R.B. Wood's Blog, page 24
April 21, 2013
Review: Cascade Effect (Book #2 of The Physics of Falling trilogy)
With everything that's been going on this past week in my hometown of Boston, I thought I'd post something good...actually...something GREAT.
CASCADE EFFECT (FIVE STARS)
In the second book of the Physics of Falling series, called Cascade Effect, author Leah Petersen builds on the origin story of Fighting Gravity and throws our newlyweds—Jake and Pete—into the political machinations and maneuvering of the Emperor’s court.
The future in Petersen’s universe has made peace with the subject of homosexuality, but still struggles with class as the elite of the Empire continue to scheme against the young couple. The intricate web woven here reminded me greatly of Robert Graves’ “I Claudius,” and is a testament to Petersen’s plotting and overall storytelling skills.
But even with the fluidity of loyalties and the complexity of the schemes afoot, Cascade Effect shines the most in scenes between Pete and Jake. The relationship is the cornerstone of the trilogy, and the depth in which Petersen explores how the men grow together and expand their family is touching. You will care what happens to these characters and the rollercoaster of emotions the reader will feel will leave you both exhausted and wanting the third book simultaneously.
Petersen’s growth as an author is obvious and I look forward to more from this young writer.
Links to both Book One (Fighting Gravity) and Book Two (Cascade Effect) below. Absolutely a pick-them-up-today situation!
Peace
April 17, 2013
A Note from a Bostonian
As a resident of Boston, I feel compelled to write about the tragic events that occurred at the Marathon on Patriot’s Day.
One of the many reasons I call Boston home is the extremely diverse population. You want intellectual stimulation? We have that. Jazz clubs? No problem. Passionate professional sports teams and their passionate fans? We have loads of them. You want to find a Chinese New Year party or a Passover celebration? How about Ramadan or Diwali? My point is all are welcome here.
I want to first thank everyone for their concerned calls, texts and postings—we are fine and love you all for your concern.
But many people are not fine. And three-- eight-year-old Martin Richard of Dorchester, MA; twenty-nine-year-old Krystle Campbell of Arlington, MA and Boston University student and Chinese National Lu Lingzi—will never be “fine” again.
As of this writing, over 80 people are still in hospital of the 170+ who were wounded as a result of this cowardly attack. There have been, and will continue to be surgeries, amputations and long rehabilitation paths ahead. But we have top tier medical centers and professionals
—so I’m confident that the best care possible will be provided to all the victims of this unspeakable act of violence.
Eventually, the perpetrators will be brought to justice. It’s too soon—and quite frankly dangerous—to speculate on who may have planted the devices.
In Massachusetts, we have a holiday called (as I mentioned earlier) "Patriot’s Day." It’s a 238-year old tradition dating back to the battles of Lexington and Concord. The day reminds us of what we have fought for and the patriotism that makes us who we are. It is a celebration steeped in American History and we will celebrate the 239th Patriot’s Day next year. And the Boston Marathon—the oldest marathon in the states-- will be run again as well.
We are Bostonians. We will argue with Yankee fans, scream at our politicians, enjoy a wicked-good Sam Adams with a "lobstah," and help those in need.
And we will do it all again tomorrow. Because that’s who we are.
We will mourn our dead, take care of our wounded. And when we find out who did this….
Well.
We’ll “take care” of them too.
April 12, 2013
The Word Count Episode 30 - Orange Karen
Welcome to Episode 30 of “The Word Count” podcast!
This is a very special ‘cast in which featured are teasers and stories from the ORANGE KAREN: TRIBUTE TO A WARRIOR anthology!
Pick it up TODAY at AMAZON
From the book’s jacket:
Get swept off your feet by an Internet romance
Escape from a war-torn encampment with a mystical healer/princess
Witness the murder of a NASCAR driver in the bathroom of local Home Depot
Join Miss Della and Chip as they find friendship and a new zest for life in their golden years
ORANGE KAREN: TRIBUTE TO A WARRIOR is a collection of 39 stories that explore the strength and resilience of the human spirit. From the monster in the basement to the teddy bear on a young woman's pillow, each story uses the colour orange as a thematic element, revealing the power of love, friendship, and the will to live.
