Denise Jaden's Blog, page 10
March 6, 2014
March Madness Check-In Day 6 #WIPMadness
We've almost made it through the first week! Congratulations to all of you who have stuck around and made a commitment to get serious about your March goals! And if you haven't joined on with us yet, it is NOT TOO LATE TO SET YOUR GOALS AND JOIN THE FUN!
I'd love to give away another prize from our huge prize arsenal today! Today's winner is...
Linda C. Butler!
Congratulations, Linda! Stop by our goal-setting post, and choose your prize from those still listed. Email me at d(at)denisejaden(dot)com with your choice and we'll get it out to you as soon as possible.
And if you didn't win, there are still LOTS of great prizes to be won, so keep checking in each day...
Also, I have some other great news! Our own Kim Baccellia (who should have been a March Madness host, but because of my own lapse, I missed her this year - Sorry, Kim!) still wants to donate some awesome prizes, because she believes in the support of March Madness. So these awesome ARC's are being added to the prize arsenal:
Fire and Flood by Victoria ScottBig Fat Disaster by Beth FehlbaumGrasshopper Jungle by Andrew SmithGoing Over by Beth KephartWings by Elizabeth RichardsEmbers & Ash by T.M. Goeglein
Thank you, Kim!
But enough about fabulous prizes...let's get to today's check-in post!
Are you a tortoise or a hare writer? For me, to be honest, it was a slow start this month. That's not my usual style. More often than not, when I set goals, I spend the early days going overboard on meeting them, getting ahead, so if obstacles come up, I won't be so worried about them. That didn't happen this time around, due to poor planning and overbooking myself in the early days of March.
But...I'm not letting that stop me. So even if things haven't gone perfectly for you, or the way you had planned, or if you've already let yourself down...don't let that stop you either. A month is a long time to be able to make a difference on a project, and we're not even through our first week yet!
Let's do each other a favor this week. Let's ignore any poor or slow starts to this month. Let's agree together that we still have a lot of time this month to work toward, and even catch up on our goals. Slow and steady can still win the race. Can we do that together, and leave that idea of failure-dom in the dust?
And if you are not dealing with a slow start...if you've been going full-speed-ahead since March 1st, keep going, because you will lead us on and continue to inspire us! I'm so glad to have every one of you along for this March Madness journey, whether you're a tortoise or a hare.
No matter where you are at, keep pushing forward! And I'll see you tomorrow at Tonette's Blog!
I'd love to give away another prize from our huge prize arsenal today! Today's winner is...
Linda C. Butler!
Congratulations, Linda! Stop by our goal-setting post, and choose your prize from those still listed. Email me at d(at)denisejaden(dot)com with your choice and we'll get it out to you as soon as possible.
And if you didn't win, there are still LOTS of great prizes to be won, so keep checking in each day...
Also, I have some other great news! Our own Kim Baccellia (who should have been a March Madness host, but because of my own lapse, I missed her this year - Sorry, Kim!) still wants to donate some awesome prizes, because she believes in the support of March Madness. So these awesome ARC's are being added to the prize arsenal:
Fire and Flood by Victoria ScottBig Fat Disaster by Beth FehlbaumGrasshopper Jungle by Andrew SmithGoing Over by Beth KephartWings by Elizabeth RichardsEmbers & Ash by T.M. Goeglein
Thank you, Kim!
But enough about fabulous prizes...let's get to today's check-in post!
Are you a tortoise or a hare writer? For me, to be honest, it was a slow start this month. That's not my usual style. More often than not, when I set goals, I spend the early days going overboard on meeting them, getting ahead, so if obstacles come up, I won't be so worried about them. That didn't happen this time around, due to poor planning and overbooking myself in the early days of March.But...I'm not letting that stop me. So even if things haven't gone perfectly for you, or the way you had planned, or if you've already let yourself down...don't let that stop you either. A month is a long time to be able to make a difference on a project, and we're not even through our first week yet!
Let's do each other a favor this week. Let's ignore any poor or slow starts to this month. Let's agree together that we still have a lot of time this month to work toward, and even catch up on our goals. Slow and steady can still win the race. Can we do that together, and leave that idea of failure-dom in the dust?
And if you are not dealing with a slow start...if you've been going full-speed-ahead since March 1st, keep going, because you will lead us on and continue to inspire us! I'm so glad to have every one of you along for this March Madness journey, whether you're a tortoise or a hare.
No matter where you are at, keep pushing forward! And I'll see you tomorrow at Tonette's Blog!
March 2, 2014
The Fast Fiction Blog Tour Starts Here Today!
