, she created the Love Spell line of paranormal romances. She will report to John Scognamiglio, editor-in-chief of Kensington.

Kick Start the New Year!

2009-12-31T20:25:00.000-05:00

Out with the old and in with the new... it's not just a cliche. If you are a professional writer than this should be your mantra for getting ready for 2010. It can't be said enough that in order to be treated as a professional we must first treat ourselves as professionals. I've been in this business long enough to know that I can't expect someone else to push me if I want to accomplish my goals. I need to do it myself. No one else can put my butt in the chair and no one else can make my fingers hit the keyboard. I need to do that myself.

Accept it...
It's about more than making resolutions and goals. We need to be able to put practices in place that show that we are actively pursuing a publishing career. It's not enough to say that I want to be published. I must say how I am going to accomplish it.

I will write 1,000 words a day.
I will log it on a daily log sheet.
If I miss a day I will go forward and not quit. But I will hold myself accountable by showing that I didn't acomplish what I'd promised myself.

Accountability...
I use this word a lot, both in my day job and my writing. As I said before it's not enough to wish. If you don't do the work then you only have yourself to blame. I may not always write every day (today was a good example). But I always do something that moves my career forward. Today, it was a day of organization. I organized all those wayward receipts and put them into the log that I use for tax purposes. This is the first time ever that I've had all my writing receipts logged before the end of the New Year. It feels good. I could beat myself up for not writing, but I did do something that contributes to my treating myself as a professional. In any job there are those days when the drudgery involves endless paperwork (scheduling, yuck) and you would rather be doing the fun stuff. Still, without it the wheels would not keep turning and we would only resent the fact that we had gotten behind or missed something.

So, for my first suggestion on Kick Start your New Year I want to know what you are going to do that will change how you treat yourself as a professional? I'd like to hear it...

"Honest" Writing

2009-12-20T21:17:00.001-05:00

I'm not sure how much grief I may get for this blog post or whether or not I understand what it is that I'm trying to say to the extent that I may convey it clearly to anyone else. But lately I've found that when my writing is lacking it's due to the fact that I have written what I would call an "honest" book.

By "honest" I mean a book that genuinely taps into emotions and conveys them to the reader. I've picked up tons of books that I was excited to read only to find that they fell flat when reading them. They may have initially captured my interest, but they failed to touch my heart. And that is failure with a book. As writers we are told to write what we know or to write from the heart. But how many of us truly understand that to do this means to put our emotions out there for anyone to see. We must lay our souls bare in order to capture the essence of our story. Notice... I didn't say our character's soul? That's because whether we like it or not our characters are a true reflection of what we see, feel, think and hear. Their experiences are our own and until we truly understand the emotions that come with those experiences we can't truly write and "honest book".

I write about grief a lot in my stories. Mostly, there's the grief of losing a loved one. When I wrote Three Truths my mother's cancer had taken it's final downturn. This was in January of that year and we were told that there would be no more surgeries, she could undergo the chemo and radiation, but the effect would remain the same. I don't remember having a physical reaction to the news. I know that I was sad, but on the outside I remained hopeful for my mother's sake. I sat down to write Three Truths and I wanted to write about possibilities and about hope. In many ways I accomplished this, but I also, ironically, dealt with loss and the ability to open your heart again after loss. I had no idea how important that was going to become to me in the short 9 months after the final diagnosis. But all the fears, hurt, hope... they're all there in the book. I set it all in a fairy tale setting, but the emotions were mine and they were real.

I've been working on a new story lately, one that I haven't fully come to realize it's potential. There is plenty of potential there. But I realized that what was bothering me most was that I hadn't managed to inject enough "honesty" into the story. The characters were too good, too happy and too settled to be set amongst a mystery. I hadn't given them hardships and I hadn't given them a heart that could shatter or break open wide with love. I hadn't given them something that they couldn't bear to lose and then taken it away from them.

So, it's back to the drawing board. I need to understand just what it is that they are truly hiding within themselves. Maybe, when I do discover it... I'll be able to write that "honest" book.

Slugging away at my writing...

2009-12-19T18:34:00.000-05:00

Day 3: And so far I've managed to write each day. I have a measly little goal of a 100 words, but find that most days I blow that away... except today. Oh, I got to my goal. But it wasn't easy. I'm tired and cranky and had a long, long day of pre-Christmas retail work. The last thing that I could think about was being creative. Still, I manage to get those words onto the page. And I can truthfully say that I am proud of myself. Besides, there is always tomorrow to finish the Great American Novel. :)

When Inspiration Strikes

2009-12-17T05:20:00.000-05:00

I'm up early. At least early for me. Hubby has left at this unGodly hour for work and I found that I couldn't let the characters in my head stay silent anymore. For two days I have worked long hours with only a few minutes caught here and there to be able to satisfy their need for attention. But this morning they want their time in the light. I've turned on the lights on the tree, set a pot of coffee to brew and sit here in semi darkness trying to rationalize why, on one of my few days off I'm not lounging in bed with the covers pulled up around me and dreaming of warm places.

For some reason the holidays have always been a fairly creative time for me. I don't know if it's just my minds complete knowlege that there is very little time allotted for creative endeavors. Or if it's the fact that this is the Universe's way of reminding me that this is what I truly wish I was doing. But since bills must be paid and a roof must stay over our heads, I know that I must work.

Still, it's at these quiet times that I know my soul can't deny that what I truly want to be doing is writing. So, for now... I wish you all a pleasant morning and a cup of something to warm you. May you have a wonderful day and be blessed in your endeavors.

Writing the Road Less Traveled

2009-12-16T07:30:00.000-05:00

Surprise yourself. If you outline, be loose as you lay out the story. If you just write without an outline, hack away in semi-darkness. If you know your destination, don’t take the freeway. Explore the back roads. Visit landmarks that are off the beaten track. Ask yourself as you write, Is there another way to get where I’m going?

The above quote came from Gail Carson Levine's blog where she posts about predictability. Some of you may know Ms. Levine for her young adult books such as Ella Enchanted. But she's been writing mysteries lately and she has a lot to offer in the way of help for writers.

