Keli Gwyn's Blog, page 25

Sneak Peek Readers

Amazon’s “Look Inside” feature gives readers the chance to do just that. It’s a great way for online customers to see if they like a book before placing an order.

The “Look Inside” feature was activated on my debut novel this past Friday night. I happened to be on my book’s Amazon’s page at the very time they were uploading the file my publisher had sent them.

[image error]

I learned that Amazon uploads the entire file and then deletes the pages that aren’t part of the preview. At first, almost every one of the 320 pages in my book were visible.

Once they completed the process, around 50 pages remained. Most are from the first three chapters. There’s a small section in the middle from one of my favorite scenes. Much to my surprise, most of the last chapter is visible, too, which struck me as being a big spoiler.

My first reaction was to freak out a bit. My second? OK. I’ll admit it. I emailed my agent. Rachelle got right back to me–on a Saturday, no less–and gave me great counsel. She said not to worry about it because those who read the last chapter want a spoiler.

Duh! I knew that. Really I did. After all, I’ve heard some readers say they flip to the end of a book to make sure it has a good ending before they buy it.

An even bigger “ah ha!” moment followed. Only fifty pages or so are included in Amazon’s preview, and yet all the pages will be visible when the book hits the shelves of Walmart and brick and mortar bookstores.

This experience got me wondering how many readers like to get a sneak peek. Bearing in mind that I’m simply curious and not out to judge anyone, do you look inside a book before buying it? If so, do you read the first page, the first chapter, and/or flip to the end?

Filed under: Reading Tagged: A Bride Opens Shop in El Dorado California, Amazon's Look Inside Feature, Keli Gwyn

Friday Fun Victorian Style

One word that describes the Victorian woman with regard to fashion is modest.

Women in the Victorian era followed rigid guidelines regarding conduct, conversation, and clothing. A lady could relax her dress some in the evening, perhaps showing a bit of her neck and a minimal portion of her chest, but by day a Victorian woman was generally covered from her head to her toes, with only her face visible beneath her stylish bonnet.

Clothing was often worn a number of times before it was laundered. One of  the ways they would keep a gown looking fresh was to change the collar frequently.

Here are three pictures of an accessory used by Victorian women for decoration as well as for filling in the neckline of a bodice to achieve the desired level of modesty.

Click to view slideshow.

Can you guess the name of the item? Since it’s an unusual word that comes to us from the French language, I’ll give you the five letters, but I’ll mix them up: h i c u f.

Leave your guess in a comment. Once you’ve done that, click this link to see the answer.

You’ll need a password, but it’s an easy one. It’s the word Romance – with a capital R.

Filed under: Fun & Friends, Research Tagged: Keli Gwyn, Victorian Fashion Accessories, Victorian Guessing Game

Romance: It’s All in a Name

Honey. Sugar. Sweetheart.

These are but a few of the terms of endearment many couples use.

But not Gwynly and me. We’ve come up with some of our own.

My guy often calls me Wifely, and I call him Hubbly. Yeah, I know. Really original.

Early in our marriage, we coined two terms of endearment I’ve never heard anyone else use. They stemmed from the traditional “Dear,” but grew into something unique.

I’ve always been one to make up words. That was one of the ways my creativity found release in my pre-writing days. Gwynly learned this while we were dating, so it came as no surprise to him that “Dear” morphed into “Dear-face” soon after we were married.

What was surprising was Gwynly’s response. I knew he had a sense of humor, but I’d yet to see it show itself in wordplay. He took my “Dear-face” and changed it into “Deer-face,” which led to a pet name I can’t believe I’m admitting in the intimacy of the Internet.

And what is the clever name Gwynly’s gal answers to?

Doe-buns.

Now most women might not find being likened to Faline’s backside romantic, but since I’m sure Bambi found that particular attribute of hers attractive, I’m fine with the name.

• • •

What pet names do you and your special someone use–that you’ll admit to in public?

If you’re not married, what special names were you called as a child?

Filed under: Romance Tagged: Keli Gwyn, Romance,

Book Buying Choices: New or Used?

Our local Christian bookstore closed its doors for the last time this past Friday.

The owner fought valiantly to keep the doors open as long as he could, but after eight years, Jireh’s couldn’t survive. I’d gotten to know Bryan and asked him what led to the closure. His answer: the advent of e-books and the sluggish economy.

