Denise Jaden's Blog, page 20
March 15, 2013
March Madness Check-In Day 15! #WIPMadness
If you haven't heard about my good news yet, you can find the full story here. Lots and lots of excitement for me lately!
If you're here to check in for March Madness, great! If you think March Madness is all about basketball, let me enlighten you. OUR March Madness is about books: setting and achieving goals to do with writing, reading, blogging, or illustrating throughout the month of March. If you haven't set any goals yet, it's not too late! Find out more and set your goals here. And why should you bother? Well, besides the fact that you'll have some great accomplishment to show at the end of ONE MONTH, my March Madness hosts and I are also offering some pretty stellar prizes. You can check those out when you set your goals, but for now, let me toss another prize out to one of our dedicated participants!
The next prize goes to: Candilynn! Congratulations, Candilynn! You can drop by this post to pick your prize from the remaining prizes. Email your choice to d(at)denisejaden(dot)com and I'll make sure we get it out to you!
(Just a note--the hosts are busy with their March goals as well. We don't have time to chase people around to give them prizes, so I'm afraid if you miss checking in and miss your name being announced, you'll also miss out on a prize. See, even more incentive to check in every day!)
While trying to figure out what to make this week's post about, I couldn't stop reflecting on one particular highlight from my recent trip to Mexico. I was aboard a cruise ship, and for those of you who haven't cruised before, most big cruise ships offer nightly entertainment. I have been a professional performer for most of my life, so, to be honest, my expectations of cruise ship entertainment were not exactly high. But I still went to watch. It was something to do.
On one particular night, I was blown away, and it takes a lot to do that to me. There was a performance by an Olympic gymnast/acrobat, Lance Ringnald that was beyond skillful, plus entertaining and hilarious. The guy cracked jokes on his wireless mic as he did handstand push-ups OVER THE EDGE OF THE STAGE!
Besides that, he started juggling a variety of objects, then proceeded to plop himself down at a piano to play and sing for us!
Anyway, you may wonder how this has to do with writing and completing your March goals. I'm still working that all out. I can tell you, though, that I am feeling inspired to work harder than I have in the past, simply from being around this guy. He talked a lot about continually challenging himself in new ways (thus the juggling and musical skills) and it really inspired me in so many ways.
Lance Ringnald also wrote a book, which I picked up on the cruise ship and devoured the first half of on the plane ride home. It's an autobiography, reflecting on competition from his early years, to the Olympics, and beyond. All through the book, I couldn't help relating to him in his journey.
As writers, we pour our blood, sweat, and tears into our work. We often rewrite entire four hundred page manuscripts from scratch, only to discover that there's something vitally wrong with the entire premise. Hundreds and hundreds of hours, we pour our focus into our writing, not knowing if anything will become of it, or if it'll just end up in the Recycle Bin of our hard drives. Lance Ringnald would probably fall off of his pommel horse at the thought of comparing writing a book to Olympic gymnastic training, but I'm going to do it anyway. Because most writers I know work freakin' hard at their craft, day in and day out, not knowing if it will ever amount to anything, but having to stir up their hope each day just the same. We love it. We can't stop doing it. But it's still damn hard work. As my good author-friend Eileen Cook says, "Life would be so much easier if I really really wanted to be a plumber."
Writing--or at least writing to get traditionally published--can often feel like a competition. There's simply not enough room for all the books that are written to find a place in traditional publishing. The ones that connect with the right editor of the right publishing house on the right day is a very small number. And that's not even to mention finding the right readers for our books. There is a certain amount of kismet involved, and it can be disheartening if today just isn't your day, or if this year just isn't your year for everything to line up.
I love anything that gives me a little bit of hope to push on. I want to constantly continue to challenge myself, regardless of what rejections or acceptances I may be receiving. We can look at the writers around us and decide to hate them because they may take our coveted spot in the publishing world, or pick at the ones we feel are sub par. Or we can look to the really excellent writers and people in this world in order to draw inspiration. We can let them push us on to be better than we ever thought we could be. That's what Lance Ringnald did while training with, and then competing against, some of the best gymnasts in the world. He trained in the same gym alongside gymnasts he would be up against in his next meet. And there are things even in highly competitive gymnastics that aren't always fair. I figure we all have a choice: we can spend our time grumbling about things that are unjust, or we can go searching our world for inspiration and then doing the work to give ourselves at least a chance of success.
I will come back with a full review of Lance's book when I finish reading (it's hard to find time to read when I'm not on vacation!) but I highly recommend this book for anyone in any field who is looking for a little inspiration or added perspective.
Going into the third week of an ambitious month-long goal is usually the time I need inspiration the most. So I showed you mine...
What or who inspires you the most? Is it always something writing related, or have you found something outside of writing that you can draw inspiration from? And how has your progress been on your March goals so far?
Don't forget to check in at Kim's blog tomorrow.
If you're here to check in for March Madness, great! If you think March Madness is all about basketball, let me enlighten you. OUR March Madness is about books: setting and achieving goals to do with writing, reading, blogging, or illustrating throughout the month of March. If you haven't set any goals yet, it's not too late! Find out more and set your goals here. And why should you bother? Well, besides the fact that you'll have some great accomplishment to show at the end of ONE MONTH, my March Madness hosts and I are also offering some pretty stellar prizes. You can check those out when you set your goals, but for now, let me toss another prize out to one of our dedicated participants!
The next prize goes to: Candilynn! Congratulations, Candilynn! You can drop by this post to pick your prize from the remaining prizes. Email your choice to d(at)denisejaden(dot)com and I'll make sure we get it out to you!
(Just a note--the hosts are busy with their March goals as well. We don't have time to chase people around to give them prizes, so I'm afraid if you miss checking in and miss your name being announced, you'll also miss out on a prize. See, even more incentive to check in every day!)
While trying to figure out what to make this week's post about, I couldn't stop reflecting on one particular highlight from my recent trip to Mexico. I was aboard a cruise ship, and for those of you who haven't cruised before, most big cruise ships offer nightly entertainment. I have been a professional performer for most of my life, so, to be honest, my expectations of cruise ship entertainment were not exactly high. But I still went to watch. It was something to do.
On one particular night, I was blown away, and it takes a lot to do that to me. There was a performance by an Olympic gymnast/acrobat, Lance Ringnald that was beyond skillful, plus entertaining and hilarious. The guy cracked jokes on his wireless mic as he did handstand push-ups OVER THE EDGE OF THE STAGE!Besides that, he started juggling a variety of objects, then proceeded to plop himself down at a piano to play and sing for us!
