Jennifer Anderson's Blog, page 9
February 17, 2014
Swoon Reads
If you follow me on Twitter and FaceBook, you should be familiar with my posts about Swoon Reads. Its a new company, an off-shoot of MacMillan Publishing, that is trying something new in the world of publishing. They've opened their doors to all swoon-worthy YA/NA submissions and are letting the readers help decide. They've already selected their first book for publication this year.
I uploaded Need to Know on their site in December with plans to leave it there until June, when they will be selecting another round of books.
This concept is very interesting. Basically, they are letting readers share what they want in a new release. But here's the kicker. They don't want "Oh my god, so good" comments. While those are wonderful to receive, they want truthful, explanatory reviews of the submissions.
This is where you come in. They need your input. I need your input. Create an account ( I promise it doesn't hurt) and start reading. I want to know what you think. Be honest. If it doesn't work, tell me why. If you couldn't put it down, tell me what worked. I can only improve my craft with feedback.
Here's my submission, Need to Know. Who knows, you might have a hand in selecting the next run of books published!
Need to Know description:
Nineteen-year old Jessica Crispin’s long lost grandfather died, leaving a large inheritance. The catch? She has to find her mother and bring her home.
She turns to her father, who’s in jail for murder, for help. He directs her to a stack of unread letters sent to Jessica by her mother. With the letters in hand, she and best friend Violet set out on a string of road trips where she meets Jackson King. Dark hair, blue eyes and a knack for clever shirts, Jackson helps Jessica learn the truth that eventually leads to her mother.
Has too much time passed? Can anybody ever get over a parent leaving them behind? And when her journey ends, does she return to life as usual or begin a new one with Jackson?
I uploaded Need to Know on their site in December with plans to leave it there until June, when they will be selecting another round of books.
This concept is very interesting. Basically, they are letting readers share what they want in a new release. But here's the kicker. They don't want "Oh my god, so good" comments. While those are wonderful to receive, they want truthful, explanatory reviews of the submissions.
This is where you come in. They need your input. I need your input. Create an account ( I promise it doesn't hurt) and start reading. I want to know what you think. Be honest. If it doesn't work, tell me why. If you couldn't put it down, tell me what worked. I can only improve my craft with feedback.
Here's my submission, Need to Know. Who knows, you might have a hand in selecting the next run of books published!
Need to Know description:
Nineteen-year old Jessica Crispin’s long lost grandfather died, leaving a large inheritance. The catch? She has to find her mother and bring her home.
She turns to her father, who’s in jail for murder, for help. He directs her to a stack of unread letters sent to Jessica by her mother. With the letters in hand, she and best friend Violet set out on a string of road trips where she meets Jackson King. Dark hair, blue eyes and a knack for clever shirts, Jackson helps Jessica learn the truth that eventually leads to her mother.
Has too much time passed? Can anybody ever get over a parent leaving them behind? And when her journey ends, does she return to life as usual or begin a new one with Jackson?
February 14, 2014
Night Circus Review
In my attempt to NOT purchase new books to read, I grabbed an already bought copy of Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern from my bookshelf. After reading Divergent, I read somewhere that fans of the series enjoyed this book as well.
First off, how can pass this book by? Look at that cover! Love it. My copy had an additional page with the silhouette of a gentleman and lady on the front.
I'll admit, it took me awhile to really get into this book. I enjoy a little more angst or romance driven strife in my reading and the two main characters don't interact much in the beginning sections of the book.
Here's the blurb from GoodReads:
The circus arrives without warning. No announcements precede it. It is simply there, when yesterday it was not. Within the black-and-white striped canvas tents is an utterly unique experience full of breathtaking amazements. It is called Le Cirque des Rêves, and it is only open at night.
But behind the scenes, a fierce competition is underway: a duel between two young magicians, Celia and Marco, who have been trained since childhood expressly for this purpose by their mercurial instructors. Unbeknownst to them both, this is a game in which only one can be left standing. Despite the high stakes, Celia and Marco soon tumble headfirst into love, setting off a domino effect of dangerous consequences, and leaving the lives of everyone, from the performers to the patrons, hanging in the balance.
