Erica Vetsch's Blog, page 9

Slipping Into Christmas Mode

 Good morning, all! Ruthy here, and it's been a crazy couple of months around the farm, around life, around everything but in the middle of all that have been one book completed, one book half done, a new kitchen, a really cute teenager on hand to help with this, that and the other thing, a blood donation, two puppies (now at their new homes) and a lovely winter of track-and-field events, basketball games and grandkids.

So once I finished my mystery, I dove right back into a Christmas story coming out late September. This story, "Rekindling Christmas in Wishing Bridge" is a beautiful tale of a returning hero... he thinks he's a prodigal.

He's anything but.

He's a man anyone would be proud to call son, brother, husband, father, etc. but it doesn't matter that others see Luke that way.

He doesn't see himself that way and that makes all the difference.

I'm delighted to be back in this book, I love working on it, but I must admit that working and keeping my head on straight between puppies, A Certain Farmer and the massive kitchen remodel (all of which meant folks kept interrupting me... for good reason... but still... interrupting me.) tested me! EEK!

But I've emerged unscathed (pretty much) and ready to tackle a heartfelt Christmas story with spring birds finally singing outside my window. Yay, Spring!!!

So to get my head into Christmas mode I play some sweet Christmas hymns... I look at pictures of the Journey to Bethlehem that Mandy, Beth and I took in Walnut Creek, Ohio, an amazing experience that inspired me doing a similar thing in this Wishing Bridge book... and I think of that baby, that child, born to the poor.

It's a beautiful thing and it's just enough to get me in the mindset I need to have to do this story justice.

Part of being able to write a story that grabs the heart and soothes the soul is being able to make it seem organic to the setting, the time, the people, places, things, moods, emotions... and that's just how I'm feeling with this story.

Of course, if we're doing the job right, we should be feeling that way with every story, right???

Oh mylanta... and I'm behind in my mailing, so my goal is to get prizes in the mail this week and keep working on this story so that I can sail into farm season with both feet firmly planted on the ground, ready to tend pumpkins and mums... and kiss cute little faces! 

No book covers I can share yet, but I have a BEEYOOOTIFUL story coming out from Guideposts in three months, then Wishing Bridge, then Guideposts again, so I'm hoping we'll have some fun reading times together very soon. 

As for today?

I'm playing "Breath of Heaven" and loving it! 

Inspirational bestselling author Ruth Logan Herne has over seventy published novels and novellas and is so grateful to God for this amazing opportunity to let her talents shine and her words soothe. She's got a whole lot of kids and grandkids, some dogs, cats, miniature donkeys and lots of bugs on her popular pumpkin farm in Western New York. You can friend Ruthy on Facebook, email her at loganherne@gmail.com or visit her website ruthloganherne.com. She'd love to hear from you! 

Ask an Expert--And a Giveaway of Forged in Love

 

Forged in Love

Since we’re supposed to be a TEACHING blog, I decided today I’d share something I know but tend to not use enough in my writing.

Talking to experts.

I’ve had so many experiences where I reached out to someone with background knowledge of a subject and just had so much fun talking to an expert.

Very often for me, this is through museums on historical topics.

The example that works best for Forged in Love is a living history museum near me. 

I talked to a blacksmith. 

This is his hobby. There are several men who show up one weekend a month during the summer, usually starting Memorial Weekend through Labor Day weekend. They are re-enacting life in Fort Atkinson, Nebraska. There are doctors, tinsmiths, coopers, weavers, cooks and all the soldiers stationed there in this remote (back in 1820) fort meant to be the first in a series of forts built to support the fur trade. They only built one and it was abandoned after six years.

This is fifteen years after Lewis and Clark. Twenty years before the first Oregon Trail wagon trains. Fort Atkinson was fascinating.

I talked to the cooper, the cook, the soldiers and weavers. But mainly I talked to the blacksmiths.

The thing about talking to these experts in historical re-enacting is, they know so much, and they are having so much fun acting out something they know and love. And they are thrilled if someone pauses and asks them questions beyond the short talks each of them give.

I once talked to a woman who was an expert in historical laundry. Yes, laundry. Turns out there’s more to it than just heat up water, shave in soap, scrub the clothes. And she’s so eager to share.

I attended the Lewis and Clark expedition festival near me and found all these men who re-enact the Cor of Discovery. And they finish their talks and say, “Have you got any questions?”

I say, “I’ve got ONE HUNDRED questions.”

They all just perk up. It was so fun and they loved talking about what they know so well.