I think the above quote really does sum up what we should be thinking when it come to writing books that satisfy our readers. She's relentless in questioning whether the point being offered is taking the easy way out for the writer and thereby cheating the reader. Frankly, she's got a point. I do think that writer's are a hard reader to satisfy. We tend to tear things apart and be much more critical than a non-writing reader. But shouldn't we be stretching, trying to make those books the best they can be? Shouldn't we be interested in creating that mystery that surprises and delights?

She talks about when you come to a plot point in the story to make a list of possibilities for the book. Then look at them all and take the one that is the most unlikely or hardest to get to... take the road less traveled. Offer your readers an opportunity to be surprised and inspired and delighted. Make the story worthwhile to both yourself and your readers. Keep them coming back.

And while your at it, check out Gail's blog... it's worth the trip.

Work Messes with my Writing...

2009-12-15T07:54:00.000-05:00

Since I have yet to hit either the lottery or the NYT list it is a given that I am reduced to continuing on with my day job. The title "day job" is a bit of a misnomer in this case since I work retail. For instance, I worked until 9:30pm last night... only to turn around and work at 9 this morning. But since, I'm not independently wealthy I must continue on and write while I can.

At the recent Maine RWA Christmas party (hosted by the fabulous Diane Amos) a few of us had a discussion about one of the chapter's motivation loops. It's called the Word Ho's. And no, you're not reading that wrong. This was a yahoo list that was developed over the last year so that it could help motivate and keep members accountable. They report in on their progress and are responsible for doing as little as 100 words a day. That could be a paragraph for some... a sentence for others :) But the idea is to keep it simple, keep them writing and keep them accountable for putting the words on the page.

The idea of giving our members a tool like this has been in the works for years. We've tried giving out tickets for accomplishments and postings of work for the day. There have been just as many ideas thrown out as we've tried. I think that the biggest part of it's success is that you are holding yourself accountable in front of other people. Kind of like dieting with a friend. We all succeed better when we know that someone is loooking.

So, for now, the Word Ho's appear to be staying.

Blog Envy

2009-12-14T08:37:00.000-05:00

I've got it.

I normally peruse quite a few blogs when given the chance. Mostly I read author blogs, usually ones that involve mystery or romance authors. But every once in awhile I come across a blog that really "WOWS" me.

This week it was Desperately Seeking My Inner Mary Poppins.

This blog works on so many levels. First, the writing is good. Any authors out there looking for a little bit of that sense that someone else understand our insanity will get it by reading Mary Beth's posts. (more...)
Then there is the awesome design. This really sparked my envy. I was immediately hooked by the colors and the theme. I immediately asked her who had designed it and found that she and her husband had come up with the design.

She's got links to all the usual suspects, Twitter, Facebook, etc. But the theme is carried on my the great little Mary Poppins icons and catchy titles that she uses. If you want to know how to read more about her work there is a way to do easily.

After that first bit of envy had departed I quickly realized that there were so many people I wanted to tell about her blog. So, here it is...

Want to see an example of a really great blog? Check it out for yourselves...

Memories of home and holidays

2009-12-13T20:15:00.000-05:00

A couple of weeks ago my daughter and I started a fan page on Facebook for my hometown, Cundy's Harbor, Maine. We did it because there were so many of us living abroad (that is... beyond the town line) that we wanted to make sure that there was a place for many of us to go and register our thoughts. As of the last count we had 87 fans. That doesn't sound like a lot, but when you figure that Cundy's Harbor is just a small part of a bigger town and the main road is only about 9 miles long... this is quite a few of us. More are coming I'm sure. Making that turn onto the harbor road is the same for me as going home. Even as I cross Gurnet Bridge I can feel it in my bones. That familiarity. That sense of place. That part of my soul. (...more)

There isn't a holiday that doesn't go by that we don't trot out those memories from childhood. Some good, some bad and some are best told now that Mum has passed away. For instance, the time that she went with us to look for a Christmas tree and stepped off the side of the road into the snow, only to sink to her waist. (Note: Mum was only 5'3 on a good day). We laughed until we cried and she did not appreciate our humor. Or there was the year she was making pie crust the night before Thanksgiving and put them in the oven for safe keeping, only to find that a mouse had gotten in and nibbled (and other things) on the crust. Thanksgiving morning she had to start from scratch and she was truly not impressed.

Stories involving my father are usually much more humorous and are often involve either firearms, or his own brand of logic. For instance, that same year that Mum had the disasterous time with the pie shells she had finally gotten them cooked and cooled without further incident. Dad carefully placed the pies in the trunk of our old car and we set off for a cousins house, but just as we rounded the first corner on Cranberry Horn there was a disasterous thunk. When dad got out investigate he found that the spare tire had slid forward onto the pies. He never said a word to Mum, merely scraped the meringue back onto the pie and we set off once again, swearing Kathi and I to secrecy. But we were never very good at keeping those stories to ourselves. I don't believe that the cousins ever figured out about the pie... until now. Then there was the year that Mum insisted that Dad help us look for the tree and he brought along his shot gun. When she questioned why he only told her that there were no "good trees" at eye level on our 10 acre woodlot. The best trees he reasoned where high up. And since he had no intention of cutting down an entire tree only to get the top of it he believed it would be best to shoot off the top of the tree. And that's just what he did.

Now, you have a good idea of where I get my sense of humor :)

As the holidays get closer I find myself lingering over these memories, sustaining myself of the humor and innocence and the fun that we had. I hope that someday when my kids are grown and we are gathered around for a holiday that they will look back with the same fondness that I have.

Thanks Mum and Dad for the memories.

Evolution

2009-11-16T08:18:00.001-05:00

My blog is going to be undergoing a change over the next couple of weeks. For the last couple of months I've felt like I was in transition, unsure of which direction to go. Ironically, it was as I was pumping the water out of my basement yesterday that I had an epiphany of sorts. By using my blog as only a chance to share my writing tips I feel as if I've limited myself. I want to share my passion for Maine, as well. So stay tuned, changes are coming...

On Writing... faith

2009-11-03T08:57:00.000-05:00

Having faith isn't about getting what you think you want immediately. It's about holding onto that faith until it's the right time for what you need to be received.

This is my quote... It's something that I try to live by. I'm not an overtly religous person, but I do consider myself to be spiritual. And for me spirituality and faith go hand in hand. So, what does this have to do with writing?

