Debra L. Martin's Blog, page 278
April 17, 2013
Interview with Nicole Kuhn
How long before you got your offer of
representation/your first contract? Was it
for your first novel?
I self published my first book in July of 2012. I
wrote a trilogy, Mohawk Moon, Mohawk Sunrise and Storm of the Mohawk (releasing May 1). Last month, less than a year
after publishing, I was offered a contract with WheelMan Press for the Tucked
In (The Hollywood Files) series I’m writing. I’m also in talks with a second
publisher for an alternate new series.
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What factors influenced your decision to go with
a particular agent or publisher?
WheelMan is a great stepping-stone Publisher. They
are great to work with, leaving a lot of control with the author. They also
have a lot of connections outside of the Publishing world that will benefit me
and my success.
The first two Tucked In books will come out at the
same time, and I am really excited, as the cover model Shane Keough https://www.facebook.com/ShanePKeough is just awesome. He
makes the perfect Lance Tucker.
Tom Townsend is part of WheelMan Press, and he’s
great. Pep talks, answering questions and helping any/every way needed. He’s
here to make me successful, and I love it. It’s nice to have some help doing
all of this, as I’ve only done it on my own so far. (Not truly on my own, I
have the best fans ever! I love all of them)
Did you design your cover art? If not, would you
care to share your graphic designer’s information?
I use Ebook Cover Designs by Carey http://ebookcoverdesignsbycarey.com/ She’s amazing, and
I’m so happy with every cover she’s made.
What is your writing process?
Honestly, lots of coffee, energy drinks and late
nights. I still work a full time job, and have a family to take care of, so
when everyone is in bed, I’m up late, music playing and writing away.
Do you use an outline for your books or just go
where your muse takes you?
Truth be told, I would have no clue how to make an
outline. My stories basically start with a thought or a sentence and just build
themselves as I type. Half the time, I have no clue where it comes from.
What kinds of social media [twitter, facebook,
webpage, blog, writing forums] are you involved with trying to
garner publicity for your book(s)?
Lots of Facebook, Twitter and my blog. I’m
constantly doing Giveaways or having games for fun. I spend a lot of time
talking to and trying to get to know my fans.
Besides Amazon, are there any other sites where
your books are for sale?
Barnes and Noble as well. Can’t leave the Nook
readers out :)
Do you find it difficult to juggle your time
between marketing your current book and writing your next book?
Not really. It’s pretty easy for me. Although I
usually have to yell at myself to get off of facebook and get writing!
Besides writing, do you have any other passions?
Reading, Crocheting and my family. I try to spend as
much time with my little one as possible. I know when she gets older she’s not
going to let me curl up on the couch with her and read. So, I try to make the
most of it now.
What is the best advice you can offer new
authors?
It’s a lot of hard work to be successful at this.
You need to put in the hours. You can’t just type something up and think it
will sell. You have got to advertise yourself. Unless you’re signed with a big
publisher, you’re the best promoter you have. And, my big pet peeve, when you
get a bad review, don’t comment on it. Do not argue or try to defend yourself.
It’s just going to make you look bad.
Author Links:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/nkuhnauthor
Twitter: https://twitter.com/mrsnkuhn
Blog: nkuhnebooks.blogspot.com
Publisher: www.wheelmanpress.com
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6966339.N_Kuhn
Buy Links:
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/N-Kuhn/e/B008HR897Y/
BN: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/mohawk-moon-n-kuhn/1114777410
April 16, 2013
Book Tour Blast: THE GATEKEEPER'S DAUGHTER by Eva Pohler
The Gatekeeper's Daughter
In The Gatekeeper's Sons, Therese and Thanatos, the god of Death, met and fell in love. In The Gatekeeper's Challenge, they did everything they could to be together, even break an oath on the River Styx. But the Olympians don't tolerate oath-breakers. In this final book in the trilogy, The Gatekeeper's Daughter, Therese may have finally succeeded in becoming a goddess, but if she wants to remain one, she'll not only have to discover her unique purpose, but also make some allies among the gods. Artemis sends her on a seemingly impossible quest across the world, while Than searches for a way to appease Ares. To make matters worse, her aunt's baby's life hangs in the balance.
About Author Eva Pohler
Eva Pohler writes fiction for teens and adults and teaches writing and literature at the University of Texas at San Antonio, where she lives with her husband, three kids, two dogs, and two rats.
