Amy Lignor's Blog: Lover of Books, page 12
December 4, 2011
A Christmas Gift For Authors
Hey there, everyone! A national magazine has listed The Write Companion and how, for the Holiday season, they are giving back to authors! Check it out!
http://www.zimbio.com/Books/articles/...
http://www.zimbio.com/Books/articles/...
December 2, 2011
Looking Into The Number 13!
For a very long time the number 13 has been an obsession for many. From being referred to as the most unlucky number in the universe, to people who truly believe that only under the umbrella of 13 can they succeed - this particular numeral has soared to the highest of heights and the most frightening lows.
When it comes to 13 being unlucky, this is not because some movie character named Jason donned a hockey mask and jumped out of a lake. Although the most widely acknowledged reasoning behind why 13 is unlucky IS because of the date - Friday the 13th - movies had nothing to do with it. On this date (October 13th, 1307) the Knights Templar were arrested and condemned by the seneschals of Philippe IV, King of France, in a “pre-dawn raid.” There are also other areas where the number 13 came into play in an unlucky way such as, Apollo 13. The only unsuccessful mission by the United States of America intended to land humans on the moon, was launched on April 11, 1970 at 13:13 CST. In addition, the explosion of an oxygen tank on April 13th, 1970 caused severe problems before the astronauts were able to return to Earth - thankfully, alive.
The number 13 can go from one extreme to the other - from the most unlucky number in the world to the number of sacred power. When looking back at folklore and history - whether religious or otherwise - the number 13 may have become demonized simply because it was held sacred in pre-Christian times.
Think about this oddly recurring sum. There were twelve apostles plus a Messiah; there were twelve Knights of the Round Table and their King Arthur; there were twelve archangels with their leader, Michael. Looking at these figures, it becomes too much of a coincidence that the number 13 occurs in everything from significant contexts to the ‘stuff of legend.’
Even our own ‘world’ is made up of twelve constellations (or, orbs) around the Sun, making it recurrent in nature, as well. And the list goes on. Writing about the Aztec calendar, someone once referred to the fact that 13 was a basic structural unit in nature, meaning that a ‘center‘ attracts elements that are hovering around it. So it was no surprise that even science - sacred geometry and geometrical uses - were based on the number 13, because it is a true pattern that can be seen in nature, the heavens, as well as humans. There are 13 major joints in our bodies, as well as 13 lunar cycles in a solar year, and the moon travels 13 degrees across the sky every day.
In some circles 13 is the number that cleans and purifies, it is also the number that brings death - allowing the spirit to go forth on a higher level of existence. For the superstitious, this number brings the bad luck or the misfortune; while for the cabalist it is the meaning of the Snake, the dragon, Satan and the murderer. But it is also, for Christians, the representative number of the Virgin Mary - she, whose mission it is to crush the head of Satan.
And when it comes to the thirteenth mystery of the Tarot, it does not even have a name. 13 marks the uncertainty, the hesitation, the fickleness or the transformation of something - the death and the renewal that is significant for change.
That number is also ‘linked’ to some truly disturbing characters throughout history - one being Jack the Ripper. Did he have thirteen gloves, or 13 knives? No, much more simple. The site of his worst crime was 13 Miller’s Court, and the legend behind what happened there that was NOT shown in papers, has been written about in a literary marvel that explores the ins and outs of the number 13.
Another character the book explores is Sara Winchester - heiress of the Winchester Gun billions - who was beyond superstitious about spirits. There are 13 panes in a great deal of her mansion’s windows, 13 bathrooms, with 13 windows in the 13th one. There are also 13 wall panels in the room prior to the 13th bathroom, with 13 steps leading towards it. The Carriage Entrance Hall floor is divided into 13 cement sections. There are 13 hooks in the Séance Room, which supposedly held the different colored robes Mrs. Winchester wore while communing with the spirits, 13 glass cupolas on the Greenhouse, 13 holes in the sink drain covers, and the list goes on.
Although the number 13 has been shunned for centuries by architects who will not place a 13th floor in their office buildings to this very day, Coptic Christians and Ancient Egyptians divided their years based on the 13th month agricultural year, and for the Egyptians, their calendar and the seasons are interwoven with the life cycle of the Great River Nile - based on the number 13. In fact, many Indigenous cultures evolve their calendars around the cycles of the moon or lunar cycles which are 28 days in length and consist of 13 months in an annual cycle.
In recent years more people, especially women, seem to have an affinity to the number 13, as if females are all going back to their ancestors for the real answers to some of life’s hardest questions. Even celebrities tout the number 13. It was Taylor Swift who recently said that every time she has won an award she has sat in seat number 13, so apparently for that particular celebrity, 13 will be a number she keeps close to her heart for a long time.
Recently, as we mentioned before, in the literary world a series has begun with a book titled, 13. This author has explored connections between everyone from the architects of the New York Public Library, Carrère and Hastings, to the most recognized serial killer in the world - Jack the Ripper. From the Knights of the Round Table to a place where Jesus ate his last Supper, the number 13 is explored, and the adventure that is brought forth make up a plot that Hollywood is currently looking at bringing to the big screen.
For all of you out there who wish to delve further into the mystical history of the number 13, or simply wish to read a book that is the best adventure to come along since The DaVinci Code, Tallent & Lowery - 13 will be going from eBook to print very, very soon! But for a little pre-look, a stellar trailer has been brought to the market! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yRl7p4...
Begin your own obsession with 13 today!
Until Next Time, Everybody.
When it comes to 13 being unlucky, this is not because some movie character named Jason donned a hockey mask and jumped out of a lake. Although the most widely acknowledged reasoning behind why 13 is unlucky IS because of the date - Friday the 13th - movies had nothing to do with it. On this date (October 13th, 1307) the Knights Templar were arrested and condemned by the seneschals of Philippe IV, King of France, in a “pre-dawn raid.” There are also other areas where the number 13 came into play in an unlucky way such as, Apollo 13. The only unsuccessful mission by the United States of America intended to land humans on the moon, was launched on April 11, 1970 at 13:13 CST. In addition, the explosion of an oxygen tank on April 13th, 1970 caused severe problems before the astronauts were able to return to Earth - thankfully, alive.
The number 13 can go from one extreme to the other - from the most unlucky number in the world to the number of sacred power. When looking back at folklore and history - whether religious or otherwise - the number 13 may have become demonized simply because it was held sacred in pre-Christian times.
Think about this oddly recurring sum. There were twelve apostles plus a Messiah; there were twelve Knights of the Round Table and their King Arthur; there were twelve archangels with their leader, Michael. Looking at these figures, it becomes too much of a coincidence that the number 13 occurs in everything from significant contexts to the ‘stuff of legend.’
Even our own ‘world’ is made up of twelve constellations (or, orbs) around the Sun, making it recurrent in nature, as well. And the list goes on. Writing about the Aztec calendar, someone once referred to the fact that 13 was a basic structural unit in nature, meaning that a ‘center‘ attracts elements that are hovering around it. So it was no surprise that even science - sacred geometry and geometrical uses - were based on the number 13, because it is a true pattern that can be seen in nature, the heavens, as well as humans. There are 13 major joints in our bodies, as well as 13 lunar cycles in a solar year, and the moon travels 13 degrees across the sky every day.
In some circles 13 is the number that cleans and purifies, it is also the number that brings death - allowing the spirit to go forth on a higher level of existence. For the superstitious, this number brings the bad luck or the misfortune; while for the cabalist it is the meaning of the Snake, the dragon, Satan and the murderer. But it is also, for Christians, the representative number of the Virgin Mary - she, whose mission it is to crush the head of Satan.
And when it comes to the thirteenth mystery of the Tarot, it does not even have a name. 13 marks the uncertainty, the hesitation, the fickleness or the transformation of something - the death and the renewal that is significant for change.
That number is also ‘linked’ to some truly disturbing characters throughout history - one being Jack the Ripper. Did he have thirteen gloves, or 13 knives? No, much more simple. The site of his worst crime was 13 Miller’s Court, and the legend behind what happened there that was NOT shown in papers, has been written about in a literary marvel that explores the ins and outs of the number 13.
