Page Readers

Join Bev Flaxington today during her new book release!

2012-01-17T08:06:00.000-08:00

Are you ready to make a fabulous book with amazing reviews a #1 bestseller? Join a bestseller book launch on Tuesday, JANUARY 17th – buy “Make Your SHIFT: The Five Most Powerful Moves You Can Make to Get Where YOU Want to Go” by Bev Flaxington @Amazon.com. Drive up Sales on this ONE day – 01/17. Get ready to make YOUR shift! (purchase comes many FREE GIFT BONUSES)

Here's a link to this fabulous new book!

Android Author App is now available!

2012-01-03T08:07:00.000-08:00

This is very exciting news - for authors and just about anyone selling anything online.

As we all know, the mobile market has exploded - and the way to reach this market is through a mobile app.

Until now, the cost of creating these apps has been expensive - meaning not everyone can afford to have one of their own.

But now, it's just become affordable! My very good friend and mentor, Aggie Villanueva has created a template that anyone can use. And she's got a programmer that will customize the template for you at an affordable price!

Click here to view more details

The iPhone App is coming soon! Be sure to subscribe on Aggies sales page to be notified when the iPhone app is available.

Click here to view more details

You also get a cool QR code - this is Aggies, which currently only works for the Android market. But when the iPhone app is ready, you'll have an iPhone QR code too!!!

Fantasy Author Hank Quense shares novella on Red Room

2011-10-03T20:57:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite fantasy authors has posted his novella at Red Room, a wonderful networking place for authors. Here's the link to Hank's post. Enjoy!

Chasing Dreams: a novella | Hank Quense | Blog Post | Red Room

And to all my wonderful guests of Page Readers - all you readers, writers and fans, stick around! Things are evolving once again with Page Readers and me :)

Thank you all for your continued support! Keep reading, keep writing and have a great day!

2011-08-26T08:27:00.000-07:00

Announcing the In Leah’s Wake Social Media Whirlwind Tour—WooHoo!

As part of this special promotional extravaganza sponsored by Novel Publicity, the price of the In Leah’s Wake Kindle edition has dropped to just 99 cents this week.

What’s more, by purchasing this fantastic book at an incredibly low price, you can enter to win many awesome prizes, including a Kindle, 5 autographed copies of the book, and multiple Amazon gift cards (1 for $100, 3 for $25, 5 for $10, and 10 for $5 – 19 in all)! Be sure to enter before the end of the day on Friday, August 26^th, so you don’t miss out.

To win the prizes:

Purchase your copy of In Leah’s Wake for just 99 cents
Fill-out the form on the author’s site to enter for prizes
Visit today’s featured event; you may win an autographed copy of the book!

And I can win $100 too if you vote for my blog over on the author’s website. The blog host that gets the most votes in this traffic-breaker polls wins, so please cast yours right after purchasing In Leah’s Wake and entering the contests!

The featured events include:

Monday, Blogaganza on Novel Publicity! We’re kicking-off on the Novel Publicity Free Advice blog. We’ll ask the writer 5 fun and random questions to get everyone talking. Leave a comment or question in response to the post, and you may win an autographed copy of In Leah’s Wake. Don’t forget to visit the author’s blog to enter for the other prizes!

Tuesday, Twitter chat with the author! Tweet with us between 4 and 5 PM Eastern Time, using the hashtag #emlyn. We’ll be talking with the author about her favorite books and best writing advice. Bring your questions about In Leah’s Wake and don’t forget to use #emlyn or to follow Terri @tglong. By joining in the tweet chat at the designated time, you may win an autographed copy of In Leah’s Wake. Don’t forget to visit the author’s blog to enter for the other prizes!

Wednesday, Google+ video chat with the author! Join our hangout between 12 and 3 PM Eastern Time to talk with the author and us via video chat. We’ll be gabbing about great books including In Leah’s Wake and about writing. Did you know that Terri is a creative writing instructor at Boston College? She’s got tons of good advice for aspiring writers. By joining in the Google+ video chat at the designated time, you may win an autographed copy of In Leah’s Wake. Don’t forget to visit the author’s blog to enter for the other prizes!

Thursday, Facebook interview with the author! Stop by Novel Publicity’s Facebook page and ask Terri questions. She’s chosen three of her favorite topics to talk about: writing, parenting, and gourmet cooking. Of course, you’re welcome to ask about In Leah’s Wake too. Leave a comment or question as part of the thread, and you may win an autographed copy of In Leah’s Wake. Don’t forget tolike Terri’s Facebook page or to visit her blog to enter for the other prizes!

Friday, Fun & games based on the book! We want to close this whirlwind social media tour with a gigantic bang, which is why we've set-up two interactive book-themed features on the author’s blog. You can take the official Facebook quiz to find out which In Leah's Wake character is most like you and learn how that character ties into the story. Then try out our crossroads story game. Throughout the course of the narrative, you'll have several decisions to make. What you choose will affect the outcome of the story. Play as either rebellious teenager Leah or the trampled peacemaker and mother Zoe. Leave a comment or question on any of Terri’s blog entries, and you may win an autographed copy of In Leah’s Wake. Don’t forget to check out the other give-away contests while you’re on Terri’s blog!

About In Leah’s Wake: The Tyler family had the perfect life – until sixteen-year-old Leah decided she didn’t want to be perfect anymore. While Zoe and Will fight to save their daughter from destroying her brilliant future, Leah’s younger sister, Justine, must cope with the damage her out-of-control sibling leaves in her wake. Will this family survive? What happens when love just isn’t enough? Jodi Picoult fans will love this beautifully written and absorbing novel.

A Twitterview with Terri Giuliano Long, author of In Leah's Wake

*twitterview conducted by Novel Publicity

You can tweet Terri @tglong. Please do! To learn more about twitterviews, go here.

An interview with author, Terri Giulano Long. Let's rocket it up the Kindle charts!

2011-08-24T08:25:00.000-07:00

Announcing the In Leah’s Wake Social Media Whirlwind Tour—WooHoo!

To win the prizes:

Purchase your copy of In Leah’s Wake for just 99 cents
Fill-out the form on the author’s site to enter for prizes
Visit today’s featured event; you may win an autographed copy of the book!

The featured events include:

An interview with Terri Giuliano Long, author of In Leah’s Wake

*Questions courtesy of BookBundlz

Terri's book was voted the 2011 book club pick of the year by the BookBundlz staff and community!

About Terri:

1. If you could have coffee with any 3 authors, living or dead, who would they be?

This is a tough question. Let’s see: Joan Didion – I love her work. The Year of Magical Thinking is a powerful book. I’d like to have coffee with her because she’s a brilliant, courageous woman, a true pioneer, and she’s led a varied and interesting life. I’d love to hear her stories.

Cormac McCarthy - although I’m not a fan of his early work – too macho for my taste - he hooked me with No Country For Old Men. I enjoyed the novel so much that I taught it in one of my classes. The Road is the most moving novel I’ve ever read. The man says to his son: "You have my whole heart. You always did.” That line has stayed with me – as have so many stark, tender moments. I’m in awe. I think I’d be too dumbstruck to talk. I’d probably just sit there.

Alice Hoffman – I love her work and I admire her ability to write a bestselling novel, year after year. It took me several years to finish In Leah’s Wake. To produce a book a year requires tremendous determination and discipline. You’ve got to be willing to sit down and write, whether you feel like it or not. That discipline helped her overcome breast cancer, after which she established the Hoffman Breast Center at the Mount Auburn Hospital in Cambridge, MA. She’s also written screenplays and children’s books. And friends who know her say she’s a lovely, giving person.

2. If you could only take one book, food item and drink with you to a deserted island what would they be?

Oh, goodness, another tough question! If I had to choose one book, I’d take the Bible. The stories are fascinating, with so many layers of meaning, and the imager and language are captivating. You can read the stories over and over and never grow tired. For nourishment, champagne and dark chocolate – I’d be tipsy and fat, but I would be smiling.

3. What are your secret indulgences?

Travelling and trying new foods - my husband, Dave, and I have had the great fortunate of visiting many beautiful, interesting places. I love ethnic foods and I’m fairly gutsy when it comes to trying new dishes. In Beijing, a few years ago, we went to a tiny restaurant with two students we met. The restaurant was a local spot, as opposed to a tourist trap, the menu written in Chinese, so they ordered for us. When the steaming bowl arrived, I dipped my chopsticks into the stew – and pulled out a frog. The head was gone, thank goodness, but the body was fully intact. I realize that a lot of people eat frog; this was actually green. I thought Dave would gag when I ate it. To his credit, he didn’t.

4. What about you would surprise your readers?

When they meet me, people almost always assume I’m in my thirties, so they’re surprised to learn that I have adult children and grandkids. I was 18 when I married Dave and he’s the love of my life. Like all couples, we’ve had our ups and downs, but we still enjoy each other’s company, we have fun, and we love being together. This surprises people.

5. What is your perfect day as an author?

Being in a quiet place, with beautiful scenery, and no phone or Internet. A few years ago, we spent a heavenly winter in Stowe, Vermont. I would sit at my desk, looking out at the mountains. Dave would be working in the other room, so I wasn’t alone; we’d work all day, then have dinner together, maybe a glass of wine by the fire. Now I’m actively involved with social media, which I really enjoy, but I long for a quiet day with no interruptions, no distraction.

6. If you could be any fictional character who would it be?

Sara Paretsky’s PI, V.I. Warshawski – I have a special place in my heart for police officers. They risk their lives for us, every day, and they’re the connectors, the glue that holds communities together. I’ve always admired Gail Mullen Beaudoin, a police officer in Chelmsford, MA. Gail brings strength, dignity and grace to a very difficult job. In a fictional character, V.I. is the closet I can come to Gail - two very strong, caring, centered women. Theirs are very big, wonderfully feminine shoes to fill.

7. What are the book(s) you are reading now?

The Trust, an engaging, fast-paced legal thriller by Sean Keefer, and A Walk in the Snark, a wise, sexy, very funny nonfiction read by Rachel Thompson, and Take One Candle Light a Room, an insightful, gorgeously textured literary novel by National Book Award finalist Susan Straight.

8. What was your favorite book as a teenager, and why?

Please don’t laugh – The Exorcist. By today’s standards it’s tame; then The Exorcist was a shocking literary sensation. I was a bit of a rebel when I was younger. I didn’t use drugs or take the risks Leah takes in my novel, but I hated being told what to do. Although I’ve always loved reading, I never got the full enjoyment from the classics we were forced to read in school. That The Exorcist was forbidden gave it a wonderfully sweet edge. I also loved Exodus, a glorious book by Leon Uris, about the birth of the nation of Israel. It was, to my mind, the first truly important book I ever read.

9. (Aside from your own) What book(s) have you read that you think are perfect for book clubs?

Elizabeth Strout’s heartbreaking novel Abide With Me would make a terrific book club selection. Her Pulitzer Prize winner, Olive Kitteridge, is one of my favorite books. Abide With Me, a moving story about a young minister struggling to raise two small children after the premature death of his wife, is so real and relatable on so many levels, and it raises thought-provoking questions about family and life.

About In Leah's Wake:

10. Where did the inspiration for your book come from?

Years ago, I wrote a series of feature articles about families with drug and alcohol-addicted teens. The moms talked candidly about their children, their heartbreaking struggles. Those stories stayed with me.

My husband and I have four daughters. Most families struggle during their children's teenage years. We’re no different - though, thank goodness, we experienced nothing remotely akin to the problems and challenges the Tylers face in the book. As a parent, I knew how it felt to be scared, concerned for your children’s welfare and future. These were the primary forces driving me to write this story.

My work with families, my personal experiences and core beliefs – all these things played on my conscious and subconscious mind, and ultimately emerged as this book.

11. They say every book written is the author telling a personal philosophy. What personal philosophy are you trying to get across?

The epigraph, from The Grand Inquisitor, says it best: “everyone is really responsible to all men for all men and for everything.” Hillary Clinton famously said that it takes a village to raise a child. I believe we must all do our part, be supportive members of the village. The Tyler family is far from perfect, but they love one another. Our flaws make us human and that humanity connects us. I very much hope that readers feel this sense of connection—and hope.

12. Writers are often surprised by something that happens in their book. Perhaps a character says or does something you did not think they would, or something you thought would only be a couple of paragraphs turns into 10 pages. What surprised you about your book?

The challenges Leah faces in the aftermath of her sexual awakening. In the first draft, she lost her virginity; in the context of her rebellion, that felt right. In later drafts, darker incidents emerged. As a mom, I found these scenes hard to write, but they felt very true to Leah’s character and experience.

About Terri's Writing Process:

13. What is your writing process like?

With the first draft of In Leah’s Wake, I had no idea where I was going – in writing programs, this sort of organic writing is usually encouraged. In the revision process, I looked for and developed themes. In Leah’s Wake is character driven, so outlining would have produced a different book. I think it’s helpful to know who we are, as writers, and what our goals are. For literary fiction, the goal is to develop and understand character. I hope I’ve done this adequately.
My novel-in-progress, Nowhere to Run, is a psychological thriller, so I’m approaching that differently. I’ve mapped a partial outline - plot points to use as markers - and writing the sections organically. While I recognize the benefits of outlining or plotting, sticking firmly to either feels limiting. Giving myself this freedom allows for possibilities. Of course, it also makes for a messier process.

14. What gets you in the mood to write?

When I first sit at my desk, especially if I’ve been away for a few days, I often feel blocked, the nasty editors on my shoulders heckling: A writer? Are you crazy? Nine times out of ten, I dig in; the writing may be choppy at first, but eventually I regain fluidity. If the demons are too loud to ignore, I read. Reading, like meditation or yoga, settles my mind, calms me. Soon I find my mind wandering to my story, and I can’t wait to start writing.

15. What advice would you give to aspiring authors?

Believe in yourself. I know wonderful writers whose first, second or third books, really good, strong books, were rejected. To deal with the rejection, boot your computer, day after day, when it seems as if no one cares, the stars misaligned – or to indie publish in a world that still privileges the traditionally published - you have to believe in yourself.
Writing is a lonely profession. Most of the time, we’re alone with our work. The loneliness can wear on you, and cause you to question yourself. A few supportive writer friends, supporting and encouraging you, can make all the difference.
Hold onto your dreams. You can make them happen. Don’t ever give up!

An excerpt from In Leah's Wake. Let's rocket it up the Kindle Charts!

2011-08-22T08:21:00.000-07:00

Announcing the In Leah’s Wake Social Media Whirlwind Tour—WooHoo!

To win the prizes:

Purchase your copy of In Leah’s Wake for just 99 cents
Fill-out the form on the author’s site to enter for prizes
Visit today’s featured event; you may win an autographed copy of the book!

The featured events include:

An excerpt from In Leah's Wake

The prologue and first chapter

". . . little heart of mine, believe me, everyone is really responsible to all men for all men and for everything. I don't know how to explain it to you, but I feel it is so, painfully even. And how is it we went on living, getting angry and not knowing?"

Fyodor Dostoevsky

The Grand Inquisitor

Prologue

March

Justine strikes a pose before the full-length mirror hanging on her closet door. Chin up, hands by her sides. She draws a breath. “My dear. . .” she begins, and stops mid-sentence. Wrinkles her nose. She’s got it all wrong. She’s too—Too stiff. Too grownup. Toosomething.

She rakes her fingers over her short dark hair, sweeping the bangs out of her eyes, tugs at the hem of her pink baby-doll pajamas. She’s scheduled to deliver the candidates’ address at her Confirmation Mass this afternoon. When she learned, six months ago, that she had been selected speaker, Justine was ecstatic. Now, the very idea of standing in front of the whole congregation, telling hundreds, maybe thousands, of people how she’s learned from her own family what it means to be part of God’s larger family makes her sick to her stomach.

She has no choice. She made a commitment.

She folds her hands primly, setting them at chest height on her imaginary podium, glances at her cheat sheet, rolls her lower face into a smile, and begins again. “My fellow Confirmation candidates,” she says this time. Justine crumples the paper, tosses it onto her bed. My fellow Confirmation candidates. What a dork. She sounds about twenty, instead of thirteen.

She screws up her face. “I can’t do this,” she says, wagging a finger at the girl watching her from the mirror. She would feel like a hypocrite.

Justine plods to the bathroom, pees, pads back to her bedroom. The forecasters are predicting snow, starting later today. A dismal gray stratus hangs over her skylight. Her room is dark, the air raw. Her sister’s blue and gold Cortland High sweatshirt lies in a heap at the foot of her bed. Justine pulls the sweatshirt over her head, retrieves the balled-up paper. With the back of her hand, she flattens it out, and returns to the mirror to practice.

As always, on first glance, the girl in the mirror takes Justine by surprise. She’s grown two inches since Christmas, isn’t chubby anymore, her belly flat, the clavicle bones visible now at the base of her throat. She pushes her bangs out of her pale, darkly fringed eyes. With her fingertips, she touches her cheeks. Her features have matured, her nose long and straight, like her mother’s, her cheekbones defined. She curls and uncurls her toes. She wears a size six shoe, a size and a half smaller than Leah. Her toes are long and slim, the nails painted blue.

Justine crushes the sheet of paper, tosses it in the trash, strolls to her window, raises the honeycomb shade. Spring feels a long way away, the yard empty, the trees bare. A rush of cold air streams in, under the sash. The air smells of snow. Justine presses her hand against the cool glass, the way she and her sister used to do on the windshield of their father’s car, when they were small. Stop, their father would scold. You’re making a mess. She smiles, remembering how Leah loved egging him on. She pulls her hand away from the glass, watches her prints disappear.

Justine wishes, sometimes, that she could disappear, too. Poof, just like the handprint.

Poof, just like her sister.

Chapter One: Just Do It

September

Zoe and Will Tyler sat at the dining room table, playing poker. The table, a nineteenth-century, hand-carved mahogany, faced the bay window overlooking their sprawling front yard. Husband and wife sat facing one another, a bowl of Tostitos and a half-empty bottle of port positioned between them. Their favorite Van Morrison disc—Tupelo Honey—spun on the player in the family room, the music drifting out of speakers built into the dining room walls.

Dog, their old yellow Lab, lay on a ratty pink baby blanket, under the window.

Zoe plucked the Queen of Hearts from the outside of her hand, and tucked it center. She was holding a straight. If she laid it down, she would win the hand, third in a row, and her husband would quit. If she didn’t, she would be cheating herself.

The moon was full tonight, its light casting a ghostly shadow across the yard. The full moon made Zoe anxious. For one of her internships in grad school, she’d worked on the psych ward at City Hospital, in Boston. On nights when the moon was full, the floor erupted, the patients noisy, agitated. Zoe’s superiors had pooh-poohed the lunar effect, chalked it up to irrationality, superstition. But Zoe had witnessed the flaring tempers, seen the commotion with her own two eyes, and found the effect impossible to deny—and nearly all the nurses concurred.

“Full moon,” she said. “I hadn’t noticed. No wonder I had trouble sleeping last night.”

Will set his empty glass on the table. With his fingers, he drummed an impatient tattoo. “You planning to take your turn any time soon? Be nice if we ended this game before midnight.”

“For Pete’s sake, Will.” Her husband had the attention span of a titmouse. He reminded her of Mick, a six year-old ADD patient she counseled—sweet kid, when he wasn’t ransacking her office, tossing the sand out of the turtle-shaped box, tweaking her African violets.

“What’s so funny?” he asked, sulking.

She shook her head—nothing, Mick—and forced a straight face.

“You’re laughing at me.”

“Don’t be silly. Why would I be laughing at you?”

He peered at his reflection in the window. Smirking, he finger-combed his baby-fine hair, pale, graying at the temples, carving a mini-pyramid at his crown.

“Nice do. Could use a little more gel,” she said, feeling mean-spirited the instant the words slipped out of her mouth. The poor guy was exhausted. He’d spent the week in California, on business, had flown into Logan this morning, on the red-eye. Though he had yet to fill her in on the details, it was obvious to her that his trip had not gone well. “Sorry,” she said. “Just kidding.” She fanned out her cards, hesitated for an instant, and laid down the straight.

“Congratulations.” Scowling, he pushed away from the table. “You win again.”

“Way to go, grumpy. Quit.”

“I’m getting water,” he said, tamping his hair. “Want some?”

Dog lifted her head, her gaze following Will to the door, yawned, and settled back down.

Her husband stomped across the kitchen, his footfall moving in the direction of the family room. The music stopped abruptly, and the opening chords of a Robbie Robertson tune belted out of the speakers. Zoe loved Robbie Robertson, “Showdown at Big Sky” one of her favorite songs. That didn’t mean that the entire state of Massachusetts wanted to hear it.

“Will,” she said, gesturing from the kitchen. “Turn it down. You’ll wake Justine.”

She waited a few seconds, caught his eye, gestured again. The third time was the charm.