Anyway, you may wonder how this has to do with writing and completing your March goals. I'm still working that all out. I can tell you, though, that I am feeling inspired to work harder than I have in the past, simply from being around this guy. He talked a lot about continually challenging himself in new ways (thus the juggling and musical skills) and it really inspired me in so many ways.
Lance Ringnald also wrote a book, which I picked up on the cruise ship and devoured the first half of on the plane ride home. It's an autobiography, reflecting on competition from his early years, to the Olympics, and beyond. All through the book, I couldn't help relating to him in his journey.As writers, we pour our blood, sweat, and tears into our work. We often rewrite entire four hundred page manuscripts from scratch, only to discover that there's something vitally wrong with the entire premise. Hundreds and hundreds of hours, we pour our focus into our writing, not knowing if anything will become of it, or if it'll just end up in the Recycle Bin of our hard drives. Lance Ringnald would probably fall off of his pommel horse at the thought of comparing writing a book to Olympic gymnastic training, but I'm going to do it anyway. Because most writers I know work freakin' hard at their craft, day in and day out, not knowing if it will ever amount to anything, but having to stir up their hope each day just the same. We love it. We can't stop doing it. But it's still damn hard work. As my good author-friend Eileen Cook says, "Life would be so much easier if I really really wanted to be a plumber."
Writing--or at least writing to get traditionally published--can often feel like a competition. There's simply not enough room for all the books that are written to find a place in traditional publishing. The ones that connect with the right editor of the right publishing house on the right day is a very small number. And that's not even to mention finding the right readers for our books. There is a certain amount of kismet involved, and it can be disheartening if today just isn't your day, or if this year just isn't your year for everything to line up.
I love anything that gives me a little bit of hope to push on. I want to constantly continue to challenge myself, regardless of what rejections or acceptances I may be receiving. We can look at the writers around us and decide to hate them because they may take our coveted spot in the publishing world, or pick at the ones we feel are sub par. Or we can look to the really excellent writers and people in this world in order to draw inspiration. We can let them push us on to be better than we ever thought we could be. That's what Lance Ringnald did while training with, and then competing against, some of the best gymnasts in the world. He trained in the same gym alongside gymnasts he would be up against in his next meet. And there are things even in highly competitive gymnastics that aren't always fair. I figure we all have a choice: we can spend our time grumbling about things that are unjust, or we can go searching our world for inspiration and then doing the work to give ourselves at least a chance of success.
I will come back with a full review of Lance's book when I finish reading (it's hard to find time to read when I'm not on vacation!) but I highly recommend this book for anyone in any field who is looking for a little inspiration or added perspective.
Going into the third week of an ambitious month-long goal is usually the time I need inspiration the most. So I showed you mine...
What or who inspires you the most? Is it always something writing related, or have you found something outside of writing that you can draw inspiration from? And how has your progress been on your March goals so far?
Don't forget to check in at Kim's blog tomorrow.
March 13, 2013
Author Interview: Jessica Brody and UNREMEMBERED!
Jessica Brody has a new book out! This one looks awesome, and it's the start of a series, so I'm really excited about that. Read on, because Jessica stopped by to talk a little about UNREMEMBERED, and left a link so you can read the first five chapters!
SUMMARY: The only thing worse than forgetting her past...is remembering it.
When Freedom Airlines flight 121 went down over the Pacific Ocean, no one ever expected to find a single survivor; which is why the sixteen-year-old girl discovered floating amid the wreckage—alive—is making headlines across the globe. She has no memories of boarding the plane. She has no memories of her life before the crash. She has no memories…period. As she struggles to piece together her forgotten past and discover who she really is, every clue raises more questions. Her only hope is a strangely alluring boy who claims to know her. Who claims they were in love. But can she really trust him? And will he be able to protect her from the people who have been making her forget?
Set in a world where science knows no boundaries and memories are manipulated UNREMEMBEREDby Jessica Brody is the first novel in a compelling, romantic, and suspenseful new sci-fi trilogy for teens.
INTERVIEW WITH JESSICA:
Welcome, Jessica! Can you tell me about your book in seven words or less?Some memories are better left...unremembered.
Other than your main character, who's a favorite character of yours in your novel and why?I have to say Cody, Seraphina’s 13-year-old foster brother. This genre was brand new for me. My first time venturing into the world of sci-fi. And as all my contemporaries were comedies, it was oftentimes a challenge for me to write something darker and more serious (see evidence above.) Cody, however, is the comic relief of the novel. So writing him was like a little link back to my comfort zone. I always felt like I was “home” when I wrote him. And it gave me the opportunity to make fun of myself a little. While Sera’s storyline is rather dark and mysterious and all these harrowing things are happening around her, Cody can always be counted on to lighten the mood with a comedic crack on her situation.
What's one piece of writing advice you would give to aspiring authors?Regardless if you’re a bestselling author with twenty books under your belt or you’re just starting out, writing is a craft that needs to be constantly honed. Try to write every day. Even if the stuff that’s coming out reads like a third grade book report. Sometimes you have to get the crap out in order to get to the good stuff. And sometimes, writing just to write is the only way to get a book done. Even if it means having to go back later and delete it all!
What did you write when you were a teen? Did you journal? Write poetry? Write overly literary or emotional stories? Or avoid writing altogether?I wrote really bad poetry. No one will ever see it again. Even me.
What's the last book you read that you really loved?I’m currently reading GONE GIRL by Gillian Flynn and it is beyond brilliant. I have gasped aloud more than once. Now that’s how you know when you have a good book in your hands.
REVIEWS: “Unremembered is a story brimming with mystery and suspense, star-crossed love and mad scientists. I felt like a detective putting together the pieces of Seraphina’s forgotten past right along with her, and the masterful way the puzzle was finally revealed left me speechless.”—Marissa Meyer, New York Times bestselling author of Cinder
“Unremembered is an awesome book! I was pulling for Seraphina from the opening chapters, and couldn’t wait to read what happened next—and I LOVED the twist at the end.” —P.C. Cast, New York TimesBestselling author of the House of Night series.
“Gripping story…harrowing action…The first in Brody’s new science-fiction series should snare enough attention to have folks tapping their feet for the sequel.”
