Christene Houston's Blog: Christenehouston.com, page 4
March 28, 2014
Author/Editor Interview {Lisa Mangum}
In keeping with my new year resolutions, this week I’ve been studying agents. I’m asking lots of questions. Researching profiles. Following Tweets. And writing queries, all in preparation for finding the PERFECT agent for my books. I’ll keep you all posted. So far Querytracker.net has been an awesome resource. You can search for agents according to genre and make a list. There are links right there to research about specific agents too. It’s kind of fun to get to know these professionals in the industry and what they’re looking for.
With this in mind, I wanted to post today’s interview with Author and Editor Lisa Mangum. This lady has so many talents. She is a great teacher, a wonderful writer, a Disney addict, and has helped to perfect some of the books you love to read. Let’s get to know her better:
One of my faves!
CH: As a writer/editor, is it difficult to turn off your critical brain in order to be creative in your writing?
LM: Yes. At least it was in the beginning. I had been editing for so long that when I added writing to my list of things-to-do it took some time for me to learn how to switch between the two skill sets. A couple of things helped me make the transition:
(1) I don’t write at work, and I don’t work at home. I am very careful to make sure that my work stays in my office. That way, when I get home, my physical surroundings help remind me that I am in a safe place to be creative and that I don’t have to listen to my “editor brain” until later.
(2) I write in Times New Roman, but I edit in Verdana. I was surprised at how much of an effect switching the font on my computer had on both my editing and my writing. I waited until I had finished my first draft of The Hourglass Door and then asked myself, “What would I think about this manuscript if it wasn’t mine?” And so I did what I always do when I’m preparing to edit: I switched the font. And suddenly it was like my editor brain woke up and said, “Oh, well, then I’d change this and this and move that there.” It was amazing and helpful and has become my standard practice.
CH: What are your favorite parts of being an editor?
LM: I love the developmental editing part of the process. I love working with an author and talking about the big picture stuff in the book. Seeing a manuscript transform into something more polished and shiny never gets old.
CH: You were just at the Superstars Conference. Can you share the top 3 things you learned there?
LM: Can I just say how much I adored the Superstars Writing Seminar? It was my first time attending, and I was completely blown away by the caliber of writers and instructors there. I learned so much, and I can’t wait to go back next year.
(1) “Your manuscript doesn’t have to be perfect, but it does have to be finished.”—Kevin J. Anderson
I love this because it reminds me that my first draft can be ragged around the edges. I just need to finish it and then I can perfect it. For someone who is often paralyzed by the burden of feeling like my writing needs to be perfect the first time around, this is a good reminder.
(2) “You don’t have to be fast, you have to be focused.”—Peter Wacks
A great quote that reminds me that—for me—it’s better to be focused than just throwing words down on paper. Granted sometimes I do that, but I make better use of my time when I’m focused on knowing what happens next.
(3) “If you don’t believe in writer’s block, it won’t believe in you.”—Mark Leslie Lefebvre
Ah, writer’s block, my old nemesis. This was a great quote for me to remember because I, like most writers, I think, often hit up against that wall of writer’s block. But if I can remember that it’s more of an illusion than a barrier, I’m more likely to push past it (and faster) and continue writing—which is the most important part of being a writer.
CH: You teach a killer pitch class. Where do we go wrong the most and what should we do about it?
LM: Most people don’t focus on the core problem of the story with their pitch. They dance around the heart of the story, or they clutter it up with unnecessary (but often cool) details. When you are crafting your pitch, think about four things: tell me who your hero is, tell me what his goal is, tell me at least one obstacle he will face, and tell me what the consequence of failure is. If I can walk away from your pitch knowing those four things, you’ve done a good job.
CH: You work for Deseret Book. Can you tell us what you’re looking for from writers in the upcoming year? At times there are open calls for certain types of books. Are there any coming up that we should get writing for?
LM: I like to say that the submission door is always open at Deseret Book and Shadow Mountain. We’re always looking for the “next big thing” but that could be any book in almost any genre. I will say that we have some strong middle grade and YA titles on the schedule right now, so if you are working on something in those genres, it’ll have to be spectacular to catch our attention.
Also, there’s no one best time to submit your work. Finish it, polish it, and then send it in.
CH: What are you writing now, and what is your process for writing?
LM: I’m working on a romance novella for an anthology as well as a full-length romance novel. I have a fairy tale story in the back of my head, a contemporary YA novel about sisters, and an urban fantasy. (Decisions, decisions!)
As far as my process goes: I outline obsessively and draft once. I like to know the scope of the story from the beginning and now how I’m going to get from start to finish. I like to leave room to play if the story takes me in an unexpected direction, but I like structure more. I write a little every day and then lots at night and on the weekends.
CH: Give us your top three tips for aspiring writers.
LM:
(1) Give yourself permission to write something stupid. Sometimes the best way through writer’s block is to just not stop writing, and that may yield some less-than-perfect prose. That’s okay. Keep going. You’ll find your groove again. And then you can throw out the stupid bits tomorrow. No one will ever know.
(2) Do the work. Writing is hard. It is time-consuming and aggravating and glorious and fulfilling. But you can’t get there unless you actually write something down. Don’t just think about it all the time. Get the words out of your head and onto the paper.
(3) Remember to keep your balance. It’s important to know when to say yes to something, and when to say no. We all only have some much time in a day. Use your time wisely and well, and chances are you’ll feel the benefits in your writing.
CH: We’ve seen a trend of vampires, then angels, followed by trolls and zombies. What do you think is next on the horizon for YA or other books?
LM: I think contemporary YA is on the rise. Stand-alone, character-driven stories feel like they are gaining popularity. Of course, a well-written, compelling story will never go out of style.