Follow Eva Pohler:
Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads | Amazon
Click over to these blogs to read their reviews!
The Crafty Cauldron
The Stuff of Success
Identity Discovery
Bookworm Lisa
SnifferWalk Books
Central Bargains Writers and Books
Interview at Literary Addicts
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Review: THE ALTARPIECE by Sarah Kennedy
4 of 5 stars This book explores the relationship when Henry VIII breaks from Rome to create the Church of England. He demands that all Catholic priests and nuns renounce their ties to the Pope and embrace his new religion. Catherine Havens, a young nun and healer, who lives in a small convent in Mount Grace faces the unimaginable when the King's soldiers come to Mount Grace to turn the nuns out of their abbey and to seize anything of value. The prioress Cristina hides as many valuables as she can including the valuable altarpiece painting and refuses to open the abbey doors to nobleman Lord Robert Overton and his soldiers when they come to claim their spoils.
Catherine is torn. She's been at the abbey since infancy when Cristina took her in and raised her, but her real passion is the healing arts. When she nurses Robert's brother with the pox back to health, her loyalties and faith are severely tested. The story explores her struggle between her growing feelings for William and her loyalty to the prioress and her vows. The book is well researched and a host of secondary characters immerses the reader in what life was like in 1535 England. I did find the story a little slow in parts, but the character of Catherine is compelling and will keep you turning the pages.
I received the book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
April 15, 2013
What the heck is Patriots' Day anyway?
I sometimes forget that people who don't live in Massachusetts, have no idea what Patriots' Day means. Patriots' Day (or Patriots' Day) commemorates the battles of Lexington and Concord, which were fought near Boston in 1775 and it is celebrated on the third Monday in April.
Observances and re-enactments of these first battles of the American Revolution occur annually at Lexington Green in Lexington, Massachusetts, (around 6:00 am) and The Old North Bridge in Concord, Massachusetts, (around 9:00 am). In the morning, mounted re-enactors (National Lancers - Massachusetts) with state police escorts retrace the rides of Paul Revere and William Dawes, calling out warnings the whole way.
So if you find yourself in the Boston area, you might want to take a ride out to Lexington and see the battle green for yourself.
April 12, 2013
Character Interview: ARTHUR MURPHY from Legend of Mickey Tussler
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aemLXI9_69s..." imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aemLXI9_69s..." /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">You're a
manager for a minor league baseball team, the Brewers, out of Milwaukee. How
did you get there?</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Well, that’s a long and somewhat involved tale. Looking at
me now, you may find it hard to believe that I was once touted as the next Ty
Cobb. Yup. I was. I had the baseball world on a string. I was a “can’t miss
prospect,” the talk of the town as they say, until that fateful day, when
my teammate and now current nemesis and rival Chip McNally got in my way
chasing down a fly ball. He just had to try and steal the limelight. That was
always Chip. It’s how he got he nickname “ Hollywood .” He still claims to this
day that he never heard me call for the ball, and that it was his play anyway,
but that’s not what others say. It was mine all the way. The result was a
busted knee and the end (a few years later) to what could have been a long,
noteworthy career. So, because baseball gets in your blood and beckons to be
satisfied, I began coaching and managing. It’s not quite the same as playing,
but it sure is better than putting on a three piece suit every morning and
pushing papers across a desk in some godforsaken office. I’m out there in the
sun, with the smell of grass and pine tar, doing what I love in a city that I
also love. And, one day, with a little luck, I will get a chance to manage in
the majors. I’m thinking that my incredible discovery – Mickey Tussler – just
may get me there a little sooner than I thought. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">You
'discovered' pitching phenom Mickey Tussler. Tell us how that happened.</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Yes, finding Mickey was, as I already suggested, the
discovery of a lifetime. I was on a scouting trip, all set to see another
prospect whose name I have completely forgotten by now, when I ran into a
little car trouble. So I run my car into this ditch. Now I'm in the
middle of nowhere, with nobody to help me, and obviously no chance
of keeping my appointment. Boy was I ticked off. I staggered up the road a bit,
to a very old farmhouse. I wandered up the dirt drive, hoping to find someone
who could help me, when I heard this unusual "popping sound"
coming from the back area of the barn. I followed the sound. It did not take
long to discover its source. It was there I witnessed the most amazing sight --
this young, very powerful, somewhat quirky farm boy throwing apples into
a barrel turned on its side -- throwing with power and accuracy from what must
have been well over 100 feet away. One after the other. Splat. Right in the
center of the barrel. I don' think he missed one time. Not one! It was remarkable.
