N. Gemini Sasson's Blog, page 14
August 5, 2011
Must Reads for Self-Publishers
Over the past year, I've been asked for tips on self-publishing. The ugly truth is that sometimes I'm just flying by the seat of my pants.One thing I do is sit back and watch others - meaning I read books and blogs and forum posts on anything and everything about digital publishing. I take what makes sense to me and use it, following the lead of those who've gone before, but with the realization that what worked a year ago or even few months ago to gather momentum, may not work tomorrow.
Recently, I've come across a few authors who have done a fantastic job of gathering information on self-publishing in the digital age and the importance of social media for authors. They've already said it all so much better than I ever could. So rather than reinvent the wheel, here they are:
Let's Get Digital, by David Gaughran
"This guide contains over 60,000 words of essays, articles, and how-to guides, as well as contributions from 33 bestselling indie authors including J Carson Black, Bob Mayer, Victorine Lieske, Mark Edwards, and many more. It covers everything from how the disruptive power of the internet has changed the publishing business forever to the opportunities this has created for writers. It gives you practical advice on editing, cover design, formatting, and pricing. And it reveals marketing tips from blogging and social networking right through to competitions, discounts, reviews, and giveaways. If you are considering self-publishing, if you need to breathe life into your flagging sales, or if you want to understand why it's a great time to be a writer, Let's Get Digital: How To Self-Publish, And Why You Should will explain it all."
Let's Get Digital is a comprehensive look at the advantages of writers going direct to readers. For information on where to download this book, or to grab a free pdf, go to David's blog here. He was kind enough to include the story of my path to publishing along with 32 other indie authors, but you can learn something from each and every one, as well as gain inspiration.
Smart Self-Publishing: Becoming an Indie Author, by Zoe Winters
"This book is relatively short for its subject matter, weighing in at a little over 47,000 words. There is no filler, just straight talk in Zoe's typically blunt writing style. If you're tired of people selling you rainbow farts and butterfly dreams and want to know how to think and act like a business person, create a solid plan, and become an indie author, this book is for you."
If you're considering self-publishing an e-book, this should be the first book you read. It's concise and understandable, especially if all the publishing jargon is new to you, but it really hits the important points without a bunch of fluff.
We Are Not Alone: The Writer's Guide to Social Media, by Kristen Lamb
"Kristen's method is simple, effective, and helps authors find ways to harness the imaginatin used for writing and employ this creativity to build a solid platform designed to connect with readers. This system is designed to change the writer's approach, not the writer's personality."I'm including Kristen Lamb's books because I think social media is the most misunderstood and misused aspect for many indie authors. Kristen not only gives guidance on what to do, but what NOT to do. Like, don't tweet 20 times a day that you have a book to sell (those are the first Tweeters I tune out and sometimes even un-follow.) Even for those of us who are inherently shy (moi), this book will help you more effectively and efficiently use your time.
None of these how-to books can replace putting in the time (usually years) that it takes to properly learn the craft of writing, commit to writing a whole book and then hammering it into shape, but once you've gotten to the point where you're ready to nudge your baby out into the world, they have all the information you'll need to set you well on your way.
So to all you hopeful writers out there - good luck!
P.S. If anyone has suggestions for similar books that they recommend, please feel free to share them in the comments!
Happy reading and writing,
Gemi
August 1, 2011
Summer Reading Recommendations
Hi Strangers! No, I didn't fall into a Black Hole - although that would make for some interesting conversation. In between editing my next book and taking short jaunts around the country (vacation and track meets), I've been reading.
Since Kindle allows you to sample books before purchasing, it's rare that I buy a book anymore that I don't finish, simply because I don't punch the 'Buy Now' button until I've reached the end of the sample and am still hooked. Seems like ever since I got my Kindle this past spring, I've been finding more great reads than ever. Which is why I like to share my finds with all of you.
So check out these blurbs, sift through the reviews if you'd like, and download a sample. If they're to your taste, buy and read the whole book - then be sure to share the ones you liked with your friends. Word of mouth is very powerful.