One of them was a historical doctor and he’s showing me his ‘medical equipment.’

I say, “You do realize that every single piece of medical equipment is some kind of knife, right? Medicine back then seems to be 95% cutting things off.”

And he just kinda bulled up, but in a great way, full of knowledge and pride and said, “There was no way to stop gangrene short of cutting a leg off. These knives were the very finest medicine in existence back then and they saved lives.”

I just loved it.

One guy showed me how to load his rifle. (No actual gun powder involved, so that was wise)

I talked to a guy once who had a masters degree in American frontier history. I didn’t know you could specialize quite that much!

I’ve talked to the head of a museum that knows all about the Oregon Trail and wagon trains. And did you know that the Santa Fe Trail began twenty years before the Oregon Trail? It left Independence, Missouri and went to Santa Fe, New Mexico with strings of mules or pack horses. It was strictly for commerce, no settlers went to Santa Fe.

Hauling supplies to Santa Fe, trading with the Spanish and Mexicans there, then turning around with supplies coming from all over Mexico and South America and making the ride back to Independence.

I’ve phoned a guy with train questions at the Trails and Rails museum in Kearney, Nebraska. He’s just the guy who answers the phone. I ask strange little questions like, how did trains heading west not crash into trains heading east? Did the trains roll on through the night?

This guy said if my questions get complicated, he’d have to send me on to someone else but so far he knows what I want.

There are others and they are all just so delighted to find someone who is interested in what they are experts in. I mean, that frontier history masters degree guy, I didn’t think he’d let us leave. We went into his office and stayed forever. And one question led to another. It was great.

I think the woman talking about historical laundry almost cried. “You have follow-up questions? Really?” sniffle. “Why yes, I know all about bluing.”

Forged in Love

Buy from Baker Book House

Buy from Amazon

Anyway, todays’ lesson is a simple one. If you want to know something obscure, ask someone. Hunt up a museum or a doctor or a science lab, and ask. You’ll make some lonely expert very happy. And you’ll learn personal, detailed, fascinating facts from someone who has a passion for getting it right.

Now think about the book you’re writing. Do you need an expert? Let’s talk about who can help you with the little things, the fine details, the one hour long conversation that might add a half a sentence in four different places, that can help bring your story to life.

Leave a comment or a question and you’ll get your name in a drawing for a signed copy of Forged in Love, book #1 in the Wyoming Sunrise Series.

AND

Drumroll

Coming up on March 20th!!!

My birthday twin (Erica Vetsch) and I....are having a party and YOU get a lot of chances to win.

Don't miss it.

Sunday Scripture & Prayer Requests

THE SECOND SUNDAY IN LENT

The Transfiguration by Raphael, c. 1520, Vatican Museum.
[PD-US]

Jesus took Peter, James, and John his brother,
and led them up a high mountain by themselves.
And he was transfigured before them;
his face shone like the sun
and his clothes became white as light.
And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them,
conversing with him.
Then Peter said to Jesus in reply,
"Lord, it is good that we are here.
If you wish, I will make three tents here,
one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah."
While he was still speaking, behold,
a bright cloud cast a shadow over them,
then from the cloud came a voice that said,
"This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased;
listen to him."
When the disciples heard this, they fell prostrate
and were very much afraid.
But Jesus came and touched them, saying,
"Rise, and do not be afraid."
And when the disciples raised their eyes,
they saw no one else but Jesus alone.

As they were coming down from the mountain,
Jesus charged them,
"Do not tell the vision to anyone
until the Son of Man has been raised from the dead."

Matthew 17:1-9

The Seekerville bloggers are praying for YOU and for our entire blog community throughout Lent. If you have any special intentions that need additional prayer coverage, leave a request for prayer in the comment section below. 

Please pray for our country and for an end to the problems that plague us at this current time, such as the increased cost of fuel and food and the rise in crime. Also pray for world peace and a resolution to the conflict in Ukraine.

Additionally, join us in praying for the protection of our military and for law enforcement officers and border agents.   
We are so grateful for all of you—for your friendship and your support! 

God bless you and keep you safe.

May the Lord bless all of us during this prayerful time of Lent with a new appreciation of His mercy and love.   

 

Weekend Edition

  






If you are not familiar with our giveaway rules, take a minute to read them here. It keeps us all happy! All winners should send their name, address, and phone number to claim prizes.  Please send to Seekerville2@gmail.com. If the winner does not contact us within two weeks, another winner may be selected. **(All winners' emails will receive a response within a week. If you do not receive an acknowledgement, we may not have received it. Please leave a comment in the following Weekend Edition.)


