Shawn H. Phillips's Blog, page 2
March 3, 2018
Darkened Demigod: Weapon of War
The reviews (13 on Goodreads and 10 on Amazon) have simply blown me away with an average about 4.6 out of 5 stars. I have enjoyed what the reviewers are saying (both good and bad) and am dying for more.
However, out of the 170 folks who won copies of Darkened Demigod, it looks like many aren't set to read it for a long time. I'm entering everyone who posts a review on Amazon by March 15th (yes, both good and bad) a chance to win a $100, $50 and one one of 10 $10 Amazon gift cards.
It may not be enough simply because people have a lot of great books ahead of mine.
But if you want to read it and post a review, then shoot me a message and I'll send a copy to you.
Best wishes,
Shawn (sycdphillips@gmail.com)
However, out of the 170 folks who won copies of Darkened Demigod, it looks like many aren't set to read it for a long time. I'm entering everyone who posts a review on Amazon by March 15th (yes, both good and bad) a chance to win a $100, $50 and one one of 10 $10 Amazon gift cards.
It may not be enough simply because people have a lot of great books ahead of mine.
But if you want to read it and post a review, then shoot me a message and I'll send a copy to you.
Best wishes,
Shawn (sycdphillips@gmail.com)
February 20, 2018
Darkened Demigod: Weapon of War
More reviews are starting to come in for Darkened Demigod. 4 & 5 stars so far, and also working for reviewers to post on Amazon. Will be doing a Amazon Gift Card Giveaway (12 of them) to be randomly chosen from all Amazon reviews of the book by March 15, 2018.
Looking for more sci-fi/fantasy avenues for reviewers and for readers. More searching the internet tonight.
Looking for more sci-fi/fantasy avenues for reviewers and for readers. More searching the internet tonight.
February 17, 2018
Darkened Demigod: Weapon of War
First review on Amazon and first two reviews on Goodreads have come in. Amazon review from a Goodreads giveaway winner was 5/5 stars! Best thing was that the reviewer had two excellent critiques in addition to discussing what he enjoyed.
The Goodreads reviews included this same person but another that gave it 4/5 starts.
The surprise for all is that on March 15th all reviewers (yes, both good and bad reviews), will be entered to win a $100 Amazon gift card and ten $10 Amazon gift cards. I did this last time as a thanks for reviewers of Indie Author works.
Can't wait for more reviews!
Shawn
The Goodreads reviews included this same person but another that gave it 4/5 starts.
The surprise for all is that on March 15th all reviewers (yes, both good and bad reviews), will be entered to win a $100 Amazon gift card and ten $10 Amazon gift cards. I did this last time as a thanks for reviewers of Indie Author works.
Can't wait for more reviews!
Shawn
February 10, 2018
Darkened Demigod: Weapon of War_Pre-Pub Prep
A few years ago I crafted a quote that has stuck with me over the years. It stands true in our political environment (no matter what side you are on), and for what Goodreads means to Indie authors.
"In order to rise up, one must reach down."
Our successes are often because of others helping out, and as we continue to grow, continue to rise, then we must reach down to pull up those who's shoulders we stood upon.
To me, Goodreads has been a voice for Indie Authors, and the 45 million members are the shoulders of the giant we can stand on. I will never forget this, even as Goodreads seems to be changing.
Thank you,
Shawn
"In order to rise up, one must reach down."
Our successes are often because of others helping out, and as we continue to grow, continue to rise, then we must reach down to pull up those who's shoulders we stood upon.
To me, Goodreads has been a voice for Indie Authors, and the 45 million members are the shoulders of the giant we can stand on. I will never forget this, even as Goodreads seems to be changing.
Thank you,
Shawn
Darkened Demigod: Weapon of War_Pre-Pub Prep
Just finished up a crazy few weeks. The first 50 books from the giveaway have been sent off, and I held my shock for the cost of sending the book to oversee winners behind my thanks for those on Goodreads who are willing to read my novel and publish a review. Well worth the cost.
