Nichole Giles's Blog, page 9
October 29, 2013
Let the Countdown Commence in Three, Two, One…
That’s right people. There are three days left in October. Halloween is only two days away, which means I will stock up on delicious, horribly non-nutritious snacks which I will desperately need for the month to follow.
No, I will not be trick-or-treating, and I don’t believe my children will either. Sadly, I fear we may be past that phase of life.
*sobs*
In lieu of the trick-or-treat stash, I shall be making the trek to Sam’s Club (because there is no Costco closer than three hours) to buy a giant bag of sugar-filled junk, and then I will dress up and sit on my porch to hand out half of it. The other half will be greedily and desperately stashed. I’m seriously going to need it. (Just like I needed all those adverbs!)
That’s right. The month following Halloween? November. Otherwise known as National Novel Writing Month. (At least, in America. I don’t know about my foreign friends, but hey—I think this could be a global thing. Anyone can participate!)
I have a few ideas, and two or three or six books that need to be written. So yeah. I plan to draft one of them in November. Please bear with me if I neglect this blog (though it’s not currently in the plans) and definitely stop by on November 6th to enter in a massive, super fun contest to celebrate the release of the second edition of DESCENDANT, which also includes BONUS material.
This means that a whole LOT Of writers and authors will be signing out of social networking and neglecting blogs, housework, family, and holiday decorating in order to write entire novels in thirty days or less. Me included.
If you’re participating, friend me on the NaNoWriMo site. If not, enjoy your relaxing, craze-free November. It’s good to know the rest of the world still functions while we create worlds and then blow them asunder.
Let the countdown commence…
No, I will not be trick-or-treating, and I don’t believe my children will either. Sadly, I fear we may be past that phase of life.
*sobs*
In lieu of the trick-or-treat stash, I shall be making the trek to Sam’s Club (because there is no Costco closer than three hours) to buy a giant bag of sugar-filled junk, and then I will dress up and sit on my porch to hand out half of it. The other half will be greedily and desperately stashed. I’m seriously going to need it. (Just like I needed all those adverbs!)
That’s right. The month following Halloween? November. Otherwise known as National Novel Writing Month. (At least, in America. I don’t know about my foreign friends, but hey—I think this could be a global thing. Anyone can participate!)
I have a few ideas, and two or three or six books that need to be written. So yeah. I plan to draft one of them in November. Please bear with me if I neglect this blog (though it’s not currently in the plans) and definitely stop by on November 6th to enter in a massive, super fun contest to celebrate the release of the second edition of DESCENDANT, which also includes BONUS material.
This means that a whole LOT Of writers and authors will be signing out of social networking and neglecting blogs, housework, family, and holiday decorating in order to write entire novels in thirty days or less. Me included.
If you’re participating, friend me on the NaNoWriMo site. If not, enjoy your relaxing, craze-free November. It’s good to know the rest of the world still functions while we create worlds and then blow them asunder.
Let the countdown commence…
October 22, 2013
Totally Random Thoughts (October 2013 Edition)
Fear happens when we have something to lose. So how brave would we be if we believed—even for just one day—that we would win?
Trust is a gift of faith that is, more often than not, destroyed by imagination and insecurity, rather than reality.
A hero is someone who you know will always show up for you, even when they can’t necessarily save you or your world.
The most popular TV shows, movies, and books elicit strong emotions from people watching/reading. It is those strong emotions, along with strong questions, that keep us those characters in our heads, feeding our need to continue returning to watch the next episode, sequel, or volume. Or, barring that, it feeds our desire to continue watching or reading things by those same creators.
Sometimes a walk on the beach or a drive to nowhere is the best way to see the best parts of the world.
Any thoughts you’d like to add?
Trust is a gift of faith that is, more often than not, destroyed by imagination and insecurity, rather than reality.
A hero is someone who you know will always show up for you, even when they can’t necessarily save you or your world.
