Theresa Jacobs's Blog, page 16
December 2, 2018
November 24, 2018
FRESH OFF THE PRESSES!
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Join the many who are seeking alternatives from the strict rules of amazon and grab your copy over at Smashwords!
Leave a review and guaranteed they wont delete it on you.
Smashwords WORLD WIDE
https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/908671
& for the die hards :
Amazon USA
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07KSQBZ9R
Amazon CA
https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B07KSQBZ9R
Amazon UK
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07KSQBZ9R
Help an indie, share with your friends and family, suggest a gift, and please always leave a review.
Thank you Theresa Jacobs
November 17, 2018
How to write when you just don’t feel like it.
I cut the last bunch of flowers from my garden to create a pleasing atmosphere and soothing scent.
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Prepare your drinks and snacks
I’m good for a few hours. When the hot drink is gone, it’s on to water.
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Play the right music
Whatever you like that suites your mood, or your writing.
Dress accordingly
https://opalescence.store/collections/winter-accessories/products/flannel-cartoon-warm-pajamas
This is not me – however this outfit portrays my writing attire!
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Move locations if need be.
I have an old computer running to my TV in the bedroom, this way when I get tired I can prop up with pillows and keep going.
Record when necessary
Sometimes I get too tired to type anymore, so I’ll grab my phone and talk to my own messenger – it needs a lot of editing – but that’s okay!
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What tips do you have when pushing through a nanowrimo session, trying to hit the end, or just need to get’er done?
November 10, 2018
How do you write?
Give up any thoughts of a social life – at least for the first ten years.
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Use the weather to your advantage.
Too hot = air condition and write.
Too cold = crank the heat and write.
Just right = get technological (or old school) and write outside! [image error]
Forget about sleep!
Nap before you crash.
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Try not to go insane and put those thoughts to paper!
AND
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Happy writing folks!
November 3, 2018
Addicted to publishing
How would it be received? Would I be outed as a fraud and have my internet privileges locked away? Would people be kind or mean?
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So many emotions came with the first book, and when nothing exceptionally bad, or amazingly good happened, I kept writing.
As I was ramping up to publish book two, I got excited. It was a geniuses idea that come from nowhere. This was going to be the big one! This one will launch my career. The excitement was palpable.
It was received to the tune of …
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But that’s okay, writing marches on, my next book is almost ready.
Here we go again, let’s publish this baby. This is the one! I’ll be famous. It’s my best yet.
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It gets the most five star reviews. People do love it. I’m not famous YET.
I published again and again.
I came to realize I’m addicted to publishing! With every book I get excited. I know it will be the one. The one that hits it big. The one that make it’s to the New York Times best sellers list. The one that will get me out of this town.
Will this be the one? Stay tuned and find out.
https://www.amazon.com/Theresa-Jacobs/e/B01BAS13T2
Share your feelings on publishing. Do you love it or Hate it?
October 27, 2018
What is Horror?
noun
an overwhelming and painful feeling caused by something frightfully shocking, terrifying, or revolting; a shuddering fear
https://www.dictionary.com/browse/horror
Why do we love it so much?
My personal theory – I am not going to get into the actual psychology of it, or steal others thoughts. I feel as though horror represents a deep, mysterious, unknown that draws people. At least it does for me. It’s the curiosity that drives us humans.
The “other” big unanswered questions.
Are ghosts real?
Will the dead ever rise?
What is that noise in the dark?
What makes the serial killer tick?
Why can some people be compassionate and generous, while others take pleasure in anothers suffering?
Secondary, the need to have a different emotion. To be happy, sad, angry, thrilled, and terrified, all the things that let us know we are alive.
How we we as authors fit into this niche?
I want to discuss the long career of none other than Dean Koontz.
WHY?
Because he is a great example of a writer pigeon-holed in the bookstores. My personal opinion of this is because it’s easier! I find few of his books to be right out horror. Many are thrillers, or suspense, and most are conspiracy theories. All of them excellent works of fluid language and characters we care about – but not horror.
The first book he published in 1968 was a Science Fiction, Star Quest. He went on to publish book after book, in various names, from Sci-fi, to suspense, to horror. His first commercial success was Whispers, under his own name, in 1980.
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This shows us writers that the struggle is real! The work is arduous and rarely is any author an over night sensation.
