Katie Hamstead's Blog, page 48

REUTS Cover Artist: Ashley Ruggirello

Bio:Ashley Ruggirello is an author, designer and doting wife living in beer and cheese land, WI. When not lost in the fictional world of Skyrim, she can be found exploring typography, manipulating responsive <DIVS>, or with pen & paper in hand (figuratively though, as she uses Google Docs much more often), writing her New Adult novels. She considers herself a designer by nature and writing at heart, though she always wanted to make video game walk-throughs as a child. Ashley’s favorite color is chartreuse, and she has an undeniable attraction to moss (not of the Kate variety)
Links:Facebook  Twitter  Goodreads
1.     Tell us how you came to work with REUTS.Since my answer for this question in particular won't likely change, I hope you don't mind that I'm cheating and copy/pasting my answer from my Acquisitions Editor interview :)

I’ll probably have the most unique answer to this question as the founder of REUTS. In truth, REUTS was born out of frustration and disappointment. There’s a common phrase among authors, “Write the story you’d want to read. (Toni Morrison)” Applying that to my own publication journey, I decided to start REUTS as the “publisher I’d want to publish my story with. (Ashley Ruggirello)” And so, back in 2012 I partnered with other talented professionals, in disciplines I lacked (e.g. editing, sales, the cogs in a successful publishing machine . . .), and REUTS became a company based around the motto: do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Every aspect of REUTS was created with the author in mind. We’d constantly return to the same question: “What would I want out of my publishing company?” And those answers became the building blocks of all REUTS is. 
2.     What does your job entail? For the sake of this interview, I'll focus on my job as the Creative Director at REUTS. My background is in web and graphic design, which comes in handy when you have websites and book covers as soon of your main responsibilities (would you believe that I'm self taught, too?). As a CD, I work with the authors directly to come up what their ideal cover art might be--what their mind eye sees when they're writing/reading their story. In fact, that's the very first question I ask an author: No holds bar, unlimited resources and possibilities, what would your ideal cover be. And then we go from there. Usually that involves a lot of just dinking around, trying to find a direction that works. In fact, I documented my process once on my freelance Facebook page:

STEP ONE: I HAVE AN AWESOME IDEA.
STEP TWO: That execution doesn't work. Back to the drawing board.
STEP THREE: I have no ideas. I'm a complete failure.
STEP FOUR: I'm not going to be able to get this done in time!
STEP FIVE: Screw it, I'm just going to mess around. See what happens.
STEP SIX: Awesome cover art. Done.
I'm not even joking, this happens every time. 
3.     What do you enjoy most about creating book covers? Capturing a story in one visual. It seems that's something I have a knack for, but even still, with each cover new challenges present themselves, and I love working through the problems, figuring out a direction, and coming up with something not only I'm happy with, but the author is happy with. After all, it shouldn't matter to me what a cover looks like (say from a marketing perspective--I still want to make sure it'll look good on a bookshelf). When I hear an author squeal with joy at the sight of their new cover, that makes every moment of creative doubt worth it. 
Though I can't take all the credit. Sure, I have the technical skills to get a book cover done, but they probably couldn't come into existence it it weren't for my muse. And she has a name. One of my best friends, and the REUTS Editorial Director, Kisa Whipkey has quickly become my muse, whether she likes it or not (sorry Kisa!) Over the past couple of months, whenever I'm in a creative rut, all it takes is a little Kisa insight for me to get right back on track. Whenever she's involved in this process with me is when I tend to produce the best cover art. So this further echoes my sentiments that REUTS is a team effort.
4.     What have your experiences been like working with the authors? Authors are a creative bunch to start with, so many times they either have a fantastic idea to start with, or we have an awesome brainstorming session and come out with a few fantastic directions. I love working with creative people! Sure, sometimes that means it's a lot more likely for you to bump heads because, well let's face it, creatives all have an opinion ;) but it also means collaboration, and I've found collaborating with another individual never fails to bring out an even better design.5.     What is the hardest part in creating covers?Inspiration tends to waver depending on the day. I think the hardest part is finding the inspiration to coincide with the stock photography to coincide with the author's vision. I usually have a pretty good idea where I want to go at the start of a project (see Step One, above), but trying to make all the pieces to the puzzle fit can be downright frustrating! There have been days when I just sit and stare at my computer screen, hoping some sort of inspiration comes to me. But, instead of lightning striking an awesome idea, I just waste the day away. Sitting. Staring. It happens quite often, and it's easy to feel very defeated when the design just doesn't come to you. I've questioned my worth as a designer before, but thankfully I've stuck with it.6.     And what is the best part?Watching the pieces come together. That should be obvious, right? That's the whole point of why I do what I do. There's truly that magical moment where you have to stand back and take it all in. I know that sounds silly, especially because we're talking book cover art, but the cover is such an important element to a book. To finally nail it on the head, it's an exciting moment.7.     Last question; If you could meet anyone in history, who would it be and why?Oh boy, this could go in so many different directions. I'd have to say Freddie Mercury. I'd give anything to have been able to see him perform live. Not only does he ooze talent as the frontman of Queen, but he's such a stand-up guy. Just to be at one of his shows would have been enough, but to meet him... I think I'd die! (Side note: QUEEN tends to be my karaoke go-to. Duetting with Freddie Mercury would be the ultimate dream, though I know I'm totally not worthy).