CH: We know you love Disneyland – can you share a little known Disney secret, or a great place to visit in the park that is often overlooked, or a great place to get deals on their tickets? (We’re trying to take our family this year for the first time!)
LM: I do love Disneyland! One Disney secret that I learned is about the Disneyland Railroad train ride. When you are going past the Grand Canyon section, the backdrop is a mural painted on a single canvas, and when it was done, it was blessed by a Hopi priest.
One Disney tradition that my husband and I do on every visit is to leave a compliment card at City Hall about a cast member who did a great job that day. We feel that it’s one way to give a little magic back to a place that is already so magical.
CH: Here at ADDICTED we like to know your addictions. Tell us what you can’t live without.
LM: Books and chocolate are probably givens, right? I will admit that lately I’ve become addicted to Dr. Who. (That David Tennatt . . . my, oh, my!)
March 26, 2014
My Weekend
This is how I spent my weekend:
Oldest with Brandon Mull – who happens to be super cool!
Oldest with the awesome Chad Morris!
Okay, that was how I spent my Friday night. Saturday consisted of a mountain of laundry piles and therapeutic vacuuming.
Sunday night I geeked out Austen style with this little show/documentary.
Pride and Prejudice: Having a Ball (PBS)
I’m not sure what to call it, but I can only say I was riveted on every single word! I loved learning the practical behind-the-scenes facts of Regency life. And honestly, I wanted to be fitted for one of those adorable muslin dresses. Because I love you I’ve included the Youtube link to the whole darn episode. Enjoy!
March 24, 2014
My Kind of Monday
Breathtaking: Seven Bestselling Novels of Love and Suspense
Boxed set is only $.99 March 24th through March 29th.
Amazon * Barnes & Noble * iTunes * Kobo * Smashwords
Unbelievable by Sherry Gammon
Deliah Dreser’s in town to take care of family business. They say the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, but there’s more to Lilah than meets the eye. Cole’s in danger of losing his heart when this firestorm throws sparks his way. Is she simply playing him for the fool in order to exact revenge for her brother’s murders?
Bestselling author Sherry Gammon’s reviewers exclaim; “She has a gift for touching her readers with beautiful, gripping stories that you can’t put down.”
Home Before Dark by Christy Barritt
Nothing good ever happens after dark. Those were the words country singer Daleigh McDermott’s father always repeated.
Now her father is dead, and Daleigh finds a hidden journal hinting that his death was no accident. Small town mechanic Ryan Shields is the only one who seems to believe Daleigh. As the two work to unravel the mystery, it becomes obvious that someone wants them dead. They must rely on each other—and on God—if they hope to make it home before the darkness swallows them whole.
Award-Winning Suspense Novelist and Bestselling Amazon Author, touted as “scary, funny, passionate, and quirky” by USA Today.
Baggage Claim by Amanda Tru
Rachel Saunders is looking forward to her all-expense paid weekend trip to New York. But, when her luggage is lost and she is accosted by an infuriating Homeland Security agent, events take a dangerous turn.
Amanda Tru, Bestselling Amazon Author of Romance and Suspense. Discover the author who, as an Amazon reviewer raves, “continues to impress me and dominate my time with a book I can’t put down even after it’s ended.”
Cassie’s Cowboy Crave by Kimberly Krey
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In a moment of weakness, Shane steals a kiss.
In return, Cassie steals his heart…
When Cassie is forced to join the witness protection program, she fears her life is over… but then she meets Shane Emerson — the hunky cowboy posing as her husband. Will this sham marriage turn into the real thing, or will a hidden danger put it all at risk?
Kimberly Krey writes romance that’s clean without losing the steam. What’s Beyond Forks calls this Best-selling Western Romance author “the master of romantic tension.”
A Perfect Fit by Heather Tullis
Cami DiCarlo is not happy when her father forces her into heading up guest services at his newest five-star hotel and unveils the existence of four half-sisters at the same time, insisting they live together while they launch the new resort.
When she meets Vince, the sweet, sexy landscaper her father would never have approved of, Cami can’t say no. If only she could be sure she is on the right track—and that they will be able to stop the person who is trying to destroy everything.
You Belong with Me by Shannon Guymon
Layla Kendall is a burned out social worker one step away from a major depression. When she and her sisters inherit their grandmother’s bakery, she doesn’t know if she can trust her good fortune or not. But the chance to be with her sisters and get away from the heartache and pain she’s faced day in and day out is a chance she’s going to take. With Layla’s new life, come new friendships, including Michael Bender, a single dad. She doesn’t trust men but Michael’s little girl grabs her by the heart and won’t let go.
Shannon Guymon is an Amazon Bestselling Author of lighthearted and clean romance who according to her many fans, has the ability to paint pictures of her characters so real that readers would know them if they saw them walking down the street.
Blog This by Cami Checketts
Devastated by the loss of her brother, Natasha Senecot exposes the dangers of Matthew Chrysler’s violent video games, bankrupting and humiliating him. Chrysler sends a hit man after her. In a race against time, can Natasha expose Chrysler before his assassin murders her family and shatters her world?
Bestselling author Cami Checketts has been touted as, “A genius! She writes about topics that aren’t widely discussed, and she does such a brilliant job of crafting these things into wonderful stories that touch your heart and remain with you for days afterwards.”
March 17, 2014
Author Interview {Chad Morris}
So last week – should we talk about it or just let it slide? I was…shall we say – busy. But not in the fun writer dashing out thousands of words way. More like girl with five babies trying to get on the right track busy. Starting a new eating plan busy. Cutting out sugar and carbs busy. Whole30 busy.
