R. Frederick Riddle's Blog, page 34

Ron’s Tip of the Day Microblogging

Welcome to Ron’s Tip of the Day. Throughout the week I will share a tip with you. This is an experiment in microblogging. Let me know how I’m doing. Today I am looking at Microblogging.

What is Microblogging?

Essentially it is bitesized blogs. There is no hardcore word limit, although my research indicates a typical microblog is less than 500 words.

How Often Will You Microblog?

The general idea is daily. But that can vary. Goal wise, I want to microblog Monday through Friday.

Why are you Microblogging?

Originally, I started blogging to build my name recognition and to help the sale of my books. But now I enjoy it. However, blogging can be time consuming. Microblogging should be less demanding and allow me more time to write and do my other daily chores.

What will be Your Number One Challenge?

Too soon to tell. But I imagine keeping a lively blog going with interesting tidbits on writing. Another potential problem is keeping under the 500-word limit.

Do You Recommend it for Everyone?

Not at this time. Like I said above this is an experiment. However it is exciting right now.

For information on TR Writing Services (“we edit, proof, and publish the book within you”)  contact us at marketing@tr-indbkstore.com. Our Free booklet tells you about our services. And we are upfront on our prices (all are low).

VISIT MY AUTHOR’S PAGE TODAY: amazon.com/author/rfrederickriddle.

ARE YOU A BOOK REVIEWER? I am always looking for book reviews for R. Frederick Riddle and Tess Riddle books. I value your reviews.

If you would like to review our books contact me at marketing@tr-indbkstore.com with the subject line indicating that desire. An example of an appropriate subject line would be: ‘Seek to review [book Title].’ In the email make sure to indicate your email address, your name, and the choice of copy (PDF or Epub).

 – – – – – – –

R Frederick Riddle is the Editor of TR Writing Services providing help to struggling and/or new authors to write and publish their books. In addition, he is best known for Christian Historical and Speculative Fiction. He is also co-founder and Vice President of T&R Independent Books where his books are featured. To reply to any blog you have the option of commenting on a blog and/or sending an email to marketing@tr-indbkstore.com. You may also be interested in his Facebook page at RFrederickRiddlesWorld.

Ron’s Tuesday’s : Tip Using Video

Welcome to Ron’s Tuesday’s Tip. Every Tuesday I will share a tip with you. This week I am looking at Using Video.

I am new at using videos to promote the business. While I’ve developed videos over the past several years, I have little experience using them. So this is not a How To. I’m still learning.

Today I am discussing with you what I am thinking and doing with videos in regard to my writing career and TR Writing Services.

Writing Career

Over the years I’ve looked at YouTube and FaceBook video ads. These are powerful tools and I’m still looking at them. Also I am now taking a closer look at them and one other venue.

This other venue is our website at TR-writingservices.com. Under our Services tab I have just today (March 10, 2020) put out a series of videos entitled It’s Your Business. You’ll find more information below.

My wife and I have discussed me interviewing her about her debut novel Haney Place Secrets. I’m also considering doing other videos about my books. It is all tentative, but I’m a little excited.

TR Writing Services

It’s Your Business is now available on FaceBook and our website TR-WritingServices.com. Located in Videos on Facebook and  under Services on the website. I’ve also uploaded to YouTube, but that needs work.

What’s Next?

I already mentioned our plans. I will be moving slowly to avoid major mistakes. Plus I plan to emphasize Local Marketing as much as is possible.

What are you doing?

For information on TR Writing Services (“we edit, proof, and publish the book within you”)  contact us at marketing@tr-indbkstore.com. Our Free booklet tells you about our services. And we are upfront on our prices (all are low).

VISIT MY AUTHOR’S PAGE TODAY: amazon.com/author/rfrederickriddle.

ARE YOU A BOOK REVIEWER? I am always looking for book reviews for R. Frederick Riddle and Tess Riddle books. I value your reviews.

If you would like to review our books contact me at marketing@tr-indbkstore.com with the subject line indicating that desire. An example of an appropriate subject line would be: ‘Seek to review [book Title].’ In the email make sure to indicate your email address, your name, and the choice of copy (PDF or Epub).

 – – – – – – –

R Frederick Riddle is the Editor of TR Writing Services providing help to struggling and/or new authors to write and publish their books. In addition, he is best known for Christian Historical and Speculative Fiction. He is also co-founder and Vice President of T&R Independent Books where his books are featured. To reply to any blog you have the option of commenting on a blog and/or sending an email to marketing@tr-indbkstore.com. You may also be interested in his Facebook page at RFrederickRiddlesWorld.

Ron’s Tuesday’s Tip: One Genre or Multi-Genre?

Welcome to Ron’s Tuesday’s Tip. Every Tuesday I will share a tip with you. This week I am looking at One Genre or Multi-Genre?

Should I focus on only one Genre or multiple Genre?

That’s actually a good question. I focused for years on one genre, namely Historical Fiction. It remains my preferred genre, but I’ve now completed my first series in Speculative Fiction and I loved it!

Recently I began writing in the genre Mystery. And again I love it.

The real question is Am I able to Write in Multiple Genres?

Ultimately it is your audience that determines the answer to that. However, it is possible that you could end up with a different audience for each genre. In fact, I’d say that is likely that your audiences will change from genre to genre.