The most popular TV shows, movies, and books elicit strong emotions from people watching/reading. It is those strong emotions, along with strong questions, that keep us those characters in our heads, feeding our need to continue returning to watch the next episode, sequel, or volume. Or, barring that, it feeds our desire to continue watching or reading things by those same creators.
Sometimes a walk on the beach or a drive to nowhere is the best way to see the best parts of the world.
Any thoughts you’d like to add?
October 15, 2013
The Fine Art of Talking About Nothing
I’ve been thinking this week about small talk, and how many of us spend so much time trying to make it. And I’ve realized something. It’s hard. Trying to have a conversation with someone you don’t know, or who you only know a little, or with whom you have little or nothing in common can be stressful for the most talkative of people.
Most of us kind of suck at it. (I’m one of those people.) In fact, I dare say some of us struggle to converse with people we see every day, or whom we’ve known our whole lives. Sad reality.
But every so often, I come across someone who has perfected the art of talking about nothing. And by nothing, I also mean everything. These are the people who you’ve never met before, or who are maybe only acquaintances or whatever, but no matter when you see them, they always have something to say and—miracle of miracles—what they’re saying is not only interesting, but inspires an intelligent/witty/smart-aleck response from you.
These are the people who seem to be friends with everyone because EVERYONE has had a conversation with them. And not just a conversation, a satisfying conversation, wherein both parties were present and both spoke and responded.
Everyone needs people in our lives to whom we can talk about nothing in particular and know that we are heard. To have those people actually respond and reply and give input. I have a few of these friends, and I treasure them daily for the very vitality and brightness they bring to me. I'm recognizing more and more how very important these seemingly meaningless conversations can be, because nothing is meaningless when it makes someone feel valued.
It’s an art form, really. And one I think I need to study. What kinds of qualities should a talented talk-artist have? (Seriously, I’d like answers to this if you have some!)
Most of us kind of suck at it. (I’m one of those people.) In fact, I dare say some of us struggle to converse with people we see every day, or whom we’ve known our whole lives. Sad reality.
But every so often, I come across someone who has perfected the art of talking about nothing. And by nothing, I also mean everything. These are the people who you’ve never met before, or who are maybe only acquaintances or whatever, but no matter when you see them, they always have something to say and—miracle of miracles—what they’re saying is not only interesting, but inspires an intelligent/witty/smart-aleck response from you.
These are the people who seem to be friends with everyone because EVERYONE has had a conversation with them. And not just a conversation, a satisfying conversation, wherein both parties were present and both spoke and responded.
Everyone needs people in our lives to whom we can talk about nothing in particular and know that we are heard. To have those people actually respond and reply and give input. I have a few of these friends, and I treasure them daily for the very vitality and brightness they bring to me. I'm recognizing more and more how very important these seemingly meaningless conversations can be, because nothing is meaningless when it makes someone feel valued.
It’s an art form, really. And one I think I need to study. What kinds of qualities should a talented talk-artist have? (Seriously, I’d like answers to this if you have some!)
October 8, 2013
Update on the Descendant Series
Okay, so it’s been about a month since I found out my publisher is closing. In that time, the date has been moved back from January to October. The specific date will depend on each of the authors and whatever they’re planning to do when our rights revert back to us.
Because DESCENDANT was already released, and because the timeline has become so short, looking for a new publisher would mean allowing DESCENDANT to drop off the market for a while. And since it’s still very new, I hate to do that. This puts me in a position I never dreamed I’d ever be in with this particular book.
Independent publishing.
What this means for readers: Not a lot, actually. Rhemalda publishing is a very rare publisher in that they are conscious of their authors and the futures of our careers, and specifically the books belonging to us. This means that the appearance and text of the actual book will not change with one small/big exception.
Since I have to re-do a few things anyway, I’m adding BONUS MATERIAL! That’s right. The second edition of DESCENDANT will also include a sneak peek of the second book in the series, the title of which I will announce here very soon.
