Michael Linen's Blog, page 6
July 30, 2014
WHO IS MICHAEL LINEN???
A few readers of my books that I met today said that they wanted me to post on my blog just who Michael Linen is. So... Here it goes. :)
My name is Michael, but those who know me affectionately call me "Smoove". I was born in New York City, and mainly grew up in the Bronx. Throughout my school years, all of my English teachers were very impressed with my writing skills and abilities. They would always tell me that I should pursue a career in writing. They said that I had a unique way of touching many feelings and emotions thru my writing. Of course, I tried to pursue everything but that. Unfortunately, it took going thru a bout with cancer, and having all of my friends, and the woman who claimed to have loved me at that time turn their backs on me during that very difficult period in my life, did I need a outlet to channel the frustration, anger, and disappointment that I felt. For me, it has always been thru what I know best. Writing!!! Like a recording artist in front of a microphone, or a actor in front of the cameras. When I'm writing, that becomes my stage and my platform to create and perform.
As to what to expect from me in my future writings... When it comes to relationship, love, making love, and sex, there's a intense passion and fire that burns inside of me. So, sometimes I'm in the mood for writing something intense, romantic, and loving. That will be in the form of a romantic novel or love story. But, I also have a fiery side to me, and sometimes am in the mood for writing something daring, steamy, spicy, scandalous, and sexually explicit. For those who can handle it, I have created my urban erotic stories under the series titled "A Quietstorm Erotic Tale". The first release from that series titled "A Quietstorm Erotic Tale: My Best Friend Aaliyah" is available now on eBook. [WARNING: While my erotic stories will be compelling, they will also be sexually explicit.]
If I had to sum up myself in just a few sentences, I would say that I'm a pretty cool person to know. Always calm, cool, collected, peaceful, and love to have fun. Although I'm one who values my privacy, I am a people's person. I love diversity. I love meeting people from all walks of life. I'm a person who knows what he wants, and does not settle for less. If someone cannot accept me for me, than it truly is their lost. And when it comes to relationships, friendships, or business relations, there has to be what I call T. L. R. If there is no TRUST, LOYALTY, and RESPECT... Then we have absolutely nothing to talk about. I'm one of the kindest person you could ever meet. But words to the wise... Never, ever mistake my kindness for weakness, because you will find out that there definitely can be another side. But as long as you are cool with me, then I'm cool with you!!!
Help support this author, and spread the word about my books to your friends and family.
PEACE, LOVE & RESPECT!!!
My name is Michael, but those who know me affectionately call me "Smoove". I was born in New York City, and mainly grew up in the Bronx. Throughout my school years, all of my English teachers were very impressed with my writing skills and abilities. They would always tell me that I should pursue a career in writing. They said that I had a unique way of touching many feelings and emotions thru my writing. Of course, I tried to pursue everything but that. Unfortunately, it took going thru a bout with cancer, and having all of my friends, and the woman who claimed to have loved me at that time turn their backs on me during that very difficult period in my life, did I need a outlet to channel the frustration, anger, and disappointment that I felt. For me, it has always been thru what I know best. Writing!!! Like a recording artist in front of a microphone, or a actor in front of the cameras. When I'm writing, that becomes my stage and my platform to create and perform.
As to what to expect from me in my future writings... When it comes to relationship, love, making love, and sex, there's a intense passion and fire that burns inside of me. So, sometimes I'm in the mood for writing something intense, romantic, and loving. That will be in the form of a romantic novel or love story. But, I also have a fiery side to me, and sometimes am in the mood for writing something daring, steamy, spicy, scandalous, and sexually explicit. For those who can handle it, I have created my urban erotic stories under the series titled "A Quietstorm Erotic Tale". The first release from that series titled "A Quietstorm Erotic Tale: My Best Friend Aaliyah" is available now on eBook. [WARNING: While my erotic stories will be compelling, they will also be sexually explicit.]