Without faith in anything your characters will have little true motivation to spur them forward. If you think about all the things that we throw at our characters, giving them all possible hurdles to overcome then it needs to be balanced by a faith that will carry them through the rough times. The same with people. We all experience rough patches in our lives, times when you wonder what it was that made someone paint a bullseye on you. But if you have faith then you can move forward. Faith in anything even miniscule will grow and thrive and give you rope that you need to pull yourself forward.

So, I'm still asking what my characters religous background is... but I'm tempering that by a belief system that is based on spirituality. I've known men in my life who go to church every Sunday out of obligation, but their spirituality comes from the time that they are on the water, that sense of being that comes from deep within them.

Just what is it that gives your characters faith? And how deep do you have to take them before it is challenged?

Do you really know?

2009-10-27T08:21:00.000-04:00

It isn't until I started working on my first non-fiction book proposal that I truly realized how wide and varied are the markets. I was intimidated by the idea of analyzing the competition and listing them within the proposal. Surely, to compare my work to another would be a process in the egotistical, but frankly, what I found was it was an endeavor that promises to weed out any weakness within my own work and truly look at the place for my book within the market.
As writers we like to believe that our ideas are unique. But once you truly look at and analyze those other books then you begin to see where your own could be strengthened. Perhaps your topic is too broad, covering too much to be succinct. Perhaps your idea is limited and then you face the fact that you may not have enough to carry a book. And of course, there is that issue of saleability. Everyone would like to believe that their book will be instant success, but even selling isn't a guarantee of a readership. It takes so much more to make that a reality. How does your book compare to others within the market?

Goals and other things that I avoid... But shouldn't

2009-10-18T10:52:00.000-04:00

I have one of those Google alert thingies set up to notify me when someone posts a blog involving "writing" and "mysteries". I find helpful to be able to see what others are saying in order to be able to get my creative juices flowing. This morning I opened my mail to find that there was a blog post from a YA author named Justine Larbalatier, called Writing Goals Redux. Apparently, at the beginning of the year she'd posted her goals to write and publish under several different genres, pov and formats. She was now, toward the end of the year, looking at how much she'd achieved. It's impressive. Actually, she's impressive. I'm pretty much convinced that she must not sleep. I can see where she would need to write all of this down so that she could keep track of it. And her books are selling. It's not as if she's writing these manuscripts and stuffing them in the back of her closet or under her bed. No, she's got a impressive list of accomplishments there.

So, this got wondering. Lately, I've been wandering all over the page trying to find direction for myself and my writing. I am unstructured and thus, unproductive. It's not that I don't believe in goals. I'm all for them as a way to hold yourself accountable and as a guidepost for where you want to go. But I realized that it had been more than a year since I'd written down an goals.

Here goes:
Genres:

Romance (straight -- or at least no real mystery)
Romantic Mystery
Romantic Paranormal
Mystery (cozy)
Paranormal Mystery
Non-fiction (paranormal book)
Non-fiction (writing book)

Justine further breaks her list down by POV. I'm pretty much across the board on this one, so I don't think I'll be making changes for this. But I did like her last part:

Stand Alone
Trilogy
Series

Now, the thing is to hold myself accountable for these and see how far it gets me. Anyone else want to chime in on goals? Do you make them? Do you hate them? And do stick to them?

On the trail of a new project... The Non Fiction Book Proposal

2009-09-22T07:53:00.000-04:00

I've written bits and pieces of for the last year. But it isn't until the last month that I've really started looking at writing a proposal for my current project.

Now, I've written tons of query letters. I've the rejection files to prove it. But it wasn't until I garnered the idea for my non-fiction that I found something that truly makes me quake in my boots (short boots,very nice, black, simple). For those who quiver over the dreaded synopsis, and I have heard tons of writers lamenting them over the years, then take a look at just what goes into a nonfiction proposal.
1. Title Page (with it's own layout. Those who write manuscripts are generally familiar with it.)
2. Overview that 3-5 pages long and outlines such questions as ... Who is the proposed audience, Why will they buy it and What I will bring to this book?...
3. Author Credentials. About 1 page and listing vigorously why you are the author to write the book.
4. A Competitive Analysis of books currently available within the genre and specific to what your books is about. Some places suggest that you pick 6-8 books and do an analysis of what is good about them what they could do to make it stronger and how your book will be different.
5. Chapter Summary: It should break down the chapters and give a description of each chapter.
6. And the Marketing Plan! Now, I've made this huge because this is a large chunk of the proposal. With today's burgeoning markets (Wow! I don't even use that word in a romance!) there a more urgent need for authors to prove that they can sell this book with limited help (read money and marketing dollars) from their publisher. And the smaller the publisher the more work you are going to have to put into it. I'm not a stranger to this in any way. But I also know how much work is involved. If you want the book to succeed you must have a GOOD marketing plan and expect to spend many hours on it. If you can't afford the time then there are alternatives such as hiring someone to do this for you. But keep in mind that this is a draw on your hard earned profits for the book. Weigh your options and decide for yourself. A good marketing plan will include: What sets you apart from those other authors (personal experience, degrees in said topic, etc), plan of marketing: blog tours, signings, venues to speak, etc. And don't forget all that lovely online marketing through social networks. If you can pull yourself away from Mafia Wars and Farmville for any period of time (personal experience here) then you can use Facebook and Myspace and Twitter, as well as the other sites to market your book. There are also contest, giveaways, conferences, bookmarks... and I can go on and on and on. This is a large part of your proposal and you want to put a lot of thought and heart into this. Don't over extend yourself, but don't sell yourself short. For instance, I never thought in a million years that I'd be speaking at conferences, but I've done several now and finding it easier every time. The thing to remember about marketing a book is that some options will work, others won't... but if you don't do anything then you won't sell the book.
And lastly,
7. A sample chapter: Pick the chapter with the most impact and include it. But keep in mind, if that chapter with the biggest impact is scheduled as the third chapter in your book then maybe you need to look at this and move it around. The same impact that you are going for with the Agent, publisher, etc. is the impact you want with the reader.