What this means for me: a lot of extra work, but also some unique opportunities. Like the chance to add bonus material and get people excited about book 2. I will retain all rights to the series, and my agent and I are willing to consider offers from publishers should they express interest.
Oh, and also I am planning to build my newsletter list and Facebook author page. Keep an eye on the blog here (or the newsletter, or Facebook page) for some super-fun promotions. And as always, your help in spreading the word is always, always appreciated.
Thanks for reading!
Because DESCENDANT was already released, and because the timeline has become so short, looking for a new publisher would mean allowing DESCENDANT to drop off the market for a while. And since it’s still very new, I hate to do that. This puts me in a position I never dreamed I’d ever be in with this particular book.
Independent publishing.
What this means for readers: Not a lot, actually. Rhemalda publishing is a very rare publisher in that they are conscious of their authors and the futures of our careers, and specifically the books belonging to us. This means that the appearance and text of the actual book will not change with one small/big exception.
Since I have to re-do a few things anyway, I’m adding BONUS MATERIAL! That’s right. The second edition of DESCENDANT will also include a sneak peek of the second book in the series, the title of which I will announce here very soon.
What this means for me: a lot of extra work, but also some unique opportunities. Like the chance to add bonus material and get people excited about book 2. I will retain all rights to the series, and my agent and I are willing to consider offers from publishers should they express interest.
Oh, and also I am planning to build my newsletter list and Facebook author page. Keep an eye on the blog here (or the newsletter, or Facebook page) for some super-fun promotions. And as always, your help in spreading the word is always, always appreciated.
Thanks for reading!
October 7, 2013
Cover Reveal: Breakable By Aimee L. Salter
Today I'm happy to be assisting my agency sister Aimee L. Salter with the cover reveal for her upcoming book, Breakable. I love this cover, and I love the premise, and I think this sounds like a fabulous book.
Keep an eye on this one, kids. It will be available November 4th, just in time for your holiday book buying pleasure.
BLURB – Breakable
When seventeen-year-old Stacy looks in the mirror she can see and talk to her future self. “Older Me” has been Stacy's secret support through the ongoing battle with their neurotic mother, relentless bullying at school, and dealing with her hopeless love for her best friend, Mark.
Then Stacy discovers Older Me is a liar.
Still reeling from that betrayal, Stacy buries herself in her art. But even that is taken from her when her most persistent tormentor uses her own work to humiliate her - and threaten her last chance with Mark.
Stacy’s reached breaking point.
Literally.
About the author:
Aimee L. Salter is a Pacific North-Westerner who spent much of her young (and not-so-young) life in New Zealand. After picking up a Kiwi husband and son, she’s recently returned to Oregon. She writes novels for teens and the occasional adult who, like herself, are still in touch with their inner-high schooler.
Aimee is the author behind Seeking the Write Life, a popular blog for writers at www.aimeelsalter.com. You can also find her on Twitter (www.twitter.com/@AimeeLSalter) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/AimeeLSalter).
Aimee’s debut novel, Breakable, releases November 4th for Kindle, Nook and in paperback. You can add Breakable to your to-read list on Goodreads at http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18377058-breakable
General Information - BREAKABLE
Breakable is a YA, Magical Realism (reads like a contemporary, but with one fantastic element). The premise was inspired by a visit to the website www.dearteenme.com in which authors write letters to their teen selves.
Breakable will release for general sale on November 4th on Amazon (Kindle and paperback) and B & N (for Nook).
This is the author’s first book.
Keep an eye on this one, kids. It will be available November 4th, just in time for your holiday book buying pleasure.
BLURB – Breakable
When seventeen-year-old Stacy looks in the mirror she can see and talk to her future self. “Older Me” has been Stacy's secret support through the ongoing battle with their neurotic mother, relentless bullying at school, and dealing with her hopeless love for her best friend, Mark.