Exasperated, she returned to the dining room, bundled the cards, put them away in the sideboard, and gathered the dishes. The toilet flushed in the half-bath off the back hall. Seconds later, she heard her husband rattling around the kitchen, slamming the cabinet doors. Last spring, Will had won a major contract for his company, North American Construction. Since then, he’d been back and forth nonstop to the West Coast, spending two weeks a month in San Francisco, servicing the client. Zoe hadn’t minded his traveling, at first. Over the past two years, with the glut of office and manufacturing space in the northeast, construction starts had dropped, and his sales had taken a serious hit, his commissions steadily dwindling. To compensate, initially they’d relied on their savings. In January, they’d remortgaged the house. When the California job arose, Will had jumped on the opportunity. He had no choice, especially with Leah headed to college next year. But the situation, lately, was brutal. Will hated traveling, hated flying, hated living out of a suitcase. And he resented missing Leah’s soccer games. Last November, as a sophomore, their daughter had been named Player of the Year on theBoston Globe All-Scholastic team. A week later, in his year-end summary, the sports reporter from the Cortland Gazette had called Leah the “best soccer player in the state.” The head coaches from the top colleges in the area—Harvard, Dartmouth, Boston College, BU—had sent congratulatory letters, expressing their interest. Will wanted to be home to guide her, meet the prospective coaches, help her sort through her options. Zoe didn’t blame her husband a bit. But it didn’t seem to occur to Will that his traveling disrupted her life, too. Last year, she’d developed a motivational seminar, called “Success Skills for Women on the Move.” Now that the girls were practically grown, the workshops were her babies. The extra workload at home, added to the demands of her fulltime job at the counseling center, left her with no time for marketing or promotion, and the workshops had stagnated. Zoe understood her husband’s frustration. It irked her when he minimized hers.

Will appeared in the doorway, a few minutes later, empty-handed. Will was tall, a hair shy of six-one. He’d played football in college, and, at forty-five, still had the broad shoulders and narrow waist of an athlete. Amazing, really: after eighteen years of marriage, she still found him achingly sexy. Crow’s feet creased the corners of his intelligent blue eyes and fine lines etched his cheekbones, giving his boyish features a look of intensity and purpose, qualities Zoe had recognized from the start but that only now, as he was aging, showed on his face.

After work, he’d changed into a pair of stonewashed jeans and a gray sweatshirt, worn soft, the words “Harvard Soccer Camp” screened in maroon lettering across the chest. Absently, he pushed up his sleeves, and peered around the room as though looking for something. “Zoe—” Normally, he called her Honey or Zo.

“I put the cards away.” She thumbed the sideboard. “You quit, remember?”

“Do you have any idea what time it is?”

She glanced at the cuckoo clock on the far wall. “Ten past eleven. So?”

“Where’s Leah?”

At the football game, with Cissy. “They’ve been going every week. Did you forget?”

“She ought to be home by now.”

“She’s only ten minutes late.” Their daughter was a junior in high school. They’d agreed, before school started this year, to extend her weekend curfew to eleven. “She’ll be here soon.”

Will stalked to the window, grumbling. Dog rose, and pressed her nose to the glass.

Their driveway, half the length of a soccer field, sloped down from the cul-de-sac, arced around the lawn, and straightened, ending in a turnaround at the foot of their three-car garage. In summer, the oak and birch trees bordering the property obscured their view. Now that most of the leaves had fallen, the headlights were visible as vehicles entered the circle.

“She has a game in the morning.” Will stretched his neck . His upper back had been bothering him lately, residual pain from an old football injury he’d suffered in college.

Zoe came up behind him, pushing Dog’s blanket aside with her foot, and squeezed his shoulders. “You’re tight.”

He dropped his chin. “From sleeping on the plane. Got to get one of those donut pillows.”

“You know Leah. She has no sense of time. I’ll bet they stopped for something to eat.”

“I can’t see why Hillary won’t set a curfew. Every other coach has one.”

“Relax, Will. It’s not that late. You’re blowing this out of proportion. Don’t you think?”

A flash of headlights caught their attention. An SUV entered the cul-de-sac, rounded the circle, its lights sweeping over the drive and across their lawn, and headed down the street.

Bending, Will ruffled Dog’s ears. “Reardon’s coming tomorrow, specifically to watch her. She plays like crap when she’s tired.”

The Harvard coach. She should have known. “So she doesn’t go to Harvard,” she said, a tired remark, fully aware of the comeback her words would elicit, “she’ll go someplace else.”

“There is no place else.”

No place that would give her the opportunities, the connections… blah, blah, blah. They’d been over this a million times. If their daughter had the slightest aspiration of going to Harvard, Zoe would do everything in her power to support her. As far as she could tell, the name Harvard had never graced Leah’s wish-list. It was a moot point, anyway. For the last two terms, Leah’s grades had been dropping. If she did apply for admission, she would probably be denied.

“Reardon has pull,” he offered, a weak rebuttal in Zoe’s opinion. “He’s been talking to Hillary about her. She can’t afford to blow this opportunity.”

Opportunity? What opportunity? “Face it, Will. She doesn’t want to go to Harvard.”

“If she plays her cards right, she can probably get a boat.”

Zoe opened her mouth, ready to blast him. He’d received a full football scholarship from Penn State, and dropped out of college. Was that what he wanted? A college drop-out in a couple years? Noticing the purple rings under his eyes, she held back. “You’re exhausted.” His plane had barely touched ground at Logan Airport when he was ordered to NAC’s corporate office in Waltham, for a marketing meeting. He hadn’t had time to stop home to change his clothes, never mind take a short nap. “Why don’t you go to bed? I’ll wait up.”

The look he returned implied that she’d lost it. “You think I could sleep?”

“For all we know, they had a flat.”

“She would have called.”

“So call her.” Duh.

“I did. I got voice mail.”

Shoot. “You know Leah. Her battery probably died.” She was grasping at straws. Leah was sixteen years old. That phone was her lifeline. Still, it could be true. It was possible. Right?

Leah had totally lost track of time. She and Todd had been hanging out at the water tower for hours, perched on the hood of Todd’s Jeep, drinking Vodka and OJ, admiring the beautiful night. This place was perfect, the most perfect place in the universe, maybe. Big sky, lots of trees. From here, they could see the whole town, just about—the river, the railroad tracks. An orchard. In the valley, lights began to blink out. Leaning back on her elbows, she gazed up at the heavens. “Look,” she said, mesmerized by the inky black sky, the billions and billions of stars. “The Big Dipper.” As she stared into space, time fell away, the past merging seamlessly with the future, this moment, up here, with Todd, the only reality there ever was or ever could be.

Todd took her hand, drawing her close, so close she could smell the spicy deodorant under his armpits. Just being with Todd Corbett made her feel dizzy all over. Todd was, by far, the most beautiful boy she had ever laid eyes on. His hair was long on top, short on the sides. He had full lips, and the most fabulous blue eyes, like, like crystals or something. A Romanesque nose, the exact nose she’d once told Cissy she’d die for, only now that she’d seen it on Todd, she realized that that particular nose was meant for a boy. Best of all, he had this incredible aura, all purple and blue, like James Dean or Curt Cobain.

She curled her legs under her, laid her head on Todd’s chest.

They met at a party, the Friday before school started. Todd had been on tour for the past two years, working as a roadie for a heavy metal band called “Cobra.” Leah knew he was back—that was all anybody was talking about—had recognized him instantly, from all the descriptions.

She couldn’t believe her luck. Todd Corbett! And alone! She’d heard he was hot. He was even better looking in person. Looking back, she couldn’t believe she’d been so brazen. She left Cissy in the lurch, sashayed right over to him, took a seat beside him, on the living room floor.

The movie he was watching was stupid. People clopping across a field like zombies, their arms outstretched. They reminded her of herself and Justine when they were little, playing blind. Even the makeup looked phony.

“What are you watching?” she asked.

“Night of the Living Dead. Flick’s a classic. Hey, haven’t I seen you someplace before?”

Maybe, though she couldn’t imagine where. Todd couldn’t possibly have remembered her from high school. She was only a freshman when he dropped out.

“Leah Tyler, right? You’re that soccer chick.”

The wind swished through the trees. Leah shivered and Todd shrugged out of his worn leather bomber, draped his jacket over her shoulders. He reached into the pocket of his jeans, retrieved a small plastic bag half-full of weed, began rolling a joint. He licked the edge of the paper, lit the joint, inhaling deeply, and handed it to her, the smell rich and exotic and sweet.

Leah had never smoked marijuana until she met Todd. She used to be scared, which was dumb: weed was totally harmless. (The first few times she smoked, she had to admit, she’d been disappointed.) She pulled, her chest searing, struggled to hold the ice-hot smoke in her lungs.

Suddenly, she was coughing, waving her arms.

“You OK, babe?” Todd rescued the joint. With the other hand, he patted her back.

Once she was breathing easily again, he laughed, a sweet laugh that left her feeling dignified, rather than cheesy or stupid. He pinched the joint between his index finger and thumb, took a hit to demonstrate, and brought it to her lips, holding it for her. “That’s it, babe. Good.”

They smoked the joint to its stub, and he showed her how to fashion a roach clip from twigs. Afterward, he offered to drive her home. “Don’t want you getting in trouble or nothing.”

“That’s OK,” Leah said dreamily. “I don’t have to go yet.”

Todd hopped off the hood of the Jeep, pulled a flannel blanket from the back of the truck, and spread the blanket on the grass, under a giant oak tree. Leah watched him smooth it out, his hands dancing, the whole world intensely colored, brilliantly alive. She heard the lonely trill of a cricket, calling from deep in the valley, smelled the damp autumn earth, felt the cool blue breeze on her face. Todd was gliding toward her now, floating on air. He scooped her into his arms, lifting her from the hood of his Jeep, and laid her on the blanket. And kissed her.

At eleven thirty, Zoe dialed Leah’s cell phone again. When Leah didn’t pick up, she tried Cissy, both times reaching voice mail. “I don’t believe those two,” Zoe said, infuriated. “I’ll bet they changed their ringers. The little devils probably know it’s us.”

“That’s your daughter for you,” Will huffed.

“She’s my daughter now?”

By eleven forty-five, Zoe was chewing her cuticles. And Will was pacing.

“This is it,” Will announced. “I’m calling the cops.”

“You can’t be serious. What do you plan to tell them?”

He opened his cell phone. “I can’t sit here, doing nothing.” He glared at the screen.

“You can’t call the cops. She’s forty-five minutes late. They’ll think we’re crazy.”

He clicked his cell shut, dug his keys out of his pocket. “Fine. I’ll find her myself.”

Find her? Where on earth did he plan to look?

“I’ll start at the high school.”

“The game was over hours ago.”

“I’ll drive by the Hanson’s.” He headed for the garage, Dog at his heels.

“And do what?” Cissy’s mom, a nurse, worked the early shift at St. John’s. Judi was probably in bed by now. He would frighten her if he knocked on the door. “Will? Answer me.”

He swiveled to face her. “Look for the car,” he snapped, and ushered Dog out the door.

Zoe stood in the mudroom, at a loss, staring blankly at the door her husband had closed. The house, she realized when she came to, was an icebox. She rooted through the hall closet, found a fleece jacket of Will’s, and pulled it on, kicked off her shoes, the ceramic tile cool under her bare feet, went to the bathroom, crossed the hall to the laundry, tossed a load of clean clothes into the dryer, and wandered back to the kitchen. She poured a glass of water, gathered the dishes they’d left on the dining room table, and emptied the uneaten chips into the compactor. She loaded the dishwasher. After she finished washing the counter, she flung the rag into the sink, and grabbed the cordless phone, so she would have a phone handy if Will or Leah tried to call.

A family portrait, commissioned last year, hung over the stone fireplace in the family room. For the photograph, the four of them had dressed in blue; their blue period, they’d joked when the photographer showed them the proofs. In the photo, Zoe is sitting on a stool, leaning toward the camera, Will standing behind her, flanked by the girls. Looking at the portrait, you’d never guess how hard it had been for the photographer to capture the shot, the kids squabbling, Will impatient, Zoe frustrated, both parents clenching their teeth. Restless, Zoe stepped down into the family room, sank into the oversized chair next to the fireplace, and curled her legs under her, clutching the phone.

Waiting, she tried to think positive thoughts. Leah’s responsible. She can handle herself. If the girls had been in a car accident, the police would have contacted them by now. As usual, her effort to avoid negative thoughts conjured them up. Something wasn’t right. Leah had been late a few times before, never like this. A half hour was one thing. Zoe often lost track of time herself. She would be at her office, transcribing her notes, look up, notice the clock, and realize she was supposed to have picked up one of the girls—at school, at the mall, at a friend’s—fifteen, twenty minutes before. She would rush around her office in a tizzy, collecting her folders and purse, cursing herself for being a neglectful mother, and drive like a madwoman to her destination. But an hour? She checked her watch. And fifteen minutes? This wasn’t like Leah.

She wondered if she had missed something. A signal. A hint. This morning, Leah, out of bed by seven, had moseyed into the kitchen, rubbing her eyes. Spotting the sauce pan on the front burner, she’d whined about having to eat oatmeal again. But she always whined when Zoe made oatmeal, which on certain days she found “revolting,” on others “disgusting” or “gross.” Zoe set the bowl in front of her. “Quit bellyaching,” she said. “Oatmeal is good for you.”

They were running late. So the girls wouldn’t have to rush to catch the bus, Zoe offered to drive them to school. Justine rode shotgun, while Leah dozed in the backseat. At two, Leah called Zoe at work to remind her that she and Cissy planned to go to the game. She was headed directly home after practice, Leah had said; she would fix dinner. At six thirty, when Zoe opened the back door, she smelled Leah’s spicy, cumin-laced chili. On the island counter, Zoe found place settings for her, for Will, for Justine, three glasses filled with ice water and lemon. Justine was upstairs in her room, doing her geometry homework. Leah had already left for the game.

Zoe closed her eyes, breathing deeply, attempting to center herself, and, counting backward from ten. . . eight, seven, six. . . summoned an image of her daughter. Leah’s face materialized, and her body slowly came into focus. Directing her energy outward, Zoe enclosed her daughter in a protective circle of light. Be safe, baby, she whispered. Be safe.

Will drove along country roads canopied by the boughs of towering oak trees, the winding streets bordered by stone walls erected in the late 1700’s, by the farmers who’d settled the town. In those days, the stone walls served as boundary markers, the average farm occupying fifty acres of land, most of it orchards. It was a hard life, Will thought, working eighteen hours a day, building walls, cultivating the land. He reached for Dog, on the passenger seat, ruffled her ears. “What do you say, Girl?” Dog cocked her head. “Was life harder then? Or harder today?”

The Hansons lived a mile outside the center, on a corner lot in a modest sub-division, built in the late-eighties, a neighborhood of center-entry colonials, garrisons, expanded Capes, set on cramped one-acre lots. Will slowed as they approached the Hanson’s newly remodeled Salt Box, he and Dog rubber-necking together. Onion lamps flanked the entrance and the garage doors; matching pole lights lined the drive. The house was dark, the driveway empty. Will turned left, onto the adjacent street, hoping to find a light on in the back of the house, in which case he would knock on the door. Nothing, not even a porch lamp. Frustrated, he rounded the block, passed by the front of the property again, in case he had somehow managed to miss Cissy’s car the first time, and headed for the high school, on the off-chance that the girls were still there.

The parking lot was dark when Will pulled in, the lights extinguished hours ago. He pulled down the sloping driveway behind the school, passing the rubberized track, where the soccer players practiced their sprints. He swung by the service entrance, then by the gym, doubled back, and circled the deserted lot, scanning the playing fields. At the ticket booth by football stadium, he parked, and just sat, thinking, Dog curled beside him on the passenger seat.

They’d had no idea, he and Zoe, how easy they’d had it when the girls were young. In their eyes, every little thing seemed like a crisis. They would glance at the window, catch three- year-old Leah zooming down the drive on her Big-Wheel, her legs outstretched, little hands reaching for the sky. In a panic, they would tear out of the house, always an instant too late, too far from their daughter to do anything except cross their fingers and watch. “Leah—” Will would holler, his stomach churning, “hold on.” And Zoe would cover her eyes, both parents envisioning the worst, the Big-Wheel rocketing off course, crashing into a tree. Later, the rope swing he’d hung by their deck replaced the Big-Wheel as the most obvious threat. They’d worried about random accidents, obsessed over tragedies they watched on News Center 5 or read about in the Globe: that the girls would fall into the hidden shaft of a well or drown in a neighbor’s backyard pool, that a stranger would kidnap one of their daughters when she was outside playing or taking a walk. It was tough being a parent, the welfare of their children utterly dependent on them, yet as long as they were vigilant, as long as they did their job, kept a trained eye on their daughters, their children would be safe. Now that she was older, they had no way of keeping tabs on their daughter. Once the car she was riding in rolled out of the drive, her fate was out of their hands. She could be anywhere, doing anything, with anyone. They had no way to protect her.

“What do you say, girl?” he said finally. “Doesn’t look like she’s here, does it?”

In a last ditch effort, he took another run by the Hanson’s place.

Zoe had fallen asleep clutching the portable phone, her head resting on the wing of her chair. He brushed a curl out of her face, touched her shoulder gently, so he wouldn’t startle her.

His wife blinked up at him. “Did you find her?”

He shook his head, dejected.

Dog nuzzled Zoe’s leg. Yawning, she scratched the dog’s head. “What time is it?”

“Close to one.”

“My God.” She pulled herself to an upright position. “What do you think is going on?”

Hard to say at this point, he told her. “She didn’t call, did she?”

Zoe shook her head in alarm. “You don’t think anything’s happened, do you?”

“We’d have heard by now.”

“I’m worried, Will. This isn’t like her.”

Will rubbed his neck, squeezing the trapezius muscles, hoping to release some of the tension. “I don’t know where else to look. Figured it’d be stupid to keep driving in circles.”

His wife attempted to stifle a yawn.

“You look beat,” he said. “Why don’t you go to bed? I’ll wait up.”

“You’re as tired as I am.”

“Go. I can sleep in. You’ve got to get up in the morning.”

“Maybe I should,” she said, shifting position. “Have to be up at six. Had to—” She paused, her glazed eyes fixed on the palladium window at the far end of the room. “Sorry.” She blinked. “I had to shift my schedule around. Workshop Sunday. Wake me when she comes in? You won’t forget?”

“I won’t forget.”

Will helped his wife out of her chair, walked her to the front staircase, kissed her, and told her to sleep well. From the foot of the staircase, he watched her climb the stairs and wander down the hall to their bedroom. When she closed the door, he went to the kitchen, filled a glass with spring water, brought the glass to the living room, sat on his leather recliner by the window, adjusted the back, and put up his feet. Dog lay on the floor, next to his chair. In ten minutes, she was snoring. He plucked an old issue of Sports Illustrated out of the pleated leather pocket on the side of his chair, flipped through. Unable to focus, he tossed it on the floor.

On the windowsill, in front of an eight-by-ten studio portrait of the girls, taken when Justine was a toddler, sat a framed snapshot of Leah. He picked up the photo. They’d been in Cortland for about a year when he snapped the shot. Leah was not quite seven, the youngest child on the under-ten team. Her uniform was two sizes too big, her baggie blue T-shirt skimming the hem of her shorts. The team was in the midst of a game, Leah racing to the net, blond ponytail flying, the ball jouncing in front of her, her tiny face focused, intense.

His daughter was an exceptional player, fast, agile, fiercely competitive, the best player from Massachusetts ever, some coaches said. Since she was a child, Will had been grooming her, encouraging her, fostering her talent. Youth soccer, traveling teams. Scholarship to Harvard—that was their plan. They’d practiced, strategized, prepared. Through the rain, the snow, he’d been right there with her. All in service to the crimson uniform she would one day wear. That was her dream, wasn’t it? She hoped to play pro. But Harvard first. Time and again, they’d discussed the importance of a good education, the one thing in life that can never be taken away.

Will pushed her, he knew. He wanted the best for his kids. He would do whatever it took to help them succeed, prevent them from repeating the mistakes he’d made. In the spring of his junior year, he’d left Penn State, surrendering a full scholarship, trading his education for a long shot at a music career. In one hour, the time it took to inform his dean he was quitting, walk to the registrar’s office and sign a couple of forms, he’d managed to screw up his life. Look at him: forty-five-years-old, stuck in a dead-end job, kissing the asses of people who ought to be working for him. He refused to sit back, watch Leah throw her life away. Kids needed guidance, a motivational coach to push them, keep them focused, drive them when they didn’t feel like practicing, pump them up when they lost confidence, spur them on when they wanted to quit.

Will closed his eyes. God help him. Tell him he hadn’t pushed her away.

Keep the Momentum, guest post by author Martin T. Ingham

2011-08-17T08:23:00.000-07:00

A writer's work is never done. Those of us who pursue a life weaving fiction of all sorts must accept this on several levels if we ever wish to succeed. Completing a novel and getting it published is only half the battle. Promotion is the other side of the equation, which can make or break you.

Self-promotion takes a lot of time when you don't have deep pockets. Time and money can be interchangeable in this aspect, as the more you can afford, the less you have to do on your own. The right internet ad might sell a thousand books, but it is liable to cost a thousand dollars in the process. Most of us don't have that kind of money to kick around, so we've got to improvise.

