Caron Rider's Blog, page 10

Ever been Desperate?

Desperate to make it in the writing industry? I checked out a couple of articles about publishing and agents recently. You should check these out too. Basically, Ann Voss Peterson guest posted on Joe Konrath's blog about not being able to afford to publish with Harlequin anymore because her royalty was just eaten away by various clauses in the publishing contract. Well, this post inspired an agent to blast authors for "complaining" and "whining" when they signed a contract. He felt one should not sign a contract if one had any reservations. This led to quite a backlash due to the fact of an author's agent taking the side of a publisher. Aren't agents supposed to be looking out for the author? He has since deleted his post so I don't have that link for you. However, I do have the original post by Ann Peterson and another post that focused on the agent in question at The Passive Guy (love the blog). Her post really lays it all out and is very interesting for writers and readers alike.  

Joe Konrathhttp://jakonrath.blogspot.co.uk/2012/05/harlequin-fail.html?m=1

 



The Passive Guy
 http://www.thepassivevoice.com/05/2012/many-authors-are-able-to-make-a-living-with-their-writing-with-harlequin/
Unfortunately, many authors rely on the agent to tell them if they are making a good deal or not. And many feel they "have" to sign if they are going to "make" it in the industry at all. Just remember that ultimately:

"Necessity never made a good bargain." --Ben Franklin

From the Mouths of Babes

I have a wonderful guest post by Lauren Grimley today, but I couldn't resist putting her cover up first. I just love it and can't really explain why other than to say it evokes a nostalgic feeling, reminding me of old Hollywood movies. Enjoy her teaser and post!

Unforeseen teaser:

Alex was quite sure giftedwas a term delusional parents applied to their strictly average children, vampires were gorgeous dead guys in her eighth-grade girls' novels, and Seers was a middle schooler's misspelling of a department store famous for power tools. Teachers, however, don't know everything–it’s Alex’s turn to be educated.
Hoping just to clear her mind Alex Crocker leaves work for a late night run across the small city of Bristol, Mass. Instead she is dragged violently into a feud she never would have known existed had she not become the newest quarry. She quickly learns she’s being hunted for possessing a gift she never wanted, one that could kill her or provide her the power she’ll need to protect herself and those she cares for.
Despite her desire to maintain her independence, Alex quickly becomes tied to the Rectinatti vampires through bonds of friendship, loyalty, and most surprisingly, love. These bonds, coupled with the new knowledge that she is in grave danger are enough to make her want to stay. But it’s learning what is really at stake that drives her to fight.

From the Mouths of Babesby Lauren Grimley

            Since Caron's books are geared towards young adults and we're both teachers who enjoy this age group, I thought it appropriate during National Teacher's Week to turn the tables and thank my students.  Because, although Unforeseenand the rest of the series is adult urban fantasy, I never would have written it if it hadn't been for "my kiddos," as I call them. 
            I'm an eighties baby born just three months into the decade, so naturally my first foray into fantasy came from playing Star Wars in the woods with the neighborhood kids.  Being short and chubby back then (not much has changed), I was nearly always assigned the unexciting role of Ewok, while the older girls got to play Princess Leia and the boys Jedi Knights.  It was no wonder I shied away from the genre for years after that. 
            It wasn't until I was studying to be an English teacher at Boston University that I returned.  I grudgingly admitted that if I were going to teach middle school, I'd have to read what the kids were reading.  So I picked up the first of those "boy wizard" books with the enthusiasm usually reserved for touching items infected by contagious diseases.  It certainly was contagious.  Two years later my students lovingly referred to me as the crazy Harry Potter teacher.  My love of fantasy had begun. 
            But vampires?  That seemed to be taking it too far.  It wasn't until the Twilight craze completely consumed my fantasy book club, turning my Friday afternoons into a frenzy of giggling tween girls, that I capitulated.  Once again I headed to the library with dread.  There was no way I was going to like these books or any others with fang-faced protagonists.  Once again I was wrong.  Within the span of one summer my Harry Potter collection was fighting for room on my bookshelves with vampire books ranging from Stoker's classic to the Sookie Stackhouse series.
            It wasn't long before ideas for my own types of vampires began creeping into my imagination.  Two years ago I officially set aside the realistic fiction novel I'd been struggling to finish since college and set out to write my first fantasy.  The rough hand-written draft of Unforeseenwas completed less than three months later.  It just goes to show that teachers have as much to learn from our students, as we have to teach them.  I'm not saying I'll read any book my middle schoolers recommend, but from now on, I'm going to be much less leery to try something new.
About Lauren:
 Lauren Grimley is the author of Unforeseen an urban fantasy just released by Malachite Quills Publishing. To pay the bills and test her sanity she teaches middle school English in Central Massachusetts. Though she writes mostly fantasy, she likes to share her thoughts on writing, teaching, and life through her blog.