And what made it all the more surreal is that this boy was obviously "not
right" -- by that I mean he was just a little off, maybe slow or
something. Quirky. You understand. But despite the oddity, he captivated me
instantly. Really. I've been around the game a long time, and I have never
seen anything like this kid. It's only now that I understand Mickey has a
condition of some sort that makes him special. It is challenging at times for
us as a team, but Mickey has made al the difference fro the Brew Crew. After
a little instruction about pitching mechanics and such, and more than a little
TLC, I now have what I believe to be the most incredible pitching arm baseball
has ever seen. Come out to a game and watch this kid do his thing! </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">What drew
you to Mickey?</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Of course what interested me immediately was the boy’s sheer
ability. Power and accuracy are quite a combination for any ballplayer,
especially pitchers. I knew, just knew, that I could harness his raw
ability into something magical. It worked our very well to say the least.
But I also want to say that a good part of the boy’s appeal lies in who he is.
His approach to certain things is certainly different, but I have to add that
the boy’s simplicity and genuine nature make him truly special. I have
developed real feelings for the boy. I sort of feel responsible for him,
like a father. You know? I think Mickey appreciates that, as does his mother
Molly, especially since Mickey’s father is not exactly the nicest guy. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 3.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">How was
Mickey different from your other players?</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Mickey is different in two very notable ways. First,
he is the most purely gifted of any player I have EVER had. Period. That
elevates his status right there. Mickey does things on the field that have
never been done before – that will never be done again by anyone else. He
is a “game changer” for sure as the old expression goes. More
importantly, Mickey sees the world differently from his teammates. His
condition leads him down some different paths, but that’s okay with me and all
of the guys here. And you should see this kid with anything related to numbers.
It’s amazing. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 3.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">You had
some trouble at the end of the last season. Did you think Mickey would ever
come back to play ball again?</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Well, did I think he would? No, mostly because his mother
was so adamantly opposed to it. However, I did always retain hope that he
would. And with a little persuasion and some serious groveling, I managed to
allay most of Mickey’s mom’s fears and Mickey’s as well. Now the Baby
Bazooka is back and he is better than ever. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 3.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">This
season, you have another new player who brings his own challenges. Can you tell
us a little about this situation?</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Unfortunately, the Brewer family lost captain and Milwaukee icon
Raymond “Boxcar” Miller to cancer earlier this year. It was a devastating blow
to all of us, especially Mickey. I think it was the kid’s first experience with
this sort of loss. The two of them were tight and Boxcar helped Mickey a lot
when Mickey first arrived. Naturally, you can never replace someone like
Boxcar. I was, however, fortunate enough to sign another catcher – one who was
a standout in the Negro Leagues – and he has filled in very nicely. Lester
Sledge has all the tools that a manager wants to see from his catcher. He can
do it all. The only thing he cannot do is enlighten some of the ignorant slobs
who still do not want to see integration of black and white on a baseball
field. Cripe, it’s been a couple of years now since Jackie broke in
with the Dodgers and we still have idiots sending hate mail and making threats
to guys like Lester. But, all of us have Lester’s back, and I am positive
that this guy’s performance on the field is going to silence many of his
critics. It has already begun to happen. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 3.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">What would
you most like people to understand about Mickey and baseball?</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">That Mickey is a special talent, but also a special person.