Anyone who reads my work are apt to say, “this is not horror,” and they would be correct. I have perhaps one – in your face – horror, Sudden Death. It’s cheesy, campy, b-movie material and I love it. Some hate it.
My others are more creature feature suspense, paranormal (without the sappy romance), occult perhaps? The defining lines are hard navigate. Therefore I stick to the lose and unwritten bookstore rules and shelve myself along with Mr. Koontz & Mr King in horror.
My hard core horror loves are, (not in any order) Ramsey Campbell, Richard Laymon, Clive Barker, Philip Rickman and the also straying Robert McCammon…there are more but this list can go on and on.
I’d love to hear your thoughts on why you like horror. The horror gig as a writer and share your favorites too.
Happy Horror Month!
October 20, 2018
How Not To Write a Novel
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Then run to the grocery store for ONE item
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Put it all away, start laundry and arrange flowers.
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Realize next weekend is booked solid so you must carve your pumpkin NOW
And Finally – Open your own retail store!
https://opalescence.store/
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What keeps you from writing?
October 13, 2018
The terrifying side of writing
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Well there is no limelight (YET)
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But there are the self-set meet and greets, book shows, and this one – FRIGHTMARE in the FALLS 2018
in 2 WEEKS!
IF you are in Southern Ontario, or Niagara Falls NY, area, come on out and meet not only me but this amazing line up of Horror Icon’s and more!
http://frightmareinthefalls.com/guests/
Hellraiser
Iconic Scream Queen
Halloween
Friday the 13th Part VI
Friday the 13 Part II
Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2
PLUS OTHERS…
I will have my paperbacks to buy and sign, and a few free treats for everyone. Of course this close to Halloween, you may have to show me a trick to get a treat
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ALL BOOKS available:
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Theresa-Jacobs/e/B01BAS13T2
APPLE: https://itunes.apple.com/ca/author/theresa-jacobs/id1064713680?mt=11
Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/theresajcbs
Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/Theresa%20Jacobs
Indigo: https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/contributor/author/theresa-jacobs
KOBO: https://www.kobo.com/ca/en/search?query=theresa%20jacobs&fcsearchfield=Author
And more – ask if you don’t see your preferred store. And I hope to see you there! Theresa
https://theresajcbs.wixsite.com/authorpage
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October 6, 2018
The Scent of You is the Death of Me.
I am not a fan of screaming poor me from the roof tops and generally lean away from those who are. However, when the air we breath has already become less than tolerable, then the masses all douse themselves in chemicals – things have to change.
There is a known, and studied, disease labelled (MSC) – multiple chemical sensitivities. Not that I want to say I have any disease, or scare others into thinking they do too, but the proof is in the air.
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It’s all around us, and people need to understand the consequences. Scent free places, such as hospitals, or doctor’s office, (the most common), are that way for a reason. Reactions to scents for those with MSC, can cause disabling health effects, such as headaches, (migraines), dizziness, cognitive impairment, breathing difficulties, heart palpitations, nausea, mucous membrane irritation, asthma attacks, to the severe Anaphylaxis.
[image error]Above is the most important point here. For those of us afflicted we are not complaining because we don’t like the way you smell, we are complaining because it’s detrimental to our daily enjoyment of life! I can lose 1 -4 days of work. And all that time with loved ones while I’m in bed suffering. Lose my writing time. AND have to cancel functions that I’ve planned months in advance.
It’s truly a debilitating affliction.
You can still wear deodorant, perfume, wash with your favorite shampoo, but what you need to do is keep it light.
I wear perfume, and yes, I have to find one that’s suitable to my issue, and one tiny spray is it, but If anyone were to hug me, they tell me I smell good. That is all you need. Not the entire room for two hours after you’ve vacated it knowing you were there.
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Sadly, the beauty industry likes to entice people with heavy scents. There are some simple hand lotions, (that my co-workers love – sorry guys), that cause instant headaches within a three-foot radius of me. From cleaning products, including Green Works, (which is supposed to be no harsh chemical fumes – but it’s the worst), to laundry products, candles, room fresheners, and more, it’s all hurting us.
I wrote this to try and bring a bit of enlightenment to those around us who over-scent. Please think before you spray, who are you wearing this for? The masses or yourself? Be kind and stay minimal.