My heart ached for Celia and the torment her father put her through, while I felt bad for Marco, he seemed to manage well under the circumstances until he discovers the truth behind the game. The secondary characters added more than meager lines. They will eventually be the backbone to the solution.
I recommend this book but warn that you might feel lost, if this isn't your normal type of read. But keep with it. If anything, enjoy the pageantry of the game, the scenery of the circus and eventual emotional attachment you'll have for Celia and Marco.
First off, how can pass this book by? Look at that cover! Love it. My copy had an additional page with the silhouette of a gentleman and lady on the front.
I'll admit, it took me awhile to really get into this book. I enjoy a little more angst or romance driven strife in my reading and the two main characters don't interact much in the beginning sections of the book.
Here's the blurb from GoodReads:
The circus arrives without warning. No announcements precede it. It is simply there, when yesterday it was not. Within the black-and-white striped canvas tents is an utterly unique experience full of breathtaking amazements. It is called Le Cirque des Rêves, and it is only open at night.
But behind the scenes, a fierce competition is underway: a duel between two young magicians, Celia and Marco, who have been trained since childhood expressly for this purpose by their mercurial instructors. Unbeknownst to them both, this is a game in which only one can be left standing. Despite the high stakes, Celia and Marco soon tumble headfirst into love, setting off a domino effect of dangerous consequences, and leaving the lives of everyone, from the performers to the patrons, hanging in the balance.
My heart ached for Celia and the torment her father put her through, while I felt bad for Marco, he seemed to manage well under the circumstances until he discovers the truth behind the game. The secondary characters added more than meager lines. They will eventually be the backbone to the solution.
I recommend this book but warn that you might feel lost, if this isn't your normal type of read. But keep with it. If anything, enjoy the pageantry of the game, the scenery of the circus and eventual emotional attachment you'll have for Celia and Marco.
February 12, 2014
Get Connected
No matter if you're an aspiring writer, a published writer or a lover of crafts, the best way to stay motivated, is to get connected. Whether on-line or in-person, staying in touch with those that love what you love keeps you on the write track.
I have a deadline of August for a current WIP that I'm jazzed about but I have a 17 month old, a house to take care of, 2 school aged children and a husband. My plate is full and finding the time to write is proving difficult. Until I did what I used to do. I connected with my writer friends on Twitter and have now participate in 2 #1k1h and both times, the baby played and I wrote. The feeling of getting words down has not only proved cathartic but gets me closer to my end game goal.
But even for non-writers, the same is true. On a whim, I search #crochet and found tweets about patterns and tips.
So my advice this month is get out there and connect!
I have a deadline of August for a current WIP that I'm jazzed about but I have a 17 month old, a house to take care of, 2 school aged children and a husband. My plate is full and finding the time to write is proving difficult. Until I did what I used to do. I connected with my writer friends on Twitter and have now participate in 2 #1k1h and both times, the baby played and I wrote. The feeling of getting words down has not only proved cathartic but gets me closer to my end game goal.
But even for non-writers, the same is true. On a whim, I search #crochet and found tweets about patterns and tips.
So my advice this month is get out there and connect!
January 31, 2014
February Challenge
Okay, how are your abs doing? Mine? Meh. Some days were better than others but in the end, I'm glad I at least tried.
Now, for the month of February, how about we try a plank challenge. At the end of the ab challenge, we had to do a 2 min plank. It was tough but we managed. Now, we get to start out slow again.
Good luck and let me know how you're doing.
For those with an iPhone, I suggest using the stopwatch on your clock. I know it seems obvious, but it took me a few times to remember I had it!
Now, for the month of February, how about we try a plank challenge. At the end of the ab challenge, we had to do a 2 min plank. It was tough but we managed. Now, we get to start out slow again.
Good luck and let me know how you're doing.
