Dion E. Cheese's Blog, page 4
March 6, 2014
Crazy Ass Video of The Week: The Beer Gut
I chose this Crazy Ass Video of the Week because it represents part of my life experience. Being a federal convict kidnapped in the good ole Bluegrass state of Kentucky. While serving my time in Lexington (6yrs. plus at this facility) I would go to work everyday in the Mid-Atlantic Dental Lab. I worked as a dental technician along with 8 other of my fellow prisoners. While I worked I was subjected to the tortuous sounds of country music radio which didn’t blend well with my ears being that I was a Jerzy Boy.
To make a long story short if you ever lived in Kentucky you know that there is no way avoiding country music. Everyday a talented friend of mine named steve Rapier would play his guitar or write his own lyrics during our down time. However on one particular day he was singing a song called She’s Rockin the Beer Gut sung by a country group called Trailer Choir, and at the time I thought WTF! Who in the hell would write such a crazy ass song. It was silly, I would have to later admit. But it wasn’t relevant until after I started helping a friend of mine do some private security gigs at a few local clubs in Easton, PA. And now I must concede that there are plenty of women here who are rockin the beer gut. So, in order to understand why I now appreciate this song to the fullest watch below.
Enjoy! Ciao Bitches!
The post Crazy Ass Video of The Week: The Beer Gut appeared first on Dion Cheese.
March 2, 2014
Street Certified Review: Zombies Vs Bikers
While viewing Twitter I ran across this horror-filled epic novel entitled Zombies vs Bikers written by a relatively little known author named Bart Gnarly. Being an avid fan of horror, and AMC’s The Walking Dead among many other zombie greats. I couldn’t turn down an opportunity to open and read this new tale of cannibalistic, flesh eating terror for all humankind.
Although very little is known, or can be found about Bart Gnarly. I cannot say the same for this Zombie Thriller which is based on a bad a** group consisting of ten bikers who are all that remains of a Motorcycle Club called the Dead Jesters led by a man named Bard who after witnessing the zombie apocalyptic birth of the zombie age after a strange green light that covers the earth changing the majority of the people into flesh eating monsters. The group is on a journey to get to a coastal town in Florida which provides salvation to all survivors supplying them with much needed food, shelter, medical care, and a way of escape.
Although the book is filled with marauders, good and bad people along with much of the basic happenings encompassed in most zombie tales. What makes Zombie vs Bikers a tale to remember is what it doesn’t have. There are no strange viruses that change people when they are bitten, no super heroes reminiscent to that of the Resident Evil series, no rules to having two or three women willing to share their protector; meaning no love quarrels among the needy or the greedy. On the contrary you will witness some of the vilest of human nature coming to the forefront such as a child molesting pedophile who swindles his way to becoming group leader of a caravan, and much worse.
The true twist however comes with the animated walking corpses who are greatly different from one another. As this tale unfolds you will ask yourself WTF? As you witness the new generation of zombies led by a highly intelligent corpse. He hunts down another group of Philadelphia bikers who have named him. Dr. Z. His horde, a group of highly intelligent creatures will leave you in awe. The group of survivors find themselves in a highly abnormal fight for their very existence as they are hunted down by these intelligent zombies who do a whole lot more than walk slowly.
The book had me wanting to find out a lot more about this horrid horde of rigormortic rotting group of new-age whoremongers who would not quit down to nothing short of losing their last limbs.Throughout the story I found myself asking, What would I do? Aside from the occasional riddled errors which fill the pages of most self-published, or small publishing houses, and an ending which left me without closure to what happened to many other survivors. I can easily give this story a 5 out of five stars for originality, and fun filled reading, along with many woe moments throughout. My recommendation is if you are a fan of The Walking Dead series you should definitely give Bart Gnarly’s Bikers vs Zombies a try. I’m sure that you will enjoy his work…dioncheese.com
If you would like to know more or purchase this new-age zombie thriller simply click the icon below. I am sure that you wont regret it.
This is a new age zombie thriller with one helluva twist.
The post Street Certified Review: Zombies Vs Bikers appeared first on Dion Cheese.
March 1, 2014
The Watch List: Up-n-Coming Authors: Kennedee Devoe
I had the privilege of speaking with this Amazon bestselling authoress Kennedee Devoe from LA firsthand over the telephone a few days ago. Surprisingly, she was very pleasant; a little too pleasant if you catch my drift. Being from NJ and having lived through the Biggie Smalls and Tupac beef, I had my gunz out and my cap turned backwards. I was going all the way in for the kill on this one.
