Allie Boniface's Blog, page 48
January 18, 2012
Writers' Wednesday: A Little Coffee, a Little Facebook
Hi everyone! It's finally feeling like winter here in the Northeast, and we even got a dusting of snow the other night to confirm it. Brrr! To warm things up, I've posted an excerpt from my contemporary romance novel Lost in Paradise over at my brand-spankin' new CoffeeTime Romance Author Group (I'll be posting excerpts there weekly, from both published and upcoming/unpublished works - just click on the graphic below). Drop by for a visit...and my Facebook Author Page is also up and running, so you can "Like" me there if you're a FB fan.
Meanwhile, I'm busy writing, revising, and staying warm...hope to see you around cyberworld!
Meanwhile, I'm busy writing, revising, and staying warm...hope to see you around cyberworld!
January 16, 2012
Monday Mentionables: Martin Luther King, Jr.
In honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, I'm posting this. I wish we had more strong public figures today who could stand up and captivate - and motivate - this country the way he could:
January 13, 2012
Friday Fun Facts: Progress
So I have started revising my novella Tequila Sunrise and am through the first 2 chapters, about 10 pages in. I'm happy with the way it's going; I'm trying to do a little more character development (but I really don't want to turn this into a novel!!) and figure out what sub-plots to emphasize and which to drop.
I'm considering submitting this to either Carina Press or Entangled Publishing when it's ready. Entangled is pretty new, which would normally scare me off a little, but it's run by the follks at Savvy Author, and I like and respect their site, and I like the look of their book covers. Anyone heard anything about them or had any first-hand experience with them?
I've also been looking at Blush, Ellora's Cave sensual imprint that's PG-13/R-rated as opposed to their normally erotic focus. I didn't even know they had this imprint until just recently, but again, I might do a little more asking around before I submit to them.
So many e-publishers these days...as always writers, do your homework before signing a contract with anyone!
Ok, I'm off to tackle some more of Tequila Sunrise. My word count goals await!
I'm considering submitting this to either Carina Press or Entangled Publishing when it's ready. Entangled is pretty new, which would normally scare me off a little, but it's run by the follks at Savvy Author, and I like and respect their site, and I like the look of their book covers. Anyone heard anything about them or had any first-hand experience with them?
I've also been looking at Blush, Ellora's Cave sensual imprint that's PG-13/R-rated as opposed to their normally erotic focus. I didn't even know they had this imprint until just recently, but again, I might do a little more asking around before I submit to them.
So many e-publishers these days...as always writers, do your homework before signing a contract with anyone!
Ok, I'm off to tackle some more of Tequila Sunrise. My word count goals await!
January 11, 2012
Writers' Wednesday: Where I Am
Update: what's new with me? Well, I've sent out Beacon of Love to a couple of places (mum's the word right now, but I'll keep you posted with any news). I've just started a revision on Tequila Sunrise, which is currently at 25K words but will probably end up closer to 30K when I finish. Have my eye on a couple of places to submit it - my goal is by the first of March.
Let's see...networking-wise I joined Sweet Romantic Notions, a place for those of us who DON'T write erotic romance to hang out and chat about who's buying PG-rated romance these days. Am also making my way into the shallow waters of Goodreads, as I mentioned the other day, and I ended up having a lovely conversation with a woman who'd read and reviewed my books in part because she lives in my hometown. Her comment "We're very proud of our Allie" was so sweet :)
I'm also in the process of creating a Facebook fan page (I'm wayyyyy behind on this one, I know - in my personal life, I'm on FB daily. Have to catch up my author self). But when I do, I'll let you know in case you want to "Like" me there.
And, as in past years, I will most likely be donating an item (maybe 2) to Brenda Novak's Online Auction to raise money for juvenile diabetes research, which launches later in the spring. Always some GREAT and unique items to bid on, so I'll keep you posted about that too!
Whew! Now I'm off to school and that darn day job...
Let's see...networking-wise I joined Sweet Romantic Notions, a place for those of us who DON'T write erotic romance to hang out and chat about who's buying PG-rated romance these days. Am also making my way into the shallow waters of Goodreads, as I mentioned the other day, and I ended up having a lovely conversation with a woman who'd read and reviewed my books in part because she lives in my hometown. Her comment "We're very proud of our Allie" was so sweet :)
I'm also in the process of creating a Facebook fan page (I'm wayyyyy behind on this one, I know - in my personal life, I'm on FB daily. Have to catch up my author self). But when I do, I'll let you know in case you want to "Like" me there.