Her loves are lounging on a quiet beach, writing on the deck, and reading on rainy day with the cat on her lap.


Links to connect with Lauren and learn more about her and her writing:Available on Barnes & Noble: http://bit.ly/M7v5MK and Amazon: http://amzn.to/Iyas63
Personal website with an excerpt and a trailer for Unforeseen: http://www.laurengrimley.com/
Blog: http://blog.laurengrimley.com/
Shelfari: http://www.shelfari.com/laurengrimley
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5825387.Lauren_Grimley
Twitter @legrimley  http://twitter.com/#!/legrimley
Facebook:  www.facebook.com/AuthorLaurenGrimley

Towards Yesterday by Paul Jones Review

I finally managed to finish Towards Yesterday. Yay! It took me a while because my life is so absolutely crazy right now but it is definitely a book you want on your shelf. :)

Description from Goodreads:
What would you do if you had the chance to undo all your mistakes? For humanity, that chance is here...

When a seemingly simple experiment goes disastrously wrong, James Baston finds himself stranded alongside the rest of mankind, twenty-five years in the past. A past where the old are once more young, the dead live and the world has been thrust into chaos.

Contacted by the scientist responsible for the disaster, James is recruited to help avert an even greater catastrophe. Along with a team of scientists, a reincarnated murder victim and a frustrated genius trapped in her six-year old body, James must stop the certain extinction of humanity. But if the deluded leader of the Church of Second Redemption has his way, humanity will disappear into potentiality, and he is willing to do anything to ensure that happens.

A serial killer, a murder victim, a dead priest, and James' lives are all inextricably bound together as they plummet towards an explosive final confrontation, the winner of which will decide the fate of humanity.

My Thoughts: 5/5 Stars

Towards Yesterday gives an original spin on the old saying “If I only knew then, what I know now.” I genuinely liked the concept of the story, slipping back in time physically but not mentally…people who had died, reappearing, adults becoming children again, etc. Jones gives us some excellent imagery that had this reader cringing a time or two. The science element was VERY intriguing to me and engrossing but not so over the top that lay people can’t easily understand the concepts. And what concepts they are…tying the fabric of the universe to the fabric of our beings. Awesome. It was thought provoking, answered many of the questions it raised, and still leaves a reader with that “what if” feeling that draws one back for more.
Paul Jones Bio from Goodreads:edit dataI’ve been a writer for well over 25 years, now; as a journalist, short-story writer and freelance copywriter. I can now add author to that list.

In May of 2011 I released Towards Yesterday, my first novel. I’ve also released a compilation of short stories (Dangerous Places) and, my most recent project, the first book in a new series, the post-apocalyptic adventure Extinction Point.

I’m currently working on the second novel in the Extinction Point series, continuing the story of Emily Baxter, the last remaining human on the east-coast of the USA.

