Sandra Cox's Blog, page 307
October 15, 2011
Word for the Day: Outlier
What does Outlier mean? An outlier basically skews numbers. Its the sample maximum and sample minimum. In writers parlance, example of outliers might be: Stephen King, Norah Roberts, James Patterson and Stephanie Meyer. Wikipedia, says ' In statistics, an outlier is an observation that is numerically distant from the rest of the data. Yup that still fits in our writer's scenario.
Okay, what are the causes of outliers? As far as our author outliers, I'd have to say damn fine writing, though that wasn't mentioned on Wiki:) One of Wikipedia's thoughts: A sample may have been contaminated with elements from outside the population being examined. Hmm, translation, our author outliers must think outside the box.
Wiki talked about 'fat tails' in outliers non normal distribution. Nope not touching that one other than to say its a large skew. Or maybe that should be large tales?
I'm going to end with another Wiki quote on outliers that I felt was apropos to our top notch writers:
"Caution:Unless it can be ascertained that the deviation is not significant, it is ill-advised to ignore the presence of outliers. Outliers that cannot be readily explained demand special attention."
Information on the word outlier found at:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Outlier
Picture from:
www.i-love-cats.com
Outlier
What does Outlier mean? An outlier basically skews numbers. Its the sample maximum and sample minimum. In writers parlance, example of outliers might be: Stephen King, Norah Roberts, James Patterson and Stephanie Meyer. Wikipedia, says ' In statistics, an outlier is an observation that is numerically distant from the rest of the data. Yup that still fits in our writer's scenario.
Okay, what are the causes of outliers? As far as our author outliers, I'd have to say damn fine writing, though that wasn't mentioned on Wiki:) One of Wikipedia's thoughts: A sample may have been contaminated with elements from outside the population being examined. Hmm, translation, our author outliers must think outside the box.
Wiki talked about 'fat tails' in outliers non normal distribution. Nope not touching that one other than to say its a large skew. Or maybe that should be large tales?
I'm going to end with another Wiki quote on outliers that I felt was apropos to our top notch writers:
"Caution:Unless it can be ascertained that the deviation is not significant, it is ill-advised to ignore the presence of outliers. Outliers that cannot be readily explained demand special attention."
Information on the word outlier found at:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Outlier
Picture from:
www.i-love-cats.com
October 14, 2011
Being A Writer
October 12, 2011
Celtic Thunder
October 11, 2011
October 9, 2011
Gordon Kessler
Welcome, Gordon. Before we get started I'd just like to say, I love the premise of your book. And it always fun to meet another person in the community college system.
Please tell us about Jezebel.
[Gordon Kessler] Thanks for hosting me on your really neat blog, Sandra!
The Halloween season is the perfect time to promote my suspense thriller Jezebel. It's not just another Cujo—as a matter of fact, the only thing they have in common is that the book's namesake is a huge dog whose mind has come under control of an outside source and has killed its master. Initially, the reader will find true horror with Jezebel. But while exploring the character, empathy with her is inevitable while discovering a kind of depth unlike any other character they've read.
Animals are like special children. They're all basically good and they don't intend to do wrong. They want to live and be happy and their basic values and morals are as high or higher than any adult human—until those values and morals have been corrupted. Jezebel is a good dog, sensitive and gentle as a butterfly. But after her mind is corrupted, she struggles throughout the story to bring herself back to the norm.
Tony Parker has his own issues. He's a faithful family man, handing a midlife crisis as good as most men can. That changes when Jezebel goes on the loose, and other large dogs begin attacking their masters for no apparent cause. Tony relies heavily on his beautiful and seductive assistant Sarah to help stop the murderous attacks. But something seems to get ahold of him, as well, and he begins to lose self-control as his morals wander while leaning a little too heavily on the lovely young vixen.
Julie Parker is the steadfast wife. She knows what she wants, and has worked hard for
it: a normal life. She's strong but feminine, and couldn't be a better mother to their young son and infant daughter. But, when "normal life" isn't an option and Jezebel seems to be stalking her and her children as well, Julie digs in and prepares for the fight of her life. Doc and Patsy White Cloud are like parents to Tony and seem to be his only anchor to reality. Along with the White Clouds, Tony's old friend Lt. Jack Simpson try to help solve the mystery and steer Tony straight—until they all become victims of the plot.But what evil has come to town to tear all their lives apart—and what could possibly be its motive? You'll find out when you read Jezebel. But you won't know the whole story until you've read the final words.