If I had to sum up myself in just a few sentences, I would say that I'm a pretty cool person to know. Always calm, cool, collected, peaceful, and love to have fun. Although I'm one who values my privacy, I am a people's person. I love diversity. I love meeting people from all walks of life. I'm a person who knows what he wants, and does not settle for less. If someone cannot accept me for me, than it truly is their lost. And when it comes to relationships, friendships, or business relations, there has to be what I call T. L. R. If there is no TRUST, LOYALTY, and RESPECT... Then we have absolutely nothing to talk about. I'm one of the kindest person you could ever meet. But words to the wise... Never, ever mistake my kindness for weakness, because you will find out that there definitely can be another side. But as long as you are cool with me, then I'm cool with you!!!
Help support this author, and spread the word about my books to your friends and family.
PEACE, LOVE & RESPECT!!!
July 27, 2014
Yes... Even On A Sunday!!!
Its a Sunday morning, but there's no rest for the weary. I got up 4 a.m. sharp, said a Sunday morning prayer, and asked God to please get me thru this day. Then it was back on the grind promoting these books of mine. Yup... Even on a Sunday. Hey... I have to do what I have to do. For all that I have been put thru in the last thirteen years, nothing has just been given to me. Thru sweat, pain, crazy hard work, and even some tears, this was all well earned!!!
July 26, 2014
Preparing To Go Back To Work!!!
After only a couple of weeks after writing my third book, soon it will be back to work on my next novel. Some ask me "Why do you write so much?" The answer is simple. Because that's what I do!!! That's what I love to do. Yes, I could use a little longer period of rest... But I've committed myself to writing three full length novels within the next six months. But I don't mind it, because the one dream that I have always had was to get paid for something that I actually love doing. Kind of like playing basketball. So many of us love playing it as a hobby, but the NBA players are getting paid to play their hobby. That's how I view writing. Its something that I probably would do for free, but to get paid for doing it makes it that much sweeter. :)
July 24, 2014
In Need Of A Vacation And Some Serious Rest!!!
WOW!!! After writing three full books in six months, which included writing it, editing it, publishing it, and promoting it myself, I am in need of some serious rest and a vacation. But that probably won't happen until sometime next year. Because to top all of that off, not only do I have to prepare "Her Obsession" 2 & 3 for release on Valentine's Day of 2015, but I also have to prepare the second book from my erotic series titled "A Quietstorm Erotic Tale". So I have to get out another three books in six months. And these aren't any of those 20 to 30 pages books that you see so much of online today. These are full books, 250 to 300+ pages. But I love it. I love what I'm doing, because its what I do, and what I know best. Writing!!!
My Book "Her Obsession: Tina's Wrath" published!!!
After working very hard on this one, I finally put the finishing touches on my latest book "Her Obsession: Tina's Wrath". I had such a good time writing it, that I decided to turn it into a three part mini-series. With parts two and three both to be released on Valentine's Day of 2015.
Another author asked me what influenced me to write this story. Although its a little different because the two main characters were never in a relationship, its the situation that almost every woman and man will probably find ourselves in at least once in our life time. The relationship between you and your ex is over, and everyone seems to realize it but them. Then they develop a obsession for you.
Like I said, I enjoyed writing this story and will be releasing "Her Obsession" 2 & 3 both on the same day, Valentine's Day of 2015. So be sure to be on the lookout for that.
Another author asked me what influenced me to write this story. Although its a little different because the two main characters were never in a relationship, its the situation that almost every woman and man will probably find ourselves in at least once in our life time. The relationship between you and your ex is over, and everyone seems to realize it but them. Then they develop a obsession for you.
Like I said, I enjoyed writing this story and will be releasing "Her Obsession" 2 & 3 both on the same day, Valentine's Day of 2015. So be sure to be on the lookout for that.
"Her Obsession: Tina's Wrath" Author's Review.
Her Obsession: Tina's Wrath by Michael LinenMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
GREAT READ!!! This is a urban romantic-thriller about a man who separates from his wife and meets a very attractive young woman. She wows him with her beauty, her sexiness, her body, and her exotic look. He's momentarily captured in her web of seduction. But the love that he has for his wife wins out over the young woman's allure. He returns to his wife and his marriage. But the young woman has developed a obsession for him. But when he doesn't share her feelings, she releases her wrath upon him.