REUTS Editor: Eleanor Kirk

Bio: Eleanor is a Classics student in university a year off finals. Resisting the temptation to mark up books with red pen is sometimes hard, though the craving is often assuaged by entertaining marginalia she finds in library books. Her desert island choices would be a solar-powered MP3 player with the compositions of Thomas Bergersen, a penknife (because they’re always useful), and antibiotics. Over a third of her life was spent in boarding school, and no, it wasn’t that like Hogwarts. (Moving staircases would have been cool.)Tell us how you came to work with REUTS.I was actually thinking about querying a trilogy there (currently still editing it—I never seem to be happy with it) and while in correspondence with Ashley I asked if they offered any kind of internships. She said that regretfully they didn’t because of the way that REUTS was set up, but I was welcome to apply for an editorial position, so I did.
What does your job entail?
A bit of everything, really—catching plot holes, pointing out areas to restructure, ensuring consistency of character, improving sentence flow, making sure there are no grammar mistakes . . . and just generally helping the author to make their story the best it can be.
What do you enjoy most about being an editor? 
It’s a different part of the writing process in that you’re working on a story you really love, but without having the struggle of writing it yourself. The particular thing about editing is that it’s like taking a stone or a piece of wood that’s rough around the edges and polishing it until it’s all smooth and shiny.The other thing is that it’s a learning curve. The more you do it, the better you get, and the better you get to know your strengths and weaknesses. It’s particularly interesting for me as I’m from the UK, so usually operate in British English, but at REUTs we work in US English, so that keeps me on my toes. I discovered the other day that “whinging” is not a term that’s used in America (you guys are missing out on a great word there).
What have your experiences been like working with the authors?
Really lovely and really rewarding. I’ve been fortunate that all the authors I’ve so far worked with have been very responsive and receptive to basically having their babies butchered. As somebody who loves writing myself, I know that it’s hard when somebody says to you that your favourite part doesn’t fit right in the scene and that you need to cut it.
What is the hardest part of being an editor?
Tactfully phrasing “this doesn’t work and needs to be cut” in an inoffensive manner, though I suppose trying to work with somebody who adamantly refused to change anything would probably be harder. But I haven’t encountered that. I suppose another thing (that I’ve only vaguely encountered) is editing a story you really like, but where the exact opposite to your viewpoint and ideals are encountered. Remaining objective about that can be quite hard.Each time I go into a project, too, I can’t help feeling nervous, because I’m often younger than the authors I’m editing for and that’s a bit nerve-wracking. I’ve been in environments before where the input of young people has been ignored or overlooked purely on grounds of age, but thankfully that’s never happened to me at REUTs.
And what is the best part?
Seeing the story grow and improve, and building up a rapport with the author.
Last question; If you could bring any book/movie/TV show to life, what would it be and why?I’m a huge fan of fantasy and one of my favourite books as a young teen was Stuart Hill’s The Cry of the Icemark. I was the same age as the heroine, Thirrin Freer Strong-in-the-arm Lindenshield, when I first read it and I connected with her on so many levels. The vampire king and queen are my favourite vampires from teen fiction (particularly the vampire king in the third book of the trilogy) and who wouldn’t want an affectionate giant snow leopard for a best friend? Plus I really enjoyed the way that Thirrin and Oskan’s relationship was never rushed (and, oddly, the thing I liked best about it was how little of it happened on screen, if I can use that phrase of a book).