Breaking into a new genre (for you) can also be tough. In my case, my primary focus is writing good fiction no matter what the genre. Getting people to like my books is more a matter of marketing than anything else.

So How Can I Know?

Another good question.

Sales will tell you how good your marketing is, although it might have something to say about your writing quality also. But primarily it is about marketing.

Here’s a question for you?

When you write in a different genre, what do you think of your work? After writing, editing, and getting ready for publication sit back and read your book as a book not as a manuscript. Read it through. Did you enjoy it?

Obviously in a mystery you will already know the solution, but the question is, did you enjoy the book? If you did then that is a major plus!

Then try to get Reviews.

How Do I Get Reviews?

There are a lot of people who want to review books. Some will charge you money. Nothing wrong with that as long as they abide by Amazon rules. Why Amazon? Because they are the biggest seller of books out there and your reviews will go online and be visible to their vast number of followers.

So be careful about paid reviewers.

The biggest problem with paid reviewers is the fee charged. Some are costly and some are not. I suggest you google paid reviewers or something like that and check for yourself.

Then there are those who are unpaid reviewers. They love books and maybe certain genres, so they offer to review your book. They get a copy of the book from you, get to read it for free and then they comment on it. It is sort of a win-win for the reviewer and for you the author. It is worth checking into.

What if I’ve Already Started in a Different Genre?

Not a problem.

I started writing in other genres because I liked to read them. For Christland, a speculative novel, I delved into it because I liked Science Fiction. Most Science Fiction is evolutionary in concept and I don’t believe in evolution. Did that rule it out for me?

No!

My Christland novels have human beings contending with other human beings. They travel through space and they face obstacles. There are super weapons and bigger than life characters, but no little green men from Mars.

The thing to remember is that while the genre may be different you are for the most part dealing with human issues, such as war, peace, crime, murder, rape, government, religion, and so on.

Do You Help People Who write in Different Genres?

At TR Writing Services we are there to help you take your manuscript from rough draft to published book. Do we accept all genres?

No.

For example, we will accept books that have sex and violence in them. My own books have those elements. But there is a right way and wrong way to involve them in your book. If your book uses blasphemy, curse words, etc. then we will deem it unacceptable.

Another example is violence. Is it too graphic? Although my books are aimed at adults, that doesn’t mean that excessive and graphic violence is acceptable.

There are other genre’s that we won’t look at, but I’d suggest you contact us at marketing@TR-IndBkstore.com and we will, if interested, request your manuscript. If we reject it, we return the manuscript via email.

For information on TR Writing Services (“we edit, proof, and publish the book within you”)  contact us at marketing@tr-indbkstore.com. We have a Free booklet telling you about our services. And we are upfront on our prices (all are low).

VISIT MY AUTHOR’S PAGE TODAY: amazon.com/author/rfrederickriddle.

ARE YOU A BOOK REVIEWER? I am always looking for book reviews. Whether it is Perished The World That Was (Book One), World of Noah and the Ark (Book Two), World of Shem (Book Three), World of Abraham (Book Four) and World of Jacob (Book Five). Or Death Ship (Book One), Pauline A New Home (Book Two), Task Force Hunter (Book Three), Black Death (Book Four), Rise of I.C.E.S. (Book Five),  or Battle at Proxima Centauri. I value your reviews.

And now we add to the list. You may review Tess Riddle’s novel Haney Place Secrets simply by following the steps below.

If you would like to review any of these books contact me at marketing@tr-indbkstore.com with the subject line indicating that desire. An example of an appropriate subject line would be: ‘Seek to review [book Title].’ In the email make sure to indicate your email address, your name, and the choice of copy (PDF or Epub).

 – – – – – – –

R Frederick Riddle is the Editor of TR Writing Services providing help to struggling and/or new authors to write and publish their books. In addition, he is the author of several books and is best known for Christian Historical and Speculative Fiction. For more information on him or his books visit his Amazon Authors Page. He is also co-founder and Vice President of T&R Independent Books where his books are featured. To reply to any blog you have the option of commenting on a blog and/or sending an email to marketing@tr-indbkstore.com. You may also be interested in his Facebook page at RFrederickRiddlesWorld.

Ron’s Tip of the Day When the Unexpected Happens

Welcome to Ron’s Tip of the Day. Throughout the week I will share a tip with you. This is an experiment in microblogging. Let me know how I’m doing. Today I am looking at When the Unexpected Happens.

Today started somewhat typical. It began by getting cleaned and dressed, followed by breakfast and devotions. Then my wife wanted to go shopping.

That was the first bump, but when you’ve been married a while (39 years in September) you expect the unexpected. So I adjusted on the fly and we went shopping.

After returning home, I gathered my computer and business papers and headed for the library where I usually spend 2 – 4 hours daily (M – F). We don’t have cable (chose to go without), so I use the Library’s Wi-Fi, but today the Wi-Fi is down.

Bummer!

So, I did what any author businessman would do, I gathered my computer and business papers and went to McDonald’s. That is where I am as I write this blog.

Tip of the Day

Don’t let the unexpected upset your day. If you look hard enough you can find a solution. This was a minor bump in the road, sometimes you get major bumps. But be proactive and keep moving on.