I watched with admiration as Bryan made every effort to stave off the inevitable. One of his attempts was to buy used books from customers and resell them. Just before the end, the number of used books in the fiction section was almost double that of new books.

Seeing the used book section in Jireh’s made me question my buying habits. When I went in the store, I gravitated to the new books section. Knowing that buying used books doesn’t help authors’ sales stats, most of the time I chose new books.

Amazon offers used copies of books within days of their release. Do they tempt me? Nope. My reason is the same. I’m eager to support authors.

Do I ever buy used books? You betcha. As a historical author, I often hear of out-of-print titles I just gotta have, and I buy previously owned copies.

For instance, a certain 120-year-old etiquette book I mentioned in my previous post arrived last week. Even though it’s been well used, I treasure it.

• • •

How about you? Do you buy second-hand books, new books or both?

Filed under: Reading Tagged: Keli Gwyn, New and Used Books, Reading Habits

Friday Fun Victorian Style

The Victorians loved flowers, so much so that they had a language of flowers.

In my recently purchased reference book, Manners: Culture and Dress, published in 1892 (yes, I’m the proud owner of a book that’s 120 years old!), the author devoted an entire chapter to the language of flowers, filling nine pages with lengthy lists that matched a certain type of flower with a particular meaning, e.g. a white poppy meant sleep.

Romance thrived in the Victorian era, so it will come as no surprise that a number of the meanings listed dealt with that all-important topic: love.

Unmarried couples were bound by rigid social strictures with regard to courting, which often stifled conversation. They were inhibited by the requisite chaperones, too, so they found other ways to communicate, the exchange of flowers being one of them. Thus, the ability to speak using the language of flowers must have been a skill they sought to acquire.

If a gentleman wanted to let a lady knew he had feelings for her, he had many options. Here are three flowers he might have chosen, along with their meanings.

honeysuckle ~ bond of love

a rosebud on moss ~ confession of love

a yellow tulip ~ declaration of  love

If a lady had received one of these flowers from her suitor, he would’ve expected a reply. If she had difficulty conveying her answer by either spoken or written word due to those ever-present chaperones or a meddling mama, she could have followed her beau’s lead, presenting him with a flower she’d chosen based on its meaning.

Following are three possible responses she might have given him, along with the three corresponding flowers, with each group listed in alphabetical order.

Can you match each flower with its meaning?

The Flowers

acacia rose

garden daisy

tansy

The Meanings

I declare against you.

I share your sentiments.

platonic love – friendship

• • •

Leave your guess in a comment. Once you’ve done that, click this link to see the answer.

You’ll need a password, but it’s an easy one. It’s the word Romance – with a capital R.

• • •

I’ve updated the Friday Fun post from last week.  You can click this link to see the answer.

Filed under: Fun & Friends, Research

The Healing Power of Romance

The siren of the snow-capped Sierras has my hubby on speed dial, calling him with an invitation to grab his cross-country skis and explore her majestic peaks and valleys.

Many Saturdays, my guy spends several enjoyable hours doing just that.

Not this past Saturday, though. The siren called, but Gwynly didn’t answer.

The snow-covered Sierra Nevada Mountains - minus my guy

Friday had been a cranberry juice kinda day for me. I took two over-the-counter tablets and hoped some pesky germs would take the hint and git.

By Saturday morning, I knew I needed to see the doctor. Normally Gwynly would have been en route to the mountains by the time I dragged myself out of bed and arranged to visit the local rapid care clinic, but he wasn’t.

Gwynly stayed home and cared for me. He drove me to the appointment, the pharmacy, and Carl’s Jr. (I don’t like to cook on good days but do so anyway. On bad days, forget it.)

After the meal, Gwynly took me home, where he hung around, offering me all the water I could drink, a generous serving of “poor babys,” and all the sympathy a gal could want.

I spent hours curled up on the couch bemoaning the fact that I couldn’t get my daily dose of exercise. I was in no shape to walk six miles, but I didn’t want to miss my first day since beginning my regimen last November. If I could walk in the rain, surely I could limp along once the antibiotics kicked in.

Gwynly said no. He’s Mr. Exercise, so I knew he wouldn’t say that if it weren’t the best thing for me. So there I lay in my snuggly soft, polka-dot, frumpy-to-the-max sweat outfit feeling like a slug–and looking every bit as appealing.

But what did Gwynly do? He came over, stroked my hair, and kissed me ever so gently, proving once again that romance isn’t all peaches and roses. Sometimes it’s sacrifice, selflessness, and petal-soft kisses given at just the right moment.