Rather than doing a traditional interview-filled tour for Girlfriend Cyber Circuit, I am celebrating the release of my new nonfiction writing book, FAST FICTION, by dropping tips about writing quickly at every stop of my blog tour, and offering some awesome prizes for commenting on any of these posts. The more you drop by and comment, the more chances you have to win these great prizes:
The Prizes:
Compliments of New World Library: They will be giving away A BOX of copies of FAST FICTION by Denise Jaden and GET IT DONE by Sam Bennett (US and Canada only):
Compliments of Denise Jaden, TWO BOXES of great fiction (US Only), including:A Love Story Starring My Dead Best Friend by Emily HornerHush by Eishes Chayil
The Lighter Side of Life and Death by CK Kelly MartinThe Hourglass Door by Lisa MangumRevenge of the Homecoming Queen by Stephanie HaleI Like it Like That by Cecily von ZiegesarA Girl Named Mister by Nikki GrimesWhat She Left Behind by Tracy BilenBetween Shades of Gray by Ruta SepetysAmerican Girls About TownRuby Red by Kerstin GierThe Dark Light by Sara WalshThe Tragedy Paper by Elizabeth LabanWriting with a Heavy Heart by Denise Jaden
All Unquiet Things by Anna JarzabWatch Me by Lauren Barnholdt
Fashionista by Micol OstowThe Sweetness of Salt by Cecilia GalanteBirthmarked by Caragh O'BrienRoomies by Sara Zarr and Tara AltebrandoJust Like Fate by Cat Patrick and Suzanne YoungWild Cards Simone ElkelesThe Appeal by John GrishamBetween the Lines by Jodi Picoult and Samantha Van LeerI'd Know You Anywhere by Laura LippmanHe's So Not Worth It by Kieran ScottJungle Crossing by Sydney SalterThe Evolution of Bruno Littlemore by Benjamin HaleWriting with a Heavy Heart by Denise Jaden
Audiobook copies of NEVER ENOUGH by Denise Jaden!
A critique of your first five pages, compliments of Denise's agent, Michelle Humphrey from The Martha Kaplan Agency!
All you have to do is enter the rafflecopter for a chance to win (at the bottom of this post, I've included links to all of the other blogs where you can comment for more chances to win).
About Fast Fiction:
Writers flock to National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) each November because it provides a procrastination-busting deadline. But only a fraction of the participants meet their goal. Denise Jaden was part of that fraction, writing first drafts of her two published young adult novels during NaNoWriMo. In Fast Fiction, she shows other writers how to do what she did, step-by-step, writer to writer. Her process starts with a prep period for thinking through plot, theme, characters, and setting. Then Jaden provides day-by-day coaching for the thirty-day drafting period. Finally, her revision tips help writers turn merely workable drafts into compelling and publishable novels.
A portion of publisher proceeds will be donated to National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo)
Praise for Fast Fiction:
“Fast Fiction is filled with stellar advice, solid-gold tips, and doable, practical exercises for all writers who want to draft a complete novel.”— Melissa Walker, author of Violet on the Runway
“Being a ‘pantser’ I have always resisted outlining, but I have to say that Fast Fiction changed my mind! Denise Jaden takes what I find to be a scary process (outlining) and makes it into an easy and, dare I say, enjoyable one. Fast Fiction is a hands-on book that asks the right questions to get your mind and your story flowing. I know I’ll be using Fast Fiction over and over again. Highly recommended for fiction writers!— Janet Gurtler, author of RITA Award finalist I’m Not Her
“Fast Fiction is full of strategies and insights that will inspire and motivate writers of every experience level — and best of all, it provides them with a solid plan to quickly complete the first draft of their next novel.”— Mindi Scott, author of Freefall
“Fast Fiction provides writers with the perfect mix of practical guidance and the kick in the pants they need to finish that draft. This book is a must-have for writers of all levels.”— Eileen Cook, author of The Almost Truth
“Practical and down-to-earth, Denise Jaden’s Fast Fiction makes a one-month draft seem doable, even for beginners, any month of the year.”— Jennifer Echols, author of Endless Summer and Playing Dirty
“One of the greatest challenges any writer faces is getting a great idea out of one’s brain and onto the page. Fast Fiction breaks that process down into concrete, manageable steps, each accompanied by Denise Jaden’s sage advice and enthusiastic encouragement. And anything that helps streamline the drafting process is a-okay by me! Fast Fiction is a great addition to any writer’s toolbox — I’ve got it in mine!”— Catherine Knutsson, author of Shadows Cast by Stars
“Forget the fact that this resource is directed at those wanting to complete a fast draft — if you’re out to get your novel done, period, Jaden’s Fast Fiction will be the kick in the butt that gets you there, from story plan to ‘The End’. . . and beyond.”— Judith Graves, author of the Skinned series for young adults
Where you can find Fast Fiction: New World Library | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | IndieBound | GoodReads
Help an author out:
Can't get a copy of FAST FICTION right now? I wonder if you'd consider helping out in other ways. I'd really appreciate any way that you can help!
Ask your library or bookstore to bring in FAST FICTIONLeave a review on Amazon (the more books are reviewed on Amazon, the more they will show up as suggestions for readers).Mention FAST FICTION on Facebook, Twitter, your blog, or pin a link to Amazon on Pinterest
Blog Tour Stops: Comment on any of the following blog posts celebrating Fast Fiction's release to be entered to win prizes galore! (All Fast Fiction blog posts should be live by March 9th, or sooner. Contest will be open until March 15th.)
GCC Blogs:http://amandaashby.com/news/http://www.jessicabrody.com/bloghttp://www.eileencook.com/ http://luciennediver.wordpress.com/http://lindagerber.blogspot.com/ http://www.sarahantz.com/blog/http://denisejaden.blogspot.comhttp://elanajohnson.blogspot.comhttp://jessikirby.blogspot.com/http://stephaniekuehnert.blogspot.comhttp://myramcentire.com/http://gretchenmcneil.blogspot.com/http://www.jennyoconnell.com/blog.html http://debbierigaud.com/debbie-rigaud-blog/http://www.mybignose.blogspot.com/http://we-have-words.com/http://jerismithready.tumblr.com/http://www.kristinaspringer.comhttp://www.livejournal.com/users/lstolarz/ http://www.melissacwalker.com/blog/ http://dianarwallach.tumblr.com
Additional Participating Blogs:
http://ellestraussbooks.blogspot.comhttp://www.judithgraves.comhttp://lstaylor.blogspot.comhttp://www.sharigreen.comwww.shana-silver.comhttp://www.tonettedelaluna.comhttp://careann.wordpress.comhttp://www.yascribe.blogspot.com
Remember, all you have to do is leave comments to get lots of extra entries to win some great prizes. Don't know what to comment about? Tell us the name of your favorite writing book!