Karen DeLabar is a friend, author, and mother. In June of 2012, she was stricken with Toxic Shock Syndrome.
One hundred percent of the proceeds from the anthology will be donated to Karen and her family, to assist with her medical expenses, and ongoing recovery.
Follow Karen's story at www.karendelabar.com, and learn more about the symptoms, effects, and treatment of Toxic Shock Syndrome at http://toxicshock.com
Acknowledgements by Christina Esdon
Foreword by JenniferGracen
Introduction by Karen DeLabar
But before we introduce our contributors from the anthology, a bit about the show:
What is The Word Count Podcast?
It is a free broadcast by writers for writers. Simply put, a theme for each show is announced via this site, Twitter and Facebook and writers are given a week or two to write AND RECORD their stories based on said theme.
Why?
Why not, says I. It’s a great way to practice writing and public speaking. It’s another way for writers to get their work “out there.” And I love to meet fellow authors and have a blast putting the show together. It’s just that simple.
Okay. Where can I find it?
You can listen to the latest podcast below, subscribe via iTunes or listen at the show’s site.
Direct: http://thewordcount.libsyn.com/webpage
iTunes (and remember, iTunes takes their sweet time in posting. If you don't see it yet, keep trying!): http://itunes.apple.com/podcast/the-word-count/id392550989
Our guests this week:
SPECIAL GUEST OF HONOR
Karen DeLabar
Karen DeLabar is currently a stay at home mom who is working on her paranormal romance/urban fantasy in between diaper changes and nap times. When not reminding her daughters not to lift their skirts up over their heads in public, she can be found on Twitter conversing with like-minded dreamers or knocking back a Scotch with a good book.
Website (To learn all about what she went through and to meet the woman herself):
Our Author Guests:
D. Savannah George
D. Savannah George is a proud member of #TeamOrange and believes strongly in the power of community and the written word. She has been writing since she could hold a pen (or crayon, she can’t remember which) and is a multi-disciplinary artist – she also paints, crochets, takes photographs, and makes beaded jewelry, bookmarks, and notecards. She also serves as an editor for authors and several small publishers. D. Savannah currently lives in Georgia – either on the coast or in the big city of Atlanta – with her husband, dog, turtle, two cats, and a ton of art and art supplies.
http://www.dsavannah.com/readable/novel_excerpt.html
website: http://www.dsavannah.com
blog: http://www.dsavannah.com/blog/
twitter: http://www.twitter.com/davannahcreate
facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dsavannahcreative
online art store: http://www.dsavannahcreative.artfire.com
goodreads: www.goodreads.com/author/show/6883909.D_Savannah_George
Gareth S. Young
Gareth S. Young was born and raised in Scotland. He packed up his kilt and moved to the United States and now does much the same as he did in Scotland only people think his accent is way cooler.
In 2010, he self-published his first full length story, a mystery/suspense novel called Monsters. In April 2013, he will have his first short story published in the "Orange Karen" anthology. In the meantime he is hard at work on his second novel, Persephone, which he intends on querying to agents.
Website (blog): http://1000trillionsuns.blogspot.com/
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/GarethSYoungAuthor
Twitter: @Spartagus
Valerie Haight
Valerie Haight is a short story writer and contemporary suspense and romance novelist. She is a member of Ozarks Writer’s League through College of the Ozarks in Hollister, MO where she placed first in the 2012 OWL Flash Fiction Contest.
Her first novella, HAPPENSTANCE, released December 13, 2012 from Turquoise Morning Press. Her short story, MAGNOLIA BRIDES, was chosen for Turquoise Morning Press’s “The Wedding Day Collection Anthology” coming in June of this year.