My symptoms have faded, but the memories of Gwynly’s TLC will last a long time.

• • •

What makes you feel cherished when you’re not feeling well?

Can you recall a time when your special someone–or someone special to you–made a sacrifice on your behalf? How did that make you feel?

• • •

I’m privileged to be the featured guest on Jessica Nelson’s blog, Booking It, today.

Filed under: Romance Tagged: romance and kisses

Meet the Reviewers: Anne Payne

I’m delighted to have Anne Payne as my guest. She’s a book reviewer who writes heartfelt reviews on her lovely blog Stuff and Nonsense II. That makes sense, because she’s a woman with a big heart. I’ve been blessed by her many times.

Anne wears many hats. In addition to avid reader and book reviewer, she’s a busy wife, mother and home educator. She and her husband live in the beautiful Foothills of North Carolina. They have four children and two delightful grandchildren.

When Anne isn’t reading or teaching, she can often be found crafting. She is a scrapbooker and cardmaker who’s taken a recent interest in altered art.

I asked Anne three questions about her reading and review process. After that, you’re in for a treat, because you get to learn three fun things about the woman behind the reviews.

Reading and Reviewing

What led you to start reviewing books on your blog? When did you post your first review? How has the site changed over time, and what can readers expect in the future?

I wanted to be part of a book club. Since I live out in the boonies, and there wasn’t one out here (call me “duh” but I never thought to start my own), I started searching online. I mean, you can find everything else online so why not a book club, right? After many hours of surfing the web, I came across The Book Club Network (YAY!) and joined right up. Then I found out there were free books out there. Free?! So I started entering contests to win those books. I won a lot of books! After awhile, another reviewer that I visited on a regular basis encouraged me to sign up with WaterBrook Multnomah’s Blogging for Books program.

I requested my first book, When Sparrows Fall by Meg Moseley, and posted my review on March 31, 2011. At the time, I was on Blogger because it’s free. They started having some real frustrating issues last spring and summer. If you’re on there you’ll remember. After hearing me complain (yes, I did so loudly), my husband encouraged me to purchase my own domain name and build my own site for book reviewing. That’s a whole other venture that makes me crazy sometimes! I am always changing small things with the site, but I do try to have a little consistency. I’m still finding my niche but hopefully as this year progresses I will be a little more consistent. That’s my main challenge. I mean, I have two blogs now, take care of a fairly large family and must get in my baby holding time

My friends, Judy & Rebecca, have recently begun contributing reviews so I think that will add some dimension. Plus, Judy is also using it as a personal ministry and offering her books for giveaways. Combining interesting author interviews and giveaways with well written reviews, our goal is to be a blessing to others who are looking for good books to read!

If there’s an aspect of a story you don’t care for, you address it, but you do so in a loving way. How do you balance a reader’s desire for an honest review with your heart for the author of the work?

I’m a firm believer that there is something good to find in any book I’ve chosen to read. I just have to look for it. I try to concentrate on that first then address anything else, while keeping in mind that reviewing is subjective. It’s my opinion. Plain and simple. Someone else may read the book and have a totally different one.

Being a crafter, even though I’m not a great one, I know that when I create something, I have put a part of myself in that piece. When someone doesn’t like it, I’m ok with that, but if they slam it, it hurts. I don’t want to hurt anyone like that, and see no reason to, so I don’t criticize the author’s writing ability. My goal is to only give thoughts on the story itself. The publishing houses have some great guidelines to go by as well, so that helps in structuring my reviews. I also learn from other reviewers.

When and where do you do most of your reading?

Anywhere and everywhere! I always have a book with me, whether it’s a “real” one or a digital one on my Kindle Fire that my husband gave me for Christmas. I even stand at the stove and cook while reading. Now that’s a skill!

Three Fun Facts About Anne

I enjoyed reading your post about how your love of McDonald’s led to you meeting the love of your life. When your former burger-building guy takes you out to eat these days, what are some of your top restaurant choices? I’m curious. Is McD’s one of them?

LOL! No, McD’s is not one of them. We love Japanese. There’s a little hole-in-the-wall restaurant we frequent that serves some pretty good Spring rolls and Yaki-Soba noodles. Tuesday evening is a regular date night at Atlanta Bread while our boys are at the Civil Air Patrol. I love the time my husband and I spend together no matter where it is, but those nights we enjoy sipping on coffee and sharing a cookie…or two.