Share this widget here:
http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/share-code/Y2QyYmEwOTMzNTUyNGRiYWY0NWE1YWE4YjBjN2I2OjQ=/ a Rafflecopter giveaway
The Prizes:
Compliments of New World Library: They will be giving away A BOX of copies of FAST FICTION by Denise Jaden and GET IT DONE by Sam Bennett (US and Canada only):Compliments of Denise Jaden, TWO BOXES of great fiction (US Only), including:A Love Story Starring My Dead Best Friend by Emily HornerHush by Eishes Chayil
The Lighter Side of Life and Death by CK Kelly MartinThe Hourglass Door by Lisa MangumRevenge of the Homecoming Queen by Stephanie HaleI Like it Like That by Cecily von ZiegesarA Girl Named Mister by Nikki GrimesWhat She Left Behind by Tracy BilenBetween Shades of Gray by Ruta SepetysAmerican Girls About TownRuby Red by Kerstin GierThe Dark Light by Sara WalshThe Tragedy Paper by Elizabeth LabanWriting with a Heavy Heart by Denise JadenAll Unquiet Things by Anna JarzabWatch Me by Lauren Barnholdt
Fashionista by Micol OstowThe Sweetness of Salt by Cecilia GalanteBirthmarked by Caragh O'BrienRoomies by Sara Zarr and Tara AltebrandoJust Like Fate by Cat Patrick and Suzanne YoungWild Cards Simone ElkelesThe Appeal by John GrishamBetween the Lines by Jodi Picoult and Samantha Van LeerI'd Know You Anywhere by Laura LippmanHe's So Not Worth It by Kieran ScottJungle Crossing by Sydney SalterThe Evolution of Bruno Littlemore by Benjamin HaleWriting with a Heavy Heart by Denise JadenAudiobook copies of NEVER ENOUGH by Denise Jaden!
A critique of your first five pages, compliments of Denise's agent, Michelle Humphrey from The Martha Kaplan Agency!
All you have to do is enter the rafflecopter for a chance to win (at the bottom of this post, I've included links to all of the other blogs where you can comment for more chances to win).
About Fast Fiction:
Writers flock to National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) each November because it provides a procrastination-busting deadline. But only a fraction of the participants meet their goal. Denise Jaden was part of that fraction, writing first drafts of her two published young adult novels during NaNoWriMo. In Fast Fiction, she shows other writers how to do what she did, step-by-step, writer to writer. Her process starts with a prep period for thinking through plot, theme, characters, and setting. Then Jaden provides day-by-day coaching for the thirty-day drafting period. Finally, her revision tips help writers turn merely workable drafts into compelling and publishable novels.
A portion of publisher proceeds will be donated to National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo)
Praise for Fast Fiction:
“Fast Fiction is filled with stellar advice, solid-gold tips, and doable, practical exercises for all writers who want to draft a complete novel.”— Melissa Walker, author of Violet on the Runway
“Being a ‘pantser’ I have always resisted outlining, but I have to say that Fast Fiction changed my mind! Denise Jaden takes what I find to be a scary process (outlining) and makes it into an easy and, dare I say, enjoyable one. Fast Fiction is a hands-on book that asks the right questions to get your mind and your story flowing. I know I’ll be using Fast Fiction over and over again. Highly recommended for fiction writers!— Janet Gurtler, author of RITA Award finalist I’m Not Her
“Fast Fiction is full of strategies and insights that will inspire and motivate writers of every experience level — and best of all, it provides them with a solid plan to quickly complete the first draft of their next novel.”— Mindi Scott, author of Freefall
“Fast Fiction provides writers with the perfect mix of practical guidance and the kick in the pants they need to finish that draft. This book is a must-have for writers of all levels.”— Eileen Cook, author of The Almost Truth
“Practical and down-to-earth, Denise Jaden’s Fast Fiction makes a one-month draft seem doable, even for beginners, any month of the year.”— Jennifer Echols, author of Endless Summer and Playing Dirty
“One of the greatest challenges any writer faces is getting a great idea out of one’s brain and onto the page. Fast Fiction breaks that process down into concrete, manageable steps, each accompanied by Denise Jaden’s sage advice and enthusiastic encouragement. And anything that helps streamline the drafting process is a-okay by me! Fast Fiction is a great addition to any writer’s toolbox — I’ve got it in mine!”— Catherine Knutsson, author of Shadows Cast by Stars
“Forget the fact that this resource is directed at those wanting to complete a fast draft — if you’re out to get your novel done, period, Jaden’s Fast Fiction will be the kick in the butt that gets you there, from story plan to ‘The End’. . . and beyond.”— Judith Graves, author of the Skinned series for young adults
Where you can find Fast Fiction: New World Library | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | IndieBound | GoodReads
Help an author out:
Can't get a copy of FAST FICTION right now? I wonder if you'd consider helping out in other ways. I'd really appreciate any way that you can help!