Creating new material is the writer's primary job, so in my opinion it's best to focus on that first and foremost. You need to have something new in the pipeline, so your readers will have something else to look forward to. From experience, I've learned that one story is not enough to land you a fan. It's enough to hook them, get them interested, but if you can't entice them with the prospect of more they'll lose interest. This is why writers must be prolific after they find initial success.

Promotion and creation aren't mutually exclusive, and it is possible to achieve both at the same time. One way is to write something related to your previously released works, a sequel or a short story spin-off. Draw readers in with hints and rumors about the new material. Post to a blog or a message board you frequent, telling people of your new project. This will stir interest in your existing stories, while encouraging you to create more.

Another good way to acquire readers is to give them "proof" for little or no cost. That was the impetus behind the online version of my latest release, West of the Warlock. During the editing process, the publisher offered me two different options; we could either sell it as a regular novel, using a single short story for promotional purposes, or we could release a significant portion of the book in serialized format online, for free. I chose the latter, because it will serve as a prime promotional tool while giving readers the option to buy the full product after they enjoy the freebies.

Though writers may instinctually abhor the idea of giving their work away, it is a necessity, and in this digital age the cost of doing that is minimal. Finding the right venue to display your work can mean the difference between selling stories and keeping them to yourself. Don't feel that you have to hide work until it sells. So long as you have something else in the works, it's okay to hand out full-length samples. Get it out there, and see what happens!

Martin T. Ingham is the author of numerous Science Fiction & Fantasy novels, including The Guns of Mars, Prisoner of Time, and The Rogue Investigations. His short stories have appeared in various print anthologies and online venues. Influenced by the greats of speculative fiction (Asimov, Heinlein, Herbert, etc...) he utilizes his unique wit and wisdom to craft adventures for today's readers with a voice all his own. You can learn more about him, and his various works at his blog: http://martiningham.blogspot.com

Get Your Kindle eBook Done by Shelly Hitz is half price!

2011-08-14T11:19:00.000-07:00

Click Here to "Get Your Kindle eBook Done!"

Get Your Kindle eBook Done!

As writers, I think we sometimes overlook the value of eBooks. We want to see the tangible hard copy that we can hold in our hands. We want that book that we can show to our friends and family and say, "Look! I wrote this!" Who could blame us? Everyone wants to see the fruits of their labor. However, eBooks are very fruitful. They are most certainly different from physical books, and take a bit of effort, but if we have already written our book, why not go ahead and bring in the extra sales?

Kindle is not only a publishing platform, but it is also a valuable way to market our books! Amazon does all of the marketing, advertising, and sales, as well as handling refunds if that comes up. All we have to do is format the books that we have already written! It would be pretty silly to pass up that opportunity, and Shelley Hitz has put together a wonderful product for helping us get our books Kindle ready!

Her package entitled "Get Your Kindle eBook Done!" includes a report that includes information about the benefits of publishing an eBook, advice about formatting and submitting your eBook, ideas to help promote your eBook, and tons of other valuable information. As well as a video that walks you step by step through the formatting process, and a template that is already set up in the correct format for you! She includes a step by step guide to help you ensure that your eBook is successful, not only in Kindle, but other eBook markets as well.

I don't think that I could ever say enough positive things about this product. It helped me to go from absolutely zero knowledge about formatting and publishing on Kindle to being able to format all of my documents for Kindle with no problems whatsoever. I would have never been brave enough to attempt publishing an eBook without the information Shelley put together in this product. I highly recommend it to anyone who has ever written book. Get your Kindle eBook done today.

Beverly Flaxington, Understanding Other People

2011-08-11T08:46:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to share this with you all as a reminder that with patience and persistence, you too can be on TV.

Beverly Flaxington was my guest on the Page Readers Blog Talk Radio show back in October 2009 to discuss her book "Understanding Other People."

Her book is a great read, by the way. I liked it so much, and she liked my review of it so much, that she used it on the back cover.

Beverly was just featured on NECN.com to discuss the debt crisis and how important it is that we all learn to understand each other in times like these.

Watch this at NECN
Congratulations Beverly!

Shalini Boland, author of "Hidden"

2011-08-06T16:38:00.000-07:00

Shalini Boland delivers a fantastic paranormal romance in Hidden, with vivid characters and a story that delivers you to the past and the present.

I thoroughly enjoyed this story. I’m not usually a fan of the vampire genre, but Hidden is not your typical vampire story. Her ability to tell two stories that are at first separate, then come together through the passage of time had me hooked. I couldn’t put it down.

Boland creates her own mythology in a far away land, then brings us to the present in vivid detail. At first I had trouble with the slang used by the present day characters, then I realized how important this was to her character development. Fantastic. And her ability to capture the dialect of the characters from long ago was perfect. She brought them together in a way that meshed both stories together, keeping it interesting to the very last.

In the end, she leaves the reader wanting more, and the door open to a sequel. Personally, I can’t wait!

Shalini was able to share more with me in this interview:

First, a little about Shalini Boland

Before kids, I was a singer songwriter signed to Universal Music. But writing fiction has taken over my life and now I’m a mother of two noisy boys and an author of teen novels. I write the kinds of books I love to read - gripping adventures with a sprinkling of romance and a spattering of horror.

Where did the idea for Hidden come from (what inspired you?)

I’ve loved vampire novels ever since I read the Anne Rice books in the early nineties. The inspiration for Hidden came from a newspaper article about a family who had to leave their house due to a bat infestation. There was a local outcry as the bats were protected by law and the family could no longer live there. I thought: Hmm, bats in the attic … how about vampires in the basement.

I used to live in a very old house in London which had a large basement, very much like the one in my novel. I was always terrified of going down there and I can still remember the musty smell and the grey stone walls. It wasn't hard to imagine all kinds of terrible things lurking down there - awful creatures, ghosts, things bricked up in the wall...

Is this your first (second,third) vampire genre novel?

This is my first vampire novel, but I have books two and three

planned out and partly written.

What other books have you written?

My latest teen novel, Outside, is a post-apocalyptic romance thriller set in the near future where everyone lives in closed-off communities behind perimeter fences. When Riley’s sister is murdered, she swears to track down the killer and goes out beyond the perimeter where the UK is lawless and dangerous.

How/when do you write? Do you have a schedule, routine?

I never have enough time. I don’t know what’s going on in my life, but I seem to be getting busier and busier doing nothing. I need to get back to a proper schedule. Once my youngest son starts school later this year, I should be able to devote my mornings to writing.

At the moment, I just grab a few minutes here and there.

When I am lucky enough to get a few hours to myself, there’s no set-in-stone process. I usually just sit down and start typing. I like to get the whole story down and then, once I have the bones, I’ll go back over it a gazillion times to edit.

Do you write on a computer? Tablet? Pen and Paper?

I like to write on an A4 pad and then transfer it to my laptop. There’s something more friendly and less business-like about writing on paper - the pressure’s off!

Do you have a day job - what is it?

I’m a mother of two young boys and I try to grab rare moments of peace to write. Otherwise, I scribble with the madness going on around me.

Tell us about your family life - where you live, what you all do for fun.

The boys go stir crazy indoors and the noise levels are ridiculous, so we try to get out as much as possible. Luckily we live ten minutes from the coast and twenty minutes from the forest, so there are plenty of opportunities to let them loose! (I usually stick a notebook in my bag for while they’re climbing trees or building wigwams).

Are you working on something new?

I’m writing Thicker Than Blood book two in the Marchwood Vampire Series. People are emailing and messaging me daily to ask when it will be published. I don’t have a date yet, but I’m hoping it will be later this year.

Do you have an author who inspired you to write?

There is no one author who inspired me. I’m in awe of those authors who can weave multiple plot lines with ease, whose characters evoke strong emotions and who can keep you guessing till the end. A few of my favourites are Carlos Ruis Zafon, Douglas Kennedy, Stephenie Meyer, Suzanne Collins and Paullina Simons.

Do you have a favorite author to read? Favorite book?

Paullina Simons’ Bronze Horseman trilogy and Jean M Auel’s Clan of the Cave Bear series. I’ve read them more than once and I’m sure I’ll read them again – it feels like chatting with old friends

Where is your favorite place to visit/vacation?

The Amalfi Coast in Italy. Ravello is heaven on earth and Positano is divine. Everywhere you look you see beauty – lemon groves, wrought iron balconies, blue green mountains. Just gorgeous. I want to be there now.

Favorite way to blow off steam/exercise/have fun?

I’d love to say something really adventurous and extreme here, but it’s probably just spending time out and about with my family and friends. And I like a game of tennis.

Visit Shalini online at http://www.shaliniboland.co.uk/

Thank you Shalini for sharing Hidden with Page Readers

Facebook for Authors by Shelley Hitz

2011-08-01T15:22:00.000-07:00

Another great author marketing tool by Self Publishing Coach, Shelley Hitz is Facebook 101 for Authors. Here Shelley has given us the step by step method to build your Facebook audience in as little as 15 minutes a day. Using screen shots, Shelley walks you through the process necessary for creating a powerful marketing tool for your book.

Facebook 101 for Authors will help any author build awareness using the power of social media. After you’ve built your page, be sure to send me a link so I can “like” you on Facebook!

Keep the marketing motion moving forward, learn how to promote your work on the worlds largest social media platform today!

Page Readers is going Mobile!

2011-07-29T06:00:00.000-07:00

Page Readers is now available on Stitcher, a mobile radio station available on your iPad, Smartphone and online.

This will expand our audience and give our guests more exposure for their work. To listen, use the link above and create your free account. Stitcher has lots of stations covering all kinds of topics. So besides putting Page Readers on your favorite list, I'm sure you'll find much more to listen to!

To get Stitcher on your mobile device, use the App Store and search Stitcher.

With Stitcher you'll be able to listen to Page Readers on the go!

Live Author Chat with Dr. Barry Sears, author of "The Zone Diet"

2011-07-28T07:07:00.000-07:00

Join me on Thursday, July 28th at 6pm Pacific when I host a Live Author Video Chat presented by Book Candy Studios.

My guest will be Dr. Barry Sears, author of "The Zone Diet," and his latest release, "Toxic Fat. When Good Fat Turns Bad."

These live author chats are like attending a book signing at your local book store without leaving home! You'll be able to see the Dr., ask him questions via the chat room and watch the trailer of his latest book. And - there might even be some freebies!

To use the widget below, click on the countdown (the numbers) just before the show starts. On the next screen, click on the Guest tab and enter your name in the box that says "Guest" and click enter.

I look forward to seeing you there!

2011-07-25T15:37:00.000-07:00

Sandra Sanchez interviews Nina Marie Gardner author of Sherry and Narcotics. Read Sandra's review here.

Q. Hi, Nina, thanks for talking with us about your work. I'll start with that most common combination question: When did you start writing? And what inspired you?

A. Since I was little, I always kept journals and read voraciously. Being immersed in a book has always been the ultimate comfort and escape for me - and the desire to write came naturally out of this love of stories and storytelling. I always think of that Joan Didion quote from "The White Album" - "We tell ourselves stories in order to live..."

Q. Do you plan to write a sequel to Sherry and Narcotics?

A. Well, I've already written the prequel, my first (unpublished) novel, "I'm Not This Girl." It's basically the story of Mary in LA when she's fresh out of college, except her name is Lulu and she has this dog named Trouble. It explores her first real love, with a screenwriter named Dean, and her initial descent into alcoholism. It's a lot more playful and funny than "Sherry & Narcotics" - I only really showed it to this one agent and then spent a heartbreaking and frustrating three years doing rewrites for him, but in the end it just went nowhere. I love it though - I'm thinking I should dust off the original draft and send it around again.

I've also written a hefty chunk of the pre-prequel - the story of an American girl who winds up at an all boys boarding school in England , based on my experiences as an English Speaking Union Scholar at Clifton College in Bristol when I was 17. That was the beginning of my love affair with the UK - and English Literature. For my A-levels I studied Wordsworth and Hardy and DH Lawrence with this teacher Dave Lambert, who was fresh out of Oxford - I had a mad crush on him, of course. He was fairly eccentric and his classroom was filled with posters of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. One class the two of us wound up performing Adelaide 's lament from Guys & Dolls.

The sequel to Sherry & Narcotics is something I've just started fleshing out - so I can't really say too much about it, except that it's about friendship and fame.

Q. What are some of your all time favorite books? Films? Plays?

A. My all time favorite books include the poems and letters of John Keats, everything by F. Scott Fitzgerald including his letters, and especially the short story collection edited by Malcolm Cowley - I love some of those lesser known stories like "Magnetism" and "Two Wrongs" and "The Bridal Party." And everything by Jean Rhys, she was a genius. I also love Anais Nin, an almost forgotten writer named Margery Latimer who wrote two stunning novels, "We are Incredible" and "This is my Body" which are next to impossible to find - I read one in the Yale Library, and bought one on eBay with a large chunk of my student loan money that supposed to go to my tuition. I love "Lay Down in Darkness" by William Styron and everything by Richard Yates. I remember once I discovered Yates wrote a screenplay for "Lay Down in Darkness" and that just blew my mind. What I would give to read that!

Contemporary writers I love include Gwendoline Riley - I think her books "Cold Water" and "Joshua Spassky" are just perfect. Also Helen Walsh's "Brass", my publisher/editor at Future Fiction London, Hillary Raphael's "I love Lord Buddha" and "Ximena." I am in awe of Ruth Fowler, who I just discovered - she writes for The Fix and published a memoir about being a stripper in New York .

I just saw the best film I've seen in a long time, Fishtank - it was absolutely beautiful, seamless, not a false moment in it. Also "Jesus' Son" is one of the best adaptations of a book, ever. And this film from awhile back, Angel Baby, about two schizophrenics who fall in love. Recently a friend recommended a good bankrobber flick because I was feeling broke - Mesrine I and II, which were awesome. Anything that fills my dreams with Vincent Cassel is the bomb.

Plays, I think Annie Baker is a genius. I've always loved Jon Robin Baitz (and thanks to my mom, I'm now hooked on his tv show Brothers & Sisters), Christopher Durang, Albert Innaurato. Also Mark Ravenhill's stuff is always exciting. And a New York playwright named Tom Donaghy - his play "Down the Shore" will always be one of my favorites. And Jonathan Marc Sherman - I'm really looking forward to seeing his new play Knickerbicker at the Public.

Q. Besides writing what are your interests?

A. Now that I'm old and boring and my wild party days are behind me, I'm really into running. I'm planning to do a marathon, and I pretty much enjoy everything outdoors - hiking, camping, all that robust and healthy stuff. I enjoy cooking, but I think I might be a little too experimental for a lot of people's tastes. I'm also very interested in working with young women at risk, especially those who might be struggling with alcoholism, addiction or eating disorder issues. I know it probably sounds massively trite and preachy and corny, but what matters most to me these days is being of service, and using my experience to hopefully help others.

Helping others does not sound corny to me. Good for you and thank you for telling us about yourself and your work.

Twitter 101 for Authors by Shelley Hitz

2011-07-20T15:03:00.000-07:00

Hello to all you wonderful authors who’ve been my guest at Page Readers. I hope you are all doing well and the wheels of your promotional campaign are moving along smoothly.

Many of you know that I am an active fan of twitter. I say active fan, because I am active on twitter and a fan of all its uses. As a promotion specialist, I use twitter to not only share my own information, like news of upcoming or recorded shows or new reviews posted to the Page Readers blog, but also to learn new things and meet new people.

I’ve met many of my guests on twitter, by using hash tags (#) to search topics or reading a re-tweeted post that caught my attention and led me to a new author. Once you get into the habit of using twitter, it can be a very powerful tool.

Someone else I met on twitter is Shelley Hitz. As a Self Publishing Coach, Shelly has many wonderful products available to help authors navigate the web in search of their own success.

One tool she has produced is especially for authors who want to learn how to use twitter to successfully build their own audience.

Twitter 101 for Authors is a short, sweet and incredibly powerful tool created to help authors tap into the power of twitter without being overwhelmed, or worse, looking like a rookie tweeter. Learn how to master the world of micro-blogging quickly, grow your audience and increase your book sales.

And connect with me on twitter! I love to re-tweet!

The Kitchen Daughter by Jael McHenry

2011-07-16T14:12:00.000-07:00

Review by Sandra Sanchez

The Kitchen Daughter
byJael McHenry
Gallery Books
ISBN#978-1-4391-9169-9

Promotional materials say that the central question of this novel is “what does it mean to be normal?” As someone who doesn’t have a clue what “normal” means I was pleased that the author seeks to define “normal” in a manner that includes all kinds of people. The primary character, Ginny Selvaggio, takes a little getting used to but she grows on you.
The premise is that she is afflicted with a “syndrome” known as Aspergers but when asked by others what she “has” she responds : “A Personality.” Go Ginny.

The book deals with how people, namely Ginny, her sister Amanda, family friend Gert and Gert’s son Daniel deal with the untimely deaths of loved ones. For Ginny coping means cooking. Ginny loves to cook. She likes the structure of recipes and has an obsessive compulsive’s attention to minute details that help her identify and savor every taste combined within them. The other thing that begins to happen in the kitchen after her parents are killed in a car crash is the appearance of ghosts. When Ginny follows the recipes left by dead people, mother, grandmother, an unknown woman named Evangeline, and follows them perfectly, the smells of the foods bring forth the ghosts, briefly and apparently only once, so as she figures out how this works she realizes she needs to have her questions ready. No small anxiety there!

Ginny also seeks recipes for “being normal” in a book she calls “the normal book” with clippings from newspaper advice columnists and she checks it from time to time as a guide to how best to assess her own behavior. She also does research online and in her parents’ library where she sometimes goes to escape interpersonal encounters she knows she cannot handle. In a book titled: An Anthropologist on Mars which she discovers is a collection of essays about people damaged in various ways, she reads an essay by a woman who has invented for herself a hugging machine, something to crawl into to feel loved. Ginny is jealous, averse to touch, she nonetheless needs it. To feel loved, to calm down, she frequently goes into her parents closet to feel surrounded by their clothing. So, yes, Ginny suffers but she also has a get real sense of humor. She looks up a definition of Aspergers on an online site which lists various symptoms including this one:
A tendency to obsess on particular topics that may not be of interest to others, she is reminded of “everyone I have ever met” and remembers a boy in kindergarten who always talked about caterpillars, a girl in 4th grade obsessed with butterflies and the girl in college who only talked about beer and sex.

Eventually Gert, A Romanian Jewess from Cuba who came to Philadelphia where she met Ginny’s mother, manages to get Ginny out of the closet and out of the house to help her cook at the Jewish Temple for families who are in mourning. So cooking does indeed become the way she connects to, instead of escaping from, other people.

This book could be labeled “heartbreaking” just as Ginny could be labeled “damaged” but in truth the book was also uplifting with a realistic blend of sad and happy endings, and Ginny often made me smile. She definitely has “personality.”

Interview with author Uyen Nicole Duong

2011-07-09T08:57:00.000-07:00

Uyen Nicole Duong, author of Daughters of the River Huong
interviewed by Sandra Shwayder Sanchez
After her fabulous review of Daughters of the River Huong, Sandra felt there was more to the story of author Uyen Nicole Duong.

Enjoy!

"As an attorney and fiction writer myself I am very interested to know how your legal practice has influenced your writing."

From reading about you, I see that we have a lot in common. I admire you for having successfully combined law and art, especially when you started your law career late in life. The law practice has affected my creative writing in two concrete ways: 1) It keeps me from writing fiction full force (I don’t even have the time to seriously look for a literary agent, so I have never had one); and 2) My protagonists are female lawyers because that's what I know best. There is usually a “law setting” for my novels. In "Daughters of the River Huong," the description of the international practice in a developing nation is authentic. In "Mimi and Her Mirror," the facts imported from the big-firm practice are also authentic, and the legal and ethical dilemma faced by the protagonist are grounded in real law. I think that life experience coming from the law can become a rich texture of factual background for fiction writing. But, as a fiction writer, I subscribe to the theory of creative writing advocated and taught by Pulitzer-winner Robert Olen Butler, who opines that great creative writing must be subconsciously driven. Yet, in a law practice and in persuasive legal writing, nothing can be subconsciously driven. Everything must be planned and carefully gauged. So in my fiction writing, I have to watch against the tendency of the legal mind to rationalize and plan. I think that in so many ways, the two fields are incompatible. I wrote about this incompatibility in an essay titled "Law is Law and Art is Art and shall the two ever meet?" published by the University of California. If I had not been an immigrant, I might not have chosen law as a career, but since I did, I seek beauty in the pursuit of justice the same way I pursue art.

"Your writing is filled with beautiful visual imagery so, even if I didn't know, I'd guess you were also a painter. What was your inspiration to begin painting? Who are some of your favorite artists?"

I have never studied art or art history, although I read a lot, and I am completely self-taught. My visual art has never been "cooked" through the art schools or the galleries.

My favorite is Henry Matisse. Initially, he studied law. I construe his art to be both a rational depiction of life and a subconscious pursuit of beauty. Matisse’s world was spontaneous, bright, and animated. He was also bold and vivid with colors. Matisse brought the decorative style of the East to European art, and he also broke traditions in making drawing and painting on a flat surface accepted in Europe. Painting on a flat surface (i.e., no multi-dimensional perspective or depth) has traditionally been "the way" for Eastern art. I think that without Matisse breaking down conventions, all of the experiments such as my self-taught style would have been thrown in the trash by the visual art establishment.