And, as in past years, I will most likely be donating an item (maybe 2) to Brenda Novak's Online Auction to raise money for juvenile diabetes research, which launches later in the spring. Always some GREAT and unique items to bid on, so I'll keep you posted about that too!
Whew! Now I'm off to school and that darn day job...
January 9, 2012
Monday Mentionables: Demystifying Goodreads
"Demystifying Goodreads" - this was a feature article in the most recent Romance Writers Report, and it was perfectly timed since one of my 2012 goals is to be more active promoting my work and using social media.
Sigh.
I do believe in both of those goals, whole-heartedly....it's just that sometimes keeping up with everything you can possibly do online gets overwhelming. Anyone else feel this way?
Anyway, Goodreads is actually a pretty user-friendly site. If you're not familiar with it, it's another online community - this one is for readers (mostly) and writers. When you join, you post the books you've read/are reading/want to read and then give them reviews and ratings. You can also talk to other members about their opinions and recommendations. I get the feeling it could be a pretty chatty place, if you wanted it to be.
The plus for authors is that you can interact with readers. They do seem to have some effective marketing tools as well, including Free Book Giveaways for new releases, your own profile page where you can share your books/trailers/blog/other links. Like any social media site, I'm guessing, the time you put in is what you'll get out of it.
So I'm interested....how many of you belong? Log in regularly? If you're an author, have you found it useful for promo and marketing? And finally, if you're a member, please add me as a Goodreads friend!
Sigh.
I do believe in both of those goals, whole-heartedly....it's just that sometimes keeping up with everything you can possibly do online gets overwhelming. Anyone else feel this way?
Anyway, Goodreads is actually a pretty user-friendly site. If you're not familiar with it, it's another online community - this one is for readers (mostly) and writers. When you join, you post the books you've read/are reading/want to read and then give them reviews and ratings. You can also talk to other members about their opinions and recommendations. I get the feeling it could be a pretty chatty place, if you wanted it to be.
The plus for authors is that you can interact with readers. They do seem to have some effective marketing tools as well, including Free Book Giveaways for new releases, your own profile page where you can share your books/trailers/blog/other links. Like any social media site, I'm guessing, the time you put in is what you'll get out of it.
So I'm interested....how many of you belong? Log in regularly? If you're an author, have you found it useful for promo and marketing? And finally, if you're a member, please add me as a Goodreads friend!
January 4, 2012
Writers' Wednesday: Some Links for You
Happy Wednesday everyone! Brrr....it's getting chilly here in the Northeast! Of course, we've had unseasonably warm temperatures this winter (with the exception of the Halloween blizzard), so it's really about time the thermometer flirted with single digits at night.
Anyway, a quick few links I'd like to share with you all today:
My writing friend Marianne has started a blog about TOS. What is TOS? Take a read and find out. She has a lot to say about it!
For authors, Noble Romance Publishing has an open call for submissions right now, and they're one of the only small presses that currently offers an advance against royalties. They also have something called a "Hot New Talent" program, which offers authors guidance in establishing and maintaining their online presence and assistance with marketing. As with any new publisher, approach with caution and ask lots of questions to find out if they're right for you.
The folks over at The Long and the Short of It have launched a redesign of their website, so check it out! They offer a variety of advertising options (heavy on my mind these days) along with free opportunites to get your name out there, like guest blogging and author interviews. Actually, many romance novel/review/chat sites offer similar free services for writers (Romance Junkies, Coffeetime Romance, and Fallen Angel Reviews are just a few), so if you're looking to enhance your online presence this year, give them a read.
And now I'm off! Remember to sign up for my e-newsletter (over there on the right sidebar) if you'd like to find out where I'm chatting, blogging, and (best of all) giving stuff away each month!
Anyway, a quick few links I'd like to share with you all today:
My writing friend Marianne has started a blog about TOS. What is TOS? Take a read and find out. She has a lot to say about it!