Another character the book explores is Sara Winchester - heiress of the Winchester Gun billions - who was beyond superstitious about spirits. There are 13 panes in a great deal of her mansion’s windows, 13 bathrooms, with 13 windows in the 13th one. There are also 13 wall panels in the room prior to the 13th bathroom, with 13 steps leading towards it. The Carriage Entrance Hall floor is divided into 13 cement sections. There are 13 hooks in the Séance Room, which supposedly held the different colored robes Mrs. Winchester wore while communing with the spirits, 13 glass cupolas on the Greenhouse, 13 holes in the sink drain covers, and the list goes on.
Although the number 13 has been shunned for centuries by architects who will not place a 13th floor in their office buildings to this very day, Coptic Christians and Ancient Egyptians divided their years based on the 13th month agricultural year, and for the Egyptians, their calendar and the seasons are interwoven with the life cycle of the Great River Nile - based on the number 13. In fact, many Indigenous cultures evolve their calendars around the cycles of the moon or lunar cycles which are 28 days in length and consist of 13 months in an annual cycle.
In recent years more people, especially women, seem to have an affinity to the number 13, as if females are all going back to their ancestors for the real answers to some of life’s hardest questions. Even celebrities tout the number 13. It was Taylor Swift who recently said that every time she has won an award she has sat in seat number 13, so apparently for that particular celebrity, 13 will be a number she keeps close to her heart for a long time.
Recently, as we mentioned before, in the literary world a series has begun with a book titled, 13. This author has explored connections between everyone from the architects of the New York Public Library, Carrère and Hastings, to the most recognized serial killer in the world - Jack the Ripper. From the Knights of the Round Table to a place where Jesus ate his last Supper, the number 13 is explored, and the adventure that is brought forth make up a plot that Hollywood is currently looking at bringing to the big screen.
For all of you out there who wish to delve further into the mystical history of the number 13, or simply wish to read a book that is the best adventure to come along since The DaVinci Code, Tallent & Lowery - 13 will be going from eBook to print very, very soon! But for a little pre-look, a stellar trailer has been brought to the market! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yRl7p4...
Begin your own obsession with 13 today!
Until Next Time, Everybody.
November 21, 2011
Another Maze Runner is COMING!
I just got the word from Delacorte - In August of 2012 they are releasing a PREQUEL of The Maze Runner called The Kill Order! I'll let everybody know what it's like!!
November 12, 2011
The 'Chicks in Charge'
Hey everyone - 13 made the news as being a fiction title with one of the best 'chicks in charge.' I hope you get a chance to read it - it's a fun article.
http://staugnews.com/2011/11/12/the-g...
From J.D. Robb to Harry Potter, it covered it all!
http://staugnews.com/2011/11/12/the-g...
From J.D. Robb to Harry Potter, it covered it all!
November 11, 2011
Suspense Magazine
Hey there! Suspense Magazine - a great publication for writers and readers - just published my story in the November issue. I hope you can check it out. www.suspensemagazine.com
October 27, 2011
A Truly Haunted Halloween!
When you learn the history, you can almost imagine the icy cold wind numbing your skin as you walk towards it. You want to cry out in pain when the sheets of rain and sleet begin pounding against your back as if Satan, himself, is holding the whip. You can feel the storm increase, as if a temperamental ghost is screaming in your ear and breathing down your neck with each step you take. Each one of these moments is a warning to stop, to make you turn back and not keep moving up that driveway that leads to what was once the most frightening location Scotland had to offer. But this is Halloween. You can’t stop; you can’t turn back, because where you are is steeped in history, and may just be the one place where the Devil actually appeared.
As this holiday comes upon you, and the ghosts and goblins begin to ‘shine,’ just think about the complete ‘scare’ you’d receive if you were about to have Halloween at a home called, Boleskine.
On the shores that surround another legendary myth supposedly living under the dark waters of Loch Ness, is the estate of author and occultist, Aleister Crowley. From 1899 to 1913, this strange home was purchased by Crowley in order to perform the experiments that are found in The Book of the Sacred Magick of Abra-Melin the Mage. Crowley, himself, spoke about what he needed in order to obtain a ‘meeting’ with the Holy Guardian Angel:
The first essential is a house in a more or less secluded situation. There should be a door opening to the north from the room of which you make your oratory. Outside this door, you construct a terrace covered with fine river sand. This ends in a “lodge” where the spirits may congregate.
Just imagine walking through this long, low building which gives off a true feeling of evil; or, staring out the window at the old Gate Lodge, which many people say was used for evil doings. It was Jimmy Page, the owner of Boleskine from the 1970s through 1991, who said that the house was even haunted by a decapitated head. Perhaps something Crowley left behind…
As Crowley’s retreat during his time, Boleskine was used in magical rituals that concluded with the contact of ones holy guardian angel. The ritual was a long elaborate affair, which was documented to have caused quite a stir among the townspeople. If Crowley’s writings are to be believed, his experiments in magic were not successful, and resulted in some disturbing phenomena that ended up driving one of his housemaids mad, and leading to the house becoming haunted by strange entities.
There is even a graveyard situated across from the property, which may have had a reputation for ‘evil’ far before Crowley arrived. One legend suggests that a tunnel exists linking Boleskine to the graveyard, that is said to be the haunt of witches.
This pale-pink stucco mansion was home to this poet, novelist, and painter, but it is for his practices in the occult that he is best known, and his nickname of “The Beast” was supposedly earned! Even back then there were tabloids who dubbed Crowley, “the most evil man in Britain;” even writing fictional accounts of his rituals that included human sacrifice, devil worship and black magic. And he is still considered one of the greatest Briton’s in history.
So, was he able to summon the angel he sought out in the Highlands? Apparently not. Unfortunately for Crowley, he only succeeded in summoning bad demons. Stories of unexplained mystical occurrences in the area during Crowley’s residency are too numerous to tell, but the ones that still exist today are the story of a local butcher who accidentally cut off his own hand with a cleaver after reading a note left by Crowley. One tells of the unexplained disappearance of Crowley’s housekeeper; while still another tells of a local workman employed by Crowley who lost his mind and attempted to kill him. And, according to legend, a church once stood on the ancient site that caught fire and the entire congregation trapped inside was burned alive!
Many spiritualists believe that the geography of the area is charged with spiritual energy, but the house is now a private residence and no one - tourist or spirit -is allowed inside.
But to have the ability to spend Halloween night in Boleskine, surrounded by the demons that Crowley called forth, would certainly be an unforgettable and horrific experience! After all, the things that go bump in the night inside Boleskine may just be REAL!
Until Next Time, Everybody!
To learn more about Boleskine and the frightening mystery that remains within the confines of “The Beast’s” castle, read the first book in the Tallent & Lowery series - 13!
http://www.amazon.com/Tallent-Lowery-...
See Boleskine in the movie trailer for 13!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U3rMIT...
As this holiday comes upon you, and the ghosts and goblins begin to ‘shine,’ just think about the complete ‘scare’ you’d receive if you were about to have Halloween at a home called, Boleskine.
On the shores that surround another legendary myth supposedly living under the dark waters of Loch Ness, is the estate of author and occultist, Aleister Crowley. From 1899 to 1913, this strange home was purchased by Crowley in order to perform the experiments that are found in The Book of the Sacred Magick of Abra-Melin the Mage. Crowley, himself, spoke about what he needed in order to obtain a ‘meeting’ with the Holy Guardian Angel:
The first essential is a house in a more or less secluded situation. There should be a door opening to the north from the room of which you make your oratory. Outside this door, you construct a terrace covered with fine river sand. This ends in a “lodge” where the spirits may congregate.