I never imagined myself as a painter growing up. In contrast, writing has always been there since childhood. But painting came naturally because I have always liked colors and shapes. In 1975, fresh to America from the fall of Saigon, I considered a career as a fashion designer and then changed my mind because I did not want to study the sewing machine (first lesson for a freshman in fashion design then.) I started painting more seriously in the late 1990s, when I took a break from law in order to write full time for a year (a luxury!). My "Vietnam" trilogy of novels was written during this period of time. The huge novel of more than a thousand pages was then broken down into 3 books during my LLM residence at Harvard Law School and the year after (when I was senior counsel for Locke Liddell LLP in Houston). In writing, once I have an impulse to follow a plot, I see images, colors, and shapes in my head as well as hearing sounds. I then write what I see and hear in my head. So I am not sure which started first: writing or painting, during the period of time when I wrote the trilogy.

As an untrained visual artist, I just do it and never worry about the results. In the beginning, I used watercolor, and that was natural. I also avoided dilution of watercolor in order to achieve the texture similar to oil or acrylic. That means I used watercolor coming straight from the tube. Yet, I diluted acrylic with so much water and did acrylic on paper, such that the color and the lack of thickness feels and looks like silk painting. In the early 2000s, I attended a private lecture on "L'art Brut" ("Raw Art” or “Art of the Untrained") and realized that this form of outsiders' art seemed to be what I had been doing. Since then, I have come up with something called "Art in Frugality."

"Art in Frugality" means that, in addition to traditional media (oil, acrylic, canvas, etc.) I use whatever I can put my hands on when I have the urge to paint in the middle of the night or during breaks from my law work: I grab pen, pencil, markers, crayons, even fingernail polish (a form of enamel) left-over eyeshadows (a form of pastel chalk), or lipstick (a form of soft crayon). I use artists’ brushes, fingernail polish brushes that come with the bottle (a terrible brush), or my fingers to create images on typing paper, cardboard and sometimes magazine or newspaper pages (where the printed words become the texture for the newly created piece.) The creation is unplanned and spontaneous. I usually limit the creation to about less than an hour and often do not what what I want to paint until at least about 20 minutes into the process. Then I will use the remaining time to develop it and will stop before the hour (This is also the result of working in the law full-time--no time to paint otherwise!) I think the Italians have something analogous, called "Alla Prima" or direct painting, although it is much more elaborate and part of formal art training, not my “Art in Frugality.”

"I know you started writing at a young age. What inspired you to start? Who were your favorite authors?"

Born to Vietnamese parents who were professors of literature and languages, I had no choice but to fall in love with Vietnamese poetry as I learned how to read and write. At our house, my mother had tons of notebooks in which she copied, in her own handwriting, famous Vietnamese poems of her time (i.e., her high school and college days). My father also introduced me to French and English at the same time, around age 6. I learned "this is a table," "this is a chair," "C'est une chaise," "c'est une table," etc. And then I proceeded on to memorize lines from Alphonse Daudet’s “The goats of Mr. Seguin” because my father – my tutor – had a “flight of literature.” With that kind of upbringing, so early in life, I did not need any inspiration or a 'breaking point" into writing, although I remember I began writing “free style”at the age of 6 (i.e. writing whatever I wanted to write and not as an exercise from school).

My favorite authors are: 1) Graham Greene; 2) Albert Camus; 3) Pat Conroy; 4) Isabelle Allende; 5) Vladimir Nabokov (I adore his prose; and I kind of like the prose of Anais Nin, but I do not adore her fiction or diary; I just find Nin’s work to be almost pointless, despite her beautiful prose. I have to say John Steinbeck as well. Interestingly, from my parents, in war-torn Vietnam of the 1960s, I learned to love Mark Twain's Tom Sawyers. The adventure tales of Mark Twain fascinated me and I used to day-dream that I would go with Tom and Huckleberry Finn and that I would cook rice under the wind, on stormy water, while they did their thing. My brother was named “Tom” after Mark Twain’s character, but of course we never cruised the Mississippi river or anything like that. But, we had real-life adventures with the Vietnam War during the Tet Offensive. As children, we were not capable of understanding the danger of war. We took it as part of life like any other Vietnamese. I brought this “life adventure” experience into my novels. I grew out of Mark Twain as I grew up.

I also like a Vietnamese writer named Khai Hung (his pen name) who wrote in the 1930s and 1940s). Nobody has heard of him here,, except the Vietnamese of certain generations (such as my parents). I love Khai Hung’s romanticism and idealism and his gentle prose, which also contained ideas that could change the entire way of life of his time. In some way, Khai Hung reminds me of Beethoven – how can the tender, lyrical nature of something like “Fur Elise” be authored by the same person who wrote those dark and grand sonatas, and those heroic, majestic symphonies and choruses that could move you to tears or shake up your entire being into a frenzy of… revolution! One day, I will sit down and translate for the American public a short story and a novel by Khai Hung, although translation of literature is what I fear and dislike the most.

I read that you have some ideas about combating the global problem of human trafficking. Can you share some of those ideas & how you would implement them?"

I did not just have some ideas. I worked on the “anti-human trafficking initiative” for five years as a one-woman project. There were a few University of Denver law students who assisted me, piecemeal. During the fall of 2010, when I was researching comparative education in Europe (another one-woman project), I received an email from the student editor of the Seattle University’s Journal of Social Justice. She solicited my article – an ongoing draft about my anti-human trafficking initiative, summarized and posted on the SSRN. Unfortunately, my research boxes could not be located at my home institution, so while in Europe I ended up rewriting the draft into a different form, this time as a “speech paper” based on a seminar presentation I conducted in Washington, D.C. for law students of Franklin Pierce who took a field trip to D.C.for an overview of international criminal justice. The “speech paper” will be published this month, in the Journal’s special issue on child prostitution.

In the article, I propose 9 measures to help eradicate human trafficking. There are 8 legal solutions to be implemented, together with explanation of the legal theories in support thereof.) I then present a non-legal solution based on the reality that domestic and/or international non-governmental organizations (NGO/INGO) are currently shouldering the mission of fighting human trafficking. To share those proposals with you and the internet readers now would be to repeat what’s in the article, which is about 84 pages long, supported by about 180 end notes. I would rather just refer you and readers to the Journal’s summer edition. I like to use the time and space, instead, to comment on the Journal and the state of legal advocacy in academia.

I can’t say enough about the Journal. It is not your typical law review. For example, the Journal features social justice artworks on the cover, and partners with writers to bring forth articles that respond to society. The editing done by law students is quite intense like that of a peer-review journal, yet the format is flexible. It is the type of place I would want for the publication of my legal writing and advocacy, especially if the Journal will also reach non-lawyers and relief workers, because my article is about people and their plights. The project started because I cried over a TV network story showing Vietnamese children in Cambodia, known today as the “land of child prostitution.” The project, or the resulting article, is called the Southeast Asia Story as the typical manifestation of this global ill -- the sexual use of children in international tourism, which brings “consumers” to the “Third World.”

I think we need to more legal publication like this Journal to break away from what I view as the rigidity and eliticism of traditional law reviews, in order to get more readership in society. I think that overall, traditional law reviews do not have that much influence on the law and the judicial process in daily life. In busy trial courts, judges don’t always care what law professors have to say when the court takes care of the docket. I used to be a judge presiding over a very busy, very close-to-life courtroom at the lower echelon of the justice system, where real people are seen in the hundreds daily. For for the first two years right after law school, I clerked for the federal district court, the trial court of the federal system. I think I know what judges do. When a judge sends his/her law clerk out to look for authorities, if there isn’t anything else, then a law review may be used. At the Supreme Court level, I doubt if justices make decisions because of a law review.

I think it’s very easy for legal academia to turn into an “ivory tower” with many of us wanting to see only the mirror of our own image. The world of traditional law reviews may just center around that ivory tower. Many of us have not practiced law, at least not substantially. I think that law professors who teach subject matters that require practical skills and practice-oriented reasoning need to practice law before they take the podium, and that law reviews must aim to gain non-lawyer readership.

Having said that, I must say that I have met, in legal academia, some of the most wonderful activists, humanists, and dedicated teachers who step out of the “ivory tower” to stand up for what is right, who have helped me grow, and have confirmed my belief in the goodness of humankind. Without them, my law teaching career would have been much less meaningful. Just to mention a few: Among those few scholars that have helped change legal academia in the past decades is University of Denver reknowned international law scholar Ved Nanda. Among those who are never afraid to take on something unpopular is my colleague Thomas Russell, a historian as well as a lawyer-practitioner. Among those who truly train future litigators by giving them substantive skills through practice-oriented curricula like clinical or mediation programs is my senior colleague Jeff Hartje. Who else? The Denver public interest community must all know the kind-hearted professor Howard Rosenberg, who, in his 80s, is still taking care of the school’ clinical program. I must also mention the eloquent professor Julie Nice, who won teaching awards, and who supported me fully during the early stage of my career by giving me a sample of the kind of teaching style that helps law teachers connect to students with special needs and esoteric viewpoints.

Among my DU former students whom I will remember for life are Don Toussaint, Lucky Vidmar (graduating first in his class), Jeremy Atencio, Nha-Tran Tran, Daniel Kim, Alexandria Yun, and Connie Wang , to mention a few. These were remarkable students who have represented, in different ways, both the strength of diversity and the success of the student population and alumni. I am proud if I have made a difference in their lives and careers.

Thank you Sandra & Uyen for this in-depth interview!

Author Interview with Sherri A. Dub

2011-06-20T13:12:00.000-07:00

Today my guest is Paranormal Romance Author, Sherri A. Dub.

I love social media. As many of you already know, I am an avid “tweeter.” I enjoy sharing good stuff and meeting good people.

Author Sherri A. Dub is just one of the good people I’ve met on twitter. We connected over a tweet and she agreed to an interview with Page Readers.

PR: Sherri, tell us a little about you:

I was born and raised in California for 21 years. I had my son when I was 21 and moved to Haines, Alaska with him as a single mother when he was 3 months old. It wasn't alone, though, my whole family relocated there. I have two sisters and two brothers. I am the second child, and my parents have been married for 45 years.

In Alaska, I did a variety of jobs: Commerical Fishing, Bartending, Dental Assistant and Archaeologist.

In 1995, I married my fantastic husband and my life really became an adventure.

I went to UAA and received my AA degree and a BA of Anthropology. I worked at KPC in the collections department for my Anthropology instructor for 4 years, and spent 6 weeks in the field along the Kenai River studying the Dena'ina Indians and excavating Pre-historical sites. During my 4 years in college, I also wrote for the university newspaper.

I joined RWA in 1997 and became a PRO member in 2008. I joined FF&P, as well around 2006. Both organizations have kept me in the writing loop, as Alaska is a pretty remote place to live and try to remain active in writing circles.

I spent years going to conferences like ECWC (Emerald City Wirter's Conference) and the Maui Writer's Conference. I joined the local chapter of RWA in Anchorage, and drove 2 and a half hours to get to the meetings. I knew that I had to remain active in the writing community any way I could, if I wanted to make my career a success.

When my son graduated from High School in 2008, married and went into the USAF, my husband and I relocated to Nevada so that we could be closer to California and our relatives.

PR: WOW. Talk about persistence. But you had a dream! Now tell us about Goddess Cottage.

I finished Goddess Cottage in 2008 and entered it into the Golden Heart contest two years running. I did receive high marks, but it didn't garner an award. I sent the manuscript out twice to publishers, and though it was requested in full by Kensington Publishing in March this year, they passed on it. My writing friends and critique partners all pushed me to get it published. Everyone was so encouraging, and I truly felt the book was ready and that I was ready for my career to begin.

On April 20th, 2011 my husband and I decided that we'd publish my book ourselves. We researched the markets and chose Bookbaby.com. They created the lovely cover, and it became an Ebook for $1.99 available on all Ebook formats.

I joined Twitter, made a Facebook page under the name Sheropatra and had my own website created. www.sheropatra.com

The book is doing quite well, and receiving great reviews on both Ebook outlets and Goodreads.com.

PR: What is the story about?

Goddess Cottage is a story about a young woman, Sierra Kastian and her struggles with a talent for psychic intuition that she cannot explain nor control. She grew up lonely, with a mother who gambles with similar powers to fulfill her own emptiness. She was told from birth that she has no other relatives nor is her father alive. On the brink of turning 30, her life is tipped upside down by the appearance of a man, Hayden Wells. He delivers a package to her, with a tarot card and pictures of an estranged aunt whom is requesting that Sierra come to Alaska to visit her before her death. When she goes to Alaska she must face that her mother lied to her about everything in her childhood. She is taught her family history, and told that she is an Ivory Witch, born to marry a werewolf and to protect a secret world of other races in the wilds of Alaska.

I believe that Goddess Cottage is about healing, acceptance and allowing your fate to become a part of who you are, even if you fear where it may take you.

PR: What inspired you to write this story?

I like to intertwine my own personal experiences with things that my imagination conjures to make sense of them. I grew up with a large family of poker players and fun loving relatives, all of us competitive and high spirited. But, when I imagine people who are alone, as my Heroine Sierra Kastian was portrayed to have been, a story begins to form in my mind and I fight to get it down on paper.

Usually, I write out a rough draft of my idea, in a binder that I keep all my ideas filed in. Then, I take the time to plot out my character sketches and a brief outline before I start the actual writing process.

PR: What is your writing process? Do you outline or just go for it?

I use an outline, but merely as a guide. I like my characters to tell me where my story is going. I think it is great if other writers can make a neat and tidy outline and stick to it, but it wouldn't work for me. Aside from the rough synopsis, I like to fly by the seat of my pants and let the story unfold in its own way.

PR: How do you choose a setting or place for your stories?

I love to revisit places I went as a child, because I believe it is then that we imprint the true flavor and feeling of the place into our minds. I grew up going back and forth to Lake Tahoe and Reno, so those memories have left a great impression on me. I think one can suspect if a writer is writing about a childhood place, as the memories make the setting seem more believable.

PR: Explain Paranormal Romance and FF&P?

Paranormal Romance is the genre I choose to gravitate towards because I grew up with parents who are avid antiquers. They taught us about the age of items, the histories attached and they liked to speculate that certain items could have past memories attached to them.

I was never afraid of ghosts or the idea of the paranormal as a kid. I grew up watching all the old B&W horror films, and I am a big time collector of that genre. I have all the old movie posters on my office walls, and I never tire of watching the corniest films. However, I think when I first saw the movies Poltergeist & The Shining ~ I knew what my calling was. I wanted to write those types of stories, but with Romance at the forefront of the plot. It excited me to think of a couple in peril from a paranormal element as they tried to remain together.

FF&P (Fantasy, Futuristic and Paranormal) is another writing group I belong to. It encompasses all the creature romances: Vampires, Werewolves and Ghosts. But, because you can use the fantasy element, it allows a writer to world-build, too.

I am currently plotting a YA Steampunk trilogy using all of my FF&P skills. But, I don't expect it to be out for some time. I've been working on it between my romance novels.

PR: Do I write with on a notepad, laptop, or use a journal?

I use the writing software WriteWayPro on my PC and laptop. I keep a binder on my desk with the essential guidelines of my current WIP, and then I just dive right into the writing stage. After each chapter I complete, I go back and edit. And each day, I re-read the previous chapter to get myself back into the mood and tone of the story.

PR: What's your next release about?

At the end of June, I will be releasing my second Paranormal Romance, The Witch Ball. Again, it will be available on Ebooks of all formats.

It is a novel set in Placerville, Ca about a woman who is a picker. She buys antiques from auctions and estate sales and re-sells them in her shop in Old Sacramento with her business partner. This story is a very personal one for me, as it retraces a bit of the Donner Party history and the archaic beliefs in items such as the Witch Ball and the practice of hanging and condemning innocent women by men of ignorance. The book is set in the present day, but the story revolves around a haunted collection of items the Heroine buys in a Victorian home in Placerville. She becomes so engrossed in the items and their paranormal connection to history, that she becomes nearly possessed by the ghost of a woman from the past. With the help of the Hero, there will be the happy ending that is expected, but their journey will be hauntingly suspenseful.

I have a passion for stories involving Witches. Since I was a child, I did all my history reports on Salem and witchcraft and such. It is one of those fascinations that has long held a place in my imagination and I don't believe that will ever change.

PR: What's in store for the future?

I will be starting my third Paranormal Romance novel, again set in Alaska, with shape-shifters and Native Alaskan Heritage playing a large role. I haven't titled it yet, but I've been playing with the rough draft in between my deadlines for getting my second novel out.

At the same time, I am fleshing out the details for the YA trilogy, and I hope to have the first book ready to present by the end of summer.

I will be going to the ECWR in Seattle on October 28-30th and I hope to reconnect with many of my writer friends, but also to meet new ones.

I have a contest on the last day of every month on my website, and this month it's for a $20 B&N gift card. All you do is go to the website and fill out the Contact Me form.

I'm a big believer in my readers, and I personally answer all my emails, Facebook and Twitter messages.

I hope that in the future, I will have a fan base so large that I will have to hire a secretary to help me in that department.

PR: GOOD LUCK! I hope that happens soon!

Find Sherri online at http://www.sheropatra.com/

Connect with Sherri by searching for Sheropatra on Twitter, Facebook and Goodreads

All The Wrong Places, review by Sandra Sanchez

2011-06-10T01:17:00.000-07:00

All The Wrong Places

By Rebecca Fisher

rebeccafisherbooks.com

ISBN #9780615418292

To call a semi autobiographical novel about escape from an abusive relationship a “fun” read will probably sound irreverent but All The Wrong Places truly is a lot of fun to read. The narrator, Casey, is vulnerable but proud and determined, the bad guy, Jerry, is really bad but not unrealistically so, the good guys (in the mortuary) are caring, smart and often absolutely hilarious. The plot is just bizarre enough to be real, in fact some of it is based on the author’s own experience. The structure is easy to follow and all questions are answered in good time. I can’t think of a better book to make a reader feel good about the possibilities in life.

The promo materials say that the book is a “courageous, emotive account of the struggles that so many American women encounter” and I’d have to say that most American women who find themselves in abusive relationships are not so lucky as to crash their cars on the grounds of a mortuary with a resident savior, but it is more than heartwarming to follow this protagonist’s unlikely, bizarre but believable rescue. I did myself work in a shelter for battered women thinking I’d pursue an MSW to do counseling, when it occurred to me that most victims of domestic violence were in greater need of legal assistance and I made a last minute decision to apply to law school instead. So I can say from years of experience that the courtroom scenes and the scenes with the court appointed G.A.L were spot on accurate and could certainly have transpired just as the author described them. Also completely authentic and insightful was how Casey reacted to winning her custody and property battles in court: she knew that, with nothing to lose, Jerry would be that much more determined to take vengeance so she was not being over dramatic to fear for her life. I realize I have just revealed quite a bit of the plot but it doesn’t matter because it is not so much suspense that keeps a reader turning the pages, as the absolute joy of hanging out with the Golden Oaks mortuary gang. You definitely want to meet these fine folks.

Rebecca Fisher is clearly up to turning any kind of real life circumstances into literature that combines seriousness with the out loud laughter that so often saves us from despair, gritty realism with the magic of dreams and psychic insights. And if happy endings after these kinds of opening circumstances might seem a stretch, well she makes this happy ending not only plausible but a true celebration. Read and rejoice!

Sandra Shwayder Sanchez

author of Stillbird, Three Novellas, A Mile In These Shoes

www.thewessexcollective.com

https://secure.digitalcontentcenter.com/shop/627321/products

Sandra Sanchez Review of Shadow of Schizophrenia

2011-06-05T01:04:00.000-07:00

Shadow of Schizophrenia

by Francin Pinto

Body and Soul Books

ISBN 9789381115008

This slim but courageous 86 page book is a multi layered look at economic and social decline in Mumbai. The introduction lists all the technical advances of 21st century life before pointing out that 70% of the 1.3 billion people living in India live on an average of 20 CENTS per day, 7 out of 10 children under the age of 14 years do not finish school but must go out to work to help support their families. At the same time 1,3% of the population forms the "iconic super rich billionaire class", 10% are millionaires and 33.7 form the country's middle class. the other 55% have no idea where tomorrow's meal will come from.

She raises the question: "Do material comforts such as cars, laptops, jet planes, close circuit cameras, malls, national ID programmers, computerizations of every necessary system from railway booking to banking, internet, emails, SMS', maids at our beck and call, best designer brands, 7 star hotels with excellent ambiance, IGSE, ICSE, MBA degrees, etc. make us better human beings?" She then points out that India still has 1200 tribes who live "as their ancestors lived without bank balance, without any clue about the future, without stress. . . " and describes how living on the barter system, conserving natural resources and respecting their elders is how they teach their younger generations to live in harmony with nature (i.e social sanity). She laments the loss of times when children had a childhood with the freedom to fly kites, climb trees and people shared with one another. When writing about the loss of better times and lamenting the ills that have come with so called "progress" the author falls into a rthymic pattern of speech that is like a chant, a pure cry to the heavens to hear her plea.