I live in sunny Nevada with my wife, four dogs and God knows how many eight legged critters that seem to find their way into our house on a daily basis. I make a mean cranberry martini.
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11294761-towards-yesterday
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004Z9A0SE?ie=UTF8&tag=httpwwwgoodco-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B004Z9A0SE&SubscriptionId=1MGPYB6YW3HWK55XCGG2
Blog: http://www.disturbeduniverse.com/

I got the Sunshine Award!

WOW! Good news...I got the Sunshine Award from Michelle at http://indiewritersreview.wordpress.com/! THANKS!

Thanks Michelle! I will display it proudly. :)

Now the award does comes with some rules…

1.Include the award logo in the post.
2.Link back and thank those that nominated me.
3.Answer 10 random questions.
4.Nominate 5 other bloggers and link them to the award in their comments.

My 10 Questions I pulled from various interviews I've given over the past year:


1. Who are your favorite authors and what is it that strikes you about their work?
I really have to recommend Andre Norton. She began publishing back in the 1950s and the genre is sci-fi and fantasy and good for all ages. She makes you feel as if you are a part of the story-it's my hope to emulate that feeling for my readers.

2. If you were stranded on a deserted island, and were allowed to bring 3 items with you, what would they be?
Let's see, you can't do without the 3 C's: a lifetime supply of Coke, Chocolate, and Charmin.

3. Where do you see yourself in five (5) years? The most successful writer on the planet! You can never dream too big, right?


4. If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be? Right here in America! We have so many freedoms and have so much that it is a blessing.
 


5. Do you prefer ebooks, paperbacks or hardcover? I like ‘em all.
 

6. If you could be any character (male or female) from your book who would you pick? And why? I would be Bathsheba. In Silver Knight, she already has a connection to several of the characters (and if you’ve read it and were paying particular attention, then you may have found all the connections), but readers will learn a lot more about her in book two. She’s an exciting character.
 

7. Where and/or how did you get your inspiration to write "Silver Knight?" I was used to being very busy and moved to help take care of my dad, which left me with some time on my hands. As a teacher, I was also used to a lot of interaction with my students, so after my move, I missed them. I felt like this book was a way for me to re-connect with them in a new and exciting way. And I always loved the movies Dead Again and On a Clear Day You Can See Forever, which both deal with reincarnation in a fun way and I recommend everyone watch them.
 

8. What were the best parts about writing this book? The best part for me was getting to spend more time with my kids and my dad.
 

9. Do you manage to write every day? Do you ever suffer from writer’s block? Yes, in some form or fashion, I write every day and occasionally have a block. I just call my brother and bounce some ideas around and that usually clears it all up. Then I'm off and running again.
 

10. What do you do when you’re not writing? Any hobbies or party tricks? :) Well, of course, I love to read! But I also cook, crochet, and garden. Sorry, no party tricks (other than chasing the chickens). L

And my nominations for the Sunshine Award are:

1. Kittie @ http://kittiehoward.blogspot.com/ as she seems to have a blog that promotes kindness, helping others (especially fellow bloggers), and personal inspiration and growth.

2. Tobi @ http://forgetthehouseworkimreading.blogspot.com/ who should be commended for beginning a new blog reviewing books. Way to go!

3. Emma @ http://www.witchbloodthenovel.com/ who just has really cool book covers (love the new one Emma!) and a fun blog.

4. Colette the Buckeye girl @ http://lovesromances.blogspot.com/ for giving us such great reviews and loving the History Channel H2!

5. Masquerade Crew @ http://masqueradecrew.blogspot.com/ for always promoting writing in all its forms! Awesome!

Reading is My Escape

I wrote this piece for Jamie B Musings' blog http://jbcultureshock.wordpress.com some time ago and thought it appropriate today since my daughter's reading has really kicked into high gear.

Excerpt from Silver Knight:
“The legion was marching past on their way to besiege Lilybaeum on the coast. I gasped at the sight of one particular soldier—it was Alexander! Near the roadway, a large crowd had gathered to cheer them, throwing flower petals for them to tread on as they went by. He was near the front edge of the men, and though he was some distance away, he seemed to sense my presence. In a flash his black eyes met my startled gaze. For one, single, second, I thought he was not going to come for me. Then hope fled as he leaped into the crowd. Turning, I ran madly, pushing people out of the way in my desperation.”