Just imagine walking through this long, low building which gives off a true feeling of evil; or, staring out the window at the old Gate Lodge, which many people say was used for evil doings. It was Jimmy Page, the owner of Boleskine from the 1970s through 1991, who said that the house was even haunted by a decapitated head. Perhaps something Crowley left behind…
As Crowley’s retreat during his time, Boleskine was used in magical rituals that concluded with the contact of ones holy guardian angel. The ritual was a long elaborate affair, which was documented to have caused quite a stir among the townspeople. If Crowley’s writings are to be believed, his experiments in magic were not successful, and resulted in some disturbing phenomena that ended up driving one of his housemaids mad, and leading to the house becoming haunted by strange entities.
There is even a graveyard situated across from the property, which may have had a reputation for ‘evil’ far before Crowley arrived. One legend suggests that a tunnel exists linking Boleskine to the graveyard, that is said to be the haunt of witches.
This pale-pink stucco mansion was home to this poet, novelist, and painter, but it is for his practices in the occult that he is best known, and his nickname of “The Beast” was supposedly earned! Even back then there were tabloids who dubbed Crowley, “the most evil man in Britain;” even writing fictional accounts of his rituals that included human sacrifice, devil worship and black magic. And he is still considered one of the greatest Briton’s in history.
So, was he able to summon the angel he sought out in the Highlands? Apparently not. Unfortunately for Crowley, he only succeeded in summoning bad demons. Stories of unexplained mystical occurrences in the area during Crowley’s residency are too numerous to tell, but the ones that still exist today are the story of a local butcher who accidentally cut off his own hand with a cleaver after reading a note left by Crowley. One tells of the unexplained disappearance of Crowley’s housekeeper; while still another tells of a local workman employed by Crowley who lost his mind and attempted to kill him. And, according to legend, a church once stood on the ancient site that caught fire and the entire congregation trapped inside was burned alive!
Many spiritualists believe that the geography of the area is charged with spiritual energy, but the house is now a private residence and no one - tourist or spirit -is allowed inside.
But to have the ability to spend Halloween night in Boleskine, surrounded by the demons that Crowley called forth, would certainly be an unforgettable and horrific experience! After all, the things that go bump in the night inside Boleskine may just be REAL!
Until Next Time, Everybody!
To learn more about Boleskine and the frightening mystery that remains within the confines of “The Beast’s” castle, read the first book in the Tallent & Lowery series - 13!
http://www.amazon.com/Tallent-Lowery-...
See Boleskine in the movie trailer for 13!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U3rMIT...
BIG News for YA Authors!
Hey everyone!
Tribute Books - An Independent Publisher for Independent Writers is
Seeking Professional Young Adult Writers!
Celebrating its 7th year in 2011, Tribute Books has established an excellent reputation of providing great books and book promotion for writers with an “entrepreneurial spirit!”
As their website states, publishing a book takes guts. An author needs to possess the courage to share his or her voice with the world. And, let’s face it, gang - writing is hard! It is a true investment of your time and energy and a test of your devotion, to transform a manuscript into the next bestseller. Risk takers rule! The writing world has opened up with the establishment of eBooks, which has given an author the ability to forget those ‘rejection letters’ they keep receiving because of this recession-wary economy, and find an outlet for their creativity and magic!
I was contacted by Nicole Langan, Owner of Tribute Books, with a thrilling opportunity for 2012, that I wish to share with all of you!
Tribute Books is currently accepting YA manuscripts for eBook publication in 2012. We are talking GOOD WRITING here, gang! And there is no ‘particular’ young adult topic they’re looking for. BUT, books written with a series in mind, or those that delve into the paranormal will have a slight edge.
Luckily I was able to go in-depth with Nicole and get you even more specific information on what this is all about. I was incredibly honored to speak with this lady. She is a woman who truly knows and supports an author’s work - from their manuscript to their hard work behind the computer monitor with their branding and promotion, Nicole respects each and every aspect of the work YOU do! So, without further gabbing on my part - here is Nicole Langan and the Tribute Books fantastic offer of 2012!!
______
What made Tribute Books decide to go explicitly into the eBook realm?
Over the course of 2011, we’ve watched our eBook sales outpace our print sales by 2 to 1, due to the explosion in popularity of e-readers such as the Kindle, Nook and iPad. The under $5 price point of most of our e-titles, and the ease of purchase and delivery, surely facilitated this rapid change. I can only see this trend increasing in momentum as the price of e-readers continues to lower, and more and more people start using this new technology. The industry shift is similar to what occurred in terms of music buying habits when iTunes downloads became more popular that CD purchases. There will always be a market for print books, but I think the majority of book sales will soon be electronic. People want the cheapest, quickest and easiest way to obtain their reading material.
To begin with you’re looking for a dozen authors in 2012, publishing one per month. Is there any specific genre you are looking for, or focusing on, and why?
In 2012, we are looking to represent eBook releases of young adult titles. Our preference is for good writing, the particular ‘topic’ is secondary in importance. However, books written with a series in mind or those that delve into the paranormal will have a slight edge.
My hope is that we are able to recruit some talented writers of well-written, well-crafted stories in order to develop an eager fan base for the titles we publish. We want readers to be excited about the eBooks we produce. Young adult authors have the most devoted fan followings out there, and we'd like to introduce that audience to a whole new host of talent.
Can you tell readers and authors what your program will entail? Such as, will authors pay a fee up-front to be published and then be paid royalties?
Interested authors can submit their manuscripts via email to info@tribute-books.com. There will be no charge for the authors we select to work with, and they will receive 50% of the net profits of their eBook sales in quarterly royalty payments. We’re looking for Microsoft Word documents with a maximum of 350 pages of text with no photos, charts, illustrations, graphs, etc.
Will you be offering editorial services to the authors, or do you wish to receive a manuscript already edited and “cleaned,” that is ready for publication?
Manuscripts that have already been professionally edited will receive greater consideration. Our preference is to work with authors who have already been published through a royalty-paying press and who know the ins and outs of book promotion. An established social media platform is a must, and we will not consider writers who do not have a well-followed blog, Facebook page and/or Twitter account.
With this new venture, will you also still be offering the writers marketing, promotion, social media etc. to advertise their books, and brand themselves?
I am a big believer in the power of social media. I even conduct monthly blog tours for outside publishers and authors in order to help them increase the online presence of a book. Book bloggers are a powerful force in the book industry. With more and more book stores closing, and book review columns being cut from major newspapers, readers are depending on bloggers to help them find the books they want to read. They are turning to the internet as a reference point to fill this information gap.
In my opinion, social networking is the bread and butter of any author’s promotional efforts. Without it, it’s like trying to paddle upstream without a canoe. Readers want to connect with the person who wrote the book. They crave interaction with an author. Nothing beats getting a writer to comment on a blogger’s book review post or getting a personalized thank you tweet from your favorite author. The days of authors being isolated from their fans is over. They’re now able to build an online following and receive instant feedback for their work. They have the opportunity to take part in creating their own literary community.
We try to keep an active online presence with our web site:
(http://www.tribute-books.com/);
Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Archbal...
Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/TributeBooks); and,
Blog (http://tributebooks.blogspot.com/).
We’d love to have anyone who loves young adult literature to join us for the ride!
_____
There you have it everybody! And, I may not BE paranormal, but I truly believe I’m psychic! I have a feeling that Nicole Langan’s email is about to be packed!!! But read up on everything we’ve said here today before submitting, so that YOU are sure that your manuscript is the perfect fit to become one of the Tribute Books of 2012!
Until Next Time, Everybody!
Tribute Books - An Independent Publisher for Independent Writers is
Seeking Professional Young Adult Writers!
Celebrating its 7th year in 2011, Tribute Books has established an excellent reputation of providing great books and book promotion for writers with an “entrepreneurial spirit!”
As their website states, publishing a book takes guts. An author needs to possess the courage to share his or her voice with the world. And, let’s face it, gang - writing is hard! It is a true investment of your time and energy and a test of your devotion, to transform a manuscript into the next bestseller. Risk takers rule! The writing world has opened up with the establishment of eBooks, which has given an author the ability to forget those ‘rejection letters’ they keep receiving because of this recession-wary economy, and find an outlet for their creativity and magic!