REUTS Acquisitions Editor: Kisa Whipkey

Bio: Kisa Whipkey is a dark fantasy author, a martial arts demo team expert, and a complete sucker for Cadbury Mini-eggs. She's also the Editorial Director for YA/NA publisher, REUTS Publications. She developed a passion for storytelling at a young age and has pursued that love through animation, writing, video game design, and demo teams, until finally finding her home in editing. She believes in good storytelling, regardless of medium, and applauds anything featuring a snarky lead character, a complicated narrative structure, and brilliant/uncommon analogies. Currently, she lives in the soggy Pacific Northwest with her husband and plethora of electronics.
Her personal blog--featuring sarcastic commentary on all things storytelling--is located at www.kisawhipkey.com. Or connect with her via Twitter: @kisawhipkey. And, of course, to learn more about REUTS Publications, please visit www.reuts.com.
1.      Tell us how you came to work with REUTS.
Well, that’s kind of a long story, and since you’ll see me again in my main role as Editorial Director, I’ll save it for that. The short of it is this: I answered an ad on Deviantart.com and the rest is history. You’ll see. ;)The way I ended up in acquisitions specifically is a little different though. Like I said, I’m primarily the Editorial Director, so I was hired as an editor first. Acquisitions came second. We quickly decided that we wanted to do acquisitions via a panel system, rather than the traditional format where each acquisitions editor makes decisions independently, and then has to sell the rest of the team on a manuscript. And since each of the directorship roles brought something unique to the table, we decided to make that our acquisitions panel and cut out the middle step.How does this pertain to the question? Like so: I was brought into acquisitions to speak on behalf of the Editorial Department and cast my vote accordingly. Which is the perfect segue into the next question, no?
2.      What does your job entail? 

Pretty much what you’d expect—I read incoming submissions, analyze them, and respond based on my assessment of where they fit in the market and how much editorial work they’re likely to need. I also get to attend conferences and connect with authors in person, as well as scouting for new talent in a variety of places.

This job embodies the glamorous side of publishing everyone envisions when you say “editor.” But it’s definitely not all sunshine and rainbows. We’ll get to that in a moment, though.


3.      What do you enjoy most about being an acquisitions editor? 

Meeting new authors and discovering manuscript gems waiting to be snatched up and introduced into the world. Seriously, it’s like literary archaeology. And who doesn’t want to feel like Indiana Jones?
But beyond the thrill of the hunt, I’d say that there’s something amazing about helping someone’s dreams come true. The joy of handing someone that long awaited “yes,” of offering them the validation their hard work deserves, is one of the best feelings in the world. Second only to watching them step into the limelight on release day. ;)
4.      What have your experiences been like working with the authors?

Generally good. I enjoy the enthusiasm, the hope, the passion people have for their stories. I find storytelling to be magical, so meeting fellow people who share that love is always fantastic. And I’m always so honored when someone entrusts me (and REUTS) with their baby. It’s a privilege, and I take that to heart.


5.      What is the hardest part of being an acquisitions editor?

I could say the expected response—the rejections—but that’s actually not the hardest part for me. It’s not fun, don’t get me wrong, but it’s not the part of the job that bothers me most. That would actually be the heartbreak that comes with falling in love with a manuscript, and then having it ripped away because the author was never serious about working with us. (As opposed to someone who is, but then goes with a different press instead. That’s also heartbreaking, but understandable.)
I don’t know if this is common in other parts of the industry, but I know it plagues the small presses, and it’s a behavior I find unsettling and disrespectful. An agent’s or editor’s time is an extremely limited resource and therefore valuable. I, for one, would rather give that time to people who appreciate and deserve it, rather than those who are looking to leverage my enthusiasm into a better deal elsewhere. Authors, you know how little you like being told no? Well, that’s a two-way street. Why give me something, let me fall in love with it, and then break my heart? Trust me, I don’t forget that, and it tends to tarnish your future chances with me. As I think it does for any editor or agent. And here’s something else to keep in mind—publishing is a small world, and we talk.
6.      And what is the best part?

Oh, I guess I kind of answered this one already, didn’t I? The best part is hands down the moment I get to give someone their dream on a shiny platter. I mean, I love that feeling of completely swooning over a book, and the book hangovers that go on for days, but for me, it’s really all about the author. I want to give them their moment in the sun. It’s not about my payoff; it’s about theirs.
7.      What kind of manuscripts do you enjoy and are looking for, and how can an author submit to you?

I’m a fan of a wide range, from historical fiction to sci-fi, fantasy to romance, and even mystery. My favorite genres are definitely fantasy though, preferably of the dark variety. I’ve seen some strong contenders in the high fantasy realm lately, but I’d still really like to find some more dark fantasy. The twistier, the better. If you’re the Gillian Flynn of the fantasy world, I want you. I’m also looking for brilliant magic realism, intriguing meta-fantasy, and witty contemporary pieces.
Authors can submit to me with a query and the first ten pages of their manuscript via our online submission form or through kisa@reuts.com.

8.      Last question; If you were suddenly struck by lightning/bitten by something/exposed to toxic waste, and ended up with super powers, what would it be and why?

This answer varies depending on the day (I love super heroes!), but right now, I would have to say something like super speed or time-morphing. Anything that would let me cram even a few more hours into my crazy, whirlwind life. That’s the little known downfall of being an editor—of any type—by the way. It’s not all glamour and reading. It’s a lot of intense work, and you’re always scrambling to catch up. So a time-based power would definitely be the one for me.