During our little pow-wow what made me suspicious of her behavior aside from having a book entitled With Friends Like These Who Needs Enemies. I thought to myself, Who would not like her, or have an issue with such a lovely person? But then came the big Bonus question which I asked and she said, “No!” She claimed otherwise! See the bonus question down below in the Up-N-Coming Interview. I asked her about gang affiliations and a whole heap of other stuff but she remained adamant about not having anything to do with the notorious LA lifestyle. But then she mentioned the name CJ Mac who is a famous relative of hers. If you don’t know who that is I will explain. CJ Mac according to Wikipedia, is an early 90′s rapper who ”…directed a documentary called On the C-Walk . He is also known for working with Death Row Records in late 2000 with his song “I Ain’t Fuccin Wit’ Cha” (from Too Gangsta for Radio ), in which he insulted Dr. Dre for leaving the label and declaring gangsta rap dead, as well as artists Hittman, Eminem, Snoop Dogg and Aftermath Records. CJ Mac is also known for collaborating with artists C-Bo, Dresta, Poppa LQ, Mack 10,Techniec, Scarface and WC.[3]“
Being armed with this pertinent information after drilling her harder than a diamond tip bit boring through a 5 inch beam of steel. I managed to get the juice out of her faster than Speedy Gonzales on a midnight drug run from Veracruz, Mexico to downtown LA. She named dropped CJ and I knew I had her. “Guilty!” I yelled.
However, she remained as pleasant as can be. But, I know if I ever step foot in LA I’m a dead man even though she promised to entertain me with the best hospitality that LA has to Offer. I may be wrong but I will let you decide. Reader’s without further adieu I introduce you to authoress Kennedee Devoe. You have been warned!
UP-N-Coming Interview: Authoress Kennedee Devoe
Meet the most adorable face in urban lit. Yes, she has a smile like Kool- Aid but is a beast with the pen! So don’t let the beautiful smile fool you.
Q: How many books have you written?
A: Working on book 3, which will be out Summer 2015.
Q: What inspired you to write your latest book?
A: My real life experiences with friendships over the last 15-20 years. I knew that a lot of people could relate to one or more of my friendships in the book of having friends like these.
Q: How has being an author changed your life?
A: Wow! Yes, my life has definitely changed over the last year and a half. I travel more because I like to get out to meet my supporters. I’m more popular than when I was in high school lol All in all its been a pretty awesome experience.
Q: How often do you write?
A: I write when it hits me. Sometimes I will write for 3 days straight, and then not write for 3 weeks. So whenever the mood hits me.
Q: Have you ever encountered someone rude at a book signing, and if so, how did you handle the situation?
A: I have. Some readers don’t necessarily agree with my first book I often get backlash for that. I usually tell me people you don’t have to agree or disagree it’s already written. I moved on from that place in my life, and I am definitely not the same person I used to be.
Bonus question: Since you are from LA is it fair to say you can crip dance? LOL
A: You would think because my cousin is CJ Mac (Google of you don’t know the name) that I could do the C-Walk. Unfortunately, I don’t know, but I can do the hell out my famous two- step.
If you want to know more about Kennedee Devoe or purchase her book just continue down below.
Website: www.kdevoe.com
Hit Follow: www.instagram/itmustbekd
Add Me: www.facebook.com/KennedeeDevoe
Like the Page: www.facebook.com/TwoWrongsDontMakeARightItMakesUsEven
Follow Me: www.twitter.com/KennedeeDevoe
Bio: Kennedee Devoe is the Author of Amazons Bestseller, Two Wrongs Don’t Make a Right…It Makes Us Even, and With Friends Like These, Who Needs Enemies. Kennedee is the Publisher of Devoe Publications. She holds an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Studies, a Bachelors Degree in Business Management, and a Masters Degree in Human Services. She has worked for a variety of Parks and Recreations Departments, for-profits, and non-profits agencies. She currently works in the nonprofit sector as a Program Director. Kennedee hails from Carson, CA, and currently resides in Los Angeles.
The post The Watch List: Up-n-Coming Authors: Kennedee Devoe appeared first on Dion Cheese.
The Watch List: Up-n-Coming Authors :Kennedee Devoe
I had the privilege of speaking with this Amazon bestselling authoress Kennedee Devoe from LA firsthand over the telephone a few days ago. Surprisingly, she was very pleasant; a little too pleasant if you catch my drift. Being from NJ and having lived through the Biggie Smalls and Tupac beef, I had my gunz out and my cap turned backwards. I was going all the way in for the kill on this one.