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And share this with your stinky friends!
September 29, 2018
The incomparable Lucy Lombos
L- LIGHT; U- UNDERSTANDING; C- CHILDREN; Y- YOUNG AT HEART.
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Check out her website to learn more bout Lucy:
Website: www.lucylombos.com
Tell us about your books, genre, stand-alone or series.
I write children’s books most of the time because I am a staunch children’s literacy advocate. My latest book is ‘Ter and Ter’, The Turtle and the Eagle. And I have an upcoming biographical book early next year: “The Seed”.
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Right now, I am still working on my first novel, “Rose of Calapan”. I find it very difficult to write a novel because of the rules to comply with so that it can be classified as an authentic novel. I studied a lot of online writing courses, aside from my English grammar and fundamental writing, essay writing, poetry, reading and literature units in college, and master’s program.
I planned that my children’s book, “The Class Lady Bug” be written in series but in vain.
How long have you been writing?
I’ve been writing since 2000 in our school newsletter, and yes also in other school’s paper. But it was only in 2014 when my first children’s book was published.
Are you traditionally published, or self published?
Self-published.
If self-published when/why did you take that route.-
In 2014. I am an Indie author because I already experienced a lot of rejections. So I took that route, self publication for the children in our school.
Does writing energize or exhaust you?
It energizes me. It makes me excited.
How many hours a day do you write?
It depends on my schedule. I have a school that I manage remotely. Sometimes, I am like a rooster. I wake up early just to write in the morning for one or two hours. On the other hand, I am also an owl. I write in the evening or in the middle of the night.
Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with bad or good ones?
Yes, I do read the book reviews. I just ignore the bad ones but I learn from them. The good ones inspire me a lot.
What was your hardest scene to write?
The hook and the closing, for me, are the hardest scenes to write. I usually ran out of words for the struggles, the second act in the story.
What is your favorite childhood book?
All the fairy tales of the Grimm Brothers. But I like the “Giving Tree” by Shel Silverstein, “The Velveteen Rabbit” by Margery Williams and “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” by Eric Carle.
What is the most difficult part of your artistic process?
Editing and marketing; and then of course the criticism hurts me but I do believe it’s the part of the learning process.
Who is your favorite author and have you ever tried to emulate them?
Eric Carle is loved by me, and those which I already mentioned.
What book changed your life?
A lot. But the Holy Bible is timeless.
Is there anything you want us to know about you or your books?
I’m a teacher by profession. Storytelling has been one of my techniques in teaching the young children. I teach Christian Living, Language and Reading in our school, Lombosco Academy. Writing is never my cup of tea. However, I tried it because I decided and committed myself to become a literacy advocate. With foot injury, I found my niche when I migrated in Vancouver, Canada.
https://www.amazon.com/Lucy-E-Lombos/e/B075PJHRYR
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Afterwords for ‘Ter and Ter’…
1) Wanting to become a famous artist, Peter Shelley embarked on his trip to Music and Arts Festival in Mount Malasimbo without his parents’ permission.
His amazing adventure led to a beautiful friendship with Terry Spot.
Where do power, beauty and knowledge reside? Whose side will you agree with- Peter Shelley’s or Terry Spot’s?
A story of love, family, friendship, obedience in a picturesque setting of Puerto Galera, the pride of the Philippines… a must-read book.
Congratulations to the author! Mabuhay, Puerto Galerians!
Rockey D. Ilagan . The Hon. Mayor of Puerto Galera, Or. Mindoro, Philippines
2) In today’s world where children are growing up fast in an environment dominated by IT, it is our duty to protect children from getting addicted to their mobile phones which lead them to live in virtual reality and cut off from the real world.
This is why it so important for parents to develop their children’s awareness and appreciation of nature so that they will learn to care and protect their natural environment.
We congratulate Lucy Lombos for writing this children’s book ‘Ter and Ter’ which can help develop children’s curiosity and love of nature.
We hope that the author will continue to write more children’s books that will capture the children’s imagination and explore the beauty of nature and become the future guardians of our planet Earth.