I was contacted by Nicole Langan, Owner of Tribute Books, with a thrilling opportunity for 2012, that I wish to share with all of you!
Tribute Books is currently accepting YA manuscripts for eBook publication in 2012. We are talking GOOD WRITING here, gang! And there is no ‘particular’ young adult topic they’re looking for. BUT, books written with a series in mind, or those that delve into the paranormal will have a slight edge.
Luckily I was able to go in-depth with Nicole and get you even more specific information on what this is all about. I was incredibly honored to speak with this lady. She is a woman who truly knows and supports an author’s work - from their manuscript to their hard work behind the computer monitor with their branding and promotion, Nicole respects each and every aspect of the work YOU do! So, without further gabbing on my part - here is Nicole Langan and the Tribute Books fantastic offer of 2012!!
______
What made Tribute Books decide to go explicitly into the eBook realm?
Over the course of 2011, we’ve watched our eBook sales outpace our print sales by 2 to 1, due to the explosion in popularity of e-readers such as the Kindle, Nook and iPad. The under $5 price point of most of our e-titles, and the ease of purchase and delivery, surely facilitated this rapid change. I can only see this trend increasing in momentum as the price of e-readers continues to lower, and more and more people start using this new technology. The industry shift is similar to what occurred in terms of music buying habits when iTunes downloads became more popular that CD purchases. There will always be a market for print books, but I think the majority of book sales will soon be electronic. People want the cheapest, quickest and easiest way to obtain their reading material.
To begin with you’re looking for a dozen authors in 2012, publishing one per month. Is there any specific genre you are looking for, or focusing on, and why?
In 2012, we are looking to represent eBook releases of young adult titles. Our preference is for good writing, the particular ‘topic’ is secondary in importance. However, books written with a series in mind or those that delve into the paranormal will have a slight edge.
My hope is that we are able to recruit some talented writers of well-written, well-crafted stories in order to develop an eager fan base for the titles we publish. We want readers to be excited about the eBooks we produce. Young adult authors have the most devoted fan followings out there, and we'd like to introduce that audience to a whole new host of talent.
Can you tell readers and authors what your program will entail? Such as, will authors pay a fee up-front to be published and then be paid royalties?
Interested authors can submit their manuscripts via email to info@tribute-books.com. There will be no charge for the authors we select to work with, and they will receive 50% of the net profits of their eBook sales in quarterly royalty payments. We’re looking for Microsoft Word documents with a maximum of 350 pages of text with no photos, charts, illustrations, graphs, etc.
Will you be offering editorial services to the authors, or do you wish to receive a manuscript already edited and “cleaned,” that is ready for publication?
Manuscripts that have already been professionally edited will receive greater consideration. Our preference is to work with authors who have already been published through a royalty-paying press and who know the ins and outs of book promotion. An established social media platform is a must, and we will not consider writers who do not have a well-followed blog, Facebook page and/or Twitter account.
With this new venture, will you also still be offering the writers marketing, promotion, social media etc. to advertise their books, and brand themselves?
I am a big believer in the power of social media. I even conduct monthly blog tours for outside publishers and authors in order to help them increase the online presence of a book. Book bloggers are a powerful force in the book industry. With more and more book stores closing, and book review columns being cut from major newspapers, readers are depending on bloggers to help them find the books they want to read. They are turning to the internet as a reference point to fill this information gap.
In my opinion, social networking is the bread and butter of any author’s promotional efforts. Without it, it’s like trying to paddle upstream without a canoe. Readers want to connect with the person who wrote the book. They crave interaction with an author. Nothing beats getting a writer to comment on a blogger’s book review post or getting a personalized thank you tweet from your favorite author. The days of authors being isolated from their fans is over. They’re now able to build an online following and receive instant feedback for their work. They have the opportunity to take part in creating their own literary community.
We try to keep an active online presence with our web site:
(http://www.tribute-books.com/);
Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Archbal...
Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/TributeBooks); and,
Blog (http://tributebooks.blogspot.com/).
We’d love to have anyone who loves young adult literature to join us for the ride!
_____
There you have it everybody! And, I may not BE paranormal, but I truly believe I’m psychic! I have a feeling that Nicole Langan’s email is about to be packed!!! But read up on everything we’ve said here today before submitting, so that YOU are sure that your manuscript is the perfect fit to become one of the Tribute Books of 2012!
Until Next Time, Everybody!
Introducing…Michelle Horst
Two weeks ago I had the incredible honor of introducing all of you die-hard readers to a seriously wonderful debut author by the name of Michelle Horst. This is the woman who has begun the next huge YA series! Vaalbara: Visions and Shadows introduces a locale that everyone is falling in love with, and readers across the globe want to travel there right now!
Vaalbara is a world that is ‘out there,’ awaiting a very normal young woman who is bored beyond belief by her own life. She has questions, issues, and a type of self-esteem that makes her turn red in the face. The only person she feels remotely comfortable with is her imaginary friend, Sid. What is being hidden from our heroine - Aislinn - is monumental, but when a new student comes to school named Ryan, Aislinn’s world is soon turned upside down by this handsome, charming boy who talks like he’s from the 17th Century.
Precious Gems Publishing introduced Vaalbara: Visions and Shadows into the world, and fans are going crazy! In fact, THIS is the next YA that should be on the ‘big screen!’ Aislinn (soon to be, Alchera) is beloved by all female readers for her self-doubt covered up by her tremendously funny sarcasm. Ryan (soon to be Raighne) is a hero for any woman’s heart. He is a true warrior and protector and guards Alchera with his life. Unfortunately, there are ‘bad guys’ as well, who want to destroy Alchera before she takes on her destiny and succeeds. Add in a young man who is a real ‘bad boy,’ who Alchera finds herself falling for, and you have the plot of a seriously amazing novel that, thankfully, is only the first in the series!
There are so many authors delving into the YA world. And for a writer like me - who reads and reviews over fifty books a month - it was so unbelievably refreshing to come across a debut novelist who presents an entirely NEW and fresh story to the masses. But as I went more in-depth with this author, I also found a completely stunning individual with passion, drive and determination. Michelle Horst is someone who will soon add mentor, friend, icon, and other ‘titles’ to her resume, as the world finds out more and more about her and Vaalbara. And, today, you are about to be presented with the woman, herself.
Michelle Horst is the amazing mind behind this new series, and I am overjoyed to be one of the very first people on this planet who can say to all the entertainment magazines that, I knew her when! Without further adieu, here is the YA author blasting her way up the charts!
I would like to begin with your background in writing. Did you always wish to write? Or, was this one of those instances where Alchera’s story just came to mind and you had to write it down?
I used to dabble in poetry (not stuff I’d share with people anytime soon, LOL). But when I stopped working I had to do something to express myself. I tried various things from scrap booking to cleaning the house at three in the morning. Needless to say none of it filled the void.
2012 and Twilight previewed in the same year and both stories left a lingering hole in my soul that no book could fill, so I decided to try my hand at writing my very own. I began writing Vaalbara for myself. I wanted to write a story that I would want to read - with the romance and passion levels soaring, and focusing on a girl who had the right, fun attitude. I wanted to show that someone could go through hell and still come back from it.
I didn’t intend for Alchera to come alive the way she did. Six months later, when I opened the file for Vaalbara, I realized I was almost finished, and I guess that’s when it hit me that I was hooked.
Being a writer, and a debut one at that, this is a very solitary and lonely career to embark upon. Can you tell readers how you kept going even when writing became more than a bit of an obsession?
Since I opened my laptop at the beginning of 2010 we have not spent a day apart. Obsession is an understatement, if you want to capture in one word what writing has become to me. If you had to take it away from me I would simply wither away. The first thing I do when I wake up in the morning is write, and it’s the last thing I do before going to bed. I won’t deny that I’ve had my moments where I thought I was writing into the wind - where I knew my stories would never reach another’s eyes - but luckily I had a dear friend to encourage me. One email from her and every blank page turned into an adventure waiting to be discovered.
