Heather B. Moore's Blog, page 17
April 14, 2011
Review for The Woman He Married by Julie N. Ford
I don't normally join blog tours with this particular blog, because this blog is all about ME, not someone else. Lol. But sometimes I must make an exception, and this one is for Julie Ford.
I first got to know Julie about 3 years ago when she was looking for an editor to help with her book, "The Curse of the Minivan." As you know, the journey to publishing can be long and arduous and to Julie's credit, she persevered, worked hard, and now she has three of her books contracted for publication. "The Curse of the Minivan" is now The Woman He Married and was recently released by Whiskey Creek Press. Her second book, Count Down to Love, will be released by Bonneville Books, July 2011.
Julie is a great writer, but she still had to go through the refiner's fire with lots of submissions, rejections, and constantly working on her craft. It was probably as exciting for me, as it was for her, to see her books pop up on Amazon and to realize she is now a real, bonafide, published novelist! Her books are available for order on Amazon.
My review of The Woman He Married:
Married 11 years, three children, part-time defense attorney, elementary school volunteer, are just some of the things Josie McClain Bearden precariously balances. When she starts to suspect that her high profile husband is having an affair, Josie's carefully juggled life starts to crumble.
The Woman He Married is a journey of self-discovery as Josie comes to grips with her newly-defined self and must determine what she really wants her life to become. She also must decide if she is willing to fight against the odds in a fading marriage, or if she'll let demons of the past gain the upper-hand. A compelling plot, a roller coaster of insightful emotions, dark humor, and the steady hope in human nature, all combine into a novel that's difficult to put down.
So I'm really excited to be a part of Julie's blog tour! Julie is running 2 contests, so be sure to check those out (below).
Contest 1: Julie is doing a fun blog tour (April 8–18) where you can enter her contest and win a signed copy of the book plus a $50 Barnes & Noble gift card by leaving a comment on MY blog. You can increase your chances of winning by visiting Julie's blog, Queries2Reviews, and get the link for the next review, click on other reviewers and leave comments. Every day there will be a new link for that day's review.
The winners will be announced on Julie's blog on April 20.
Contest 2: If you read The Woman He Married between now and May 28, you can go to Julie's blog an vote for who you feel Josie should have chosen in the end. You'll be entered into the 2nd contest to win a $50 Barnes & Noble gift card.
I first got to know Julie about 3 years ago when she was looking for an editor to help with her book, "The Curse of the Minivan." As you know, the journey to publishing can be long and arduous and to Julie's credit, she persevered, worked hard, and now she has three of her books contracted for publication. "The Curse of the Minivan" is now The Woman He Married and was recently released by Whiskey Creek Press. Her second book, Count Down to Love, will be released by Bonneville Books, July 2011.
Julie is a great writer, but she still had to go through the refiner's fire with lots of submissions, rejections, and constantly working on her craft. It was probably as exciting for me, as it was for her, to see her books pop up on Amazon and to realize she is now a real, bonafide, published novelist! Her books are available for order on Amazon.
My review of The Woman He Married:
Married 11 years, three children, part-time defense attorney, elementary school volunteer, are just some of the things Josie McClain Bearden precariously balances. When she starts to suspect that her high profile husband is having an affair, Josie's carefully juggled life starts to crumble.
The Woman He Married is a journey of self-discovery as Josie comes to grips with her newly-defined self and must determine what she really wants her life to become. She also must decide if she is willing to fight against the odds in a fading marriage, or if she'll let demons of the past gain the upper-hand. A compelling plot, a roller coaster of insightful emotions, dark humor, and the steady hope in human nature, all combine into a novel that's difficult to put down.
So I'm really excited to be a part of Julie's blog tour! Julie is running 2 contests, so be sure to check those out (below).
Contest 1: Julie is doing a fun blog tour (April 8–18) where you can enter her contest and win a signed copy of the book plus a $50 Barnes & Noble gift card by leaving a comment on MY blog. You can increase your chances of winning by visiting Julie's blog, Queries2Reviews, and get the link for the next review, click on other reviewers and leave comments. Every day there will be a new link for that day's review.
The winners will be announced on Julie's blog on April 20.
Contest 2: If you read The Woman He Married between now and May 28, you can go to Julie's blog an vote for who you feel Josie should have chosen in the end. You'll be entered into the 2nd contest to win a $50 Barnes & Noble gift card.
March 31, 2011
Book signing April 2
I'll be doing Ladies Night at the Fort Union Deseret Book on April 2, 6:00-8:00 p.m. (Utah). It's an awesome store and they have tons of goodies and other authors/musicians there.
Also, some of you wanted an update on my interview with a Dial Press editor over the weekend. We spent about 20 minutes talking about my YA book, which was really priceless to me. She gave me some great feedback, but even better, she said the premise was intriguing and very cool. A few of my friends were worried that the market was saturated in this genre, but the editor said it has great potential, so my confidence was aided by her comments.
She said it felt like a cross between The Giver and All Summer in a Day (Ray Bradbury). So my plan is to do another read-through/revision with her suggestions in mind, then submit the manuscript and see what she thinks.