For information on TR Writing Services (“we edit, proof, and publish the book within you”)  contact us at marketing@tr-indbkstore.com. Our Free booklet tells you about our services. And we are upfront on our prices (all are low).

VISIT MY AUTHOR’S PAGE TODAY: amazon.com/author/rfrederickriddle.

ARE YOU A BOOK REVIEWER? I am always looking for book reviews for R. Frederick Riddle and Tess Riddle books. I value your reviews.

If you would like to review our books contact me at marketing@tr-indbkstore.com with the subject line indicating that desire. An example of an appropriate subject line would be: ‘Seek to review [book Title].’ In the email make sure to indicate your email address, your name, and the choice of copy (PDF or Epub).

 – – – – – – –

R Frederick Riddle is the Editor of TR Writing Services providing help to struggling and/or new authors to write and publish their books. In addition, he is best known for Christian Historical and Speculative Fiction. He is also co-founder and Vice President of T&R Independent Books where his books are featured. To reply to any blog you have the option of commenting on a blog and/or sending an email to marketing@tr-indbkstore.com. You may also be interested in his Facebook page at RFrederickRiddlesWorld.

Ron’s Tuesday’s Tip: Taking the First Step

Welcome to Ron’s Tuesday’s Tip. Every Tuesday I will share a tip with you. This week I am looking at Taking the First Step.

The First Step

Last week I wrote about a new author, my wife. But today I want to write perhaps about you.

You read about someone like Tess and you think, I could do that? But you don’t.

Then you read the book, smile, and think, I’d like to write a book like that. But you don’t.

Life continues on and one day you think, I wish I’d written a book. But you didn’t.

What’s wrong with the above. It’s simple. You didn’t take the first step.

What is the First Step?

Tess Riddle had gone to college not to be a writer, but to seek skills she could use on the job. But the Entrance Exam showed she had writing skills. Plus, her English professors encouraged her to write. But I can truthfully say that I don’t recall her ever saying she wanted to be a writer.

When the desire to write began I’m not sure. Perhaps I’ll ask her in an interview someday. But she had not yet taken the first step.

Again, What is the First Step?

Essentially the first step is making a commitment. Thinking about writing a book doesn’t get a book written, but if you commit yourself to something there is a better chance of it happening.

Think of a baby. They aren’t born walking. They have to commit themselves. In their case the mother and father want to see them walk, so they encourage them, assist them, and put them in positions where that first step will take place. The parents make the initial commitment.

The baby doesn’t start off thinking I want to walk. Somewhere along the way the parents’ dream becomes their dream and purpose.

Writing is similar.

My wife was told she had the tools to write, but she didn’t start writing. The burdens of life got in the way. But she still had the tools and as time went on the concept of a story.

One day I learned of her secret desire to write. And I encouraged her. Did I know how well she could write? No. As her husband I loved her and believed in her, so I encouraged her.

But it wasn’t until she purposed in her heart and to God to write the book that she really took that first step.

But it was more than a purpose

Tess (aka Teresa) had to do more than think about writing. She had to do more than come up with a plot. She had to do more than say, I’m going to write.

The truth is that all of us have things we want to do. But we don’t take that first step. She could have given up when we moved down here to sunny Florida to take care of her mother. Yes she was delayed, but the secret burned within her.

She could have given up when I suffered a heart attack shortly after she declared her desire to write. Even though I encouraged her, she could see difficulties at least for the short term. She had a husband to care for. But the dream still burned within.

Over the years, she’s struggled to get that first book on paper. But life kept getting in the way.  But finally one day, she committed herself to writing a book. She made a commitment to herself and to God that she would write. Making a commitment to God is very difficult to do, but also very motivating.

She had taken the first step.

Or did she?

I ask that question because we really haven’t defined the first step yet. I did mention commitment, but there’s more.

Commitment to do something takes you only so far. Part of commitment is to actually start writing. With life constantly demanding her attention, it was difficult and frustrating. Add to that the advice coming at her from me and others.

But the day came when she started writing. Not to please me nor others. And I don’t believe it was to please herself. The day came when she believed that God wanted her to write. That was a major step.

But that still wasn’t the first step.

Commitment means not letting obstacles stop you

I’ve already mentioned the obstacles she faced. But here is where she finally made the first step. She sought God’s will, kept writing, and overcame the obstacles. In retrospect the fact that she wrote a first draft of the book was the first step.

It is relatively easy to write the first few chapters but persevering and finishing the book takes a lot of faith, grit, and pushing on. She faced a constant battle that threatened to stop her, but she continued on and finally was able to deliver to me the first draft.

That was when she took the first step.

What I’m trying to say, is that when that baby took his or her first step it wasn’t really the first step. But when that baby began walking ever so wobbly, falling, and getting back up that was the first step. And then the baby started adding things like running.

As a writer you will face obstacles. If you stop because of them, you haven’t really taken that first step. But when you persevere and complete that first rough draft, you’ve proven to yourself you can do it.

Sure, there is a lot of work before the first draft becomes a published work. But now your confidence starts growing and you can take the second, third, fourth, and more steps!

Now she was ready to get the help she needed to become a published author. And that is when I could really help her through TR Writing Services.