Raighne is one of the most handsome and interesting male heroes to come along in a good, long time. Is he based on anyone in particular?
Ooh, Raighne…
Yes, he is based on Ian Somerhalder. Ian is someone I respect very much. I drool when I see him on television and I want to salute him for his heart and strength. He is one of the most endearing humans on the planet, who spends every free minute trying to save ‘Mother Nature’ and every helpless animal. He has raised the ISF Foundation from nothing, and won my heart in doing so. I figured a man who cares so much for another, and looks so good, belongs on the pages of my book where he can take care of Alchera, who is a precious being to me.
Young Adult fiction is the biggest market at the moment. Are you a YA fan? Have you read YA’s in the past, or was this a completely new venture for you?
YA! I love it, and will most likely never grow out of it. I love the innocence that comes along with it and the ‘what could have been’ scenarios. It’s nice to dream every now and then. It isn’t the only genre I love, though. My passions cover quite a big range - from Thrillers to Action to - dare I say it? - just plain, old Romance. Oh, and I’m a sucker for a good Drama.
Let’s discuss Sid! Sid is a great “imaginary friend” to have. Do you, personally, have Sid as a friend? (No need to feel funny about your answer, seeing as that an Archangel with a lot of time on his hands seems to be mine. LOL)
Sid…the light of my life! I used to have a great sense of humor, but as I climbed the business ladder, it became kind of ‘squished’ into a box. As I started writing, I felt Alchera had more to say than just her normal sarcastic wit, and the only way I could get it across was by creating Sid. You could say Sid is that sense of humor we all have locked up somewhere that life has tried to take from us. Sid’s my hero who I speak to when I bump my toe or burn the dinner. Sid’s the one I poke in the ribs when Ian Somerhalder comes on TV. And I only share him with my closest friend who has an Archangel helping her. (Oops! Well, the secret is out now!)
Vaalbara is now becoming a series. Was it going to be a series when you first began to write?
No. I just wanted to write that ultimate story for myself, and look where that got me…now I can’t put my own book down! I’m not quite ready to let the characters go yet.
Did you base any of your characters on Greek or Roman history? Such as…the sisters could be ‘The Sirens,’ etc.?
No. I only stared at gorgeous actors and got my inspiration from them to create some of the characters. Eighty percent of the book is based on people I have met in my life, or things I have experienced.
This book takes a good long look at life and war, and the fact that if things keep going as is, this world may just come to an end and everyone will wish like heck they got to Vaalbara more quickly. What moral and/or morals, if any, would you like the reader to take away from this read?
I’d like the reader to take three things away from Vaalbara:
1) Treat nature with care and respect; we only have one Earth and she deserves better from us.
2) Hope is the heartbeat of the soul. You need hope to dream, and what are we without our dreams?
3) You need someone to trust, even if he’s just an imaginary friend. Life can be a lonely place full of shadows that you have to take on single-handedly, but it sure can be fun with Sid around.
Now…big screen glory. If you had the choice, who would star as Alchera and Raighne, seeing as that they could very well be the next ‘Bella & Edward?’
Raighne: Only one man can fill his shoes in my eyes and that’s, Ian Somerhalder…so a million times, Ian!
Alchera: This is hard. Vanessa Hudgens or Kristen Kreuk?
And the next book will be…?
Vaalbara: The Land of Shadows (although this still could change. ;)
_____
And last but not least, I always end with these special questions because readers love them. (You can call it an Ode to James Lipton)
What is your favorite word? Crap! I know, I should cut down on it.
What is your least favorite word? It’s actually three words: Oh my God! I cringe every time I hear it.
What turns you on? HUH? Seriously! I’m writing a book on the side. It’s another Y/A Fantasy. Wait for it and then read between the lines to learn the answer to this question. (LOL)
What turns you off? People who don’t appreciate what they have, and what life has to offer.
What sound or noise do you love? The silence of the night.
What sound or noise do you hate? Anything that’s recurring: A water tap dripping, someone tapping their fingers, a door banging, etc. Repetition drives me insane!
What profession, other than your own would, you like to attempt? Anything that will bring me closer to nature.
What profession would you not like to attempt? Anything Corporate.
If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates? I would give anything to hear Him say the words: You lived your life well, I’m proud of you.
Well, readers, I don’t think Michelle Horst will have any trouble hearing Him say that! Vaalbara: Visions and Shadows offers an amazing look at the world and the people in it. There is drama, romance, action, adventure, and an in-depth look into fear, and finding the ability to step out of the shadows to be victorious!
If you have not read this incredible novel, you are missing out on one of the best YA books to hit the market in decades!
Until Next Time, Everybody!
For more information go to:
www.preciousgemspublishing.com
http://www.michellehorst.com
Vaalbara is a world that is ‘out there,’ awaiting a very normal young woman who is bored beyond belief by her own life. She has questions, issues, and a type of self-esteem that makes her turn red in the face. The only person she feels remotely comfortable with is her imaginary friend, Sid. What is being hidden from our heroine - Aislinn - is monumental, but when a new student comes to school named Ryan, Aislinn’s world is soon turned upside down by this handsome, charming boy who talks like he’s from the 17th Century.
Precious Gems Publishing introduced Vaalbara: Visions and Shadows into the world, and fans are going crazy! In fact, THIS is the next YA that should be on the ‘big screen!’ Aislinn (soon to be, Alchera) is beloved by all female readers for her self-doubt covered up by her tremendously funny sarcasm. Ryan (soon to be Raighne) is a hero for any woman’s heart. He is a true warrior and protector and guards Alchera with his life. Unfortunately, there are ‘bad guys’ as well, who want to destroy Alchera before she takes on her destiny and succeeds. Add in a young man who is a real ‘bad boy,’ who Alchera finds herself falling for, and you have the plot of a seriously amazing novel that, thankfully, is only the first in the series!
There are so many authors delving into the YA world. And for a writer like me - who reads and reviews over fifty books a month - it was so unbelievably refreshing to come across a debut novelist who presents an entirely NEW and fresh story to the masses. But as I went more in-depth with this author, I also found a completely stunning individual with passion, drive and determination. Michelle Horst is someone who will soon add mentor, friend, icon, and other ‘titles’ to her resume, as the world finds out more and more about her and Vaalbara. And, today, you are about to be presented with the woman, herself.
Michelle Horst is the amazing mind behind this new series, and I am overjoyed to be one of the very first people on this planet who can say to all the entertainment magazines that, I knew her when! Without further adieu, here is the YA author blasting her way up the charts!
I would like to begin with your background in writing. Did you always wish to write? Or, was this one of those instances where Alchera’s story just came to mind and you had to write it down?
I used to dabble in poetry (not stuff I’d share with people anytime soon, LOL). But when I stopped working I had to do something to express myself. I tried various things from scrap booking to cleaning the house at three in the morning. Needless to say none of it filled the void.
2012 and Twilight previewed in the same year and both stories left a lingering hole in my soul that no book could fill, so I decided to try my hand at writing my very own. I began writing Vaalbara for myself. I wanted to write a story that I would want to read - with the romance and passion levels soaring, and focusing on a girl who had the right, fun attitude. I wanted to show that someone could go through hell and still come back from it.
I didn’t intend for Alchera to come alive the way she did. Six months later, when I opened the file for Vaalbara, I realized I was almost finished, and I guess that’s when it hit me that I was hooked.
Being a writer, and a debut one at that, this is a very solitary and lonely career to embark upon. Can you tell readers how you kept going even when writing became more than a bit of an obsession?
Since I opened my laptop at the beginning of 2010 we have not spent a day apart. Obsession is an understatement, if you want to capture in one word what writing has become to me. If you had to take it away from me I would simply wither away. The first thing I do when I wake up in the morning is write, and it’s the last thing I do before going to bed. I won’t deny that I’ve had my moments where I thought I was writing into the wind - where I knew my stories would never reach another’s eyes - but luckily I had a dear friend to encourage me. One email from her and every blank page turned into an adventure waiting to be discovered.