During our little pow-wow what made me suspicious of her behavior aside from having a book entitled With Friends Like These Who Needs Enemies. I thought to myself, Who would not like her, or have an issue with such a lovely person? But then came the big Bonus question which I asked and she said, “No!” She claimed otherwise! See the bonus question down below in the Up-N-Coming Interview. I asked her about gang affiliations and a whole heap of other stuff but she remained adamant about not having anything to do with the notorious LA lifestyle. But then she mentioned the name CJ Mac who is a famous relative of hers. If you don’t know who that is I will explain. CJ Mac according to Wikipedia, is an early 90′s rapper who ”…directed a documentary called On the C-Walk . He is also known for working with Death Row Records in late 2000 with his song “I Ain’t Fuccin Wit’ Cha” (from Too Gangsta for Radio ), in which he insulted Dr. Dre for leaving the label and declaring gangsta rap dead, as well as artists Hittman, Eminem, Snoop Dogg and Aftermath Records. CJ Mac is also known for collaborating with artists C-Bo, Dresta, Poppa LQ, Mack 10,Techniec, Scarface and WC.[3]“
Being armed with this pertinent information after drilling her harder than a diamond tip bit boring through a 5 inch beam of steel. I managed to get the juice out of her faster than Speedy Gonzales on a midnight drug run from Veracruz, Mexico to downtown LA. She named dropped CJ and I knew I had her. “Guilty!” I yelled.
However, she remained as pleasant as can be. But, I know if I ever step foot in LA I’m a dead man even though she promised to entertain me with the best hospitality that LA has to Offer. I may be wrong but I will let you decide. Reader’s without further adieu I introduce you to authoress Kennedee Devoe. You have been warned!
UP-N-Coming Interview: Authoress Kennedee Devoe
Meet the most adorable face in urban lit. Yes, she has a smile like Kool- Aid but is a beast with the pen! So don’t let the beautiful smile fool you.
Q: How many books have you written?
A: Working on book 3, which will be out Summer 2015.
Q: What inspired you to write your latest book?
A: My real life experiences with friendships over the last 15-20 years. I knew that a lot of people could relate to one or more of my friendships in the book of having friends like these.
Q: How has being an author changed your life?
A: Wow! Yes, my life has definitely changed over the last year and a half. I travel more because I like to get out to meet my supporters. I’m more popular than when I was in high school lol All in all its been a pretty awesome experience.
Q: How often do you write?
A: I write when it hits me. Sometimes I will write for 3 days straight, and then not write for 3 weeks. So whenever the mood hits me.
Q: Have you ever encountered someone rude at a book signing, and if so, how did you handle the situation?
A: I have. Some readers don’t necessarily agree with my first book I often get backlash for that. I usually tell me people you don’t have to agree or disagree it’s already written. I moved on from that place in my life, and I am definitely not the same person I used to be.
Bonus question: Since you are from LA is it fair to say you can crip dance? LOL
A: You would think because my cousin is CJ Mac (Google of you don’t know the name) that I could do the C-Walk. Unfortunately, I don’t know, but I can do the hell out my famous two- step.
If you want to know more about Kennedee Devoe or purchase her book just continue down below.
Website: www.kdevoe.com
Hit Follow: www.instagram/itmustbekd
Add Me: www.facebook.com/KennedeeDevoe
Like the Page: www.facebook.com/TwoWrongsDontMakeARightItMakesUsEven
Follow Me: www.twitter.com/KennedeeDevoe
Bio: Kennedee Devoe is the Author of Amazons Bestseller, Two Wrongs Don’t Make a Right…It Makes Us Even, and With Friends Like These, Who Needs Enemies. Kennedee is the Publisher of Devoe Publications. She holds an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Studies, a Bachelors Degree in Business Management, and a Masters Degree in Human Services. She has worked for a variety of Parks and Recreations Departments, for-profits, and non-profits agencies. She currently works in the nonprofit sector as a Program Director. Kennedee hails from Carson, CA, and currently resides in Los Angeles.
The post The Watch List: Up-n-Coming Authors :Kennedee Devoe appeared first on Dion Cheese.
February 22, 2014
Champagne Divas Book Club: Urban Fiction and Cheese?
As you may note you do see wine in the picture above. Well, where’s the cheese you may note? The reason there is no cheese is because…I’m not in the picture. LOL!
Champagne Divas is a small but tight knit book club from the state of California who lives within the well-known city of Angels. Yes, it’s not every day that an author turns the tables and gets the privilege of interacting with a small, but beautiful group of intelligent and bright women. And on top of that, I had the honor of interviewing them. Let’s see how they feel being in the hot seat for a change.
The Champagne Divas book club based in Los Angeles, California, was started by Rhonda Mitchell in January 2011. This may appear quite odd for those of us not acquainted with the West Coast; being that most who are unfamiliar…, think of LA as the home of such nefarious group as the Bloods, Crips, Black P Stones, Mexican Mafia, homicidal maniacs, drive byes, Biggie and Tupac murders, wantonly over lavished lifestyles, and corrupt politicians from a naïve point of view.