REUTS Author Interview: Emily Taylor

Emily Taylor began writing in early primary school and after two novellas, which will never see the light of day, she began to join writing sites. She finished her first novel, Blood of Angels, on Goodreads before moving to the disbanded Inkpop. There she finished her second novel, To Turn Left, which hit the Top 5. Figment bought Inkpop in 2012, making her the last ever Inkie of the Week, and To Turn Left became a “handpicked fig” by author Jackson Pearce that same year. Recently,Taylor has become more active on Wattpad, finishing Unmask Me, A Soul to Take and a remake of Blood of Angels, which won Watty Awards for On The Rise, Horror/Paranormal.

Besides writing, Taylor currently studies Music Technology at her state’s Conservatorium and in 2012, helped with Respect Cat Production’s feature film, In a Corner, as a Script Advisor. She is also taking screenwriting electives on the side.

A Soul to Take is her first formally published work and Book One of The Soul Stealer’s Trilogy, a New Adult paranormal romance.
https://twitter.com/emtaylorinkiehttps://www.facebook.com/taylorauthor
http://www.wattpad.com/user/emilytaylorinkiehttps://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8042081.Emily_Taylor
1.      Tell us how you came to be an Author with REUTS.I was actually discovered on the writing site Figment by owner Ashley. She messaged me out of the blue about this new writing agency she was starting in 2013, and if I was interested in submitting my novel. You can imagine my shock and excitement at the request. Of course, I seized the opportunity, and joined the family.
2.      What do you enjoy most about being a REUTS Author?The community. Everyone is extremely friendly, and it’s nice knowing they are there to support you and help in any way they can.
3.      What have your experiences been like working toward being published?Fun and fascinating. Like I was saying before, it’s just great having this team dedicated in assisting you. I’m learning so much.
4.      What would you have done differently?Compact everything to a smaller deadline. We’ve had a few delays with my novel, unfortunately, that have been outside of our control. But while frustrating, in the end of the day, my novel has become so much more and if things had occurred when they should of, I know I wouldn’t have been at the level of writing I am now, and I cringe at what could have been. Funny how things works out like that.
5.      How has your book been marketed?Through blog tours featuring trailers, visual “quote” promos, interviews, guest posts etc. I love this side of things, and try to be as involved as I can. Marketing is half the fun!
6.      Any advice on how to better market a book?My team at REUTs have done everything I would have thought of up to date; it all comes down to exposure and luck in the end, and without forking out heaps of money, you are a bit restricted. The best thing to do is be active. Make friends. Put yourself out there. A team can only do so much without you making the leap and engaging your audience.
7.      Last question; If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go, when would it be, and what would you be wearing?
There are so many places I want to go! But Japan would have to be first. Preferably in the bloom of Cherry Blossoms. I don’t know what I would be wearing—I usually wear spring dresses/playsuits with black high-top sneakers and floppy hat.


The world has changed. Demons are no longer legend, but part of life, integrated into our society . . . or so the Government claims. Things are never that simple, though, and neither side favors the new union. Agent Elixia Albelin knows the dark nature of demons firsthand, and will do everything in her power to protect the innocent from their wrath.

But when a mission from the Agency goes sour, Elixia finds herself in a predicament. Murdered, with her last living family-member kidnapped, her only hope is an offer from the very thing she despises: a demon. It’s no ordinary demon offering the contract, though, and his motive for such a deal is unclear. But if she's to discover the truth and save her sister, she must commit the greatest taboo for an Agent:

Sell her soul. 

Now, Marked and shackled to the terms of the contract, she must try to uncover the mystery of her sister's abduction before her new "owner" comes to claim what is his. Her past may hold answers, but what happens when her investigation finds something far more sinister? Something not even the demons can condone?

Review: Fool's Ride (The Jenkin's Cycle Book 2) by John L. Monk

From Goodreads:
Dan Jenkins is back, body hopping a scumbag at a time in his quest for the perfect ride. He doesn’t need much. Premium cable TV, good books, a well-stocked pantry, and he's set. But the Great Whomever has other plans.

After six months waiting in limbo, Dan catches a ride as a horror novelist whose gruesome stories aren’t just fiction. Later, he hunts a man who’s escaped justice for far too long. Then, in his greatest challenge yet, he strays too deeply into the lives of the people he loves: his most foolish ride of all.