There are tons of resources at bookstores on on the web for writing a non-fiction book proposal. I've spent as much time learning to write one as it takes to actually write the proposal. But once the learning curve is met than it will get easier. I'm even creating a template to future ease.

Blustery wind and an Irish Prayer

2009-08-29T07:44:00.000-04:00

A raw and blustery wind is heading for the Maine coast. The remnants of a hurricane are ready to hit the shores. Some would say it's not a fitting day for much. But my Dad-in-Law would appreciate the iron of such wild weather today, of all days. Today we're burying him... my Dad-in-Law. Notice you won't hear me call him "Father"-in-Law because the man was much more of a Dad to me than the remote austere image taht such a formal name as "father" conjures. He was an imposing man with his stout Scotman's build, but he was graced with a soft voice that could grow and thunder and resonate until it was clear that all in the house could hear him. But he usually chose a much quieter form of communication. He was a gentle soul, who from my first meeting became a friend to me. I, along with my family, will miss him immeasurably.

Do Not Stand at My Grave and Weep
I am not there... I do not sleep.
I am the thousand winds that blow...
I am the diamond glints on snow...
I am the sunlight on ripened grain...
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you waken in the morning's hush,
I am the swift uplifting rush
of gentle birds in circling flight...
I am the soft star that shines at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry -
I am not there... I did not die...

We'll Know When We Get There: Sincerely, John Hughes

2009-08-07T20:06:00.002-04:00

If you haven't read this... please do so. There can be no better tribute to a man who had such an amazing effect on our lives...
We'll Know When We Get There: Sincerely, John Hughes
I was Molly Ringwald in Sixteen Candles... minus getting the cute guy with the car. I was the angst ridden, thoroughly strange (I intended it be more an individualistic aura), and completely awkward teenager. In the Breakfast Club I was more of Ally Sheedy's character, the loner looking at life from the outside and completely wishing that I could be "one of them" if only for a short while. I wanted to be daring and outrageous like Ferris Beuller and funny like Ducky. More than anything... I wanted someone who could look into my life and make it something more. I was a teenager living in the John Hughes era. And somehow, he made it okay.
I still want to drive a pink Opal. But now, looking back, I find that if Mr. Hughes hadn't offered me the passport to be just a little bit off center I'm not sure I would be the person that I am today. I dare to be different. I challenge my kids to be individuals in their own right and to stand up for what they want... and yes, sometimes when we go to Wal Mart the family still calls it Wally World. Just because.
So, I join the world in mourning a great man. And from this former angst-ridden, thoroughly strange, awkward teen... I thank you for your gift.

An observation from RWA National 2009

2009-07-24T20:52:00.000-04:00

I confess... I signed up late for the Librarian/Bookseller Networking event. I didn't have time to send in my stuff because I was so late. I will also confess that I suck when it comes to networking. I get so nervous and self-conscious in those type of situations. But I will tell you about some observations I made at the event...

1. I saw a lot of authors, not a lot of Booksellers or Librarian with tags. Of course, I may have hit it at the wrong time or just not noticed all together.
2. There was a lot of grouping. I've already confessed that these things make me nervous, but to go into a situation like this where people are already grouped off. There should be someone at this who's function is to facilitate and make people feel welcome. Maybe introduce them around if they need it...
3. I saw one author who was standing by her books and display who was talking to a bookseller/librarian about her work. She played it right. She gave them something to focus on and ask questions about. She gave them a reference point to her work and put a face to the name. Kudos to her...

I would love to hear what the librarians and booksellers have to say about the experience. Was it success for you? Did you feel comfortable with the setting? Do you have any suggestion on how this could be improved or were you happy the way it was?

So, I while I appreciate the chance to network, perhaps there are opportunities for both authors and RWA.

The ticking clock...

2009-07-22T09:12:00.000-04:00

Time constraints in fiction are not new. The idea tht the pace of the story is controlled by the need to accomplish the character's goals within the time frame given. This control of environment can be used to:

show the passage of time by using a known event... such as a holiday or tradition.
increase the pacing of the story. As the time on the clock decreases and the adrenahline factors kick in.

Use a ticking clock to your advantage.

Reflections on the RWA Conference

2009-07-20T08:26:00.000-04:00

I'm back. After the long drive back to Maine I have had a good sleep in my own bed and coffee from my own coffee maker (Yeah!). I owe my husband greatly for holding down the fort and doing a fantastic job of keeping up with the kids while I was gone. I couldn't have made it without him.

I thought I would take this moment to go over a few things that I learned at National conference. I'll start with the Leadership seminar that I attended with Delsora Lowe on behalf of the Maine RWA chapter.

We are a professional organization, and as such, we need to remember that our actions represent more than Maine RWA. They reflect RWA. Whether are a part of the chapter because we chose to be a part of a larger organization, or we only seek to be with people who share our interest we need to remember that we are a "professional" organization.
Following proper protocal is important. Not only does it give us a proper operating proceedure, but it provides a frame work to both cover our butts and the opportunity to grow our chapter. I realized by talking to other representatives that Maine RWA is not alone in our struggles. And while our membership level keeps us within the smaller chapter range, that doesn't excuse us for acting anything other than professionals.

There is so much more and Delsora and I came back from the meeting charged and full of ideas. We'll be putting our ideas together when we get Delsora back from her current tour.

Workshops...
I attended some great workshops. I gave a workshop. For me the conference started more after I gave my workshop because I was so nervous. My thanks to all who were so supportive of me and made it such a positive situation. I have a few workshops that I'm hoping to download and listen to again. Maybe I'll be more coherant this time.

Literacy Signing...
It was incredible to be a part of something so huge. I loved watching the people, meeting the people and being a part of the whole thing. Thank you to Kate Walker for being so kind and lovely. It was wonderful to have the opportunity to meet in person. It was crazy and chaotic and wonderful. And I'm glad I was part of it...

I'll have more. I'm still digesting it all. I also came back ready and set to go back to work. I was actually able to write some during the conference and that was nice as well. Now, it is time to put all of the great ideas that I received to work.

Thank you to all who helped make RWA National Conference 2009 a great success and a wonderful experience.

Conference Giveaway Goodies!!!!! Enter Details...