Cardmaking. Scrapbooking. Making altered books. Wow! You’re one talented woman. Of all your creations, which are your favorites?

Baby mini albums, hands down! Especially if it’s for a girl…lots of pink and lace and delicate papers! So y’all be praying this new grandbaby is a girl, ok? ’Cause I need a real good excuse to get all my craft supplies back out! Right now they’re in boxes due to a kitchen renovation project, but that’s another story for another time.

If we were to sneak a peek in your purse, what are three things we’d learn about you?

Oh, Keli! You’re a sneaky one with this question (pun intended). Hmmm…what do I want to admit to?

I’m not organized. My oldest son calls my purse “the Abyss!” Even with compartments, everything ends up in the bottom because I’m always in a hurry.

I like pens. Need one? I have standard black, a teal blue, or bright pink. Take your pick.

And even though I love being a grandma, I would probably be categorized as a bad one because I have no pictures of my adorable grandsons in my purse. In my defense, it’s the age of digital. They’re all on my computer!

Anne’s Question for You

What keeps you coming back to a particular blog? Is there anything that will make you stay away? Because…you know…I want to avoid that.

• • •

Connect with Anne on Goodreads.

Filed under: Guests, Reading Tagged: Anne Payne, Christian Book Reviewer, Inspirational Book Reviewer, Keli Gwyn

Romance: It's for the Birds

I take romance seriously. I also take my need for exercise seriously. The two come together when Gwynly joins me on my frequent walks.

One day not long ago, we hiked the trail in the rain. Few people were out, but the birds were plentiful. We'd just started walking when I noticed a beautiful blue Steller's Jay.

As we continued, we encountered a covey of quail scuttling across the trail, saw sparrows flit from tree to tree, and heard a riot of birdsong.

And then I saw a bird the most vivid shade of blue I'd ever seen perched in a pine. I talk to our cats, so it came naturally to me to call out. "Hello, birdie! What a vivid blue you are."

My memorable sighting.

Gwynly gave me a "what are you doing?" look and burst out laughing.

Now, my guy has a good sense of humor and will laugh with me, but rarely does he laugh at me. And yet, that's what he was doing.

Since I knew he wasn't laughing because I was talking to a bird, I wondered what had caused him to crack up. His gaze darted from me to the branch I'd pointed out.

I stopped, turned, and studied the sight that had caught my eye. And I stared in disbelief.

The brilliant blue "bird" was not a bird at all. What I'd seen from a distance was a plastic bag that a pet owner had filled after a dog had done its deed and had flung into the trees.

Yup. I'd just complimented a packet of dog poop.

Um. Nope. That's definitely not a bird.

The humor of the situation struck me, and I burst out laughing.

When Gwynly and I passed by the spot on our return trip, he made sure to point out the "doo doo bird," which he told me that he's heard has replaced the extinct dodo bird.

Doo doo bird dispenser

Our conversation on the return trip was much more lighthearted as we recounted my unique sighting than it was when we began. Each time I recall the incident, I'm reminded that romance doesn't have to be a serious pursuit. Spending time laughing with my guy can be lotsa fun, too.

• • •

Do you and your special someone infuse your romance with laughter?

Do you have a funny story about the lighthearted side of romance that you can share?

Steller's Jay image from iStockPhoto

Filed under: Fun & Friends, Romance Tagged: funny romance stories, hiking trail fun, Keli Gwyn, Romance, romance and humor, romance and laughter, Steller's Jay

Welcome Author Jessica Nelson

Jessica Nelson is someone I really look up to. Sure, she's tall and I'm not, but that's not what I mean. Jessie is fun, friendly, and generous. Visit her blog, Booking It, and you'll see what I mean. I learn lots from her—and she makes me smile at the same time.

Jessie's debut novel, Love on the Range, is a Love Inspired Historical romance, and it's on shelves now. This engaging tale of a rancher and reporter at odds received 4 ½ stars from RT Book Reviews!

Jessie, in keeping with her romantic inclinations, married just two days after she graduated  from high school. She believes romance happens every day, and thinks the greatest, most intense romance comes from a God who woos people to himself with passionate tenderness.

When Jessie isn't chasing her three beautiful, wild little boys around the living room, she can be found staring into space as she plots her next story. Or she might be daydreaming about a raspberry mocha from Starbucks. Or thinking about what kind of chocolate she should have for dinner that night. She could be thinking of any number of things, really. One thing is for certain: she is blessed with a wonderful family and a lovely life.