View all my reviews
The Feeling Of Being A Published Writer
Some people have asked me what does it feel like being a published writer? You have a sense of accomplishment. Especially when you see your book cover on all of the major online book retailers' sites, and you see your name printed on it. And when you hear people start referring to you as author, its a unbelievable feeling. I remember the first time that someone called me Author Michael Linen. I just got a tingling feeling inside, and just could not stop smiling.
I mean, I was at this writing thing for a very long time. About 12 years to be exact. I've gone thru the sometimes in-just criticism of some literary agents and agencies, and I've gone thru the sometimes obvious racial overtones of a rejection. I've had to deal with the very subjective, and what seems to be very outdated standards that so many traditional literary agents, agencies, and even some publishers seem to live and die by. Just refusing to see that we live in a very different world today. A world in which so many people have open minds, and want to read and experience new and different kinds of reading. But thru it all, it feels so good to now be a published author. It feels so good to hear someone tell me how much they love my book. How much they love what I have created. There's no real way that I can describe it. You would just have to feel it for yourself. I will say this though... I feel like I'm in heaven!!!
I mean, I was at this writing thing for a very long time. About 12 years to be exact. I've gone thru the sometimes in-just criticism of some literary agents and agencies, and I've gone thru the sometimes obvious racial overtones of a rejection. I've had to deal with the very subjective, and what seems to be very outdated standards that so many traditional literary agents, agencies, and even some publishers seem to live and die by. Just refusing to see that we live in a very different world today. A world in which so many people have open minds, and want to read and experience new and different kinds of reading. But thru it all, it feels so good to now be a published author. It feels so good to hear someone tell me how much they love my book. How much they love what I have created. There's no real way that I can describe it. You would just have to feel it for yourself. I will say this though... I feel like I'm in heaven!!!
June 17, 2014
Back, hard at work!!!
After taking a couple of weeks off, its back to work. Have to get the next story down on paper before it escapes my mind. Its time again for those writing thru the night, having my sleep pattern totally thrown off, and forgetting to eat because I'm so wrapped up in my writing. :) Yes, I have a whole routine that I go thru during my writing process. But I enjoy it!!! I enjoy the challenge of writing the best story that I can. I don't put pressure on myself like some writer, by trying to outdo my last book. That's just too much pressure that you're placing on yourself. I think you should just try to write the best story that you can each time you write.
June 3, 2014
That Old, Outdated Dinosaurs Vs. The New Kids On The Block
When you look at Traditional publishing compared to Indie publishing, it reminds me of, The Old and Outdated Dinosaurs vs. The New Kids On The Block. To me, there's just such a huge difference in comparison. Traditional publishing, being the old dinosaurs just have not kept up with the times. While Indie publishing has grown with the time and the world of today.
While I think a little professional competition isn't going to hurt anyone... I'm almost amazed at the dislike, and almost hatred that Traditional publishers, literary agents, and even some writers who choose to follow the traditional path seem to have towards Indie authors, publishers, and publishing. I mean, Traditional publishers, agents, and writers seem to turn their noses up towards Indie writers and publishing. There's just no respect there. But in my opinion, one day, they're going to have no choice but to give Indie authors and publishing its due respect.
Being a Indie author/publisher myself, I have no problem with the Traditional way or path. But its like a dinosaur. The ways, path, and standards that they seem to follow, stand by, and live by is old, stale, and outdated. We live in a ever changing and evolving world, and the traditional way just has not kept up with the times. People are different. Society is different. A greater portion of society wants to open its mind, expand its horizon, and explore other areas, subjects, and ideals that are different, and unique from the norm. I think Indie authors and publishing offers that. We don't follow the traditional path, which seems to be the same old thing over and over. We're not bound by the restraints that traditional publishers seems to put on its authors. We're not controlled or outrageously censored in what we can say or do. Indie writers have what most writers want. Creative freedom!!! Indie writers and publishers take chances. We push the envelop into many different subject matters, areas, and directions that have not yet been explored. Of course, as long as its within reason, and nothing that is too outrageous, or outlandish.