Also, the e-Book giveaway finished yesterday with a 100 Kindle versions heading out to Goodreads reviewers. Love this new capability, even if Amazon seems to keep increasing the price of Giveaways. It will make it harder and harder for new, struggling authors to use Goodreads the way it was created.
Can't wait to get the reviews back, and to find out if I was able to truly create a story and world that the reader can get lost in.
Take care,
Shawn
Also, the e-Book giveaway finished yesterday with a 100 Kindle versions heading out to Goodreads reviewers. Love this new capability, even if Amazon seems to keep increasing the price of Giveaways. It will make it harder and harder for new, struggling authors to use Goodreads the way it was created.
Can't wait to get the reviews back, and to find out if I was able to truly create a story and world that the reader can get lost in.
Take care,
Shawn
January 28, 2018
Darkened Demigod: Weapon of War
The Cartoon Character (#2 of 4)
Previously I wrote about the different types of characters that I use in my writings. The first was the Page Character (see last blog), and next up is that character who's personality is larger than life, often possessing one trait that is blown up to the size of a skyscraper, and NEVER changes. It can be the always-angry desk sergeant that your detective has to check in with everyday, or the gruff, master swordsman who arrogantly beats the tar our of our novice main character who is just trying to survive the magical land she was transported into. AND of course, it can be a sidekick or even a nemesis, but one must be careful if choosing one of the latter two as a Cartoon Character.
Why? Well first, let's say that there are reasons for selecting your sidekick or nemesis as a Cartoon Character. Mainly, if her/his role is to be one of constant something (such as pressure, comic relief, etc). However, minor growth of the sidekick is often a missed goldmine, and changes in a nemesis can add surprising depth to your story (imagine your main character figuring out how to best your nemesis, only to find he/she has grown from a raving, maniacal idiot to a deep-thinking overlord. But if you do this, don't forget to ensure that some significant or traumatic event must occur to cause her/his change.
? Do I use Cartoon Characters in Darkened Demigod? Absolutely, but I also show growth in a key one. Guess who?
That leaves us with Secondary Characters and of course...Main Characters. For these we will discuss level and types of growth AND base this on true personality types (Myers-Briggs, 16 Personality Traits, etc).
Previously I wrote about the different types of characters that I use in my writings. The first was the Page Character (see last blog), and next up is that character who's personality is larger than life, often possessing one trait that is blown up to the size of a skyscraper, and NEVER changes. It can be the always-angry desk sergeant that your detective has to check in with everyday, or the gruff, master swordsman who arrogantly beats the tar our of our novice main character who is just trying to survive the magical land she was transported into. AND of course, it can be a sidekick or even a nemesis, but one must be careful if choosing one of the latter two as a Cartoon Character.
Why? Well first, let's say that there are reasons for selecting your sidekick or nemesis as a Cartoon Character. Mainly, if her/his role is to be one of constant something (such as pressure, comic relief, etc). However, minor growth of the sidekick is often a missed goldmine, and changes in a nemesis can add surprising depth to your story (imagine your main character figuring out how to best your nemesis, only to find he/she has grown from a raving, maniacal idiot to a deep-thinking overlord. But if you do this, don't forget to ensure that some significant or traumatic event must occur to cause her/his change.
? Do I use Cartoon Characters in Darkened Demigod? Absolutely, but I also show growth in a key one. Guess who?
That leaves us with Secondary Characters and of course...Main Characters. For these we will discuss level and types of growth AND base this on true personality types (Myers-Briggs, 16 Personality Traits, etc).
January 25, 2018
Darkened Demigod: Weapon of War
The Page Character,
We will skip the quick encounter of the non-critical characters in a story. A burly sentry at an aged gate or the flowing beauty standing next to your soulful blue sports car. Descriptors either exist or don't for the person, depending on the scene/setting and what you as the author are trying to convey.
The page character is exactly as the adjective says, conveying descriptors/mannerisms/personality well under a page, and ensuring that the character is more two-dimensional in depth than three-dimensional. Why? You as the author have a role for the interaction/encounter, but often times the role is minor--maybe the character becomes something akin to 'cannon fodder.' Too much depth and readers feel betrayed for investing in the character. Also, why spend so much time on a character who's role is purposeful but limited? Examples? The cop's second who is flung through the window as their car slams into the runaway Brinks truck.
