T.R. Robinson's Blog, page 38

Bitter Memories by Sue Julsen - Book Review

Before I say anything else I wish to state I consider Sue Julsen to be a very brave woman. To put these experiences of hers into writing, let alone publishing them for all the world to see, must have taken considerable courage. But as I explain later I think we should all be very grateful she has done so. Since writing the book and initially concealing her and other’s identities ‘To protect the innocent and the guilty’ as Sue puts it, she has been brave enough to now reveal her identity by publishing photographs of herself; yet another courageous step.For those who do not know this book is an account of how the author was kidnapped by her own father, twice! Sue Julsen was two the first time but thankfully the family and authorities caught up with them very quickly and retrieved the little girl. Regrettably, her father had learnt from his first attempt and when he took her again, at the age of three, changed his tactics and got away from the area undetected. The book primarily deals with the awful and heartrending circumstances, situations and treatment the little chid was subjected to for the following seven years:Initially her father’s abuse consisted of virtually starving her though he ensured he had enough for himself.For several years they spent most of their life in the car driving from one state to another, presumably to avoid the authorities. He made her steal items he could sell.Within a short period the abuse took on a, how shall I put it, more traditional form, teaching her how to service and satisfy him. In time this abuse extended to other acts and allowing others to ‘use’ her. He often went off with women leaving his very young daughter alone in the car, without food or bathroom facilities.Occasionally they stayed with a variety of women but some of these also proved unpleasant and cruel.Events did change and initially promised a better life but more heartache and sadness were to follow.I must stress the following are my personal observations and opinions. I am not a qualified or trained critic but just a private individual. Reading is a very subjective experience although I do try to be as objective as possible.In the opening chapters Sue Julsen has done an excellent job of capturing how a two and three year old would talk and you do hear a child’s voice in your mind, despite the occasional adult word, which threw me at first. Nevertheless, in the subsequent chapters I found I had to constantly remind myself this was a very young child we were listening to because the language does become increasingly adult in style. In fairness I must point out the terms used were those she heard all the time and therefore it is understandable she uses them as to her it was ‘normal’ language. Nevertheless, it would have helped me if there was an occasional reminder of the girl’s age. After telling us how old she was when kidnapped her age is not mentioned again until nine. Of course there is also the fact, although not referred to, that many young people who experience such traumatic events, grow up very quickly and therefore will talk and consider in a far more mature manner than would be expected from their years. That has certainly been true of my own life.Another point which would have been, I was going to say good but that would be a wrong word, let us say useful, is to know what the father’s motivation was for kidnapping his daughter. Was it:to hurt his wife;to have someone to dominate, control, abuse;because he actually had a deep down, if warped, love for his daughter;because he was a paedophile?Perhaps it was a combination of all or some of the above.
In the epilogue there is a one-off slight suggestion that he did things to hurt his wife but the point is not clear. The author has written further upon the subject however, I have not read any of these subsequent books. The answers to my queries may be contained in them but I do not know and felt I had to simply give my observations for this book as a self-contained entity.
The author has had to write about horrific and unwonted sexual abuse of all kinds. Despite the warning "Adult language and graphic content" and "Not suitable for children", which it is not, I must commend her on how, thankfully without, in my opinion, being over explicit, she has conveyed her terrible experiences so that we are left in no doubt as to what was going on.
Sue, also suffered a multiple personality, presumably her minds way of dealing with the experiences, with not just one but four different characters. Without this defence mechanism she probably would not have remained sane if she survived at all. I congratulate her upon how she has conveyed these multiple personalities to us. It must have been very confusing for her as a child; adults suffering such find it difficult enough. When reading these passages I sometimes got a little confused with who was whom. For me this was a good point because it helped me understand and identify a little with what she was experiencing.
This is a very emotional read and in no way can it be described as pleasant. I find it hard to give a rating due to the content, which is emotive, and to the fact that reading for us non-professionals is always a very subjective experience. Nevertheless, largely taking into account the nature of this tale, I give it 4 stars ☼☼☼☼.
I recommend the book to everyone, including those who have suffered such abuse, because I consider it a subject we should all be aware of, as sad as it is, and those who identify with Sue’s experiences need to know they are not alone.
You may find more information about Sue Julsen and her books on her website.
The book is available from:
Amazon.com                    Amazon.co.uk

Linda Kovic-Skow - Interview

This is the first in what I hope will be a series of interviews with self-published authors. We are always learning no matter what stage of life we are in and, whether we realise it or not, have much we may share with and teach each other.


I would like to welcome Linda Kovic-Skow author of

French Illusions; and
French Illusions - Book 2 - Tours to Paris.
(You will find links to both books at the end of this interview.)