Hubert d’Aboville. President & Founder, PUERTO GALERA MOST BEAUTIFUL BAY, INC., Adopted Son of Puerto Galera, And President and Founder of Malasimbo Music and Arts Festival
3) ‘Ter & Ter’ is an amusing children’s book. It inculcates good lessons and values to the children who are beginning to read and reading to learn. In particular, it teaches us passion in arts and music, and love of the family.
What is unique in this story, authored by the creative and talented Lucy Lombos, is the love of nature. Further, it informs the readers about the different habitats in Puerto Galera with its teeming marine, terrestrial flora, and fauna.
The young readers for sure will be delighted to know that Puerto Galera is known for being one of the World’s Most Beautiful Bays. It was also declared by UNESCO as Man and Biosphere Reserve.
It is amazing that the important features of Puerto Galera are mentioned in the story. In addition, it also promotes the tourism and conservation of the place. It is very seldom that one finds such encompassing environmental information being integrated in a children’s story. This is actually for all ages. I recommend that adults read this one of a kind story.
Daniel Enriquez.
Marine Biologist,
Former Municipal Councilor of PG (4 terms),
Member of the Board & Treasurer PG Most Beautiful Bay Inc..
Member of the Board PG Coastal Resource Management Board,
Member of the Board of PG Solid Waste Management Board, and Member of the Board of PG Tourism Council
What People Say About the Book
When it comes to teaching children the values of respect, obedience, and love for parents and elders, reading a book is a very effective and exciting way to educate them. More often than not, books can help children grasp lessons that seem very basic to adults but can be challenging for young children.
‘Ter and Ter’ is one such book. It is about two friends who came to a realization that they love their parents and that their parents love them. Through their shared experiences, they understood that their parents only want the best for them.
Both ‘Ter and Ter’ left home to follow their dreams without telling their parents where they were going. But both felt that something was missing. Follow Ter and Ter’s adventure and see how they came full circle and learned a very valuable lesson.
Lucy E. Lombos has used children’s books numerous times to instill values that are important for children to learn. She has done it once again in ‘Ter and Ter’. This book was written in a light, simple and explicit language but with very strong and priceless message.
Marina Aguila-Hendon. Teacher in Atlanta, Georgia, USA
‘Ter is a lame turtle who loves to draw. He dreams of traveling to Mount Malasimbo to attend the Music and Arts Festival to see the artwork of the great artists. But he leaves home without asking. Along the way, he bumps into many creatures and meets a new friend with the same nickname. Together, ‘Ter and Ter’ must try to find their way back to the people they love most. Did ‘Ter, the turtle do the right thing by leaving without permission? Will he make it home?
Sweet and heartwarming, ‘Ter and Ter’ is an uplifting story of friendship, adventure and the love of family.
Jewel Eliese. Mom and an American Writer
‘Ter, a lame little turtle dreams of becoming the most famous artist in the town of Puerto Galera. But then nobody seems to notice his talent. Instead, he even gets scolded by Mom for “dirtying” their walls. Disheartened he chanced upon an ad for the Music and Arts Festival atop the famed Mount Malasimbo. To follow his dream, he must “run” away from home. He knows the climb would be daunting for a lame turtle. Along the way, an eagle also nicknamed Ter’ would snatch him up with his powerful claws. And there begins their adventure together.
‘Ter and Ter’ explores their unintentional friendship and adventure that would lead them back to what really matters.
Fr. Gerard Ravasco, SDB Salesian Priest
A delightful tale! A lame turtle who won’t be held back by his disabilities, and a lonely eagle who looks past his own problems to selflessly help someone who is unable to help him back. Lucy skillfully teaches children through her vibrant story that no matter your disabilities, you can always chase your dreams and help others along the way!
A great book to purchase that will not only be a help and encouragement to your child but also be a financial help to young readers in the Philippines where the proceeds of this book go!
Sarah Goodwin. Writer at writinghistorytolife.wordpress.com
Lucy’s creative mind and amazing way of story-telling will definitely captivate the hearts and minds of young readers.
A must-read for everyone’s child, with valuable lessons on family, friendship, and love.
Edwin Cruz. Feast Builder, Light of Jesus, Vancouver, BC, Canada
Let us not forget her thoughtful, intelligent, and wise contribution to Writing 101. Grab your free copy here.
https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/898178
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I for one am thrilled to have met Lucy in person, it was a day I’ll treasure. Thanks for reading, Theresa Jacobs.
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