I know you understand this.
Never fear! I’m back and feeling pretty good actually. This week in Vegas, we have the thrill of two MG authors swooping in for a fun book tour. NY Times Bestselling Author Brandon Mull and Chad Morris are going to be here signing and selling and generally entertaining the masses. I thought I would prep you for their arrival with a little interview with Chad. He is seriously a lot of fun and I really enjoyed his book The Inventor’s Secret.
My 11 year old son gave it a thumbs up as well.
Believe me, you want to know more about this fun author and his works. Let’s get to know Chad a little better, shall we?
CH: Where did the idea for Cragbridge Hall originate?
CM: Great question. Here’s the answer:
CH: I read you did stand up comedy for a time. What made you start writing, or was it something you’ve always done?
CM: I started writing and performing sketch comedy in college with a group called Divine Comedy. Brandon Mull, the New York Times Best-Selling Author, was in the group and the college group still gets together to do some of his launch parties.
Comedy was a fantastic writing school. I got to practice pitching my ideas, pounding out drafts, getting feedback, and then seeing how it went over with an audience. I think it helped my writing a lot.
CH: How did you sell your book to an agent…what was the process and time frame for you?
CM: I actually went the other way. I sent the manuscript for Cragbridge Hall, the Inventor’s Secret straight to Shadow Mountain Publishing. And thankfully, they made me an offer. Then I found an agent. I had sent Shadow Mountain a manuscript previous to this one that got some good attention, so thankfully they were already a bit interested in me.
CH: What do you love most about writing?
CM: I love the no-limits creativity.
CH: What secrets can you tell us about The Inventor’s Secret?
CM: Um . . . let’s see. One of the codes for the Bridge is the home phone number I memorized in elementary school. I made Grandpa Cragbridge the age my oldest son will be in 2074.
If you want an insider secret, I’ll just say that Grandpa Cragbridge isn’t the only one who has a huge secret. You find out about another in book 2.
CH: Is another book coming? When will it come out? Is Vegas on your list of stops for signing and promotion, hint, hint?
CM: Book 2, The Avatar Battle came out March 4, 2014! I’m pretty thrilled!
I’m a lucky brat and will be doing a lot of touring with Brandon Mull this spring. Vegas is on the docket! It looks like we should be there around March 20-21. Check www.cragbridgehall.com for the official list of stops in the near future.
{Chad will indeed be here: March 20th at Deseret Book 7650 W. Sahara Ave at 6:30pm – March 21st at Barnes and Noble 567 N. Stephanie, Henderson 6pm}
CH: What about your family – tell us about how they inspire and challenge you.
CM: I love this question. My wife is my sounding board, my first reader, and quite possibly the best and hottest woman in the world. She gives great feedback and reassures me when I’m pretty convinced everything I write is boring slop. Plus, she runs our crazy household and finds ways of letting me write.
And my kids are my main motivation for writing. The thought of making them laugh, gasp, or call out a “that’s awesome!” or “no way!” brings a whole new level to my story. And when I read to them at night, and the story works, it’s a total thrill.
CH: Top 3 things you want every young reader to know.
CM:
1. You’re awesome. Seriously, you are. Don’t argue with me. Just admit it. And keep reading.
2. Read what you love, and occasionally read something different just to try it out.
3. You can do something amazing! Yep. Just try. And then keep trying. You just might surprise me and yourself.
CH: Top 4 things you want every writer to know
CM:
1. You’re probably better than you think.
2. Keep trying.
3. Read with a writing eye. (But also read for just plain fun too.)
4. Take a break and do something else every now and then. Writing is awesome, but it may just drive us crazy if we get too obsessed with it.
CH: Share your favorite scene from book one or two – fave or most pivotal?
CM: That would be a tough call. I have a lot of favorites for different reasons. For example, I love the avatar relay race in book 2 because I think it’s creative and crazy fun to imagine. For the same reason, I get caught up in the virtual world in book 2.
I love the way book 1 wrapped up with Abby saving the day in the basement. While I was writing the story, and approaching the end, I had no idea how I was going to get her out of the trouble I had gotten her into. I’m pretty thrilled with the way it turned out.
And I love when I write something that may hit a deeper emotional level, like Abby’s confession of how she’s felt inferior for years to Derick in book 1 or there is an emotionally intense scene with Derick in book 2.
CH: What inspires you or gets your juices flowing: quotes, music, pictures, movies?
CM: I love books, movies, comedy, just talking with great friends . . . etc. But when it comes to actually writing, nothing gets the juices flowing like … well … writing. I sit, and I type and hopefully after a while something great happens.
CH: When you visit a school, what is your goal?
CM: I want to convince them that their brain is the best invention in the universe (My current presentation has a bit of an invention theme). I want to excite and inspire them to read and make dreams come true. I also want the teachers to be able to get behind what I say. You can please the kids without pleasing the adults, but I want to do both. I introduce them to my book and if it looks fun to them I hope they look into it.
CH: Tell us what you do when you’re not writing.
CM: I still pound away at my full-time job. I love to hang out with my five kids and date my wife. I’m very active in my church. I like to play some basketball, watch comedy, read, watch Sherlock, throw my children on bean bags . . . etc.
CH: 3 things on your bucket list
CM: To be interviewed by Christene. Check.
I’d like to take my son to China (He’s pretty fascinated by it.), make a career out of writing, keep my wife in love with me until we’re awesome old people who smell like vitamins and wear clothes that don’t match, and help my kids become as amazing as possible.
CH: What book impressed you as a young reader? Did it prove inspiration during your writing?