My Thoughts:
So reading this was off my schedule, but I loved book 1 so much I couldn't help myself.
Jut like book 1, Kick, Dan's adventures start from page one as he tries to work out the weird and twisted world of his "rides" This time around he has some doozies, too. It probably doesn't help that I'm pregnant and have small children, and the victims of his rides are those two things. Add in my pregnancy hormones and I was in for an emotional ride!
But this time, Dan's real life past returns, as well as the minister from Kick. It makes me wonder where Dan is headed, and I'm eager for the next installment.
I just don't have words without handing out spoilers. But this book is worth everyone's time. It's something I can't put down, and Dan's conflict while also trying to have some fun makes him the perfect character for his body hopping situation.
Looking forward to the continuation of this series.

REUTS Author Interview: Anoosha Lalani

Website / Twitter Anoosha Lalani has always had an insatiable desire to escape reality. It was a childhood trait that never seemed to fade out. If Anoosha were to make one wish, it would be to have wings to journey off the face of this planet and into the worlds of her stories. 

When she’s not writing, you may find Anoosha attending McGill University in Montreal. Having moved around so much, she has had the wonderful opportunity to be exposed to a vibrant range of cultures, which often seem to find their way into her stories. Anoosha was born in Pakistan, the setting of her most recent novel, The Keepers.


1.     

    Tell us how you came to be an Author with REUTS.Well, I was doing my research on indie publishing presses and I came across REUTS. I decided to submit. They liked my work and I signed a contract on my 18thbirthday. That is how I stand before you today as an official REUTS author!
2.     What do you enjoy most about being a REUTS Author?I love the community. Everyone at REUTS is so supportive and not only did they really help make my work the best that it could be, they gave me the control I wanted over small things like the cover. They brought this perfect little picture in my head to life in exactly the way that I wanted.
3.     What have your experiences been like working toward being published?This is my first novel and so far, my experience has been great! That part before your book is actually released is very exciting. I loved editing and coming up with cover ideas. However, none of it felt truly real till I was actually holding my book in my hands.
4.     What would you have done differently?Nothing! My experience has been wonderful and I really would not change a thing.
5.     How has your book been marketed?I have attended an author event, done virtual interviews, and written guest posts for THE KEEPERS blog tour, organized by REUTS. A trailer was also made to publicize my book.
6.     Any advice on how to better market a book?Though I do love the online marketing that REUTS has set up for my book, I would like to get a more personal connection with my readers and face-to-face events are something that I will be looking further into. I guess that is something I would advice others to do as well. It’s nice being able to actually talk to your readers.
7.     Last question; If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go, when would it be, and what would you be wearing? Having travelled an insane amount, this is such a hard question for me. I want to go everywhere, but if I had to choose only one place, it would be Fiji during the summer! I would be in scuba gear, ready to go diving! 
Goodreads / Amazon / B & N /
Sixteen-year-old Isra Kalb has grown up starving in the slums of Islamabad. But hunger is only the beginning. When her father is mysteriously murdered and madness corrupts her mother’s mind, she’s left alone to fend for herself and her sister. Homeless and destitute, the only thing she has to remember her loving family by is a commonplace necklace–an amulet barely worth keeping.
Or so she thinks.
Swept into a web of lies, deceit and turmoil, Isra struggles to find a place for herself and Zaffirah, wondering if the strange creatures and visions she’s seeing are indications of the madness that took her mother. But when Snatchers capture Zaffirah, Isra learns her amulet isn’t so useless after all. Transported to Zarcane–the beastly garden where Adam and Eve were born–Isra comes face to face with her destiny. She’s a Keeper, charged with protecting the borders of Zarcane and keeping the demon hordes lurking in the shadows from taking realms that are not their own. And she’s not the only one; there’s a second Keeper, a boy whose identity hasn’t been revealed.
Now, in order to save her sister and fulfill her family’s legacy as Keeper of the Amulet, she has to find the second Keeper and close the borders.
Surrounded by betrayal, trapped between warring factions of angels, and desperate to save the only family she has left, Isra must decide:
Who can she trust when nothing is what it seems?

REUTS Marketing Guru: Summer Wier

We have Summer again today! Yay! I actually LOVE Summer and her novel, Link, that's coming out soon, so you need to watch this lady.
BIO:Summer Wier is an MBA toting accountant, undercover writer, and all around jack-of-all-trades. She loves reading anything with a smart story and pretty writing.  Link  is her debut novel and the first in The Shadow of Light series. She has three short stories appearing in  Fairly Twisted Tales For A Horribly Ever After  and co-authors the  Splinter  web serial. When she’s not digging through spreadsheets or playing mom, you can find her reading/writing, cooking, or dreaming of the mountains in Montana.Connect with Summer via Twitter @summerwier OR visit her website www.summerwier.com.