Ask your library or bookstore to bring in FAST FICTIONLeave a review on Amazon (the more books are reviewed on Amazon, the more they will show up as suggestions for readers).Mention FAST FICTION on Facebook, Twitter, your blog, or pin a link to Amazon on Pinterest
Blog Tour Stops: Comment on any of the following blog posts celebrating Fast Fiction's release to be entered to win prizes galore! (All Fast Fiction blog posts should be live by March 9th, or sooner. Contest will be open until March 15th.)
GCC Blogs:http://amandaashby.com/news/http://www.jessicabrody.com/bloghttp://www.eileencook.com/ http://luciennediver.wordpress.com/http://lindagerber.blogspot.com/ http://www.sarahantz.com/blog/http://denisejaden.blogspot.comhttp://elanajohnson.blogspot.comhttp://jessikirby.blogspot.com/http://stephaniekuehnert.blogspot.comhttp://myramcentire.com/http://gretchenmcneil.blogspot.com/http://www.jennyoconnell.com/blog.html http://debbierigaud.com/debbie-rigaud-blog/http://www.mybignose.blogspot.com/http://we-have-words.com/http://jerismithready.tumblr.com/http://www.kristinaspringer.comhttp://www.livejournal.com/users/lstolarz/ http://www.melissacwalker.com/blog/ http://dianarwallach.tumblr.com
Additional Participating Blogs:
http://ellestraussbooks.blogspot.comhttp://www.judithgraves.comhttp://lstaylor.blogspot.comhttp://www.sharigreen.comwww.shana-silver.comhttp://www.tonettedelaluna.comhttp://careann.wordpress.comhttp://www.yascribe.blogspot.com
Remember, all you have to do is leave comments to get lots of extra entries to win some great prizes. Don't know what to comment about? Tell us the name of your favorite writing book!
Share this widget here:
http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/share-code/Y2QyYmEwOTMzNTUyNGRiYWY0NWE1YWE4YjBjN2I2OjQ=/ a Rafflecopter giveaway
February 27, 2014
MARCH MADNESS: SET YOUR GOALS! #WIPMadness
If you’ve been looking for a challenge to get your writing into gear, you’ve come to the right place! Through the month of March we will be cheering each other on to meet challenging goals with our writing.
Also, this year we've decided to open up the challenge to Readers, Bloggers, and Illustrators. Basically, anyone who wants to challenge themselves regarding books and win prizes for it!
Today is goal-setting day! (But if you don't make it here on the first day, not to worry.
Feel free to add your writing goals here any time during the month of March).
March Madness officially begins March 1st, and this is how it will work.
We plan to have check-in posts up and running by 9AM PST (noon EST) each day.
Mondays – Visit LS Taylor at http://lstaylor.blogspot.com
Tuesdays – Visit Shari Green at http://www.sharigreen.com
Wednesdays – Visit Shana Silver at http://www.shana-silver.com
Thursdays – Visit Denise Jaden at http://denisejaden.blogspot.com
Fridays – Visit Tonette de la Luna at http://www.tonettedelaluna.com
Saturdays – Visit Carol Garvin at http://careann.wordpress.com
Sundays – Visit Angelina Hansen at http://yascribe.blogspot.com
The prizes ! We have some truly awesome prizes up for grabs this year! I'll start by giving away a prize to one person who comments below with their goals within the next 24 hours!
Here are the prizes that are up for grabs (these are in no particular order and have been donated by my generous co-hosts for this event!) I've added in brackets where we are able to mail each prize:
First Five Pages Manuscript Critique! (Courtesy of Denise's agent, Michelle Humphrey - International)
3 BOXES of popular and new fiction! (Courtesy of Shana Silver - US Only)
A book of choice (up to $15) anywhere Book Depository delivers! (Courtesy of Shari Green)
1/2 pound of peanut butter flavored tiger butter! (Courtesy of L.S. Taylor - US/Canada Only)
A full manuscript critique! (Courtesy of Tonette dela Luna - International)
Audiobook copy of NEVER ENOUGH by Denise Jaden! (Courtesy of Denise Jaden - International)
A Writers-On-The-Go Kit! (Includes various take-with-you stationary, and of course...chocolate!) (Courtesy of Carol Garvin - U.S./Canada Only)
A previously read and loved copy of ROOMIES, signed by both Sara and Tara! (Courtesy of Shari Green - International)
A first chapter critique! (Courtesy of L.S. Taylor - International)
Copy of your choice of paperback book by Denise Jaden! (Courtesy of Denise Jaden - US Only)
Isn’t that quite the ARSENAL of prizes?! Wow, thank you all!!
Why do we do this, you may ask. Well, I can only answer for myself. First of all, people who set tangible goals and stay accountable with them are as much as 90% more likely to achieve those goals. And I REALLY want to achieve my goals this March. Secondly, I love the camaraderie. This business makes writers feel lonely enough, so any chance I have to feel like I'm not in all of this alone, I'll take it! I love NaNoWriMo each year, but this group is a little more personal. We get to know each other and care about how we're doing on our projects and in our lives. And if one check-in a day is not enough camaraderie for you, we also hang out on Twitter under the hashtag #WIPMadness, so please join in on the conversations there as well.
As for this year's goals, I have two of them. I'd like to revise the book I wrote during NaNoWriMo last year. I already have a strong vision for what to do with this one, so I'm eager to get going. I also plan to first-draft a very short novel (around 20k) that I hope to submit to a specific imprint of a specific publisher. It's a lot, but I believe with all the support here, I will be able to do it.