Escape is a recurring theme throughout Silver Knight. It’s made me realize that throughout my life I have often wanted to escape. I think that’s why I love to read. I didn’t necessarily like where I was or how I had to live. So reading was a release and a joy. Which leads me to the reason for writing. It is really to encourage teenagers to read.
I have worked for many years with what are considered “at-risk” teenagers. They are drug users, drug dealers, and often parents of more than one child. Children having children. Their world is not necessarily so hot. If anyone needs an escape, they do. Unfortunately, they don’t realize that reading can lead them out of their current lives in more than just imagination. They see it as a waste of time, boring, not relevant.
The truth is that the more you read, the better you get at it, and the more it opens up the possibilities for a future. We are judged every day on how we use language. It can mean the difference between getting a job and not getting a job. If you are hiring, more than gender, race, or age, you unconsciously want to hire someone who speaks similarly to you. Language makes you sound educated, whether you went to college or not. Interviews are talking and many of my students would talk themselves right out of a job opportunity simply because they didn’t have the language skills to compete effectively.
Reading. Any kind of reading. They just have to read. So my first book I have written with teenagers in mind. Of course, anyone can read it and quite a few adults have liked it. But I wanted something fun and entertaining to encourage teens to read. To escape.

Silver Demon Sneak Peek

Yesterday I gave you the Preface of Silver Demon, the sequel to Silver Knight, which will be released on the Summer Solstice. Now if you go to www.caronrider.com, you can get more of a sneak peek with a glimpse of Chapter 1.

Silver Demon by Caron Rider Preview

I thought I'd give you a little taste of the next installment in The Silver Series. Enjoy!


Silver DemonPREFACE       Sometimes our fears are without visible cause, sometimes not. But everyone, everyone I tell you, is afraid of the dark. You leave a person long enough without any source of light, in complete and utter darkness, and you leave a person who will slowly lose his sanity. The person might know intellectually that he’s in a room by himself with only one door and no windows. He knows, he knows that nothing could have gotten into the room with him without his knowledge, but eventually, he will begin to hear a scrabbling, a light scratching, maybe the softest cough of sound. His heart rate will increase and then it’s impossible to hear anything over the thud, which only increases his fear.
       Scientists feel that our fear of the dark is genetically hardwired—evolution at work. In the dark, there were and still are predators. Our fear gave us the edge to survive they think. No disagreement here, the dark is real and we should fear it. But most disagree and term it ‘imagination.’ Little do they know.
       The very Dark itself is our enemy. It tries to crush the pinpricks of light spread throughout its area but nothing seems to eradicate it! Where one is snuffed out, another begins. The battle lines were drawn eons ago as creatures of the Dark defend themselves against those of the Light.

Meet Solitaire Parke

Rather than just one book, for this post I want you to meet Solitaire Parke. The cover and description for the novel Vengeance of the Wolf really drew me in. I haven't had a chance to read it yet, but can't wait! Then I discover that he's posting one chapter at a time of another book (see the cover below). If you want to know if you're going to like someone's writing, this should give you ample opportunity! Am I using too many exclamations? I can't help it! I'm excited about this one. See for yourself:


Vengeance of the Wolf Description –
“Vengeance of the Wolf” is a harrowing story of a man exacting revenge on those he has deemed responsible for the loss of his beloved wolf puppy, killed many years before at a Presidential parade. A fragile young boy was at that moment forever changed, and the maniacal vendetta of a psychotic killer was created. What follows is a killing spree so brilliantly carried out, that it seems nearly unstoppable. Detective, John Yardley, and FBI Agent, Frank Williams, are on a quest to stop this manipulative, unknown mass murderer, whose targets seem to be specific politicians, in a bizarre and insane killing spree…one that draws them into a world of dreams and nightmares beyond their wildest imaginations. Awaiting them are unbelievable terrors, chilling twists and turns and a scope of destruction that they would never have believed possible!
The Emerald Dragon Description –
“The Emerald Dragon” is the story of Tanis, an ancient warrior called by an emerald dragon; the first to be born in over a thousand years. What follows is the day to day struggle Tanis faces while learning to be a dragon rider and live among the people of Mount Drago. It soon becomes evident that there’s more to his calling than just becoming a part of the Dragomeir legend. A war is brewing and only the dragon riders stand in the way of total annihilation.
Bum, bum, bum! JI am featuring this one for free on my blog, one chapter at a time (as I’m writing it), every Friday. J  (I love this idea! I wish my writing style would let me post one chapter at at time! Way to go Solitare!)
Solitaire Parke bio –
I have been avidly reading books of all kinds, but especially Science Fiction books since I was twelve years old. It was the author, Edgar Rice Burroughs, that really inspired me to become a writer. His style of writing spoke to me and evoked a passion for the written word. Throughout my life I have acquired a degree in Music Theory, a Masters in Photography and spent a decade and a half in Graphic and Web Design, but my love of writing never let up. I am currently pursuing my dream of becoming a full-time Author. I have written books ranging from Horror/Thriller to Science Fiction as well as Metaphysical and Poetry. I am also the proud owner of Tairobi…my Manx cat. He’s been a huge help in the writing process!


These are the links for Solitaire's website, blog and other social media – Website: http://www.solitaireparke.com
Blog: http://solitaireparke.wordpress.com
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/solitaireparke
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/solitaireparke
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/solitaireparke

Vengeance of the Wolf is available for purchase at (although we just lowered the price, and I don’t think B&N’s website is showing the new price yet): Lulu (ebook, paperback, hardback): http://www.lulu.com/shop/solitaire-parke/vengeance-of-the-wolf/ebook/product-18915748.html
Smashwords (ebook): http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/154646
Barnes & Noble (ebook): http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/vengeance-of-the-wolf-solitaire-parke/1006193575?ean=9781105463600&itm=1&usri=solitaire+parke

I'm a writer, right?

I never really started out to become a writer. My goal in high school was actually to be a secretary. I could type. I could type really well. Fast. I topped out at 100 words per minute. So I paid my dues, if you can say starting out as a receptionist, leading up to a secretary was paying dues. Perhaps because I liked to type, to make documents look decent, and wanted to use the fewest possible key strokes to make the documents look good, I learned word processing software better than most. This led me to teaching software to adults (the most fun ever), which led me to teaching computer hardware and networking as well. Then it morphed into teaching high school dropouts when a position opened up in that department (the most rewarding job ever). But that led to a desire to help high school students before they actually dropped out and I began teaching history at a local high school. I had a lovely time there and loved my students. Yes, even the really difficult, obnoxious ones, even the one I thought would probably shoot me in a drive by. Obviously I won him over, because I'm still here. But then my dad got sick. He lived almost 800 miles away from me and while I didn't (and don't) think that he needs to live in a nursing home, I felt that he shouldn't live alone. So this past year I haven't been with my students and I really missed them. I was used to being really busy, working multiple jobs, but suddenly I didn't have much to do. I was bored. And I wondered how I could still connect with my students or any students, so I wrote Silver Knight. I hope it is enjoyable to people and inspires curiosity. And now I consider myself a writer.

Silver Knight is Free on April 28!

What would you do if you discovered you were a reincarnated, demon-fighting warrior? Then what if you met the demon that through the centuries you have loved, betrayed and been killed by?

Let the fun begin!  Get a free download of Silver Knight from Amazon today!


http://www.amazon.com/Silver-Knight-The-Series-ebook/dp/B006PI0Q9Q/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1335614683&sr=8-3