- Booklist
"Unremembered" is the first in a young adult sci-fi trilogy that is a page-turning adventure of self-discovery.” – Deseret News
“Fast-paced and sure to satisfy romance-oriented readers”
- Kirkus
AUTHOR BIO:
JESSICA BRODY knew from a young age that she wanted to be a writer. She started self “publishing” her own books when she was seven years old, binding the pages together with cardboard, wallpaper samples and electrical tape. She is the author of 52 Reasons to Hate My Father, My Life Undecided, The Karma Club, and now, Unremembered. Her books have been translated and published in over 15 countries. She currently splits her time between California and Colorado. www.jessicabrody.com
Readers can download thefirst five chapters FREE!Like the Unremembered Trilogy on Facebook:Meet Jessica on tour this month!
March 11, 2013
Good News! (It comes in THREE'S!)
I have had some really wonderful news lately. So much that I truly feel humbled by it. Some of it is a little older news than others, but I've had to sit on it for various reasons. I think this is finally all okay to share (and even if it's not, I'm going to anyway, lest I explode.)
I was thinking I should start with the least exciting thing and work my way up, but the thing is, all three of these things are REALLY exciting, at least for me. I have to start somewhere, so let's start in the order I've heard about these awesome nuggets of news.
1. I MADE MY FIRST FOREIGN RIGHTS DEAL!!!! I know, I know, it deserves more exclamation points. But I have to save some for my other good news. I heard, quite a while ago now, that Hungarian publisher Konymolykepzo Publishing House will publish NEVER ENOUGH! They publish 200 titles per year (and mine is one of them!) such as the Twilight series, Cassandra Clare, Lauren Kate, and Becca Fitzpatrick. I'm keeping wonderful company these days!
I wasn't sure exactly when I could share this, but I just received the contracts, already signed by the publisher, so I think it's okay now.
2. I'M GOING TO HAVE AN AMAZING NEW AUDIOBOOK! I mentioned on my blog a couple of weeks ago that my first audiobook is in production with AN ULTRA-COOL NARRATOR. There were things like contracts and approvals to deal with before I could officially tell you who it is, but I think it's fine now. Especially since the audiobook should be available in only a couple of months! This is for the audiobook of LOSING FAITH, and the narrator is Becca Battoe! If you're not jumping up and down with recognition yet, I'll explain further: Becca Battoe is the narrator of the FIFTY SHADES OF GREY series!
So, um, just so we're clear...LOSING FAITH is nothing like FIFTY SHADES OF GREY in its themes and whatnot. And Becca has also narrated for authors like Judy Blume. But lets face it, I got your attention with the Fifty Shades thing.
Becca is a very experienced, talented, and sought-after narrator and I'm absolutely THRILLED that she has taken LOSING FAITH into her production schedule. I've already had the opportunity to listen to the first fifteen minutes of LOSING FAITH. I promise you, even if you've already read the book, the audiobook is going to be so worth getting. You're going to love it from the very first line!
3. And here is my most recent good news...I admit, this one is probably the most exciting to me, because it is the most recent. I was on the way from the airport to the cruise ship I would be boarding with my mom, just last week, when I got a very good email from my agent.
I SOLD ANOTHER BOOK!!!!! All my March Madness/#WIPMadness buddies will appreciate this one. It's a non-fiction book for writers. Some of you may remember that I self-published WRITING WITH A HEAVY HEART. While my agent loved that one, she felt it was too short to be traditionally salable. I admit, since it's been a while since I've worked on that book, my confidence wanes from time to time. I wonder if I really had anything useful to say, or if it was all just my silly drivel that no one else would truly be interested in. So, for me, when I made a deal to publish FAST FICTION with New World Library, this was a huge confidence boost for me. I really feel like a viable non-fiction AND a fiction author now. With my previous traditional publishing contracts, it took many months (I think even over a year once) to receive and finalize contracts, but with New World Library, look! It's already official!
I don't have an official synopsis of FAST FICTION yet, but I'll tell you a little bit about it. It's geared at writers who are interested in a NaNoWriMo-like challenge, but don't want to waste their time on something that will not be publishable in the end. It is made up of three parts: the first is a section on brainstorming, creating a loose story plan, and making that plan as strong as possible. The second section is a day-by-day set of tips and motivations to get writers through a month of fast drafting. The third is a very short section on revision.
I'm absolutely THRILLED that this book is going to find its place in this world and I'm so incredibly grateful for this and all of my recent good news. I've kind of been celebrating all week, with the cruise and all, but I hope you'll all still celebrate with me here. Because, really, the only people that understand the magnitude of these things are other writers, right?
*Hands each of you a glass of virtual champagne*
I was thinking I should start with the least exciting thing and work my way up, but the thing is, all three of these things are REALLY exciting, at least for me. I have to start somewhere, so let's start in the order I've heard about these awesome nuggets of news.
1. I MADE MY FIRST FOREIGN RIGHTS DEAL!!!! I know, I know, it deserves more exclamation points. But I have to save some for my other good news. I heard, quite a while ago now, that Hungarian publisher Konymolykepzo Publishing House will publish NEVER ENOUGH! They publish 200 titles per year (and mine is one of them!) such as the Twilight series, Cassandra Clare, Lauren Kate, and Becca Fitzpatrick. I'm keeping wonderful company these days!
I wasn't sure exactly when I could share this, but I just received the contracts, already signed by the publisher, so I think it's okay now.
2. I'M GOING TO HAVE AN AMAZING NEW AUDIOBOOK! I mentioned on my blog a couple of weeks ago that my first audiobook is in production with AN ULTRA-COOL NARRATOR. There were things like contracts and approvals to deal with before I could officially tell you who it is, but I think it's fine now. Especially since the audiobook should be available in only a couple of months! This is for the audiobook of LOSING FAITH, and the narrator is Becca Battoe! If you're not jumping up and down with recognition yet, I'll explain further: Becca Battoe is the narrator of the FIFTY SHADES OF GREY series!
So, um, just so we're clear...LOSING FAITH is nothing like FIFTY SHADES OF GREY in its themes and whatnot. And Becca has also narrated for authors like Judy Blume. But lets face it, I got your attention with the Fifty Shades thing.
Becca is a very experienced, talented, and sought-after narrator and I'm absolutely THRILLED that she has taken LOSING FAITH into her production schedule. I've already had the opportunity to listen to the first fifteen minutes of LOSING FAITH. I promise you, even if you've already read the book, the audiobook is going to be so worth getting. You're going to love it from the very first line!
3. And here is my most recent good news...I admit, this one is probably the most exciting to me, because it is the most recent. I was on the way from the airport to the cruise ship I would be boarding with my mom, just last week, when I got a very good email from my agent.