1.      Tell us how you came to work with REUTS.Wanting to gain experience in the publishing industry, I inquired about open positions and was initially hired on as a Jr. Editor and Acquisitions Assistant. Not long after, REUTS posted they were looking for a marketing guru, which just happens to be my specialty! So my career as a Jr. Editor was short-lived, but I continued as part of the acquisitions team when I accepted the position as Marketing Director.
2.      What does your job entail? Oh boy, where to begin. I work individually with our authors to formulate a author marketing plan and identify methods that work best with their strengths. The fabulous Tiffany Triechel and I create promo materials and coordinate cover reveals and blog tours (though she is the magic behind the blog tours). Together, REUTS founder Ashley Ruggirello and I tag team social media efforts and PR responsibilities. Ashley and I also develop marketing strategies for the company as a whole, while analyzing competition, and identifying paths for future growth.
3.      What do you enjoy most about marketing? The great thing about marketing is that each day is totally different from every other day. With different projects continuously rotating through, I always have something unique to work on. It's also a ton of fun to help promote fantastic titles and interact with our authors and readers.
4.      What have your experiences been like working with the authors and promoters?Thus far my experiences working with authors and promoters have been super positive. Each author brings different strengths and ideas to the table. Since we have authors in many different areas, it's also cool to discover events and venues in different regions. And the promoters I've worked with are super fun and energetic. What's not to love about that?
5.      What is the hardest part in marketing?The hardest thing about marketing is keeping up with everything. There's a massive amount of pre-release planning, followed by post-release activities, followed by collecting and analyzing data, vetting new promotional avenues and events—marketing is a live beast that requires constant maintenance. And though usually similar promotions can work for a variety of projects (a blog tour, for example), every project is different and yields different results. But whether efforts are successes or failures, there is always something to be learned that can contribute to future campaigns.  
6.      And what is the best part?This is somewhat covered in #3, but I'll add one last tidbit. It's great to see marketing efforts in action, and there's nothing greater than seeing promotional materials in action and achieving goals for author success.
7.      Last question; If you could meet anyone in history, who would it be and why?I'm totally lame at choosing kind of stuff. *thinks for a million years* So you didn't say it had to be a real person. If I could meet anyone in history, I think I'd choose Kiya. (That's right, your Kiya.) I love history, but it's often times filled with very sad stories. I'm fascinated with Egyptian mythology, and I love how the Kiya series has such a real-life feel to it. I'd like to imagine that Naomi was a real woman who, though torn between her heritage/religion and royal demands, was as great and as strong as she was portrayed in your story. And if I could, I'd love to meet her.

REUTS Editor: Cait Spivey

Bio: Cait Spivey is a speculative fiction writer, author of the paranormal novella series, “The Web”. In addition to working on these and many other projects, she is a developmental editor for REUTS Publications and a freelancer with Bear and Black Dog Editing, LLC. She is currently assistant to Saritza Hernandez of Corvisiero Literary Agency. Formerly, she was a generalist reader for literary agent Jenny Bent, and lead editor for more than a dozen novels with Curiosity Quills Press.
Cait has been the editor for two books with REUTS:  The Keepers  by Anoosha Lalani (out now!) and the upcoming Off Book by Jessica Dall.
1.      Tell us how you came to work with REUTS.I met the Editorial Director of REUTS, Kisa Whipkey, on Twitter somehow or another. When we realized we both lived in the same area, we started hanging out and quickly became friends. The process that followed is hazy, but we both sort of arrived at the idea that I might fit in well with the REUTS team, so I applied. Ashley (Ruggirello, Creative Director and Founder) agreed, so I became a REUTS editor.
2.      What does your job entail?I’m sort of an all-in-one editor in the sense that I do developmental and copy editing simultaneously. Kisa usually does some structural/developmental work with the authors before the manuscripts come to me, but I still evaluate big picture arcs as well as the line-level stuff. The author and I work collaboratively on the manuscript in Google Docs, which I have to say is a pretty great way to do it. It really strengthens the relationship between the editor and the author because we can have a conversation about it right then and there. That’s important to me because I want to make sure the author understands the critiques I’m giving. It also means that if I notice a pattern, the author can see that comment and work ahead of me to correct it through the rest of the MS, which saves us both a lot of time and frustration.Because we work on the doc at the same time, the number of rounds or passes gets pretty nebulous, but I do end up going over the document probably two or three times on average. 3.      What do you enjoy most about being an editor?The best is definitely when you can really feel the story coming together, when you read over it for the fourth time and just think, “yes, yes, yes!”
4.      What have your experiences been like working with the authors?So far, I’ve only worked with two authors for REUTS (except for the Project REUTSway Anthology), but Anoosha and Jessica have both been fantastic. There’s nothing better than a receptive author--and I don’t necessarily mean an author who just does what I tell them. When you work with an editor you have to be ready to brainstorm and collaborate, to incorporate feedback, to consider changes that can potentially be huge. Having an author who is willing and even excited to dig in with me and do the work is the dream, and that’s been Anoosha and Jessica.
5.      What is the hardest part of being an editor?Doubt. Yes, editors feel it too. As much as we wish we could ensure that the manuscript comes out perfect and will be adored by everyone, we can’t. All we can do is apply all of our instinct, experience, and knowledge to the manuscript. This, FYI, is why it’s important to talk to your editor about your goals for the book, where you want it to go, what you want readers to focus on, etc.
6.      And what is the best part?The journey from beginning to end. This can be a little bittersweet if you’re foolish enough to read reviews, because you’ve seen how far the manuscript came and the reviewers have no idea, but it’s still so awesome to know exactly how hard the author worked on their book. Great authors are truly dedicated to putting in those hours and it’s pretty amazing.
7.      Last question; If you could bring any book/movie/TV show to life, what would it be and why?Tough question. I’m going to be unoriginal and say Harry Potter, because the world-building makes it so easy to imagine that world being real and fitting in nicely with the world as it is now.