In the midst of all this, her character, Jessica, a young suburban woman with an interest in scientific study moves into the field of management in order to reap the rewards of more prevalent livelihood opportunities but is still obsessed with her interest in scientific study. Jessica decides to make a study of the effects of mental illness on productivity (as a management tool) and takes a look at three families: the "control"family and two familes who respond differently to the influence of having among them a family member who suffers from schizophrenia.

It appears to be the author's intent to draw an analogy from an individual's insanity to an entire society's insanity. Certainly the statistics in the introduction point out a society that is not functioning in a sane manner. Jessica seeks to make comparisons from animal behavior (which was her field of study initially as a scientist) and human evolution to the evolution of mental disorders in individuals, what is it that goes wrong and detours the individual (or the society) onto the path leading to extreme dysfunction? And how do individuals and societies find happiness despite the presence of insanity?

The author is a social worker dedicated to working toward social improvement and this book is the first of what may be several books raising questions about how best to do that and including the answers she discovers along the way.

Sandra Shwayder Sanchez

www.thewessexcollective.com

Author Hank Quense offers insights on Scene Design

2011-05-31T15:40:00.000-07:00

Some of my guests are more than fiction or non-fiction writers. they are also teachers and share their know how through great books that can help anyone become a better writer.

Fantasy Author Hank Quense shares his knowledge and routine about Scene Design. Visit Hank online at Hank Quense.com

One process that is rarely explained in depth in fiction writing books is scene design. I'll briefly describe several aspects of scene design in this post. These come from Chapter Nine in Build a Better Story which explores this topic in more depth

As part of the structure, scenes must have a goal that should be satisfied or, at a minimum, show progress before the scene ends. This goal must be designed to advance the story toward the ultimate aim of solving the plot problem and demonstrate how the characters are going about it.

The structure of the scene restricts it to a specific time and place with a defined set of characters. Thus, if the scene is set in Manhattan during the morning rush hour, a different scene will be necessary to show any action taking place in Baltimore late at night. A different scene may also be necessary to show a character in Manhattan's evening rush hour. The point here is to demonstrate that the scenes have geographical and temporal boundaries.

A scene usual starts with the scene's main character, almost always the scene's viewpoint character, facing a situation with a definite goal that appears to be attainable. This goal, once achieved, must move the story toward the ending, but achieving this goal doesn't necessarily have to take place in this single scene. There may be quite few scenes delineating the struggle to attain this goal.

A scene must contain conflict of some sort. It doesn't have to be a ferocious fistfight, but the conflict, physical or emotional, must be real to the characters.

A basic requirement for a scene is to include an emotional change in the POV character. If the character's emotion is positive at the beginning of the scene, then it should be negative at the end. As an example, Character A feels good a the start of the scene. By the end of the scene, he must be in a funk because an unexpected obstacle arose and derailed his scheme to fix things. Similarly, if the character's love life is grand at the scene opening, it should be on the rocks at the end of the scene. Or if the couple starts out fighting or arguing, they should be smooching by the end of the scene.

A scene that goes emotionally from plus to minus should be followed by a scene that goes emotionally from minus to plus. The point is to put the reader's emotions on a roller-coaster so that those emotions are never stable very long.

Great tip! Thanks so much for sharing this great info Hank.

Dino's Story, Review by Sandra Sanchez

2011-05-23T14:02:00.000-07:00

Dino’s Story, A Novel of 1960s Tuscany

By Paul Salsini

iUniverse, Inc.

978-1-4502-1080-5

Having lived in Tuscany (although not in Florence) the summer & early fall of 1966 and having fond memories of harvesting grapes during the day and sitting around the dinner table at Il Mullinaccio Della Strega trying to follow several conversations in Italian and two kinds of English (British and American) I looked forward to this book with eager anticipation and it did not disappoint. I was, as I had hoped to be, transported to Italy in the sixties.

The book opens with the leisurely pace and cadence of the small Tuscan village of Sant Antonio and lays the foundation for Dino’s journey from boyhood to manhood. The pace picks up when he moves to Florence to study art and at the end moves along at the same fast and furious pace as the torrential rains and flooding Arno River. In this way the story builds in intensity like a symphony.

Dino (short for Aldebrandino) is at the hub of several heartwrenching stories. It is his task to find a long missing uncle but when he does he wants to shelter his mother from the sad truth of the man’s alcoholic and impoverished life. He meets an urban priest who does his best to help the poor of the city, working at a soup kitchen and providing shelter and inspiring Dino to want to do the same. Dino can’t decide whether or not to mail letters he writes to a young girl back home who also writes and hides letters to him. He tries to understand other young women he meets in Florence. He discovers that in addition to his talent for painting he has a talent for music. He works various jobs and thereby meets a future friend and mentor with his own mysterious story, a gentle giant of a football player who is the beloved of a wealthy, oft married and widowed principessa who hosts “salons” for working people as well as sophisticated art collectors in her palazzo promptly at 7:38pm (a reason is rumored).

All the characters, no matter how brief their sojourn in these pages, have complex background stories that explain so much about them. This is masterful writing. And even better the book serves an important social function in its graphic description of how the poorest of the city are affected by natural disaster. It is very timely given the recent floods, hurricanes, and earthquakes that have similarly destroyed the lives of the poorest residents where these disasters have occurred. In the wake of the flood, Dino and his friend Tomasso Nozzoli come up with a plan that will help a lot of people in a lot of ways. Were Paul Salsini to run for a place in city gov’t I’d want to vote for him. Meantime, I recommend Dino’s Story to lots of readers whether you are interested in Italy, the 60s, music, art, love, politics or all of the above.

Sandra Shwayder Sanchez

author of Stillbird and Three Novellas, A Mile in These Shoes

www.thewessexcollective.com

TurboCharged by Dien Griesel, Ph.D. and Tom Griesel

2011-05-18T07:25:00.000-07:00

TurboCharged

Dian Griesel, Ph.D. & Tom Griesel

As a reviewer, I get certain genre(s) in cycles. Right now I am in the Health/Weight Loss genre cycle.

In the past 4 months, I’ve read 4 books on these subjects. One was actually more about mental health but physical health plays a role in that area, so the book reached out in that directions too.

But TurboCharged by siblings Dian Griesel, Ph.D. and Tom Griesel is one I would call a stand out. In the introduction, the first statement is very bold, “The TurboCharged steps as presented in this book will out-perform any other diet or exercise program you may have tried in the past.” I like bold statements like that.

Every paragraph provides another piece to the puzzle, without overwhelming you with facts. As explained, all of the information makes perfect sense. The only “trick”? You have to work the steps.

One point discussed focused on water consumption. I’ve always been a sipper. I carry my glass and plastic straw around all day, sipping. TurboCharged explains why this is not enough to handle how much water my body really needs. It took me a few days to get into the habit of drinking more each time I picked up my glass and after having tried the TurboCharged way for one week; I experienced quite a few changes.

Two other chapters I found to be worthy of a book alone, were #6 Muscle Power in 5…Minutes a Day! and the 100 calorie and under list in chapter #7. I’m thinking a poster of each of these chapters would be great. Lots of information at one glance.

Another great chapter, #8 “See” the Prize. I am a firm believer in visualization and meditation. Here Dian and Tom discuss the importance of relaxing our minds and how doing so positively affects the body and our quest to be healthy.

I think that’s the main point here. If we want to be healthy, it takes effort. Start by making the effort to read this book.

Daughters of the River Huong, review by Sandra Sanchez

2011-05-16T11:05:00.000-07:00

Daughters of the River Huong

By Uyen Nicole Duong

AmazonEncore

P.O. Box 400818

Las Vegas, NV 89140

9781935597315 $13.95

“As a young girl, I did not feel the need to learn the mi origin of my name. It did not help solidify my sense of aesthetics, decorum or the business of the soul. I thought, instead, of a note on my piano. Mi-mi-mi-mi. I equated the mi sound with pure, vibrating sounds that began with the closing and opening of the lips. When the lips were gently brought together and then opened upon a breath, the air brushed slightly outward, and the sound was delivered with the softness of a caress.

From the beginning of my existence, I was a child in love with sounds.” (p.152)

As a reader in love with the lyrical qualities of language I found this book to be a feast of earthly and heavenly delights, a series of impressionist paintings, a symphony of sounds. Even when the tragic sacrifice of a deep and passionate love to the exigent circumstances of war and politics caused me to indulge in a vigorous cry, I rejoiced in the beauty of the story. For life is like that, both brutal and sweet. The author retells a portion of Vietnamese history from the perspective of four generations of women: women who are beautiful, women who sing, women who dream and see spirits, women who fight like warriors and a girl who dances the twist, sings Beethoven, plays Chopin on the piano and eventually studies law in America. On a business trip for her American law firm the narrator eventually returns to her homeland where she learns some harsh truths, confronts the magnitude of her loneliness and finds, where she least expects it, the promise of redemption for herself and the souls of the generations that went before her.

The plot is complex and the author reveals it in layers, creating then relieving suspense in a rhythmic pattern. Her characters are both real and ethereal. She lets us see their faces, hear their voices and smell their fragrances. She lets us into their dreams. She also describes the land itself in a way that transports the reader to the time and place of each chapter. I recommend the reader begin this book with plenty of time ahead for once you begin you won’t want to put it down and there are portions you will probably want to reread. Also after you’ve finished you’ll need some time to recover from the emotional impact, the feeling that you’ve just lived through something both beautiful and tragic.

Sandra Shwayder Sanchez, reviewer

www.thewessexcollective.com

Sandra Sanchez review of Sherry and Narcotics by Nina Marie Gardener

2011-05-13T12:00:00.000-07:00

Sherry and Narcotics
By Nina Marie Gardener
Future Fiction London
www.futurefiction.co.uk
ISBN# 978-0-9827928-2-7
As the mother of women roughly the same age as the protagonist Mary, I found this novel both a compelling and a heartrending read. It opens with graphic narrative scenes of Mary, drunk and drugged, participating in sexual acts with random partners. Later there is a flashback to an actual rape and beating. Throughout I wondered what was the childhood history that propelled this young woman to put herself in such danger.

The novel soon moves into a pattern of dialogue carried on via emails and texts between Mary and her new, sweet love, Jake. Mary is a playwright so carrying the story forward this way makes sense and the author is extremely good at it. The emails and texts between Mary and Jake bring a smile to the face and a flutter to the heart. The time spent waiting for those emails and texts inspires anxiety. The reader feels each moment along with the character. There is also the undercurrent of tension between Mary and her mother. A brief telephone conversation between them is particularly poignant, giving the reader a hint of a painful and complex history in very few words. In fact, the entire book moved along like a film in my mindâ•˙s eye and I think it could be easily transformed into an excellent film.

Jake, not a bad guy but an indecisive one, ultimately lets Mary down and I donâ•˙t think Iâ•˙m spoiling the story by disclosing that since the end of their sweet affair is skillfully foreshadowed throughout. Then, when it seems Mary has hit bottom, two miracles occur at the very end: she rescues a dog from a cruel and brutal death and two strangers turn out to be kind and help her in this endeavor. Of course she is overwhelmed in a good way by this kindness from strangers who in the past she had learned to fear, so the book ends on an upbeat note that begs for a sequel. In fact, since the details of Maryâ•˙s family and childhood history are never explained and given the enticing nature of this book, I would like to see both a prequel and a sequel because the author made me care deeply about what past moved Mary into this particularly painful present, as well as what her future holds: hopefully sobriety, self awareness and appreciation, and the unconditional love of dogs. I recommend this book be read when the reader has time to read it start to finish, you wonâ•˙t want to put it down.

Sandra Shwayder Sanchez, reviewer
http://www.thewessexcollective.com
https:secure.digitalcontentcenter.com/shop/627321/products

Frank Alessandra and The Six

2011-05-09T12:47:00.000-07:00

Frank Alessandra joined me on Page Readers Radio to discuss his new book "The Six," the story of child hood friendships and the true meaning of male bonding.

Frank has a very exciting event coming up May 17th, 2011 at 8pm Eastern. He will be featured in a live author video chat - meaning he'll be right there on your screen and available to answer your questions about this book and anything else you care to ask. It's like being at a bookstore signing without having to leave your home. For your backstage pass, visit the Frank Alessandra Feature page.

Be sure to visit Frank online at www.thesixbook.com

Page Readers Cinch Cast May 9 2011

2011-05-09T12:29:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone! Still giving this Cinch Cast a try, always working to gain more publicity for the authors who share their work and time with me.

Hope you enjoy it! This was the first "Official" Cinch Cast that I plan to do every couple of weeks. This short audio recording will let me share what's going on at Page Readers with a whole new audience of listeners - and who knows, possibly your next fan!

My Sisters Made Of Light review by Sandra Sanchez

2011-05-07T13:00:00.000-07:00

My Sisters Made Of Light
By Jacqueline St. Joan
Press 53
PO Box 30314
Winston-Salem , NC 27130
www.Press53.com
9781935708063 $19.95

My Sisters Made of Light is a brilliant book made of beauty and an honest look at brutality, deep insights and soaring lyricism. It is fiction based on the harsh realities of the culturally and socially accepted honor crimes against women in Pakistan . We watch in horror as a father lights a disobedient daughter on fire. We read in disbelief as a mother escorts a hired assassin to a meeting with her daughter and watches as he shoots her child dead. We hold our breath as a Muslim woman escapes her family to marry a Sikh man whom she adores. Theirs is a love of historic significance. The author encapsulates a long and bloody history into unforgettable images:

In 1958 the air was still sour with the stench of the slaughters that had occurred eleven years earlier when the British ran like dogs and India cracked. The blade that slashed the map also partitioned the bodies of the people, etching fear in their bellies and revenge in their hearts. . . . . . If a trainful of Hindus was murdered by Muslims from Lahore (and they were), then a trainful of Muslims would be murdered by Sikhs and Hindus from Amritstar (and they were). Entire families were butchered and their body parts were delivered by horseback to their villages. The people emptied baskets of breasts and pails of penises onto the ground - even the stubs of baby penises with scrotums like tiny figs. The soil was soaked with all the lost futures and when it was done, when the trauma finally subsided to abide in the bodies of the people, they had to plant seeds in and eat the fruit of that same earth. Sikhs and Muslims alike knew the taste of each other’s blood well and they kept to their own.

Kulrag and Nafeesa in London . Romeo and Juliet in Verona . A Muslim and a Sikh in Pakistan . All of history conspired against them, but no matter. They would find a new way.

This book is about the courageous women who risk their lives to teach a new way to the young women of Pakistan . Interspersed in the rich mix of their stories are passages of pure poetry:

I knelt before the shrine for long periods. I read no textbooks. Poured no oil on the doorstep. Took no milk in my tea. No tea. No dusty sandals. No laundry. No letters. No toothbrush. No prayers. No songs. No memories. No soft sisters. No tough sisters. No purpose. No me. For days and days I faded away.

The author has sought and achieved recognition and success in the fields of law and literature in order to further her agenda of making the world safer for women. She donates half the proceeds from sales of the book to a grassroots organization building a safe shelter for women and children escaping abuse. Even if it were not a great read, buying this book helps people in need. The bonus to you is that it IS a great read.

Sandra Shwayder Sanchez, reviewer

http://www.thewessexcollective.com

Reviewer Sandra Sanchez joins Page Readers!

2011-05-04T08:21:00.000-07:00

I’d like to introduce all of you to a new member of Page Readers. Sandra Sanchez will be sharing her positive reviews of books from authors of her preferred genre(s). I hope you all find her reviews informative and will take a moment to welcome her!

The best way to get to know someone is to let them tell you their story. So Sandra, start us off by telling us a little about you.

I am one of those baby boomers, born May 16, 1946. My parents were divorced when I was six and this was a sad time for me. I had learned to read early and it has been a comfort for me my entire life. After my Dad read me one of those alphabet books: A is for Apple, B is for Ball, etc. I figured it out from there. I was reading adult books by the time I started first grade although I kept that a secret and tried to act like a kid. I did attend one year of college at St. John's (the "great books school") in Annapolis but met and soon thereafter married my first husband whom I persuaded to go "back to the land" in the early seventies. We lived in a shack with an outhouse and grew our own food in a West Virginia holler for three years before he persuaded me to go "back to civilization" after our second daughter was born in the back seat of the car en route to Roanoke Community Hospital. Sara has been in a rush ever since! Not long after the move, we divorced, I finished a BA in Psychology with a minor in Women's Studies at University of Md. and then moved back to Colorado. After a year working as a hostess in a fancy restaurant I decided to go to law school. I was all set to change the world for women. That did not happen but I did manage to change a few women's lives for the better. I married Ed Sanchez in 1994 and we moved up to the mountains in 2005

Tell us about your writing - why you write, the genre you prefer, what started your journey into being and author.

Loving to read as much as I did I think it was inevitable that I would one day want to write. When I was in 6th grade I read Wuthering Heights and was transported to that time and place. When I read the last page I turned back immediately to the first and started all over again. I was not ready to leave the Yorkshire Moors. I think I had this vague idea that I wanted to write like that: transport myself and others to another time and place, but I didn't actually start writing stories until I was a senior in H.S and took a creative writing class. My teacher loved my stories, read them to ALL his English classes, and by the end of the day, kids were coming up to me to say they'd heard my story in class and really liked it and soon everyone was telling me "do something with your writing." I had an opportunity because of a contest to write for Seventeen Magazine and I did write a column about books. By the time they were ready to run it and called me to say they needed me to cut it down to 800 words, I had started college and didn't take the opportunity with sufficient seriousness and didn't follow through. Needless to say I am sorry now. One funny thing is that I read adult novels when I was a kid but didn't discover fairy tales until I was an adult looking for Jungian undercurrents. I had discovered mythology however as a child in the Book of Knowledge. And my mom used to talk to me about dreams and dream interpretation. So it made sense that I would write magical realist fiction although when I first started doing it I didn't know that was what it was called. Gabriel Garcia Marquez did not influence my writing but reading his work validated my writing. It gave me a way to describe it.

Now that we know how and when you started reading and writing, tell us about your work.

I write very short novels or very long short stories. Well I think it would be fair to say I write novellas with a very wide range. I feel like the story dictates the length. So my first novel, The Nun, published by Plain View Press in 1992 was only 127 pages and some of those filled with poems as the 20th century character is a poet. It is in two parts: a 10th century Nun who becomes a recluse and a sculptor and a 20th century incarnation of same character as a poet who also becomes a woodland recluse. My second novel, Stillbird is 124 pages and has been called "an epic in less than 200 pages". StillbirdStillbird with the help of Peter Burnham, the editor of The Long Story these past thirty years. We started The Wessex Collective together in 2005. During this time I wrote a few short stories and have collected the ones I consider the best into a collection titled A Mile in These Shoes. I also wrote novellas and collected my three favorites in another Wessex book: Three Novellas. My last novel (so far) The Road Home, a magical realist historical novel about crypto Jews in the southwest is supposed to be released by Floricanto Press in California this year but business is bad and they are not in a hurry to "rush to market". I am hoping to raise some money to publish a collection that would include a 2nd Ed. of The Nun, Stillbird, two of the three novellas and two of the nine short stories. In the meantime Three Novellas is still available as a real book (email me at sansan542000@yahoo.com if interested). I have about a dozen copies left of Mile in These Shoes and Stillbird is available as an e-book at:

https://secure.digitalcontentcenter.com/shop/627321/products

as are my other two Wessex books plus 17 titles by 10 other authors. Since we don' t have to pay to reprint e-books once they are out there in the cyber world (although we do have to cover commissions), we are all agreed that we will donate $3 for every $5 download to various charitable organizations. Different authors have different preferences. Mine will be donated to people doing dog rescue.

When did you start writing reviews?

I used to write reviews for the Boulder Daily Camera when they ran them: I'd be paid $50 per review plus of course getting free books. I started doing reviews for Book Pleasures after one of their other reviewers reviewed my book Three Novellas. Initially it was a way for me to get our Wessex link out there but of course it is wonderful discovering so many fine books by fine authors. Norm Goldman sends out the requests for reviews with the descriptions of the books and I only request those that I am pretty sure I will like. I did get one book that I thought I'd like based on the hype (published by Simon and Schuster) but after 60 pages I realized I wasn't going to have anything positive to say about it so I wrote the PR person and just told her in all sincerity I could not give this book a good review. I see no point in posting a negative review. Someone else will like it and apparently a lot of people are already fans of this author so she doesn't need my opinion.

Good to know!

I'm so happy to welcome Sandra and her positive input here at Page Readers!

Jillian Brookes Ward discusses Saving Nathaniel

2011-04-30T15:30:00.000-07:00

Author Jillian Brookes-Ward stopped by Page Readers to discuss her book Saving Nathaniel.

Welcome Jillian! Let's start by having you tell us about you!

I was born and raised in an industrial town in the North of England. My mother was a housewife and my father a fireman. I have one younger brother.

I attended the usual educational establishments, leaving college at 18 with secretarial qualifications. I worked as a clerk at the local fire station where I met my future husband.