Why did you choose a great dane for your killer?
[Gordon Kessler] Great Danes are beautiful dogs. They're herculean in size and power, yet super loyal, very gentle, unassuming and many times timid. To corrupt the mind of something so gentle yet so awesome in potential power, is about as frightening to me as it gets: your loyal best friend and trusted bodyguard, armed to the teeth, suddenly gone berserk….
What will I as a reader like best about your main male character, Tony Parker?
[Gordon Kessler] Tony is a great guy and family man. He's a loyal friend, generally easy going—the guy everyone loves. But his temples are showing a little grey, and he isn't where he'd like to be professionally. He's focused on family up to now, and sacrificed considerable without complaint. I think male readers can easily identify with Tony. Female readers seem to find him the kind of guy they should have married. But, in a thriller, you have to push buttons, and his buttons are pushed to the limit. He reacts, not always the way you wish he would, and you'll hope he comes through this incredible plot a better man—if he survives.
How will women identify with beautiful, seductive Sarah Hill?
[Gordon Kessler] Sarah is the girl that guys wish they could find—especially when going through a midlife crisis. The motivation isn't obvious for most, but an estranged father and abusive relationships could be suggested. Sarah is smart and is passionate about her job. In her personal life, she takes what she wants and uses her assets to their fullest. I think most women readers would like to try on Sarah Hill's shoes just to see what it's like to leave inhibitions behind, even if only for a day or two.
Who is your favorite author?
[Gordon Kessler] I can't name just one. I love thrillers, but not heavy horror. I'm after the suspense and gamut of emotions—a roller coaster ride. I also like to learn new things, understand life's workings better. The ones who take me on the most exciting and educational ride are: Douglas Preston, James Rollins, Clive Cussler, Dean Koontz and some James Patterson (Alex Cross books) and Stephen King.
What books of yours are currently for sale and where can a reader buy them?
[Gordon Kessler] All three of my thrillers and a couple of short stories are currently on sale as eBooks for only $.99 (just to get those numbers up and to reward my readers for their loyalty). Of course, they're also available as hardcover and paperback. You can find them on Amazon, B&N, Kobo, iBooks, Sony—all the major online bookstores including my Amazon author's page at: http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B005HL46E8, as well as www.ReadersMatrix.com. Also, you can check out the Jezebel and Brainstorm book trailers on YouTube at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_zHD9p... and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6eDjWJ....
By the way, I'm currently working on sequels for all three thrillers. Find out a little more at www.GordonKessler.com and provide feedback/input on my blog at www.WMxBlog.com. Please check them out.
Of course, you can always email me at gordon[at]gordonkessler[dot]com. Please drop me a line!
I hear you've got a great giveaway. Please tell the readers about it and how they can get in on it.
[Gordon Kessler] I'm giving away a $50 Amazon gift certificate to a randomly chosen blogger at the end of my Jezebel blog tour. Let's hope they buy my books with at least some of it! Thanks again for hosting me, Sandra! It's been a pleasure, Gordon.
You're most welcome, Gordon. Wishing you many sales on this fascinating book.
Blurb:
Sleep lightly tonight…
A madman has come to town seeking a diabolical revenge and large dogs begin attacking their masters for no apparent reason and with heinous results.
Animal Control Director Tony Parker must find out why and stop the murderous attacks. Meanwhile, Jezebel, a huge black Great Dane has killed her master and is loose, terrorizing the city and stalking Parker and his family. Parker and Sarah Hill, his beautiful and seductive young assistant, attempt to unravel the mystery and stop the terrible carnage while dealing with their own demons and lusty desires.
The attacks must be stopped. Jezebel must be found-and soon, you see--there is one other complication. Parker seems to have come down with an annoying little virus. No, it's not one of those irritating summer colds. It's certain death.
She's a murderess, huge and black as a hell-bound night.
Beware. Jez
ebel is on the loose!
Excerpt:
Hill went to the front door and watched Chin's van make a U-turn at the corner and head down the street. The headlights flashed in Hill's face, momentarily blinding her. She winced. The light burned her already blood-shot, weary eyes.
A silent moment passed before a sound came from outside. The back yard. Scratching. Something was climbing over the fence.