In other news, I finished the final proofread of galleys for AMMON. I was very happy to find that I really enjoyed reading the story. That's always a good sign, and now I'm more excited to begin the promotion phase. In the next couple of weeks, I'll make an official request for reviewers.
Last night at critique group, Michele Holmes gave us copies of her latest book. It's a really fun western romance (great Mother's Day gift, hint hint):
Also, some of you wanted an update on my interview with a Dial Press editor over the weekend. We spent about 20 minutes talking about my YA book, which was really priceless to me. She gave me some great feedback, but even better, she said the premise was intriguing and very cool. A few of my friends were worried that the market was saturated in this genre, but the editor said it has great potential, so my confidence was aided by her comments.
She said it felt like a cross between The Giver and All Summer in a Day (Ray Bradbury). So my plan is to do another read-through/revision with her suggestions in mind, then submit the manuscript and see what she thinks.
In other news, I finished the final proofread of galleys for AMMON. I was very happy to find that I really enjoyed reading the story. That's always a good sign, and now I'm more excited to begin the promotion phase. In the next couple of weeks, I'll make an official request for reviewers.
Last night at critique group, Michele Holmes gave us copies of her latest book. It's a really fun western romance (great Mother's Day gift, hint hint):
March 24, 2011
Good Day so far . . .
In the writing side of my life, it's been a decent couple of days.
This morning I heard from my publisher that the non-fiction book I co-wrote with Angela Eschler was officially accepted. Not as the World Giveth: Christ's Gifts to Women will be released March 2012 in time for Mother's Day (unless the world comes to an end first).
Also, today I finished the 2nd draft stage of my YA Speculative novel and 'maybe' solidified the pitch. I was able to answer some of the bigger picture questions that were proving quite elusive.
Yesterday, I got a sneak peak at the cover for my next book: AMMON. It will be out in June. I'll be doing the final proofread pretty soon (which can be a painful process because I can't really change anything, just fix typos or formatting stuff).
In the next few weeks, I'll start to recruit reviewers for AMMON and come up with a several week giveaway leading up to the release date. Stay tuned . . .
Happy writing and reading everyone!
This morning I heard from my publisher that the non-fiction book I co-wrote with Angela Eschler was officially accepted. Not as the World Giveth: Christ's Gifts to Women will be released March 2012 in time for Mother's Day (unless the world comes to an end first).
Also, today I finished the 2nd draft stage of my YA Speculative novel and 'maybe' solidified the pitch. I was able to answer some of the bigger picture questions that were proving quite elusive.
Yesterday, I got a sneak peak at the cover for my next book: AMMON. It will be out in June. I'll be doing the final proofread pretty soon (which can be a painful process because I can't really change anything, just fix typos or formatting stuff).
In the next few weeks, I'll start to recruit reviewers for AMMON and come up with a several week giveaway leading up to the release date. Stay tuned . . .
Happy writing and reading everyone!
March 21, 2011
Sorry . . .
I've been a lame blogger. But if it's any comfort, I've been doing a lot of writing.
I finished the first draft of my YA speculative book and now I'm doing some revision work before sending out to some alpha readers, whom I am feeling very sorry for in advance (since this is my first YA novel and I'm sure I still have a lot to learn). But this weekend I'll be meeting with an editor from a national publishing house, so I'll let you know if she loves the idea or hates it. (And now you know why I was pushing to have the first draft done by this week!)
I tried to write a pitch, but then it turned into a 3 page synopsis. So I tried again, and although I'm not happy with it yet, at least it's there in black and white. You can tell me if it sounds lame-o.
The Burning
YA Speculative
72,000 words
16 year old Jezebel has been taught to suppress her emotions at young age in order to avoid censure by the New Government. But when she discovers the truth behind her grandmother's execution—the crime of falling in love—Jez realizes that the emotions she's been battling put her in the same category as her grandmother. Jez becomes a dangerous liability in a dying world besieged by non-stop rain, where the survival of civilization is dependent on absolute obedience.
I finished the first draft of my YA speculative book and now I'm doing some revision work before sending out to some alpha readers, whom I am feeling very sorry for in advance (since this is my first YA novel and I'm sure I still have a lot to learn). But this weekend I'll be meeting with an editor from a national publishing house, so I'll let you know if she loves the idea or hates it. (And now you know why I was pushing to have the first draft done by this week!)
I tried to write a pitch, but then it turned into a 3 page synopsis. So I tried again, and although I'm not happy with it yet, at least it's there in black and white. You can tell me if it sounds lame-o.
The Burning
YA Speculative
72,000 words
16 year old Jezebel has been taught to suppress her emotions at young age in order to avoid censure by the New Government. But when she discovers the truth behind her grandmother's execution—the crime of falling in love—Jez realizes that the emotions she's been battling put her in the same category as her grandmother. Jez becomes a dangerous liability in a dying world besieged by non-stop rain, where the survival of civilization is dependent on absolute obedience.
February 26, 2011
Upcoming Writers Conferences
Writing update: This past week I turned in edits for AMMON, as well as the preface, chapter notes, and bibliography. I'll be working on the map next.
I recently went to the LTUE conference in Provo, Utah. A 3-day science fiction/fantasy conference with tons of authors, editors, and others in the community. I went to a reading by NY Times Bestselling author James Dashner where he read the first 3 chapters of The Death Cure. And we saw the cover (which is not public yet). I also attended a few panels and learned a thing or two. And it was great to chat with my own editor and others.