Monday: Erica chatted with some friends on what to do to make an author event successful!
Wednesday: Mindy explained how starting a new story can be a lot like dating in Falling In Love With Your Next Book. The winner of  Easter on the Ranch , a 2-in-1 with the first book in Mindy's Rocky Mountain Heroes series, Their Ranch Reunion, and Jessica Keller's The Rancher's Legacy is... LaShaunda Hoffman
Thursday: Audra recapped her study of The Emotional Craft of Fiction by Donald Maass 





Monday: Mary is our hostess today
Wednesday: Ruthy is our hostess today
Thursday: Guest Tracy Fredrychowski will talk about "When Real Life Collides with Amish Fiction…" Tracy always provides great blogposts so be sure to stop in on Thursday and say hello!  






Historical Fiction: Unpacked | Women’s Suffrage in Wyoming—with Mary Connealy (alisontreat.com)
In Bookstores NowBuy from Baker Book HouseBuy from Amazon

Now Available!
One book, two stories.  Easter on the Ranch  has the first book in Mindy Obenhaus's Rocky Mountain Heroes series, Their Ranch Reunion and Jessica Keller’s The Rancher’s Legacy.
Get your copy here.






Disclaimer: Any blog post that includes an offer of product purchase or service is NOT to be considered an endorsement by Seekerville or any of our authors  (please see our Legal page )


How to Write a Mystery by KM Weiland at Helping Writers Become Authors
5 Ways to Raise the Stakes in a Scene by Janice Hardy at Fiction University
Should You Fast Draft Your Novel? by Kirsten Kieffer at Well-Storied
Writing the Not-So-Perfect Heroine by Shannon Redmon at Blue Mountain Conference
Tips on Writing Difficult Characters by Sarah Sally Hamer at The Write Conversation
Calm the Chaos in Your Manuscript with Bugs Bunny by Peter Leavell at Learn How To Write A Novel
Are Writers Obsolete Yet? by Debbie Burke at Killzone blog
Fear Thesaurus Entry: Hope by Becca Puglisi at Writers Helping Writers
Avoiding Info Dumps in Worldbuilding by Hannah Bauman at Between The Lines Editorial
How to Raise the Stakes in Your Story by Kristen Kieffer at Well-Storied

Writing Emotional Fiction

“You are never too old to learn more than you already know and to become able to do more than you already can.” -Isaac Asimov

Hello, Everyone! Audra here.

No matter how long you’ve been writing, there’s always something new you can learn. I’ve been scribbling stories since elementary school. Obviously a romantic at heart because even then, my stories were based on love with HEA. My high school creative writing teacher told me I had better come up with something better than the “sap” I’d been turning in if I expected to get an A in her class! (BTW, a simple, short hiaku, that left me no room for sap, earned the A…go figure).

Anyway, as I was saying, learning is a lifelong endeavor. If you just complete the first draft of your first novel, or celebrated the 50th published work, there are always methods and techniques to be explored. Or reviewed. Or studied. If we don’t make an effort to continuously hone and experience our writing, our work might go the way of so many authors I’ve read recently who pump out series stories at the rate of light and sound. One particular series of 7 books - from an author I’d discovered through BookBub - made me think about not finishing the series by the end of book 4, but I was invested in the setting and the potential (and I had already prepaid for the entire series), so I skimmed through the remaining books and then unclicked the “follow” button on Amazon.

What drove me to do that? Predictable plot; cookie cutter characters; inevitable lack of tension.

We put a lot of time, effort and, well, us, in our books. We don’t want people to unclick “follow.” We want them to wait eagerly for our next work.  

So friends, we need to stay up with the current plot topics, desirable locations for settings, AND most of all... 

I belong to a writer’s group that meets monthly. Since COVID, we alternate our meeting between virtual and in-person. Every other month, I drive to the in-person meeting where we’ve chosen a craft book to be read over two months and then we discuss it at our next meeting, and then put into action some of the techniques at the following meeting (January - April, June - August, October - December). 

We are currently studying a Donald Maass book, The Emotional Craft of Fiction. Now, I’ve read Donald Maass books in the past and always thought them dense with information and opinion - a real slog-fest, if you know what I mean. I know I've burned calories just trying to comprehend the nuggets of wisdom he buried in the text. 

on Amazon

This craft book was different. I think the Don relaxed a bit in his tone and technique because for as much as I procrastinated reading the assignment, I found the book easy to navigate and remarkably astute.