For information on TR Writing Services (“we edit, proof, and publish the book within you”)  contact us at marketing@tr-indbkstore.com. We have a Free booklet telling you about our services. And we are upfront on our prices (all are low).

VISIT MY AUTHOR’S PAGE TODAY: amazon.com/author/rfrederickriddle.

ARE YOU A BOOK REVIEWER? I am always looking for book reviews. Whether it is Perished The World That Was (Book One), World of Noah and the Ark (Book Two), World of Shem (Book Three), World of Abraham (Book Four), World of Jacob (Book Five) or Death Ship (Book One), Pauline A New Home (Book Two), Task Force Hunter (Book Three), Black Death (Book Four), Rise of I.C.E.S. (Book Five),  or Battle at Proxima Centauri. I value your reviews.

And now we add to the list. You may review Tess Riddle’s novel Haney Place Secrets simply by following the steps below.

If you would like to review any of these books contact me at marketing@tr-indbkstore.com with the subject line indicating that desire. An example of an appropriate subject line would be: ‘Seek to review [book Title].’ In the email make sure to indicate your email address, your name, and the choice of copy (PDF or Epub).

 – – – – – – –

R Frederick Riddle is the Editor of TR Writing Services providing help to struggling and/or new authors to write and publish their books. In addition, he is the author of several books and is best known for Christian Historical and Speculative Fiction. For more information on him or his books visit his Amazon Authors Page. He is also co-founder and Vice President of T&R Independent Books where his books are featured. To reply to any blog you have the option of commenting on a blog and/or sending an email to marketing@tr-indbkstore.com. You may also be interested in his Facebook page at RFrederickRiddlesWorld.

Ron’s Tuesday’s Tip: A New Author on the Block

Welcome to Ron’s Tuesday’s Tip. Every Tuesday I will share a tip with you. This week I am looking at A New Author on the Block.

I’m taking a little break from my usual tips. Instead I wish to talk about a brand-new author who just debut her first novel. Her name is Tess Riddle and I admit right up front that I’m biased (she’s my wife). Hopefully soon she will allow me to interview her for this blog.

Who is She?

Tess Riddle’s everyday name is Teresa Riddle. As such she is a Christian, Active Church member, Housewife, President of our publishing company (T&R Independent Books), and cancer fighter.

Among her many skills is that of a secretary, as she worked many years in the corporate world as a secretary. She can be tough, as some callers learned when they called the office and used profanity. She can be very efficient and capable as her bosses learned and appreciated.

Teresa is the wife of Ronald Riddle (that’s me) and they live in Port Charlotte, Florida.

What is the Name of her Book?

But as Tess Riddle she is the author of Haney Place Secrets which is book one of the Rita Honeycutt series. This novel involves teenage Rita Honeycutt with a nose for mystery (her brothers would probably call her nosey).

She is already working on book two. Her vision for the series appears to be Rita solving mysteries not only in her hometown, but anywhere Tess’s imagination takes her.

Tell Us More About the Book

Haney Place Secrets is a novel not only involving a teenage girl, but it involves her twin brothers (also teens), and her teen friends. It is a novel aimed at the preteen and teen aged readers. However, adults will enjoy this book as well.

The plot involves the news that the Haney Place house, deeded to the town of Terryville, is going to be sold to a mysterious buyer. Rita and company are asked to go into the house and pack up whatever they find. In the process of this job they discover another mystery that leads them deeper into the Haney Place and may put them in danger!

Although I am biased, I can say with all honesty that I enjoyed the story. I spent a lot of time editing and preparing the book for publication and have come away from that experience with profound respect for Tess Riddle’s writing skill. I fully expect more books.

Where Can We Get Her Book?

Glad you asked. We’ve made it easy for people. You can simply go to our website at TR-WritingServices.com/catalog and click on ‘mystery’. There you will find the book with a link to her Amazon page.

Or if you don’t want to do that, you can always go to her Amazon Author Page which is at amazon.com/author/tessriddle. You can click on the picture or title and it will go to the book’s detail page. There you’ll find links to the paperback and the eBook.

We are also looking at local marketing where we can sell the books directly or through local bookstores. This is something we are taking a serious look at and will let you know more about in the future.

Does She have a Blog?

At this time she does not. However, I will certainly encourage her to write articles for my blog. As mentioned above, I plan on doing an interview with her about the book. I think you’ll discover more about her and perhaps a hint at the future.

Our business does have a YouTube channel and we already have a short reveal about her new book. She has indicated that another YouTube video may be in her future.

Did She Use TR-Writing Services?

In a manner of speaking she made thorough use of our services. As editor of the service I read, offered advice, checked grammar and spelling, and generally performed all the functions that I would do for any of our clients. So the answer is yes.

She is listed as a client and has her own page (a free service we provide to all clients who’ve published through us which they can use to promote their books). This page will include all future books she writes.

For information on TR Writing Services (“we edit, proof, and publish the book within you”)  contact us at marketing@tr-indbkstore.com. We have a Free booklet telling you about our services. And we are upfront on our prices (all are low).

VISIT MY AUTHOR’S PAGE TODAY: amazon.com/author/rfrederickriddle.