Blog: http://thewriteoneval.blogspot.com
Facebook author page: facebook.com/vhaightauthor
Twitter: @Valeriebrbr
Andrew F. Butters
Andrew F. Butters lives in Cambridge, Ontario with his wife and two children. He loves hockey, skiing, curling, golf, and all things Canadian. When not on daddy duty, he can be found working for a software company as a project manager, singing as part of the band Argyle Speedo, taking pictures of things that look like letters for Andrew’s Alphabet, blogging at Potato Chip Math, and writing his first novel.
Website: http://potatochipmath.com
Facebook: http://facebook.com/authorandrewbutters
Twitter: @andrewbutters
Stephanie Fuller
Stephanie Fuller is an avid crafter (crochet and scrapbooking) and the creator of The Book Hipster Blog. She resides in the Chicagoland area with her husband and daughter. She has no published works to date, but has big dreams. This is only the beginning.
Website Links: Blog - thebookhipster.com
Facebook Page - http://www.facebook.com/TheBookHipster
Twitter: @ImaFuller
Alex Kimmel
From his website:
“I grew up in Los Angeles, California during those heady days when kids could still trick-or-treat outside instead of walking around from store to store inside the sterile safety of shopping malls. My friends and I could run and play without any thought of being shot or kidnapped leaving riderless skateboards spinning their lonely wheels.
Though I grew up in that relatively safe environment, the nightmares still came to find me every night. Pulling the covers over my head, I welcomed them. I enjoyed reading stories of monsters and ghosts lurking in the shadows. I loved the terror and suspense of good scary movies. Constantly daydreaming that something horrible awaited me around every street corner of this beautifully manicured suburban neighborhood.
When I wasn’t reading I played music. It took over my life, though my love affair with words never strayed far from my fingers. Writing and performing provided me with the keys to an education and the ability to see the world. With incredible luck, my musical journey brought me to a gig in a dingy Irish pub near the ocean in Santa Monica where I would meet my future wife.
Even then, the nightmares continued to flow through me. I scribbled down a poem here or wrote a song there. There were ideas for stories running through my head at all times of the day or night. Eventually my wife suggested I take writing fiction more seriously, since it featured so prominently as a creative outlet for me.
My first novel “the Key to everything” was released by, Booktrope Publishing in June of 2012. In the midst of building momentum and promotions for that, I continue to write down my nightmares and those mysterious sounds coming from just behind my shoulder.”
Website: http://www.alexkimmell.weebly.com
Twitter: @alexkimmellauth
John Moore Walker
John majored in Photography until he decided to tell stories instead of show them. He lives with his wife and animals in Austin, TX.
Website: johnmoorewalker.wordpress.com
Facebook: facebook.com/johnmoorewalker
Twitter: @johnmoorewalker
April 11, 2013
Release Day!
You may have noticed the Website has a bit of an orange tinge to it.
Well, I mentioned a while back that I’d had a short story accepted as a part of an anthology. But this book, out right now, is more than an anthology.
Much, much more.
Orange Karen: Tribute to a Warrior is a work of love, admiration and quite frankly of hope for a fellow author.
Karen DeLebar—called “Orange Karen” due to her red hair—is a writer as well. You have NO idea how good it is to use the present tense in that phrase.
See, less than a year ago she very nearly died from Toxic Shock Syndrome. To this day, no one knows what really caused it. But the one thing friends, family and the doctors agree on, is that Karen is still with us today because of her fighting spirit, her tenacity and her strong survival instinct.
In short—she’s a warrior woman.
She still feels the effects of her struggle to this day, and you can read the details of her recovery at her site.
Everyday, this mother of two gets stronger. Every day she survives.
But the medical bills are mounting. And that’s where our anthology comes into play.
Thirty-nine authors and many more individuals have donated their time and their talents to build a collection of stories all written to one theme.
Orange.
The writing is top tier. The editing vicious and brilliant. The artwork stunning. This is a book I’m honored to be a part of, and encourage you all to pick up.