How about you? What are your goals for this March? Have you done this challenge with us before, and if so, how has it worked out for you? I'd love to hear!
Don't forget to leave your goal(s) in the comments below, and head on over to Carol Garvin's blog this Saturday for your first check-in! Remember, the more you check-in and encourage others, the better chance you have of winning some awesome prizes! And if you set your goal within the next twenty-four hours below, you have a good chance at winning one right away!
ONWARD, Fearless Writers!
Also, this year we've decided to open up the challenge to Readers, Bloggers, and Illustrators. Basically, anyone who wants to challenge themselves regarding books and win prizes for it!
Today is goal-setting day! (But if you don't make it here on the first day, not to worry.
Feel free to add your writing goals here any time during the month of March).
March Madness officially begins March 1st, and this is how it will work.
1. Set a goal here (anything writing, reading, blogging, or otherwise book related). It can be as small and simple of a goal as turning off your Internet while you write, or finishing reading a book you've been trying to get through during the month of March. Or it can be as large as writing or revising an entire book.Sounds easy and fun, right?! The following will be the check-in points for the month of March. Check in as often as you can, as we will be announcing prize winners throughout the month on all of the different blogs, but we're writing too, so we don't have time to chase around anyone who has won.
2. Check in daily through the month of March at our designated check-in points. Let us know how you're doing with your goal. Share your victories and struggles. Encourage others. The key is support and camaraderie.
3. We give you prizes just for stopping by and letting us know how you're doing, and for encouraging others!
We plan to have check-in posts up and running by 9AM PST (noon EST) each day.
Mondays – Visit LS Taylor at http://lstaylor.blogspot.com
Tuesdays – Visit Shari Green at http://www.sharigreen.com
Wednesdays – Visit Shana Silver at http://www.shana-silver.com
Thursdays – Visit Denise Jaden at http://denisejaden.blogspot.com
Fridays – Visit Tonette de la Luna at http://www.tonettedelaluna.com
Saturdays – Visit Carol Garvin at http://careann.wordpress.com
Sundays – Visit Angelina Hansen at http://yascribe.blogspot.com
The prizes ! We have some truly awesome prizes up for grabs this year! I'll start by giving away a prize to one person who comments below with their goals within the next 24 hours!
Here are the prizes that are up for grabs (these are in no particular order and have been donated by my generous co-hosts for this event!) I've added in brackets where we are able to mail each prize:
First Five Pages Manuscript Critique! (Courtesy of Denise's agent, Michelle Humphrey - International)
3 BOXES of popular and new fiction! (Courtesy of Shana Silver - US Only)
A book of choice (up to $15) anywhere Book Depository delivers! (Courtesy of Shari Green)
1/2 pound of peanut butter flavored tiger butter! (Courtesy of L.S. Taylor - US/Canada Only)
A full manuscript critique! (Courtesy of Tonette dela Luna - International)
Audiobook copy of NEVER ENOUGH by Denise Jaden! (Courtesy of Denise Jaden - International)
A Writers-On-The-Go Kit! (Includes various take-with-you stationary, and of course...chocolate!) (Courtesy of Carol Garvin - U.S./Canada Only)
A previously read and loved copy of ROOMIES, signed by both Sara and Tara! (Courtesy of Shari Green - International)
A first chapter critique! (Courtesy of L.S. Taylor - International)
Copy of your choice of paperback book by Denise Jaden! (Courtesy of Denise Jaden - US Only)
Isn’t that quite the ARSENAL of prizes?! Wow, thank you all!!
Why do we do this, you may ask. Well, I can only answer for myself. First of all, people who set tangible goals and stay accountable with them are as much as 90% more likely to achieve those goals. And I REALLY want to achieve my goals this March. Secondly, I love the camaraderie. This business makes writers feel lonely enough, so any chance I have to feel like I'm not in all of this alone, I'll take it! I love NaNoWriMo each year, but this group is a little more personal. We get to know each other and care about how we're doing on our projects and in our lives. And if one check-in a day is not enough camaraderie for you, we also hang out on Twitter under the hashtag #WIPMadness, so please join in on the conversations there as well.
As for this year's goals, I have two of them. I'd like to revise the book I wrote during NaNoWriMo last year. I already have a strong vision for what to do with this one, so I'm eager to get going. I also plan to first-draft a very short novel (around 20k) that I hope to submit to a specific imprint of a specific publisher. It's a lot, but I believe with all the support here, I will be able to do it.
How about you? What are your goals for this March? Have you done this challenge with us before, and if so, how has it worked out for you? I'd love to hear!
Don't forget to leave your goal(s) in the comments below, and head on over to Carol Garvin's blog this Saturday for your first check-in! Remember, the more you check-in and encourage others, the better chance you have of winning some awesome prizes! And if you set your goal within the next twenty-four hours below, you have a good chance at winning one right away!
ONWARD, Fearless Writers!
February 26, 2014
GCC Presents UNFORGOTTEN by Jessica Brody!
UNFORGOTTEN, the second book in the Unremembered Trilogy by Jessica Brody, is now in stores!
Some memories are better left forgotten...