And, being one doesn’t mean he cannot be the other. Folks need to open
their minds to things that are not familiar. If they do, they might be surprised. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gwhn5Woy2Fk..." imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gwhn5Woy2Fk..." width="400" /></a></div>
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<br /></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TwoEnd..." height="1" width="1"/>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">You're a
manager for a minor league baseball team, the Brewers, out of Milwaukee. How
did you get there?</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Well, that’s a long and somewhat involved tale. Looking at
me now, you may find it hard to believe that I was once touted as the next Ty
Cobb. Yup. I was. I had the baseball world on a string. I was a “can’t miss
prospect,” the talk of the town as they say, until that fateful day, when
my teammate and now current nemesis and rival Chip McNally got in my way
chasing down a fly ball. He just had to try and steal the limelight. That was
always Chip. It’s how he got he nickname “ Hollywood .” He still claims to this
day that he never heard me call for the ball, and that it was his play anyway,
but that’s not what others say. It was mine all the way. The result was a
busted knee and the end (a few years later) to what could have been a long,
noteworthy career. So, because baseball gets in your blood and beckons to be
satisfied, I began coaching and managing. It’s not quite the same as playing,
but it sure is better than putting on a three piece suit every morning and
pushing papers across a desk in some godforsaken office. I’m out there in the
sun, with the smell of grass and pine tar, doing what I love in a city that I
also love. And, one day, with a little luck, I will get a chance to manage in
the majors. I’m thinking that my incredible discovery – Mickey Tussler – just
may get me there a little sooner than I thought. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">You
'discovered' pitching phenom Mickey Tussler. Tell us how that happened.</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Yes, finding Mickey was, as I already suggested, the
discovery of a lifetime. I was on a scouting trip, all set to see another
prospect whose name I have completely forgotten by now, when I ran into a
little car trouble. So I run my car into this ditch. Now I'm in the
middle of nowhere, with nobody to help me, and obviously no chance
of keeping my appointment. Boy was I ticked off. I staggered up the road a bit,
to a very old farmhouse. I wandered up the dirt drive, hoping to find someone
who could help me, when I heard this unusual "popping sound"
coming from the back area of the barn. I followed the sound. It did not take
long to discover its source. It was there I witnessed the most amazing sight --
this young, very powerful, somewhat quirky farm boy throwing apples into
a barrel turned on its side -- throwing with power and accuracy from what must
have been well over 100 feet away. One after the other. Splat. Right in the
center of the barrel. I don' think he missed one time. Not one! It was remarkable.
And what made it all the more surreal is that this boy was obviously "not
right" -- by that I mean he was just a little off, maybe slow or
something. Quirky. You understand. But despite the oddity, he captivated me
instantly. Really. I've been around the game a long time, and I have never
seen anything like this kid. It's only now that I understand Mickey has a
condition of some sort that makes him special. It is challenging at times for
us as a team, but Mickey has made al the difference fro the Brew Crew. After
a little instruction about pitching mechanics and such, and more than a little
TLC, I now have what I believe to be the most incredible pitching arm baseball
has ever seen. Come out to a game and watch this kid do his thing! </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">What drew
you to Mickey?</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Of course what interested me immediately was the boy’s sheer
ability. Power and accuracy are quite a combination for any ballplayer,
especially pitchers. I knew, just knew, that I could harness his raw
ability into something magical. It worked our very well to say the least.
But I also want to say that a good part of the boy’s appeal lies in who he is.
His approach to certain things is certainly different, but I have to add that
the boy’s simplicity and genuine nature make him truly special. I have
developed real feelings for the boy. I sort of feel responsible for him,
like a father. You know? I think Mickey appreciates that, as does his mother
Molly, especially since Mickey’s father is not exactly the nicest guy. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 3.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">How was
Mickey different from your other players?</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Mickey is different in two very notable ways. First,
he is the most purely gifted of any player I have EVER had. Period. That
elevates his status right there. Mickey does things on the field that have
never been done before – that will never be done again by anyone else. He
is a “game changer” for sure as the old expression goes. More
importantly, Mickey sees the world differently from his teammates. His
condition leads him down some different paths, but that’s okay with me and all
of the guys here. And you should see this kid with anything related to numbers.
It’s amazing. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 3.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">You had
some trouble at the end of the last season. Did you think Mickey would ever
come back to play ball again?</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Well, did I think he would? No, mostly because his mother
was so adamantly opposed to it. However, I did always retain hope that he
would. And with a little persuasion and some serious groveling, I managed to
allay most of Mickey’s mom’s fears and Mickey’s as well. Now the Baby
Bazooka is back and he is better than ever. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 3.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">This
season, you have another new player who brings his own challenges. Can you tell
us a little about this situation?</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Unfortunately, the Brewer family lost captain and Milwaukee icon
Raymond “Boxcar” Miller to cancer earlier this year. It was a devastating blow
to all of us, especially Mickey. I think it was the kid’s first experience with
this sort of loss. The two of them were tight and Boxcar helped Mickey a lot
when Mickey first arrived. Naturally, you can never replace someone like
Boxcar. I was, however, fortunate enough to sign another catcher – one who was
a standout in the Negro Leagues – and he has filled in very nicely. Lester
Sledge has all the tools that a manager wants to see from his catcher. He can
do it all. The only thing he cannot do is enlighten some of the ignorant slobs
who still do not want to see integration of black and white on a baseball
field. Cripe, it’s been a couple of years now since Jackie broke in
with the Dodgers and we still have idiots sending hate mail and making threats
to guys like Lester. But, all of us have Lester’s back, and I am positive
that this guy’s performance on the field is going to silence many of his
critics. It has already begun to happen. </span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">What would
you most like people to understand about Mickey and baseball?</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">That Mickey is a special talent, but also a special person.