The rifle. It was still next to the back door. Hill moved quickly toward the kitchen. As she made it to the hall, the dog port began to open. Hill stepped to the side, out of sight, before seeing what was coming through.
She trembled, backing up to the wall next to the large window that was painted shut. She could run for the door, but by the time she reached it, she'd be seen. No way out. Hide. Where? There was no place. Behind the sheer curtain, maybe. In the dark, she might not be seen if she was quiet and didn't move.
She pulled the curtain around her. She could see through it, but it made the already dim room even dimmer. The blowing fan was the only noise. Nothing moved except the oscillating shadows of the fan blades beating the stale air through the room. The green flash of the clock on the CD player caused an eerie, strobing light.
A dark shape slowly emerged from the hallway and moved into the room. Large. Huge. Black.
Author bio: Gordon A Kessler is a former US Marine parachutist, recon scout, and Super Squad team leader, with a bachelor's degree in creative writing. He is a Master Instructor for Johnson County Community College, National Academy of Railroad Sciences, and the BNSF Railway. He has taught novel writing for Butler County Community College, English Composition for Hutchinson Junior College and has previously indie-published the thriller novels Brainstorm and Dead Reckoning, and a book about the novel-writing craft, Novel Writing Made Simple.He is a founder and current president of the Kansas Writers Association and tries to stay connected to writers and the writing industry by doing speaking engagements at writers conferences and for writers organizations, and does his own "The Storyteller" seminar in Wichita, Lincoln (Nebraska), Kansas City, and other Midwestern cities based on his Novel Writing Made Simple book. His websites, http://www.WritersMatrix.com and http://www.IndieWritersAlliance are landing pages for writers to help them in their writing endeavors.
His author website is http://www.GordonKessler.com .
Other links: http://www.ReadersMatrix.com
http://www.Twitter.com/GordonKessler
http://www.Facebook.com/GordonKessler1
http://www.LinkedIn.com/in/GordonKessler.
THE AUTHOR WILL BE GIVING AWAY: a $50 Amazon.com GC. To increase your chances follow the tour. The tour dates can be found here: http://goddessfishpromotions.blogspot.com/2011/09/virtual-book-tour-jezebel-by-gordon.html
Coming tomorrow
~*~
Blogs of note:
Anny Cook
Amarinda Jones
Julia Barrett
October 7, 2011
Into The Fire
With us today is Cherie Marks to tell us about her new release Into the Fire, a story of two chefs with a romantic past. Not only is Cherie going to share with us tidbits from her book and talk about the sensuality of cooking, she's also sharing a favorite recipe and a great giveaway (see bottom of page).
Welcome, Sherry. First, please tell us your thoughts on food and sensuality.
When we eat, we actually eat with all of our senses, so it's no wonder food is so completely sensuous.
There have been cookbooks devoted to the idea that the first sense that invites us to eat is sight. It is said you eat with your eyes first. Ask any preschooler, if it doesn't look good, we aren't eating it.
Food must be appealing visually first.Next, the smell of food is usually what we notice, but this can be tricky. Just because the aroma is pleasing, doesn't mean you'll love it (coffee, garlic, bratwurst), and the same can be said for those foods that have more of an odor. They might be the most flavorful and alluring offerings on the table.Texture and taste go together. Melt in your mouth, a nice crunch, chewy and delicious—these often describe the feel and taste of the food as it moves around the tongue. Both must be pleasing to the palate to draw us in for another bite.
Of course, even the way food sounds can attract or repel diners. Slurping, smacking, crunching, and escaping, pleasant moans can be tell-tale signs that a dish is divine.
With all these sensual connections, it's no wonder food is often associated with romance.
In my short story, Into the Fire, two chefs with a romantic past go head-to-head on a televised cooking competition, and tempting food play is a prominent part of the story. Luke and Shyann are foodies, so it is only natural that they would be turned on by food. The oven isn't the only thing making it hot in the kitchen.
Now it's your turn. Do you associate food with romance? What senses draw you to a dish? Comment for a chance to win.
Included below is a recipe from one of my favorite cookbooks, Saving Dinner, by Leanne Ely. She's a Certified Nutrition Counselor and her cookbook conveniently gives weekly dinners, along with shopping lists and nutritional information. As if that wasn't great enough, the dishes are the tastiest I've found. Here's one of her recipe raves—Garlic Lime Chicken:
1 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons butter
¾ teaspoon pepper 2 tablespoons olive oil
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper 4 tablespoons olive oil
¼ teaspoon paprika ½ cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon thyme
6 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
On a dinner plate, mix together first seven ingredients. Sprinkle mixture on both sides of chicken breasts.