CM: When I was in elementary school, I didn’t like to read. I thought it was boring. I’d rather play ball with my friends, or practice drums, or . . . whatever. But The Book of Three by Lloyd Alexander won me over. I went through the whole series. After that, I can’t say I read a ton, but I did enjoy it. Alexander converted me. I wrote to him and he wrote me this short note on a pamphlet. I’ve kept it all these years. I think that was the first moment I realized that authors were just people and maybe I could become one.
And I would love to win over a reluctant reader like Alexander won me over.
CH: Here at ADDICTED we love to hear what you can’t live without. What are you addicted to?
CM: I love cookie dough ice cream and cereal, but not together. I eat a bowl of cereal almost every night while I’m writing. Definitely addicted.
Chad, thanks so much for sharing your time with us!
I loved learning more about Chad and his books. This guy has a great sense of humor and talent for telling stories. You should definitely check out his website, and follow him on Facebook. If you’re in Vegas, come on out this week and pick up a copy of his newest release: The Avatar Battle!
March 7, 2014
Author Interview {Marissa Meyer}
So last night I was feeding my ADDICTION to baby snuggling. Holding my infant son while he slept and binge reading my second book of the day. My perspective alternated between pages and words and the blissful little man in my arms with eyelashes that seemed to be growing by the minute and a pair of the most kissable cheeks ever dispensed to a baby. His weight in the crook of my arm felt fantastic, a perfect bundle of squishy warmth and wiggles. I should have been contemplating my post for today or writing up a query and some first pages for the contests I’m entering. But that’s what today is for. Last night was for reading and snuggling, and honestly, I can quit whenever I want.
Today I am thrilled to share my interview with the fabulous Marissa Meyer with you. I seriously heart her twisted fairytale seriesThe Lunar Chronicles which includes Cinder – a retelling of Cinderella,
Scarlet that follows Little Red Riding Hood on some new adventures,
and her latest release of Cress – all about Rapunzel. I. cannot. wait. to read it!
With her launch of Cress in full swing, you can imagine Ms. Meyer is pretty darn busy. I’ve seen her all over the United States sharing, celebrating and enjoying some pretty awesome fans. I am thrilled she took the time to answer a few questions for us. You can learn so much more about Ms. Meyer on her website and find out how to JOIN THE RESISTANCE.
CH: We have a pretty open book club, but whenever I bring up cyborgs and fairytales they balk! How would you sell your books to a more conservative crowd or even reluctant readers?
MM: I know, it can be a hard sell with all of the genre jargon sometimes! But I hope that at the heart of the books is a great story, with action, romance, friendships, humor, and four girls trying to find their happily ever afters (and, you know, save the world). I recognize that my books won’t be for every reader, but I always hope that people will give them a shot before making that decision!
CH: Your query/agent hunt was remarkably smooth! Any tips for those still working on finding an agent?
MM: It’s certainly not any new advice, but it is really so important to make sure that you are sending out your best work before you jump into the query pool. Use critique partners, revise and edit and polish to within an inch of your life, read craft guides, hone that query letter until it sparkles. I so often see aspiring writers jump in before their work is really reader, but you only get that one chance to make a first impression – don’t waste it!
CH: I adore fan art and pinboards for helping us see your vision more accurately. Can you share some of your favorite Lunar fan art with us?
MM: Me too! Fanart is one of my favorite things about being a writer right now. Some of the artists capture it so well! Right now, everyone is pretty smitten with the pieces from Laura Hollingsworth, and with good reason – they’re gorgeous! I also really love how some fanartists have crafted sections of the books into graphic novel pages, like Abbida Squirrel on DA. I think it’s really cool to see the story come to life in a different format.
Cinder, Kai, Scarlet, Wolf, Cress, Thorne and Queen Levana by lostie815
By Abbida Squirrel on DA
Click on the images above to find out more about these artists and their work.
CH: I’m thrilled with the arc of your series – something every writer struggles to keep fresh. I think part of your success is in your ability to weave new characters into the storyline with each new book, while adding to the original tale. How did you decide which characters or fairytales you would focus on in this series?
MM: Thank you! I gave a lot of thought to how the stories would intertwine very early on in the process, and even outlined all four books before I started writing them. In the beginning, I was just brainstorming different sci-fi twists that I could give on some of my favorite fairy tales, and I felt like the four stories that I ended up choosing were the four that I had the best ideas for, and could most easily envision how they would all tie together to become one continuous story. So I went with it!
CH: Here at ADDICTED, we need to know: What are you addicted do? What are the things you can’t live without?
MM: Chocolate – the darker the better! And, naturally, books. I start to get cranky when I don’t have regular reading time – and there is never enough time to get caught up on the TBR list! I have many fantasies about locking myself up in a tower with endless shelves of books and just hibernating for a year or two. Maybe someday…
Locked in a tower with books…mmm sounds heavenly Marissa! Thank you again for stopping by ADDICTED today!
Don’t know what you’re going to read this weekend? Then it’s the perfect day to JOIN THE RESISTANCE and dive into The Lunar Chronicles. Let me know what you think!
AND DON’T FORGET!! A HEART SO BROKEN is on sale today and tomorrow for $4.99 on Amazon! And I’ll be signing books with some great Vegas and Henderson Authors at the Local Authors Collection Launch tomorrow from 12-2pm at the Paseo Verde Library at 280 S. Green Valley Parkway, Henderson, NV. Come on out and see me!
March 4, 2014
Local Authors Launch
This week I get to be a part of an amazing event for authors here in Las Vegas and Henderson. I was invited to participate in a Local Authors Collection for the Henderson Libraries. Saturday, March 8, 2014, from 12-2pm I will join other great Vegas writers at the Paseo Verde Library at 280 S. Green Valley Parkway, Henderson, NV 89012 where I will be selling and signing and talking to the intelligent and beautiful people who frequent such places of mental stimulation. (You know you want to be there!)