Here's my summer reading:
The Last Letter, by Kathleen Shoop
I can't say enough great things about this book. I tripped across it on the Kindle Historical Fiction Bestseller Top 100 list when it was just entering the rankings. At 99 cents, who could resist? (Although I certainly would've paid far more.) It's now in the Top 10 there - and deservedly so. It reminds me vaguely of Anne Weisgarber's lovely The Personal History of Rachel DuPree, in that both books detail the struggle of young mothers as pioneers on the prairie as they battle the unforgiving elements of nature and reach for the strength within themselves to stand up to husbands who domineer or disappoint.
The Last Letter is at times stark and gritty, but seething with emotion and startlingly realistic. It takes place in the late 19th century on the Dakota prairie and alternates between the viewpoints of the daughter, Katherine, and the mother, Jeanie Arthur. You can read my full review here at Historical Novel Review. I'll remember this book for a long time, it was that powerful.
Jack: A book about a dog where the dog doesn't die at the end, by Ray Braswell
I'm a huge, HUGE fan of both The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein and A Dog's Purpose by Bruce Cameron, but they can both leave you a little heart-heavy if you've ever loved and lost a dog - which most of us have.
This is where Jack comes in at an entirely different angle. Humor is hard to capture on the pages of a book, but if you know the general personality of Labrador Retrievers at all, this book nails it. I was laughing my head off in bed at midnight while reading this. Whatever you do, don't skip reading the footnotes. They're just as hilarious as the rest of the book, which portrays tidbits of Jack's puppyhood from the perspective of his owner, who Jack refers to as Tall Guy, and Jack himself.
Broken Laces, by Rodney Walther
Don't be fooled - this is not just a book about baseball. It's a heartfelt story about a father trying to salvage his relationship with his son after a tragedy strikes and turns their world upside down.
In trying to move forward, Jack Kennedy does so many things wrong. Just about when you think he's going to be okay, he finds a way to mess his life up. What makes this story believable is that you just know Jack is only human and his intentions are wholly good.
Waiting For Spring, by R.J. Keller
Briefly, I'll saw this was one of the most emotive books I've ever read: raw, sometimes gut-wrenching, layered, and yet imbued with traces of hope. From the outset, I cared what happened to Tess and those around her. I almost feel like I know her in person now, she was that real, albeit imperfect. Without a doubt, I am looking forward to Keller's next book with great anticipation.
I'm going back into writing/editing mode now, but I'll be sure to share more great reads once I compile another list. Up next, a few excellent references for the indie writers out there.
Happy reading,
Gemi
Since Kindle allows you to sample books before purchasing, it's rare that I buy a book anymore that I don't finish, simply because I don't punch the 'Buy Now' button until I've reached the end of the sample and am still hooked. Seems like ever since I got my Kindle this past spring, I've been finding more great reads than ever. Which is why I like to share my finds with all of you.
So check out these blurbs, sift through the reviews if you'd like, and download a sample. If they're to your taste, buy and read the whole book - then be sure to share the ones you liked with your friends. Word of mouth is very powerful.
Here's my summer reading:
The Last Letter, by Kathleen ShoopI can't say enough great things about this book. I tripped across it on the Kindle Historical Fiction Bestseller Top 100 list when it was just entering the rankings. At 99 cents, who could resist? (Although I certainly would've paid far more.) It's now in the Top 10 there - and deservedly so. It reminds me vaguely of Anne Weisgarber's lovely The Personal History of Rachel DuPree, in that both books detail the struggle of young mothers as pioneers on the prairie as they battle the unforgiving elements of nature and reach for the strength within themselves to stand up to husbands who domineer or disappoint.
The Last Letter is at times stark and gritty, but seething with emotion and startlingly realistic. It takes place in the late 19th century on the Dakota prairie and alternates between the viewpoints of the daughter, Katherine, and the mother, Jeanie Arthur. You can read my full review here at Historical Novel Review. I'll remember this book for a long time, it was that powerful.
Jack: A book about a dog where the dog doesn't die at the end, by Ray BraswellI'm a huge, HUGE fan of both The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein and A Dog's Purpose by Bruce Cameron, but they can both leave you a little heart-heavy if you've ever loved and lost a dog - which most of us have.
This is where Jack comes in at an entirely different angle. Humor is hard to capture on the pages of a book, but if you know the general personality of Labrador Retrievers at all, this book nails it. I was laughing my head off in bed at midnight while reading this. Whatever you do, don't skip reading the footnotes. They're just as hilarious as the rest of the book, which portrays tidbits of Jack's puppyhood from the perspective of his owner, who Jack refers to as Tall Guy, and Jack himself.