Here are a few nuggets of wisdom I’ve gleaned:

In Chapter 3: The Emotional World, he points out we experience life as feelings. Shouldn’t our characters, as well? We’ve all heard and understood the wisdom of getting to know our characters before we drop them into their own world, right? But do we really? Have you truly had a heart to heart with H/H and discovered their fears, their triumphs, their insecurities, all the life struggles they’ve endured up to the point where you write the first sentence of your book? 

When we bring our characters’ true feelings to the surface, we may connect with a tiny spot of truth within the reader. When we share a bit of ourselves with the reader through our characters, we are adding that human element to our story that only a human author can endow. When our characters respond to conflicts and triumphs throughout the plot as their upbringing (perhaps yours?) has shaped them, we engage on a whole new level of relate-ability with the character.

In Chapter 5: The Emotional Plot, Maass points out even airtight plots can fail to engage the reader emotionally. The reader needs personal stakes to make the story matter. Establish the inner need or yearning that drives the character early in the book. 

Let the reader know the inner and outer journey of the character comes from an emotional place deep inside them. Don’t be afraid to put yourself in each and every novel you write. After all, how can these characters come up with the EMOTIONS to carry a novel when they don’t have any experience?

In Chapter 7: The Writer’s Emotional Journey, underscores how important it is to our characters and our books, to draw on our own rich experiences in life. If you don’t think the inner you has a way of shouldering its way on to the page, you have another think coming! Your mood, your experiences color your novels more than you realize. Your morals, your virtues, your spirit bleeds through the themes of your books whether you recognize it or not.  

I want to share with you the last paragraph of Chapter 7, page 201 paperback:

The Emotional Craft of Fiction

Hope is the core gift we give our reader. If you are an author writing romantic fiction, isn’t hope the best gift you can ever offer your readers?

Yeah, I’ve been accused of being sappy and writing it. Thank you very much! I’m the self-proclaimed Queen of Sap and I embrace the title completely. 

How about you? How are your emotions and experiences showing in your novel?

*   *   *

Audra Harders writes "rugged stories with heart" featuring fearless men who haven't a clue about relationships, rescued by ladies who think they have all the answers. In real life, she's married to her own patient hero, has two adult children, and a very strong-willed Corgi. She began writing right after her second kidlet was born, and sold her first book to Love Inspired mere months before that same young adult graduated from high school. Surviving those years in between reminds her God does have a plan for her life...and that He has a tremendous sense of humor. You can visit Audra at:

Website: www.audraharders.com

Falling in Love with Your Next Book

 by Mindy Obenhaus

So here I am at the beginning of a new story. And I'm realizing the process is a lot like dating. C'mon, let me show you what I mean.

The Initial Meeting -

Your eyes meet, and you both feel it. That spark. You strike up a conversation, and your heart is all aflutter. Could this be the one? 

Yes, each and every book starts with a spark of an idea. It could be a premise or a character. Whatever the case, you're intrigued. And the possibilities seem endless. But before you can commit to writing the story, you need more information.

Getting to Know You -

You meet for coffee, go on a few dates, text/talk often. Learning a little bit more about one other with each conversation.

As with any good relationship, you have to get to know one another. Perhaps there's an element to your story that you don't know much about. Do your research to find out if it will work for what you have in mind. 

You also need to get to know your characters. What do they do for a living? Where are they from? What is their family like? Do they have siblings? What are their likes and dislikes? What do they want out of life (aka, goal), why (motivation) and what stands in their way (conflict)? 

Taking Things to the Next Level -

Things are clicking. But before you commit to a relationship, you want to know more about them. Their hopes and dreams. Do they want kids? 

It takes time to dig deeper and find out what makes your characters tick. The more you know, the more layered your characters become. And those layers not only enrich a story, they can often drive it. What is their greatest dream? Their greatest fear? And don't forget to channel your inner four-year-old by perpetually asking "Why?"

Make or Break?

So, the relationship seems to be clicking. But are you just comfortable with each other or do you see it becoming a committed relationship?

If a story isn't working or seems to fall flat, then it might be time to move on. Go back to the drawing board. Though things might not be a total wash. In this story I'm working on, I had the right characters, but I was trying to fit them into a story that was all wrong for them. There was no conflict. So, I came up with a completely different plot where the conflict was organic and not forced. And now the sparks are really flying. 

New story love can be exhilarating. We're infatuated with the characters and the story. But infatuation doesn't necessarily lead to a happily ever after. Get to know both your story and your characters before taking the plunge so you have all the elements to carry you on to that happily ever after.