Here are some great conferences you might consider attending:
Award winning author Lu Ann Staheli's Writing Workshop: April 9, 2011 Confetti Books in Spanish Fork, UT
Storymakers Conference--May 6-7, 2011 in SLC, UT
Writing & Illustrating for Young Readers Conference, Jun 13-17, 2011 Sandy Utah
THE Teen Writers Conference--June 18, 2011 in Ogden, UT
I recently went to the LTUE conference in Provo, Utah. A 3-day science fiction/fantasy conference with tons of authors, editors, and others in the community. I went to a reading by NY Times Bestselling author James Dashner where he read the first 3 chapters of The Death Cure. And we saw the cover (which is not public yet). I also attended a few panels and learned a thing or two. And it was great to chat with my own editor and others.
Here are some great conferences you might consider attending:
Award winning author Lu Ann Staheli's Writing Workshop: April 9, 2011 Confetti Books in Spanish Fork, UT
Storymakers Conference--May 6-7, 2011 in SLC, UT
Writing & Illustrating for Young Readers Conference, Jun 13-17, 2011 Sandy Utah
THE Teen Writers Conference--June 18, 2011 in Ogden, UT
February 15, 2011
In Loving Memory
Today I'll be at the funeral of my grandmother (in-law). Even though she reached the age of 89 and spent the majority of her life, with the exception of the last couple of weeks, in excellent health, today is a sad day. It's also a day of joy in that my grandmother has completed her earthly journey, and, I believe, has lived a good life, fought the good fight, and came out victorious.
When my oldest child was born, both sets of his grandparents were living elsewhere, my parents in Israel, my in-laws in Hawaii. My husband and I lived a couple of streets away from great-Grandma and Grandpa Sjoblom (pronounced Show-blum). For the early part of my son's life, they were the grandparents he knew.
The obituary below sums up Grandma's life, but there are things that can never be fully described on paper. Her laughter, her humor, the scent of her perfume, the softness of her cheek, the way she always dressed to the nines, the stories she told, and "the loves" she gave her great-grandkids.
My six-year old said last night, "Why couldn't Grandma 'Shoulder' live until she was 90? Then we could keep visiting her." Agreed. But I thought of her husband, her siblings and her parents, all who have been waiting for many years to visit with her. The wait is finally over.
Marjorie Newbold Sjoblom 1922 ~ 2011
Our dear mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend peacefully passed away on Tuesday, February 8, 2011 from causes incident to age. Her passing was a sweet experience for all as her loved ones surrounded her and each took an opportunity to express their love and farewell. Marjorie was born January 17, 1922 to Charles Henry and Annie Ada Sadler Newbold in their Draper, Utah home. She was the youngest child of this wonderful family consisting of Verl Newbold, Eldred "Jeff" Newbold, Bernice Newbold Johnson, Ralph Joseph Newbold, Myrth Newbold Bills, Willis A. Newbold, and two other siblings who died in infancy. Her heritage, which included strong ties to pioneer roots, was very important to her. Mom's childhood and teen years were spent in Draper where she and her brother, Willis, were inseparable. They were both members of the Draper school band. Marjorie graduated from Jordan High School where she made friends easily throughout her school years, and many turned into lifelong friendships. She was a good student who participated in leadership roles and excelled in math and reading. She made learning her lifelong pursuit. She also enjoyed singing and loved the choir.
The Great Depression years had a profound impact on her. As a teenager, she worked at Rasmussen's Market. She learned the importance of hard work, frugality and effectively managing family financial affairs. She prided herself in always having a savings, being able to meet the family's financial obligations, and in paying her bills on time. She was never late on a single bill in all her years! Mom married her childhood sweetheart and fellow Jordan High Beetdigger, Boyd Robert (Bob) Sjoblom. Bob set several high school records in track and football, and Mom was always there to cheer him on. Their marriage took place in 1942 and was solemnized in the Salt Lake Temple on June 11, 1951. Prior to Bob's passing, they celebrated 57 years of marriage. Her family was the focus of her life. As the children married, Dad and Mom added a large family room with a fireplace for ongoing family gatherings. These were joyful times with good food, games and, most importantly, family bonding. Mom was a great cook. Her lemon pies and "melt in your mouth" rolls are still legendary. Sunday at Mom's included a tender roast beef dinner with the best gravy in the state. Every holiday and monthly birthday celebration was a memorable and joyful experience. Especially meaningful to her were Easter, Pioneer Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas. These gatherings created family traditions which are still observed by her family which humbly began with two and presently totals over 100. Mom supported her children in their school activities and took joy in their accomplishments. She was especially proud that her three oldest daughters were all crowned Miss Draper.