2009-07-11T08:02:00.001-04:00

Want to enter? Check out my Facebook Event Page @ http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/event.php?eid=99953559009

Start Time: Saturday, July 4, 2009 at 8:00pm
End Time: Sunday, July 19, 2009 at 3:00pm
Email: TeaganOliver@yahoo.com

I'm signing at RWA National's Literacy Signing on July 15 @ the Marriot Wardman Hotel, Washington DC. The proceeds are for a great cause, but the signing can be long when you aren't an A-List author. Help me fight my boredom by dropping by to say hi to me and putting your business card in for a drawing of a nifty giveaway bag! I'll be putting an item a day into the bag and since I'm pretty eclectic in what I do... the bag will be eclectic also. There are 2 ways to enter... 1. New to my Face Page? Friend me within the next 6 days (ends July 11) and I'll put you in the drawing.2. Already a Face Friend? Drop me a message and I'll include you in the drawing (good through July 20th).3. Drop by the signing and save me from boredom by saying hi and dropping your business card (or something with your name on it) into my little drawing bag. I'll be drawing the name out of the bag on July 20th.Want to know more about my books... or my ghosthunting... or just life in Maine in general? Drop me a message, a comment, or check out my website @ http://www.TeaganOliver.com -- My writing blog is http://www.TeaganOliver.blogspot.com and my Paranormal blog is http://www.ParanormalMaine.blogspot.com

List of goodies in the bag:
Day 1: Three Truths of Katie Talmadge by me!
Day 2: A lovely pair of Amethyst chip earrings from Mystic Harbor Designs.
Day 3: Grow your own Lucky Clover kit in honor of my blog With a Little Luck...
Day 4: Nope, not a gravestone... You get a copy of Stephen King's On Writing.
Day 5: A bunch of writer goodies! All the little things we love!
Day 6: A charm bracelet from Mystic Harbor Designs like the one in Three Truths...
Day 7: $10 Borders Gift Card!

I'm leaving in the morning for DC, but you can still enter. There's plenty of time. And don't forget to stop by and say hi to me at the conference! Safe travel to those who are attending and I hope you have a wonderful week to those who can't make it.

RWA Prep...

2009-07-09T18:29:00.001-04:00

Phew! So, far today I've been going around and around working on getting things done for my trip to RWA in DC starting Sunday.

So far today...

I spent 1 1/2 hours at WalMart getting the oil changed in my car.

Drove my daughter to Borders to get a book for her summer homework (not RWA related, but still running.)

Drove said daughter to work (and picked her up and drove her to driver's ed)Arghhh!

Packed my suitcase.
Bought my toiletries for the trip. Gotta have that allergy med.
Found my shoes in the bottom of the closet and in my daughter's room (big surprise).
Glued my shoe (again... thanks to daughter).
Put together the Maine RWA basket. I'd post a pic, but too wiped.
I know there's more, but frankly... I can't remember it.

I know when I pull out of the driveway on Sunday morning at 5am there will be things I've forgotten. But right now... I don't care...

Glastonbury 2009 - The Big Picture - Boston.com

2009-07-03T19:46:00.001-04:00

This link originally came from a Twitter follow, London Interesting or @LDN (for those who want to check them out), which led me to their previous posts which led me to these pictures. They are incredible! They also make me very glad to have missed the event. Somehow, I'm not sure you can estimate just how many port-a-potties are needed for 190,000 people who all seem to be drinking heartily. You have to believe that the faery folk with traipsing about and having a good laugh and all without causing a bit of notice. Still, I'd like to Glastonbury... but minus the 190,000 people.

Glastonbury 2009 - The Big Picture - Boston.com

Happy Father's Day...

2009-06-21T08:20:00.000-04:00

This is my Dad. I've talked about my Mom a lot over the years, but I don't really think that I've given enough credit to all that my Dad has done for me. I could go on for days about all the little things that he has done to make sure that I had a good life. All the times that he went without to make sure that we had something that we wanted, or just something that he thought we would like. I could tell you about the encouragement and love that he offers up unconditionally and the fact that should I ever need him he would be there in a heartbeat. I could tell you all these things... well, maybe I already did, but there is so much more to my dad. He is a man who believes in what is just and right and that no person should go undefended. He believes that a good sense of humor can put a shine on any day and that there is nothing that can happen to you to that you can't get through. He's my biggest fan and probably the best promoting tool that I have! (him and my uncle are an awesome pair at this!) And he does all these things with a kind of quiet devotion, working behind the scenes always and taking little credit for what he's done. I am proud of him for all that he's accomplished in his life and the things that he has yet to do. I really won the lottery when I got him as a dad. Someone was smiling down on us. And for this... I will always be eternally grateful.

2009-06-10T20:03:00.000-04:00

Coming in July!

Stay tuned for the exciting details from the road!

Bitten By Books

2009-06-05T05:43:00.000-04:00

Haven't heard of them? Well, if you're a writer then I suggest you hop, skip and jump on over to the website @ http://www.bittenbybooks.com

Not writing paranormal? It doesn't matter because if you are an author there is plenty to learn about the art of promotion. I've never seen a more intensely focused promotional site then this one. Rachel is on facebook, twitter and every where else she can possibly be. She's out there
promoting all day (and most of the night sometimes) for authors with fantastic books.

I've gotten into several of the book releases and it's lead me to some great authors. Yasmin Galenorm, (who has some of the hottest covers out there. I'd say they're as good as the P.C. Cast covers at drawing people in), Sara Taney Humphreys and the list goes on and on. Even my friend Lina Gardiner is on the site. (Buy all of their books. They're fantastic). My only regret is that I didn't know about it when Three Truths came out. It would have been a much different experience.

Deep-sea explorers may lose vast treasure to Spain - Yahoo! News

2009-06-04T13:17:00.001-04:00

Deep-sea explorers may lose vast treasure to Spain - Yahoo! News

It's no secret that I'm fascinated by treasures, pirates and the search for gold. I would say, after all this company has been through... This would really suck.

Just my opinion.