I'm giving away a copy of Easter on the Ranch, a 2-in-1 with the first book in my Rocky Mountain Heroes series, Their Ranch Reunion, and Jessica Keller's The Rancher's Legacy. Simply leave a comment to be entered. (US mailing addresses, please)

Spring and second chances

The Rancher's Legacy by Jessica Keller

Returning home isn’t part of Rhett Jarrett’s plan—until he inherits the family ranch from his father. Running it won’t be easy with his ranch assistant and childhood friend, Macy Howell, challenging all his decisions. But a long-buried family secret might help Rhett begin to see things Macy’s way…and allow them to find love—and a home—together at last.

Their Ranch Reunion by Mindy Obenhaus

Single mom Carly Wagner is surprised to learn she’ll have to share ownership of the home she’s inherited with her first love, Andrew Stephens. Now a successful businessman, he’s standing in the way of her dreams to expand her B and B. Andrew has eight weeks to buy Carly out. But Carly’s too stubborn to persuade—and too beautiful to ignore. Should he leave and chase another deal…or stay and chase Carly’s heart?

Award-winning author Mindy Obenhaus is passionate about touching readers with Biblical truths in an entertaining, and sometimes adventurous, manner. She lives on a ranch in Texas with her husband, two sassy pups, countless cattle, deer and the occasional coyote, mountain lion or snake. When she's not writing, she enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, cooking and watching copious amounts of the Hallmark Channel. Learn more at www.MindyObenhaus.com  

The Dos and Don'ts of Author Events

 Erica here, and I thought it might be fun to ask some experts about what to do and not to do at an author event. My lovely friends gave some great advice! 

This picture has nothing to do with theblog post, I just thought it was cool!Found it on pixabay!

First, let's define an author event. By this, I mean a venue where the author interacts with the general public. Book signings, panel discussions, reader retreats, etc. This does not cover writing retreats or writing conferences, unless there is a book signing/appearance as part of the event.

Second, let's break it up into categories of things to consider:

1. Communication with the Venue

For myself, I ask for a contact person (librarian, event coordinator, bookstore employee) who will be my go-to person for communication. I tend to prefer email or text, as I will then have a written record to which I can refer back. I confirm the date, time, and location at the time of booking the event, then a week ahead, I touch base that nothing has changed. 

I ask a few questions at the time of booking, too. Am I providing books for sale? Do you have a projector/screen for power point presentations? How long should I plan to talk? Are there treats provided? How many should I expect to attend? That sort of thing.

Author Kari Trumbo said: confirm what they have there and what you'll need. Ask about residential and state sales tax and where you'll need to file those taxes.

Author Toni Shiloh: I'm an introvert so email for the win!

Gabrielle Meyer: I usually email or speak to the coordinator several times before I agree to an event. I always ask about a projector, if I'm giving a PowerPoint presentation. I ask how long they would like me to speak, if they have any particular subject they want me to talk about, and how many people they might expect (this helps, if I'm giving away swag items). I also get a telephone number for the coordinator, in case I have issues on the day of the event that might prevent me from arriving on time, or, when I get there. I always touch base with them a day or two in advance to make sure their plans haven't changed, and to let them know I'm still planning to come.

2. What to Bring

This goes back to the communication section, as many of the answers can be found by asking the venue, but there are things I bring to an event regardless of the setting.

a. I bring Jane Austen. Well, my Funko Pop of Jane. She's a bit of a mascot for me, and a fun photo op too. She appears in my newsletter each month, so taking her to events is a win-win.

b. Bookmarks, business cards, promo materials. Having something to hand out to visitors, and especially to leave behind at a bookstore or library for patrons is always nice.

c. If necessary, a tablecloth, bookstands, things to pretty up the table.

d. A way for readers to stay in touch. A QR code for signing up for your newsletter, or a clipboard with a sign up sheet, etc.

Author Crystal Caudill said: Print off a sign with your newsletter magnet and a QR code for signing up for your newsletter. Stick it in a plastic display stand and tuck it on the corner of your table for people to scan. (Image of mine attached.) Bring freebies that redirect people back to you and your books/website. (Stickers & bookmarks go over well.) Don't forget your favorite pens. I've found that I LOVE to use Pentel's Needle Tip EnerGel pens instead of a sharpie. If you're doing a bookfair type of event, have a sign with your picture, name, and genre on it so readers have a quick reference of what you write. I also included a QR code to my website on the sign. You can get them from Staples for pretty cheap.
I work with a very small local bookstore, and so I make all the images and advertising for myself and share it with them. They always use it on their social media, newsletters, and front door.