And, being one doesn’t mean he cannot be the other. Folks need to open
their minds to things that are not familiar. If they do, they might be surprised. </span></div>
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April 10, 2013
GRAMMAR GIRL: Irish Influences on English
Himself and Herself: The Important People
I’ve talked in the past about how to properly use the word “myself.” In American English, it’s considered wrong to use it in the object position—to say something like “Bring the corned beef and cabbage to myself.” The right choice is “me”: “Bring the corned beef and cabbage to me.”
However, “myself” is a reflexive pronoun, which means it’s in the same group of words as “himself” and “herself,” and Irish English has a special use for these words. I first discovered it when I was listening to the Outlander audiobooks by Diana Gabaldon. The books are set in Scotland. (Trust me, my family is Irish, so I know that Scottish and Irish aren’t the same thing, but in this case, both languages have the interesting quirk.) In the book, characters refer to Colum MacKenzie, Laird of Castle Leoch, as “himself.”
Here’s an example from the book:
“Weel now, that’s varra gude. Now, ye’ve just time for a wee bite, then I must take you to himself.”
“Himself?” I said. I didn’t care for the sound of this. Whoever Himself was, he was likely to ask difficult questions.
It took me a while to realize that they only used “himself” to refer to Colum and not to any other characters, and after I looked it up, it made sense. In Scottish and Irish English, “himself”—and “herself”—are used to refer to someone of importance, like the lord of the castle or the master of the house.
For instance, a 1983 academic article by Raymond Hickey about Irish English uses these examples:
Himself isn’t here at the moment.
and
Where’s himself.
Hickey notes that “himself” isn’t just substituting for “he.” It means “a specific person of authority or respect” such as someone’s boss or father or a woman’s husband.
I also found a cute Irish culture website where the people who run the site are listed under the heading “Himself & Herself” on the “About Us” page.
“Myself” as an Object
Although “himself” and “herself” have this additional meaning in Irish English, I also get the sense that it is more acceptable in Irish English to use “myself” in ways that we’d consider wrong in American English.
For example, the Oxford English Dictionary entry for “myself” notes that using the word as the object of a verb is archaic except in Irish English. That would be a sentence such as “He brought myself some corned beef and cabbage.”
You can read the full article at GRAMMAR GIRL'S website: http://grammar.quickanddirtytips.com/irish-influences-on-english.aspx
April 8, 2013
Interview with Joshua Dyer
Can you
give us a brief overview of your latest book? Is it part of a series?
Hunter
Cell is a sci-fi thriller that focuses on an elite
group of secretive government assassins. It is the first book in a new series.
Do
you have a favorite character?
All of the characters are very unique and
powerful. My favorite character from this book would have to be Judge. He's a
classic Bogart-style hard-boiled personality.
What
is your writing process? Do you listen to music, or do you prefer silence?
I listen to music. I find that it helps me get
into character when I write. I'll buy certain tunes that embody that
particular persona and go with it.
Do
you outline your story, or do you just go where your muse takes you?
For the most part, I have to outline my work. I
only have a limited amount of time to write, so I try to make the most of it
when I get it.
What
have you learned during your self-publishing journey?
You can only do so much on your own. You have to
balance the writing, marketing, sales, artwork, and production of the project.
You need an effective team to make it successful.
What
types of marketing are you involved with for your books?
I use the social media sites (Twitter, Facebook)
as a means of networking within the industry. I utilize blogs (http://www.huntercell.wordpress.com/) to connect
with other folks. My promotion comes from local media exposure, blog tours,
word of mouth and interviews.
Do
you find it difficult to juggle your time between marketing your current book
and writing the next one?