Broken Laces, by Rodney WaltherDon't be fooled - this is not just a book about baseball. It's a heartfelt story about a father trying to salvage his relationship with his son after a tragedy strikes and turns their world upside down.
In trying to move forward, Jack Kennedy does so many things wrong. Just about when you think he's going to be okay, he finds a way to mess his life up. What makes this story believable is that you just know Jack is only human and his intentions are wholly good.
Waiting For Spring, by R.J. Keller
Briefly, I'll saw this was one of the most emotive books I've ever read: raw, sometimes gut-wrenching, layered, and yet imbued with traces of hope. From the outset, I cared what happened to Tess and those around her. I almost feel like I know her in person now, she was that real, albeit imperfect. Without a doubt, I am looking forward to Keller's next book with great anticipation.
I'm going back into writing/editing mode now, but I'll be sure to share more great reads once I compile another list. Up next, a few excellent references for the indie writers out there.
Happy reading,
Gemi
July 5, 2011
One Year of Self-Publishing
Today, I'm over at Lisa Yarde's blog chatting about my first year of indie authorship. Check back at The Brooklyn Scribbler throughout the week to catch up with some other fledgling indie authors as they share their experiences of the past year.
Meanwhile, no, I haven't been kidnapped. I'm editing. Red pen squigglies freak me out - even when I'm the one who put them on the page. The only cure is to quietly and methodically eradicate them, surrounded by my trusty stacks of resource material. Am imbibing way too much caffeine these days.
Until later,
Gemi
Meanwhile, no, I haven't been kidnapped. I'm editing. Red pen squigglies freak me out - even when I'm the one who put them on the page. The only cure is to quietly and methodically eradicate them, surrounded by my trusty stacks of resource material. Am imbibing way too much caffeine these days.
Until later,
Gemi
June 30, 2011
Traditional vs. Self-Publishing - Is it really Us. vs. Them anymore?
We live in a digital age that has democratized authors' access to readers - and that has caused a lot of debate in the arena of traditional publishing vs. self-publishing. With print-on-demand and e-books, the floodgates have opened up. Nowadays, it seems like everyone is writing a book.
Not too long ago I resigned myself to no longer engage in such debates. I'm glad I didn't say that out loud, because here goes:
Publishing is in a state of flux. The lines are blurring. We have writers like Amanda Hocking transitioning from self-published stardom to the world of traditional publishing in order to reach even more readers. We also have writers like Seth Godin going the other direction. Now we have the announcement that JK Rowling's e-books will be available, not on Amazon or B&N, but via her own designated web site and sold in 'partnership' with her publisher.
Then there are self-published authors like John Locke selling over a million units and yet others like Nancy Gardner and Victorine Lieske breaking onto the New York Times Bestseller lists.
There used to be a prevalent belief that if you self-published you'd obliterate your chances of ever becoming traditionally published (see Amanda Hocking, above) and never make any money at it (see Amanda Hocking, above). "Yeah, but . . ." you say, "she's an exception." You're right. The truth is that aside from the standouts in self-publishing, there is a growing sector of indie mid-list authors. And yes, my name is there somewhere. You also have the tens of thousands who never sell over a hundred books because 1) the writing/formatting/cover are awful, 2) they don't know how to promote, or 3) they just give up too soon once they realize the work that's involved. No debate there.
I've seen the perpetual arguments on writers' web sites and discussion lists for or against one side too many times to count; so much so, that I just have to roll my eyes. Those who are the most vehemently against self-publishing flooding online booksellers like Amazon and Barnes and Noble basically state that the midden heap will be so high and fetid that we'll never be able to find a good book again. All I can say is that is a very black and white view of the world. Blogger/author David Gaughran dismantles that myth and others in this post.
There are also those who say they've picked up a self-published book or two (or more) that was absolute crap. Yes, they're out there, plenty of them. But you don't have to sift through ALL of them like some squinty-eyed underling combing through the slush pile at a big literary agency. Amazon, in particular, has a system of recommendations that will weed out for you what others have already weeded out. So don't worry that the moment you get on Amazon to load up your Kindle that you're going to be buried by failed 6th grade English essays masquerading as literary brilliance. Trust me, no matter how picky you are, you'll find something worthwhile to read.