However accurate the above may be true, LA has evolved into a place where one can enjoy a great “…Urban Fiction” novel as stated by the group’s founder. Growing up within a city infested with crime at every turn hasn’t caused Rhonda Mitchell from making a difference by embracing what others fear within the pages of urban novels often written by those who have experienced the “street life” firsthand. Rhonda understands the intellect of the genre that is often looked down upon by mainstream publishing circles while finding others who also enjoy the intellectual task of reading and discussing the inner workings of such stories. Urban stories, often written by imprisoned authors who are not afraid to expose the darker sides of life in tandem with its brightest moments.
Conversely, many to this day would find it hard to envision this 9 member, career oriented entourage becoming Ambassadors for the urban fiction genre having an afternoon lunch affairs that include as their name implies; Champagne, among many other fine dishes. 
Yet these vibrant ladies meet regularly, sitting around a table within an upbeat restaurant getting their intellectual groove on while sharing the best life has to offer; lifelong friendships. The members within this tight knit group ranging in age from their early 20’s to their 40’s.
When I asked them about their small numbers, a spokeswoman within the group said they are okay with being small compared to other book clubs which have much larger numbers. Speaking emphatically the diva stated, “Rhonda our group founder has an exuberant personality so she has no problem recruiting other ladies that love to read, socialize, dine out, travel and party!” So, when the time comes to expand we will easily do so.” Aside from her well-spoken answer every author should take note that no group is too small an audience for your book.
To sum things up the Champagne Divas state that they come together with genuine love for one another stating,
“We have common interests and friendships outside of the book club. We vote on the monthly reading selections and meet once a month to discuss what we’ve read.” Sometimes, their meetings get a little rambunctious and can go from being tepid to boiling hot within mere seconds as would be expected among friends I was told firsthand by Rhonda their group leader, “We also invite authors to our book club meetings… We all have personality and style.” Their future book club plans include, writing our own racy novel, supporting literacy programs in our area and traveling abroad.
Street Certified Interview: Champagne Torture
Q: First things first, where are you from, and how did you come up with the name Champagne Divas?
A: I’m from the Los Angeles area. How I came up with the name Champagne Divas is LA is known for their fabulous Sunday brunches and I thought it would be a great name for the group since we are divas reading while discussing books that we’ve read over champagne.
Q: What motivated you to start up a book club? And where do you all meet per say; online, etc.?
A: I was motivated to start a book club that was organized without all the personal drama. We meet on the second Sunday of every month at a restaurant that serves brunch with unlimited champagne/mimosas.
Q: Do you have chapters in other states, a group president or council?
A: We currently only have the Los Angeles chapter. We are hoping that the idea spreads like wild fire and will bring divas together that love champagne and reading.
Q: How does your group decide what books to read for the month? What genres do you prefer the most?
A: We normally vote on a book and if we can get an author to appear at our meetings we will select their book. We prefer the urban-fiction genre.
Q: Do most of your members give feedback in the form of reviews on other sites and if so, which ones do you prefer the most?
A: Yes, we give reviews on Amazon.com
Q: Back to the name hand, when I think of the name Champagne Divas I get an image of a group of beautiful women discussing books, plots, etc. over some cheese, and Chardonnay…LOL. But you tell me how does it really go down inside of the club?
A: Champagne is mandatory for every book club meeting and when the champagne starts flowing, the conversation turns outrageous and risqué in the blink of an eye. We all have personality and style.
Q: Have you any of your meetings ever turn into a heated debate over a particular character, plot, or message, whereas it almost got of hand?
A: Yes, our divas are very passionate. We have a group of 3 sisters that have totally different views where it will get out of hand with different views and opinions.
Q: How do you settle controversies within your group?
A: I as the founder/president will speak to the ladies individually after sending out a general email.
Q: Has your group met or has had the opportunity to interview any authors?
A: We invite authors to our book club meetings to bombard them with questions about their books and no question or subject is off limits.
Q: If you all had to pick any one author within the urban genre that you would love to have an audience with for one time only who would that author be?
A: My choice would be Terry McMillan. She has inspired me to read urban novel and has opened up the door for so many black authors.
Q: This is my last question of the day. As you know, I am an author as well but I’m not shocked that you didn’t pick me as your favorite author being that I’m new to the arena. But if I come through Cali-forn-I-A, will I be served wine and cheese as well. No pun intended? Can I get a back massage to go along with our gathering as well?
A: We have no problem hanging out with you at one of our posh LA spas for a back massage and will also treat you to a fabulous champagne brunch at one of our favorite local restaurants.