As her children became older, she worked at Bowen's Dry Goods in Draper. She was reliable, honest and had a stellar work ethic. She loved associating with many wonderful customers. As the family grew and the children moved away, Mom was still always there to support them in times of grandchildren's birth, sickness and emergencies. Mom was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She served in the Draper 3rd and 7th Wards as a member of the Primary presidency, and in Relief Society and Sunday School organizations. She taught the same age group for over 20 years. Her Sunday School boys were special to her, as she was to them. Many of her former students continued to visit her on a regular basis to express their love and respect. Generously and compassionately, she quietly helped many in need. In later years, she and Dad served as ordinance workers in the Jordan River Temple. She was very supportive of her nine grandchildren who served honorable missions throughout the world. She was also able to see her three oldest great-grandsons (Dane, Cooper and Bo Smith) enter the Missionary Training Center and are currently serving in different parts of the world.
Mom is survived by five children: Becky Smith, American Fork, Utah; Margene "Jeanie" Moore (Lester), Draper, Utah; Judy Gay Bowthorpe (Dale), Midvale, Idaho; Boyd Eldred Sjoblom (Brenda), Draper, Utah; and Paula Bowthorpe (Michael), Sandy, Utah; 23 grandchildren and 38 great-grandchildren. Marjorie was preceded in death by her husband, Bob (died December 16, 1999), parents, siblings, and grandson Damon Robert Moore. The family extends their deep gratitude to the staff and residents at The Wentworth in Draper, who loved her and cared for her as though she were their own. Also to the Eastridge 10th Branch Presidency and members, and the kind members of the Draper 7th Ward who provided warm friendships. We also appreciate the sensitive and nurturing care provided by Alta View Hospital's doctors, nurses and health group (hospice care) in her final hours. A very special thank you goes to Paula and her family for the continuous and loving care they gave to Mom in the past 11 years of her life. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, February 15, 2011 at 11:00 am in the Draper 7th Ward building located at 600 East 12300 South in Draper, Utah. A viewing will be held there prior to the funeral from 9:30-10:45 a.m. and also on Monday, February 14, 2011 from 6-8:00 p.m.at Goff Mortuary located at 8090 South State Street in Midvale, Utah. Internment will be at the Draper, Utah Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, friends and family may make donations to Primary Children's Medical Center. Condolences and memories may be expressed online to the family at www.goffmortuary.com
When my oldest child was born, both sets of his grandparents were living elsewhere, my parents in Israel, my in-laws in Hawaii. My husband and I lived a couple of streets away from great-Grandma and Grandpa Sjoblom (pronounced Show-blum). For the early part of my son's life, they were the grandparents he knew.
The obituary below sums up Grandma's life, but there are things that can never be fully described on paper. Her laughter, her humor, the scent of her perfume, the softness of her cheek, the way she always dressed to the nines, the stories she told, and "the loves" she gave her great-grandkids.
My six-year old said last night, "Why couldn't Grandma 'Shoulder' live until she was 90? Then we could keep visiting her." Agreed. But I thought of her husband, her siblings and her parents, all who have been waiting for many years to visit with her. The wait is finally over.
Marjorie Newbold Sjoblom 1922 ~ 2011
Our dear mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend peacefully passed away on Tuesday, February 8, 2011 from causes incident to age. Her passing was a sweet experience for all as her loved ones surrounded her and each took an opportunity to express their love and farewell. Marjorie was born January 17, 1922 to Charles Henry and Annie Ada Sadler Newbold in their Draper, Utah home. She was the youngest child of this wonderful family consisting of Verl Newbold, Eldred "Jeff" Newbold, Bernice Newbold Johnson, Ralph Joseph Newbold, Myrth Newbold Bills, Willis A. Newbold, and two other siblings who died in infancy. Her heritage, which included strong ties to pioneer roots, was very important to her. Mom's childhood and teen years were spent in Draper where she and her brother, Willis, were inseparable. They were both members of the Draper school band. Marjorie graduated from Jordan High School where she made friends easily throughout her school years, and many turned into lifelong friendships. She was a good student who participated in leadership roles and excelled in math and reading. She made learning her lifelong pursuit. She also enjoyed singing and loved the choir.
The Great Depression years had a profound impact on her. As a teenager, she worked at Rasmussen's Market. She learned the importance of hard work, frugality and effectively managing family financial affairs. She prided herself in always having a savings, being able to meet the family's financial obligations, and in paying her bills on time. She was never late on a single bill in all her years! Mom married her childhood sweetheart and fellow Jordan High Beetdigger, Boyd Robert (Bob) Sjoblom. Bob set several high school records in track and football, and Mom was always there to cheer him on. Their marriage took place in 1942 and was solemnized in the Salt Lake Temple on June 11, 1951. Prior to Bob's passing, they celebrated 57 years of marriage. Her family was the focus of her life. As the children married, Dad and Mom added a large family room with a fireplace for ongoing family gatherings. These were joyful times with good food, games and, most importantly, family bonding. Mom was a great cook. Her lemon pies and "melt in your mouth" rolls are still legendary. Sunday at Mom's included a tender roast beef dinner with the best gravy in the state. Every holiday and monthly birthday celebration was a memorable and joyful experience. Especially meaningful to her were Easter, Pioneer Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas. These gatherings created family traditions which are still observed by her family which humbly began with two and presently totals over 100. Mom supported her children in their school activities and took joy in their accomplishments. She was especially proud that her three oldest daughters were all crowned Miss Draper.