I took a career break in order to bring up two of my sons before returning to work as a Medical/MedicoLegal Secretary at the local general hospital. I then had my third son, but carried on working, managing also to fit in a two year course to upgrade my qualifications. I also managed to study for and acquire a BS in Natural Sciences along the way.

Six years ago I gave up the nine to five and moved to a pretty village in Royal Deeside in Scotland. It was the best move I ever made. It was then that my writing really took off, being inspired by the locale and the people. I am not working at the moment, preferring to concentrate of keeping house and writing, but if the right job comes along, I'll consider it.

When I'm not writing, I like to walk in the hills and woods around my village, taking my little dog Archie with me. I like photography and the company of friends.

What is your story about?

SAVING NATHANIEL is the story of a man who is being consumed by unresolved guilt and grief over the death of his wife and baby. He is gradually starting to lose his grip on normality. One rainy day, Megan Thomas literally bursts into his kitchen to take up her position as his temporary housekeeper.

Megan has a caring, compassionate nature, and soon bonds with the troubled man and he in turn, despite still loving his dead wife, becomes attached to her. Under her gentle guidance, he slowly begins to come to terms with his past and to take the first steps towards a fresh start.

When the time comes for Megan to leave her temporary employment, Nathaniel has become dependent on her and is reluctant to let her go. When she has gone, he realises he loves her and wants her back. Whether she feels the same about him with all his accumulated baggage, is the question.

How did this story come to you?

I don't remember when it happened, only that all of a sudden it was there and I acted on it.

The idea for the story is based on a common misconception that men should be tough enough to handle grief at the loss of a loved one. This is not the case at all, and often, hidden from view behind a veneer of coping, they are barely muddling through, their emotions in tatters, their confidence shattered and their hearts ripped in half. What they really need is a kind word, a gentle touch or even just a quiet presence. I suppose I just wanted to bring that fact to the fore and to show what a difference simple human contact can make in such a situation.

What compelled you to write it?

I wanted to tell a story to show what a difference compassion, empathy and gentle understanding can make and that loss need not be the end of the world. Although it may not seem like it at the time, it can be overcome and coming out the other side, there is more life to be lived.

Who is your favorite character?

Nathaniel of course. I had only got halfway through the book when I realized I was already in love with him myself.

What was your favorite scene to write?

The fight scene in chapter 14 between Nathaniel and his now ex-friend Phil McNeil. McNeil was a really sleazy, unpleasant character who insulted Megan, and it gave me great pleasure to allow Nathaniel to punch him in the face.

I also rather enjoyed writing the sex scenes, but don't tell anyone.

How long did it take you to write the story?

From first word to final period, about two years. There were several rewrites, a new title, and severe and comprehensive edits, but eventually it all came together and I am rather pleased with the result. I have had some good reviews, so it seems others are happy with it too.

When was it released?

Saving Nathaniel was released in October 2010 first in its e-book format, followed a couple of weeks later by the paperback edition.

How is it available?

The book is available both in paperback and e-book formats.

Where can we find it online?

Published by Night Publishing, the book is available as an e-book from Smashwords: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/25936

In paperback from Amazon.com: http://www.amazon.com/Saving-Nathaniel-Jillian-Brookes-Ward/dp/1453837914/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1287060542&sr=8-21

and Createspace: https://www.createspace.com/3486056

In Kindle format from www.amazon.com

and www.amazon.co.uk: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Saving-Nathaniel/dpsr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1286806045&sr=1-1

For NOOKbook from Barnes and Noble: http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Saving-Nathaniel/Jillian-Brookes-Ward/e/2940011111372/?itm=1&USRI=saving+nathaniel

What was your publishing experience like?

My publishing experience has been quite a...well, quite an experience, and an incredibly good one, thanks to Tim Roux and Night Publishing.

The first chapter of Saving Nathaniel was voted on by members of Nightreading.ning.com in their monthly 'First Chapter of the Month' poll, and after an almost landslide victory, was selected for publication by Night Publishing.

I expected the editing process to be fraught with difficulties. I'd heard stories about how manuscripts were mangled and almost rewritten beyond recognition by editors, but my editor, Genevieve Graham-Sawchyn (http://www.writingwildly.weebly.com) was brilliant. She worked with me every step of the way to guide and advise me and together we polished Saving Nathaniel to publication sparkle and I can't thank her enough.

Where can we find you online, include your website, facebook, Twitter or anywhere else you reside online.

I'm in quite a few places, too many possibly. I seem to spend more time online plugging and publicizing the book than I do writing nowadays. Let's see...

I have a website at: http://www.jillywrites.weebly.com

A blog at: http://www.writers-unlimited.blogspot.com

I'm on Twitter at @jillywrites

A Facebook page at: http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/profile.php?id=100000844003218

A LinkedIn page at: http://uk.linkedin.com/in/jillianbrookesward

and I am a member of quite a few networking/social sites such as SheWrites, BookBlogs, PolkaDotBanner, Authors on Show, Goodreads, Scribd and Nightreading.

What else have you written and what are you doing now?

I have just uploaded my second novel Linda Loves...? to Smashwords and Kindlestore at Amazon. My third work is lighthearted comic/erotic romp, On The Fly, and is available to download from Smashwords and Kindlestore.

I recently completed the first draft of my 4th novel, Three Way Street, which is now in consolidation, awaiting editing. Meanwhile, I have a work in progress. Watch Your Back, which is a change of genre for me. I usually write romance, but WYB is a psychological revenge thriller. I also write tongue in cheek observational articles for a fishing website, Fishkeep.net

Words of wisdom - share with the readers your inspiration, setting goals, helpful words for other aspiring authors.

I can't give advice about goals, planning and plotting, because I don't use them. The only deadline I've ever worked to was for NaNo.

My writing philosophies are simply, 'Go for It' and 'Never Give Up'.

My method is to just put my fingers on the laptop keys and begin, let the story all fall out and sort the words out later.

If I could offer one small pearl of wisdom, it would be to those who want to write but haven't got around to it yet. They often say, 'I want to write a book, but I don't know where to start.' The answer is simple. Pick up a pen and get a fresh pad of paper, or start with a new blank document and write. If you have the story in you, get it out, get it in the laptop or on paper. It doesn't matter if it isn't in any particular order or doesn't make much sense at first, just get it down and sift through it later. You'll be surprised and what gems you can uncover. There should be no barrier to getting the story out. They say everyone has a book in them, all it takes is the opportunity to let it out.

GREAT words of wisdom! Thank you so much for stopping by and sharing your story with Page Readers.

29 Days to...

2011-04-22T09:42:00.000-07:00

Richard Fast has created a series of book, all designed to help you make changes in your life over the course of 29 days.

I had to opportunity to review two books from the series: 29 days ... to save money and achieve financial independence, and 29 days.. to your perfect weight, which he wrote with his wife, Stephanie Bertolin.

Both are excellent. The first part of both books are the same, going over the importance of creating a new habit, how long that takes, and how to create that new habit by being aware.

The second part of each book pertains to the individual subject, which gives the reader things to do for each of the 29 days as they become aware of their own habits and start to form newer, healthier habits. And by healthier, I don't mean just for weight loss. It takes a healthy habit to create financial independence.

An added bonus of the books is their interactive website that gives the reader the opportunity to participate in online forums and receive daily emails that help keep you on track towards your goals. Even though the information you are receiving via email is a repeat of the info in the book, it's still good stuff. I recommend signing up for the online part of the course after your first 29 days of following the book. This will give you an extra month to develop all those new habits.

Now you are probably wondering what my results have been after 29 days. As far as eight goes, I've lost 4 pounds, which I know isn't going to make me a winner on The Biggest Loser, but to me, this is fantastic. I've been struggling with weight loss for awhile now and was happy to see the scale move (down). All because I'm taking the time to be aware of what I eat.

Money wise - things are good. I included my family in the 29 days approach and we're all keeping track of what we spend, and what we don't spend. And, while we haven't quit our jobs yet, we have seen an improvement in our finances. All steps in the right direction.

Page Readers continues to grow

2011-04-20T11:41:00.000-07:00

For those of you who have following this blog, first let me say THANK YOU!

When I first started Page Readers, I did it because as an author I know how hard it is to find someone to review your work and then post that review around the web. For free.

Then I added in the Page Readers Show on Blog Talk Radio and started doing live interviews with authors so they could talk about their work. I felt this made Page Readers unique in the world or reviews and interviews by offering both services.

By 2010 Page Readers had grown in popularity so much that I regretfully had to start limiting the number of books I would accept for review and even turn away authors who wanted to be a guest on the show. Imagine! On one hand I was sorry to have to do that, on the other I was amazed that I had to do that!

Also in 2010 I joined forces with Aggie Villanueva to create Promotion a la Carte. At PAC we offer author promotion services that help authors build their audience - which we all know is something that must be done otherwise how will people know who you are or even that your book exists?

Since opening our doors in July 2010 we've had a steady stream of clients, all of whom have been a pleasure to work with. We even started partnering with other promotional companies to package our services in a way that boost the authors exposure, again working to build that all important audience.

With such a steady stream of work, I had to put Page Readers on the back burner. Now that I've had time to get PAC running smoothly, it's time to bring Page Readers back.

But not just with the reviews and interviews. Because of all I've learned working with Aggie, I want to use some of that new knowledge at Page Readers. I'll be adding audio and video reviews of authors work using services such as UStream and Cinch Cast. I will also be writing review articles for more than just this blog, Amazon and Good Reads. There are so many great article sites that will not only let me share my guests books and my reviews of them, but will also bring more exposure to Page Readers and my guests!

I hope you continue to follow along as Page Readers grows. Please subscribe via the RSS feeder - it will send you an email when new items are posted to the blog.

And, if you want to receive great information about using the web to promote your work, be sure to subscribe to the Promotion a la Carte blog.

Thank you all for your continued support!

Carolyn Moncel, Encounters in Paris Review

2011-03-23T17:02:00.000-07:00

Carolyn Moncel shares several wonderfully written short stories about a life in Paris. While I'm sure many of these stories mirror that of the author, I think she does a wonderful job of adding enough drama to make it interesting without taking it overboard.

Each story is about her main character, Ellery, and her life as an American in Paris. With two young daughters an and faithful husband, the loss of her job and the death of her mother back in the states, Ellery deals with her fears and life the best she can without going completely crazy. One story tells of her ending a long term romantic relationship that she knew had to finally end, another tells of her fear of flying and her fears of facing the ghosts of her parents.

Her stories were so good, that I found myself wanting to know more about her main character and her life. Giving us just a small glimpse into the world she has created wasn't enough. I hope Carolyn has plans to develop this into a longer novel, because there is definitely room for this character to grow.

She was also featured here in a Page Readers Interview. I hope you take the time to get to know this wonderful author!

Jeremy Lane, author of "Here and Gone" visits Page Readers

2011-02-19T12:52:00.000-08:00

Jeremy Lane stopped by Page Readers to share his work "Here and Gone." Enjoy!

First Jeremy, tell us a little about you:

I was born and raised in Texas (not hard to tell after reading my stories), and currently live in North Texas with my wife, two daughters, and a son who currently resides in a small apartment in my wife’s womb, and will be moving in to his already-prepared bedroom at the end of October.

My life was fairly peaceful and uneventful growing up. I don’t have any traumatic or life-changing anecdotes to share from my childhood, but I believe aspects of it definitely come through in my writing--most times without my realizing it.

What is your story about?
“Here and Gone” is a collection of short stories about the ability of a brief encounter to have a lasting impact on a person’s life. The stories are all linked by this theme--a quick interaction or experience that changes how we think, how we live, and how we exist.

How did this story come to you?

I think of this collection as “The Big Purge.” It was this exercise where I needed to get rid of these things that reside in the part of your brain where, though you don’t consciously think about them, some action needs to be taken. I tend to write something, then when I’m done I’ll read it and think, “Yeah, ok, I know where that came from.” Like I said, it’s a purge.

What compelled you to write it?

The better question may be, ‘What compelled you to write at all?’, and the answer is: my wife. I struggled with trying to understand what I wanted to be when I grew up well into my twenties. My wife would just shake her head and say, “You should write. You’re good at it.”

Let me save the men who are reading this interview a little time. Just listen to your wife. She’s always right.

Jeremy, you will stay happily married a long time with that attitude.

Who is your favorite character?

Annabel Shay, hands down. It was the first story I wrote, and her character still resonates with me. Whether I am reading or writing, a strong no-nonsense female character is what I am drawn to. You see that a bit in Ceely Dawn as well.

What was your favorite scene to write?

Tough one. Probably the rail car scene in “The Reflection, Only Hers” with Annabel and Mr. Cottle. Strategically it worked out just like I wanted it to. Rarely does a scene end up on paper the way you see it in your head--this was one of the few times it did.

How long did it take you to write the story?

I wrote the collection over a stretch of about eight months. I abandoned a story or two, then came back and tied them together. “The Guest” was written over half an hour with my wife cooking dinner and my kids watching Sponge Bob with the surround sound at full volume.

Do you have a release date?

The Collection will be available through Ether in the coming weeks. The paperback version was just recently released.

How will it be available?

eBook and Print

Where can we find?

“Here and Gone” has been picked up by publisher Ether Books located in the UK, and is available through their mobile publishing app. Ether is on the forefront of an exciting change in the way people consume literature, and I highly suggest people check them out. Ether can be found in the app store, and you can learn more about them at http://www.etherbooks.co.uk./

The paperback version of this collection can be found here.

What has your publishing experience been like?

I am hesitant to answer this question due to the millions of war stories out there from writers trying to get published. I self-published briefly, then saw an article about Ether, submitted some work, and they grabbed it. It moved much quicker for me than I anticipated. I am in talks now with a few agents about a print version of the collection. I’m taking baby steps in this area--I want an agent for the long-term and am proceeding with caution. If I have my way I’ll be able to say, “Glad that’s over. Now back to writing.”

Where we can we find you online?

I am using Social Media exclusively right now. I feel a bit closer to the reader this way, and I may move to a website at some point, but for now people can track me down on Facebook, MySpace, and Twitter.

Facebook: Jeremy Lane

myspace.com/jeremymarklane

twitter.com/jeremymarklane

Are there any “Words of Wisdom” you’d like to share with our readers and fellow authors?

Well, I can share a suggestion and a belief.

Suggestion:

Be creative without over-creating. I think it is near impossible to write fiction without at least some small scene or the most minor character stemming from something or someone you know. Don’t fight this. Scenes and characters are more alive when they are fueled by experience.

Belief:

Attention all Short Story writers: The reason agents, publishers, and writers say there is no market for Short Stories anymore is because very, very few people know how to write them well. If you can write in both quality and quantity things will happen for you. Stay relentless.

Do you have any upcoming publicity events you’d like to share?

I’ll be joining Tony Kay on the Author’s First Radio show in October, and will be on Book’s-n-Authors Radio after the first of this year. I am lining up more radio and blog interviews all the time. I will be keeping Page Readers up to date as we go along.

A note to the reader – Jeremy has graciously offered his work as a prize to subscribers as Promotion a la Carte. Visit Promotion a la Carte and subscribe as a reader to be entered into the monthly drawings.

Thank you Jeremy for stopping by Page Readers to share with our readers. Keep up the great work!

A novel of Spiritual Healing & Unlikely love in the Montana Wilderness

2011-01-19T08:01:00.000-08:00

I found a novel I loved and had to share it with you. You can almost taste the wilderness and the life springing from the pages of it! It’s bestselling author, Doug Hiser’s new novel, Montana Mist, Winter of the White Wolf. Set in the town of Rime, Montana the pages are replete with loners, free spirits and those simply looking for a place to lose themselves for awhile.

Here’s what reviewer Tracy Riva said, “The scenery in Montana Mist vividly springs to life bringing the mountain town and its surroundings into keen view as you peruse the pages of this piece of modern folklore. Hiser brings not only the people of Rime, but also the wild inhabitants of its nearby mountains to boldly dance across the screen of your mind.

“What follows is one of my favorite passages from the book, a tall tale that I suppose could have happened somewhere, at sometime but probably takes place only in our fascinated imaginations. It is the tale of a one-eyed wolf appropriately named Cyclops and a huge bull moose which no wolf in his right mind would normally dare to attack alone:

“Suddenly Cyclops darted in and snapped at the moose’s hind leg. The wolf was fast and quick and he had drawn first blood. The moose grunted and bellowed in rage, snot flung from his large nostrils as he twisted in response to the biting pain in his rear leg. Cyclops rushed in again and the moose was slower. The one-eyed wolf bit the moose in the other hind leg. Throughout the entire engagement Cyclops had been silent but the moose groaned and grunted and snorted in anger. The moose’s shoulders quivered and his mouth opened and closed as oxygen was sucked in. Cyclops had one more trick to play against the big Bull Moose. This is the part where I wish you could have been there…that one-eyed wolf ran around the staggered moose and got behind him again. Cyclops was too quick for that big engine of power. The moose was caught off guard as the one-eyed wolf leapt high and far from behind. That wolf jumped on the moose’s back.”

“ …At first the moose just stood still, breathing hard and tossing his antlers back and forth. Finally realizing there was a wolf sitting on his back the moose started to jump and run. I saw that crazy one-eyed wolf straddling that wild moose and clinging with all four paws and biting a clump of thick hair on the moose’s neck. Cyclops didn’t try to attack the moose. He was just trying to stay on for the ride. That moose jumped and ran all over that clearing trying to dislodge Cyclops. That was the strangest thing you ever saw, a crazy one-eyed wolf riding on a bucking moose.”

Hiser knows how to tell a story and he uses masterful prose to bring his work to life for you to enjoy. I highly recommend Montana Mist, Winter of the White Wolf- reading it will leave an indelible impression on you. Get it today with loads of bonuses! http://bit.ly/e0hWKz

Catching up with Author Jan Sydnam

2011-01-17T16:19:00.000-08:00

Author Jan Sydnam was the very first guest on Page Readers. Listen to that first interview here.

I met Jan on a writers forum. As I browsed through the members, her profile picture caught my eye. She was riding a horse.

Being an equestrian lover myself, I sent her a connection request. She told me about her book and her quest for publicity and to make a long story short, Jan was a big part of the idea that became Page Readers.

First, a little more about Jan:

Jan Sydnam moved to Texas in 2003 to escape the ongoing constant wet drizzle of the Pacific NW. Although she loved the greenness of her surroundings there, the rain was depressing to her as an outdoor type person. Her current home sits amidst a herd of horses that she breeds, trains and shows. Jan made a name for herself in the horse show arena starting in 1970 and has many National wins to her credit. She has either ridden or trained the horse that was declared the winner. Since moving to Texas she started taking her talent in the area of writing, a bit more serious and wrote her first novel in 2007. That novel “Oh, For God’s Sake” was released in November 2008 and has been followed by four additional true crime event books with more in the works. Jan divides her days between writing and riding and does both with the passion she is well known for.

Visit Jan online at her website.

Now, a little about her book, "Oh For God's Sake."

Kathleen Heckertt was born into a life of abuse & neglect. With a manipulative monster for a father and a mother with no backbone, Kate faces deception at every turn.

A secret held by her mother only complicates living with a father who plays physical, emotional & mental games with this child. Like all children, Kate seeks only parental love.

Regardless of her destructive environment, she must make a decision. Her choice will determine the path her life takes as she fights to gain control of her feelings toward God and society.

With twists & turns that seem too painful to face, Oh, For God's Sake will keep you on the edge of your seat. The author aptly portrays experiences from her own life, leaving readers begging the question..."How can Kate ever survive?"

How long ago did you write OFGS?
It took me about six months and that was between the sweaty palms and fits of crying. In my Acknowledgments, I thanked my husband for standing by me as well as standing clear as I went through the painful task of reliving some painful moments of my childhood. Now days I can write the same amount of words in almost half the time.

What was your publishing experience like with OFGS?
I sent out two...yes only two query letters because I was so sure that it was a winner! Well, I waited and waited...publishers take their time! But after three months of nail biting I received an email and a package within moments of each other from a publisher that was interested in publishing my book. The founder of that company included a letter with the contract that in part stated..."You do not sound at all like a first time writer." Then he went on to explain that they receive well over 100k MS a year and they only make offers to 6-9% of the authors. They accepted my MS because...they viewed it as being "Marketable."

Most writers fail to recognize that publishers are not there to make them famous or make them money. The publisher wants to make the bucks!

What did you do to promote your work? (What worked, what didn’t)
I found that making hundreds of calls to the smaller bookstores myself worked. It took time but it paid off especially when I represented the local area as an author. I also contacted groups and schools that might find my book to be of benefit.

Where can we find the book?
Oh, For God's Sake can be found online at many of the booksellers that sell at a discount...or at local bookstores. The last time I checked, Borders and Barnes & Noble were both out of stock...which is good!

Was this your first experience publishing your work?

Oh, For God's Sake was my first published book. Since then I have three other books available.