Thanks for your time and it’s a pleasure to have met you all. I hope to see you all on iurban.org our second site. And there you have it folks, I did it again. I managed to weasel my way into getting a back massage by 9 beautiful ladies along with a free meal at an upscale spa. Doesn’t that just make you angry fellas? Well, not being a hater you can get your chance to meet them by friending them on at Facebook https://www.facebook.com/champagne.divas.5 , and on http://iurban.org/index.php/community the new home of urban fiction.
Ciao bitches! Enjoy…dioncheese.com
The post Champagne Divas Book Club: Urban Fiction and Cheese? appeared first on Dion Cheese.
February 19, 2014
DISS-UNITY
Diss-Unity… You see it on tell-Lie-vision; you see it in the mean streetz of your neighborhood, on the corners, and maybe in your own household from time to time. But since the invention of web sites like Facebook, Twitter, and other sociable sites there seems to be an uprising of what I see as N***a moments.
How often do you click onto a web social site watching several pages waiting for someone to blast their so-called accepted friends? How often has someone extended you a hand only to turn around and stab you in the back moments later with an in-boxed comment? Things seem to have gotten so out of hand that there is now a web site strictly dedicated to and called Facebook Fights, http://fbfights.com/ where people can upload some of their worse argumentative moments.
One of the most saddened things I have seen is the diss-unity among many African American authors who seem to enjoy bashing
“Yeah, I showed that N***a some love out in the open but then I hit the dislike button on his A**!”
The truth of the matter seems to circumvent what is posted on many pages themselves or tweeted through the Twitter e-grapevine, by the mouths of others who claimed to have read and posted great remarks of at least thirty books or more per day. To be honest, and you know who you are. If you are posting thirty books a day, and saying they are all great. You are either the fastest reader of all time or simply put; a liar. Which one you are, I don’t know as it remains to be seen.
Furthermore, as a group or groups of authors we should strive to uplift one another. I’d rather hear the truth about my book be it bad or good from a fellow author or fan who can offer constructive critique instead of the usual “You think you’re hot! You ain’t reaching the top!” maniacal diatribe coming from the mouths of ignorant, backstabbing, crabs, bunched up like cockroaches trying to promote their book by demeaning others in the process.
If you are an author and your book is great, sooner or later you will get recognized. So what if you haven’t made the bestsellers list on Amazon yet. Don’t be discourage there are many more avenues to promote your book on other than Facebook. Surf around, research the web, create your own site, network, throw a party, and compliment another who may in return compliment you in your time of need. Do anything other than going on the downtrodden path of bad mouthing your competition whose book has no bearing on your own. Instead try doing the above and you might get somewhere, and I would suggest that you are careful on whom you fail to connect with when offered a hand because you might need them one day. Just keep in mind that Moses at one time was one lone man lost within the wilderness of the desert, and became the symbol of a nation. Remember when President Obama was told that he as a black man with very little time in the Senate, and the only black Senator as well, didn’t have a snowball chance in h*** of winning.
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“Yeah, I in-boxed my girl and was like F that chick!”
My last words to you all are, let’s drop the Diss and look forward to the Unity that we can embrace as a solid unit. Everyone knows by now that the number one spot can only be held by one at a time. Therefore, learn to be patient, help those who need it, support not just your own, and you just might make it. Wanting to see the next person not succeeding just because you are not does no one any good, including yourself. Take heed being a successful writer takes much more than publishing a book. You need to campaign, make yourself seen, and make the right sacrifices. Thousands of authors on one site yelling “Cop my book! It’s only 99 cents!…” will not get you there no matter how many members it has. With that said I hope we can put an end to the madness and move forward as a coalition.
Wishing you all the very best in your endeavors…Dion Cheese, Author
P.S. Let’s stop the haterism, it’s bad for everyone. Feel free to leave a comment.
If we all encourage one another we will all succeed in some degree.
The post DISS-UNITY appeared first on Dion Cheese.
February 17, 2014
I’ve got 99 cents, But My Book Ain’t One!
99 cents can be a big problem for those authors trying to make a dollar. Brother, can you spare a dime?
Jay z couldn’t have said it better, even though his problems were not associated with the 99 cent book fad: his book originally sold for far more. Nevertheless, the price point of 99 cents seems to be the norm for many new novels coming out within the urban fiction genre nowadays. If you ask me, it seems as though there is a fear desperation lingering in the air for authors, and publishers trying to sell a book.
Urban fiction is beginning to look a lot like the Chinavasion of the ghetto.
“Buy here! I sale book cheap just for you.” This seems to be the slogan for many authors breaking into the industry.