As her children became older, she worked at Bowen's Dry Goods in Draper. She was reliable, honest and had a stellar work ethic. She loved associating with many wonderful customers. As the family grew and the children moved away, Mom was still always there to support them in times of grandchildren's birth, sickness and emergencies. Mom was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She served in the Draper 3rd and 7th Wards as a member of the Primary presidency, and in Relief Society and Sunday School organizations. She taught the same age group for over 20 years. Her Sunday School boys were special to her, as she was to them. Many of her former students continued to visit her on a regular basis to express their love and respect. Generously and compassionately, she quietly helped many in need. In later years, she and Dad served as ordinance workers in the Jordan River Temple. She was very supportive of her nine grandchildren who served honorable missions throughout the world. She was also able to see her three oldest great-grandsons (Dane, Cooper and Bo Smith) enter the Missionary Training Center and are currently serving in different parts of the world.
Mom is survived by five children: Becky Smith, American Fork, Utah; Margene "Jeanie" Moore (Lester), Draper, Utah; Judy Gay Bowthorpe (Dale), Midvale, Idaho; Boyd Eldred Sjoblom (Brenda), Draper, Utah; and Paula Bowthorpe (Michael), Sandy, Utah; 23 grandchildren and 38 great-grandchildren. Marjorie was preceded in death by her husband, Bob (died December 16, 1999), parents, siblings, and grandson Damon Robert Moore. The family extends their deep gratitude to the staff and residents at The Wentworth in Draper, who loved her and cared for her as though she were their own. Also to the Eastridge 10th Branch Presidency and members, and the kind members of the Draper 7th Ward who provided warm friendships. We also appreciate the sensitive and nurturing care provided by Alta View Hospital's doctors, nurses and health group (hospice care) in her final hours. A very special thank you goes to Paula and her family for the continuous and loving care they gave to Mom in the past 11 years of her life. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, February 15, 2011 at 11:00 am in the Draper 7th Ward building located at 600 East 12300 South in Draper, Utah. A viewing will be held there prior to the funeral from 9:30-10:45 a.m. and also on Monday, February 14, 2011 from 6-8:00 p.m.at Goff Mortuary located at 8090 South State Street in Midvale, Utah. Internment will be at the Draper, Utah Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, friends and family may make donations to Primary Children's Medical Center. Condolences and memories may be expressed online to the family at www.goffmortuary.com
February 10, 2011
Writers Conferences--Not to Miss!
The Storymakers Conference committee is holding a great contest this month called "Show Your Love"--prizes will include a 30-page manuscript critique from agent Sara Megibow (Nelson Literary Agency), a reserved seat next to agent Sara Crowe (#2 National best-selling YA Agent), reserved seat next to James Dashner (New York Times Bestselling author who is really cool), reserved seat next to Marcia Markland (Senior Editor at St Martins Press--agents are great, but editors make the decisions!), and more!
So I'm not entering the contest, since I know all of these people, but yeah--you should! Check out the contest rules on the Make Me a Story blog and also find out more about the Storymakers Conference here.
Another great upcoming conference is the 3-day LTUE at BYU. Cost is minimal and there are many incredible speakers lined up!
And, if you are tired of the freezing cold weather, ANWA is holding their annual writers conference in a couple weeks in Phoenix. Author Chris Stewart is the keynote. Check it out here!
So I'm not entering the contest, since I know all of these people, but yeah--you should! Check out the contest rules on the Make Me a Story blog and also find out more about the Storymakers Conference here.
Another great upcoming conference is the 3-day LTUE at BYU. Cost is minimal and there are many incredible speakers lined up!
And, if you are tired of the freezing cold weather, ANWA is holding their annual writers conference in a couple weeks in Phoenix. Author Chris Stewart is the keynote. Check it out here!
February 3, 2011
2010 Whitney Finalist!
I'm excited to announce that Alma the Younger is a 2010 Whitney Finalist!
To read the complete list of finalists, go to the Whitney Award website. Also, Annette Lyon wrote up an excellent post of the evolution of the Whitneys on her blog, The Lyon's Tale.
Amazingly enough, three others in my critique group are finalists as well, all in different categories! Sarah Eden for Courting Miss Lancaster; Annette Lyon for Band of Sisters, Jeff Savage for A Time to Die and The Fourth Nephite. Also, former critique group member, James Dashner, is a finalist with The Scorch Trials. Congrats my awesome critique group.
If you read my Publishing Journey post about my experience with a copy editor, you'll know why this Whitney honor means a little extra to me. I'll venture a guess that Alma the Younger did NOT kill my series as the copyeditor predicted. Not to mention that the next in the series, Ammon, will be out this June.
In other news: The Daughters of Jared was officially accepted by my publisher--release date will be 2012. I'll keep you posted!
January 12, 2011
My Publishing Journey--Part 12
Read Part 11 here
My Publishing Journey
Part 12
Okay, this will be the final entry in My Publishing Journey. I think I pretty much caught everyone up and while the saga continues, it's best saved for another time.
In January 2010, I saw a book called "Abish" by KC Grant on the shelves. I immediately bought it to read. I was a little worried that my publisher wouldn't be interested in my book on Ammon since Abish is in that story—and here they'd published a whole book on Abish by another author. I emailed the managing editor to see if my idea might receive some "pre-approval" before I started writing. The committee gave me the green light, so in March I started drafting Ammon. I wrote through the spring and most of the summer since I wanted to get it turned in before September. I was worried that if I turned it in later, it would miss being a spring/summer book and be a fall release. This would make it 15-18 months between releases.