Then Stacy discovers Older Me is a liar.
Still reeling from that betrayal, Stacy buries herself in her art. But even that is taken from her when her most persistent tormentor uses her own work to humiliate her - and threaten her last chance with Mark.
Stacy’s reached breaking point.
Literally.
About the author:
Aimee L. Salter is a Pacific North-Westerner who spent much of her young (and not-so-young) life in New Zealand. After picking up a Kiwi husband and son, she’s recently returned to Oregon. She writes novels for teens and the occasional adult who, like herself, are still in touch with their inner-high schooler.
Aimee is the author behind Seeking the Write Life, a popular blog for writers at www.aimeelsalter.com. You can also find her on Twitter (www.twitter.com/@AimeeLSalter) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/AimeeLSalter).
Aimee’s debut novel, Breakable, releases November 4th for Kindle, Nook and in paperback. You can add Breakable to your to-read list on Goodreads at http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18377058-breakable
General Information - BREAKABLE
Breakable is a YA, Magical Realism (reads like a contemporary, but with one fantastic element). The premise was inspired by a visit to the website www.dearteenme.com in which authors write letters to their teen selves.
Breakable will release for general sale on November 4th on Amazon (Kindle and paperback) and B & N (for Nook).
This is the author’s first book.
October 1, 2013
Making a Memorable Impression
In the time since I decided to seriously go into writing as a career, I’ve been to a lot of conferences and conventions. And since the writing world is relatively small, I’ve noticed I tend to run into some of the same people again and again. They’re the serious ones—or the devoted ones. Or maybe just the crazy ones. I can’t decide. Whichever it is, I’m one of them.
A lot of those people remember me. And I remember them. I take the time to learn their names (though it’s definitely not a strength of mine) and something about them that will stick in my memory.
At a recent conference, I had the opportunity to run into a few people who I have only met once or twice before. These people remembered not only my name, but that I used to live in Utah, that I write, and that I recently had a book published. And I remembered each of them, for a number of reasons.
Someone recently asked me how that works. My first instinct was to blush and say, I don’t know, it just does. But then I dug a little deeper into human nature, and I realized something. I am best at remembering those people who treat me with respect. But even more, I am BEST at remembering people who are kind. Who smile when we’re talking, and say gracious things. People who can have a conversation about nothing, and remember details. I remember people because of how they make me feel each time we meet.
I think maybe it works that way on both sides. I put a lot of effort into being kind. To everyone, regardless of who they are, what they do for a living, or where they live in the world. I try to be inclusive rather than exclusive. I try to embrace people for their individuality. I may not always succeed, but I definitely try.
I don’t know if that makes me memorable or not. But that is the number one reason I will remember someone else. Thus, my circle grows.
Granted, not everyone will always remember us. There are also people I've met a number of times who have yet to pay well enough attention to remember me. And that's okay. I guess I'll just have to keep being nice, keep being me, and one of these days, they will.
What do you think? How do people make a memorable impression on you?
A lot of those people remember me. And I remember them. I take the time to learn their names (though it’s definitely not a strength of mine) and something about them that will stick in my memory.
At a recent conference, I had the opportunity to run into a few people who I have only met once or twice before. These people remembered not only my name, but that I used to live in Utah, that I write, and that I recently had a book published. And I remembered each of them, for a number of reasons.
Someone recently asked me how that works. My first instinct was to blush and say, I don’t know, it just does. But then I dug a little deeper into human nature, and I realized something. I am best at remembering those people who treat me with respect. But even more, I am BEST at remembering people who are kind. Who smile when we’re talking, and say gracious things. People who can have a conversation about nothing, and remember details. I remember people because of how they make me feel each time we meet.
I think maybe it works that way on both sides. I put a lot of effort into being kind. To everyone, regardless of who they are, what they do for a living, or where they live in the world. I try to be inclusive rather than exclusive. I try to embrace people for their individuality. I may not always succeed, but I definitely try.