Isn't this cool?
Author Toni Shiloh:  Ask the venue if they have table, chairs, signage, books already. That way you know if you need to bring your own. I've even had venue supply the signing pen and tablecloth.
The beautiful Tony at an event!The tiara for the win!!!!

Author Kari Trumbo: I have a "book case" that I bring with my table runner, swag, change, my nice book signing pens, and my collapsible book holders. It also has 4 PVC tubes cut to 1ft each to put on each leg of the table to elevate it. Bending over to examine books on a table is uncomfortable. Books higher and easier to see = people will stick around and talk to you longer.
Kari and a friend at an author event!
Author Gabrielle Meyer : When I attend a speaking event, I always bring with my computer and charging cord (especially if I have a PowerPoint presentation), bookmarks that have a QR code that takes people to my website where they can sign up for my newsletter and see my list of books, books to sell (if the coordinator has agreed to let me sell my own books--sometimes there are rules and regulations against selling books at events), change (if I'm selling my books), a pen to sign books, extra bookplates, in case a reader has books at home that they didn't bring, but would like a signed bookplate to put in them, a bottle of water, and tissues.
3. What to Wear
I'm all about comfort, but I also want to look professional...so I wear knit black pants, a colorful top, and I have a 3/4 sleeve black, knit jacket that I bring along. Because I tend to run warm, I usually remove the jacket after the first three minutes. :) Comfy shoes are the name of the game for me, because I usually spend quite a bit of time on my feet at these events.

Gabrielle Meyer: I like to feel my best when I'm standing in front of a crowd, so I wear clothing that is comfortable, stylish, and makes me feel good. I like to wear business casual. I also make sure I am wearing comfortable shoes, so I'm not wobbly or in pain.
Gabrielle (center) on an author panel at theMississippi River Readers Retreat.


Kari Trumbo:  What to wear - comfortable shoes. Other than that, anything goes. I've worn everything from a nice outfit to a hoop skirt with crinoline.
Kari, on the right in period dress!

Toni Shiloh: Layers!! It can be cold in the building but you can get hot as well if you start standing up and talking to people a lot.
4. What to Charge
This depends upon the event. Signing at a bookstore? I never charge for that. A library event, most libraries have funds designated for speakers. If it's more than thirty miles away from my home, I ask for travel cost to be covered, but there is often a stipend included. Other big events may actually charge the author to attend. A table at the book signing for XX amount of dollars. I recently was at a hotel where a reader event and a writer's conference were occurring simultaneously, and authors had to pay per activity they wished to attend with readers. $ to be on a panel discussion. $ to host a dinner table. $ to eat donuts with the readers, etc. I always try to balance the ROI of these types of events. What is the Return on Investment, of time, travel, outlay, expenses, etc.
As to selling books at an event: my favorite way to do this is to partner with a bookstore. If you're doing a book singing IN a bookstore, all the better. They handle the ordering, the selling, the taxes, etc. If I have to bring my own stock to sell, I take a few dollars off the cover price, or bundle price. One for ten, Two for eighteen, Three for Twenty five...something like that.
Kari Trumbo: I charge a few dollars below Amazon pricing and I also offer deals on bundles (buy one for this price or three and save x amount).
Gabrielle Meyer:  This is different for each event I speak at. If I'm speaking to a book club, I usually don't charge them, since they've all purchased my book. If they offer to pay me, I will ask for them to cover my gas expenses (if I'm driving). For an organization that is asking me to be a guest speaker or keynote speaker, I do charge. It usually depends on how much they have earmarked for their speakers. It can be anywhere between $50-$150. If they can't pay me, then I ask if I can sell my books at their event, and this usually helps defer costs.
Gabe speaking at an event.



Each event has its own caveats and unique situations, but some things are the same every time. You, as the author, really just want to meet some nice people, find out if you have things in common, and make your event a pleasure for both the venue and the attendants. A little advance planning on your part can help increase the possibilities that the event is a success.
Thank you to my friends, Toni, Kari, Crystal, and Gabrielle for their help and expertise! You can find more about them through these links:


https://tonishiloh.com/ 

https://crystalcaudill.com/

https://karitrumbo.com/

https://gabriellemeyer.com/
Best-selling, award-winning author, Erica Vetsch loves Jesus, history, romance, and sports. When she’s not writing fiction, she’s planning her next trip to a history museum. You can connect with her at her website, www.ericavetsch.com where you can learn about her books and sign up for her newsletter, and you can find her online at https://www.facebook.com/groups/inspirationalregencyreaders where she spends way too much time!