ARE YOU A BOOK REVIEWER? I am always looking for book reviews. Whether it is Perished The World That Was (Book One), World of Noah and the Ark (Book Two), World of Shem (Book Three), World of Abraham (Book Four) or Death Ship (Book One), Pauline A New Home (Book Two), Task Force Hunter (Book Three), Black Death (Book Four), Rise of I.C.E.S. (Book Five),  or Battle at Proxima Centauri. I value your reviews.

And now we add to the list. You may review Tess Riddle’s novel Haney Place Secrets simply by following the steps below.

If you would like to review any of these books contact me at marketing@tr-indbkstore.com with the subject line indicating that desire. An example of an appropriate subject line would be: ‘Seek to review [book Title].’ In the email make sure to indicate your email address, your name, and the choice of copy (PDF or Epub).

 – – – – – – –

R Frederick Riddle is the Editor of TR Writing Services providing help to struggling and/or new authors to write and publish their books. In addition, he is the author of several books and is best known for Christian Historical and Speculative Fiction. For more information on him or his books visit his Amazon Authors Page. He is also co-founder and Vice President of T&R Independent Books where his books are featured. To reply to any blog you have the option of commenting on a blog and/or sending an email to marketing@tr-indbkstore.com. You may also be interested in his Facebook page at RFrederickRiddlesWorld.

Ron’s Tuesday’s Tip: Your Tools

Welcome to Ron’s Tuesday’s Tip. Every Tuesday I will share a tip with you. This week I am looking at Your Tools.

Last week we looked at your workplace, today let’s consider some of the tools you’ll need to write. So let’s take a look.

Your Computer

Some people prefer tablets, etc. over a desktop, but I use a desktop. Whatever you use you need a computer that is relatively new and should be running Windows 10. This will enable you to access the Internet and do research. Not only research, but to publish and market your book. And then there is having an email account.

So your computer is a very important tool. You don’t need all the bells and whistles, but you do need a computer that will handle your needs. So, investigate before buying. There are various software tools that you might consider (see below).

I’m not going to get into the various computers and their characteristics. Every person has their own preferences. So my advice is for you to look for a computing device that best fits your lifestyle and your needs as a writer.

When buying a computer I always recommend a middle of the road (price) computer. Why? Because today’s top of the line computer will be tomorrow’s middle of the road computer. Computers age rapidly.

Buy a computer that meets your needs and doesn’t break your budget. For example, some people buy computers for gaming purposes. But as a writer you don’t need gaming tools, you want a computer that enables you to be a proficient writer.

Your Software

Some of the software tools you need are:

Wordprocessor (I use Word)PDF program (I use Adobe Acrobat DC)eBook Converter (I use Kindle Create)Picture editor (I use Paint 3d or Photos)

There are other tools that you may need, or you may prefer Word Perfect over Word or you might like Open Office. I’m not pointing you to a brand, but to an overall need. In other words, you need to take the time to do your own research and find out what you want.

Your Printer

I used an HP printer. There are a variety of them plus there are others on the market. But you want a printer that enables you to communicate with your printer so you can scan documents, etc. into the computer. You will also need a computer to print out documents, etc. from your computer.

If that isn’t enough, you may need fax ability.

When buying a printer, I suggest getting one that has most, if not all, the features you need. I’ve already mentioned scanning and faxing. But these are practically standard. Pay attention to what features they have available.

And remember that while salespeople are helpful, they are often directed to push a certain product. Don’t let them talk you into something you don’t need. And that advice is good for both the computer and the printer.

Your Dictionary

The dictionary is very important to the writer. Depending on the genre you write in you might have a modern dictionary and an older one. For example, if you are writing a novel that takes place in the 19th century, it might be helpful having a 19th century dictionary or at least a dictionary with older terms in it.

I use the dictionary when I’m writing and when I’m editing. You don’t want misspelled words or words that have the wrong meaning.

Your Thesaurus

The Thesaurus is often very helpful. It helps you in looking up similar words to the ones you are currently using. It is often a good idea not to repeat the same words constantly. If you can find words that mean the same thing it gives your text a little more vibrancy.

Your Library

I believe in research. Having your own personal library often provides you with needed material that helps you better understand a subject for your book. Maybe a critical weapon, a graving tool, or some other item that fits into your story. How about a How To book that covers something you’re writing about?

The list can get quite long. The important thing I want you to get out of all this is that you need to surround yourself with all the tools you can get. You don’t have to reinvent the wheel, take advantage of the tools that enable you to put forth an excellent book.

I recommend buying books (hardcover or softcover) and downloading from the Internet. Aside from those two ideas, I often copy information from the internet and paste it into a new document in Word. I find it helpful not only for the story, but in marketing and publishing.

For information on TR Writing Services (“we edit, proof, and publish the book within you”)  contact us at marketing@tr-indbkstore.com. We have a Free booklet telling you about our services. And we are upfront on our prices (all are low).

VISIT MY AUTHOR’S PAGE TODAY: amazon.com/author/rfrederickriddle.

ARE YOU A BOOK REVIEWER? I am always looking for book reviews. Whether it is Perished The World That Was (Book One), World of Noah and the Ark (Book Two), World of Shem (Book Three), World of Abraham (Book Four) or Death Ship (Book One), Pauline A New Home (Book Two), Task Force Hunter (Book Three), Black Death (Book Four), Rise of I.C.E.S. (Book Five),  or Battle at Proxima Centauri. I value your reviews.