I just think that many Traditional publishers and literary agents are out of touch, and don't know themselves what the public wants. Proof, we've seen authors push their manuscripts for years to many literary agents, publishers, and publishing houses, only to be rejected over and over. Being told that their manuscript isn't what they're looking for, or that it just won't sell. Then that very same author will self-published the book himself or herself, and not only does the public absolutely love it, but it hits the best-sellers lists, and sells thousands of copies of their books.
Even with that famous word today that is called "Trending". While I understand it as it relates to trending on Twitter, Facebook, and other social media... I don't necessary buy into it as it relates to the literary field. I mean, of course a particular genre can become hot at a particular time. But the truth to the matter is that a great author and writer can get the public to read whatever they write, regardless of what the so-called "Trending" is. A great writer doesn't have to follow what the trend is. Sometimes he or she can choose to be different, unique, and follow their own path. A great writer believe in his or her abilities, and what they choose to write, rather than what's so-called "Trending".
Its been 12 years since I started my journey to become a published author. Eleven years and ten months of that time was spent trying to do it the traditional way. I can remember the frustrations and headaches of it like it was yesterday. So often it felt like I was being given the run around. Agents would tell me to change the theme, the subject, the genre, the racial make-up of the characters, the plot, or the ending of my manuscript, only to reject it anyway. Or they would absolutely love the query and partial, but as soon as they got the entire manuscript, and saw what the racial make-up of the characters were... All of a sudden, it wasn't what they were looking for. If they were so intrigued by it in the first place, why should something like the racial make-up matter? If the story is good, its good no matter what the make-up of it is. But the one that got me the most was when I was asked to send in the first 5 to 10 pages of my manuscript. How the hell can anyone truly evaluate a 300 pages manuscript based upon the first 5 to 10 pages? I just got sick and tired of the b.s., and the incredible amount of time that it all consumed. I mean, when I submitted queries or partials, I would be told that they would get back to me in six to eight weeks. And that of course was just to reject me. Then I discovered Indie publishing.
Within two months of joining the ever growing Indie authors/publishing community, I have published two books, which are now on sale at major websites like Barnes & Noble, itunes/apple, and more. And I'm now working on my third. Despite the dislike, and hatred that Traditional publishers, and some Traditional authors seem to have towards Indie authors and publishing... Get over it!!! Indie authors and publishing is not going anywhere. Its a new direction. And judging from how some Traditional writers seem to be converting, and joining the ever growing world of Indie authors and publishing, they themselves realize the future impact that the Indie community will have on the literary world. No... Traditional publishers and authors don't have to like us. But there should be the professionalism of respect shown towards a fellow publisher or writer, regardless of whether he or she is Traditional or Indie.
I read a very interesting article about the rise of the Indie author on the Authors Weekly website if you care to read it yourself. You can find it here:
http://www.authorsweekly.com/blog/Aut...
While I think a little professional competition isn't going to hurt anyone... I'm almost amazed at the dislike, and almost hatred that Traditional publishers, literary agents, and even some writers who choose to follow the traditional path seem to have towards Indie authors, publishers, and publishing. I mean, Traditional publishers, agents, and writers seem to turn their noses up towards Indie writers and publishing. There's just no respect there. But in my opinion, one day, they're going to have no choice but to give Indie authors and publishing its due respect.
Being a Indie author/publisher myself, I have no problem with the Traditional way or path. But its like a dinosaur. The ways, path, and standards that they seem to follow, stand by, and live by is old, stale, and outdated. We live in a ever changing and evolving world, and the traditional way just has not kept up with the times. People are different. Society is different. A greater portion of society wants to open its mind, expand its horizon, and explore other areas, subjects, and ideals that are different, and unique from the norm. I think Indie authors and publishing offers that. We don't follow the traditional path, which seems to be the same old thing over and over. We're not bound by the restraints that traditional publishers seems to put on its authors. We're not controlled or outrageously censored in what we can say or do. Indie writers have what most writers want. Creative freedom!!! Indie writers and publishers take chances. We push the envelop into many different subject matters, areas, and directions that have not yet been explored. Of course, as long as its within reason, and nothing that is too outrageous, or outlandish.