After a daring escape from the scientists at Diotech who created her, Seraphina believes she is finally safe from the horrors of her past. But new threats await Sera and her boyfriend, Zen, at every turn as Zen falls prey to a mysterious illness and Sera’s extraordinary abilities make it more and more difficult to stay hidden. Meanwhile, Diotech has developed a dangerous new weapon designed to apprehend her. A weapon that even Sera will be powerless to stop. Her only hope of saving Zen’s life and defeating the company that made her is a secret buried deep within her mind. A secret that Diotech will kill to protect. And it won’t stay forgotten for long. Packed with mystery, suspense, and romance, this riveting second installment of Jessica Brody’s Unremembered trilogy delivers more heart-pounding action as loyalties are tested, love becomes a weapon, and no one’s memories are safe.
Get a Special FREE Purchase Gift!Download the first 5 Chapters FREE!See Jessica on Tour!Play the Unforgettable Fan Challenge (with guaranteed prizes for all Unforgettable Fans!)
Haven't read Unremembered, the first book in the trilogy? Click here to learn all about it and read the first 5 chapters free! Also be sure to check out, UNDISCOVERED, the eBook novella told from Zen's point of view!
Get a Special FREE Purchase Gift!Download the first 5 Chapters FREE!See Jessica on Tour!Play the Unforgettable Fan Challenge (with guaranteed prizes for all Unforgettable Fans!)
Haven't read Unremembered, the first book in the trilogy? Click here to learn all about it and read the first 5 chapters free! Also be sure to check out, UNDISCOVERED, the eBook novella told from Zen's point of view! February 21, 2014
FAST FICTION Friday, Featuring Elana Johnson and ELEVATED!
As part of Fast Fiction Fridays, I'd like to start featuring some author friends and their new books. Rather than just hearing my point of view all the time, this will give you a chance to hear how other authors outline, or don't, and bring together their ideas for a final draft. I hope these interviews are as interesting for you as they are for me!To kick it off, I'm welcoming Elana Johnson and featuring her new release, ELEVATED!
.jpg)
About ELEVATED: The last person seventeen-year-old Eleanor Livingston wants to see on the elevator—let alone get stuck with—is her ex-boyfriend Travis, the guy she's been avoiding for five months.
Plagued with the belief that when she speaks the truth, bad things happen, Elly hasn’t told Trav anything. Not why she broke up with him and cut off all contact. Not what happened the day her father returned from his deployment to Afghanistan. And certainly not that she misses him and still thinks about him everyday.
But with nowhere to hide and Travis so close it hurts, Elly’s worried she won’t be able to contain her secrets for long. She’s terrified of finally revealing the truth, because she can’t bear to watch a tragedy befall the boy she still loves.
Links:Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | iTunes | GoodReads
Praise for ELEVATED:"ELEVATED will take you on an emotionally gripping journey through the highs and lows of first love."~Carolee Dean, author of Take Me There and Forget Me Not
"Poignant, raw, and intense, ELEVATED is a novel that will grip your heart and linger in your mind long after you turn the last page."~Stasia Ward Kehoe, author of Audition and The Sound of Letting Go
About Elana Johnson:Elana Johnson’s work, including Possession, Surrender, Abandon, and Regret, published by Simon Pulse (Simon & Schuster), is available now everywhere books are sold. Her popular ebook, From the Query to the Call, is also available for free download, as well as a Possession short story, Resist. School teacher by day, Query Ninja by night, you can find her online at her personal blog or Twitter. She also co-founded the Query Tracker blog, and contributes to the League of Extraordinary Writers.Social Media Links:Website/blog: http://elanajohnson.blogspot.com/Twitter: https://twitter.com/ElanaJFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/possessionthebookTumblr: http://elanajohnson.tumblr.com/Wattpad: http://www.wattpad.com/user/elanajohnsonLeague of Extraordinary Writers: http://leaguewriters.blogspot.com/WriteOnCon: http://writeoncon.com/Elana on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4044383.Elana_Johnson
Interview with Elana:1. How fast is the fastest you’ve ever written a firstdraft of a novel? Was this unusual or do you always draft in about the same time frame?I wrote POSSESSION (my first published novel) in only 17 days. This is very fast, and I've never been able to replicate it. The reason is that now I don't have as much time devoted to just drafting. I've found that I usually start a book, get about half of it done, and get bored or stumped about what to do next. So I leave it -- sometimes for months. When I come back to it, I can usually finish it pretty quickly. So that's why it takes me "months" to write a book now.2. Do you outline your work ahead of time or fly by the seat of your pants? Any tips or tricks about what makes this method word for you?I am a pantser when I draft. I like to have the story feel organic and take the turns it wants to take. I am slow to start stories -- I usually stew on ideas and characters for several months (or even years!) before writing them. For example, with ELEVATED, I got the idea to write about people stuck in an elevator about 5 years ago. I didn't write the book until about 2 years ago. I just don't have a fast mind for developing, I guess.
After I finish drafting the novel, I outline it using Blake Snyder's "Save the Cat" method for screenwriting. He has 15 beats that every successful movie (story) should have. I follow his guidelines and try to get my beats in the right place at the right time. This helps me find plot issues, character problems, and an idea of what needs to be revised.
3. When you first get a germ of an idea for a new story, do you usually start by developing the characters or the plot first?Character. Always character. To me, stories are about people, not plots. So I need a compelling character that has Things They Need to Learn before I can write.
4. Are you an over-writer or an under-writer (meaning, after you write a first draft, do you usually spend time cutting lots of unnecessary sections of words, or filling in sections that are bare?)I am an over-writer. I can't seem to write a first draft that's less than 80,000 words. And that count usually goes UP during revisions before it goes down!