Raighne is one of the most handsome and interesting male heroes to come along in a good, long time. Is he based on anyone in particular?
Ooh, Raighne…
Yes, he is based on Ian Somerhalder. Ian is someone I respect very much. I drool when I see him on television and I want to salute him for his heart and strength. He is one of the most endearing humans on the planet, who spends every free minute trying to save ‘Mother Nature’ and every helpless animal. He has raised the ISF Foundation from nothing, and won my heart in doing so. I figured a man who cares so much for another, and looks so good, belongs on the pages of my book where he can take care of Alchera, who is a precious being to me.
Young Adult fiction is the biggest market at the moment. Are you a YA fan? Have you read YA’s in the past, or was this a completely new venture for you?
YA! I love it, and will most likely never grow out of it. I love the innocence that comes along with it and the ‘what could have been’ scenarios. It’s nice to dream every now and then. It isn’t the only genre I love, though. My passions cover quite a big range - from Thrillers to Action to - dare I say it? - just plain, old Romance. Oh, and I’m a sucker for a good Drama.
Let’s discuss Sid! Sid is a great “imaginary friend” to have. Do you, personally, have Sid as a friend? (No need to feel funny about your answer, seeing as that an Archangel with a lot of time on his hands seems to be mine. LOL)
Sid…the light of my life! I used to have a great sense of humor, but as I climbed the business ladder, it became kind of ‘squished’ into a box. As I started writing, I felt Alchera had more to say than just her normal sarcastic wit, and the only way I could get it across was by creating Sid. You could say Sid is that sense of humor we all have locked up somewhere that life has tried to take from us. Sid’s my hero who I speak to when I bump my toe or burn the dinner. Sid’s the one I poke in the ribs when Ian Somerhalder comes on TV. And I only share him with my closest friend who has an Archangel helping her. (Oops! Well, the secret is out now!)
Vaalbara is now becoming a series. Was it going to be a series when you first began to write?
No. I just wanted to write that ultimate story for myself, and look where that got me…now I can’t put my own book down! I’m not quite ready to let the characters go yet.
Did you base any of your characters on Greek or Roman history? Such as…the sisters could be ‘The Sirens,’ etc.?
No. I only stared at gorgeous actors and got my inspiration from them to create some of the characters. Eighty percent of the book is based on people I have met in my life, or things I have experienced.
This book takes a good long look at life and war, and the fact that if things keep going as is, this world may just come to an end and everyone will wish like heck they got to Vaalbara more quickly. What moral and/or morals, if any, would you like the reader to take away from this read?
I’d like the reader to take three things away from Vaalbara:
1) Treat nature with care and respect; we only have one Earth and she deserves better from us.
2) Hope is the heartbeat of the soul. You need hope to dream, and what are we without our dreams?
3) You need someone to trust, even if he’s just an imaginary friend. Life can be a lonely place full of shadows that you have to take on single-handedly, but it sure can be fun with Sid around.
Now…big screen glory. If you had the choice, who would star as Alchera and Raighne, seeing as that they could very well be the next ‘Bella & Edward?’
Raighne: Only one man can fill his shoes in my eyes and that’s, Ian Somerhalder…so a million times, Ian!
Alchera: This is hard. Vanessa Hudgens or Kristen Kreuk?
And the next book will be…?
Vaalbara: The Land of Shadows (although this still could change. ;)
_____
And last but not least, I always end with these special questions because readers love them. (You can call it an Ode to James Lipton)
What is your favorite word? Crap! I know, I should cut down on it.
What is your least favorite word? It’s actually three words: Oh my God! I cringe every time I hear it.
What turns you on? HUH? Seriously! I’m writing a book on the side. It’s another Y/A Fantasy. Wait for it and then read between the lines to learn the answer to this question. (LOL)
What turns you off? People who don’t appreciate what they have, and what life has to offer.
What sound or noise do you love? The silence of the night.
What sound or noise do you hate? Anything that’s recurring: A water tap dripping, someone tapping their fingers, a door banging, etc. Repetition drives me insane!
What profession, other than your own would, you like to attempt? Anything that will bring me closer to nature.
What profession would you not like to attempt? Anything Corporate.
If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates? I would give anything to hear Him say the words: You lived your life well, I’m proud of you.
Well, readers, I don’t think Michelle Horst will have any trouble hearing Him say that! Vaalbara: Visions and Shadows offers an amazing look at the world and the people in it. There is drama, romance, action, adventure, and an in-depth look into fear, and finding the ability to step out of the shadows to be victorious!
If you have not read this incredible novel, you are missing out on one of the best YA books to hit the market in decades!
Until Next Time, Everybody!
For more information go to:
www.preciousgemspublishing.com
http://www.michellehorst.com
October 20, 2011
How Does An Independent/Self-Published Author Get Their Book Reviewed?
New York Times Bestselling Author, C.J. Lyons, asked me to write an article for her site that would benefit authors: http://www.norulesjustwrite.com/blog/
I hope this will help....
-----------------------------------------
Lately, being able to receive reviews from actual ‘real’ reviewers is as long a process as actually writing the book, itself. There are, unfortunately, a breed of ‘scam’ artists in the reviewing industry as well that authors need to look out for. Novelists need to be very aware that if a ‘review package’ looks too good to be true, it most likely is.
Let’s begin with the wonderful site, Goodreads. This is a website that’s taking its place right at the top of the reviewing echelon, and offers a huge marketing platform that can stand up with the likes of Facebook and Twitter in giving an author the chance to brand and advertise themselves and their titles. Building up a following on Goodreads, as well as posting reviews on the site, beginning discussions, sharing information, and joining groups that specifically target the topic/plot of your work, will bring many book lovers to read your material and review it right on Goodreads, helping you to become an established name. Not only that, but a huge number of people on Goodreads have their own blogs that represent all genres, and they routinely ask guest bloggers, novelists, and reviewers to post on their site. This will not only give you an opportunity to garner a review for yourself, but as a guest you will be able to reach a wider group of readers.
Searching the web for review sites is also a huge undertaking. What novelists must remember is to not become so desperate for a review that they skip the research step. For every site that offers a review service or package, the author must do their homework. Go through many reviews that have already been done by the site and see if the reviewer actually read the book. You will soon become aware of some sites that offer either one line reviews, or reviews that simply re-word the author’s book summary.
Also, check and see if the site offers the author an interview in conjunction with the book review. These are usually very ‘stand-up’ sites that have a passion for their reviews and are striving to build a good name in the industry. Again…research. Delve into all the author interviews on the review site and see what questions were asked. Were they the normal ‘fluff’ such as: “When did you begin writing?” – or were the questions in-depth, focusing on the subject of the book? Were the questions personal, regarding the author’s goals and emotions, offering the chance for the author to express themselves in more than one line? Research, research, research…before you spend any money on a ‘review package.’
Review sites should also put all reviews up on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and even offer to Tweet and add the author’s novel to their own Facebook page – posting links to help the author receive even more ‘hits’ for their book.
There are many free review sites out there that are honorable, and true book lovers stand behind them. Again, you will note just from your research what other authors have said about that particular site; see if it is a place that comes highly recommended, with a good following of readers.
Search other author’s sites and blogs. Many independent authors like to ‘swap’ support with one another, and review each other’s book.
Make sure once you go general, like the above tips, that you also go ‘specialized.’ Such as: If you have written a book of fiction or nonfiction that perhaps deals with astrology, then search for all the astrological and horoscope blogs, magazines, and review sites out there and contact them. Tell them about your book and how it pertains to their readers. That way, you will not only be getting a review, but you will also ‘appear’ on a site that already loves you particular subject. For, say, a book on nature – or a future filled with electronic cars, solar power, etc. – there are a huge number of ecological/environmental sites and internet magazines that you can contact. If you have a historical locale in your novel, contact the Chamber of Commerce in that area who run the ‘site’ to see if they will promote or review your book. (i.e.: As a personal example, the haunted Winchester House plays a part in my new novel and I contacted the staff who run the site for help with promotion).