Because not only are the stories worth your time, but 100% of the proceeds go to pay down the medical bills of a very brave, extremely well loved woman.
LINKS TO PURCHASE:
April 6, 2013
The Word Count episode 29 is now LIVE!
Welcome to Episode 29 of “The Word Count” podcast!
I really do need a seperate site for the podcast.
The show was a bit delayed (seems to be the story these days...ba-DUM-bum) due to family reasons, but we’re back on track now!
SIX authors, my friends. Count ‘em, SIX!
All are returning guests; all had fun with our them for the show:
That’s when the cameras all turned toward me…
But before we introduce our writers, a bit about the show:
What is The Word Count Podcast?
It is a free broadcast by writers for writers. Simply put, a theme for each show is announced via this site, Twitter and Facebook and writers are given a week or two to write AND RECORD their stories based on said theme.
Why?
Why not, says I. It’s a great way to practice writing and public speaking. It’s another way for writers to get their work “out there.” And I love to meet fellow authors and have a blast putting the show together. It’s just that simple.
Okay. Where can I find it?
You can listen to the latest podcast below, subscribe via iTunes or listen at the show’s site.
Direct: http://thewordcount.libsyn.com/webpage
iTunes (and remember, iTunes takes their sweet time in posting. If you don't see it yet, keep trying!): http://itunes.apple.com/podcast/the-word-count/id392550989
Our guests this week:
Bill Kirton “Turning the Tables”
Before taking early retirement to become a full-time writer, Bill Kirton was a lecturer in French at the University of Aberdeen. He’s written stage and radio plays, short stories, novels, skits and songs for revues, and five non-fiction books aimed at helping students with their writing and study skills. His five modern crime novels, Material Evidence, Rough Justice, The Darkness, Shadow Selves and Unsafe Acts are set in north east Scotland and his historical crime/romance novel, The Figurehead, is set in Aberdeen in 1840. The Darkness won the silver award in the mystery category of the 2011 Forward National Literature Awards and his spoof mystery, The Sparrow Conundrum, was the winner in the humor category.
He’s had radio plays broadcast by the BBC and the Australian BC. His short stories have appeared in many anthologies, including three of the CWA’s annual collections, and one was chosen by Maxim Jakubowski for his 2010 anthology of Best British Crime Stories.
Writing as Jack Rosse, he’s published a novel for children called The Loch Ewe Mystery.
He’s been a Royal Literary Fund Writing Fellow at universities in Aberdeen, Dundee and St Andrews.
Twitter: @carver22
Website: www.bill-kirton.co.uk
Blog: www.Livingwritingandotherstuff.blogspot.com
M. Holder “Sick”
M. Holder lives in Georgia with two guys, cats and a 8 year old girl. When not writing or attempting to catch up on The Walking Dead, she studies Taekwondo and trains for a 5k.
"Sick" was inspired by a response to a Tweet, a two-week cold and the smell of barbeque.
Tristan John S. “The Redemption of Robert Peppler”
Born the eldest of non-identical twins in Kent, Tristan's first ambition was to become a writer. Having trained as a Junior Exhibitioner at the Royal College of Music, London from 1995-2001 on a joint first study of violin and piano, he went up to Cambridge University where he graduated with an MA in Theology and Religious Studies. Since 2008 he has been a Qualified Secondary Teacher of Music and RE.
Tristan started writing poetry as a teenager and then turned his attention to prose, completing his first novel whilst still at University. He has written five plays, three of which have been produced and is now seeking publication for the first in a series of novels for young adults, The Lesser Evil.
Having left full time teaching, Tristan now works as a freelance musician, writer and private tutor. He is also an avid film maker and directed a feature film adaptation of the beloved book "Blitzed" by celebrated children's author, Robert Swindells in 2010, in collaboration with a local primary school.