I SOLD ANOTHER BOOK!!!!! All my March Madness/#WIPMadness buddies will appreciate this one. It's a non-fiction book for writers. Some of you may remember that I self-published WRITING WITH A HEAVY HEART. While my agent loved that one, she felt it was too short to be traditionally salable. I admit, since it's been a while since I've worked on that book, my confidence wanes from time to time. I wonder if I really had anything useful to say, or if it was all just my silly drivel that no one else would truly be interested in. So, for me, when I made a deal to publish FAST FICTION with New World Library, this was a huge confidence boost for me. I really feel like a viable non-fiction AND a fiction author now. With my previous traditional publishing contracts, it took many months (I think even over a year once) to receive and finalize contracts, but with New World Library, look! It's already official!
I don't have an official synopsis of FAST FICTION yet, but I'll tell you a little bit about it. It's geared at writers who are interested in a NaNoWriMo-like challenge, but don't want to waste their time on something that will not be publishable in the end. It is made up of three parts: the first is a section on brainstorming, creating a loose story plan, and making that plan as strong as possible. The second section is a day-by-day set of tips and motivations to get writers through a month of fast drafting. The third is a very short section on revision.
I'm absolutely THRILLED that this book is going to find its place in this world and I'm so incredibly grateful for this and all of my recent good news. I've kind of been celebrating all week, with the cruise and all, but I hope you'll all still celebrate with me here. Because, really, the only people that understand the magnitude of these things are other writers, right?
*Hands each of you a glass of virtual champagne*
March 8, 2013
March Madness Check-In Day 8! #WIPMadness
I am so excited about this first week of March Madness! Not only have we had huge participation, but also we have bloggers and readers and illustrators involved this year! Plus we've already seen people reaching some of their goals!
Besides that, I have some more great news! One of my favorite March Madness cohorts (ok, you're all my favorites) Deb Marshall, has just told me she'll be donating $25 for a craft book of choice to one of our lucky participants! I'll be starting to award prizes next week, so make sure you don't miss your name being announced at any of our check ins.
We have seen some great goals accomplished in the last week already. But...that's not true for everyone. Because sometimes life gets in the way, doesn't it?
I admit, life is getting in the way for me in a pretty good way this week. I'm writing this post from sunny Mexico! For me, this time around, it's the lure of cocktails and swimming pools and sandy beaches that has been threatening to keep my from my March Madness project. It's also been nearly impossible for me to find wifi in order to check in. But if you're struggling with health or money or relational issues, or over-commitments in your life...I have also been there.
Here's the first rule to helping yourself get back to the writing: Don't beat yourself up about it.
It's true, stuff in life will get in our way, and some of it is completely unavoidable. But I honestly think what gets MORE in our way is our own attitudes. When we feel angry or guilty or frustrated with ourselves because of our lack of production, that only multiplies the problem. So give yourself a break. Have you already had to take a day or a few days off of writing this month? It's not the end of the world. What would be worse is sitting around and moping about it for the rest of the month. See if you can make time today to squeeze in a hundred words on your latest project. It's something, and it may break the negative words that are playing on repeat in your mind.
If life is getting in your way, here's a second thing you can focus on: Use your creativity to find more time.
We are all creative people. That's why we're here. Do you have someone in your life you could ask for a little help from that would free you up for a couple of hours per week? Can you keep a pad of paper with you on your lunch hour to brainstorm plot points or snippets of dialogue? Since having a young child in my life, I have learned that I can't always have one-hour writing blocks, no matter how much I want them. It took me some time, but I've learned how to be productive in five minute slots, if that's all I have. How can you be creative in order to get more done this month?
And one more suggestion: Encourage others.
Even if you are struggling on your project, reach out at our check-ins and encourage others. Put a smile on your face as you do it, even if you don't feel like it. Don't get caught up in jealousy over those who are writing more than you (or those who are writing from Mexico). Be positive for others, even if you don't feel you can do it for yourself right now. I promise, your kind words and encouragement will come back to you just when you most need it.
So even if you haven't made the progress you'd hoped for so far this month, make a commitment with me right now to get back on that horse. We still have THREE weeks left! In the comments, tell me you're with me, or I'd love to hear how you have overcome life getting in the way of your writing, either this week or in the past. What has worked for you?
Don't forget to stop by Kim Baccellia's blog tomorrow to check in!
Besides that, I have some more great news! One of my favorite March Madness cohorts (ok, you're all my favorites) Deb Marshall, has just told me she'll be donating $25 for a craft book of choice to one of our lucky participants! I'll be starting to award prizes next week, so make sure you don't miss your name being announced at any of our check ins.
We have seen some great goals accomplished in the last week already. But...that's not true for everyone. Because sometimes life gets in the way, doesn't it?
I admit, life is getting in the way for me in a pretty good way this week. I'm writing this post from sunny Mexico! For me, this time around, it's the lure of cocktails and swimming pools and sandy beaches that has been threatening to keep my from my March Madness project. It's also been nearly impossible for me to find wifi in order to check in. But if you're struggling with health or money or relational issues, or over-commitments in your life...I have also been there.
Here's the first rule to helping yourself get back to the writing: Don't beat yourself up about it.
It's true, stuff in life will get in our way, and some of it is completely unavoidable. But I honestly think what gets MORE in our way is our own attitudes. When we feel angry or guilty or frustrated with ourselves because of our lack of production, that only multiplies the problem. So give yourself a break. Have you already had to take a day or a few days off of writing this month? It's not the end of the world. What would be worse is sitting around and moping about it for the rest of the month. See if you can make time today to squeeze in a hundred words on your latest project. It's something, and it may break the negative words that are playing on repeat in your mind.
If life is getting in your way, here's a second thing you can focus on: Use your creativity to find more time.
We are all creative people. That's why we're here. Do you have someone in your life you could ask for a little help from that would free you up for a couple of hours per week? Can you keep a pad of paper with you on your lunch hour to brainstorm plot points or snippets of dialogue? Since having a young child in my life, I have learned that I can't always have one-hour writing blocks, no matter how much I want them. It took me some time, but I've learned how to be productive in five minute slots, if that's all I have. How can you be creative in order to get more done this month?
And one more suggestion: Encourage others.
Even if you are struggling on your project, reach out at our check-ins and encourage others. Put a smile on your face as you do it, even if you don't feel like it. Don't get caught up in jealousy over those who are writing more than you (or those who are writing from Mexico). Be positive for others, even if you don't feel you can do it for yourself right now. I promise, your kind words and encouragement will come back to you just when you most need it.
So even if you haven't made the progress you'd hoped for so far this month, make a commitment with me right now to get back on that horse. We still have THREE weeks left! In the comments, tell me you're with me, or I'd love to hear how you have overcome life getting in the way of your writing, either this week or in the past. What has worked for you?