I don’t know if that makes me memorable or not. But that is the number one reason I will remember someone else. Thus, my circle grows.
Granted, not everyone will always remember us. There are also people I've met a number of times who have yet to pay well enough attention to remember me. And that's okay. I guess I'll just have to keep being nice, keep being me, and one of these days, they will.
What do you think? How do people make a memorable impression on you?
September 24, 2013
Fiction Writers are only Telling the Truth by Christy Dorrity (And a Contest!)
I don't often host guest posts, so when I do, you know I'm excited about the author or artist and their work. Ladies and Gents, please welcome author Christy Dorrity to my blog! (And stick around to the end, because everyone who comments will be entered to win a free copy of Christy's new book, Awakening!)
From Christy:
People ask authors all the time, where do you get your ideas? The answer is from everywhere. A spark of a new idea comes from something their three-year-old says while playing, from other books and movies, and sometimes from dreams.
For me, one of the most fertile grounds for creating fantastic worlds and far-off lands comes from what is already here. Have you ever seen an octopus that can change color and texture to blend into his surroundings? Did you know that there are people who truly believe that faery folk exist? Have you ever really thought about the fact that giant lizards used to rule the earth? Did you know that technology has produced a 3-D printer that prints ears, livers, and kidneys with living tissue?
The world around is so fascinating, that I don’t have to go far for ideas.
World mythology is one of those sources of potential for world-building and plot ideas. When I began researching Celtic mythology for AWAKENING, I was amazed at the rich culture and limitless idea-hatching possibilities. Mythology is filled with Hags who pronounce curses, men who turn into beasts in battle, and star-crossed lovers who are destined for heartache. You can’t ask for better material.
Take Cliona, the banshee in my book. When I did research on the legends surrounding banshees, I found very little. She is in spirit form, and often attaches to a certain family, warning them with her wail that a death is about to occur. Travelers are warned not to pick up a lost comb; the banshee who often combs her hair by a stream may have left it behind. Some have seen the banshee washing bloody clothing in the river. By some versions she is beautiful, by others, she is frightening.
In creating Cliona, I took what was already there and built on it—giving her motivations and a relatable backstory, while keeping true to original mythology. The elements are all there—the comb, the wail, the wraithlike figure, but the extrapolations are what give my story life.
The make-believe stories that come from an author’s brain are really just an extension of the fascinating facets of the world around us. It’s like Captain Hook says, “Lie? Me? Never. The truth is far too much fun.”
About the Book
. . . because some Celtic stories won’t be contained in myth.
A little magic has always run in sixteen-year-old McKayla McCleery's family—at least that’s what she’s been told. McKayla’s eccentric Aunt Avril travels the world as a psychic for the FBI, and her mother can make amazing delicacies out of the most basic of ingredients. But McKayla doesn't think for a second that the magic is real—it’s just good storytelling. Besides, McKayla doesn’t need magic. She recently moved to beautiful Star Valley, Wyoming, and already she has a best friend, a solo in her upcoming ballet recital—and the gorgeous guy in her physics class keeps looking her way.
When an unexpected fascination with Irish dance leads McKayla to seek instruction from the mute, crippled janitor at her high school, she learns that her family is not the only one with unexplained abilities. After Aunt Avril comes to Star Valley in pursuit of a supernatural killer, people begin disappearing, and the lives of those McKayla holds most dear are threatened.
When the janitor reveals that an ancient curse, known as a geis, has awakened deadly powers that defy explanation, McKayla is forced to come to terms with what is real and what is fantasy. A thrilling debut novel based in Celtic mythology, Awakening is a gripping young adult fantasy rife with magic, romance, and mystery.
Praise for Awakening
"AWAKENING is a wonder and a delight. Christy Dorrity is a talent to watch."