Let me summarize: Self-published works are not inherently bad. Some are, I agree. Some are okay. Some are very good. And some are are FABULOUS! Quality is a gradient. And value is subjective.
When I go to a local theater production, I don't pre-judge the actors just because they aren't graduates of Juliard or Hollywood actors with multi-million dollar contracts. And you know what? I've been bored to tears, mildly entertained, and blown away at different times.
Publishing will undergo some growing pains in the next few years as it catches up with technology. Authors - both those already on top and those working their way up from the bottom - are in large part affecting that change. But ultimately, it's readers steering the ship and picking out books. And for the most part, they don't care if it's Random House that publishes a book or Joe Smith's Garage Press. They care about the quality of the story inside and whether it provides entertainment, moves them to tears or laughter, or makes them think.
Maybe, just maybe, we should judge each book not by the publisher's logo on the spine (or lack thereof), but by the content within?
Happy reading,
Gemi
Not too long ago I resigned myself to no longer engage in such debates. I'm glad I didn't say that out loud, because here goes:
Publishing is in a state of flux. The lines are blurring. We have writers like Amanda Hocking transitioning from self-published stardom to the world of traditional publishing in order to reach even more readers. We also have writers like Seth Godin going the other direction. Now we have the announcement that JK Rowling's e-books will be available, not on Amazon or B&N, but via her own designated web site and sold in 'partnership' with her publisher.
Then there are self-published authors like John Locke selling over a million units and yet others like Nancy Gardner and Victorine Lieske breaking onto the New York Times Bestseller lists.
There used to be a prevalent belief that if you self-published you'd obliterate your chances of ever becoming traditionally published (see Amanda Hocking, above) and never make any money at it (see Amanda Hocking, above). "Yeah, but . . ." you say, "she's an exception." You're right. The truth is that aside from the standouts in self-publishing, there is a growing sector of indie mid-list authors. And yes, my name is there somewhere. You also have the tens of thousands who never sell over a hundred books because 1) the writing/formatting/cover are awful, 2) they don't know how to promote, or 3) they just give up too soon once they realize the work that's involved. No debate there.
I've seen the perpetual arguments on writers' web sites and discussion lists for or against one side too many times to count; so much so, that I just have to roll my eyes. Those who are the most vehemently against self-publishing flooding online booksellers like Amazon and Barnes and Noble basically state that the midden heap will be so high and fetid that we'll never be able to find a good book again. All I can say is that is a very black and white view of the world. Blogger/author David Gaughran dismantles that myth and others in this post.
There are also those who say they've picked up a self-published book or two (or more) that was absolute crap. Yes, they're out there, plenty of them. But you don't have to sift through ALL of them like some squinty-eyed underling combing through the slush pile at a big literary agency. Amazon, in particular, has a system of recommendations that will weed out for you what others have already weeded out. So don't worry that the moment you get on Amazon to load up your Kindle that you're going to be buried by failed 6th grade English essays masquerading as literary brilliance. Trust me, no matter how picky you are, you'll find something worthwhile to read.
Let me summarize: Self-published works are not inherently bad. Some are, I agree. Some are okay. Some are very good. And some are are FABULOUS! Quality is a gradient. And value is subjective.
When I go to a local theater production, I don't pre-judge the actors just because they aren't graduates of Juliard or Hollywood actors with multi-million dollar contracts. And you know what? I've been bored to tears, mildly entertained, and blown away at different times.
Publishing will undergo some growing pains in the next few years as it catches up with technology. Authors - both those already on top and those working their way up from the bottom - are in large part affecting that change. But ultimately, it's readers steering the ship and picking out books. And for the most part, they don't care if it's Random House that publishes a book or Joe Smith's Garage Press. They care about the quality of the story inside and whether it provides entertainment, moves them to tears or laughter, or makes them think.
Maybe, just maybe, we should judge each book not by the publisher's logo on the spine (or lack thereof), but by the content within?