Don't forget to stop by Kim Baccellia's blog tomorrow to check in!
March 1, 2013
MARCH MADNESS IS HERE! #WIPMADNESS
If you’ve been looking for a challenge to get your writing in 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 tomorrow, and this is how it will work.
Mondays – LS Taylor will host at http://lstaylor.blogspot.com
Tuesdays – Shari Green will host at http://www.sharigreen.com
Wednesdays – Angelina Hansen will host at http://yascribe.blogspot.com
Thursdays – Mary Ann Scott will host at http://thebrokentree.blogspot.com
Fridays – Denise Jaden will host at http://denisejaden.blogspot.com
Saturdays – Kim Baccelia will host at http://kimbacceliasweblogfantasy.blogspot.com
Sundays – Kelsey Macke will host at http://www.kelseyiswriting.blogspot.com
The prizes ! We have some truly awesome prizes up for grabs this year! We will 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!):
First Chapter Critique (Courtesy of Kelsey Macke - International)
First Chapter Critique (Courtesy of L.S. Taylor - International)
Bookish Jewelry (Courtesy of Mary Ann Scott - US mailing only)
Writer's Emergency Kit (A surprise pack of writerly goodness! - Courtesy of Shari Green - International)
IF I TELL by Janet Gurtler (Courtesy of Angelina Hansen - US mailing only)
DARKBEAST by Morgan Keyes (Courtesy of L.S. Taylor - US/Canada mailing only)
Books courtesy of Kim Baccelia (US mailing only):
TEAM HUMAN by Justine Larbalestier and Sarah Rees Brennan
NECROMANCING THE STONE by Lish McBride
TIME BETWEEN US by Tamara Ireland Stone
FATHOMLESS by Jackson Pearce
SHADOWS ON THE MOON by Zoe Marriott
CITY OF LOST SOULS by Cassandra Clare
THRONE OF GLASS by Sarah J. Maas
SPARK/STORM by Brigid Kammerer
INSIGNIA by S.J. Kincaid
OUTPOST by Ann Agguire
Books courtesy of Denise Jaden (US mailing only):
HOW I LOST YOU (SIGNED ARC!) by Janet Gurtler
SEVER (ARC) by Lauren DeStefano
RUSH (ARC) by Eve Silver
YOU KNOW WHAT YOU HAVE TO DO (ARC) by Bonnie Shimko
IN TOO DEEP (ARC) by Coert Voorhees
BROTHER, BROTHER (ARC) by Clay Carmichael
RIPTIDE (ARC) by Lindsey Scheibe
ALSO KNOWN AS... (ARC) by Robin Benway
LOVE IN THE TIME OF GLOBAL WARMING (ARC) by Francesca Lia Block
FOREVERMORE (ARC) by Cindy Miles
Isn’t that quite the ARSENAL of prizes?! Wow, thank you all!!
AND…thank also to Kelsey Macke, we have a fabulous badge for this year’s event. It’s on the sidebar and also below, so go ahead and post it somewhere proudly and link it back to this post.
I'm going to be perfectly honest about what happened with me during last March Madness. I re-wrote (from scratch) my WIP novel, FINDING HOPE. Yes, the entire thing. It was planned to be a companion novel to LOSING FAITH, but by about the third week in, I hated it--couldn't stand the plot or the characters or anything about it. I took a few deep breaths, talked to a few really wonderfully motivating writer-friends (thanks, #wipmadness!) and decided to push through. I forced myself to write the book until it at least had an ending. Then I told myself I could put it away and never look at the stupid thing again.
I'm telling you this so that if you get stuck, or if you find yourself waking up one day and despising this goal project you started...you're not alone. Definitely not.
There is a happy ending to this story, however! It took me eleven months, but I decided to go back and read FINDING HOPE last month, just to see how horrible it was. It turned out...I loved it! It needed lots of work still, of course, but I could see with such clear eyes how to fix it and move forward and actually make this book into something someone may one day want to read!
As for this year's goal, just out of pure craziness, I'm starting another companion novel, which will tell a secondary character's story from FINDING HOPE. I don't have much of an outline for it, but I plan to push through and finish a first draft by the end of March.
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 Kim Baccelia's Blog tomorrow for your first check-in! Remember, the more you check-in and encourage others, the better chance you have of winning some great 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 tomorrow, 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 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. We plan to have check-in posts up and running by 9AM PST (noon EST) each day.
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!
Mondays – LS Taylor will host at http://lstaylor.blogspot.com
Tuesdays – Shari Green will host at http://www.sharigreen.com
Wednesdays – Angelina Hansen will host at http://yascribe.blogspot.com
Thursdays – Mary Ann Scott will host at http://thebrokentree.blogspot.com
Fridays – Denise Jaden will host at http://denisejaden.blogspot.com
Saturdays – Kim Baccelia will host at http://kimbacceliasweblogfantasy.blogspot.com
Sundays – Kelsey Macke will host at http://www.kelseyiswriting.blogspot.com
The prizes ! We have some truly awesome prizes up for grabs this year! We will 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!):
First Five Pages Critique (Courtesy of Angelina Hansen - International)
First Five Pages OR Query Critique (Courtesy of Denise Jaden International)Query Critique (Courtesy of Kelsey Macke - International)
First Chapter Critique (Courtesy of Kelsey Macke - International)
First Chapter Critique (Courtesy of L.S. Taylor - International)
Bookish Jewelry (Courtesy of Mary Ann Scott - US mailing only)
Writer's Emergency Kit (A surprise pack of writerly goodness! - Courtesy of Shari Green - International)
IF I TELL by Janet Gurtler (Courtesy of Angelina Hansen - US mailing only)
DARKBEAST by Morgan Keyes (Courtesy of L.S. Taylor - US/Canada mailing only)
Books courtesy of Kim Baccelia (US mailing only):
TEAM HUMAN by Justine Larbalestier and Sarah Rees Brennan
NECROMANCING THE STONE by Lish McBride
TIME BETWEEN US by Tamara Ireland Stone
FATHOMLESS by Jackson Pearce
SHADOWS ON THE MOON by Zoe Marriott
CITY OF LOST SOULS by Cassandra Clare
THRONE OF GLASS by Sarah J. Maas
SPARK/STORM by Brigid Kammerer
INSIGNIA by S.J. Kincaid
OUTPOST by Ann Agguire
Books courtesy of Denise Jaden (US mailing only):
HOW I LOST YOU (SIGNED ARC!) by Janet Gurtler
SEVER (ARC) by Lauren DeStefano
RUSH (ARC) by Eve Silver
YOU KNOW WHAT YOU HAVE TO DO (ARC) by Bonnie Shimko
IN TOO DEEP (ARC) by Coert Voorhees
BROTHER, BROTHER (ARC) by Clay Carmichael
RIPTIDE (ARC) by Lindsey Scheibe
ALSO KNOWN AS... (ARC) by Robin Benway
LOVE IN THE TIME OF GLOBAL WARMING (ARC) by Francesca Lia Block
FOREVERMORE (ARC) by Cindy Miles
Isn’t that quite the ARSENAL of prizes?! Wow, thank you all!!