For those with an iPhone, I suggest using the stopwatch on your clock. I know it seems obvious, but it took me a few times to remember I had it!
JM Kelley Writes
I'm over talking with my friend JM Kelley today. Stop by, drop a line for heaven's sake ignore the typos. Lack of sleep and no caffiene are a disastrous combination.
January 17, 2014
Featured Author and January Savings
I woke up on Thursday to find that I'm the featured author on TMP's bookstore website! Woot!
Even better, they are running a January special in honor of Hot Tea and Mental Health Awareness Month. I don't know about you, but I love to unwind with a cup of something hot and a good book. Nothing does my mental health good then to escape into the pages of a good book.
So, you can take advantage and do your wallet some good and save 40% on all TMP titles by using the code JAN2014.
To take advantage of future saving and notification, join their email list. They won't sell your info just notify you of deals and new releases.
Even better, they are running a January special in honor of Hot Tea and Mental Health Awareness Month. I don't know about you, but I love to unwind with a cup of something hot and a good book. Nothing does my mental health good then to escape into the pages of a good book.
So, you can take advantage and do your wallet some good and save 40% on all TMP titles by using the code JAN2014.
To take advantage of future saving and notification, join their email list. They won't sell your info just notify you of deals and new releases.
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January 16, 2014
Ab Challenge Update
I know I promised a picture of the challenge I'm doing and I hope to get one up soon.
Its January 16th and I'm actually on day 14 on the calendar. I started on the 5th but skipped ahead the other day. And trust me, without letting my body slowly catch up and add additional reps, my body felt it. So I'm thinking I still will feel the same at the end.
My tailbone is sore so I'm using an exercise ball and yesterday I did 60 sit-ups, 75 crunches, 40 leg raises and 50s plank and today is the first day my abs have ached. I'm thinking the ball was a good addition.
In order to catch up and be done on the last day or the month, I plan to skip 2 more rest days and hope to be on track.
How are you doing?
Its January 16th and I'm actually on day 14 on the calendar. I started on the 5th but skipped ahead the other day. And trust me, without letting my body slowly catch up and add additional reps, my body felt it. So I'm thinking I still will feel the same at the end.
My tailbone is sore so I'm using an exercise ball and yesterday I did 60 sit-ups, 75 crunches, 40 leg raises and 50s plank and today is the first day my abs have ached. I'm thinking the ball was a good addition.
In order to catch up and be done on the last day or the month, I plan to skip 2 more rest days and hope to be on track.
How are you doing?
January 9, 2014
12 Month Challenge
Have you ever participated in NaNo? Well, I have 3x (2013 was a big fat failure) and each time I prove one thing to myself. If I set my mind to something, I can achieve it!
Well, instead of a month, I'm setting out for monthly goals. Twelve to be exact.
Do you have a Pinterest account? Do you ever notice those pins about a 30 day ab challenge or a 30 day butt challenge? Instead of doing just one, I'm attempting to do a challenge a month for a year. I know, a lofty goal for me, but I like the idea of having something I can check off each day.
Do I think I'm going to succeed? No clue but I'm hoping by putting this out there, you'll help keep me honest.
Wanna follow along? Find me on Pinterest, follow my 12 month challenge board. I'll post here every month what challenge I'm doing and try to slip in an update or two on my progress. I'd love to hear how you're doing, too.
For January, I'm doing the 30 Day Ab Challenge. I'm on day 4 today (started a little late), which is a rest day. If I'm feeling ballsy, I'll try and catch up so I can be done by the end of the month.
What I'm finding interesting is my kids joined in. Of course, they've been home for a few days because of Snowmagedon but exercise is exercise and if I can set at least one positive example for them, then its a win-win.
Take at look at the challenges I've pinned. There are more than 12 but I'd rather have too many then not enough. Is there one I'm missing? If we start a challenge and feel it's not worth the time or I'm not seeing any benefit, we might jump around and do one we've already done.
I'd love to hear your thoughts. Leave a comment and share with your friends. Remember, the more people that know, the more that will keep you honest...and me, too!