In April, I had a new story idea—different than anything I've attempted before. I could see it as both a YA or an adult novel, but thought the appeal would be greater if written as YA. I wrote down the premise, then shoved it in a drawer. I couldn't deal with any new ideas yet. You'll see why when you read below.
My first non-fiction book (Women of the Book of Mormon) came out in April 2010 and to my surprise it was a fast seller. In two weeks the first print run sold out. I was doing plenty of signings at Costco and other places. My first Costco signing took place in my hometown of Orem. I was deathly afraid that I'd run into someone from high school, but that didn't happen.
I had skipped a meal, which usually happens when I schedule too much in a day, and so I was hungry by the time I arrived at my book signing. At the Orem Costco, the author table is set up quite close to the large refrigerators. So I sat there all night salivating over the chocolate mousse pudding that was front and center. I did have one lady who came up and was disappointed that my book was on the "Mormon" women since we are "so oppressed." A very interesting conversation to say the least.
I also had a book signing in St. George at the Costco there. It was kind of strange to see polygamous families milling about. Of course, they wouldn't come close to my table. They are very strict on what they are allowed to read and my book would probably be considered scandalous to them.
Soon after the crux of book signings, I took my kids on a trip to Israel. My parents were living in Jerusalem at the time, and it was definitely a once in a lifetime opportunity to take my children. I'd lived there as a 7 year old and later as a teenager so it was neat to show them around and let them get to know more about my childhood.
Back home, Alma the Younger was just being released. When I asked about doing book signings for the novel, I was told that the stores were dead in the summer. So I guess I wondered why my book was being released at such a "dead" time. But really, I didn't have any complaints and was very grateful to have the novel coming out. I did a couple of signings around Father's Day Weekend, and then later during the fall season.
I finished Ammon by July and let my alpha readers read through it. After edits, I turned in Ammon in August. I fully planned to take a break, but some readers had planted a seed in my head about writing of the "women" in the Book of Mormon. I decided to try my hand at a shorter novel, women's fiction, first person, from the point of view of the daughter of Jared (which takes place in the Book of Ether). The daughter of Jared is a truly evil woman and plots to kill her grandfather. I didn't want the book to be too dark, or too much of a downer, so I decided to give her a younger "good" sister. I wrote in the younger sister's point of view.
I selected my alpha readers carefully. I wanted readers who were familiar with my other books, but who were also adept at writing and editing young adult fiction. The Daughters of Jared has a decidedly young adult approach, although I would officially categorize it as "women's fiction."
The three readers all came back with great fixes, as well as compliments. Two of them said it was their favorite story of mine so far. I turned that book in just after Thanksgiving.
Also, in October I went to the Bouchercon Conference in San Francisco. A few years ago I wrote a thriller based on the hunt for the Queen of Sheba's tomb. I finally got an agent, but the selling process has been going very slow. I wanted to meet some editors from national publishing houses, and San Fran seemed like the closest place to do it. I had 5 publishers ask for the book and when I got back to my agent, she thought 2 of them were good choices. So we submitted to 2. One rejection has come in so far. If the other publisher says no as well, we might submit to some smaller publishers. So, even when you have 8 books published, rejections still come!
I dabbled a bit with my YA novel idea and wrote maybe 45 pages over a couple of months, slow paragraph by slow paragraph. I don't know if anything will come of it. But I would like to get it roughed in, then polish the first few chapters and see if I can get any interest.
In the meantime, I had my former editor ask me if I was interested in co-writing a book with her on Christ's Gifts to Women. She'd started the first couple of chapters, but had a baby . . . and you know the story from there. I read through what she'd written and really liked her vision. So I told her I'd finish the book. Several weeks later, we turned it in. Yes, I took the "non-fiction" plunge again, but this one wasn't as intimidating. Maybe there really is something to co-writing! Time will tell if Daughters of Jared or Christ's Gifts to Women will be accepted, but I think my readers will be happy if they become available.
My Publishing Journey
Part 12
Okay, this will be the final entry in My Publishing Journey. I think I pretty much caught everyone up and while the saga continues, it's best saved for another time.
In January 2010, I saw a book called "Abish" by KC Grant on the shelves. I immediately bought it to read. I was a little worried that my publisher wouldn't be interested in my book on Ammon since Abish is in that story—and here they'd published a whole book on Abish by another author. I emailed the managing editor to see if my idea might receive some "pre-approval" before I started writing. The committee gave me the green light, so in March I started drafting Ammon. I wrote through the spring and most of the summer since I wanted to get it turned in before September. I was worried that if I turned it in later, it would miss being a spring/summer book and be a fall release. This would make it 15-18 months between releases.
In April, I had a new story idea—different than anything I've attempted before. I could see it as both a YA or an adult novel, but thought the appeal would be greater if written as YA. I wrote down the premise, then shoved it in a drawer. I couldn't deal with any new ideas yet. You'll see why when you read below.