Absolutely. As an indie, you have to wear many
hats. I find it helpful to block out my time for each task. This goes back to one
of the previous questions. I allocate a couple of hours in the early morning or
late evening to write the next work. I might spend an hour a day (on average)
marketing the other books. That's about all that I have time to do, as I am a
husband, dad and work a full-time job.
What
advice would you give a new self-published author just entering the business?
I'll use a boxing analogy to make the point:
Winning isn't a matter of whether or not you get knocked down. We all do. It's
a matter of whether or not you're willing to get back up.
Besides writing, do you have any other passions?
Of course. My family comes first. I do all of
this for them. I'm an avid reader. We as writers tend to forget that we were
all readers long before we were authors. I also love to cook, and play golf.
Well, what I do isn't really golf. I go chase a little dimpled ball around a
meadow for a couple of hours, more or less.
What's
next for you?
There have already been a lot of readers asking
when the next Hunter Cell novel will be available. So, I'll give
them what they want. The customer is always right.
Blog:
http://www.scribesorcerer.wordpress.com
April 7, 2013
Review: RECKLESS by Cornelia Funke
4 of 5 starsThis is the first book I've read by this author and I thoroughly enjoyed this inventive YA fantasy. The alternate world was brought alive with vivid descriptions of both the countryside and the creatures that inhabited it. The pacing of the story was excellent and the pages flew by. Would Jacob find a way to save his brother from becoming the legendary Jade Goyle? Jacob's companion Fox was an intriguing character. I wanted to know more of her story and the author gives us snippets of this shape shifter. Can't wait to see what happens to Jacob and Fox in the next book.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
April 5, 2013
World of Symbols: HERALDRY by Michelle Snyder
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-umHN10aEOaY..." imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Michelle Snyder, M. Phil, Symbolist</span>
</a></span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="http://www.whiteknightstudio.com/&quo...
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="http://whiteknightstudio.blogspot.com... style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">http://whiteknightstudio.blogspot.com... />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b><i><span style="line-height: 115%;">Massachusetts State Seal</span></i></b></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;">Heraldry
– history’s shorthand</span></b></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Heraldry has been called both the
“shorthand of history and the noble science.” An inherited system of colors and
symbols for personal identification, heraldic designs are an artistic
expression of genealogies; the knowledge of the badges, knots, charges, crests,
coats of arms, helmets, and other devices became a science. Developed to
identify knights on the battlefield and in tournaments, these symbols also
identify the bloodlines of nobles and monarchies. The knights of Faerie tales
and many other wondrous childhood stories are full of characters with heraldic
insignia. In Arthurian lore heroic knights Lancelot, Gawain, and the Green
Knight have heraldic emblems unique to them. When monarchies merge through
marriage, heraldic designs are created to reflect the new alliances and
families.</span></span></span></div>
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</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Today heraldry is also a global system
symbolizing national, civic, military, and religious hierarchies, as well as
family lineage. A coat of arms must be granted and can, in extreme cases, be
abated. The United States Army Institute of Heraldry provides heraldic services
to government organizations, including the Executive Office of the President.
The great seal of the United States Presidents was designed in 1782. Military
Armed Forces award heraldic ribbons of honor to their heroes: the Medal of
Honor is awarded for "gallantry and intrepidity at risk of life above and
beyond the call of duty," the Army Distinguished Service Cross is awarded
for “extraordinary heroism.” </span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Heraldry has appeared on flags from its
beginning. Flags and standards emote strong feelings of belonging. Flags are
not exclusive to nations or nobility; the military holds regimental colors in
highest honor. Identity is linked to heraldic insignia; few may remember that
communists were called “Reds” because their (Bolshevik) flag was red.</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">The coat of arms of the state of
Massachusetts is a blue shield with an Indian holding a bow and a five pointed
star upon it. There have been several designs. A stained glass window above the
Grand Stair Case at the state house shows all the seals used in Massachusetts,
including royal seals of colonial days. The resting bow and golden arrow of the
Indian signifies peace through strength; during the Renaissance, three golden
arrows symbolized enlightenment during a time when that concept was heresy. The
five pointed star represents 13 colonies, and is a symbol of Venus, the planet
of the ancient mariner’s Venus Clock (ca 5000 BC) with which they calculated
longitude. The arm in the cloud wielding a sword is an ancient European symbol
derived from an older one designating the use of iron before the Iron Age. It
is now thought to represent the arm of God.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Religious