If you would like to review any of these books contact me at marketing@tr-indbkstore.com with the subject line indicating that desire. An example of an appropriate subject line would be: ‘Seek to review [book Title].’ In the email make sure to indicate your email address, your name, and the choice of copy (PDF or Epub).

 – – – – – – –

R Frederick Riddle is the Editor of TR Writing Services providing help to struggling and/or new authors to write and publish their books. In addition, he is the author of several books and is best known for Christian Historical and Speculative Fiction. For more information on him or his books visit his Amazon Authors Page. He is also co-founder and Vice President of T&R Independent Books where his books are featured. To reply to any blog you have the option of commenting on a blog and/or sending an email to marketing@tr-indbkstore.com. You may also be interested in his Facebook page at RFrederickRiddlesWorld.

Friday News : Moving On

Welcome to Friday News. Every Friday I share news with you; primarily about writing and sometimes about life in general. This week it is about:Moving On.

Okay, the Verdict Is?

President Donald Trump has been declared Not Guilty of an Impeachable offense. What does that mean?

It means his actions did not rise to the high level demanded by our Founding Fathers. Whenever trying to understand the Constitution you must always go back to the Founding Fathers and find out from them their understanding. Part of the troubles in Washington D.C. comes from the fact most Representatives and Senators are lawyers and they have been taught that the Constitution is a “living Document” to be interpreted according to modern mores. This has led to confusion and contrary understandings to the original meanings.

In my opinion, maybe we should ban lawyers from running for office. Not going to happen but putting commonsense minded people in office surely would work better than the current mess.

What Now?

Well, commonsense suggests we move on and that our government Representatives and Senators do what they were elected to do.

But alas, commonsense rarely rules in the running of our government. The ink wasn’t even dry on the Acquittal document and the Democrats were already planning to continue to go after the President! Since the day Trump announced he was running for President the Democrats targeted him. It would almost seem like they were running scared!

So prepare yourselves folks. If you reelect these Democrats they intend to find or, more likely, create another controversy leading to impeachment. They don’t care how much it costs, how many lives are ruined, or how badly they trash the Constitution.

What Will President Trump Do?

I don’t pretend to read his mind or have a knowledge of his thinking, but I am observant, and I think I have an understanding of who he is. So here is my take.

I believe he will go forth confidently and pursue the following:

Less government intrusion into people’s economic livesGreater opportunity zones in underserved areasA stronger militarySpace research and explorationBetter trade agreements around the world, including ChinaA MidEast agreement that protects Israel…and more

In other words, he will continue to listen to the people, the citizens of the United States, and work to get his views enacted into law or at least Presidential decree.

Will Trump Always Espouse Conservative Values?

I am a conservative first, a support of Trump second. And no, he hasn’t always supported Conservative views and I don’t expect to see him change. Most people tend to think he is a Conservative. I think a better tag should be Populist. Populism can be either Left or Right. So in my view, Trump is primarily a Populist of the Right, but there are times where his views may lean left. Look at the results of his first three years. That is what you can expect from him and why I will vote for him.

Will He Be Reelected?

This is my opinion: President Donald Trump will likely be reelected in a landslide. Not only because of his accomplishments, but because of the Democrats lack of accomplishments and their total lack of regard for the Constitution, Taxpayer money, and the people they are supposed to be serving. This whole impeachment proceeding had nothing to do with the President’s actions and everything to do with their failure to deliver in 2016.

It’s going to be a long summer and a longer next four years for them.

What About the Blue Wave?

What Blue Wave? In 2018 they claimed a Blue Wave, but if you’ve been around for very long you know that Midterm Elections usually means the House, or in rare occasions the Senate, changes hands and the Opposition Party is the winner.

Did the Blue Wave change that? No. The Democrats took over the House and the move to impeach the President took over. The problem is that the Democrats have convinced themselves that they, and they alone, know what’s best for the country. And you better not get in their way!

A true Blue Wave would have turned both the House and the Senate over to the Democrats. They never came close!

Moving ON!

We the people, the taxpayers, deserve better than childish behavior on the Left. I grew up in a time when the Democrats and the Republicans had their issues with one another, but they learned to set that aside and work out compromises. That day has passed, and I don’t know if it will ever return.

However, there is hope. God has used President Trump much like He used Old Testament leaders. Then it was to discipline and protect His people the Jews. Today God is still protecting the Jews, but He is also protecting Christians. I see a glimpse here and there of a national revival coming. Perhaps it is wishful thinking, but I’m praying for it. And it will only come if we Christians submit to God, pray for revival, and walk according to His will. And it will begin within each of us!

For information on TR Writing Services (“we edit, proof, and publish the book within you”)  contact us at marketing@tr-indbkstore.com. We have a Free booklet telling you about our services. And we are upfront on our prices (all are low).

VISIT MY AUTHOR’S PAGE TODAY: amazon.com/author/rfrederickriddle.

ARE YOU A BOOK REVIEWER? I am always looking for book reviews. Whether it is Perished The World That Was (Book One), World of Noah and the Ark (Book Two), World of Shem (Book Three), World of Abraham (Book Four) or Death Ship (Book One), Pauline A New Home (Book Two), Task Force Hunter (Book Three), Black Death (Book Four), Rise of I.C.E.S. (Book Five),  or Battle at Proxima Centauri (Book Six). I value your reviews.