My first non-fiction book (Women of the Book of Mormon) came out in April 2010 and to my surprise it was a fast seller. In two weeks the first print run sold out. I was doing plenty of signings at Costco and other places. My first Costco signing took place in my hometown of Orem. I was deathly afraid that I'd run into someone from high school, but that didn't happen.
I had skipped a meal, which usually happens when I schedule too much in a day, and so I was hungry by the time I arrived at my book signing. At the Orem Costco, the author table is set up quite close to the large refrigerators. So I sat there all night salivating over the chocolate mousse pudding that was front and center. I did have one lady who came up and was disappointed that my book was on the "Mormon" women since we are "so oppressed." A very interesting conversation to say the least.
I also had a book signing in St. George at the Costco there. It was kind of strange to see polygamous families milling about. Of course, they wouldn't come close to my table. They are very strict on what they are allowed to read and my book would probably be considered scandalous to them.
Soon after the crux of book signings, I took my kids on a trip to Israel. My parents were living in Jerusalem at the time, and it was definitely a once in a lifetime opportunity to take my children. I'd lived there as a 7 year old and later as a teenager so it was neat to show them around and let them get to know more about my childhood.
Back home, Alma the Younger was just being released. When I asked about doing book signings for the novel, I was told that the stores were dead in the summer. So I guess I wondered why my book was being released at such a "dead" time. But really, I didn't have any complaints and was very grateful to have the novel coming out. I did a couple of signings around Father's Day Weekend, and then later during the fall season.
I finished Ammon by July and let my alpha readers read through it. After edits, I turned in Ammon in August. I fully planned to take a break, but some readers had planted a seed in my head about writing of the "women" in the Book of Mormon. I decided to try my hand at a shorter novel, women's fiction, first person, from the point of view of the daughter of Jared (which takes place in the Book of Ether). The daughter of Jared is a truly evil woman and plots to kill her grandfather. I didn't want the book to be too dark, or too much of a downer, so I decided to give her a younger "good" sister. I wrote in the younger sister's point of view.
I selected my alpha readers carefully. I wanted readers who were familiar with my other books, but who were also adept at writing and editing young adult fiction. The Daughters of Jared has a decidedly young adult approach, although I would officially categorize it as "women's fiction."
The three readers all came back with great fixes, as well as compliments. Two of them said it was their favorite story of mine so far. I turned that book in just after Thanksgiving.
Also, in October I went to the Bouchercon Conference in San Francisco. A few years ago I wrote a thriller based on the hunt for the Queen of Sheba's tomb. I finally got an agent, but the selling process has been going very slow. I wanted to meet some editors from national publishing houses, and San Fran seemed like the closest place to do it. I had 5 publishers ask for the book and when I got back to my agent, she thought 2 of them were good choices. So we submitted to 2. One rejection has come in so far. If the other publisher says no as well, we might submit to some smaller publishers. So, even when you have 8 books published, rejections still come!
I dabbled a bit with my YA novel idea and wrote maybe 45 pages over a couple of months, slow paragraph by slow paragraph. I don't know if anything will come of it. But I would like to get it roughed in, then polish the first few chapters and see if I can get any interest.
In the meantime, I had my former editor ask me if I was interested in co-writing a book with her on Christ's Gifts to Women. She'd started the first couple of chapters, but had a baby . . . and you know the story from there. I read through what she'd written and really liked her vision. So I told her I'd finish the book. Several weeks later, we turned it in. Yes, I took the "non-fiction" plunge again, but this one wasn't as intimidating. Maybe there really is something to co-writing! Time will tell if Daughters of Jared or Christ's Gifts to Women will be accepted, but I think my readers will be happy if they become available.
December 29, 2010
My Publishing Journey--Part 11
I hope you all had a nice holiday. Now let's get back to business! BTW, I'm teaching a 6 week novel writing class in Northern Utah County starting in January.
Read Part 10 here
My Publishing Journey
Part 11
2009 was a banner year as far as writing awards. Abinadi won the Whitney for Best Historical and also Best of State in Literary Arts. I was surprised on both accounts, first on the Whitney because the competition was quite fierce (and I had won the Whitney the year before, so I thought voters would be looking for a fresh author), and on the Best of State because of the religious and very "LDS" nature of the book.
When I had tried to buy a radio spot for Abinadi on the local radio station, KSL, and have the radio host, Doug Wright, do the live read, I was told my book was "too religious" even for the Utah market. I could have a commercial produced and aired, but not read by Doug Wright or it would sound like he was endorsing a religious book. Pretty ridiculous if you ask me. So I guess having it win Best of State was a bit of a victory in that light.
In the summer of 2009, I also received the good news that my non-fiction book, Women of the Book of Mormon, had been accepted. There was a clincher though—it would be released for the next "Gospel Doctrine Book of Mormon" year in . . . 2012.
My publisher's reasoning was that it would sell better when it was aligned with the proper Gospel Doctrine year.
I don't know how many of you have seen the movie "2012" but it's quite clear that the world is coming to an end around that date. I emailed my editor and in a semi-joking manner said that I might be dead by 2012. Or even worse (or better, depending on how you look at it), the world would end and Women would never be published. Also, (I continued to state my case) who really goes to Gospel Doctrine? For me, personally, I've been in primary or Sunday School for at least a decade and I'm sorry to say, I really don't follow the Gospel Doctrine lessons. BUT . . . I do read the Book of Mormon regularly, by myself, and with my children, no matter what "year" it is in Gospel Doctrine.