AND…thank also to Kelsey Macke, we have a fabulous badge for this year’s event. It’s on the sidebar and also below, so go ahead and post it somewhere proudly and link it back to this post.
I'm going to be perfectly honest about what happened with me during last March Madness. I re-wrote (from scratch) my WIP novel, FINDING HOPE. Yes, the entire thing. It was planned to be a companion novel to LOSING FAITH, but by about the third week in, I hated it--couldn't stand the plot or the characters or anything about it. I took a few deep breaths, talked to a few really wonderfully motivating writer-friends (thanks, #wipmadness!) and decided to push through. I forced myself to write the book until it at least had an ending. Then I told myself I could put it away and never look at the stupid thing again.
I'm telling you this so that if you get stuck, or if you find yourself waking up one day and despising this goal project you started...you're not alone. Definitely not.
There is a happy ending to this story, however! It took me eleven months, but I decided to go back and read FINDING HOPE last month, just to see how horrible it was. It turned out...I loved it! It needed lots of work still, of course, but I could see with such clear eyes how to fix it and move forward and actually make this book into something someone may one day want to read!
As for this year's goal, just out of pure craziness, I'm starting another companion novel, which will tell a secondary character's story from FINDING HOPE. I don't have much of an outline for it, but I plan to push through and finish a first draft by the end of March.
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 Kim Baccelia's Blog tomorrow for your first check-in! Remember, the more you check-in and encourage others, the better chance you have of winning some great 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 25, 2013
March Madness Writing, Reading, and Blogging Challenge! #WIPMadness
It’s almost March and time for an Almost-Nano Challenge! If you have a writing project you’re ready to start, or a work in progress you’re ready to finish, come and join the fun. Accountability is our main aim and the more support we have, the easier it will be to sail on through the month of March, bouncing along on each others successes!
And, like last year, we're opening up March Madness to readers who want to challenge themselves to read more, bloggers who want to challenge themselves to blog more, and illustrators who want to challenge themselves to illustrate more! Basically, anything to do with books!
And did I mention there will be PRIZES? Prizes will not be awarded based on how much you write, read, draw, or blog, but simply on how involved you are in the Big Accountability Plan. There will be check-in points every day through the month of March. Each time you check in and record your progress, your name will be entered into a draw for some great prizes, including some high demand books and even critiques! And not only that, but the more you encourage others along the way (in the comments), the more times your name will go into the hat!
Spread the word, and check out http://denisejaden.blogspot.com Friday, March 1st, to put your goals officially in writing and find out the locations of the check-in points. If you’re ready to get serious, don’t do it alone…Get serious with us!
Now is the time to be setting your Ambitious Goals for the month of March! (Trust me, you will be able to accomplish much more than normal with the added camaraderie and support, so don't be afraid to set the bar a little higher.) If you haven't already, start meeting up with us on Twitter under the hashtag #WIPMadness .
As writers, we can tend to think that other writers have an easier time than us. We see people breaking ridiculously high word-count goals, or selling books they seem to have just started writing. But I want to share a little secret: It's hard for all of us. It really is. And I'm going to tell you a little more about my personal experience with that on March 1st.
Please spread the word about this Challenge. There will be lots to win throughout the month and the more support we have, the better all of our goals will go this month! Let me just show you a little peek at some of the books I'll be letting you choose from (don't worry if you can't see. I'll have them listed on the 1st), but believe me there will be many more prizes yet to come!
So check back in here March 1st. If you're such a proud participant that you want to let everyone know, grab the March Madness badge from the sidebar (Thanks to Kelsey Macke for that!) and put it somewhere prominent.
Everyone is welcome and the more the merrier! Let's march into March like the mad group of writers we are!!!
And, like last year, we're opening up March Madness to readers who want to challenge themselves to read more, bloggers who want to challenge themselves to blog more, and illustrators who want to challenge themselves to illustrate more! Basically, anything to do with books!
And did I mention there will be PRIZES? Prizes will not be awarded based on how much you write, read, draw, or blog, but simply on how involved you are in the Big Accountability Plan. There will be check-in points every day through the month of March. Each time you check in and record your progress, your name will be entered into a draw for some great prizes, including some high demand books and even critiques! And not only that, but the more you encourage others along the way (in the comments), the more times your name will go into the hat!
Spread the word, and check out http://denisejaden.blogspot.com Friday, March 1st, to put your goals officially in writing and find out the locations of the check-in points. If you’re ready to get serious, don’t do it alone…Get serious with us!
Now is the time to be setting your Ambitious Goals for the month of March! (Trust me, you will be able to accomplish much more than normal with the added camaraderie and support, so don't be afraid to set the bar a little higher.) If you haven't already, start meeting up with us on Twitter under the hashtag #WIPMadness .
As writers, we can tend to think that other writers have an easier time than us. We see people breaking ridiculously high word-count goals, or selling books they seem to have just started writing. But I want to share a little secret: It's hard for all of us. It really is. And I'm going to tell you a little more about my personal experience with that on March 1st.
Please spread the word about this Challenge. There will be lots to win throughout the month and the more support we have, the better all of our goals will go this month! Let me just show you a little peek at some of the books I'll be letting you choose from (don't worry if you can't see. I'll have them listed on the 1st), but believe me there will be many more prizes yet to come!
So check back in here March 1st. If you're such a proud participant that you want to let everyone know, grab the March Madness badge from the sidebar (Thanks to Kelsey Macke for that!) and put it somewhere prominent.
Everyone is welcome and the more the merrier! Let's march into March like the mad group of writers we are!!!
February 24, 2013
Random Acts of Kindness Winner!
Congratulations to Brittany Utley --the winner from my recent Random Acts of Kindness blog hop! Brittany will have lots of new books to enjoy! If you're a writer, reader, blogger, or illustrator, make sure to check back this Friday, as I'll be launching into MARCH MADNESS, which will include a whole slew of great prizes throughout the month of March. Congrats again, Brittany!