iconography is evident worldwide. The arms of Pope John Paul II display the
symbols of the papacy: the crossed keys and tiara, the M in the corner
designating Mary beneath the cross. These emblems also symbolize the marriages
and generations of families; family heraldry is a continuing historic record of
genealogies. It is interesting to note that of all the monarchies that engaged
in WWI, few families still remained after WWII; their coats of arms are, for
some, the only reminder of their family heritage.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Much of the symbolism used in Heraldic
designs, such as the double-headed eagle, lion, unicorn, dragon, and griffin,
as well as the shield, crown, sword, and ashera pole, comes from antiquity. The
combination and placement of these symbols conveys meaning, designating family,
rank, and nationality. A legitimate coat of arms must be confirmed by the
proper authorities and, on very rare occasions, can be revoked. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><i>My ancestor’s coats of arms</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1) Motto: Semper Constans fidelis (Always constant and faithful). The cross
shows the ancestor to have been a Crusader. Billets indicate diplomatic service
to the State. The oak indicates strength and firmness. The dragon pierced with
a sword, shows that while being with courage and determination, a wound has
been received with that weapon. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">2)
The first Wallaces were primarily
immigrants from Wales who settled chiefly in Scotland and to some extent in
North-umberland, Durham, and Yorkshire. The roots of the name can be found in
the Anglo-French “Walais” meaning “Welshman” or “Celt,” or the local Scots “Wallis,”
meaning “Welshman,” or “foreigner.”</span></span></div>
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</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The language of symbols used
in the art of Heraldry is ancient and has roots in our pre-historic past. Symbology:
Decoding Classic Images traces many well-known images back to their origins,
and discovers their ancient meanings making a fun study to find images that
relate to your history. What symbols would you use to design a heraldic emblem
for yourself or your family?</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-umHN10aEOaY..." imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Michelle Snyder, M. Phil, Symbolist</span>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b><i><span style="line-height: 115%;">Massachusetts State Seal</span></i></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;">Heraldry
– history’s shorthand</span></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Heraldry has been called both the
“shorthand of history and the noble science.” An inherited system of colors and
symbols for personal identification, heraldic designs are an artistic
expression of genealogies; the knowledge of the badges, knots, charges, crests,
coats of arms, helmets, and other devices became a science. Developed to
identify knights on the battlefield and in tournaments, these symbols also
identify the bloodlines of nobles and monarchies. The knights of Faerie tales
and many other wondrous childhood stories are full of characters with heraldic
insignia. In Arthurian lore heroic knights Lancelot, Gawain, and the Green
Knight have heraldic emblems unique to them. When monarchies merge through
marriage, heraldic designs are created to reflect the new alliances and
families.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Today heraldry is also a global system
symbolizing national, civic, military, and religious hierarchies, as well as
family lineage. A coat of arms must be granted and can, in extreme cases, be
abated. The United States Army Institute of Heraldry provides heraldic services
to government organizations, including the Executive Office of the President.
The great seal of the United States Presidents was designed in 1782. Military
Armed Forces award heraldic ribbons of honor to their heroes: the Medal of
Honor is awarded for "gallantry and intrepidity at risk of life above and
beyond the call of duty," the Army Distinguished Service Cross is awarded
for “extraordinary heroism.” </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Heraldry has appeared on flags from its
beginning. Flags and standards emote strong feelings of belonging. Flags are
not exclusive to nations or nobility; the military holds regimental colors in
highest honor. Identity is linked to heraldic insignia; few may remember that
communists were called “Reds” because their (Bolshevik) flag was red.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">The coat of arms of the state of
Massachusetts is a blue shield with an Indian holding a bow and a five pointed
star upon it. There have been several designs. A stained glass window above the
Grand Stair Case at the state house shows all the seals used in Massachusetts,
including royal seals of colonial days. The resting bow and golden arrow of the
Indian signifies peace through strength; during the Renaissance, three golden
arrows symbolized enlightenment during a time when that concept was heresy. The
five pointed star represents 13 colonies, and is a symbol of Venus, the planet
of the ancient mariner’s Venus Clock (ca 5000 BC) with which they calculated
longitude. The arm in the cloud wielding a sword is an ancient European symbol
derived from an older one designating the use of iron before the Iron Age. It
is now thought to represent the arm of God.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Religious