Next up? The Cartoon Character
This one is fun!
We will skip the quick encounter of the non-critical characters in a story. A burly sentry at an aged gate or the flowing beauty standing next to your soulful blue sports car. Descriptors either exist or don't for the person, depending on the scene/setting and what you as the author are trying to convey.
The page character is exactly as the adjective says, conveying descriptors/mannerisms/personality well under a page, and ensuring that the character is more two-dimensional in depth than three-dimensional. Why? You as the author have a role for the interaction/encounter, but often times the role is minor--maybe the character becomes something akin to 'cannon fodder.' Too much depth and readers feel betrayed for investing in the character. Also, why spend so much time on a character who's role is purposeful but limited? Examples? The cop's second who is flung through the window as their car slams into the runaway Brinks truck.
Next up? The Cartoon Character
This one is fun!
January 24, 2018
Darkened Demigod: Weapon of War
Mythological beings are steeped in tradition, so how does one introduce a new demigod?
I believe it is a combination of backstory (reflection) and great character development. The two must be interwoven throughout the novel, and success can only be measured after a reader finishes. However, the above is only the beginning. System engineering teaches us to break things down into smaller and smaller pieces until you have the most basic element to work with.
What's the next breakdown in backstory? How about character development?
I'd like to hear from you, but my next blog post will take an excerpt from a blog tour I did on types of characters, which is part of breaking down character development.
I believe it is a combination of backstory (reflection) and great character development. The two must be interwoven throughout the novel, and success can only be measured after a reader finishes. However, the above is only the beginning. System engineering teaches us to break things down into smaller and smaller pieces until you have the most basic element to work with.
What's the next breakdown in backstory? How about character development?
I'd like to hear from you, but my next blog post will take an excerpt from a blog tour I did on types of characters, which is part of breaking down character development.
January 23, 2018
Darkened Demigod: Weapon of War
Amazon released Kindle and paperback book for Darkened Demigod today. Waaay earlier than when I was ready, but that's okay. I'm going to wait a while to promote until >25 reviews are in marketing campaign doesn't start until March 15th.
Kindle version is set at a very low $2.99. I'm not about charging $9.99 for an ebook and making a killing with each sale. I want people to pick up with a question on just how good it can be, become invested in the main character and thoroughly enjoy Bookworm's personality.
Kindle version is set at a very low $2.99. I'm not about charging $9.99 for an ebook and making a killing with each sale. I want people to pick up with a question on just how good it can be, become invested in the main character and thoroughly enjoy Bookworm's personality.
January 22, 2018
Darkened Demigod: Weapon of War
(Random thoughts from a crazed mind)
The hardcopy proof be good! A struggle greater than cutting open a Costco gift encased in the diamond-like plastic. And just like it, I endured cuts, scrapes and mental trauma...BUT victory was mine.
One surely laments the conversion of digital images to print, and how it's not a 1:1 conversion.
Anyway, the KDP version will be sold at $2.99 and the paperback at 11.99 (lowest I could get and still turn a little profit). If ones wants a signed (and personalized note copy) then just go to www.drshawnphillips.com and order for 14.99 (includes S&H).
Official release date of 1/31/2018 is official, with the Kindle version popping up by 1/25/2018.
50 Book Giveaway ends 1/27/2018 on Goodreads.
The hardcopy proof be good! A struggle greater than cutting open a Costco gift encased in the diamond-like plastic. And just like it, I endured cuts, scrapes and mental trauma...BUT victory was mine.
One surely laments the conversion of digital images to print, and how it's not a 1:1 conversion.
Anyway, the KDP version will be sold at $2.99 and the paperback at 11.99 (lowest I could get and still turn a little profit). If ones wants a signed (and personalized note copy) then just go to www.drshawnphillips.com and order for 14.99 (includes S&H).
Official release date of 1/31/2018 is official, with the Kindle version popping up by 1/25/2018.
50 Book Giveaway ends 1/27/2018 on Goodreads.