Happy reading,
Gemi
June 16, 2011
Milestones and Moments
Earlier this month marked my one year anniversary into the world of indie publishing. In a couple of weeks, I'll have a guest post over at Lisa Yarde's The Brooklyn Scribbler, detailing the journey of my first year.Meanwhile, I've finally cleared my schedule and am deep in wrapping up the first draft of the third book in The Bruce Trilogy - The Honor Due a King. After that there are still edits, proofing and cover to do (I sometimes forget how long that stage can take), but once I have a projected publication date I'll announce it here. I almost think I've been dragging my feet on this because I don't want to leave Robert, James and Edward behind. Authors really do get attached to their characters. After all, they usually lead much more interesting lives than we do.The highlights of my first year:1) Getting my first fan mail. Believe it or not, it came from a reader in Scotland. (Whenever I lose touch with my motivation, I glance at the letters taped to the wall behind my desk. Endless thanks to those who have bought the books, recommended them to others or left reviews and written to me. I urge all readers to spread the word about books that you enjoy. Word of mouth really is the best way for good books to find an audience.)2) Being awarded the IPPY Silver Medal for Historical Fiction for Isabeau. (So, so wish I could've gone to the ceremony in NYC to meet other writers and publishers, but sometimes family takes precedence over business.)3) Surpassing 10,000 sales in e-books. (That absolutely blows my mind, especially considering that in my first month of July 2010 I only sold 21 Kindle books.)I'll have more to blog about when I emerge from my imaginary world. Until then . . .Happy reading,Gemi
June 1, 2011
IPPY Award for Isabeau and a Giveaway for The Crown in the Heather
I'm excited to announce that Isabeau, A Novel of Queen Isabella and Sir Roger Mortimer, won the IPPY Silver Medal for Historical Fiction! There were over 4,000 total entries for this year's IPPYs (Independent Publisher Book Awards). Medals were given out on May 23rd in New York City. Unfortunately I couldn't be there, but I'm looking forward to receiving my 'bling' in the mail soon. This is a great honor, as it's the only contest that Isabeau has been entered in and there was a lot of competition, so it's had me floating on a cloud for weeks now. For anyone who's wondering - yes, there is a sequel to Isabeau in the works and, um, yeah, it just might answer some unresolved issues about the whole Isabella/Roger/Edward thing. *grin*If you haven't yet snagged a copy of The Crown in the Heather, here's you chance to win one over at Historical Fiction Obsession. Just click here, follow her blog or tweet the link and leave a comment.I first found out about Kimberly's review of The Crown in the Heather via Google Alerts (technology is a wonderful, wonderful thing). She also did a review for Isabeau. To say that I'm thrilled to have such an enthusiastic advocate for my work in a prolific book blogger like Kimberly is a GINORMOUS understatement.If you've already read and enjoyed CITH, share the link or tell your friends. Meanwhile, I'm going into my writing cave because there are people waiting on me. Oh, the pressure!Happy reading,Gemi
IPPY Award for Isabeau and a Giveaway for The Crown in the Heather
I'm excited to announce that Isabeau, A Novel of Queen Isabella and Sir Roger Mortimer, won the IPPY Silver Medal for Historical Fiction! There were over 4,000 total entries for this year's IPPYs (Independent Publisher Book Awards). Medals were given out on May 23rd in New York City. Unfortunately I couldn't be there, but I'm looking forward to receiving my 'bling' in the mail soon. This is a great honor, as it's the only contest that Isabeau has been entered in and there was a lot of competition, so it's had me floating on a cloud for weeks now. For anyone who's wondering - yes, there is a sequel to Isabeau in the works and, um, yeah, it just might answer some unresolved issues about the whole Isabella/Roger/Edward thing. *grin*If you haven't yet snagged a copy of The Crown in the Heather, here's you chance to win one over at Historical Fiction Obsession. Just click here, follow her blog or tweet the link and leave a comment.
I first found out about Kimberly's review of The Crown in the Heather via Google Alerts (technology is a wonderful, wonderful thing). She also did a review for Isabeau. To say that I'm thrilled to have such an enthusiastic advocate for my work in a prolific book blogger like Kimberly is a GINORMOUS understatement.
If you've already read and enjoyed CITH, share the link or tell your friends. Meanwhile, I'm going into my writing cave because there are people waiting on me. Oh, the pressure!
Happy reading,
Gemi
May 27, 2011
The winner is . . .
The winner of Shayne Parkinson's Promises to Keep series is . . . Chris from NJ!