REUTS Acquisitions Editor: Ashley Ruggirello

Bio:Ashley Ruggirello is an author, designer and doting wife living in beer and cheese land, WI. When not lost in the fictional world of Skyrim, she can be found exploring typography, manipulating responsive <DIVS>, or with pen & paper in hand (figuratively though, as she uses Google Docs much more often), writing her New Adult novels. She considers herself a designer by nature and writing at heart, though she always wanted to make video game walk-throughs as a child. Ashley’s favorite color is chartreuse, and she has an undeniable attraction to moss (not of the Kate variety)
Links:Facebook  Twitter  GoodreadsTell us how you came to work with REUTS.I’ll probably have the most unique answer to this question as the founder of REUTS. In truth, REUTS was born out of frustration and disappointment. There’s a common phrase among authors, “Write the story you’d want to read. (Toni Morrison)” Applying that to my own publication journey, I decided to start REUTS as the “publisher I’d want to publish my story with. (Ashley Ruggirello)” And so, back in 2012 I partnered with other talented professionals, in disciplines I lacked (e.g. editing, sales, the cogs in a successful publishing machine . . .), and REUTS became a company based around the motto: do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Every aspect of REUTS was created with the author in mind. We’d constantly return to the same question: “What would I want out of my publishing company?” And those answers became the building blocks of all REUTS is.
What does your job entail? 
I touch a little bit of everything, and a lot of nothing. As the Owner I handle most of the behind-the-scenes workings of REUTS--accounting, email correspondence, managing, etc… I’m privy to all the directors doings and projects taking place at any time. So, while I handle a lot, it’s the directors who mainly handle their discipline. REUTS truly is a team endeavour.
What do you enjoy most about being an acquisitions editor? 
Reading! I think I’ve read more now than I have in my entire life, and I’ve always been a big reader. But, even more than that, it’s seeing the heart and soul someone puts into their story, and being one of the first they’ve entrusted to read it. There’s something very special about that, and humbling to realize an individual trusts you with their pride and joy--their baby. I started as an author. I know how terrifying it is to press Send, so I’ll forever be grateful to the authors who choose to submit to REUTS and allow us the opportunity to consider their story.
What have your experiences been like working with the authors?
Authors are like cautious, protective parents, and rightly so. They’ve spent a lot of time with their manuscript, nursing it to health, patching up the holes, and growing it into complete story. There’s no question an author will have questions and concerns when embarking on a new journey with, what essentially is, their child. As a boutique agency we don’t work with as many authors as one of the Big 5 might which, in my opinion, is how I’d like to keep REUTS. It allows each of our team members to touch a project, and I know I never want to be the hands-off owner. Working with 12-24 authors a year allows us to be very personal, and as our website says, we becomes fully invested in our authors and become their biggest cheering section!
What is the hardest part of being an acquisitions editor?
Saying no. I know that’s cliche to say, but it’s absolutely true. So true I wrote a blog post on the official REUTS blog documenting how difficult it is on the other side of the email (you can check it out HERE). It’s really an awful thing to have to do, especially having gone through it myself. But, unfortunately, that’s the name of the publishing game, and it’s something that must be done. We wish we could publish every story that crosses our proverbial table, but that’s just impossible.
And what is the best part?
You thought my last answer was cliche, get a load of this: Saying yes, of course! (See. Told ya.) Of course that’s when the power immediately shifts to the author, because when we offer a contract now we’re the ones waiting for a decision. And a decision could either be yes . . . or no. By this point we’ve already spent at the very least three months with a manuscript, following an MC, despising the antagonist, and getting lost in the adventure. So a negative decision truly does devastate our team, but, just like having to reject manuscripts, rejecting a contract is just part of the publishing game. You win some, you lose some. Either way, being able to send an author the energetic “YES! Let’s do this!” email is always exciting :)
What kind of manuscripts do you enjoy and are looking for, and how can an author submit to you?
I’ve begun to write more NA fiction, but I enjoy reading both YA and NA. My preferred genres, simply because there what I have the most experience in, are paranormal and urban fantasy. If you’re going to break away from those genres in particular, I love a good comedy/satire, but straight contemp fiction doesn’t often do it for me. Obviously there are exceptions. With me, when I read I want to be transported to a world or situation that is far from something we could experience in reality, and I believe that’s why I gravitate toward the more fantastical genres.
Last question; If you were suddenly struck by lightning/bitten by something/exposed to toxic waste, and ended up with superpowers, what would it be and why?