~David Farland, New York Times bestselling author of Nightingale
"I thoroughly enjoyed AWAKENING, a captivating and unique debut novel that creatively integrates Irish dance."
~ CHRIS NAISH, Riverdance member and Creative Director of Fusion Fighters Irish dancers.
About the AuthorChristy Dorrity lives in the mountains with her husband, five children, and a cocker spaniel. She grew up on a trout ranch in Star Valley, Wyoming, and is the author of The Geis series for young adults, and The Book Blogger’s Cookbooks. Christy is a champion Irish dancer and when she’s not reading or writing, she’s probably trying out a new recipe in the kitchen.
Purchase Awakening by Christy Dorrity:
Cool, right? And because Christy is so awesome, she has agreed to give away a free e-copy of AWAKENING to one lucky reader. Simply comment below (make sure to leave me your contact information) and be automatically entered. Winner will be notified by email.
September 20, 2013
Super Fun Book Blast: I, Spy by Jordan McCollum
To save her country and her secrets, CIA operative Talia Reynolds must sacrifice the man she loves—but your choice is much easier! Just buy a copy of I, Spy during the book blast AND receive awesome prizes!
Amazon, Kobo, Barnes & Noble & Smashwords, and direct from JordanMcCollum.com!
What you have to doStep 1: Buy the book any day from September 19 to September 22. Any retailer will do!
Amazon, Kobo, Barnes & Noble & Smashwords, and direct from JordanMcCollum.com!
Step 2: Email Jordan a copy of the receipt (jordan at jordanmccollum.com). Yes, even if you buy the book from Jordan's site, we need to know you want to receive the freebies.
Step 3: Wait with bated breath.
What you're going to getEVERYONE who participates gets fabulous prizes, including 13 free books and samples from wonderful authors!
The fabulous prizes!
a free copy of A Body in the Backyard (A Myrtle Clover Mystery) by Elizabeth Spann Craig
a free copy of Rose, Undercover (Dead Roses #1.1) by RaShelle Workman
a free copy of Anasazi Intrigue: The Adventures of John and Julia Evans by Linda Weaver Clarke
a free copy of Writing Your Family Legacy by Linda Weaver Clarke (Isn't she awesome?!)
a free copy of Secret Sisters by Tristi Pinkston
a free copy of Dead Running by Cami Checketts
a free copy of First Kiss (Confessions of a 16-Year-Old Virgin Lips 1) by Cindy Hogan
a preview of A Change of Plans by Donna K. Weaver
a sneak preview of The Witnesses by Stephanie Black, out next month!
a sneak preview of Pocket Full of Posies (Hostage Negotiation Team #3)by Julie Coulter Bellon, out next month!
an exclusive look at "I'll Cry for Christmas," a short story by Rachelle J. Christensen
a free copy of Mr. Nice Spy (I, Spy Prequels) by Jordan McCollum
PLUS!
An exclusive sneak preview of Spy for a Spy (Spy Another Day #2) by Jordan McCollumWhat if I've already bought I, Spy?First of all, THANK YOU!! If you take a picture of you with your copy of I, Spy (or the cover on your reading device) and post it somewhere public on the Internet— Facebook (or maybe on Jordan's Facebook page), a Tweet, Flickr, Tumblr, Instagram, sky's the limit—send Jordan the link and you can have these fabulous prizes too!
So spread the word! The more, the merrier!
Amazon, Kobo, Barnes & Noble & Smashwords, and direct from JordanMcCollum.com!
What you have to doStep 1: Buy the book any day from September 19 to September 22. Any retailer will do!Amazon, Kobo, Barnes & Noble & Smashwords, and direct from JordanMcCollum.com!
Step 2: Email Jordan a copy of the receipt (jordan at jordanmccollum.com). Yes, even if you buy the book from Jordan's site, we need to know you want to receive the freebies.
Step 3: Wait with bated breath.
What you're going to getEVERYONE who participates gets fabulous prizes, including 13 free books and samples from wonderful authors!