Lost in Plain Sight that will be re-published in 2011

The Beaten Path - for Marilyn Bloodworth released in 2010

Doors Locked Backwards – for Jamillah Roberts being released in 2011
When I’m not writing a novel I’ve been keeping busy by writing e-books and other short projects

What made you decide to go into ghost writing?
To be honest, it was for the income…at first but once I realized that I had a writing style that was unique, I stopped ghostwriting in the true sense of the word and started asking that my name appear on the cover along with the storyteller. I no longer wanted to be the GHOST that no one ever recognized. Not everyone can make that jump but it’s always worth the attempt!

What has that experience been like?
Well, once I got that “lucky break” I’d been waiting for…of being recognized for my style…I acquired a Publicist and from there the road has been sooooooo much smoother.

Any advice to give to writers thinking of going into the ghost writing business?
My advice to all writers is JUST DO IT! Meaning…just keep writing everyday! Get at least 2000 words down every day! With time, you’ll start picking up gigs that will get your name and talent out there. Don’t plan on staying ghostwriters…go for the moon! Hey, in this business, there’s a lot of space to climb when you’re good!

What is your “routine” for writing?
That’s my other strong advice to writers! Discipline yourself!!! The more you write, the faster you’ll advance and get better jobs. I treat writing as a FULL TIME JOB! You can’t cheat because the only person you wind up cheating is yourself!

What other advice would you like to pass along?
I’ve been helping others with their MS and their story ideas and the one thing I keep running into is the desire to write when there’s really no talent. I hate to be the bearer of bad news but everyone has a story but not everyone can write. Writing is much like singing or dancing. You can learn only so much and the rest is up to you to develop.

In the end, some people will never make it into the final five on American Idol. The same goes for the way the brain works when people write. Some can and some will just be able to do it for their own pleasure and there’s nothing wrong with that.

The rub comes when they start complaining that publishers have no taste or don’t know a good MS when they see it.

No publisher is going to spend even a second longer when they spot typos and grammatical and syntax errors in a MS.

Writers need to take a course in writing. Writers Conventions are great for this info. Too many writers get their information from movies and TV…bad idea and it’s not realistic! Publishers never call you or offer you a hefty check when you’re an unknown writer! It just doesn’t happen that way.

Publishers do this as a living so we must give credit where credit’s due. Be realistic when it comes to your talent! If the rejections keep coming…take a class or find help but don’t blame the publisher! They need to read only the first paragraph or your MS to decide whether it’s a keeper or not. Remember, they get thousands of MSS in the mail every day. So, if your story starts out boring…it’s HELLO TRASH CAN!

There are a lot of talented writers out there and my five suggestions to them are:

1. KEEP WRITING

2. WRITE EVERYDAY

3. GET QUALIFIED HELP IF NEEDED (not your neighbor or sibling who’s never written anything but their name)

4. FIND A PUBLICIST (Yes, they’re expensive but their worth their weight in gold)

5. STAY POSITIVE

Thank you Jan for stopping back in. Congratulations and continued success in your writing career!

Book Review: "Total Law of Attraction," by Dr. David Che

2011-01-12T08:52:00.000-08:00

We’ve all seen The Secret, and have done our best to put The Secret into action. And I’m sure it’s working its magic in your life in some positive way. It’s all good!

But, it gets better. Dr. David Che has given us the missing steps in “Total Law of Attraction.” If you’ve been doing all the visualizations, the staying positive, the dreaming of the future, and yet you still seem to be hitting road blocks, it’s because you’re not working the “whole plan.”

In easy, step by step instructions, Dr. Che gives us the missing pieces, without confusing us with quantum physics or mystical metaphors. Plain English, easy to understand and even easier to put into action.

And action is what we want! We all want to live the lives of our dreams. With Dr. Che’s book, “Total Law of Attraction,” you will be on your way!

Christopher Craven stopped by Page Readers for a few questions about his latest book "October Sun."

2011-01-09T08:16:00.000-08:00

Author Christopher Craven answered a few questions about his newest book "October Sun."

Welcome Christopher!

Start us off with a little background on you.

I grew up the scrawny middle child in a semi-liberal family in Phoenix, Arizona. From the time I was able to write my own name, I knew that I was destined to write for the world. Thank goodness my mother handed me my first adult novel in junior high. I prefer to write erotic romance that explores the love between kindred spirits and romantic suspense. I also enjoy barefoot strolls along the beach, but can most often be found roaming the Eastern Colorado plateaus when I’m not writing or working my daytime job in retail. Your readers can find me on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/authorchriscraven and online at http://cravenheat.blogspot.com/ or they can email me at mailto:authorcraven@gmail.com

What is October Sun about?

The backcover sums it up best:

Love is the strongest force in the universe…

Defense attorney Miles Turner seems to have it all. At the height of his game professionally, he’s just been hired to defend a famous L.A. party boy’s less than stellar reputation, a case that stands to earn Miles a small fortune. And to top it off, his love life isn’t bad either. Even the headache he can’t seem to shake isn’t strong enough to overpower the tenderness he has for his partner. Miles Turner is finally happy.

Landon Black is living a life beyond his dreams. Finishing his degree towards a career he’s always wanted, Landon might spend his days studying, but his nights are filled with the one thing he can’t live without--love. Even the thought of spending a weekend at the upcoming Black family reunion with his less than tolerant father isn't enough to extinguish the excitement Landon feels at the reality of a getaway trip with his lover.

But it can be taken away in an instant…

As members of the “Black Pack” come together in the snowcapped mountains of Colorado at Lake Alexander, no-one can see what’s looming ahead-- an event with consequences so severe it stands to alter all of their lives forever.

Prepared with nothing but his integrity and a heart full of hope, Miles is praying for a miracle while Landon, forced to play a high stakes game of life-or-death, is asking himself if the love he has is enough to offer.

How did this story come to you?

Well I was at the mall and I spotted a gay couple that fit the description of Miles Turner and Landon Black, then I started running into idea after idea. I wondered what was going on in their minds, what kind of life they lived, what jobs they held. By the time I sat down to do a small plot outline, I had a great story mapped out. I dug deeper into my characters heads and listened to what my characters were saying and a great story came to life.

What compelled you to write it?

There are a couple of messages hidden between the lines that were influences from my personal life.

Who is your favorite character?

My favorite character is Landon Black. He is married to a defense attorney, Miles Turner, who is the other leading character. One of the reasons I like Landon most is his attitude. When he gets upset, the drama unfolds through each screeching angst filled statement. In ‘October Sun’ he is called on trying out for the Los Angeles Dodgers pitching staff, because with Landon Black, it’s no holds barred.

What was your favorite scene to write?

My favorite scene to write was the family reunion at Landon Black’s family ranch on the Grand Mesa wedged in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. In these scenes, I introduce some important characters that play out through the second half as well as I have written a family dinner scene that I’m certain everybody should be able to relate to in some form or another. There’s also a spot in those scenes that describe the book cover just perfectly.

How long did it take you to write the story?

“October Sun” took at least six months to be in completion.

When will it be released?

“October Sun” releases on January 11th from Rebel Ink Press. Your readers can check it and some other great titles out at their website: www.rebelinkpress.com .

How is it available?
It will be available as an e-book then released in a print anthology with the next two titles in the series, February Kin and December Man, in late 2011.

Where can we find it online, or if print, where?

October Sun will be available at ARe, http://www.allromanceebooks.com/ , Amazon, http://www.amazon.com/, Barnes and Noble, http://www.barnesandnoble.com/ , and a few other fine e-retailers.

What was your publishing experience like?
I submitted to Rebel Ink Press via a call for submissions on Facebook. I wouldn’t trade traditional publishing for anything. The amount of exposure and presentation is much greater than that of a self-published book. Another positive aspect to traditional publishing would be the quality of editing. There’s nothing better than having a polished manuscript.

Where else can we find you online?
People can reach me at my website and on Facebook at:

http://cravenheat.blogspot.com/

http://www.facebook.com/authorchriscraven

I also love to receive comments from readers. They can email me at: authorcraven@gmail.com

Do you have any other upcoming publicity events?

I plan on having a release party via Facebook that will point interested acquaintances to the appropriate purchase links and websites. If your readers are interested in joining me on Facebook, please direct them to http://www.facebook.com/authorchriscraven so they will see a link to the event.

Thank you Christopher, for stopping by. Congratulation on the release of your book!

Thank you Nanci for having me and I look forward to giving your readers something new and romantic to read.

"After All These Years" is a story of Faith and Fate

2011-01-06T08:24:00.000-08:00

If you like stories that explore the workings of fate, you'll love "After All These Years."

Trish Edmisten gives us characters with issues, past and present, and without losing us in too much detail still gives readers insight into why her characters do what they do.

She also reveals to us the working of fate in her characters lives, how their first meeting set the stage for so many events still to come. Even though life took them down different paths, they needed to go in those opposite directions to become the person the other would fall in love with.

Another book I couldn't put down. The story was engaging, that characters real, their story heartfelt.

This is one of four books Trish has published. I haven't read the others - YET. But I can say that "After All These Years" has made me a fan of Trish Edmisten.

Visit Trish online at www.trishedmisten.com

Nancy Lee Canfield shares her troubled life in "A Rose for My Mother"

2011-01-02T10:01:00.001-08:00

I really enjoyed "A Rose for My Mother," by Nancy Lee Canfield.

First, was her style of writing. To the point, without a lot of fluff - or over use of words. Period.

Second, was the story itself. Even though most of the events of this book took place in the early half of the last century, it's something we can all relate to - and should do our best to remember it. In today's world we forget so easily how hard times were not so long ago.

Some of you might recognize Nancy from her work as a "Sensitive," someone who can see into the spirit world. When I first started reading the book, I expected the story to be more about those experiences than about her childhood. But I was drawn in by the stories of her life, because again, the story is so well written.

After reading this book, I'm wondering if Nancy has others in the works, focusing more on her experiences with the spirit world. Given her style of writing, and the things she has probably experienced, I'm sure it would make for another great read.

Visit Nancy online at www.nancyleecanfield.com

After the Last PR by Dave Griffin

2010-12-29T08:41:00.000-08:00

What an inspiration this book is. And not just for runners.

Written as a collection of stories from the authors life, Mr. Griffin talks about his family, his friends and his career and how his dedication to and love of running helped him enjoy all those things.

As a novice runner myself, this book gave me inspiration and a feeling of acceptance. I am the only runner in my family, so when I talk about endorphins or the “need” to run, I get blank stares or shrugs and shaking heads. They don’t get it. They don’t understand that need to run.

Mr. Griffin does. And so do millions of other runner out there on the planet. Like in chapter five, the Chapter on Discipline. To a runner discipline is more than the act of running. It is the ritual of connecting with something larger than ourselves. The experience of the outdoors, of time and space that brings us back again and again, no matter how hot or cold it is. We go. We know that once we get moving, our bodies will adjust, we will complete our task at hand and return, refreshed and ready to face the day ahead. And because we have accomplished this task of running, we will accomplish our other tasks. This is something a runner knows.

I enjoyed this book for many reasons. First, as a runner, I could relate to the stories. Second, also as a runner, this book provides me with the inspiration I sometimes need to get my shoes on, get outside and run. Because like so many others out there, I don’t always feel like doing it. So I keep this book first by my shoes to remind me that I’m not the only one who can come up with reasons not to do it, and for all the reasons I should. Then after my run I keep it on my desk for more inspiration. I’m telling you, this is good stuff!

Blog Talk Radio is Making Changes

2010-12-26T12:06:00.000-08:00

In February 2011 Blog Talk Radio is going to change their membership policies, which could affect Page Readers.

I've been hosting Page Readers at Blog Talk Radio since March 2008. I've always used their free membership and have a wonderful experience with the service. Because I don't charge authors for being on the show or blog, the free membership at BTR worked for me.

They do offer a Revenue Sharing option, but to be honest, that isn't going to make me rich, or even pay a bill or two. Even though Page Readers is averaging 1,000+ listens per month the Revenue Sharing option nets me about $1.00 a month. And since their payout threshold is $25.00... you can see paychecks from BTR are few and far between.

So now they're telling me and all the other free members of the site that in order to continue using their service as is, we'll have to start paying for it. They are putting restrictions on the free membership: One show a day, no shows during "Prime Time," and no Private Episodes.

I will keep you all posted on this development. I don't think this will change the way I host Page Readers, as I can't imagine that noon on a weekday is "Prime Time," one show a day works for me, and I'm pretty sure I'm not hosting "Private Episodes," since all my shows are open to the public. We'll see.

In the meantime, I'm open to change. If any of you have a suggestion or use a different way to create your own podcasts, let me know. I have added other ways for authors to appear on and be promoted by Page Readers but I definitely want to continue offering live/recorded interviews because that really is the fun part of the work I do here.

Belinda Kroll talks Quirky Historical Fiction on Page Readers

2010-12-24T05:32:00.000-08:00

Belinda Kroll joined me on Page Readers to talk about her newest novel "Haunting Miss Trentwood."

Belinda describes her work as Quirky Historical Fiction because she adds in such interesting twists that she just can't call it regular historical fiction. After talking with her about her work, I'd say she's got it right.

Haunting Miss Trentwood is about a young woman who set aside her own life to take care of her father at the end of his life. Then during his funeral, his daughter sees him climb out of his casket and continues to have to deal with him and his fatherly input as she tries to get on with her life again. Sound quirky enough for you?

But, this wasn't even the best part of the interview! Belinda wrote and self published her first book, "Catching the Rose" almost a decade ago when she was in high school. In Internet speak, a decade ago is an eternity - I think we were still listening to dial tones that far back! And self publishing? It certainly wasn't as easy as CreateSpace is today!

Connect with Belinda online at www.worderella.com. See if you can keep up with this talented and driven author!

Harvey Stelman and Andy Nathan create "Eyes of Emerald"

2010-12-23T17:32:00.000-08:00

Listen to Harvey Stelman and Andy Nathan talk about their novel Eyes of Emerald.

These two were a lot of fun to talk with.

Eyes of Emerald started off as a story told by Harveys' father. As Harvey put it, "a two minute story" about a relative and her extraordinary life, that captured his imagination enough that he retold the story to Andy and the two of them brought the story to life by adding in a bit of historical fiction.

I especially liked hearing Andy talk about their decision to self-publish this book. Once they had it done, they didn't want to wait for a traditional publisher. And, because self publishing has become so easy to do, they felt this was the best avenue for their work. Love it!

Visit them on the web at http://www.eyesofemerald.com/

Anjuelle Floyd Discusses Relationships of the Heart in "The House"

2010-12-18T08:51:00.000-08:00

Anjuelle Floyd joined me on Page Readers to discuss her new release "The House."

In her second release, author Anjuelle Floyd poses the question: Could you care for your dying ex-spouse? I think the second part of that question should be, and do it with grace and dignity?

The House is a complex story of Ana who must come to terms with her own anger towards her ex-husband as she helps care for him in the last weeks of his life. Along the way she learns how her marriage has affected her children and their relationships, and now she must help them unlearn their own patterns of dysfunction.

In the end, well, I guess I can't tell you about the end. You'll just have to read it for yourself!

Anjuelle just finished up a November blog tour, where she was able to really connect with her readers. She said it was fun, she learned a lot about what her fans like and interestingly, a lot about her characters. Check out her website at http://www.anjuellefloyd.com/ where she has links to the tour and so much more.

And be sure to watch for upcoming events Anjuelle has planned!

Susannah Raulino shares her skills in "It Writes Itself"

2010-12-15T12:01:00.000-08:00

This one is for all you authors out there.

Susannah Raulino stopped by Page Readers to discuss her book, "It Writes Itself, A Traveling Guide to Writing Fiction."

"It Writes Itself" began as a class syllabus that Susannah was teaching on creative writing. As the class progressed and ideas were added, she realized this information needed to be shared with more than just her students.

As an improv actress, Susannah realizes the need for inspiration and sometimes even that gentle push that brings on creativity. While up on stage her troupe takes suggestions from the audience, creates a play and then acts it out - on the spot!

Doing this taught Susannah that sometimes stories have their own purpose and characters want to tell their own tales. Sometimes, an author is nothing more than a scribe, just taking down the events as they happen around them.

It's an interesting thought. So many authors get caught up in telling their story that they don't realize what they've created can tell it from a better perspective. I've had other authors tell me that too - their characters take on a life of their own, and tell them, the author, their story. And when the author finally gave up control and just listened to those voices, the story wrote itself. And turned out better than expected.

So, if you're an author looking for a way out of your creative funk, or you've come to a point where writing isn't fun anymore or you are in need of stretching those creative wings, I highly recommend Susannah's book. I found it to be unique, inspiring, fun and most importantly - different from all the other "how to" books on writing.

Visit Susannah online at www.raulinobooks.com for more about this fabulous book and talented author.

All The Way from Switzerland: Page Readers presents author Carolyn Moncel

2010-12-13T07:52:00.000-08:00

What a treat! Today author Carolyn Moncel joins us to talk about her book "Encounters in Paris."

Welcome Carolyn! Please introduce yourself!
Currently, we are a family of expatriates! We moved overseas from Chicago, my hometown in 2002 and for exactly five years, I got to be “An American in Paris.” When my husband accepted a job offer in Paris, I packed up my two daughters (ages 5 and 2 weeks at the time), my business, a dog and a cat and joined him! I’ve been living in Lausanne, Switzerland since 2007 with my husband Philippe, two daughters Chloe and Jillian and a very, very old cat called Poeme.

When I am not writing fiction I’m a bit of “Jill of all trades.” I run two companies with offices in Chicago, Paris and Geneva: MotionTemps, LLC (www.motiontemps.com) a bilingual Digital Project and Web Content Management firm, and its subsidiary, Mondavé Communications (www.mondaveinc.com), a media relations training and now, publishing company.

Like the character in the book, Ellery, I had a pretty typical childhood growing up Catholic on Chicago’s southwest side. My dad was a factory worker and my mom a cashier in a department store. Unfortunately, my dad died when I was four years old, so most of my life, it was just my mom and my two other brothers.

I come from a family of story tellers – my parents, grandparents, uncles, aunts, cousins, brothers, etc. With my brother, Kirk’s help, I think I wrote my first story at age four or five. I could read some but I couldn’t write very well yet. It was a story about a snake named Sammy. My mother remembered it as being something pretty special; I just thought it would be cool to have a snake. I think I kept reading and writing out of boredom. In my neighborhood, there just weren’t very many girls around; and the boys didn’t want me around. Writing allowed me to create my own world and keep myself entertained.

I can’t remember when I started writing stories, but I do remember when and why I stopped. While in college I discovered what George Orwell meant by, “writing being “a horribly exhausting struggle.” So I put it aside briefly and concentrated more on journalism and public relations. Even then, my attraction to those disciplines had to be related to storytelling. I graduated from Loyola University Chicago with a BA in Communications; with a minor in political science in 1991. From there I bounced around from PR and Advertising agencies to dot.com companies, finally deciding to open my own company, MotionTemps. It wasn’t until we moved overseas that I started writing again seriously.

What is your story about?

Well, Encounters in Paris is a collection of short stories. There are five stories that all center around Ellery Roulet, a 35-year-old African-American who lives and works in Paris. Ellery thinks she has everything. She is married to handsome French guy, has twin daughters and runs a successful bilingual PR firm in one of Paris’ trendiest parts of town. Unfortunately, Ellery soon realizes that life isn’t always so perfect. In one story she loses her job, in another she finds out her husband is having an affair, and yet in another she deals with the death of her mother. She realizes that life can be quite messy; some problems can be solved while others can’t and that’s okay.

How did this story come to you?

The inspiration came from observing life in general while living and working in Paris. Expatriate life is hard, and I wanted to address some of the more common scenarios but through the eyes of this character, Ellery. Originally, I envisioned the project as a novel, but somehow, I just could never finish it. When a friend back in Chicago suggested that I break up the novel into shorter stories, the ideas really starting flowing.

What compelled you to write it?

I finally had something to say. It helped that I didn’t have any real expectations other than to just publish something.

Who is your favorite character?

The main character, Ellery without a doubt, is my favorite character. There is so much more to her personality waiting to be explored, and I am really looking forward to expanding her experiences in future projects. Once again, she is not me entirely, but definitely, there are aspects of my personality, along with others, reflected in her. But her actions are all her own.

Do you have a favorite story and why?

I love all of the stories but I think my favorite story to write was Some Birds of a Feather. I think I like it so much because it’s a tribute to my mother who passed away in 2006. She was a character in her own right and because of her life growing up on the Mississippi Delta, she could spin some yarns better than William Falkner or Flannery O’Connor. The pigeons are real. There are two of them that sit on my kitchen window sill right now. For me, losing both of my parents, it’s just comforting to imagine that these two pigeons are there to watch over me. It’s a feel- good story.

What was your favorite scene to write?

I have two favorite scenes. In the story, Pandora’s Box Revisited, I really enjoyed detailing the interaction between Ellery and her husband French husband, Julien. In the other, A Brief Indiscretion, I liked exploring Ellery’s relationship with a long-lost lover. In the passages involving Julien, it was really important for me not to portray him as a bad guy or jerk. Also, I wanted to prove that Ellery was just as flawed as any other character in the book or as any human being is in general. On the one hand, two wrongs never make a right but on the other hand, when you’ve been betrayed by a spouse, sometimes it really just sucks to always take the “high road.” I would imagine that you’d want some kind of revenge. We all make mistakes for any number of reasons, but the act may not make us bad people necessarily.