I just think that many Traditional publishers and literary agents are out of touch, and don't know themselves what the public wants. Proof, we've seen authors push their manuscripts for years to many literary agents, publishers, and publishing houses, only to be rejected over and over. Being told that their manuscript isn't what they're looking for, or that it just won't sell. Then that very same author will self-published the book himself or herself, and not only does the public absolutely love it, but it hits the best-sellers lists, and sells thousands of copies of their books.
Even with that famous word today that is called "Trending". While I understand it as it relates to trending on Twitter, Facebook, and other social media... I don't necessary buy into it as it relates to the literary field. I mean, of course a particular genre can become hot at a particular time. But the truth to the matter is that a great author and writer can get the public to read whatever they write, regardless of what the so-called "Trending" is. A great writer doesn't have to follow what the trend is. Sometimes he or she can choose to be different, unique, and follow their own path. A great writer believe in his or her abilities, and what they choose to write, rather than what's so-called "Trending".
Its been 12 years since I started my journey to become a published author. Eleven years and ten months of that time was spent trying to do it the traditional way. I can remember the frustrations and headaches of it like it was yesterday. So often it felt like I was being given the run around. Agents would tell me to change the theme, the subject, the genre, the racial make-up of the characters, the plot, or the ending of my manuscript, only to reject it anyway. Or they would absolutely love the query and partial, but as soon as they got the entire manuscript, and saw what the racial make-up of the characters were... All of a sudden, it wasn't what they were looking for. If they were so intrigued by it in the first place, why should something like the racial make-up matter? If the story is good, its good no matter what the make-up of it is. But the one that got me the most was when I was asked to send in the first 5 to 10 pages of my manuscript. How the hell can anyone truly evaluate a 300 pages manuscript based upon the first 5 to 10 pages? I just got sick and tired of the b.s., and the incredible amount of time that it all consumed. I mean, when I submitted queries or partials, I would be told that they would get back to me in six to eight weeks. And that of course was just to reject me. Then I discovered Indie publishing.
Within two months of joining the ever growing Indie authors/publishing community, I have published two books, which are now on sale at major websites like Barnes & Noble, itunes/apple, and more. And I'm now working on my third. Despite the dislike, and hatred that Traditional publishers, and some Traditional authors seem to have towards Indie authors and publishing... Get over it!!! Indie authors and publishing is not going anywhere. Its a new direction. And judging from how some Traditional writers seem to be converting, and joining the ever growing world of Indie authors and publishing, they themselves realize the future impact that the Indie community will have on the literary world. No... Traditional publishers and authors don't have to like us. But there should be the professionalism of respect shown towards a fellow publisher or writer, regardless of whether he or she is Traditional or Indie.
I read a very interesting article about the rise of the Indie author on the Authors Weekly website if you care to read it yourself. You can find it here:
http://www.authorsweekly.com/blog/Aut...
May 22, 2014
"A Quietstorm Erotic Tale: My Best Friend Aaliyah" Author's Review.
A Quietstorm Erotic Tale: My Best Friend Aaliyah by Michael LinenAuthor's rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the first book in my urban erotic series titled "A Quietstorm Erotic Tale". This is a story about the CEO of a production company who becomes frustrated with his affectionless, and passionless wife. After several sexual encounters, he finally finds the love, affection, and sexual satisfaction that he has been seeking in his best friend Aaliyah. But, he also finds out that he and his best friend has been part of a game of deceit and deception, orchestrated by his wife.
[WARNING] While very intense and compelling, this book is erotica, so it is sexually explicit in content. It's erotica as I see it thru my eyes. This book was written and intended for a mature adult audience, 18 years old and older, who enjoy reading a more explicit level of adult reading material. It is "NOT INTENDED" for those who find this type of sexully explicit adult reading material offensive!!!
View all my reviews