Please tell us a little about yourself.
Originally from Seattle, I currently winter in Gilbert, Arizona and spend summers on a boat in the Pacific Northwest Waters of Washington and British Columbia. I've been married for 30 years and I have two daughters. I am an enthusiastic traveler, but I also enjoy hiking, boating, reading, gardening and socializing with friends.
What first inspired you to write?
In 2007 after my husband and I dropped our youngest daughter off at college, I went through a sort of mid-life crisis. I missed being a mom and I wondered how I would fill the void. Something was missing—but what? This prompted me to review what I like to call my "mid-life list." This is similar to a "bucket list," but instead of exploring things to do before you die, you refocus yourself, while you’re still relatively young, and figure out the things you want to do in your fifties. My list was short.
-Learn to play the piano.-Travel to Africa to see the elephants.-Travel to Tahiti and see the island of Bora Bora. -Write a book.
At the time, I didn't own a piano and, with two daughters in college, I couldn't afford a trip to Africa or Tahiti, so I decided to hunt down my diary from my au pair adventure in France and compose a memoir. I’d told the story on numerous occasions, and the reaction from friends and family was often the same: You should write a book! Now, I finally had the time. It took me three years and countless hours to write the first book in the French Illusions Series, and a few more to write the second, but now I can scratch another item off my mid-life list.
In what genre(s) do you prefer to write?
Memoir, but I’d like to branch out and write a novel one day.
Are you working on another book?
There is nothing in the pipeline right now, but I have a few ideas for future books. Before my mother passed in August of 2014, I recorded four hours of her recounting her life story. She was born in the United States, but her parents took her back to Croatia as a young child, and the family endured enormous hardships during World War II. I think this would make a great historical novel. I’m also considering another memoir about my unusual childhood, something like “Growing up Linda.”
Your books have obviously required research. What do you consider the best resources?
I have to admit writing my memoir was a lot more complex than I initially imagined it would be. My diary offered a great outline of the events, but I had to create the dialog from memory and fill in hard-to-find data on the Loire Valley, the Loire River and the town of Tours from 1979. Internet searches produced most of the information and travel books supplied the rest.
Do you consider your book(s) convey messages to readers?
Set in the beautiful Loire Valley, my memoir will remind older readers what it was like to be young, adventurous and filled with dreams. Younger readers will relate to the difficult decisions women make as they transition into adulthood. My hope is that both of these groups will come away from my book realizing it's not too late to create your own memories. Go out and explore the world. Life's for living, after all.
What advice would you give to authors who are just starting out?
Hire a professional editor. I mean it. You can’t edit your own book. You won’t see the mistakes because you are too close to the writing. It will cost you a few hundred dollars for a line editor, a bit more if you need some in-depth editing, but it’s the best money you will ever spend. I cringe every time I read a negative review where the main complaint is editing. You want readers to judge you on the content of your story.
How do you go about marketing your books?
There are many good marketing websites available to authors, but Goodreads is at the top of my list. I have set up numerous giveaways and joined various Goodread’s groups to promote my memoir. Thousands of readers flock to this site daily and I believe it’s essential to have a strong presence there.
How important do you think reviews are? If you consider reviews important, how do you go about obtaining them for your books?
Reviews are essential, especially for self-published authors. There are hundreds of indie books coming on the market daily and reviews help readers feel confident about their choices. As an indie author, I worked hard to obtain my initial reviews. Just after I published my first book in the French Illusions Series, I participated in a blog tour. This resulted in some great reviews. I also sifted through dozens of Amazons top reviewers, emailed them and asked for honest reviews. Only a handful replied, but it was well worth the effort. Over time, as I promoted my books, offering them for sale on sites like BookBub, organic reviews slowly materialized.
While on the subject of reviews, I would add that no matter how well-edited and well-vetted your piece of work, some people will not like your story. There is nothing you can do about it. Once your book is published and you give away or sell a bunch of copies, you will eventually receive a negative review, and it will hurt your feelings. It never ceases to amaze me how people can be so cruel with reviews, but once you become an author, it’s a fact of life you must live with.
Please share with us links to where readers may obtain more information and insight into who you are. N.B. Linda kindly provided the list of links but the comments are my own.
Linda’s personal website: http://lindakovicskow.com/
Interesting blog in which Linda shares experiences, thoughts, recipes etc.: http://lindakovicskow.com/blog/
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/lindakovicskowfanpage
Twitter account: https://twitter.com/LindaKovicSkow
Goodreads account: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23368537-french-illusions
Amazon author page:  http://www.amazon.com/Linda-Kovic-Skow/e/B009PORWR6/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1
Thank you Linda for sharing your journey, inspiration and experiences with us.
Book links:
Click on the retail site of your choice to access the relevant book page.
Both are available in paperback and e-book formats.

 
                   Amazon.com
                   Amazon.co.uk
                   Amazon.fr
Click here if you would like to read my short review of French Illusions.






                    Amazon.com
                    Amazon.co.uk
                  Amazon.fr

Editing - Where to draw the line?

If you are anything like me, you find it difficult to know when to bring your editing and proofreading to an end. There always seems to be something you want to change or correct. Here are a few thoughts primarily based upon my own experiences.
http://trbooks7.blogspot.co.uk/2016/0...