There are many extremely great review sites out there who have been around a good long time, and have built up an amazing reputation for themselves. These sites are also still very interested in reviewing debut authors, indies, and self-published writers. Some of my personal recommendations: The Feathered Quill, Bookpleasures.com, Once Upon a Romance, The RT (Romantic Times Magazine) - just to name a few. Also, there are internet magazines where an author can write articles, reviews, and offer information about their own books and how their particular plot or characters are targeted at a specific group of readers. (i.e.: Zimbio; The SOP; Wix, Bookbuzzr and more.)
Receiving a good, solid review from a ‘real’ reviewer who is passionate about reading, is not hopeless. Just research, find your target audience, and make sure not to put out money to a company that has not already earned the respect of book lovers, readers, editors, and writers across the board. There is no way to promise you a 5-star review, of course, but if you believe in your book and your writing – others will too!
About Amy:
Amy Lignor is a bestselling novelist of historical and adventure fiction, including the new action/adventure series titled, Tallent & Lowery. She is the Owner of The Write Companion, an editorial company that is very proud to say their authors have found publishers! And, recently, Amy has been asked to take on the job of Editor-in-Chief of Precious Gems Publishing – a new publishing company built BY authors FOR authors. Working in the publishing industry for fifteen years, Amy is very adamant about the treatment of new authors, and wants nothing more than to offer the writers who are being overlooked by the ‘Big Six’ the opportunity for their voices to be heard.
I hope this will help....
-----------------------------------------
Lately, being able to receive reviews from actual ‘real’ reviewers is as long a process as actually writing the book, itself. There are, unfortunately, a breed of ‘scam’ artists in the reviewing industry as well that authors need to look out for. Novelists need to be very aware that if a ‘review package’ looks too good to be true, it most likely is.
Let’s begin with the wonderful site, Goodreads. This is a website that’s taking its place right at the top of the reviewing echelon, and offers a huge marketing platform that can stand up with the likes of Facebook and Twitter in giving an author the chance to brand and advertise themselves and their titles. Building up a following on Goodreads, as well as posting reviews on the site, beginning discussions, sharing information, and joining groups that specifically target the topic/plot of your work, will bring many book lovers to read your material and review it right on Goodreads, helping you to become an established name. Not only that, but a huge number of people on Goodreads have their own blogs that represent all genres, and they routinely ask guest bloggers, novelists, and reviewers to post on their site. This will not only give you an opportunity to garner a review for yourself, but as a guest you will be able to reach a wider group of readers.
Searching the web for review sites is also a huge undertaking. What novelists must remember is to not become so desperate for a review that they skip the research step. For every site that offers a review service or package, the author must do their homework. Go through many reviews that have already been done by the site and see if the reviewer actually read the book. You will soon become aware of some sites that offer either one line reviews, or reviews that simply re-word the author’s book summary.
Also, check and see if the site offers the author an interview in conjunction with the book review. These are usually very ‘stand-up’ sites that have a passion for their reviews and are striving to build a good name in the industry. Again…research. Delve into all the author interviews on the review site and see what questions were asked. Were they the normal ‘fluff’ such as: “When did you begin writing?” – or were the questions in-depth, focusing on the subject of the book? Were the questions personal, regarding the author’s goals and emotions, offering the chance for the author to express themselves in more than one line? Research, research, research…before you spend any money on a ‘review package.’
Review sites should also put all reviews up on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and even offer to Tweet and add the author’s novel to their own Facebook page – posting links to help the author receive even more ‘hits’ for their book.
There are many free review sites out there that are honorable, and true book lovers stand behind them. Again, you will note just from your research what other authors have said about that particular site; see if it is a place that comes highly recommended, with a good following of readers.
Search other author’s sites and blogs. Many independent authors like to ‘swap’ support with one another, and review each other’s book.
Make sure once you go general, like the above tips, that you also go ‘specialized.’ Such as: If you have written a book of fiction or nonfiction that perhaps deals with astrology, then search for all the astrological and horoscope blogs, magazines, and review sites out there and contact them. Tell them about your book and how it pertains to their readers. That way, you will not only be getting a review, but you will also ‘appear’ on a site that already loves you particular subject. For, say, a book on nature – or a future filled with electronic cars, solar power, etc. – there are a huge number of ecological/environmental sites and internet magazines that you can contact. If you have a historical locale in your novel, contact the Chamber of Commerce in that area who run the ‘site’ to see if they will promote or review your book. (i.e.: As a personal example, the haunted Winchester House plays a part in my new novel and I contacted the staff who run the site for help with promotion).
There are many extremely great review sites out there who have been around a good long time, and have built up an amazing reputation for themselves. These sites are also still very interested in reviewing debut authors, indies, and self-published writers. Some of my personal recommendations: The Feathered Quill, Bookpleasures.com, Once Upon a Romance, The RT (Romantic Times Magazine) - just to name a few. Also, there are internet magazines where an author can write articles, reviews, and offer information about their own books and how their particular plot or characters are targeted at a specific group of readers. (i.e.: Zimbio; The SOP; Wix, Bookbuzzr and more.)
Receiving a good, solid review from a ‘real’ reviewer who is passionate about reading, is not hopeless. Just research, find your target audience, and make sure not to put out money to a company that has not already earned the respect of book lovers, readers, editors, and writers across the board. There is no way to promise you a 5-star review, of course, but if you believe in your book and your writing – others will too!
About Amy:
Amy Lignor is a bestselling novelist of historical and adventure fiction, including the new action/adventure series titled, Tallent & Lowery. She is the Owner of The Write Companion, an editorial company that is very proud to say their authors have found publishers! And, recently, Amy has been asked to take on the job of Editor-in-Chief of Precious Gems Publishing – a new publishing company built BY authors FOR authors. Working in the publishing industry for fifteen years, Amy is very adamant about the treatment of new authors, and wants nothing more than to offer the writers who are being overlooked by the ‘Big Six’ the opportunity for their voices to be heard.
October 16, 2011
Is There a Mystery Buried Under the Glastonbury Tor?
There is a place - a very special place - located in Glastonbury, a small town in Somerset, England. A place that comes up in many conversations, books and movies. This is not a surprise. After all, the myths and legends that have always surrounded this small community are numerous and well-known.
For Christians, it is believed that Glastonbury is where Joseph of Arimathea came with his men (the group numbering 13) to hide the Holy Grail, thrust his staff into Wearyall Hill, and produced the Glastonbury Thorn - the original thorn tree. It is also believed by many that King Arthur and his knights (the group numbering 13) entered the legendary island of Avalon through a ‘door’ in Glastonbury. In fact, in 1191 monks at the abbey claimed to have found the graves of Arthur and Guinevere to the south of the Lady Chapel of the Abbey Church. It has also been suggested that St. Michael’s Church - the remains of which still stand atop Glastonbury Tor - was the location where Michael and his angel brethren (another group of 13) entered the world to save, fight, defend, or bring law to the people of this earth.
There are colored lights seen (and photographed) in the sky over Glastonbury; and there are odd sounds and images that have been seen (and recorded) of ghostly figures that seem to inhabit the small town.
It was in 1935 however, when a landscape zodiac was first discovered. The ‘signs’ having been formed by natural features such as roads, streams and field boundaries that were situated around Glastonbury. This ancient zodiac was supposedly a perfect match to the stars above - a perfect match of 13 signs. Capricorn’s “eye” was a haystack; the wing of the Aquarius phoenix was a road laid in 1782; the sign of Cancer was a network of 18th century drainage ditches and paths. Many features ‘supposedly’ came together to show an ancient zodiac that leads people to the roofless, St. Michael’s Tower that sits atop the mysterious, Glastonbury Tor.
As everyone knows - fiction is fiction. BUT in every piece of fiction there is an undeniable fact that the fiction was built upon. In a remarkable new book that has just been released, this subject has been taken one step further. Perhaps there are facts embedded in the Arthurian legend, the legend of the Holy Grail, and the zodiac signs that could very well be put together to lead to a treasure that no one has even thought of yet.