Is there a back story for A Haunting in Courbevoie?

Actually, there is a back story to A Haunting in Courbevoie. Of all of the stories written, A Haunting in Courbevoie and Some Birds of a Feather contain the most truthful information. While living in Paris in 2006, my mother did pass away suddenly, during the early morning hours. When one loses a parent, it’s very scary. It is especially so for expatriates because you live so far away and there is nothing you can do about it. You feel guilty for not being where you ought to be, so I could really relate to Ellery’s feelings. At the time, I did live in the town of Courbevoie, which is just two metro stops outside of Paris, near the business district, La Defense. There was an old Catholic Church in my neighborhood call Saint Pierre Saint Paul. On the morning that my mother died, I did visit the church and encounter a figure, much like the one described in the story. I cannot say for certain whether or not the woman was a ghost, but I can say that I had never seen her before that day, and I have never seen her since. So I let others draw their conclusions.

How long did it take you to write the story?

After nearly eight years of procrastination it only took me two months to write the book actually. I wrote on the weekends. Over the years, I had been writing snippets here and there – on napkins; on the inside cover of books, but nothing cohesive. Then one day, with a really big push from family and friends both overseas and back home, I realized that I needed to finish at least one story. But to do so, I had to admit that I wasn't really interested in writing a novel at all. I just wanted to tell some good stories. Once I made peace with that revelation, the pressure was off and I could concentrate on writing short stories with connecting characters and themes.

When was it released?
Encounters in Paris – A Collection of Short Stories was released on November 5, 2010.

Where can we find it? Online, book stories, your website?

Now, it is widely available on at many online bookstores in a variety of different formats. For example, the paperback version is available online directly at CarolynMoncel.com, as well as online book retailers, Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com and GoodReads.com and soon on Google Books and Borders.com. Customers can read excerpts. Encounters in Paris is also available in all digital formats as an e-book at Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com, GoodReads.com and Smashwords.com and soon iBook.com. On Amazon.com for instance, customers can even choose to download the entire eBook or purchase an individual story as flash fiction. In January 2011, some eBook sets will contain bonus stories and previews of the next book. Also in January 2011, a shorter, three-story audio book version of Encounters in Paris will be available on Amazon.com, Audible.com and also PodioBooks.com.

What was your publishing experience like?
The publishing experience so far has been awesome. It is has been an exciting experience and I learn something new every day. In my case, I didn’t bother sending out query letters to publishers or agents simply because through my research, I knew that most would not be interested in a collection of short stories. However, I also believe there is a huge disconnect between publishers and readers. There is a market for this type of work, especially in this increasingly mobile world in which we live, and that was enough for me to move forward anyway – despite the risks. I purposely decided to self publish because I wanted to have more control over my work. I had watched other friends and colleagues self publish with relative success. Each year it becomes easier and more affordable to self publish so I figured if I could create a high-quality work, it was worth a try.

Did your background in media help you with your decision to self publish?

Yes, I think my background in media and web consulting has been very helpful but it hasn’t made the journey that much easier. Breaking into the publishing world is tough. I am still learning so much about that world, and well, self publishing is its own animal. At first, I was a really overwhelmed by the entire project. Then one day, I decided to calm down and do one thing at a time. As I worked through the project, I realized that everything that I’ve needed done with this project, I have already done at some point in my career. I have prepared layouts for client manuscripts; I have edited books and other documents; I have written and assembled media kits; I have built and coded websites and last I have pitched stories to the media. I figured if I could do these things for my clients, then I could do it for myself. That has been a huge comfort as I continue to progress and learn. For other authors who find themselves in the same situation, they should learn to trust their instincts because they have way more skills than they ever imagined and that’s exciting. The only thing that I would have done differently is I would have planned the release. Out of sheet excitement, I violated my own rules of PR!  Once I started writing and finished the collection, I forgot to plan out some of the marketing, like acquiring reviews in advance. Now that I know what is expected, I will take what I’ve learned and do a better job with my second work.

Are you working on any new projects?

Yes, I am working on a new collection of short stories called Five Reasons to Leave a Lover. It will be out in fall 2011. One day recently, I was walking down the street and heard Paul Simon’s song, “50 Ways to Leave a Lover.” I thought, well that song is only half right. The ways in which to leave a lover are infinite, but the reasons are pretty finite. At the end of the day, it usually boils down to death, divorce, cheating, deception, and ambivalence. So I decided to write a fresh batch of stories surrounding these themes and Ellery and Julien Roulet from Encounters in Paris return in this series, providing further explanation into their story, but there are new characters as well.

Where we can we find you online?
Follow me on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/carolyn.moncel;
Join the Encounters in Paris Fan Page: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/Encounters-in-Paris-A-Collection
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/motiontemps;
and on Twitter: http://twitter.com/carolynmoncel

What other publicity events are in your future?

I have some book signings planned in both Paris and Geneva, Switzerland in January 2011. The exact dates will be available soon so please check http://www.carolynmoncel.com/ for more details.

Thank you so much for sharing your story with Page Readers! Thank you for allowing me an opportunity to share my story with your readers. It was such a treat and continued success!

Accidental Author Gary Turcotte visit Page Readers

2010-12-09T08:22:00.000-08:00

Author Gary Turcotte stopped by to answer some questions about his newest book "Monster Heart."

Welcome Gary.

So, when did you start writing?

Although I've published 11 books since 2008, I really don't consider myself a writer. I didn't set out to publish any. I don't know where the stories come from......I got divorced when my daughter was 10. I was lucky enough to get full custody. I bought her a computer for school work, but the nights that she was away at her mother's house, I spent in the den writing stories to escape the loneliness. One manuscript rolled into another and soon there were five.

What made you decide to pursue getting them published?

I met a woman whose passion was to be an author, but she struggled to get three chapters written in four years. I told her I had written five books by accident, I showed her my hobble books, sitting on a shelf in the basement. She found Outskirts Press and encouraged me to publish them.

Tell us about this latest book.

Monster Heart is the story about a High School football star that turns to drugs to enhance his game. He experiments with steroids and other mind altering drugs. He loses his High School sweetheart, to drugs and alcohol. Francis mixed any drugs that he can get his hands on; risking his mental and physical health. He became delusional and he can't distinguish what is real or part of his drug induced illusions. He's involved in heinous crimes that he has trouble remembering. Pimples, cyst, cuts, and dark circles under his eyes, make him look like the monster that the drugs have created. The terrible reality is that this story is happening to today’s youth. The Monster lurks nearby. Don't let it get your children!

Who was your favorite character to create?

My favorite character is Francis, he's a focused football star, but his friend and workout partner Patrick was a bad influence. Francis' mother pampered him, and showed support-------he reveals his soft side. He had a big heart and once he saw the damage he had done to his family, he went to all cost to make things right.

What was your favorite scene to write?

My favorite scene is when Francis is high on a mixture of pills and alcohol; he runs the railroad tracks in the center of town until he's caught in a downpour. He hides in a neighbor's shed-------the storm intensifies and he watched the rain through a knot hole in the wall. Thunder and lightning roll in with the storm and Francis is terrified. He thinks the lightning will hit his eye while he watches it. He panics and breaks out of the shed running for his life. I liked seeing the big monster frightened by nature------besides Frankenstein and lightning are a must in this story, but not in a corny way with electrodes and operating table.

Are these characters new to the Frankenstein story?

Yes. All the characters are mine and fictional.

Why the new twist on an old story?

I used the iconic Frankenstein to attract readers, (every writer wants to be read) I used a play on words and my character was Frank N. Stein. A modern day monster------ the monster is really drug addiction, and happening to a super sized athlete with stars in his eyes. I didn't want to write a remake, or take away from the Frankenstein of yesterday. I just wanted to use similarities of the two, and trust me when I say that Francis Norman Stein is truly a monster and not a let down to anyone expecting to read a monster story.

Is there a message in this story?

The message in MONSTER HEART -------Even the mighty can fall. Those thought to have it all fall prey to drugs and bad influence. Francis' choices affected everyone-----his mother,father, friends and neighbors.

Why this topic?

I chose the topic of prescription drug edition to turn a once ambitious teenager into a monster because it’s happening daily to families----people can relate. The best fiction stories are believable, interesting, entertaining and not too predictable.

Do you have anything new in the works?

I have a 12th book in production with Outskirts, it should be released by Jan 2011 titled “Tom and the Troubled Teens: Suicide Seth” Tom is unemployed, his benefits run out and he takes a job as a substitute teacher at a private school. The guidance councilor gets caught drunk driving and is forced to resign. Tom is asked to fill his spot and soon discovers secret files about the most troubled teens. He stumbles onto an online suicide club that some of the students frequent. One student 'Seth' poses as a councilor on the site and advises kids to confront their fears and end their lives. Tom is not a trained councilor and doesn't know what to do. He confides in the Principal, but she is aware of the problem and wants it swept under the rug since the school is funded by tuition and donations by alumni. The reputation for a safe and mentally stable school population is the most important thing to her, even if it's not so.

I have another one half done, targeted for March release 2011 'Brutus the Baby Snatcher.'

Where else can we find you on the web?

I will have Facebook up and running soon. I'm new at it; hopefully I'll be a quick learner.

Sounds like an interesting story! Thanks so much for stopping by Page Readers!

The Power of Receiving by Amanda Owen

2010-12-06T12:48:00.000-08:00

Author Amanda Owen joined me on Page Readers today to discuss her new book "The Power of Receiving."

This book is POWERFUL. There is no other way to describe it.

We are all taught to give, to be kind to others, do for others. What we are not taught is how to receive when what we give is given back to us.

Think about how you respond to a compliment. Someone likes your blouse, your shoes or your hair. How do you respond? With a "Thank You," or "Oh, this old thing?"

It is the same with our goals. If we are not open to receiving them, then our goal will feel unwelcome and move on. We must be open and aware to receiving our goals when they come to us, regardless of how they come to us.

And believe it or not, there are so many things we do subconsciously to keep our goals from reaching us! Amanda shines a light on these "monsters" and helps us deal with all the things we keep in the closet that keep us from our dreams.

The Power of Receiving will help you learn with simple exercises designed to teach the act of receiving. While you are charting out your New Year's Resolutions, be sure to add this book to your wish list. It will help you achieve your goals this year and beyond!

Visit Amanda on the web to learn more about this exciting book!

"Killer Recipes" raises money for Cancer Research

2010-12-05T13:58:00.000-08:00

Hi Friends,

Do you like to cook? Are you always on the hunt for new and delicious recipes? If so, I have great news for you. Killer Recipes is a combined effort of writers of Mystery, Murder & Mayhem around the world who’ve come together in support for the American Cancer Society. We have all been touched by this dreaded disease and it's a wonderful feeling being able to contribute toward its cure. I do hope you will consider joining us in our effort to help find a cure or to help those suffering from cancer.

Author Catherine Chisnall releases "Descending"

2010-12-04T08:04:00.000-08:00

Today I bring you an interview with author Catherine Chisnall who shares with us her newest release "Descending."

Welcome Catherine! Tell us a little about you and your background.
I was born in the Midlands of England and now live with my husband and child in the South. I have had a varied career working in banks, libraries, charities and for the last 10 years, secondary and further education.

I am now a full time mum after trying for a few years to ‘job share’ with my husband (we both worked outside the home part time and looked after our daughter part time). That was exhausting, it turns out it is easier for one partner to be full time parent and one partner to be full time career worker. So I also have time to write while at home, which is wonderful.

For many years, I ignored the desire to write, thinking it wasn’t a valid career but can’t ignore it anymore. I have had several factual articles published and this has given me the confidence to publish some of my fiction.

My articles: http://www.wikinut.com/author~whmd/CatherineC/

What is your story about?

My story is called Descending, it is about inappropriate relationships. I have realized over my life that relationships are never straightforward, they often do not fit into conventional categories. The synopsis is:

Emily is a lonely, disillusioned, teaching assistant at a college of Further Education (for over 16 year olds). Jamie is a neglected, unpredictable student. Trapped together in a falling lift, wherever will this lead? Told from Emily's point of view, this story explores the ambiguity of relationships between staff and students, and reflects on who is actually in control.

How did this story come to you?

It was a combination of things really: news stories, gossip, my own observations. Years ago, I watched documentary about a teacher and 15 year old boy- a black and white situation because she was obviously in the wrong. But I wondered what sort of person she was to get involved with him: she seemed lonely, misguided, unwise. It's an occupational hazard for female staff to be propositioned by boys: most just laugh it off, so why did she succumb?

What compelled you to write it?

There are loads of stories about teachers having relationships with students, but I wondered what about learning support assistants?

They are more likely to cross the boundary with students because they sit amongst them. It's their job to develop supportive relationships with them, so some are bound to go astray. Teachers are removed, in control at the head of the class, so I think they are less likely to get involved.

I've heard of learning support assistants having difficulty working with older boys because they're attracted to them. I've observed young learning support assistants being flattered by boys flirting with them. So a relationship could quite easily start. It's a very grey area. Especially if the boy was over 16, but under 18, which is why I made Jamie seventeen.

I wanted to explore what would really happen if this sort of relationship actually took place. It wouldn’t be all hearts and flowers and happily ever after, would it?

I also wanted to set the story in a post 16 environment. In schools, you can go to the head of year and they will tell the boys off if they act inappropriately. But in post 16 colleges there is less of a ‘chain of command’, so if staff are harassed, they could be unsure where to turn.

Who is your favorite character?

Probably Jamie because I can sympathise more with him. He has a terrible life, he just wants a break from it. I don’t condemn Emily really, she is a lost, misguided and lonely woman who in turn wants a break from that.

What was your favorite scene to write?

The scene where Emily and Jamie go to the gay club and get found out by some other college students. I found that scene quite funny as it shows how homophobic and immature Jamie is, plus there is the air of danger as now their affair is becoming public knowledge.

How long did it take you to write the story?

About one month. It was a dark, cold winter and I was feeling bleak and as if I had nothing to look forward to in life. So I wrote a bleak and cold story. Its not long, it’s a novella, so its not like I’m a high speed writer however.

What has the reaction been to the controversial aspects of your story?

I can honestly say I've had a different reaction from every reader, which is better than I‘d hoped for.

I've had:

'Emily is wrong, she should go to prison.'

'But who is abusing who here? Isn't it mutual?'

'What an unlikely, boring story.'

‘I was rooting for them all the way through.’

Some have said Jamie is smooth and knows exactly what he's doing.

Some have said Emily is a horrible person with no redeeming features.

I suppose the majority of readers have felt sorry for Emily, however, and related to her situation. I don't mean they want to have affairs with 17 year olds! But she seems to be a character that women, especially, can sympathise with. I didn't expect that. I thought everyone would say she was wrong and should go to prison.

When was it released?
July 2010.

How is it available?

Print and e-book.

Where can we find it?

Descending is available on Amazon, Smashwords (and all its distribution channels) and Createspace.

What was your publishing experience like?
I sent a couple of query letters and emails to mainstream publishers but heard nothing. Then I decided to put Descending onto one of the online critiquing sites.

I chose Authonomy, and although I didn’t get to the Editors Desk, I got incredibly useful constructive criticism. I then put it on Slushpile Reader and Night Reading. Both sites promise that the most popular books will be published.

Night Reading is the social arm of the company Night Publishing and holds a monthly competition where the most popular books are voted on and the winner gets published.

I didn’t win the monthly competition, but luckily the Night Publishing editors also decide which books they would personally like to publish. And Descending was chosen!

So Night Publishing paid for publishing via Createspace.

Would I have done it differently? Well I haven’t had any money from the books yet, but I wouldn’t do it differently because I am so happy to have some published books and be a published author. I have had mainly good reviews, so that is very satisfying.

Where we can we find you online
www.catherinechisnall.co.uk (my blog)

I am searchable as Catherinewrites on Twitter

Do you have upcoming publicity events you'd like to share?
The sequel to ‘Descending’ has just been published by Night Publishing. It is called ‘Surfacing’ and is the further adventures of Emily and Jamie, bringing their story to a conclusion. So many people said ‘aw, poor Emily, what happens to her next?’ that I wrote a sequel. I am amazed that she gained so much sympathy from readers, I didn’t expect it.

‘Surfacing’ is available in the same places as ‘Descending’ i.e. Amazon, Smashwords and all its distribution channels, Createspace.

My publisher also decided to put ‘Descending’ and ‘Surfacing’ in a compendium, conveniently called ‘Descending Surfacing’. This is also available from the same places.

Congratulations Catherine! And thank you so much for stopping by Page Readers to share your story.

Keeping in Touch: Feed Burner or Feed Blitz?

2010-12-02T05:38:00.000-08:00

Hello to all my wonderful authors, guests, fans and followers!

As with anything that happens on the web, change is inevitable. Same goes for Page Readers.

I've been doing a lot of research into the best way to get the word out, keep you informed and of course, promote the authors who honor me with their appearance on Page Readers.

For some time now I've been using Feed Blitz to send out weekly blog updates to everyone who subscribes. In some ways it has worked well, in others not so well.

During the course of my reading and research to keep up with the changes that seem to occur daily online, I've read that Feed Burner is a better way to go.

The point of this post? I would love to get some feed back from any of you who use Feed Blitz or Feed Burner to promote your sites. What do you use? What do you like, and what don't you like, about either of them?

Do you like getting the once a week update, or would you prefer to get updates sent to your RSS Reader as they happen?

I welcome your emails and/or comments left here on the blog. Comments could help others with their own RSS/Promotion issues. If you have done your own research, please share! I also welcome links to other information out there - books, articles other blogs!

Robert C David, The Undaunted Life

2010-12-01T16:01:00.000-08:00

So many books have been written on the subject of building a successful life, perseverance and determination, but none tell the story like Bob David in “The Undaunted Life.”

Mr. David points out the important, teaches us to let go of the unimportant and tells touching stories of his own journey along the way.

The best part of this book is that it is fun to read. Because of Mr. David’s ability to talk to the reader in an intimate way, the information is easily absorbed, understood and put to use in everyday life.

You don’t need to be in the financial industry as Mr. David was to enjoy the book, or learn from it. The tips are more than tips, they’re steps to help anyone to create habits that will lead to success in any area of one’s life to which they are applied.

This is a book that I will recommend to many people around me. From the stay at home mom raising the future leaders of life, to the business professionals seeking to raise their level of success, this book is a must read.

Visit Mr. David on line at http://bobdavidlive.com/

And to see Mr. David in action as "Bob as Bill" watch this video. Pretty cool stuff!

Holiday Savings offered by author Mark McGinty for his book "The Cigar Maker"

2010-11-29T16:26:00.000-08:00

Mark McGinty joined me on Page Readers a few months ago to talk about his novel "The Cigar Maker."

Today he sent me an email offering this Holiday Special:

From now until Christmas “The Cigar Maker” by Mark McGinty is 30% off at the official site. Makes a great gift for the book lover, history buff or cigar smoker in your life!! http://www.thecigarmaker.net/store.php 10% of the proceeds will be donated to the United Way.

I hope you all stop by his website and support this fabulous author!

Aggie Villanueva author of "The Rewritten Word"

2010-11-29T15:52:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone! I have something a little different for you all this time, a Video Interview. Isn't technology wonderful?

My good friend and best selling author, Aggie Villanueva has written a how to book about an all important part of writing, rewriting. In "The Rewritten Word," Aggie explains the importance of rewriting what you've created.

I hope you like the video! And if you've like to do a video interview for Page Readers, send me an email. I'd love to host your smiling face on the blog!

Here you go:

Liliana Badd discusses "EXIT"

2010-11-28T19:18:00.000-08:00

Author Liliana Badd joined me on Page Readers to discuss her novel, "EXIT."

Interviews with authors like Liliana Badd are what make doing Page Readers so much fun.

Lilana is not just an author. She is more than a survivor. She is someone who lives life with passion and compassion, never giving up no matter the circumstances and sees the silver lining in every cloud.

Her book "EXIT" is one of her many accomplishments in life. She dreamed of becoming an author like so many other do, but she has done it, and done it with passion.

Visit Liliana on the web at http://exitlilianabadd.com/

Nancy Lynn Jarvis author of "Buying Murder"

2010-11-28T19:10:00.000-08:00

Author Nancy Lynn Jarvis stopped by Page Readers to discuss her latest work "Buying Murder."

The real estate market is a mess. What’s a Realtor® to do? One twenty year veteran of the industry, Nancy Lynn Jarvis, is writing murder mysteries set in Santa Cruz County instead of selling houses.“Real estate is an interesting business,” the author says. “The stress level involved in buying or selling a home ranks right after death and divorce. People reveal a lot about themselves during the process. The business attracts its share of colorful practitioners, too.” Their stories and Nancy’s experiences provide the settings where her realtor and part-time sleuth, Regan McHenry, works while she unravels mysteries. Find her online at http://www.goodreadmysteries.com/

Nancy is one of those people who did something she dreamed of doing after someone told her she couldn't possibly succeed at it. I love that kind of spirit! Taking on that challenge has paid off in so many ways too. Not only does she write wicked murder mysteries, she's reading them to a seniors group who hang on every word!