We’re also kicking off Nevada Reading Week where I will:
Pledge my support to the event and it’s cause by letting the dishes stack as I dive into my TBR list.
Visit a few schools to participate in all the reading fun!
Launch a sale on the Kindle version of my book A HEART SO BROKEN - Wednesday through Saturday!!
Share a killer interview with the AMAZING Marissa Meyer this Friday talking about her LUNAR CHRONICLES series.
Finish it all off with a huge framed poster of A HEART SO BROKEN at my signing this Saturday.
Collect all the addictions of my fellow writers at Saturday’s event to share with you!
Alrighty then- let’s get this party started! First on my list – FINALLY – is Pivot Point. What will you read this week?
February 28, 2014
Author Interview {Elana Johnson}
I just finished Elana Johnson’s latest release ELEVATED after an obsessive reading session yesterday. Beginning to end, I was surprised and delighted by how much I enjoyed this book entirely in prose. To be honest, when the format was first announced, I didn’t quite know how to wrap my head around it. A book written in poetry? Like Roses are Red, all rhyming and Dr. Seuss-y? Don’t get me wrong, I love the Seuss, but this was a YA novel with tension and … Horton doesn’t bring it!
Nevertheless, when I started reading, I was instantly hooked. The poetry of the words – not rhyming, but lyrical, rolling out wave after wave of this story that you just have to know more about. I adored the way the words were placed, the visual poetry of it. I loved Elly’s quirks, her unique personality that is unveiled throughout the story and her triumph in the end. I just enjoyed it so much!
And after starting and stopping several books of late that just…didn’t get me…do you know the feeling? That feeling like you’re only reading to be nice, to not hurt the book’s feelings (don’t laugh), hoping that it will get better, that it will grab you by the neck and yank you in…eventually? Well, this one did and I was so thrilled to be taken for the ride. Elana did a terrific job!
In light of her fabulousness, I had to see if we could learn just a little bit more, and Elana was more than happy to answer a few questions for ADDICTED:
CH: Your current cover for ELEVATED is gorgeous. Tell us how you brought it together, from an idea, to finding the perfect models, to the picture and then a cover that jumps out at you.
EJ: Well, when you’re in charge of your own cover, and you’re so close to the book you’ve written, getting a cover you like can be hard! For me, I decided that the cover didn’t need to portray the words inside the book. I have learned something from my covers in the Possession series!
The only thing I needed my cover to say was “YA contemporary.” So that was my focus. I researched other YA contemporary novels. My photographer and cover designer, Erin Summerill, and I sat together, looking at soon-to-be-released YA contemporary novels to get a feel for what they were doing.
Then we tried to do that!
Our models kept bailing on us, so we finally just grabbed a couple of kids from our neighborhood. They did such a fantastic job – because they’re a little awkward, and it’s perfect for ELEVATED.
CH: You have Indie and conventionally published books. How did you get your current agent and will you continue to use the hybrid method of publishing?
EJ: I am embracing the hybrid model, and thankfully, my new agent is on-board with such an idea. I parted ways with my first agent in September, and immediately began submitting two of my finished novels to other agents. At the same time, I started planning the publication and release of ELEVATED, and submitted a fourth novel to small presses.
It took about 6 weeks of hard querying before I got another offer of representation from my current agent. By then, ELEVATED was well into production, and we talked about me doing the self-publishing thing while she submits my other, well-suited-for-traditional-publishing novels to traditional publishers.
This year, I will be published two YA contemporary novels in verse. ELEVATED is the first of those, and I’m aiming to follow it with another title in September. I also hope to have a traditional book deal by then!
CH: How do you balance your many skills: teaching, marketing, family, writing? How do you make time for writing? Is it an everyday habit?
EJ: Well, family and work come first. I’m a part-time teacher, so that leaves me a few hours to get some things done before the family descends again.
I write whenever I have a spare minute, usually during my 40-minute lunch at school, or while my kids are anxiously engaged in their activities. And then there’s always those hours when everyone else is asleep…
I don’t worry about writing every day anymore. It’s too stressful if I have to do that. If I have the energy and the inclination, I write. Same goes for marketing and social media.
CH: You have a brand new book out with ELEVATED. What are you working on now?
EJ: I just finished my second novel-in-verse, and I just hired an editor for a third self-published title I want to put out in February 2015. So I opened a book I’d written last year, and started revising it. I got some good feedback from two editors last year, and I’m looking to make this book into something awesome for my agent (who’s already said she’d like to read it when I get the revisions done)!
CH: What are your favorite places to write?
I like to write on my couch, or in bed, or at the library, or during write night at a friend’s house. I’ve been known to write in the car, or on my phone, or sitting at the kitchen counter. I don’t have a physical office, so my mantra is “Have laptop, will travel to write.”
CH: What is Wattpad and how can it help an author? Why should they use it?
EJ: Wattpad is a site where readers can discover new authors. Anyone can put their writing up on Wattpad, and I think it helps authors by bringing new readership to their work. I think an author should only use Wattpad if they want to and they see value in it, just like any other marketing or social media tool.
CH: With your experience in marketing for yourself and others, what are the top three methods that are MOST effective?
EJ: This is a hard one! I think the biggest thing that is the most effective is a direct email to someone you’ve gotten to know, or helped in some way, or that you’ve connected with beyond just writing.
I think blog tours can be very effective in reaching beyond the pool mentioned above, to reach potential readers that are already loyal to bloggers or other authors.