The fabulous prizes!
a free copy of A Body in the Backyard (A Myrtle Clover Mystery) by Elizabeth Spann Craig
a free copy of Rose, Undercover (Dead Roses #1.1) by RaShelle Workman
a free copy of Anasazi Intrigue: The Adventures of John and Julia Evans by Linda Weaver Clarke
a free copy of Writing Your Family Legacy by Linda Weaver Clarke (Isn't she awesome?!)
a free copy of Secret Sisters by Tristi Pinkston
a free copy of Dead Running by Cami Checketts
a free copy of First Kiss (Confessions of a 16-Year-Old Virgin Lips 1) by Cindy Hogan
a preview of A Change of Plans by Donna K. Weaver
a sneak preview of The Witnesses by Stephanie Black, out next month!
a sneak preview of Pocket Full of Posies (Hostage Negotiation Team #3)by Julie Coulter Bellon, out next month!
an exclusive look at "I'll Cry for Christmas," a short story by Rachelle J. Christensen
a free copy of Mr. Nice Spy (I, Spy Prequels) by Jordan McCollum
PLUS!
An exclusive sneak preview of Spy for a Spy (Spy Another Day #2) by Jordan McCollumWhat if I've already bought I, Spy?First of all, THANK YOU!! If you take a picture of you with your copy of I, Spy (or the cover on your reading device) and post it somewhere public on the Internet— Facebook (or maybe on Jordan's Facebook page), a Tweet, Flickr, Tumblr, Instagram, sky's the limit—send Jordan the link and you can have these fabulous prizes too!
So spread the word! The more, the merrier!
September 17, 2013
New Horizons and Unique Journeys
Since I first started writing—actually no, strike that—since I first decided to write for a career, I’ve paid close attention to the stories of other writers. When I say stories, I mean their personal stories, not the stories publishers are buying. I’ve paid attention to their real-life journeys.
I admit, there have been times when I wondered what my journey will look like, and if I’ll ever be one of those people with a personal story that is unique enough for others to want to hear it, and successful enough to inspire people to keep their chins up and continue moving forward, even when what they desire most is to quit.
I’m grateful for the inspiration others have shared with me, and so I hope to pay it forward. Also, I can’t lie. I once thought that paying it forward in that way would have to mean I actually reach that level of success in my career.
But as I’ve mentioned before, success doesn’t always look the way we think it should. And every journey is different. My journey—over the last year in particular—has been a roller coaster of ups and downs and sideways and circular motion that I would never have expected. With the recent announcement that my publisher is closing, I realize how distinctly unique my own story is becoming.
Whether I like it or not, I’m getting my wish.
This year, I’ve gone from aspiring author to agented, published author. And now I’m getting my rights back on that published book and there is a strong possibility that going Indie might be my next step. At the same time, I have other submissions out and other things in the works.
My story has officially become unique, and very different from any other I’ve heard. I have a diverse perspective from others, and something new to share and/or contribute to the world of aspiring authors.
I feel like I’m facing a hurricane, but somehow, as I squint into the wind, I can see the calm of a new horizon. And I understand that all of the best things come at a high price, just like the most precious metals are refined in a fire.
So yeah. It’s all good. I’m just building on my awesomely unique story so that someday, when people ask, I’ll be the one inspiring others to build their own story.
And seriously people, you can’t pay for this kind of experience.
What about you? How is your story unique?
I admit, there have been times when I wondered what my journey will look like, and if I’ll ever be one of those people with a personal story that is unique enough for others to want to hear it, and successful enough to inspire people to keep their chins up and continue moving forward, even when what they desire most is to quit.
I’m grateful for the inspiration others have shared with me, and so I hope to pay it forward. Also, I can’t lie. I once thought that paying it forward in that way would have to mean I actually reach that level of success in my career.