It’s funny, I’ve actually been thinking a little bit about this. I think I’d chose the superpower to “refill” things. At first glance it doesn’t seem like much, but when you really think about it you’ll realize how it’s really the ultimate super power. Bank account empty? Refill it. Fridge empty? Refill it. Someone annoying you on the bus? Refill their bladder! (OK, that one’s a bit cruel . . . )Beyond that, if I were to pick from a real superpower (and by “real,” I base all my super power info on the X-Men world--obviously), my two favorites have always been Wolverine (instant regeneration), or Nightcrawler (transportation . . . but sans blue paint). As a kid I loved Storm, and the ability to control weather, but as I got older I realized, while the weather sometimes sucks, there are much cooler abilities to possess.And, if you’re wondering, I do have a favorite X-Men quote, and it’s super cheesy but I’m going to share it anyway:
“Do you know what happens to a frog that gets struck by lightning? The very same thing that happens to everything else. (Storm--X-Men)”

REUTS Author Interview: Priya Kanaparti

Priya Kanaparti lives in the beautiful city of Boise, ID.  Unlike what most believe about Idaho, it’s more than a sack full of potatoes. When she’s not writing, you’ll catch Priya reading YA and NA books, mostly romance, and enjoying time with her family. She is a proud CW TV addict.
The Dracian Legacy is her first YA paranormal romance series. She strongly believes that true love conquers all and that’s a common theme you’ll find within her novels.
She also write Mature YA and New Adult romance under the name Clara Stone. She is published through Reuts Publications.
Priya would love to hear from you. If you have questions about any of her books, would like to set up an interview, book signing, etc, please use one of the contact methods listed below. Please check out each book/series pages for more information about each title.
If you are requesting an ARC for Dracian Series, please contact the publisher of that book.
Get in Touch with Author Priya Kanaparti!
Email:
Author Priya Kanaparti: pkanaparti2004@gmail.comSnail Mail:
P.O Box 2652
Eagle, ID 83616Connect on Social Media with Author Priya Kanaparti: [image error] [image error] [image error] [image error] [image error] Newsletter Subscription



1.     Tell us how you came to be an Author with REUTS.a.      I searched and rejected multiple small press publishers while I looked for a home for my Dracian Series. After nearly a year of searching I came across REUTS and submitted my published work. Through multiple communication between all the key people, I knew REUTS was the place for my baby. I must say, the person that had me excited was Kisa Whipkey – the Editorial Director 2.     What do you enjoy most about being a REUTS Author?a.      The flexibility and the ability to provide my two cents from editing to marketing of my book.3.     What have your experiences been like working toward being published?a.      It wasn’t much different from what I had done as a self-pub author. The big difference is I had a team of people working to bring my book to life. I didn’t have to feel the pressure of making the calls all by myself. I had a support group that weighed in their opinion .4.     What would you have done differently?a.      If had known the things I know today, I probably would have written ALL 3 books in the series prior to having the initial book J.5.     How has your book been marketed?a.      Since my first book was a re-release, much marketing wasn’t done. It was however introduced back into market via giveaway and blog tour. For book 2, we have some huge plans! rubs hands I’m kinda excited about it 6.     Any advice on how to better market a book?a.      Truthfully, I don’t think there’s a magic potion for marketing, but a goal. Goal to reach as many potential readers as possible and building hype for the book, before, and after the book release. Of course that’s apart from writing a KILLER story with characters full of life.7.     Last question; If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go, when would it be, and what would you be wearing?a.      Oh, gosh.  I’ve always wanted to go to London. I think, once I go there, maybe I’ll stop saying “I want to go to London.” It’s one of those things where I’m obsessed with it, because I haven’t been there yet. And I want to bath in that English accent world for several days… *swoon*Katie – THANK YOU sooo much for having me on your blog. It was a pleasure!