Industry Talk: Indie vs Chain

2009-06-04T08:41:00.001-04:00

There's been a lot of talk on one of the mystery writers list about Indies and Chain Stores. I confess, this is something very close to my heart. As a writer and as someone who wants to see my local economy come back from the hardship of the last few months, I have a vested interest in seeing any bookstore succeed. Here in Brunswick we recently lost our local Indie bookstore. I have a ton of memories wrapped up in that store. My parents idea of a good Friday night was to go to dinner and then go to the bookstore to see what was new in stock. I bought my Nancy Drew books there, my comics, my first romances... and Gothics.. and mysteries... I could go on and on. This store was also the hub for our writer's group. The store had graciously hosted us in their meeting room for years (in return, we bought more than our share of the great food from the cafe). It was sad to see it go. There has been a lot of talk that the new Borders in town was responsible for it's downfall. But I don't think that the total blame of ANY store's demise can be blamed on a chain store.

Distribution:
In my earlier life, I worked for a map publisher and part of my job was to contact Indies about putting the maps (a well established series of map books) into their stores. These were what we considered an automatic buy for most stores. Especially, if their patrons had an interest in the outdoors. I would call and they would say yes or no, depending on the amount of books that they had left on the shelf. Trying to get books into chain stores was another matter. Most often, I would contact the head office, who would forward me to a buyer, who would say I'll get back to you. Sometimes this required multiple phone calls. Sometimes, they would tell me they couldn't be brought in unless we went through a distributor. (I hear a collective groan from a lot of writers out there on this one).

Stocking your book:
This is a hard one to compare. I would have to call it an even draw on this. It depends on the amount of floor space and the ability to get interest in the books. I was selling over sized books that either took up shelf space or required a rack or dump (those lovely cardboard displays that aggravate everyone as they try to maneuver around them in stores.) If it was a shelf sell then it was usually 6 books. If it was a rack it was full product, including more than the map books and meant that they had a vested interest in the product. Pretty much same with dumps, but limited to a few... maybe only one book. We did a lot of these when we had a new state map come out. For an author, shelf space is a priority. Authors have to worry about cost, placement (next to Nora or Clancy?) and availability. Again, this is a draw. Indies work on sometimes non-existent budgets and need to be convinced to bring in your books. Chains sometimes require a pint of blood and your first born child to get it approved and on the shelf. Either way, your promotion, good reviews and backing from the publisher go a long way in helping to get it on the shelf. So, it's a draw for me as to whether your books will get better shelf space and placement in an Indie vs a Chain.

Promotion: Also, Good Customer Service...
Now, my local Indie was very good to the group as a whole. We were not only strong buyers, but they had a first crack at knowing what was coming out But they also were very overworked and unable do the kind of hand sell that authors want. I'm sure it's not this way with all, but this was my experience. Shortly before Obsidian came out I went on a mini road trip around Maine and New Hampshire, making the loop from the coast of Maine up and around Lake Winnepesaukee, NH and up through the mountains and back to Maine. I think I hit something like thirty bookstores in one day. Some were okay. Most couldn't care less if I walked through the door. I was extremely polite (a hot button, ask my kids) and I just introduced myself and offered information and bookmarks. I would say that the overall results were dismal. Sometimes, they were downright rude. But I pushed on. I have found that I actually had better results when I did just a postcard mailing when Obsidian was re released as a large print. The cost of the stamps was less then the gas and aggravation of being rejected so much. Of course, the chains have a system for authors down pat. When I introduced myself to the local Borders I was congratulated on the sale, given paperwork to fill out and asked to contact them when the time got closer. They set up a signing for me on St. Patrick's Day and when that was snowed out and the store had to close they offered to reschedule me on what they called an Educator's Night. They give discounts to educators and offer them goodies and incentives. They called me to offer me this. I was extremely grateful. Even now, when I go in the store they recognize me and ask if I have anything coming out soon. I work retail, so I'm always impressed by good customer service. I'll keep going back just because of this.

Now, there are those who would be upset about the Indie vs Chain debate. I personally feel that there is a place for both within the community. Each have strengths and weaknesses, but there isn't a business out there that doesn't have the same. Me? I'm going to go where they have my books, the books I want, and friendly and helpful service.

Gail Carson Levine: Mystery mystery

2009-05-28T07:31:00.001-04:00

I've been in the processes of undertaking a new project... a mystery. And in my process I've sought out the words of others writing mystery. Today I came across Gail Carson Levine's post on her blog about her own trials with mysteries. I was immediately drawn to her post. My daughter was an avid fan of Ms. Levine's books and I was grateful for the wonderful worlds that she uses to enchant her readers. Not only is she an eloquent writer of spellbinding enchantments, but she is a struggling writer taking on new project... struggling the same as myself. That makes my struggles just a little more approachable.

So, if you are a fan of Ella or if you are a struggling writer (like me), then check out her post for a little inspiration and commiseration. It's worth the look...

Gail Carson Levine: Mystery mystery

2009-05-26T07:20:00.000-04:00

I just realized that Nationals are less than 2 months away. Somewhere in all of the chaos that has been this spring I didn't realize that it was creeping up on me so fast. This, is a big year for me. I've been to several National Conferences over the year, but I've never been a presenter. It's a real honor. I can only hope that I do it justice. Going to be in Washington DC during July 15-18th? We will be, too! The Pop Tart and Dollar Menu Tour is still in the planning stages. Delsora Lowe and I will be joined by a new... errr?! ... author on this trip. I'll let you know who it is when we get closer, but suffice it to say... she's in for a good time!

Thinking lobsters and clams this weekend...

2009-05-23T07:38:00.000-04:00

Well, here's my plug for the local economy. Brown eggs may be local eggs, but you won't get anymore local or fresh then buying your lobster and clams from the local dealers. Fresh from the boat with no little side trips in between. In the Harpswell area? Check out Hawkes Lobster in Cundy's Harbor. While you're there you can peruse the gift items. Sue has a great selection. And Hawkes Lobster ships year round. So, can't make it to Maine? Check out their website and give them a call. You can check out their website at www.hawkeslobster.com to get an idea of what they are offering.

Free Virtual Writing Conference

2009-05-13T07:00:00.000-04:00

This came across the MMA list and I thought I'd pass it along. The list of presenters is impressive and cover the spectrum of the publishing genre. I'll be working on the Maine RWA Writer's Retreat this weekend... but I'll be taking my laptop with me because I don't want to miss this!