February 16, 2013
Random Acts of Kindness Blog Hop!
When I saw the title of this blog hop, I knew I had to be a part of it. I love random acts of kindness, or any acts of kindness, really. They renew my faith in humanity.
My first thought, as I considered this hop, is what I could do as a kindness to others. I thought of writers first, because that's what I do, and I wondered, "What is the one thing I would want as a writer?" More people to buy my books, of course. But, don't worry, I don't expect you all to go out and buy books as part of this hop!
My next thought was about reviews. Many people probably don't know the value of reviews. The more reviews a book has, the more visible it will be and the more it will come up on searches online. I try to leave short reviews on Amazon or B&N or GoodReads for books I really love, and I will be doing a little extra of that sort of thing this week, but then I had an idea: What if I had all of YOU help me spread this kindness to authors?
So to enter this contest, you can give me up to three links of places you've left reviews (they can all be on Amazon for different books, or you can leave one for the same book in three different places--it's up to you!) ALL REVIEWS MUST BE NEW ONES, POSTED DURING THE DURATION OF THIS CONTEST. Even if you've written stockpiles of reviews, I'll bet you can find three books that you haven't taken time to write a quick review for yet. You'll get an entry for each.
As my act of kindness to you (besides the prizes below), I'll give you one free entry just for stopping by.
You may wonder why you should bother with all this reviewing. Well, if I haven't sold you on the ACTS OF KINDNESS reason, let me sell you on this: I'll be offering this box of books to one lucky winner:
In case you can't make them out from the picture, here is what is included in the box:
A sneak preview of SOME QUIET PLACE by Kelsey SuttonAn ARC of THE SUMMER PRINCE by Alaya Dawn JohnsonAn ARC of AVENGER by Heather BurchAn ARC of YOU KNOW WHAT YOU HAVE TO DO by Bonnie ShimkoAn ARC of PERMANENT RECORD by Leslie StellaAn ARC of THE 5TH WAVE by Rick YanceyAn ARC of THE SWEET REVENGE OF CELIA DOOR by Karen FinneyfrockA finished copy of SHADOW GIRL by Patricia MorrisonA SIGNED ARC of BRUISED by Sarah SkiltonAn ARC of SKETCHY by Olivia SammsAn ARC of SHADOW LANDS by Kate BrianAn ARC of THE WHOLE STUPID WAY WE ARE by N. GriffinAn ARC of PIECES by Chris LynchA finished copy of ARTICLE 5 by Kristen Simmons
And...I"m throwing in a signed copy of LOSING FAITH, my debut novel.
You have to admit, that's quite a haul! Due to mailing costs, I can only mail out to a U.S. address (crossing my fingers that one day Canada will have media mail). Your reviews do not have to be full of flowery words and descriptions, or even long. Just say a little something nice about the books you love, and you will be entered! (And, no, they do not have to be my books, but I will give you extra cyber hugs and thank you's if they are). This hop will run from as soon as it is live until February 24th.
Spreading the word about this contest will not earn you extra entries, but it is still a nice thing to do. :-)
I commission you...go forth and show some kindness to your favorite authors...
a Rafflecopter giveaway
My first thought, as I considered this hop, is what I could do as a kindness to others. I thought of writers first, because that's what I do, and I wondered, "What is the one thing I would want as a writer?" More people to buy my books, of course. But, don't worry, I don't expect you all to go out and buy books as part of this hop!
My next thought was about reviews. Many people probably don't know the value of reviews. The more reviews a book has, the more visible it will be and the more it will come up on searches online. I try to leave short reviews on Amazon or B&N or GoodReads for books I really love, and I will be doing a little extra of that sort of thing this week, but then I had an idea: What if I had all of YOU help me spread this kindness to authors?
So to enter this contest, you can give me up to three links of places you've left reviews (they can all be on Amazon for different books, or you can leave one for the same book in three different places--it's up to you!) ALL REVIEWS MUST BE NEW ONES, POSTED DURING THE DURATION OF THIS CONTEST. Even if you've written stockpiles of reviews, I'll bet you can find three books that you haven't taken time to write a quick review for yet. You'll get an entry for each.
As my act of kindness to you (besides the prizes below), I'll give you one free entry just for stopping by.
You may wonder why you should bother with all this reviewing. Well, if I haven't sold you on the ACTS OF KINDNESS reason, let me sell you on this: I'll be offering this box of books to one lucky winner:
In case you can't make them out from the picture, here is what is included in the box:
A sneak preview of SOME QUIET PLACE by Kelsey SuttonAn ARC of THE SUMMER PRINCE by Alaya Dawn JohnsonAn ARC of AVENGER by Heather BurchAn ARC of YOU KNOW WHAT YOU HAVE TO DO by Bonnie ShimkoAn ARC of PERMANENT RECORD by Leslie StellaAn ARC of THE 5TH WAVE by Rick YanceyAn ARC of THE SWEET REVENGE OF CELIA DOOR by Karen FinneyfrockA finished copy of SHADOW GIRL by Patricia MorrisonA SIGNED ARC of BRUISED by Sarah SkiltonAn ARC of SKETCHY by Olivia SammsAn ARC of SHADOW LANDS by Kate BrianAn ARC of THE WHOLE STUPID WAY WE ARE by N. GriffinAn ARC of PIECES by Chris LynchA finished copy of ARTICLE 5 by Kristen Simmons
And...I"m throwing in a signed copy of LOSING FAITH, my debut novel.
You have to admit, that's quite a haul! Due to mailing costs, I can only mail out to a U.S. address (crossing my fingers that one day Canada will have media mail). Your reviews do not have to be full of flowery words and descriptions, or even long. Just say a little something nice about the books you love, and you will be entered! (And, no, they do not have to be my books, but I will give you extra cyber hugs and thank you's if they are). This hop will run from as soon as it is live until February 24th.
Spreading the word about this contest will not earn you extra entries, but it is still a nice thing to do. :-)
I commission you...go forth and show some kindness to your favorite authors...
a Rafflecopter giveaway
February 15, 2013
Friday Five!
1. There are so many things I'm excited about right now. First, I'm putting together a contest and giving away an entire BOX of ARCs from ALA. It will be up later this weekend, in honor of Random Acts of Kindness day, and so you will have to perform some specific acts of kindness to enter. Stay tuned!
2. The audiobook for LOSING FAITH is in production! I didn't want to say anything until it was confirmed, but it is, and so now I can blab it from the rooftops! There will be an audiobook for LOSING FAITH (and hopefully NEVER ENOUGH - more on that coming). The best thing about this is the narrator, and I can't tell you who it is yet, but let's just say I'm super-excited about it. I've always wanted to have at least one of my books in audio, as I am a huge lover of audiobooks, so I'm thrilled that this is finally happening.