And the last one is to keep writing!
CH: You taught an amazing class on queries last year at LDStorymakers that I still refer to. Will you be teaching anything this year?
EJ: Thank you! Yes, I will be teaching at Storymakers this year. I’m doing an outlining class with Ali Cross, and also sitting on a critique group panel. In addition to that, I’m speaking in the Cache School district to 7th-9th graders about art and creativity in March, and I’m speaking at a teen science fiction and fantasy workshop at BYU in April.
CH: Tell us about WriteOnCon. What is it? Who should go? What sets it apart from other conferences?
EJ: WriteOnCon is an online writer’s conference. It’s free – and it’s for everyone! We have authors, agents, and editors who write blog posts, record vlogs, and conduct live events, all in the effort to help aspiring writers make connections with each other and in the industry, improve their craft, and move toward publication.
It’s unique because it’s free, and it’s online so it really is available to EVERYONE, anywhere in the world.
CH: Here at ADDICTED, we’d love to know what you’re addicted to. Is there anything you can’t live without?
EJ: Chocolate cake, key lime pie, bacon, and reality TV. I take all of those in small doses, except for the TV!
Elana, what a pleasure! Thanks for stopping by to answer our questions. I love all the things I learn from authors a little further down the trail and doing great things!
To learn more about Elana, check out her list of great books and keep up with her new releases, head over to her blog, Goodreads, or Amazon.com. And as always, if you love what you read here, please share it with a friend!
February 25, 2014
Can’t Wait to READ
Last week I was flying long distances, cramped into a tiny seat, crammed against the window, cradling my infant son in my lap while wishing I had the forethought to download a few books onto my phone with it’s negligible battery life to distract me when the grand view didn’t suffice. Needless to say, it was a very long flight. 6+ hours of endless nothing. I couldn’t get my “Amaze”ing phone to link up with the inflight internet to mindlessly scroll through Facebook, the only book downloaded onto my Kindle wasn’t cutting it…I kept rewriting it in my head and that’s just no good. And since my arms were full of sweet baby, I couldn’t write either (though I tried using my phone for that too. Just too slow!). Don’t get me wrong, I actually adored holding that little guy with nothing else to do. It was more the cramped conditions I was trying to distract myself from.
Now, with Nevada Reading Week only a few days away, I wanted to throw out a small list of books I WISH I could have read while flying back and forth across the grand ol’ US of A. Links are provided, so go download or order some of these puppies!
Cress by Marissa Meyers. I have been WAITING so impatiently for this third installment in the Lunar Chronicles to come out. I NEED to know what is happening to my favorites, Cinder and Scarlet! Join the revolution and get your copy today! (P.S. I met Marissa two years ago at the Vegas Valley Book Festival and she was SO nice and incredibly easy to talk to. Be watching for an interview with the fabulous Mrs. Meyers in the next few weeks!)
Elevated by Elana Johnson. Just out this past week, I’ve been drooling over the cover and premise of Elevated since the Cover Reveal not too long ago. I’d love a pair of those red heels, and I’m even more excited to dive into this book. I’ll be posting a recent interview with Elana very soon, so be watching to learn more about her, her methods, and this gorgeous cover!
My Life Next Door by Huntley Fitzpatrick. I’m interested to see how the premise in this book pans out. Looking in on the perfect family next door completely rings true for my childhood.
Archived by Victoria Schwab – Libraries…but different. Intriguing…
Pivot Point by Kasie West. I can remember a lot of great recommendations on this book, but I never quite got to read it. Now’s my chance and it’s officially on my list.
What are you dying to read this week? Have you read any of the titles on my list? I’d love to hear what you think!
P.S. Looking for a great read? Check out A Heart So Broken on Kindle and in paperback on Amazon.com!
P.P.S Brodie Ashton, Lindsey Leavitt and Tera Lynn Childs will be signing books for all their Vegas fans tonight at the Rainbow Barnes and Noble. Grab your friends or your honey and go visit these talented ladies!
Happy Reading my friends!
February 14, 2014
Author Interview – {Kimberly Krey}
Speaking of LOVE, we’re ending the week with another something I love: the debut of the Author Interview Series! Weekly, or biweekly, depending on the moon and other undisclosed factors, I’ll be posting an interview with authors and industry pros from many different genres where we can learn about them, their books and their methods.
The lovely Kimberly Krey
Today we’re talking to the talented Kimberly Krey, an Indie author with a pair of Western Romances just perfect to download for the Romance Addict in your life.
Jade’s Cowboy Crush by Kimberly Krey
Her latest, JADE’S COWBOY CRUSH is out now on Amazon where you can also find her first in the series CASSIE’S COWBOY CRAVE. I’m thrilled to have Kim here to answer a few questions:
CH: I grew up reading clean romances, and cowboys are some of my favorite heroes! What inspired you to begin this series about the witness protection twist?
KK: The witness protection theme intrigued me for two reasons: First, it adds and element of danger, which makes it more exciting, of course. Second, I liked that my lady leads would be pulled away from their homes and into this whole new world.
CH: Have you always written? What was the first thing you remember writing?
KK: I can’t say I’ve always written, but I do remember writing a story back in third grade or so. I still have it somewhere. I think it was called ‘The Mystery Noise’. It was about little kids who kept hearing strange noises from a neighbor’s shed. Once they finally worked up the nerve to inspect it, they discover it’s a harmless little kitten who’s in need of a home.
CH: You have a book that is not part of the Cowboy Romance series. Tell us about the premise and where we can find it.