5. What’s your favorite book on the craft of writing? What do you like best about this book?
I'll admit that I don't read very many of these... I did read all of Blake Snyder's "Save the Cat" series, because it made sense to the structure part of storytelling. And I read a few sections in "Stein on Writing" by Sol Stein. His stuff on pacing really helped me.
Thanks so much for visiting, Elana, and congratulations on ELEVATED! I can't wait to read it!
If you're an author who would like to be featured on Fast Fiction Friday, answer the above interview questions, and send them along with some information about your book to d(at)denisejaden(dot)com.
February 18, 2014
2nd Release Day for FAST FICTION! (kind of)
When I was first given a release day for FAST FICTION, it was February 18th. That date has stuck in my mind through many months of revising and editing. My publisher had suggested I wait until books would definitely be available everywhere before promoting the book and launching my blog tour. So that is set for the week of March 3rd. Then I noticed Amazon had it scheduled to release on February 11th! So I've never had so much ambiguity with a release date...but actually, I kind of like it. It's like the party just keeps going and going!I wanted to share a few things happening, if you're interested in celebrating with me.
Today, I'm over at the Writer's Digest Blog, talking about How to Write a Fast-Draft Novel. There's also a copy of FAST FICTION up for grabs there.
I also have several upcoming in-person events, starting with tonight:
Tuesday, February 18, 2014Golden Ears Writing GroupPresentation on Fast Fiction at 7 PMACT in Maple Ridge, B.C.(Open to the public.)
Saturday, March 1, 2014Signing at the New World Library booth - 1 PMWorkshop/Panel: Crafting Heartbreak 3 PMAWP Conference, Seattle, WA(Open to the public, but you must register.)
Saturday, March 8, 2014Workshop on Fast Fiction, 1 PMBlaine Library, Blaine, WA(Open to the public.)
Tuesday, March 18, 2014Talk on my background and processat Third Place Books - 7 PMLake Forest Park, WA(Open to the public.)www.thirdplacebooks.com
If you're local, I hope you'll drop by to one of these! If you're not, I hope you'll join me for my blog tour, starting right here on March 3rd. Lots of prizes to be won, including writing books, courtesy of New World Library, full boxes of great fiction, audiobooks, and an agent critique!
I'm also gearing up for MARCH MADNESS WRITING CHALLENGE! If you've never joined in on this event, I hope you'll drop by and give it a try this year. There's a huge growing group of us who cheer each other on to meet self-imposed goals through the month of March. This starts February 27th right here!
I hope to see you back here soon, and in the meantime, happy reading and writing!
February 14, 2014
Fast Fiction Friday!
Happy Valentine's Day! If you haven't entered the Heartbreaker's Blog Tour contest yet for a Kindle loaded with awesome ebooks, there's still time!
This Fast Fiction Friday I'm celebrating! My new book FAST FICTION, is officially out in stores this week (and available on Kindle and ebook, wherever online books are sold!) I've already been hearing some wonderful reviews, and I'm so thankful people are getting something out of the book.
A few things I wanted to let you know about:
There is a GoodReads Giveaway going on right now for three copies of FAST FICTION, courtesy of New World Library.
The official blog tour for FAST FICTION will begin right here on March 3rd. I hope you'll stop back, as there will be TONS of prizes, including a critique from my agent, boxes of books I'm giving away, and a whole slew of writing books, including FAST FICTION, thanks to New World Library!
If you have an active blog and would like to be part of this tour, please let me know!
In lieu of this milestone, today's Fast Fiction Friday tip is very simple: Take time to celebrate your successes! I'll be celebrating this weekend with a bottle of wine I've been saving and some Lindt chocolate. What do you celebrate with, and when is the last time you've celebrated a writing accomplishment?
This Fast Fiction Friday I'm celebrating! My new book FAST FICTION, is officially out in stores this week (and available on Kindle and ebook, wherever online books are sold!) I've already been hearing some wonderful reviews, and I'm so thankful people are getting something out of the book.
A few things I wanted to let you know about:
There is a GoodReads Giveaway going on right now for three copies of FAST FICTION, courtesy of New World Library.The official blog tour for FAST FICTION will begin right here on March 3rd. I hope you'll stop back, as there will be TONS of prizes, including a critique from my agent, boxes of books I'm giving away, and a whole slew of writing books, including FAST FICTION, thanks to New World Library!
If you have an active blog and would like to be part of this tour, please let me know!
In lieu of this milestone, today's Fast Fiction Friday tip is very simple: Take time to celebrate your successes! I'll be celebrating this weekend with a bottle of wine I've been saving and some Lindt chocolate. What do you celebrate with, and when is the last time you've celebrated a writing accomplishment?
February 13, 2014
Kindle Fire HDX Giveaway!
Win a Kindle Fire HDX, Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash ($229 value) This is a joint AUTHOR & BLOGGER GIVEAWAY EVENT! Bloggers & Authors have joined together and each chipped in a little money towards a Kindle Fire HDX 7" (or $229 Amazon Gift Card or $229 in Paypal Cash).