For authors, Noble Romance Publishing has an open call for submissions right now, and they're one of the only small presses that currently offers an advance against royalties. They also have something called a "Hot New Talent" program, which offers authors guidance in establishing and maintaining their online presence and assistance with marketing. As with any new publisher, approach with caution and ask lots of questions to find out if they're right for you.
The folks over at The Long and the Short of It have launched a redesign of their website, so check it out! They offer a variety of advertising options (heavy on my mind these days) along with free opportunites to get your name out there, like guest blogging and author interviews. Actually, many romance novel/review/chat sites offer similar free services for writers (Romance Junkies, Coffeetime Romance, and Fallen Angel Reviews are just a few), so if you're looking to enhance your online presence this year, give them a read.
And now I'm off! Remember to sign up for my e-newsletter (over there on the right sidebar) if you'd like to find out where I'm chatting, blogging, and (best of all) giving stuff away each month!
January 2, 2012
Mondat Mentionables: Making Resolutions
Happy New Year, everyone! I hope you had a safe and enjoyable New Year's Eve celebration...now for 2012 and those resolutions, right?
My resolustions for this year mostly focus on my writing. I took 2011 "off" in some respects, not in the writing so much, but in the publishing (only so much control over that) and the promoting (lots of control over that).
This year, I'm going to try and improve that. And to that end, I plan on trying to up my online presence - look for more newsletters this year, more guest blogging, more social media interaction, more contests and giveaways for readers and writers alike! If you haven't yet signed up for my newsletter, there's a link over on the sidebar where you can do so. I'll be sending one out later this month with updates on where you can find me, and how you can win books, both from me and from other talented writers.
Finally, though, the best promotion is a new release, which is why I aim to spend more time writing and submitting this year. And now I'm off...to write!
What are your resolutions for 2012?
My resolustions for this year mostly focus on my writing. I took 2011 "off" in some respects, not in the writing so much, but in the publishing (only so much control over that) and the promoting (lots of control over that).
This year, I'm going to try and improve that. And to that end, I plan on trying to up my online presence - look for more newsletters this year, more guest blogging, more social media interaction, more contests and giveaways for readers and writers alike! If you haven't yet signed up for my newsletter, there's a link over on the sidebar where you can do so. I'll be sending one out later this month with updates on where you can find me, and how you can win books, both from me and from other talented writers.
Finally, though, the best promotion is a new release, which is why I aim to spend more time writing and submitting this year. And now I'm off...to write!
What are your resolutions for 2012?
December 30, 2011
Friday Fun Facts: A Good Note to the End of the Year
Happy (almost) New Year, everyone! I hope 2011 was a good one for you - it certainly had its ups and downs for me. I'm happy to share some good news on the eve of 2012, though:
I just contracted One Night in Boston, One Night in Napa, and Summer's Song with AudioLark, so they'll be released as audio books in the summer of 2012. Very excited! My other 2 novels, One Night in Memphis and Lost in Paradise, have already been with them for over a year, and I have to tell you, it's been a really positive experience all the way around. Though royalties were slow to start, they've increased steadily. More than that, though, the owner of the site, Jennifer, is a FANTASTIC person to work with. She's personable and professional and dedicated to running a smart business.
Authors, if you own the audio rights to your books (check your contracts on this one), I recommend checking out AudioLark for audio book production. I think you'll be pleased at the reception you get there.
AND...(drum roll...) I'm happy announce the winner of my "Keeping Warm in Winter" blog contest: GladysMP! Thanks to everyone who stopped by all month long to share your thoughts.
Happy 2012!!
I just contracted One Night in Boston, One Night in Napa, and Summer's Song with AudioLark, so they'll be released as audio books in the summer of 2012. Very excited! My other 2 novels, One Night in Memphis and Lost in Paradise, have already been with them for over a year, and I have to tell you, it's been a really positive experience all the way around. Though royalties were slow to start, they've increased steadily. More than that, though, the owner of the site, Jennifer, is a FANTASTIC person to work with. She's personable and professional and dedicated to running a smart business.
Authors, if you own the audio rights to your books (check your contracts on this one), I recommend checking out AudioLark for audio book production. I think you'll be pleased at the reception you get there.
AND...(drum roll...) I'm happy announce the winner of my "Keeping Warm in Winter" blog contest: GladysMP! Thanks to everyone who stopped by all month long to share your thoughts.