Although there is nothing wrong with having a Chinese special or two, there is something wrong with the 99 cent stories that are being presented to an ever-growing crowd of readers. Many are full of horrendous grammatical errors. Moreover, shiesty editors are getting more than their fair-share of income from naive — yet hopeful — authors who just want to get their stories published, and these selfsame editors can’t tell an ellipsis from a comma, and that is the least of it.
I know that when it comes to pricing a book, many authors and reader’s want to know how much should my eBook cost? That question is really an easy one to answer. The answer is a practical one: how much will the public pay, combined what is your book worth to you? What many readers fail to realize is that real authors (especially self-published ones with jobs, etc.) put a lot of time and effort into their stories. Many simply do not write quality stories, and therefore should charge less. others spend the time to do character development and/or have many plots and sub-plots intertwined. These are worth more. The old adage is true here: You get what you pay for, most of the time. Most authors don’t pop out novels like strung out crack whores having babies in your local hood asking their children, Who’s yo daddy? Meaning, the value of the book is linked to the skills of the author.
The above question is rightfully asked by potential readers who want to know whom they are spending their hard earned cash on? Yes, even if it’s 99 cents. Many die-hard fans of urban fiction are ecstatic about the 99 cent fad, while many authors shun the practice altogether.
According to the Huffington Post “Readers argue that a book which requires no paper and ink, no shipping and handling expenses, and no warehouse storage fees, should cost considerably less than its print counterpart. Their case is made more compelling thanks to the deep discounts Amazon and other online retailers offer on print books, which often result in the publisher’s e-version costing more than the book does when purchased from the retailer in print.
When authors publish their books electronically, most price their titles between $2.99 and $9.99 — primarily to take advantage of the 70% royalty rate currently being offered by Amazon for e-books in this price range which are made available for download to the Kindle.” You can read more on this rationale here.
On the other hand, many educated authors (self-published) and publishing houses know that selling a book for 99 cents boost up both slow sales and notoriety in an ever crowded market. However, neither would like it to remain that way. Then why do they sell books for 99 cents in the first place, you may ask?
Well let’s do the math, not too long ago the magic number was $2.99 for most indie authors. At 70% (Amazon). or 65% for Barnes & Noble royalty rates, most authors would stand to gain an average of $2.00 per book sold (we’re talking e-books here); not bad for a day’s take — I’m talking Kindle Direct and PubIt systems.
Now this is in comparison to the 35% royalty rate received for books selling for under the $2.99 price, which is definitely a steep drop — but more than the standard 25% royalty rate offered by most publishers — is really equals to about 17.5% of the net rate of the price your book is sold for. Simply put, your dollars just turned into pennies. But hold on! The story does not end here!
In scenario two, the scene plays out quite differently for logic would dictate that most authors and/or publishers would opt out of the 70%. Quite truthfully, they did. But then some sloth came along thinking, Hell, my book isn’t really worth a dime, and neither am I selling much at $2.99, so I’m gonna start selling my book for 99 cents.
BLAM! It was that logical desperation that made several authors millionaires overnight, even, if their books were not so great. And everyone knows it’s just a matter of time before everyone else jumps on the bandwagon; Monkey see, monkey do, and the rest is history. Get ready for the 88 cent books, coming soon.
Sadly today, many urban fiction writers who actually have great books find themselves having to short-change their hard efforts just to compete in the market place. Therefore I will end this article with the question:
Does the 99 cent book affect your buying decision when it comes to buying a book? Feel free to leave your comments here.
Ciao bitches!
The post I’ve got 99 cents, But My Book Ain’t One! appeared first on Dion Cheese.
February 16, 2014
Bulls**t Reviews
Did you just spend your hard earned money on that bulls**t review?
“Your book is the S**t!”
Not being one to toss names, a friend and I were having a discussion over authors literally being ganked; robbed for their hard earned dollars by unscrupulous, shady promoters, who simply promise to deliver a sensational service, and fail to deliver.
Yes, it seems nowadays that everyone behind a keyboard pretends to be a publisher, author, and promoter while selling bulls**t to the masses. As an author, I understand that getting the right publicity means everything. You put in our hard work thinking that everyone is going to love your novel. You step on stage, the lights come on, you step out looking forward to a standing ovation, but to your surprise, all you hear are the crickets chirping in the background.
Disappointed, you reach out to anyone you can think of asking for help only to find out that that review you paid for did not
While Some authors may have money to wipe their asses with. Most of us don’t.
increase your book sales by one book. Yet, you continue to dump your money down the toilet out of desperation in hopes that no one sees your sales ranking falling like a two ton, granite boulder within the bowels of the Atlantic Ocean.