All New Kindle Fire HDX 7" GiveawayThe winner will have the option of receiving a 7" Kindle Fire HDX (US Only - $229 Value)
Or $229 Amazon.com Gift Card (International)
Or $229 in Paypal Cash (International)
Giveaway SponsorsI Am A Reader, Not A WriterFeed Your ReaderAuthor Clover AutreyBuried Under RomanceChosen by You Book ClubAuthor Elizabeth WoodrumAuthor Elizabeth IsaacsAuthor Fabio BuenoFae BooksGins Book Notes and DesignAuthor Inger IversenParanormal Book ClubHallowed Ink PressThe Storybook KingdomThe (Mis)Adventures of a Twenty-Something Year Old GirlStuffed ShelvesAuggie TalkBook AngeltopiaJennifer LaurensAstraea PressAuthor Joselyn VaughnAuthor Wendy KnightRumor Has ItAuthor Sandy GreenAuthor Sherry GloagAuthor M. KircherAuthor Allan LeveroneAuthor Jo GraffordAuthor Jennifer Rae GravelyAuthor P.M. RichterAuthor Ash KraftonAuthor Rae Z. RyansI Feel the Need, The Need to ReadThe Society of YA StorytellersAuthor Laurie TreacyQuality BookWorks ServicesAuthor Diane CapriAuthor Carole LanhamBound4EscapeAuthor J.L. WeilReviews from a BookwormWhere The Broken Lie by Derek RempferBrenda Maxfield's Smart and Sassy Teen ReadsAuthor Kimber Leigh WheatonParanormal Romance Author Rebecca HamiltonBonnie Blythe's Pure RomanceBella Street Weird RomanceA Leisure MomentBea's Book NookDanielle @ Coffee and CharactersBookHoundsThe Stubby PencilFrances PauliThe Sylver LiningSweet Romance ReadsAuthor Donna FasanoOwl Always Be ReadingThe Reporter and The GirlAuthor David Michael SlaterAuthor Daniel PikeThe Late Bloomer's Book BlogAuthor Marilla MulwaneBarbara Silkstone: Second Art CafeElizabeth Parkinson Bellows Sign up to sponsor the next Kindle Fire Giveaway: http://www.iamareader.com/category/kindle-giveaway-sign-ups Giveaway Details 1 winner will receive their choice of an all new Kindle Fire 7" HDX (US Only - $229 value), $229 Amazon Gift Card or $229 in Paypal Cash (International). There is a second separate giveaway for bloggers who post this giveaway on their blog. See details in the rafflecopter on how to enter to win the 2nd Kindle Fire HDX 7". Ends 3/16/14 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the participating authors & bloggers. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. a Rafflecopter giveaway
February 12, 2014
Writing Prompt Wednesday: The Creaky Staircase
Think about adding a little bit of physically-based fear to your character's life today. It doesn't have to be a creaky staircase, but that's one sound that always invokes fear in me, especially if I'm home alone.
Start with yourself. If you were home alone, what would strike some fear into you? Would a sound be enough? What about a creepy phone call, or a shadow outside your windows?
What makes your character afraid? Is there some sound or sight or smell that would invoke fear in him or her? Bring that on today and see what your character does with it. Do they avoid the fear, face the fear, bury their head under blankets? And how does your character's reaction differ from your own?
Start with yourself. If you were home alone, what would strike some fear into you? Would a sound be enough? What about a creepy phone call, or a shadow outside your windows?
What makes your character afraid? Is there some sound or sight or smell that would invoke fear in him or her? Bring that on today and see what your character does with it. Do they avoid the fear, face the fear, bury their head under blankets? And how does your character's reaction differ from your own?
February 10, 2014
Heartbreakers Blog Tour!
In case you've missed me on Facebook and Twitter, I just thought I should mention this hear as well:
The Heartbreakers Blog Tour is on!
It all started at Judith Tewes Blog (you can find out more about it there) and it includes 14 YA/NA authors.
The prize? A new KINDLE LOADED WITH OUR EBOOKS!
If you haven't stopped by yet to enter, you still have all week. My first two stops were at:
Day 1 (Sunday) - A Life Bound By Books Where you can find out which fictional character(s) I'd like to spend Valentine's Day with!
Day 2 (Monday) - For What it's Worth Blog Where you can find out my thoughts on soul-mates!
And here's where I'll be for the rest of the week:
Day 3 (Tuesday): http://Jennzah.net
Day 4 (Wednesday): http://judithteweswrites.blogspot.ca
Day 5 (Thursday): http://ashleynposton.com
Day 6 (Friday): http://littlelibrarymuse.blogspot.com
Day 7 (Saturday): www.simpleloveofreading.blogspot.com
I hope you'll drop by, find out a little more about me and some other YA/NA authors, and enter to win!
The Heartbreakers Blog Tour is on!It all started at Judith Tewes Blog (you can find out more about it there) and it includes 14 YA/NA authors.
The prize? A new KINDLE LOADED WITH OUR EBOOKS!
If you haven't stopped by yet to enter, you still have all week. My first two stops were at:
Day 1 (Sunday) - A Life Bound By Books Where you can find out which fictional character(s) I'd like to spend Valentine's Day with!
Day 2 (Monday) - For What it's Worth Blog Where you can find out my thoughts on soul-mates!
And here's where I'll be for the rest of the week:
Day 3 (Tuesday): http://Jennzah.net
Day 4 (Wednesday): http://judithteweswrites.blogspot.ca
Day 5 (Thursday): http://ashleynposton.com
Day 6 (Friday): http://littlelibrarymuse.blogspot.com
Day 7 (Saturday): www.simpleloveofreading.blogspot.com
I hope you'll drop by, find out a little more about me and some other YA/NA authors, and enter to win!