Well, instead of a month, I'm setting out for monthly goals. Twelve to be exact.
Do you have a Pinterest account? Do you ever notice those pins about a 30 day ab challenge or a 30 day butt challenge? Instead of doing just one, I'm attempting to do a challenge a month for a year. I know, a lofty goal for me, but I like the idea of having something I can check off each day.
Do I think I'm going to succeed? No clue but I'm hoping by putting this out there, you'll help keep me honest.
Wanna follow along? Find me on Pinterest, follow my 12 month challenge board. I'll post here every month what challenge I'm doing and try to slip in an update or two on my progress. I'd love to hear how you're doing, too.
For January, I'm doing the 30 Day Ab Challenge. I'm on day 4 today (started a little late), which is a rest day. If I'm feeling ballsy, I'll try and catch up so I can be done by the end of the month.
What I'm finding interesting is my kids joined in. Of course, they've been home for a few days because of Snowmagedon but exercise is exercise and if I can set at least one positive example for them, then its a win-win.
Take at look at the challenges I've pinned. There are more than 12 but I'd rather have too many then not enough. Is there one I'm missing? If we start a challenge and feel it's not worth the time or I'm not seeing any benefit, we might jump around and do one we've already done.
I'd love to hear your thoughts. Leave a comment and share with your friends. Remember, the more people that know, the more that will keep you honest...and me, too!
December 31, 2013
New Year Reading Goal
I know what your thinking. Just give a number to GoodReads and call it a day.
No.
I'm not worried about quantity this year. Heck, I have plenty sleepless nights where a good book comes in hand. I'm talking about quality (not that the YA/NA books I devour are not quality because they are unless I get a stinker). Books that enrich my mind and offer up knowledge.
For example, I'm hooked on the show Reign. It has everything I love: drama, romance, history. But as I'm watching and the show goes to credits, I'm curious about what really happened. So, to start things off, I've marked to read a book, mixed with a little fiction but based on actual events, about Mary Stuart.
I'm currently reading On Writing by Stephen King, which doesn't feel like a teachy book but a interesting perspective on writing.
In 2014, I'll still read my full of YA and NA but to break up the drama and lust, I plan to mix in a dollop of real drama or tips of the trade.
Do you have any suggestions? What Non-Fiction or How To books changed your life? Share away!
No.
I'm not worried about quantity this year. Heck, I have plenty sleepless nights where a good book comes in hand. I'm talking about quality (not that the YA/NA books I devour are not quality because they are unless I get a stinker). Books that enrich my mind and offer up knowledge.
For example, I'm hooked on the show Reign. It has everything I love: drama, romance, history. But as I'm watching and the show goes to credits, I'm curious about what really happened. So, to start things off, I've marked to read a book, mixed with a little fiction but based on actual events, about Mary Stuart.
I'm currently reading On Writing by Stephen King, which doesn't feel like a teachy book but a interesting perspective on writing.
In 2014, I'll still read my full of YA and NA but to break up the drama and lust, I plan to mix in a dollop of real drama or tips of the trade.
Do you have any suggestions? What Non-Fiction or How To books changed your life? Share away!
December 26, 2013
You take one down and pass it around...
When I started out writing, I asked a writer friend, "What do I do now?" And lucky for me, she didn't ignore my email but replied with a novel of advice.
Recently, my FIL informed me he'd like to write a book. An inspirational bit based on what he's learned from life and business. Seeing as how I often turned to him for advice, I found it to be a grand idea. And with this new adventure, I feel the need to pass along some writerly advice.
1. Keep writing. If you have the time, put yourself on a writing schedule. But learn when you feel most productive. For me, its at night. Trust, when times get busy, you'll thank yourself for making it a priority.
2. Keep learning. Whether you're poor at grammar or your characters are tech savvy, you need to stay sharp and focused. Your info needs to be current and readers need to relate. Learning can be as simple as reading more books. Writers are readers first. We love books. So do something you love. Read.