In a skillet heat butter and olive oil together over medium-high heat. Saute' chicken until golden brown about 5 minutes on each side. Remove chicken and add lime juice and chicken broth to the pan, whisking up the browned bits off the bottom of the pan. Keep cooking until sauce has reduce slightly. Add chicken back to the pan to thoroughly coat and serve (57-58).
I love to hear from readers, writers, and in-betweeners, so please e-mail me at authorcheriemarks@gmail.com
http://www.cheriemarks.com
http://www.cheriemarks.blogspot.com/
Facebook--http://on.fb.me/qRl1lD
Twitter—http://twitter.com/cheriemarks
Book Trailer--http://youtu.be/lXrDrRC1daM
Into the Fire available at http://tinyurl.com/3mfn3zj from The Wild Rose Press, October 5, 2011
Blurb:
Months after he stole her affections—then her executive chef position—Shyann and Luke meet again under sizzling circumstances, competing head-to-head on a televised cooking show called Kitchen Twist.
Each arrives with a motive: Luke intends to win back Shyann's heart, even as she wants closure on the not-so-tasty heartbreak he once served up. Luke knows culinary masterpieces require a delicate touch, but that knowledge is tossed out with the leftovers as he works to show Shyann he's not such a bad guy.
Now he pushes his skills to the limit to win the competition and satisfy a bet. Can two top chefs resist each other as they move out of the pan and into the fire?
Excerpt:
Silence reigned for half a minute before he reached out a hand and touched hers like a breezy whisper. Her head went a little fuzzy at the warm contact. He shouldn't still be able to affect her so strongly.
"I regret it went down the way it did, but why did you show me the exit before giving me a chance to explain, not to mention—dress? Enlighten me, sugar cheeks?"
With a jerk, she pulled her hand free. He was really asking for it. Sugar cheeks? Seriously? Now she knew he was only messing with her. She could give as well as she got.
"Tell you what. You win tonight, and I'll give you your chance. You lose, we go our separate ways, and you walk out all by yourself, big boy."
A crooked grin formed on his face as he reached a hand toward her hair. He fingered an escaping curl before she pulled away, leaving his hand hanging in midair."You can call me big boy all you want, but I'll do you one better. How about if I win, I take you to dinner, and you let me explain the whole situation?"
She felt her eyebrow rise and knew he'd read it as interest, but she didn't care at the moment. "I honestly don't want to hear any explanation from you now or ever, but if I win? Which I will, of course."
"Then I'll leave it up to you. If you want me to walk away, I will." He took a step closer, placed his hand on her shoulder, and leaned down, his mouth right next to her ear. "But if you want me to call you darling, sweetheart, and sugar cheeks all night long, I'll do that too."
Author Bio
It all started with an old fashioned typewriter. When my family brought it home, all those stories and characters rolling around in my head could finally get out. The press and click of the keys satisfied in their own right, but when I pulled out a finished page, I knew this was for me. Since then, I've graduated to a laptop, but the stories still find a way out.
I'm a breast cancer survivor, a teacher, a wife, a mother, and from the very beginning—a storyteller. Always a hint humorous and honest to a fault, I love to make people laugh and smile. My goal in life is to achieve tact and stop procrastinating. The battle wages on.
Http://www.cheriemarks.com/
http://www.cheriemarks.blogspot.com/
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pages/Cherie-Marks/112358508843288
http://twitter.com/cheriemarks
THE AUTHOR WILL BE GIVING AWAY: two $10 GCs to The Wild Rose Press and one $10 GC to Amazon.com to randomly drawn commenters during the tour. The more you follow the tour and comment; the better your chances of winning. The tour dates can be found here: http://goddessfishpromotions.blogspot...
October 6, 2011
October 5, 2011
Muse It Up Online Conference
I pit stopped in the forums at the Muse It Up On Line Conference. Lots going on. They had several pitch sessions from different publishers and agents. Since I don't have anything finished, I didn't sign up. They've also got workshops on social networking, writing query letters, building suspense and character development to name a few. All kinds of good stuff.