I don't know if my editor appreciated my humor, but she said I had great ideas and she'd sent them to the managing editor. (Wait! I didn't really expect that and then started second-guessing myself. Oh well. Too late.)
The fall passed and I finished writing Alma the Younger and turned that in. On the third week of December, the managing editor called me and told me that they'd accepted Alma the Younger and it would come out in June (instead of the regular fall release I'd had for 6 years). That was a surprise. I took a gamble and asked if "Women" was still coming out in 2012. No, she said, it was coming out in April. 4 months away! It turns out that I found out before my editor did.
This meant that the design department was putting in holiday hours to get permissions on all the artwork that would go into the book (12-13 paintings). Press deadline was the first week of January. I spent Christmas Eve going through copyedit revisions while my husband took the kids out.
I never received the official answer for the early release date (by 2 years!), but I was VERY grateful when Women sold out of its first printing in 2 weeks. That was a record for me, and my publisher was very excited as well. It also proved to me that the Book of Mormon is a subject that can be sold regardless of the Gospel Doctrine schedule.
On a funny note, for those of you who think it's glamorous to be a mother and a writer, I dropped in at my publishers just as the Design Director got back the proof sheets for "Women". She saw me in the lobby and came out to show me them. They were made up of 3'x3' sheets of paper with the book laid out—I can't remember what she called the proofs. I had left my 2 girls in the car for a couple of minutes, and apparently, they started arguing. While I was standing around a host of editors and designers, marveling at my new book, my five year old suddenly stepped inside, calling out in a very loud voice, "Shut up!" to her sister, who'd remained in the car. (#4 kid gets away with a lot more, that's for sure)
I put a big smile on my face and said, "I'd like you all to meet my daughter!"
Read Part 10 here
My Publishing Journey
Part 11
2009 was a banner year as far as writing awards. Abinadi won the Whitney for Best Historical and also Best of State in Literary Arts. I was surprised on both accounts, first on the Whitney because the competition was quite fierce (and I had won the Whitney the year before, so I thought voters would be looking for a fresh author), and on the Best of State because of the religious and very "LDS" nature of the book.
When I had tried to buy a radio spot for Abinadi on the local radio station, KSL, and have the radio host, Doug Wright, do the live read, I was told my book was "too religious" even for the Utah market. I could have a commercial produced and aired, but not read by Doug Wright or it would sound like he was endorsing a religious book. Pretty ridiculous if you ask me. So I guess having it win Best of State was a bit of a victory in that light.
In the summer of 2009, I also received the good news that my non-fiction book, Women of the Book of Mormon, had been accepted. There was a clincher though—it would be released for the next "Gospel Doctrine Book of Mormon" year in . . . 2012.
My publisher's reasoning was that it would sell better when it was aligned with the proper Gospel Doctrine year.
I don't know how many of you have seen the movie "2012" but it's quite clear that the world is coming to an end around that date. I emailed my editor and in a semi-joking manner said that I might be dead by 2012. Or even worse (or better, depending on how you look at it), the world would end and Women would never be published. Also, (I continued to state my case) who really goes to Gospel Doctrine? For me, personally, I've been in primary or Sunday School for at least a decade and I'm sorry to say, I really don't follow the Gospel Doctrine lessons. BUT . . . I do read the Book of Mormon regularly, by myself, and with my children, no matter what "year" it is in Gospel Doctrine.
I don't know if my editor appreciated my humor, but she said I had great ideas and she'd sent them to the managing editor. (Wait! I didn't really expect that and then started second-guessing myself. Oh well. Too late.)
The fall passed and I finished writing Alma the Younger and turned that in. On the third week of December, the managing editor called me and told me that they'd accepted Alma the Younger and it would come out in June (instead of the regular fall release I'd had for 6 years). That was a surprise. I took a gamble and asked if "Women" was still coming out in 2012. No, she said, it was coming out in April. 4 months away! It turns out that I found out before my editor did.
This meant that the design department was putting in holiday hours to get permissions on all the artwork that would go into the book (12-13 paintings). Press deadline was the first week of January. I spent Christmas Eve going through copyedit revisions while my husband took the kids out.
I never received the official answer for the early release date (by 2 years!), but I was VERY grateful when Women sold out of its first printing in 2 weeks. That was a record for me, and my publisher was very excited as well. It also proved to me that the Book of Mormon is a subject that can be sold regardless of the Gospel Doctrine schedule.
On a funny note, for those of you who think it's glamorous to be a mother and a writer, I dropped in at my publishers just as the Design Director got back the proof sheets for "Women". She saw me in the lobby and came out to show me them. They were made up of 3'x3' sheets of paper with the book laid out—I can't remember what she called the proofs. I had left my 2 girls in the car for a couple of minutes, and apparently, they started arguing. While I was standing around a host of editors and designers, marveling at my new book, my five year old suddenly stepped inside, calling out in a very loud voice, "Shut up!" to her sister, who'd remained in the car. (#4 kid gets away with a lot more, that's for sure)
I put a big smile on my face and said, "I'd like you all to meet my daughter!"