Websites: www.tristanjohns.co.uk , www.inklingmedia.co.uk, Facebook = http://www.facebook.com/tristan.j.s.9
Angelica Dawson “Blue Moon House”
Angelica Dawson is the author of Blue Moon House, a Vampire BDSM novella, as well as contributor to the third Campus Sexpoits Anthology and the first Serviced Anthology. As an environmental consultant, she is no stranger to blood sucking hordes, but finds they are more often mosquitoes and black flies than vampires.
Site: http://angelicadawson.blogspot.com
Facebook: http://facebook.com/authorangelicadawson
Twitter: @angelicadawson
Antonio Angelo “The Captain’s Daughter”
My pen name is Antonio Angelo which I write erotica under
I write some action adventure type short stories under Brad O'Neill
My current work in progress is a choose your own adventure style erotic novel. It is a cross between Mike Hammer and Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas. There are some BDSM elements and the reader gets to play the part of the Detective. Who in addition to harboring a minor drug problem and doing some pimping on the side has a series of murders he is trying to get to the bottom of.
@antonioangelo21 is my twitter handle
You can find his erotic stories on Smashwords https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/bradoneill
Eden Baylee “From Every Angle”
Eden Baylee writes literary erotica and infuses erotic elements into many of her stories. Incorporating some of her favorite things such as travel, culture, and a deep curiosity for what turns people on, her brand of writing is both sensual and sexual.
Her latest release is a book of erotic flash fiction and poetry called HOT FLASH.
SPRING INTO SUMMER is her second collection of erotic novellas and the companion piece to her first book, FALL INTO WINTER.
Connect with her via her website | blog | twitter @edenbaylee | facebook
March 18, 2013
The Word Count episode 29 - SUBMISSIONS now Being Accepted!
Well that was exciting!
The poll to choose the prompt for the next Word Count Podcast went well past midnight, tied for a good part of the weekend.
But there can be only one in the end, so without further ado, I give you the episode 29 prompt:
That’s when the cameras all turned toward me…
It’s gonna be a weird one!
So now that the glove has been tossed down, you might be wondering-- what IS The Word Count and how do you participate?
I put together the podcast to feature writers (new and "old hands," famous and just starting) as a way to get YOUR writing out there. The show is simple; based on a prompt, you create an original short story, then record yourself reading it. That's it.
No ads, no hard sell. Just a podcast with great stories.
Why do I do it? It's a hobby. And I've been meeting wonderful authors through the show. It's all about networking and friendships.
The show has been downloaded over 10,000 times since it started, an average of
about 500 per episode. Listen to past shows HERE or you can download/subscribe via iTunes.
Easy, fun and you'll pick up a few more fans.
So...you'll be needing the guidelines then. Right.
THE WORD COUNT EPISODE 29
Submission Guidelines (PLEASE READ CAREFULLY)
GENRE: Any.
DEADLINE: I must receive your submission by 29 March, 2013
THE DETAILS: The work must be an original work based on the prompt (“That’s when the cameras all turned toward me…”) Do NOT exceed ten minutes. As this is a podcast, I need to receive a file of YOU, a friend or multiple friends reading (singing or otherwise performing) your work. MP3 FORMAT ONLY, and please attach your MP3 file to an e-mail or contact me for a Dropbox link.
Your submission should also contain the following:
Your pen name
Your latest bio
Links to your website(s) - Include your personal site, Facebook Fanpage etc.
Your Twitter handle (if you have one)
A photo of you I can use for the show notes
At the end of your recording, please add “This is <state your name> author of <state your work(s)> and you’re listening to The Word Count Podcast”
Permission to use your recording in the podcast.
Send your file to me@rbwood.com (or via the dropbox link I can provide) by 29 March 2013. You can also e-mail me with questions beforehand. I do reserve the right NOT to post your submission, but will communicate that to you should it be the case.
I add the ‘Explicit’ tag to the ‘cast, so if your story uses adult themes or language that’s ok—but it should be necessary for the story.
Peace
March 16, 2013
YOU Choose the Prompt - The Word Count Episode 29
Seven stories last time! It looks like the Word Count Podcast is back to stay!