Sunday Scripture & Prayer Requests

THE FIRST SUNDAY IN LENT

Jesus Tempted in the Wilderness (Jésus tenté dans le désert), James Tissot, Brooklyn Museum, 1886-1894. {PD-US]

At that time Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert
to be tempted by the devil.
He fasted for forty days and forty nights,
and afterwards he was hungry.
The tempter approached and said to him,
"If you are the Son of God,
command that these stones become loaves of bread."
He said in reply,
"It is written:
One does not live on bread alone,
but on every word that comes forth
from the mouth of God."

Then the devil took him to the holy city,
and made him stand on the parapet of the temple,
and said to him, "If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down.
For it is written:
He will command his angels concerning you
and with their hands they will support you,
lest you dash your foot against a stone."
Jesus answered him,
"Again it is written,
You shall not put the Lord, your God, to the test."
Then the devil took him up to a very high mountain,
and showed him all the kingdoms of the world in their magnificence,
and he said to him, "All these I shall give to you,
if you will prostrate yourself and worship me."
At this, Jesus said to him,
"Get away, Satan!
It is written:
The Lord, your God, shall you worship
and him alone shall you serve."

Then the devil left him and, behold,
angels came and ministered to him.

Matthew 4:1-11 

The Seekerville bloggers are praying for YOU and for our entire blog community. If you have any special intentions that need additional prayer coverage, leave a request for prayer in the comment section below. 

Please pray for our country and for an end to the problems that plague us at this current time, such as the increased cost of fuel and food and the rise in crime.

Also, please join us in praying for the protection of our military and for law enforcement officers and border agents.   
We are so grateful for all of you—for your friendship and your support! 

God bless you and keep you safe.     

Weekend Edition

  






If you are not familiar with our giveaway rules, take a minute to read them here. It keeps us all happy! All winners should send their name, address, and phone number to claim prizes.  Please send to Seekerville2@gmail.com. If the winner does not contact us within two weeks, another winner may be selected. **(All winners' emails will receive a response within a week. If you do not receive an acknowledgement, we may not have received it. Please leave a comment in the following Weekend Edition.)


Monday: Jan gave insight on the Lingo of Storytelling
Wednesday: Cate offered an inspirational post on This Writing Lake
Thursday: Pam talked about how Writing Is Like Dieting (can you imagine??)




Monday: Erica asked a few friends to join her to talk about the Dos and Don'ts of Author Events
Wednesday: Mindy will be here to kick off the month of March!
Thursday: Audra has been reading How-To books and will share what she has learned.  




Available now!
One book, two stories.  Easter on the Ranch  has the first book in Mindy Obenhaus's Rocky Mountain Heroes series, Their Ranch Reunion and Jessica Keller’s The Rancher’s Legacy.
Spring and second chances

The Rancher's Legacy by Jessica Keller

Returning home isn’t part of Rhett Jarrett’s plan—until he inherits the family ranch from his father. Running it won’t be easy with his ranch assistant and childhood friend, Macy Howell, challenging all his decisions. But a long-buried family secret might help Rhett begin to see things Macy’s way…and allow them to find love—and a home—together at last.

Their Ranch Reunion by Mindy Obenhaus

Single mom Carly Wagner is surprised to learn she’ll have to share ownership of the home she’s inherited with her first love, Andrew Stephens. Now a successful businessman, he’s standing in the way of her dreams to expand her B and B. Andrew has eight weeks to buy Carly out. But Carly’s too stubborn to persuade—and too beautiful to ignore. Should he leave and chase another deal…or stay and chase Carly’s heart?
Get your copy here.








Disclaimer: Any blog post that includes an offer of product purchase or service is NOT to be considered an endorsement by Seekerville or any of our authors  (please see our Legal page )
15 Ways for an Author to Market a Book to Readers Before Writing It by DiAnn Mills at The Write Conversation
Historical Research and Fiction by Marguerite Gray at ACFW blog
by Keith Cronin at Writer UnBoxed
Wire Transfer Fraud by Debbie Burke at Killzone blog
Is It Too Late to Start Writing? by Hunter at Write To Done
Should Authors Blog? by Hallee Bridgeman at Learn How To Write A Novel
Different Types of Characters in a Story by Gloria Russell at The Write Life
Retiring to Write or Writing to Retire, Pt 1 by Kris Maze at Writers In The Storm
How to Find Your Readers by Jenna Harte at Fiction University
How to Write Historical Fiction by KM Weiland at Helping Writers Become Authors