Sadly enough, this scenario plays out every day across the web when in fact, it shouldn’t be that way. I’ve looked on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Sony Reader, Google Play, Books- A- Million, and elsewhere. Not many today show their credentials online, or have a proven track record to follow what they shout out about. The truth is great books take time to read, and write about when posting a review. Reviews (Paid) should contain critical factors, be original, and compelling to potential buyers. Many books often contain snippets of reviews issued by the NY Times, Publishers Weekly, and so forth. These paid reviews are usually posted for all to see, and are a permanent gauge for others to get a glimpse of an author’s work before actually purchasing their books.
A professional review should contain the following incorporated within
1. Something about the author, where they are from, etc.
2. The book’s Title information.
3. It should be distinguished whether the book is a short story, novella, or novel.
4. The books general genre. Is it a romance, thriller, crime story, etc.
5. Part of the book synopsis.
6. Something about the main characters.
7. The plot of the story, or a summary.
8. It should entail any faults, or other lacking details that may or may not be missing.
9. The reviewer’s overall assessment.
10. A specified rating, usually 1 to 5 stars.
11. The author’s contact info, relative links, and where the book can be purchased.
The truth is, if you are getting anything less than that for your buck you are getting ganked; robbed. Don’t let yourself get treated like a whore in Bangkok working in a flea infested hotel.
See an example of an unpaid interview that nevertheless contains most of the elements mentioned above en-grafted within: http://dioncheese.com/love-honor-betray-street-certified-fiction/
Do your research, while three-lined reviews such as “A great book!” from someone you forked dollars to is pure bullsh**t. It may sooth the pouting soul, but it will not help potential buyers who are looking for a well-thought written review in helping them purchase your book. Especially, if you hope to sale your book for more than 99 cents. Why would someone want to sell something they put their heart and soul into for 99 cents is beyond me? And beyond belief as well; while it may help as a boost in sales in the beginning in the long term it will become more detrimental to you and your flattening pockets than anything else.
If your dream is to become a 99 cent selling author then carry-on soldier. However, in my opinion if someone told me that they worked on their novel day in and day out, for an x amount of time, while investing several hundred to thousands of dollars on their novel just to make 99 cents I’d say, “Bulls**t!”. I’d personally rather deal with a snake-oil salesman or a blind man driving me behind the wheel of a car in downtown Los Angles during rush hour than to believe I am getting great stories from someone continually selling their books for 99 cents. Get real!
If you are someone looking to write professional reviews for others than my recommendation is to watch this (yes, it’s boring as hell, yet it is informative) video on how to write a book review.
I highly recommend this video for authors as well. Note that it gives you the difference between a book report, a summary, and a review. Enjoy!
Ciao bitches!
The post Bulls**t Reviews appeared first on Dion Cheese.
Paid Reviews: Are They Worth Your Money?
I’m speaking to you author to author? And asking you, Is your money going down the toilet?
Paid Editorial Reviews… Are Paid Reviews worth Your Hard Earned dollar? Are these paid reviews blowing your money in the wind? Most people balk at the thought, of such as I did when I released my first novel Who Am I? The Chronicles of Cain (many more are coming).
Having asked numerous friends of mine to, “Please, read my book”, and to “Help a brother out” seemed to fall on death ears for the most part. Having no reviews in the beginning, I felt distraught. Although many had shown me receipts of their purchases, along with many others who wanted a free copy just to have it sitting on their shelves; they are what I call a, Just in case my friend gets famous copy were of no help. For telling someone you have read their book in no way helps their case in becoming an established author.
Therefore, I began searching out the web looking for reviews from others; namely sites catering at least somewhat to the genre, UrbanFictionNews.com, Gorilla Convict.com, UBS, Streetfiction.org, Raw Sistaz, Streetwise Urban Fiction, only to either be ignored, or told they weren’t doing reviews (except for the first two). Some like Urban Fictive failed to follow through. I even thought of going to some of the mainstream reviewer sites like ALA, Kirkus Reviews, and Publisher’s Weekly who offered a host of amenities but their prices were very steep. However Kirkus will get one into the mainstream for albeit 400 dollars or so which will leave most struggling authors broke.
Out of desperation, I tried several avenues, such as social media which turned out to be a tiredness effort. Facebook, Twitter, etc. can be a vicious battleground when you have group pages full of promoters, etc. gathering like cockroaches at a barnyard feast within an uncontrolled traffic environment. Many readers including myself are often overwhelmed with the mass of information presented. Exhausted and frustrated I turned to my old manager, Bruce T. Dugan who offered me to build my own sites (dioncheese.com and iUrban.org). With that said, I chose to help others who may be in my situation by having these sites created. However, after doing this for several months now, I have an admirable respect for those whom I disdained in the beginning; paid reviewers.