Thanks once again to Lisa J. Yarde (Sultana), Sarah Woodbury (Daughter of Time, Cold My Heart), Anna Elliott (Georgiana Darcy's Diary) and Shayne Parkinson (Sentence of Marriage) for everything.
Happy reading,
Gemi
Thanks once again to Lisa J. Yarde (Sultana), Sarah Woodbury (Daughter of Time, Cold My Heart), Anna Elliott (Georgiana Darcy's Diary) and Shayne Parkinson (Sentence of Marriage) for everything.
Happy reading,
Gemi
May 23, 2011
E-book Giveaway: Featured Author Shayne Parkinson
This week's featured historical e-author is Shayne Parkinson. Shayne was born in New Zealand, and apart from two years in England she has lived there all her life. At university, she majored in English Literature. She is married to her childhood sweetheart, who grew up in the farming valley that's the inspiration for the imaginary one where her books are set. They have a few acres in the countryside, where they have an orchard and a large vegetable garden, and a small flock of sheep to keep the grass down.Shayne's book Sentence of Marriage is currently free on Smashwords, but she has also offered to provide Smashwords coupons for the three remaining e-books in the series to one lucky winner! If you'd like to be entered to win, just leave a comment. Entries close at midnight Eastern time on Thursday, April 26th.
"The story was captivating, the characters real, the dialogue crisp. I admit to having cried and laughed and even having wanted to murder a character and beat another one within an inch of his life — which is simply a testament to how well written these books are." - AmericanEditor.
I asked Shayne to share with us why she writes and what inspired her to write about New Zealand.*****
"I'm fascinated by social history, particularly that of my own country. The late Victorian era saw significant social change in New Zealand, particularly for women. The Married Women's Property Act of 1884 allowed married women to own property in their own right. Changes to divorce law meant that women could file for divorce on the same grounds as men. In 1893 New Zealand women gained the vote, the first in the world to do so. The attitude where a woman was seen as the property of first her father, later her husband, with only the most minimal of rights to her own person, was being undermined.
I'd never intended to write a sequel, let alone a series, but when I finished the three books that make up "Promises to Keep" I found that I missed the characters too much to leave them behind! That meant following them further into the early 20th century. So I wrote a sequel, and am still writing about these people. My current work-in-progress covers the years of the Great War. Finding out what it might have been like for those left at home during the war to try and cope when sons, husbands and brothers were taken from them is proving just as fascinating to me as the earlier periods were.
More background to the books' setting may be found on my website: http://sites.google.com/site/shayneparkinson/ "
*****
About Sentence of Marriage:
In 19th Century New Zealand, there are few choices for a farm girl like Amy. Her life seems mapped out for her by the time she is twelve. Amy dreams of an exciting life in the world beyond her narrow boundaries. But it is the two people who come to the farm from outside the valley who change her life forever, and Amy learns the high cost of making the wrong choice. Book 1 of "Promises to Keep".
*****
To find out more about Shayne Parkinson and her books, visit the following pages:
Shayne Parkinson's website
Shayne Parkinson's Blog - Notes from New Zealand
Her Amazon author page
Her Barnes and Noble page
Her Smashwords page
The book trailer for Sentence of Marriage on YouTube
(BTW, Shayne's books have been downloaded from Smashwords an amazing 30,000 times!)
*****
My thanks to Shayne Parkinson for sharing - and to past interviewees Lisa J. Yarde (Sultana), Sarah Woodbury (Cold My Heart) and Anna Elliott (Georgiana Darcy's Diary). I hope to host more emerging and established e-authors in the future, so readers out there can find new voices and stories to immerse themselves in.
Happy reading,
Gemi
May 20, 2011
The winners of Georgiana Darcy's Diary are...
Chris and Susan!
The winners have been contacted and will receive a Kindle copy of Anna Elliott's newest book, Georgiana Darcy's Diary. Thanks to all those who stopped by.
Next week please visit and learn more about Shayne Parkinson's books. And yes, there will be another giveaway.
Happy reading,
Gemi
The winners have been contacted and will receive a Kindle copy of Anna Elliott's newest book, Georgiana Darcy's Diary. Thanks to all those who stopped by.
Next week please visit and learn more about Shayne Parkinson's books. And yes, there will be another giveaway.
Happy reading,
Gemi