But as I’ve mentioned before, success doesn’t always look the way we think it should. And every journey is different. My journey—over the last year in particular—has been a roller coaster of ups and downs and sideways and circular motion that I would never have expected. With the recent announcement that my publisher is closing, I realize how distinctly unique my own story is becoming.
Whether I like it or not, I’m getting my wish.
This year, I’ve gone from aspiring author to agented, published author. And now I’m getting my rights back on that published book and there is a strong possibility that going Indie might be my next step. At the same time, I have other submissions out and other things in the works.
My story has officially become unique, and very different from any other I’ve heard. I have a diverse perspective from others, and something new to share and/or contribute to the world of aspiring authors.
I feel like I’m facing a hurricane, but somehow, as I squint into the wind, I can see the calm of a new horizon. And I understand that all of the best things come at a high price, just like the most precious metals are refined in a fire.
So yeah. It’s all good. I’m just building on my awesomely unique story so that someday, when people ask, I’ll be the one inspiring others to build their own story.
And seriously people, you can’t pay for this kind of experience.
What about you? How is your story unique?
September 10, 2013
Summer of Cray-Cray
Oh my gosh. Today, I looked at a calendar, and realized it’s September already. Not just barely September, either. The month is almost halfway over already. I keep looking again, staring at the calendar, wondering how in the heck this happened. How is summer already over?
*shakes head*
Mind boggled. Anyway, this summer has been every bit as eventful as last summer. And that’s saying something big—because last summer was CRAY-CRAY. So yeah. Here’s a short recap.
DESCENDANT was released.
I spent time in Utah conferencing and promoting and visiting.
We moved. Again. (Still in Texas, different house.)
Did some promoting in Texas.
Due to my first agent’s phenomenal success as an author, I signed with a new agent—who I also love.
Celebrated holidays with the fam.
Spent more time in Utah, this time mostly visiting family and friends.
Got reacquainted with my boat, which still lives in Utah for now.
Also visited Jackson Hole (and Yellowstone) with my besties. Hey, it’s research!
Attended WorldCON in San Antonio (which, by the way was PHENOMENAL for networking, and rocked a 15 on a scale of 1-10).
Finished drafting book 2 in the DESCENDANT series. Yaaayy!
My publisher announced they are closing. (BOOOOO!)
(Also, still no definite decisions made yet—but no worries, you’ll all be the first to know as soon as I do.)
And now school has started, and people are gearing up for fall. And I? I don’t know what I’m doing for sure, but I do know one thing. It’s time to write another book. (And hey, maybe someday I'll get one of these all my own!)
So yeah. That’s my plan. What about you? What’s your goal now that summer is over?
*shakes head*
Mind boggled. Anyway, this summer has been every bit as eventful as last summer. And that’s saying something big—because last summer was CRAY-CRAY. So yeah. Here’s a short recap.
DESCENDANT was released.
I spent time in Utah conferencing and promoting and visiting.
We moved. Again. (Still in Texas, different house.)
Did some promoting in Texas.
Due to my first agent’s phenomenal success as an author, I signed with a new agent—who I also love.
Celebrated holidays with the fam.
Spent more time in Utah, this time mostly visiting family and friends.
Got reacquainted with my boat, which still lives in Utah for now.
Also visited Jackson Hole (and Yellowstone) with my besties. Hey, it’s research!
Attended WorldCON in San Antonio (which, by the way was PHENOMENAL for networking, and rocked a 15 on a scale of 1-10).
Finished drafting book 2 in the DESCENDANT series. Yaaayy!
My publisher announced they are closing. (BOOOOO!)
(Also, still no definite decisions made yet—but no worries, you’ll all be the first to know as soon as I do.)
And now school has started, and people are gearing up for fall. And I? I don’t know what I’m doing for sure, but I do know one thing. It’s time to write another book. (And hey, maybe someday I'll get one of these all my own!)
So yeah. That’s my plan. What about you? What’s your goal now that summer is over?