(You can check out ALL the past shows via iTunes or by heading to my Libsyn page. )
I’m lining up a few tweaks to the show in the coming months—from a dedicated show webpage (with a bit more flair than the Libsyn site) to trying out a few suggestions I’ve received from some of the “Word Count Irregulars”—authors who participate on the show on a semi-frequent basis.
But for the next show—episode 29—we’ll do things the old fashioned way.
I've setup up a poll off to the left with a choice of FIVE possible prompts for The Word Count episode 29. You know the drill—vote for your favorite by making a selection and clicking on the “vote” button. Remember to check the results to confirm your vote counted as sometimes the interwebs are as touchy as a menstruating cougar.
WAIT. You don't KNOW what the Word Count Podcast is? Well, read ON dear sinner!
What is The Word Count Podcast?
It is a free broadcast by writers for writers. Simply put, a theme for each show is announced via this site, Twitter and Facebook and writers are given a week or two to write AND RECORD their stories based on said theme.
Why?
Why not, says I. It’s a great way to practice writing and public speaking. It’s another way for writers to get their work “out there.” And I love to meet fellow authors and have a blast putting the show together. It’s just that simple.
Now for the voting!
Again, to the LEFT, I've posted five potential prompts for the next Word Count. The poll will remain open for the weekend, and close out midnight the 17th of March 2013.
I think there are a few good ones to choose from...so vote often an early and get your friends to help YOU pick the theme for the next Word Count!
Peace
March 3, 2013
The Word Count Episode 28 is LIVE!
Welcome to Episode 28 of “The Word Count” podcast!
I blame C. Thomas Smith for the lateness of the show this weekend. I tried to read his bio numerous times on the ‘cast and ended up laughing each time. So I skipped it and posted it below. Along with the bios of our six other guests.
It’s a special hour-long Word Count this week so I hope you enjoy it!
The theme our writers used for the show this week is:
One. Two. Three. He caressed each bullet in the palm of his hand before slipping it into its chamber...
But before we introduce our writers, a bit about the show:
What is The Word Count Podcast?
It is a free broadcast by writers for writers. Simply put, a theme for each show is announced via this site, Twitter and Facebook and writers are given a week or two to write AND RECORD their stories based on said theme.
Why?
Why not, says I. It’s a great way to practice writing and public speaking. It’s another way for writers to get their work “out there.” And I love to meet fellow authors and have a blast putting the show together. It’s just that simple.
Okay. Where can I find it?
You can listen to the latest podcast below, subscribe via iTunes or listen at the show’s site.
Direct: http://thewordcount.libsyn.com/webpage
iTunes (and remember, iTunes takes their sweet time in posting. If you don't see it yet, keep trying!): http://itunes.apple.com/podcast/the-word-count/id392550989
Our guests this week:
Eden Baylee
“Farewell My Love”
Eden Baylee writes literary erotica and infuses erotic elements into many of her stories. Incorporating some of her favorite things such as travel, culture, and a deep curiosity for what turns people on, her brand of writing is both sensual and sexual.
Her latest release is a book of erotic flash fiction and poetry called HOT FLASH.
SPRING INTO SUMMER is her second collection of erotic novellas and the companion piece to her first book, FALL INTO WINTER.
Connect with her via her website | blog | twitter @edenbaylee | facebook
Tristan John S.
“A Sea of Troubles”
Born the eldest of non-identical twins in Kent, Tristan's first ambition was to become a writer. Having trained as a Junior Exhibitioner at the Royal College of Music, London from 1995-2001 on a joint first study of violin and piano, he went up to Cambridge University where he graduated with an MA in Theology and Religious Studies. Since 2008 he has been a Qualified Secondary Teacher of Music and RE.
Tristan started writing poetry as a teenager and then turned his attention to prose, completing his first novel whilst still at University. He has written five plays, three of which have been produced and is now seeking publication for the first in a series of novels for young adults, The Lesser Evil.