iconography is evident worldwide. The arms of Pope John Paul II display the
symbols of the papacy: the crossed keys and tiara, the M in the corner
designating Mary beneath the cross. These emblems also symbolize the marriages
and generations of families; family heraldry is a continuing historic record of
genealogies. It is interesting to note that of all the monarchies that engaged
in WWI, few families still remained after WWII; their coats of arms are, for
some, the only reminder of their family heritage.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Much of the symbolism used in Heraldic
designs, such as the double-headed eagle, lion, unicorn, dragon, and griffin,
as well as the shield, crown, sword, and ashera pole, comes from antiquity. The
combination and placement of these symbols conveys meaning, designating family,
rank, and nationality. A legitimate coat of arms must be confirmed by the
proper authorities and, on very rare occasions, can be revoked. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><i>My ancestor’s coats of arms</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1) Motto: Semper Constans fidelis (Always constant and faithful). The cross
shows the ancestor to have been a Crusader. Billets indicate diplomatic service
to the State. The oak indicates strength and firmness. The dragon pierced with
a sword, shows that while being with courage and determination, a wound has
been received with that weapon. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">2)
The first Wallaces were primarily
immigrants from Wales who settled chiefly in Scotland and to some extent in
North-umberland, Durham, and Yorkshire. The roots of the name can be found in
the Anglo-French “Walais” meaning “Welshman” or “Celt,” or the local Scots “Wallis,”
meaning “Welshman,” or “foreigner.”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The language of symbols used
in the art of Heraldry is ancient and has roots in our pre-historic past. Symbology:
Decoding Classic Images traces many well-known images back to their origins,
and discovers their ancient meanings making a fun study to find images that
relate to your history. What symbols would you use to design a heraldic emblem
for yourself or your family?</span></span></div>
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April 4, 2013
Interview with Beverly Lein
Can you give us a brief overview of the book. Is it part of a series?
It's a stand alone thriller set in the wilds of the Alberta region of Peace
River. Two depraved criminals make an escape from prison and terrorize a young
woman and a kidnapped child. But at the end of day, it's about rising to the
occasion and the strength of the human will!
Do you have a favorite character?
It's actually Sam, the dog! I have a real soft spot for four-legged friends and
just couldn't resist writing one into this book.
Did you try traditional route of
publishing, agents and publisher’s?
I did, my first book An Elk in the House
was actually published traditionally by Newest Press out of Edmonton.
How long before you got your first offer
or first contract?
It took me three years of bureaucratic red tape with the first publisher I dealt
with. They'd promised me a contract and kept stringing me along. After all that
disappointment I finally cut ties with them and found another publisher. Within
three months the contract was signed and a year later it was published. It was
a good lesson to go with your gut when it comes to publishers. If it doesn't
feel right, run away!
What factor influences your decision to
go with a particular agent or publisher?
As I said, nowadays I go with my gut instinct. But it's so much hard work finding
a publisher—and so much of it is about who you know and timing, rather than
whether you have a great story to tell!
What factor influenced your decision to
self publish your book?
The publishing world is so competitive, and it's becoming more so every day.
For myself, I was tired of rejection letters that told me that I had interesting
stories, but that they weren't the right 'fit'. It's even harder if you're not
already someone who's well-known. Breaking into the traditional publishing
industry when you nobody knows who you are, is nearly impossible.
What is your writing process muse or
silence.
Most of my books have been written amid absolutely chaotic conditions. I have
five rambunctious grandchildren, an elk farm, my own business, and of course
just running my own home! The only time I can find complete silence is
late at night when everyone's gone to bed. So I often write late into the
night, otherwise I have to compete with all that insanity!
Do you outline a story or go where the
muse takes you.
I don't use an outline. I go where the characters direct me—you can always go
back and change things, but I find it breaks my creative flow to feel harnessed
by a strict outline.
Do you hire an editor to review
manuscript before publisher.
Absolutely! It's crazy not to!
What have you learnt during your self-publisher
journey.
If it's really important to you to have your story read, then sometimes you
have to take matters into your own hands. Sometimes you quit crying and walk
your own walk through life.
Besides Amazon are three other sites the
books are for sale.
Barnes and Noble and Ink Water Press are the only other ones I sell through.
What kind of marketing are you involved
in for promoting books.
I have a publicist that helps me run my website, books me interviews, and takes
care of my social media—she looks after me completely.
Do you find it difficult to juggle your
time between marketing and writing the next.
That's why I have a publicist, so that part of my life is manageable.