Happy 2012!!
December 28, 2011
Writers' Wednesday: Those Opening Pages...
The last few days, I've been thinking a lot about story openings. This is not really unusual, since I just finished judging entries for my local RWA chapter. We run a "Hook, Line and Sinker" contest which is a little different than most romance contests in that we ask for only the first 3 pages of your manuscript.
Yes, that's it. Just 3. So imagine all you have to do in those few pages to hook a judge/editor/agent/reader! Establish setting, character, conflict, and have a voice that's either enjoyable or engaging enough to make me want to read on. Oh, and better not have any mechanical problems either!
This was followed up by a Savvy Authors' newsletter I received that featured an article called "Packing in the WOW." What did they have to say? It was so good, I'm sharing the highlights with you:
Establish a viewpoint character, and indicate what sort of person he/she is
Establish a mood/tone
Reveal the setting
Reveal what type of book this is. What are the stakes?
Divulge an immediate conflict (Not necessarily THE conflict.)
Grab the reader with a hook
(If you want to read the whole thing, just click the link above. It's well worth it, I promise).
I have to say, I've written a lot of books, and gone over the openings for those books more times that I can count, but reminders like these are always valuable to have. If you don't catch a reader in the opening pages, no matter how good the rest of your story is, they may not give you the chance to share it.
So there it is, fellow writers. Hope these tips have given you food for thought - may your writing (and especially your opening pages) be powerful and engaging and hook every reader you want - and then some!
Yes, that's it. Just 3. So imagine all you have to do in those few pages to hook a judge/editor/agent/reader! Establish setting, character, conflict, and have a voice that's either enjoyable or engaging enough to make me want to read on. Oh, and better not have any mechanical problems either!
This was followed up by a Savvy Authors' newsletter I received that featured an article called "Packing in the WOW." What did they have to say? It was so good, I'm sharing the highlights with you:
Establish a viewpoint character, and indicate what sort of person he/she is
Establish a mood/tone
Reveal the setting
Reveal what type of book this is. What are the stakes?
Divulge an immediate conflict (Not necessarily THE conflict.)
Grab the reader with a hook
(If you want to read the whole thing, just click the link above. It's well worth it, I promise).
I have to say, I've written a lot of books, and gone over the openings for those books more times that I can count, but reminders like these are always valuable to have. If you don't catch a reader in the opening pages, no matter how good the rest of your story is, they may not give you the chance to share it.
So there it is, fellow writers. Hope these tips have given you food for thought - may your writing (and especially your opening pages) be powerful and engaging and hook every reader you want - and then some!
December 26, 2011
Monday Mentionables: After the Rush
Ah, the day after Christmas. The house is quiet, the tree is still up, the gifts are unwrapped, and the dishes are put away. Though some might see December 26th as a bit of a let-down, I'm enjoying the quiet of the morning after a VERY BUSY weekend. See, because we don't have kids, my husband and I are the ones that travel. We spend Christmas Eve with our niece and nephews, Christmas morning with good friends (and now their growing family) and then we do host my in-laws on Christmas night for dinner. And I love being surrounded by family, I really do. I love all the food and drink (though I'll pay for it when I step on the scale this week!), the festive decorations, and picking out the perfect gift for others. But I will also admit that I love the quiet hours when it's all wrapping up, too.
So now I have a relaxing week ahead of me. I need to score some contest entries for my local RWA chapter (I always enjoy seeing what other people are writing), but most of all, I need to work on my own projects. Some revising, some brainstorming, some promoting - all in the plans. And yes, some cleaning up around the house and putting away those decorations, though I'm not in any hurry.
This is the last week to enter my "Keeping Warm in Winter" contest, so remember that every blog comment earns you another entry. And just for fun, a question: if you have a tree up for the holidays, when do you take it down?
So now I have a relaxing week ahead of me. I need to score some contest entries for my local RWA chapter (I always enjoy seeing what other people are writing), but most of all, I need to work on my own projects. Some revising, some brainstorming, some promoting - all in the plans. And yes, some cleaning up around the house and putting away those decorations, though I'm not in any hurry.
This is the last week to enter my "Keeping Warm in Winter" contest, so remember that every blog comment earns you another entry. And just for fun, a question: if you have a tree up for the holidays, when do you take it down?