I have come to learn that Paid-Review doesn’t necessarily mean that the person selling the services mean that their professional opinions are for sale. At least, not in my case, and any author who thinks that he/she isn’t going to get a bad review along the way is deceiving only themselves. The fear of a bad review is contagious when in truthfulness; it can and will often make one a better writer if the critique is done honestly, thoroughly, and constructively.
The advantages of a paid professional review is far more advantageous than just a personal review from a friend who may, or may
I can tell you right now as an author who reads online reviews that your money is going out the window…
not like your book, but, will be reluctant to tell you outright due to the fear of wrecking your relationship or hurting your feelings.
Most friends will not publicly state that, “My friend Author Jay Roderick III sucks! His book should be burned and pissed on!”
As an author who loves the art of storytelling, I believe a review should always be genuine no matter what avenues one has to take to procure one. One should always desire the truth be told about their book; especially from a professional who not only is willing to objectively critique an author’s work but also put their reputation on the line as well in addition to promoting the author’s novel through various media connections. Those who do so deserve to be rewarded for their services.
On the contrary, there is the Free-Review Avenue in which a person merely writes, “A great book indeed!” But I would be the first to say, “WTF! Does this mean?”
As a purchaser of Urban Fiction myself, I’d like to hear a lot more than just “A great book indeed! I gave it 5 stars.” Especially, when the review is coming from a stranger, whom I don’t know.
Many urban fiction authors often balk at the notion of having to pay someone to read and critique their work, but if one were to search the web. They would see many companies offer these services. Believe it or not, many big named authors, and publishing companies often pay for such services because they understand that opinions are a valuable asset. And, unless you already have a big name such as Tamika Newhouse, K’wan, or Whahida Clarke (who all continue to use review services)you will have to come out your pockets in order to move above the swarms of wiggling authors trying to get through the cracks.
Just remember one thing, if you are not willing to invest in yourself, why should others whom you desire to purchase your book? In life you get what you pay for.
Also, remember websites are never free. Someone has to pay for services at the end of the day, and while some authors believe they have the world’s bestseller on deck. Most won’t blink an eye if they never see you coming.
If you are an author contemplating a professional review compare prices, and such by looking at the links below… And remember, real reviews take time. They are well written, formulated, and informative about yourself the author, as well as your book. As an author, I understand that at the end of the day we all want our novels to be a number one bestseller. But the truth is writing a novel is only one of many steps towards success. I wish each and everyone of you the best and I’m right here if you need me. Feel free to contact me here at dioncheese.com, or just leave a comment and i’ll get back to you asap.
Enough said,
Ciao Bitches!
Kirkirkus::: http://goo.gl/eGWHko
Publisher’s Weekly::: http://goo.gl/qhPE8k
http://goo.gl/nVhPWl
The post Paid Reviews: Are They Worth Your Money? appeared first on Dion Cheese.
February 12, 2014
Shaving: When Fighting for Kisses Goes Wrong
In this Crazy Ass Video of the Week we learn why shaving was invented.The first use of a razor like tool came about sometime around 3000 B.C.E. during the copper era when Egyptian priests bought it into practice according to Wikipedia. Anywho, (no that is not a mistake, I meant anywho) I believe those ancient priests may have done so for religious purposes. However, I mean it in a different sense for the etymology of the word Re-means to go back, and ligion- means bound to. Such as in this case presented herein this video. The Egyptian priests weren’t getting any bootay (sex) because the kids were cock-blocking like they always do. Dads, even in ancient times were being denied the good lovin’ they so rightfully deserved after working all day in the hot sun, whether they were sweaty, funky, hairy, or whatever. But with Jr. around ancient momz were’t having it.
So one day a priest by the name of Copperhead Jankins invented the razor and said, “Look here fellas I have an idea that might get us back in the sack. It’s called the razor!” As you all know, Copperhead Jankins was ridiculed to the point where he got angry and shouted, “Okay, y’all see. Just you wait!”
Well, after about nine months or so, but prior to. Several accidents were taking place around the rock quarry. Many of Copperheads pals were missing work because they were slipping on a sticky, white, milky substance being left on the rocks by their fellow workers. Soon thereafter, an investigation was conducted. Everyone within the quarry had the substance somewhere within their workplace, except for, (you guessed it) Copperhead’s space. The men noticed that their wives were visiting Copperhead a lot as he worked deep into the night. The women claimed that, “They were only looking out for Copperhead’s well-being.”
Anyway, after nine months passed many of the men realized that their newborns looked an awful lot like Copperhead who had become the Chief of the Egyptian Priesthood. Many of his former friends had become enraged, and smart ones soon figured that since they couldn’t beat him they joined him, and thus shaving became a world wide practice.
Enjoy! Ciao Bitches!
The post Shaving: When Fighting for Kisses Goes Wrong appeared first on Dion Cheese.
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