If you would like to review any of these books contact me at marketing@tr-indbkstore.com with the subject line indicating that desire. An example of an appropriate subject line would be: ‘Seek to review [book Title].’ In the email make sure to indicate your email address, your name, and the choice of copy (PDF or Epub).

 – – – – – – –

R Frederick Riddle is the Editor of TR Writing Services providing help to struggling and/or new authors to write and publish their books. In addition, he is the author of several books and is best known for Christian Historical and Speculative Fiction. For more information on him or his books visit his Amazon Authors Page. He is also co-founder and Vice President of T&R Independent Books where his books are featured. To reply to any blog you have the option of commenting on a blog and/or sending an email to marketing@tr-indbkstore.com. You may also be interested in his Facebook page at RFrederickRiddlesWorld.

Ron’s Tuesday’s Tip: Your Workplace

Welcome to Ron’s Tuesday’s Tip. Every Tuesday I will share a tip with you. This week I am looking at Your Website.

If you have already been writing for a while you know how important your workspace needs to be for optimal results. This includes the table/desk, the chair, location of resources, and more. So let’s take a look.

The Room

The location and size of the room will vary from author to author. My wife prefers an open room, while I have a small, well-define room. Both of us have our desks in front of a window. Teresa’s files are in different cabinets not necessarily adjoining each other, while I used a combination of cabinets and bookshelves in close proximity to me.

Both of us like our setups and are able to function well. This is important. Whatever setup you choose, it needs to be conducive to your being able to think, research, and write. My suggestion is for you to design it your way even if others may criticize. You are the one who will be spending a lot of time there!

One other note, sometimes Teresa likes to move into the living room and sit at the table. This gives her a break from the norm while still enabling her to perform her tasks.

The Table/Desk

Once again personal preferences are dominate. Teresa uses a computer desk while I use a computer table. She tends to spread paperwork out, I like things a little tighter.

But once again our own wants and needs strongly influence how it is done. As for how the table/desk is set up, both of us use laptops on the surface. I have a phone beside me, she doesn’t (except when in the living room).

Never place your laptop on your lap. This is because you may be blocking air vents. Buy yourself a lap desk (there are several).

The Chair

Both of us prefer task chairs, but I have seen others who use Executive Chairs. The key here is that you want a chair that is comfortable, but also helps you maintain good posture. This last is important because slouching in your chair cuts off oxygen and causes you to get sleepy. It is very hard to write with your eyes closed!

Another note regarding sitting with a laptop on your lap even with a lap desk. There are issues with back strain, eye strain, etc. that are affected by sitting with a laptop.

You’ll note that Snoopy (see picture) is sitting on the doghouse. This is not recommended as you it may cause poor posture which as noted about can affect how alert you are.

Location of Resources

As mentioned before I use my cabinets and bookshelves as the “walls” of my office. This keeps everything close by, easy to reach. Teresa has her resources spread out, but that seems to work for her.

The important thing is that it be helpful to your overall work.

The Resources

What do I mean by resources? Well, this covers:

books on writingbooks on the Bible (if writing Biblical books)books on marketingfinancial recordspublishing informationResearch materialand more

Your resources will differ from ours, but you will have a need for them and you will need to keep them somewhere safe and easily accessible.

You need to also consider such factors as lighting, storage (paper, ink, incoming/outgoing, and more).

For information on TR Writing Services (“we edit, proof, and publish the book within you”)  contact us at marketing@tr-indbkstore.com. We have a Free booklet telling you about our services. And we are upfront on our prices (all are low).

VISIT MY AUTHOR’S PAGE TODAY: amazon.com/author/rfrederickriddle.

ARE YOU A BOOK REVIEWER? I am always looking for book reviews. Whether it is Perished The World That Was (Book One), World of Noah and the Ark (Book Two), World of Shem (Book Three), World of Abraham (Book Four) or Death Ship (Book One), Pauline A New Home (Book Two), Task Force Hunter (Book Three), Black Death (Book Four), Rise of I.C.E.S. (Book Five),  or Battle at Proxima Centauri. I value your reviews.

If you would like to review any of these books contact me at marketing@tr-indbkstore.com with the subject line indicating that desire. An example of an appropriate subject line would be: ‘Seek to review [book Title].’ In the email make sure to indicate your email address, your name, and the choice of copy (PDF or Epub).

 – – – – – – –

R Frederick Riddle is the Editor of TR Writing Services providing help to struggling and/or new authors to write and publish their books. In addition, he is the author of several books and is best known for Christian Historical and Speculative Fiction. For more information on him or his books visit his Amazon Authors Page. He is also co-founder and Vice President of T&R Independent Books where his books are featured. To reply to any blog you have the option of commenting on a blog and/or sending an email to marketing@tr-indbkstore.com. You may also be interested in his Facebook page at RFrederickRiddlesWorld.

Ron’s Tuesday’s Tip: Limited Distribution

Welcome to Ron’s Tuesday’s Tip. Every Tuesday I will share a tip with you. This week I am talking about Limited Distribution.