Let's Learn a Little More about Jessie

Chocolate? Yes! If you were forced to choose which form of chocolate is your absolute favorite, what would you say?

I really love truffles or chocolates that have raspberry filling.

When Jill Kemerer interviewed you last October, you said cooking isn't your forte. I can relate, since I rank preparing meals up there with paying taxes. I love eating out and suspect you might, too. When you head to a restaurant with your kiddos in tow, which place do you go? When it's just you and your hubby, what's your pick?

Mmm, well, there's a Mexican restaurant in my town that we all adore. Don Pepe's! Yum. We'll go to the same restaurants with or without the kiddos.

When I had the privilege of interviewing you at Romance Writers on the Journey (my former blog) back in February 2009, I asked you about the different genres you write. You said, " No more historicals for me. Now I'm writing contemporary inspirational romances. Much easier for my brain."

And yet here you are with a historical romance on the shelves, proving the Lord has a sense of humor and that our paths can go in unexpected directions. What's another time God surprised you by changing your plans and bringing about way cool results?

That's so funny! But you know, Love On The Range is still my only historical. LOL Although I am slogging through a historical WIP.

Great question about God. I don't know if I have an answer because I don't really like to make plans… I know He surprises me all the time with good things though. I'm really thankful for everything He's done and even more, the awesome people he's put in my life. You all are blessings!

In that interview you also talked about your preference for Alpha heroes, so it comes as no surprise that you're married to one. Your adventurous, live-life-with-gusto Extreme Fisherman fellow has taken you on some amazing trips. Which one stands out, and why?

Heehee! Costa Rica!! I love to speak Spanish and the Ticos are so friendly. They help me jabber away and are just cool people in general.

If we were to ride shotgun with you as you drive to the place you go most often, where would that be and what would we learn about you on the way?

Well…lol, I wish I could give you an exciting answer. During school months, you guessed it, we'd be heading to school every morning and afternoon. But in the summer, chances are you'd be riding to the river with me and my brood. On either ride you'd probably learn that I love music, and I love it loud.

• • •

Jessie's Question for You

What kind of music do you like?

And do you blast it, or do you prefer it as background noise?

• • •

To learn even more about Jessie, connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads.

• • •

Love on the Range

Any other socialite would view being packed off to a remote Oregon ranch as a punishment. But Gracelyn Riley knows that this is her opportunity to become a real reporter. If she can make her name through an interview with the elusive hero known as Striker, then she'll never have to depend on anyone ever again.

Rancher Trevor Cruz can't believe his secret identity is being endangered by an overly chatty city girl. But if there's one thing he knows, it's that Gracie's pretty little snooping nose is bound to get her in trouble. So he'll use her determination to find "Striker" to keep an eye on her and stick close by her side.

• • •

Drawing for a Copy of Love on the Range

Jessie has generously offered to give away an autographed copy of Love on the Range.

To enter the drawing, leave a comment by Tuesday, April 10. (Be sure to provide your email address in the appropriate field so I can contact you if you win.)

I'll select the winner on Wednesday, April 11 and post the name here and in a comment.

No purchase necessary.

Offer void where prohibited.

Odds of winning vary due to number of entrants.

Filed under: Guests, Reading Tagged: Jessica Nelson, Keli Gwyn, Love on the Range

Friday Fun Victorian Style

What traditional food did the Victorians eat for breakfast on Good Friday?

Hot cross buns.

Today many bakers make the traditional cross on top using frosting, but Victorian bakers and those before them generally used one of two toppings. Can you guess what they were?

I've provided the number of letters and given the first and last.

l  __  __  __ n   c __  __  d

m  __  __  __  __  __  __  n

Many hot cross buns included one of two dried fruits. Can you guess what they were?

As before, I've given the number of letters, filling in the first and last.

c  __  __  __  __  __  __  s

r  __  __  __  __  __  s

You can leave your guesses in a comment.

I'll update the post over the weekend to include the answer, so you could check back Monday. I'll also provide a link to this post at the end of next Friday's quiz.

• • •

I've updated the Friday Fun post from last week. Click this link to see the answer.

Image from iStockPhoto.

Filed under: Fun & Friends, Research Tagged: hot cross buns, Keli Gwyn, Victorian Guessing Game