Having left full time teaching, Tristan now works as a freelance musician, writer and private tutor. He is also an avid film maker and directed a feature film adaptation of the beloved book "Blitzed" by celebrated children's author, Robert Swindells in 2010, in collaboration with a local primary school.
Websites: www.tristanjohns.co.uk , www.inklingmedia.co.uk, Facebook = http://www.facebook.com/tristan.j.s.9
Matthew Munson “Chamber”
Matthew is the proud author of Fall From Grace, which was published in October 2011. Its sequel, Leap of Faith, is due out in August 2013. He's British and lives in a small town you've probably never heard of right by the sea. Aside from his slow-burning writing career, Matthew is a disability advocate (through The Two Dyspraxics), is learning British Sign Language and is very proud of the fact that he is contributor to the Word Count Podcast.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/matthewmunsonauthor
Twitter: @mnwjm1981
Website & Blog: www.matthewmunson.co.uk
M. Holder “Memory”
M. Holder shares her life with two men, a daughter and three cats. When not checking the bottom of her laundry basket for stories, she studies Taekwondo and training for a 5k. "Memory" was whispered in her ear on the way home from work.
Follow her ramblings, pictures and adventures on Twitter: @runawaylolrus
Antonio Angelo “It’s All for Luck”
My pen name is Antonio Angelo, which I write erotica under.
I write some action adventure type short stories under Brad O'Neill
My current work in progress is a choose your own adventure style erotic novel. It is a cross between Mike Hammer and Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas. There are some BDSM elements and the reader gets to play the part of the Detective. Who in addition to harboring a minor drug problem and doing some pimping on the side has a series of murders he is trying to get to the bottom of.
@antonioangelo21 is my twitter handle.
You can find his erotic stories on Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/bradoneill
C. Thomas Smith “Our Hero”
I have been remiss here on the Word Count Podcast in the past. I see that others take this bio malarkey as an opportunity to tell the world about their writing, to showcase their talents and their achievements and all that other good stuff. So here, for your own edification are some recent quotes about my work.
“Don’t read this, please.”
“This book gave me crabs.”
“It’s a rectal prolapse as prose.”
“This book is so badass, it took my dog out back and shot him twice in the face before ravishing my woman and sailing off into the sunset with her while sipping champagne and curling its evil moustache. Now my kids call me, “our other daddy”.”
“This book totally changed my life. Now I cry every morning when I wake up.”
“It’s like sucking the tongue of a ten dollar hooker who you just paid fifty dollars to slurp the ass of a neighbour’s cat after you fed it a mortal dose of super strength laxatives.”
Granted the above quotes are mine but they are all true and really sincere. I take myself very seriously and hope you don’t remember the prolapse quote or the super strength laxative out of a cat’s ass quote the next time you chew down on a warm sticky chocolate muffin or slurp a mouthful of luke warm coffee. As ever, I remain your faithful scribbler at large. Now I must write an apology letter to my neighbour. I hope she has a strong stomach and sees Twinkles death as art rather than blatant insanity.
Twitter = @KRSTVR
Web = krstvr.com
Email = krstvr.scribbler@gmail.com
Bill Kirton
“Mighty Words”
Before taking early retirement to become a full-time writer, Bill Kirton was a lecturer in French at the University of Aberdeen. He’s written stage and radio plays, short stories, novels, skits and songs for revues, and five non-fiction books aimed at helping students with their writing and study skills. His five modern crime novels, Material Evidence, Rough Justice, The Darkness, Shadow Selves and Unsafe Acts are set in north east Scotland and his historical crime/romance novel, The Figurehead, is set in Aberdeen in 1840. The Darkness won the silver award in the mystery category of the 2011 Forward National Literature Awards and his spoof mystery, The Sparrow Conundrum, was the winner in the humor category.
He’s had radio plays broadcast by the BBC and the Australian BC. His short stories have appeared in many anthologies, including three of the CWA’s annual collections, and one was chosen by Maxim Jakubowski for his 2010 anthology of Best British Crime Stories.