KK: Yeah – Evie’s Knight is my first published novel. Here it is in one sentence: When Evie falls in love with Calvin Knight, their love provokes a murderous woman from beyond the grave who wants Evie dead. Cheery, right? Ha ha. It’s a really fun read with a paranormal twist but at the heart it is a romance, since that’s what I enjoy writing most. You can find it here on Amazon.
CH: How long does a typical book take you from start to the finished product ready for posting on Amazon?
KK: From start to finish, I’d say it takes six months for me to complete romance novels the size of Cowboy Crave and Cowboy Crush. Once I finish Reese’s story, Cowboy Kiss, I’ll be writing a related series of novellas that I’m hoping to put out in closer to three or four months. I should note that I spent approx. five years getting Evie’s Knight ready, being my first book and all. I had so much to learn, so the writing alone took much longer. I rewrote the book many times as well, and queried several agents along the way.
CH: You’ve chosen to self publish through Amazon. What are your top three tips for an aspiring author who is thinking about going the Indie route?
KK:
1. Don’t rush. Going the indie route allows us to put our work out there much sooner than traditional publishing. While this can be a great thing, it can also be to our detriment. It’s easy to get excited about a story, throw a cover together, and put it out there before it’s ready. Take your time and get it right first.
2. Find beta readers. As writers, we are much too close to our work, and don’t always see its flaws. And while our critique partners (and our moms) help get us to new amazing levels, it’s still not quite enough. Get a few more people (those who like to read your genre) who are willing to provide honest feedback. You don’t want anyone reading it like it’s broken (looking for all the places that need fixing) but they should be able to spot places that just don’t jive. This can be invaluable.
3. Do your research. There is so much information out there. Lots of tips and ideas about what and who can help sell your indie book. Before you put time, effort, and or money into these options, check into the results they generate. Say, if you’re considering having someone promote your book, first look at the current and recent books they’ve promoted. See how they rank in sales (listed under Product Details on Amazon). If the books they are promoting aren’t doing so well, you may want to keep on looking.
CH: Who is your favorite of the cowboy brothers?
KK: That’s a hard one. I love them all for different reasons.
I love Gavin’s rebellious edge and his devotion to being a better man.
Blake’s respect and appreciation for women.
And Shane’s playful ways and passionate nature.
CH: When you launch your book, do you have a launch party, or is your celebration strictly cyber based?
KK: Cyber, baby! That’s where it’s at for me.
CH: If you could write and sell anything, what would it be?
KK: I’m happy to say it’d be exactly what I’m writing and selling now. Stories that I would enjoy reading myself – that’s what I aim for.
CH: After our time at a recent retreat, I’ve learned you have a discerning palate. What is your favorite snack while writing?
KK: I’ll pretty much munch on whatever I have around the house. But my favorite is Tassos (jalapeno and garlic stuffed green olives) with Brie cheese and crackers. I’ve got a taste for savory. Sweets aren’t normally my weakness.
CH: When you finish a book, how do you celebrate?
KK: I love cracking open a bottle of sparkling cider and treating myself to a tall, beautiful glass of it. That one’s just for me. With the family, I’d say a night out to dinner is best!
CH: You have a set of beta readers and critique partners who help to fine tune and perfect your novels. What are some tips to finding good partners? What should we look for?
KK: I sort of touched on this one earlier, but I’d say make sure the people you have going over your work appreciate what you’re trying to accomplish. They shouldn’t be trying to give you a new voice, just helping to make yours shine in the best possible light. It’s been quite a journey for me, but I’m a firm believer in prayer, so I’ve always prayed for help in finding people who could help me the most.
CH: You have a new book out on the cyber shelves. What are you working on now?
KK: Reese’s Cowboy Kiss, which is third (chronologically first) in the Sweet Montana Bride series. Quick blurb: Reese, a Texan pageant queen, gets shipped to Emerson Ranch after witnessing an attempted murder. To complicate things, she learns the bullet was meant for her. Now she’s on a ranch with a handful of cowboys who are wildly attractive and more flirtatious than laws should allow. But Blake is the one who’s stolen her heart. And though she’s certain he feels the same, something seems to be holding him back. Will Blake step up before Reese gets sent back to Texas, or will the very thing she ran from catch up with her before she even leaves?
CH: As a busy Mom, how do you fit writing time into your day? Is it a dedicated time every day, or do you fit it in when you can?
KK: When I first started my kids were younger, so I often wrote while everyone was sleeping. Early morning. Late night. You name it. Now, with all my kids in school during the day, I make that my writing time and do very little on nights or over the weekend.
CH: I read that for this last book you had a certain song that really inspired you. What usually inspires you while writing? Do you have a playlist for each book? Do you have Pinterest boards for your books?
KK: I grounded myself from pinterest the very day I created an account because I feared I would never ever finish another book again with it in my life. I seriously LOVED nearly everything I saw on there. So no – I don’t have a board for the books. But I do find music particularly inspiring. I usually muse on my characters daily. While driving, doing the dishes. Whenever. Sometimes the words to a song will relate to exactly what my character is dealing with and it’s like I’ve just entered their world for a while. I really love when that happens. I love feeling my characters, and I hope it helps my readers relate to them too.
CH: Tease us with one of your favorite scenes, from any of your books.
KK: How about one that’s been referred to as the ‘pantry scene’ from Cassie’s Cowboy Crave. Shane and Cassie are posing as a married couple. When Shane’s young nephew asks him why he doesn’t kiss Cassie like the other husbands kiss their wives, Cassie looks right into his eyes and repeats the question: “Yeah Shane, why don’t you?” The challenge is on, and Shane rises to the occasion in a passionate display that starts in the kitchen, onlookers all but forgotten, and then continues in the pantry when Shane decides to take things behind a closed door. It’s a really fun (and scrumptious) scene and most definitely one of my favorites!