The Topic

Recently I received a question from a visitor to my website. The lady in question desired to write her memoir and only have limited distribution. Now this may sound odd, but it is not that odd. In fact, my first client that I helped wasn’t interested in marketing her book. She was however open to letting others buy it if they so desired and that’s how she was set up.

But my point is that not everybody who has a story to write is interested in selling a lot of books. In the case of this lady it was to publish a memoir. She didn’t go into great detail, but I gathered that she wanted only a certain number of copies to give out to friends and relatives.

And that is perfectly understandable and okay!

So What Did I Tell Her?

Since she contacted us, I gave the answer in relation to our services. Other services may not have the ability to meet her needs, we do. So I communicated that to her.

So, what is My Answer?

First, she wanted to know if it was possible to only print a few copies for herself. The answer to that is ‘Yes’.

Here’s copy of my entire answer:

Thank you for your question which I will attempt to answer.

There is a way for you to do this.

The book could go through the entire process of creation, editing, proofing, and publishing. Once published, you could buy author’s copies for yourself which you can give away or sell (no royalties). After you get your copies, then you unpublish the book. I’ve never seen this happen before, but I see no reason why you can’t do it. The great thing about Kindle (the platform we use) is that you can republish later if you so desire.

If you follow the above procedure, then you would have to republish to buy additional copies. Then unpublish again. This would be advantageous if later you wanted to revise or update your book.

I would be delighted to discuss this in greater detail. Send an email to marketing@tr-indbkstore.com and refer to your memoir or interest in TR Writing Services. Remind me that we’ve already been in contact.

Now, let me go through this in greater detail.

The Process

In my message I mentioned creation, editing, proofing, and then publishing.

Creation is the first draft. The author is always the author in our system. So even as we go through the editing process the author, in most cases, has final say.

Editing is the process whereby we at TR Writing Services read the book looking for errors, such as: spelling, grammar, Clarity, and Conciseness. We have tools to help us do that, but the tools are based on technical issues. Our goal is always to produce a book that is an expression of the author’s will, style, etc.

There are times when these technical issues are paramount, but we believe that the author has his/her own goals in mind. So, while there may be an issue that needs to be addressed, the author may want to leave it as is.

An example of this would be grammar. Perhaps the grammar is relative to where the author grew up or where the scene is taking place or the education of the character speaking. These do not necessarily have to be grammatically correct. However, if there is such an overriding situation, you want to be consistent.

Once Published

At the time of publishing the author can get author’s copies. These are normally available for printing costs. So, once the book is published you should buy as many author’s copies as you desire. Then after the book has gone live, simply unpublish.

These author’s copies can be given away or sold. Just remember there are no royalties.

Post Ordering

Not really addressed in the letter other than you can republish and unpublish your book. This enables you to order new books (up to 999 per order) if the book is ‘live’. Once the order is completed you can unpublish.

Republishing

Republishing is easy. You go to your KDP Bookshelf where all your books will be shown. Go to the book in question where you will see an ellipsis (to the right). Click on that and click on Republish. (The ellipsis also enables you to perform other functions.)

Revising and Updating Book

With most publishers you must resubmit a book (and possibly pay) to update the book and have it republished. But KDP is your personal printing service, if you will.

Let’s say you use our service and publish the book. Later you want to update, do you need to go through us? NO! You can if you want to. And I would recommend it if the update is significant or perhaps you need to publish under a new title. But as a rule, you can do it yourself.

At this time, you would have your own KDP account which would allow you to update and republish your book as often as you want. I have used this ability to correct and to add material to my books.

Technically, you don’t have to unpublish the current book until the newly updated version is ready to go. This is awesome!

Discussing

There are many details in publishing a book. Since we want our authors to succeed, we want to know more about them and their book. That way we can serve them much better. It also gives the authors a chance to learn more about us. It is a win-win for everyone.

For information on TR Writing Services (“we edit, proof, and publish the book within you”)  contact us at marketing@tr-indbkstore.com. We have a Free booklet telling you about our services. And we are upfront on our prices (all are low).

VISIT MY AUTHOR’S PAGE TODAY: amazon.com/author/rfrederickriddle.

ARE YOU A BOOK REVIEWER? I am always looking for book reviews. Whether it is Perished The World That Was (Book One), World of Noah and the Ark (Book Two), World of Shem (Book Three), World of Abraham (Book Four) or Death Ship (Book One), Pauline A New Home (Book Two), Task Force Hunter (Book Three), Black Death (Book Four), Rise of I.C.E.S. (Book Five),  or Battle at Proxima Centauri. I value your reviews.

If you would like to review any of these books contact me at marketing@tr-indbkstore.com with the subject line indicating that desire. An example of an appropriate subject line would be: ‘Seek to review [book Title].’ In the email make sure to indicate your email address, your name, and the choice of copy (PDF or Epub).

 – – – – – – –

R Frederick Riddle is the Editor of TR Writing Services providing help to struggling and/or new authors to write and publish their books. In addition, he is the author of several books and is best known for Christian Historical and Speculative Fiction. For more information on him or his books visit his Amazon Authors Page. He is also co-founder and Vice President of T&R Independent Books where his books are featured. To reply to any blog you have the option of commenting on a blog and/or sending an email to marketing@tr-indbkstore.com. You may also be interested in his Facebook page at RFrederickRiddlesWorld.