There's going to be a Virtual Writers Conference online May 18-22 at... wait for it... http://virtualwritersconference.blogspot.com/. Writers, editors and agents will post columns and respond to comments. It'll be fun, and I'm sure there'll be discussions of promotion.

2009-05-09T21:09:00.000-04:00

The other day I was going through the papers that we compiled after her death over 5 years ago. In it there was this photo. It was taken in at her desk in my cousin Rob's Real Estate office. She was kind of a woman-about-office, helping out where and when she could. She loved it, much more than she loved the years she spent working Civil Service. She was always laughing and having fun and she loved being there. I think it shows in the picture. The other day one of the other realtors spoke to me about mom. She said "She was always smiling. Always laughing." I don't think that's a bad way to be remembered. I love you Mum.

Queen of Time Sucks

2009-05-07T08:35:00.000-04:00

Yup, that's right. I've given myself a new title... or in this case... crown. I have always said that the worst thing a woman can learn is how to be a multitasker. I have yet to see men who have as much of a problem with it as women. And I suspect that a great deal of the trouble has to do with guilt. Women always feel guilty that they haven't gotten more done. They worry that if they spend time on other things that the laundry will go undone and the dishes will stay in the sink. It becomes a badge of disgrace in a way. But only because most women judge themselves by how they think others will see them. (Please note: I am making VAST generalizations in the name of making a point). On any given day I have things that could easily occupy every second. I could find things to fill every moment. But at some point it becomes a detriment to my sanity. If I don't go on Facebook and keep up with my fellow reunion people and I stay away from Twittering about how much coffee I've had I could have that time to sit down and just breathe. I will learn to say "no" and not consider it a failure. I will learn that not everything is my responsibility to complete. And I will accept that I can't be everything to everyone... especially myself.

It's Official...

2009-05-04T21:16:00.000-04:00

I'll be speaking at Romance Writers of America's National Conference this July 15-18, 2009 in Washington, D.C.

Actually, I'll be speaking on Friday morning... here's the line up for those who are able to brave the early morning workshops on Friday. I promise not be overly chipper and annoying :)

Now, I don't need to tell you that there are some absolutely fabulous speakers lined up for the same slot as myself. While it's a great honor to be asked to speak at Nationals, it's a bummer that I'm going to go broke to get the recordings for all the great workshops I'm going to miss! So, if you don't show up... I'll know where you all are... save me some notes so that I don't miss all the good stuff.

8:30 - 9:30 A.M.

20 Questions to a Killer PR Plan (CAREER)

Speaker: Louise Ahearn

What are the 20 most important questions to ask yourself to create a killer promotional plan for your work? An award-winning public relations coach will talk you through them.

21 Years and Counting (PUBLISHING)

Speaker: Jo Beverley

Jo Beverley sold her first novel in 1988, and the years since have been up, down, and sideways. Join this RWA Hall of Fame author as she shares what she's learned along the roller coaster way.

Creating the Believable Anti-Hero: a Stepped Approach to Creating Believable Villains (CRAFT)Speaker: Bethany Oliver

Use the same principals as the Hero's Journey and learn how to ramp up your antagonist's motivations beyond surface conflict to create a truly worthy opponent.

Mastering Your Domain: Research and Development of the Paranormal World (RESEARCH)Speakers: Alyssa Day, Stephanie Julian, and Melissa Mayhue

Three paranormal writers and admitted research geeks will show you where to look and what to look for when blending folklore and mythology with modern genre fiction for extraordinary world-building.

Secrets of the Best-selling Sisterhood (PUBLISHING)Speakers: Jayne Ann Krentz and Susan Elizabeth Phillips

What's it like to be a New York Times best-selling author? Join Susan Elizabeth Phillips and Jayne Ann Krentz for the answers in this reprisal of their ever-popular workshop.

Straight Talk, Librarians to Writers (CAREER)

Speakers: Deborah Schneider, John Charles and Susan Gibberman

Straight talk about libraries and your books, from those who know best – librarians. Find out how to get your books on the shelves, work with libraries to promote your book and give successful programs for readers. (2 hours.)

What Came Before: the Art of Backstory (CRAFT)

Speaker: Winnie Griggs

Award-winning author Winnie Griggs shows how to effectively select what pieces of backstory to include on stage, when to reveal them, and how to thread them through your story in a subtle, yet effective, manner.

Writing the Hot Historical (CRAFT)

Speaker: Lucienne Diver, Janet Mullany, and Pam Rosenthal

This workshop is a guide for the perplexed, shy, or curious on writing erotic historicals that will sell.Spotlight on Harlequin Single Titles

Florida teen finds rocks in Nintendo DS box - plugged in - Yahoo! Games

2009-04-28T15:16:00.001-04:00

Florida teen finds rocks in Nintendo DS box - plugged in - Yahoo! Games

Why am I posting this? Because I can sympathize with the poor kid. But in my case it was a coffee maker and it was substituted with old sneakers and a towel. And yes, they do look at you funny when you bring it back and tell them that it bought that way.

Picture of the day: For Dad

2009-04-22T12:46:00.000-04:00

I spent some time yesterday in Rockland, Maine. Very nice little place. Lots of museums and a wonderful Coffee/Bookshop called Rock City Coffee Roasters. The wind was howling and the rain slashing down, but I had an enjoyable time with my laptop in their coffee area. After that I rode around the waterfront area. It's one of the largest working waterfronts still left virtually intact in Maine. I love it. It's also home to the Lobster Festival every summer. I think, if I had to live somewhere else in Maine... it'd be Rockland.

Anyway, this picture is for my Dad... who, when times get rough and he feels the need to go to camp would usually say that he was headed for "parts unknown". So, here you go, Dad. Here's your boat to take you there....

Totally off Topic: The Holiday

2009-04-19T18:25:00.000-04:00

Never mind that I was mostly asleep when I saw this movie, my apprehension had nothing to do with my lack of sleep or the fact that I was waiting for my daughter to arrive back from her trip to New York and the midnight hour was fast approaching... My apprehension had to do more with the confluence of info I'd seen about the movie when it first came onto the screen. I had dismissed it as jus another chic flick. Another attempt to make a feel good movie that had little to do with lasting impression and more to do with showcasing some of the most noteable faces of the time.