Writing as Jack Rosse, he’s published a novel for children called The Loch Ewe Mystery.
He’s been a Royal Literary Fund Writing Fellow at universities in Aberdeen, Dundee and St Andrews.
Twitter: @carver22
Website: www.bill-kirton.co.uk
Blog: www.Livingwritingandotherstuff.blogspot.com
February 16, 2013
The Word Count Episode 28 OPEN for SUBMISSIONS!
I love trying to guess what readers of my blog and fans of The Word Count will pick for each show’s theme. For this week we had quite a few interesting choices, but one (as it always does) seemed to be the favorite and it wasn’t the theme I expected:
One. Two. Three. He caressed each bullet in the palm of his hand before slipping it into its chamber...
We’re gonna get some very interesting stories from this prompt!
So, what IS The Word Count and how do you participate?
I put together the podcast to feature writers (new and "old hands," famous and just starting) as a way to get YOUR writing out there. The show is simple; based on a prompt, you create an original short story, then record yourself reading it. That's it.
No ads, no hard sell. Just a podcast with great stories.
Why do I do it? It's a hobby. And I've been meeting wonderful authors through the show. It's all about networking and friendships.
The show has been downloaded over 10,000 times since it started, an average of
about 500 per episode. Listen to past shows HERE or you can download/subscribe via iTunes.
Easy, fun and you'll pick up a few more fans.
So...you'll be needing the guidelines then. Right.
THE WORD COUNT EPISODE 28
Submission Guidelines (PLEASE READ CAREFULLY)
GENRE: Any.
DEADLINE: I must receive your submission by 1 March, 2013
THE DETAILS: The work must be an original work based on the prompt (“One. Two. Three. He caressed each bullet in the palm of his hand before slipping it into its chamber...”) Do NOT exceed ten minutes. As this is a podcast, I need to receive a file of YOU, a friend or multiple friends reading (singing or otherwise performing) your work. MP3 FORMAT ONLY, and please attach your MP3 file to an e-mail or contact me for a Dropbox link.
Your submission should also contain the following (via e-mail):
Your pen name
Your latest bio
Links to your website(s) - Include your personal site, Facebook Fanpage etc.
Your Twitter handle (if you have one)
A photo of you I can use for the show notes
Permission to use your recording in the podcast.
Send your file to me@rbwood.com (or via the dropbox link I can provide) by 1 March 2013. You can also e-mail me with questions beforehand. I do reserve the right NOT to post your submission, but will communicate that to you should it be the case.
I add the ‘Explicit’ tag to the ‘cast, so if your story uses adult themes or language that’s ok—but it should be necessary for the story.
Peace
February 13, 2013
The Word Count Episode 28 Prompt
Well, the last show was a boat load of awesomesauce, ready to go again?
<Insert THAT'S WHAT SHE SAID joke here>
I've lined up a poll off to the left with a choice of FIVE possible prompts for The Word Count episode 28. And you guys get to pick the next challenge for our cadre of writers!
Neat, huh?
WAIT. You don't KNOW what the Word Count Podcast is? Well, read ON dear sinner!
What is The Word Count Podcast?
It is a free broadcast by writers for writers. Simply put, a theme for each show is announced via this site, Twitter and Facebook and writers are given a week or two to write AND RECORD their stories based on said theme.
Why?
Why not, says I. It’s a great way to practice writing and public speaking. It’s another way for writers to get their work “out there.” And I love to meet fellow authors and have a blast putting the show together. It’s just that simple.
CHECK OUT THE POST BELOW THIS ONE for links to past shows or to here the last episode!
Now for the voting!
Off to the LEFT, I've posted five potential prompts for the next Word Count. The poll will remain open until late Friday, 15 February 2013 . You can vote once per day and make SURE your vote counted by checking the results!
(Select your choice, click the "Vote" button, then check the "Results" button to make sure your vote counted)
I think there are a few good ones to choose from...so vote often an early and get your friends to help YOU pick the theme for the next Word Count!
Peace