3. My awesome mother is taking me on a cruise! I'm terribly excited about this, as I haven't had a relaxing vacation in a long long while. Plus, I am so very ready for a piece of the sun. I've been dieting and working out strenuously to try to fit into some of my summer clothes before I go, so I'm a little bit grumpy these days, but still, terribly terribly excited!
4. Have you read CATCHING JORDAN by Miranda Kineally? If not, I highly recommend this book and I'm not even finished reading it. It's living in my gym bag right now and it is honestly my number one motivation for getting to the gym these days. Read it. You'll love it.
5. March Madness! It's just around the corner and it's going to be AWESOME this year. If you don't know what it's about, you can check my blog for last March's posts - basically a lot of cameraderie and prizes for sticking to our writing goals throughout March. I encourage you to start thinking about your goals for March now. They should be ambitious goals, more ambitious than you make for the rest of the year (except perhaps if you participate in NaNo). They can be anything, though, and we will hold you accountable. There are some really amazing prizes to be won as well--critiques and books and ARCs. You'll want to be here, trust me. And if you're up for it, display the little badge below on your blog or wherever. Tell people you are a proud participant in March Madness and help us spread the word.
Thanks for helping spread the word, and don't forget to check back here on Sunday or Monday for my HUGE contest! Happy weekend, everyone!
2. The audiobook for LOSING FAITH is in production! I didn't want to say anything until it was confirmed, but it is, and so now I can blab it from the rooftops! There will be an audiobook for LOSING FAITH (and hopefully NEVER ENOUGH - more on that coming). The best thing about this is the narrator, and I can't tell you who it is yet, but let's just say I'm super-excited about it. I've always wanted to have at least one of my books in audio, as I am a huge lover of audiobooks, so I'm thrilled that this is finally happening.
3. My awesome mother is taking me on a cruise! I'm terribly excited about this, as I haven't had a relaxing vacation in a long long while. Plus, I am so very ready for a piece of the sun. I've been dieting and working out strenuously to try to fit into some of my summer clothes before I go, so I'm a little bit grumpy these days, but still, terribly terribly excited!
4. Have you read CATCHING JORDAN by Miranda Kineally? If not, I highly recommend this book and I'm not even finished reading it. It's living in my gym bag right now and it is honestly my number one motivation for getting to the gym these days. Read it. You'll love it.
5. March Madness! It's just around the corner and it's going to be AWESOME this year. If you don't know what it's about, you can check my blog for last March's posts - basically a lot of cameraderie and prizes for sticking to our writing goals throughout March. I encourage you to start thinking about your goals for March now. They should be ambitious goals, more ambitious than you make for the rest of the year (except perhaps if you participate in NaNo). They can be anything, though, and we will hold you accountable. There are some really amazing prizes to be won as well--critiques and books and ARCs. You'll want to be here, trust me. And if you're up for it, display the little badge below on your blog or wherever. Tell people you are a proud participant in March Madness and help us spread the word.
Thanks for helping spread the word, and don't forget to check back here on Sunday or Monday for my HUGE contest! Happy weekend, everyone!
February 8, 2013
#Free For #Writers
Hey, Writer Friends!
I have a 3-day promotion going on for my book WRITING WITH A HEAVY HEART: USING GRIEF AND LOSS TO STRETCH YOUR FICTION.
It's absolutely and totally FREE! I'm doing this to help spread the word about this book, and my writing, and to garner reviews. For those of you who are not aware, the more reviews a book has, the more visible it will be in searches.
So if you're interested, please download your free copy here. I would offer you my undying gratitude and multiple cyber-hugs if you would post a review once you've read it, or if you spread the word about this promotion.
Here is a little more about the book...
http://www.amazon.com/Writing-With-Heavy-Heart-ebook/dp/B009DRLA32
In her first non-fiction book, Denise Jaden explores the stages and outlets of grief and how to implement them into your fiction to create more interesting characters and a more engaging plot. Some topics of this book include: grieving before the loss, spiritual matters, and how grief affects different ages, personality types, and genders. Find out how to implement heavy emotional scenes authentically, without crossing over into melodrama. Learn which authors have done this well, and how they did it.
Denise Jaden's first two YA novels are infused with grieving and loss, and she'll explain some of the revision process of getting to the depth of her stories.
Here is some of what others are saying about Writing With a Heavy Heart...
I have a 3-day promotion going on for my book WRITING WITH A HEAVY HEART: USING GRIEF AND LOSS TO STRETCH YOUR FICTION.
It's absolutely and totally FREE! I'm doing this to help spread the word about this book, and my writing, and to garner reviews. For those of you who are not aware, the more reviews a book has, the more visible it will be in searches.
So if you're interested, please download your free copy here. I would offer you my undying gratitude and multiple cyber-hugs if you would post a review once you've read it, or if you spread the word about this promotion.
Here is a little more about the book...
http://www.amazon.com/Writing-With-Heavy-Heart-ebook/dp/B009DRLA32 In her first non-fiction book, Denise Jaden explores the stages and outlets of grief and how to implement them into your fiction to create more interesting characters and a more engaging plot. Some topics of this book include: grieving before the loss, spiritual matters, and how grief affects different ages, personality types, and genders. Find out how to implement heavy emotional scenes authentically, without crossing over into melodrama. Learn which authors have done this well, and how they did it.
Denise Jaden's first two YA novels are infused with grieving and loss, and she'll explain some of the revision process of getting to the depth of her stories.
Here is some of what others are saying about Writing With a Heavy Heart...
"Jaden's Writing With A Heavy Heart is a must-have for any writer's craft shelf. The combination of clear guidance and practical exercises allow writers to take their manuscripts to a deeper level."
- Eileen Cook Author of Unraveling Isobel and The Almost Truth
“Writing With A Heavy Heart absolutely nails the grieving process. I love the exercises included, because, to me, they make the whole thing a tangible help in applying it to a work in progress.”
- Janet Gurtler, author of If I Tell and Who I Kissed
"Writing With A Heavy Heart has a lot of really good insights on grief and suggestions on how to incorporate them to fiction."
- Lee Strauss, author of The Perception Series
"Jaden's Writing with a Heavy Heart helped me add layers to my characters who experience loss. The tools provided in this piece make it practical in my writing projects."
- Cindy Callaghan, author of Just Add Magic and Purses, Palaces and Photographic Proof