I was wrong. I was going on preconceived notions.

Let me say, I loved the movie. I laughed more than I had in a very long time. It wasn't a breathtaking movie that stirred me to tears. More a quiet upheaval of ideas that twisted me into a deep contemplation of the movie. You see... I never just sit and watch anything. I'm always doing something else. Whether it's writing. Knitting. Making jewelry. I'm never just watching the TV. But I watched it last night. I was interested to see how they were going to take six well-known actors and mix them up and come out with a happy ending. And then, there's Jack Black. I'm a HUGE Jack Black fan. But I'd never thought of him as a romantic lead. He proved my preconceived ideas wrong. Very wrong. He was strong, and funny and real. A real hero in my book. As for Cameron Diaz, I've seen her do quite a few roles that left her loking like an emotional ditz. This one started out that way, but she was so much more. There was real growth in her character and Ms. Diaz showed it wonderfully! The same for Jude Law. I considered his character to be a reflection of as I saw him. When he introduced his two wonderful daughters and their magical tent... I melted. And lastly, Kate Winslet. The last time I watched a movie with her in it was Titanic. I loved her character. I loved her heart, her growth and the way she takes Arthur into her life. This was so much more than you see in other movies.

So, my preconceived notions disappeared like a pumpkin coach at midnight. And I'm looking for a DVD of the movie so I can watch it as much as I want. All is good.

The Offshore Islands by Ruth Moore

2009-04-12T18:18:00.001-04:00

The offshore islands belong to themselves
They stand in their own sea.
They do not inherit; they leave no heirs.
They are no man’s legacy.

Blazing volcanos, cooled and dead,
Marked nowhere a boundary line.
The rise and fall of oceans left
Not one no trespassing sign.

The money was never minted,
The clutch of its greed so strong
It could honor a deed: TO HAVE AND TO HOLD,
And keep these wild lands long.
The first cummer people were Indians.
For some five thousand years
They built up shore-line shell heaps before
They lost to the pioneers.

The white man took what he wanted.
He had privilege, laws, and guns.
He made fast his own boundary lines
And his property went to his sons.

From the west they sailed in Chebacco boats,
And the high-sterned pinkys, Essex-made.
In harbors where water was deep enough,
Their schooners carried a coast-wise trade.

The homesteads they made were study,
But those who built near the shores
Had to dig, if they didn’t want Indian shells
All over their cellar floors.

Then time slipped by, as inheritance does.
They felt the mainland’s pull.
They abandoned their homes to rot away,
And their cemetaries full.
Theirs was the time of history
And written records show
That their hold on the offshore islands began
Less than four hundred years ago.

Now comes the era of real estate,
Of the hundred thousand dollar lots,
Of the condominiums, side by side,
Along the shoreline choicest spots.
What follows the time of developers
No human voice can tell.
But the silent offshore islands know,
And they handle their mysteries well.

They speak with a voice that is all their own,
And this is what they say:
That they talk in terms of a billion years
That their now is not today.
And the ghosts they brought along with them
Have never gone away.

High Clouds Soaring, Storms Driving Low

2009-04-11T07:01:00.000-04:00

I went home the other day. It's really not that far for me. An extended trip from the everyday. By home, I mean less the actual building where I grew up, but the area that I love so much. We, and I still to this day consider myself part of it, are those that live on an island, connected to the mainland by a thin bridge that skips over vast, troubled, rushing waters. If you want a euphemism for life then this one is very apt in description. You see... when I cross that thin bridge... I take a deep breathe, my heart rate slows, and a wealth of long dormant emotions filter through every cell of my body. It's a quiet hum that reverberates long after I've trudged back across the bridge. Sometimes, for days the feelings continue, making me feel like a boat tethered with a finite rope to the shore.

The title from this blog is the title from the compilation of letters of Ruth Moore, put together and edited by Sanford Phippen. I claim a distant relationship to her, since originally we hail off the same small Gott's Island, Maine. Her's was a direct line. Mine took generations and miles to get to me.

At her height, she was a New York Times Bestselling author, whose book Spoonhandle (published in 1946 by William Morrow & Co) was made into a movie. She was a steady writer, and prolific. She would take as long as it took to write a book. A contrast to today's "need it now" urge to feed the populace. And she wrote about the places and people she loved. She understood them to the point that they became so real it was as if we were gossiping about a relative. And the places so loved that we felt as if we were coming home.

I've spent some time on my current book, looking for just the feeling that I want to put into it. I didn't have that emotion that would make the reader understand the choices of the characters. I think I do now. Perhaps, it's in that finite rope tethering to shore that will hold them, the readers, til the end.

I can't believe I missed it...

2009-04-02T22:00:00.000-04:00

My DD pointed out that I missed a prime opportunity yesterday with KISA terminal illness blog. She said it should have been called... Knight-in-Shining-Armour-Syndrome. Or... KISAS... think about it people... got it?

Me, too!

My Heroes Have a Terminal Illness...

2009-04-01T21:39:00.000-04:00

I found out quite by accident. I had set up a Google Alert for my book The Three Truths of Katie Talmadge. When it came through my email there was a quip from the posting that included the title. It said... “Don’t make me into some sort of knight-in-shining-armor, Katie. Believe me, I’m not any closer to ..."
I froze. Naturally, I knew it was from my own book. But what surprised me was that something very similar had been in the book I just finished. My first thought was that I had plagiarized myself. I went back to the recently finished book and did a search & find on "knight". Sure enough, there were three references to it. The wording wasn't exactly the same as in Three Truths. Most of the references in the latest book were internalized thought designed to torture my hero. But I soon came to the realization that I had saddled all my heroes with the same terminal illness... KISA. Every single hero that I'd had over the years had been fighting to be anything but a knight-in-shining-armour, and every single one of them had been failing in their resolve to cure their KISA ailment. I didn't set out to be a repeater. I didn't set out give my heroes a terminal illness, but as I look back at all the books that I've loved over the years... the ones that were shelf keepers, I realized that all of them were KISA terminalists. Even the partials that I have going right now are the same. (But I think I'll leave the KISA words out next time.) In the meantime, who are your favorite KISA terminalists?