CH: Lastly – here at ADDICTED we need to know…do you have any addictions?
KK: Oh yeah – I’m most definitely addicted to Altoids minis, Soft lips Chapstick, and sadly, I’m weaning myself off Diet Coke.
These have been such fun questions!
Thank you for letting me visit your lovely blog!
I’m hoping we can chat in person next time, preferably over some fine cheese and sparkling cider!
Sounds like a wonderful plan to me, Kim! Go download her latest release: JADE’S COWBOY CRUSH today!
February 12, 2014
For Moi?
Talking about love brings a myriad of emotions. We think of our sweethearts, our hearts tug when we consider our little munchkins, friends, siblings, parents…they all make the list ahead of one person.
YOU!
Am I right? Loving ourselves is often unfairly forced to wrestle with the concept of selfishness and narcissism. We avoid taking care of ourselves while “waiting for Superman to lift us up and show us love.” Is it no wonder we end up resentful, depleted and generally disappointed. This leaves our sweeties feeling increasingly confused as to HOW to love us when we refuse to love ourselves and (heaven forbid!) ask for what we need.
This is the place I spend a lot of my time, and I’m in rehab. Rehab for forgetting myself. A twelve step program for martyrs who let someone else get everything they need while huffing out resentful sighs. There’s a special section in this recovery zone for mothers, wives and women in general. Not always, but OFTEN, women are the ones who end up beleaguered and overwhelmed, beating themselves up until they need to get a restraining order from THEMSELVES!
Does this resonate with anyone?
Yeah, me to.
TWELVE STEPS is a lot for a Wednesday, so I’m going to give a FIVE STEP program for loving yourself. Put aside your protests. Tie up that bully in your head and just consider what it would be like if you put these steps into practice everyday. And then check yourself in. It’s time to start loving the amazing YOU that God has created.
1. Give yourself permission -
To create, to breathe, to leave dishes in the sink at night. Give yourself permission to be imperfect, messy and just a bit out of control. It’s hard to keep a balance, it honestly is. I’m still finding it post baby. We have swung fairly far into the chaos side of things, the place where I feel completely uncomfortable. However, Saturday my infamous hallway got vacuumed. Terribly. By an eleven year old who really just wanted to be playing on his Kindle. But it’s done and I can breathe easier knowing one layer of mess has been conquered and it will continue to be until we find that beautiful balance that comes with allowing myself to ask for help and let things be imperfect.
2. Take Five -
Or thirty. Give yourself a self induced TIME OUT once a day. Wake up fifteen minutes earlier. Stay up a little later. Lock yourself in the bathroom or in your closet. Put on a really good show for the Littles and hop in the shower with a candle burning (and the door locked so you don’t have to worry!). Allow yourself a moment to breathe (again, highly recommended!), to pray, to think about what your priorities are and what you can let go. You need this if only to close your eyes and find your center – no matter how you do it. No one can keep running on fumes forever. It’s impossible. When we force that on our bodies, on our spirits, addictions – the kind that aren’t funny or admirable – become a reality. Don’t do it. Allow yourself to be human.
3. Treat yourself
Each of us have something we’ve been putting off UNTIL. We’re waiting, denying ourselves the simple pleasures of life until we can’t handle it any longer. Why do we do that? Why do we refuse to get a babysitter when our hubbies end up working late. Instead we stay home fuming at missing that movie, that girl’s night out, that moment of relief that would have given us balance. I am slowly learning this. Go to that movie. Have that lunch out with your friends. Go hiking. Sign up for a race. Set aside creative time and honor it. Soak in the tub with a good book. Treat yourself to what you love, what gives you renewed energy and focus. In the words of Nike – JUST DO IT.
4. Work Toward Your Dreams
Make a vision board, take baby steps, LEAP! We live our best life when we are working toward our dreams. Look around. If your life is so bound down by obligations that you can’t work toward your dreams, it’s time to make some changes. They don’t have to be drastic. But every single step in the right direction is going to make your dreams come true. It starts by being TRUE to yourself about what you really love, even if it seems silly to everyone else. The best ideas, the greatest dreams, the most important goals are sometimes the ones other people would roll their eyes at. You know what? GO FOR IT! Let them roll their eyes because it’s not THEM you have to impress. This is about YOU and being true to your life’s purpose. Give yourself permission to LEAP.
5. Laugh
Seriously (ha ha!) LAUGH! We need a hefty sense of humor to make it through this life in one piece! Man, oh man do I forget this. I cannot tell you how much I appreciate someone who can make me laugh. I read your posts on FB or your Tweets and chuckle to myself and it feels like I’m five pounds lighter. Talk about a simple weight loss plan! We need to laugh. We need to find levity and light and happiness in this life and our own personal situation. There is never a day that should pass where we don’t laugh, smile and remember that LIFE IS GOOD. We take things way too seriously and it’s heavy. It’s heavy on our shoulders, it weighs down our children who delight in laughing over NOTHING (ever heard a three year old tell a Knock Knock Joke? That is true creativity! :)) If you don’t remember how, look at the Littles. They get it. Laughter is a part of their daily existence.
For my kids, it usually revolves around some kind of potty humor. You’re kids don’t do that? They don’t mention Poopie in every conversation. Oh. Neither do mine.
I don’t care how you do it. Watch a Youtube of Brian Reegan. Read the morning comics. Have a random toddler tell you a Knock Knock Joke. Whatever you do, LAUGH. Laugh and smile and breathe (there it is again!). Because YOU are worth it, you marvelous, beautiful, powerful human being. YOU, are worth it all.