Five Ways Writing is Like Dieting

Pam here. How many of us have set a New Year’s resolution to lose weight at some point or another? Or simply started a new health plan just to feel better in general? It’s amazing how much writing can be like dieting. And I’ve come up with FIVE ways the two are similar. Let’s compare…
1) Make Healthy Choices - We know that certain foods are more healthy than others, and even some healthy choices don’t agree with everyone. Find out what works for your writing. Are you a pantster or a plotter? Do you prefer writing all the way through or polishing as you go? Do you write one thousand words a day or throw everything but the contents of your fridge on the page in a month-long marathon writing session? Once you figure out the plan that works for you and the writing plan that you can see yourself sticking to for life, you’re on your way to a healthy writing career.

2) Start Over Every Three Hours - One of the selling points of a healthy lifestyle is not to beat yourself up if you cheat or go off your eating plan once or twice. The problem comes when you throw in the towel and one or two slip-ups become a month-long binge of unhealthy eating. It’s the same with writing. You slip up. You get behind. The story isn’t working. It happens to all of us. But don’t beat yourself up and let that slip-up turn in to long-term failure. Start over. I don’t necessarily mean start your project over, but start your PLAN over. Tired? Discouraged? The writing is like slogging through quicksand? You’ve hit a brick wall? Everything will look better in three hours, or after a good night’s sleep. Sometimes all it takes is a quick power walk to reset everything. Don’t give up. Take a deep breath and put Tip #1 into action.
And this leads directly into comparison #3….
3) Plan Ahead - The biggest mistake and what usually leads to going off-track is not keeping on-plan staples to prepare healthy meals and snacks on hand. I confess that I put off grocery shopping as long as possible, and this has sabotaged my healthy eating kick more than once. Eventually, with not a single fresh vegetable in the house, I’ll give in and do the marathon 3-5 hour shopping trip to restock the fridge, freezer, and pantry. The same is true in our writing. The more prepared we are, the better our writing sessions will flow. For some, this might mean a 20 page synopsis, detailed character charts complete with photos; for others, just reading what you wrote the day before and honing in on the emotions and moving forward works. Regardless, there is some planning taking place, whether it’s in your head or on paper. Stick to the plan.
4) Exercise - A bit of exercise is healthy for our bodies and our brain. It gets the heart pumping, increases our metabolism, and clears the brain. My exercise the last few years has been bending and lifting weights (grand babies), as well as sweeping, moping, and vacuuming twice a week since we had a crawler much of that time. Now that all the grands are walking, so I spend my time keeping up with them three times a week. I call that a win-win. As far as writing, we get a two-fer here. Physical exercise is good for both our health and to get our brain cells pumping. No brainer there! So take a break from the computer and chase some kids, or just take a brisk walk to recharge.
5) Seasons of Stress - One of the biggest pitfalls of any diet plan seems to be stress. A dedicated stress-eater can devour an entire carton of Ben & Jerry’s Cookie Dough ice cream in one sitting. Me? Give me a large (the biggest they make, baby!) bag of Ruffles Cheddar and Sour Cream chips and a container of French Onion dip and I can kick stress to the curb big time. This is the reason chips and dip are banned at my house. Sigh.

Recognize that there will be seasons that stress your writing plan to the max. Just like the “Calgon Take Me Away” commercials from yesteryear, we’re bombarded with life on a daily basis. Kids, spouses, elder care, day jobs in addition to writing, housework, shopping, cooking, (should I dare mention that April 15th is looming?). Add in a winter cold or flu that lingers for six weeks, or a sick child, an audit, a wedding, or car wreck, or any number of life-altering but totally unexpected stress inducing events and suddenly your well-planned writing schedule has gone the way of the empty Ben & Jerry’s ice cream container.
Don’t let a season of stress completely do you in. Deal with what you have to deal with even if you have to put writing on the back burner for a while. But when the dust settles, when the sick child is all better, when the audit is done, take a deep breath and start over.
Make healthy choices. Start over. Plan ahead. Exercise. Don't Stress.p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-indent: 18.0px; font: 18.0px Cochin} p.p2 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-indent: 18.0px; font: 18.0px Cochin; min-height: 21.0px}
And that, my Seeker friends, is a recipe for success whether you're writing or dieting.


Visit Pam at www.pamhillman.com