Like The DaVinci Code, 13 (which is the first book in a brand new adventure series called, Tallent & Lowery), utilizes some very real facts that have been placed side-by-side in order to form a puzzle that has readers running to their computers in order to look up each and every detail.
Debates are already beginning over some of the very real characters and locations that this author has been able to piece together. From the mysteries that are inside the Winchester House in San Jose, California - to the ‘bloody’ streets of Whitechapel, readers are already discussing who The Ripper really was, and why a woman truly thought that there were ghosts living in her house that she had to listen to - all the while being completely obsessed over the number 13.
The author has also delved into the world of Aleister Crowley. Some see this man as a true visionary who brought the world different ideas and concepts - a pioneer, in fact, where the subjects of religion and science are concerned. Whereas others believe him to be exactly what he proclaimed himself to be - the Devil, personified.
Aleister Crowley, Jack the Ripper, Sarah Winchester, Andrew Carnegie, Rudolf Steiner - what could all these people from such completely different locations have to do with any myth or legend that may reside in the small town of Glastonbury? Well…in order to know the answer to that, one must begin the adventure.
A hint, perhaps? Included in the puzzle is information about The Golden Dawn, which was an organization that included some pretty popular members throughout time. Aleister Crowley, Rudolf Steiner - and even the poet, Yeats - were members. The meetings that occurred between these three men at various times throughout history is yet another piece of the puzzle that heads readers straight to Glastonbury.
This is a novel that reviewers are calling one of the best puzzles to ever be written, and the upside for all readers out there is that 13 is only the first of seven that are about to be told. Already, there are production companies debating on who should play the characters of Leah Tallent & Gareth Lowery - forty-something’s or the late-twenty-something’s that Hollywood has to offer. Could Shia LaBeouf personify a truly interesting bad guy that would bring readers into a whole new dimension? We‘ll have to find out.
But setting aside all the glitz, glamour and raves, the historical information and the weaving of people and places into a very real mystery is truly fascinating. And each and every piece of the puzzle is in direct relation to the 13th sign, and the reason why the zodiac was altered so long ago.
It is no surprise that this book begins inside the New York Public Library - one of the most amazing institutions that houses some of the most fascinating history ever written. And to be able to head from there into a haunted house, walk down a famous street, explore a home on the shores of Loch Ness where some truly mystical events once occurred, is a fantastic experience. Finding clues in the brilliant poetry of Poe and Yeats have readers rushing to embark on this amazing treasure hunt.
What is buried in Glastonbury and simply waiting to be uncovered? Tallent & Lowery will show you. This work of fiction that was built upon facts buried in the past, is a truly brilliant adventure.
Let the debates begin!
------------------------------
**NOTE to Readers:
The rankings have skyrocketed for Tallent & Lowery: 13, and there have been many readers who are begging for the ‘hard-copy’ book to be printed. Yes, Tallent & Lowery is only available as an eBook right now, but we HAVE heard from the millions who need that book in their hands as soon as possible. If you wish to be notified when the hard copy book is available, please let us know at amy@preciousgemspublishing.com.
For Christians, it is believed that Glastonbury is where Joseph of Arimathea came with his men (the group numbering 13) to hide the Holy Grail, thrust his staff into Wearyall Hill, and produced the Glastonbury Thorn - the original thorn tree. It is also believed by many that King Arthur and his knights (the group numbering 13) entered the legendary island of Avalon through a ‘door’ in Glastonbury. In fact, in 1191 monks at the abbey claimed to have found the graves of Arthur and Guinevere to the south of the Lady Chapel of the Abbey Church. It has also been suggested that St. Michael’s Church - the remains of which still stand atop Glastonbury Tor - was the location where Michael and his angel brethren (another group of 13) entered the world to save, fight, defend, or bring law to the people of this earth.
There are colored lights seen (and photographed) in the sky over Glastonbury; and there are odd sounds and images that have been seen (and recorded) of ghostly figures that seem to inhabit the small town.
It was in 1935 however, when a landscape zodiac was first discovered. The ‘signs’ having been formed by natural features such as roads, streams and field boundaries that were situated around Glastonbury. This ancient zodiac was supposedly a perfect match to the stars above - a perfect match of 13 signs. Capricorn’s “eye” was a haystack; the wing of the Aquarius phoenix was a road laid in 1782; the sign of Cancer was a network of 18th century drainage ditches and paths. Many features ‘supposedly’ came together to show an ancient zodiac that leads people to the roofless, St. Michael’s Tower that sits atop the mysterious, Glastonbury Tor.
As everyone knows - fiction is fiction. BUT in every piece of fiction there is an undeniable fact that the fiction was built upon. In a remarkable new book that has just been released, this subject has been taken one step further. Perhaps there are facts embedded in the Arthurian legend, the legend of the Holy Grail, and the zodiac signs that could very well be put together to lead to a treasure that no one has even thought of yet.
Like The DaVinci Code, 13 (which is the first book in a brand new adventure series called, Tallent & Lowery), utilizes some very real facts that have been placed side-by-side in order to form a puzzle that has readers running to their computers in order to look up each and every detail.
Debates are already beginning over some of the very real characters and locations that this author has been able to piece together. From the mysteries that are inside the Winchester House in San Jose, California - to the ‘bloody’ streets of Whitechapel, readers are already discussing who The Ripper really was, and why a woman truly thought that there were ghosts living in her house that she had to listen to - all the while being completely obsessed over the number 13.
The author has also delved into the world of Aleister Crowley. Some see this man as a true visionary who brought the world different ideas and concepts - a pioneer, in fact, where the subjects of religion and science are concerned. Whereas others believe him to be exactly what he proclaimed himself to be - the Devil, personified.
Aleister Crowley, Jack the Ripper, Sarah Winchester, Andrew Carnegie, Rudolf Steiner - what could all these people from such completely different locations have to do with any myth or legend that may reside in the small town of Glastonbury? Well…in order to know the answer to that, one must begin the adventure.
A hint, perhaps? Included in the puzzle is information about The Golden Dawn, which was an organization that included some pretty popular members throughout time. Aleister Crowley, Rudolf Steiner - and even the poet, Yeats - were members. The meetings that occurred between these three men at various times throughout history is yet another piece of the puzzle that heads readers straight to Glastonbury.
This is a novel that reviewers are calling one of the best puzzles to ever be written, and the upside for all readers out there is that 13 is only the first of seven that are about to be told. Already, there are production companies debating on who should play the characters of Leah Tallent & Gareth Lowery - forty-something’s or the late-twenty-something’s that Hollywood has to offer. Could Shia LaBeouf personify a truly interesting bad guy that would bring readers into a whole new dimension? We‘ll have to find out.
But setting aside all the glitz, glamour and raves, the historical information and the weaving of people and places into a very real mystery is truly fascinating. And each and every piece of the puzzle is in direct relation to the 13th sign, and the reason why the zodiac was altered so long ago.
It is no surprise that this book begins inside the New York Public Library - one of the most amazing institutions that houses some of the most fascinating history ever written. And to be able to head from there into a haunted house, walk down a famous street, explore a home on the shores of Loch Ness where some truly mystical events once occurred, is a fantastic experience. Finding clues in the brilliant poetry of Poe and Yeats have readers rushing to embark on this amazing treasure hunt.
What is buried in Glastonbury and simply waiting to be uncovered? Tallent & Lowery will show you. This work of fiction that was built upon facts buried in the past, is a truly brilliant adventure.
Let the debates begin!
------------------------------
**NOTE to Readers:
The rankings have skyrocketed for Tallent & Lowery: 13, and there have been many readers who are begging for the ‘hard-copy’ book to be printed. Yes, Tallent & Lowery is only available as an eBook right now, but we HAVE heard from the millions who need that book in their hands as soon as possible. If you wish to be notified when the hard copy book is available, please let us know at amy@preciousgemspublishing.com.
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