3. You're not perfect. That first draft will be bad. Confront that realization now and learn from it. I have several manuscripts sitting in my computer that are dying a slow death. They are not great. That first sentence you write will need improvement. But as along as you realize that editing is a must and move on, you will survive. Get the words out. They are not set in stone. You can change them and mold them into something great.
4. Make writer friends. This is a tough business and the more writer people you surround yourself with, the better the journey can be. I was lucky to start out with a writer friend but per her advice, I put myself out there. Twitter, The Writing Cooler, FB. There I met some great people who I not only talk to today on a daily basis but we share our stuff and learn from each other.
5. Become a beta reader. I know, in your spare time when you're not trying to have a life, work, and write, I'm now telling you to read other peoples' work. Yes. I learn so much by reading and helping others. Sure, my first time out was TERRIBLE! The author was mean, arrogant and basically told me I sucked. But, I moved on and found better people. And you can, too.
6. Finish your manuscript. You can't share your work with the world unless you finish it.
7. Edit and then edit again. I have read a manuscript for a writer bestie of mine like 4 times! Granted, the story changed a few times but each round made it stronger and stronger. You know where that manuscript is now? Sitting in hardback form on my book shelf!
8. Know when to take a step back. I'll say this everyday of my life. Writing is hard. There are days when words will not flow. Characters will not cooperate and life takes the wheel. When this happens, step back from your writing. You need to live a life in order to write about life. So live it. Then pull your big girl panties back on (or boxers!) and write. Getting frustrated will only lead to anger and an unfinished manuscript.
I hope this little bit has inspired you. I know I feel recharged after writing it. Share what you learn with others and have a happy, productive, writery New Year!
Recently, my FIL informed me he'd like to write a book. An inspirational bit based on what he's learned from life and business. Seeing as how I often turned to him for advice, I found it to be a grand idea. And with this new adventure, I feel the need to pass along some writerly advice.
1. Keep writing. If you have the time, put yourself on a writing schedule. But learn when you feel most productive. For me, its at night. Trust, when times get busy, you'll thank yourself for making it a priority.
2. Keep learning. Whether you're poor at grammar or your characters are tech savvy, you need to stay sharp and focused. Your info needs to be current and readers need to relate. Learning can be as simple as reading more books. Writers are readers first. We love books. So do something you love. Read.
3. You're not perfect. That first draft will be bad. Confront that realization now and learn from it. I have several manuscripts sitting in my computer that are dying a slow death. They are not great. That first sentence you write will need improvement. But as along as you realize that editing is a must and move on, you will survive. Get the words out. They are not set in stone. You can change them and mold them into something great.
4. Make writer friends. This is a tough business and the more writer people you surround yourself with, the better the journey can be. I was lucky to start out with a writer friend but per her advice, I put myself out there. Twitter, The Writing Cooler, FB. There I met some great people who I not only talk to today on a daily basis but we share our stuff and learn from each other.
5. Become a beta reader. I know, in your spare time when you're not trying to have a life, work, and write, I'm now telling you to read other peoples' work. Yes. I learn so much by reading and helping others. Sure, my first time out was TERRIBLE! The author was mean, arrogant and basically told me I sucked. But, I moved on and found better people. And you can, too.
6. Finish your manuscript. You can't share your work with the world unless you finish it.
7. Edit and then edit again. I have read a manuscript for a writer bestie of mine like 4 times! Granted, the story changed a few times but each round made it stronger and stronger. You know where that manuscript is now? Sitting in hardback form on my book shelf!
8. Know when to take a step back. I'll say this everyday of my life. Writing is hard. There are days when words will not flow. Characters will not cooperate and life takes the wheel. When this happens, step back from your writing. You need to live a life in order to write about life. So live it. Then pull your big girl panties back on (or boxers!) and write. Getting frustrated will only lead to anger and an unfinished manuscript.
I hope this little bit has inspired you. I know I feel recharged after writing it. Share what you learn with others and have a happy, productive, writery New Year!