Editing - Where to draw the line?

Editing your own work can be an endless task.  I think every writer would agree the best option is, after you have proofread your work a few times, to get others to read through it.  Initially friends and relatives, if you have them, could be asked for their observations.  Thereafter it is undoubtedly preferable to engage the services of a professional.  Having said that there are those like me who do not have anyone to ask nor the resources for a professional.  So what do we do?
My experience has now shown me there are two elements all writers, whether authoring a book or writing for a magazine, newspaper, blog etc., require: Perseverance and Patience.  Naturally determination also features.  Writing is not the quick fast occupation many would like it to be.
Once I have completed my second or third draft I find I grow impatient.  I want to see the end product there in front of me.  However, if we really want the best we can possibly achieve, editing and proofreading must be undertaken.  Now for us who will be the only ones to read our manuscripts before publication this is no easy task.  Even after the fourth or fifth read I tend to discover errors and new (better I hope) ways of presenting a situation.
So where do we draw the line?
I think most people would agree it is possible to go on ad infinitum with this task.  However, we have to draw the line somewhere.  Here is what I do:Silently read through at least three times.Change fonts and styles for each read.Read out loud; at least once.Using a different format have a final quiet read of the complete manuscript.In all honesty I am never satisfied with the end product, no matter what it is: book, painting, flower arrangement or whatever.  And in some ways I do not think we should be.
Nevertheless, once I have completed the process as described above I have to make myself stop.  By now I hope all obvious errors and plot anomalies have been spotted.  But as all writers agree it is rarely possible for us to pick up all our own mistakes.  We therefore have to accept, in the absence of a professional editor and proof-reader, some errors are likely to remain.  One consolation, if you can call it that, is some professionally published works still contain errors: even books published by one of the big four.


Conclusion
At the start of your writing accept you will have to be patient with yourself.  Also determine to persevere no matter what.
Control your impatience.  All of us long to see our books/articles/posts in print but we must not jump the gun.
Accept you will have to proofread and edit several times.  And then that you may not spot everything.
Do the best you can to ensure your work is as error free as possible.
Overall I find this process does achieve a reasonably good end product.
We should not forget there is the advantage, in self-publishing, if needed, that most of the systems we use allow for updates to be easily and readily made.  Therefore, if you do spot an error or two after publication, it is not the end of the world. 

Afraid to Write?

It is a fact; though many individuals know or at least feel they have a tale to tell the idea of actually writing it down scares them to death. Many consider they do not have the ability or expertise to formulate a book. In truth I believe many of us have more ability and talent than we credit ourselves for. Of course there may be a learning curve; grammar, punctuation, dialogue, formatting, presentation etc. We should also not forget some do not have available time for the writing process. Now for many, who decide to persevere despite their considered limitations, there is the option of hiring a ghost writer, something I am surprised we do not hear much about these days. I assume they still exist but, as far as I am able to see, are not as high profile as they used to be.
Sadly, many simply put aside the whole idea. I believe society is often the poorer for that; interesting stories are lost; advice and examples of how something may be dealt with or overcome is denied us; we are robed of the hope that may often be gained from someone else’s experience; we simply miss out on an entertaining story; etc. I am sure you can think of more. I am fully aware this has to be balanced by the fact that the advent of free self-publishing systems has resulted in some not so very good books being in the market. Nevertheless, I suspect there are many potential good ones we are missing out on.
 Is there an alternative for these people? Well, it so happens, if you have the means, there is. I was very interested when I recently heard about a company (Book in a Box) that helps people, like those described above, get their potential books published.
Their initial approach is, similar to how a ghost writer works I assume, to carry out a series of interviews with their client; fifteen hours over three to four months. These are then formulated into an initial manuscript for the client to consider. I was particularly interested in the fact that they try to retain the author’s own voice. This method certainly removes a lot of pressure from the author and enables them, by reviewing and discussing the manuscript, to convey exactly what they want. Sounds good.
Is this for everyone? The companies published information indicates they consider their service is particularly beneficial to those with ‘niche’ audiences, markets or businesses. They also suggest those who do not already have a large audience may benefit from their services e.g. anyone wishing to publish a memoire. In addition, those who have books a main-stream publisher would not consider may find them a viable option. I am also impressed by their up-front statement that their services may not be for everyone and that they consider each request to see if it will fit into their overall objectives. They also clearly state they must consider their own reputation.
As said I was initially attracted and interested. However, for me at least, there is one massive drawback: the cost. There are two packages available; $20.000 and $50,000. I must confess I had minor palpitations when I finally saw these figures. Of course there are those for whom such figures pose no problem and in fairness there are some testimonials on the site which explain who these people may be and why they opt for using the services offered. The packages are quite comprehensive as you may see from the following overviews.
$20,000 ($4,000 per month for five months):
·         Comprehensive interviews;·         Manuscript: draft and final;·         Proofreading;·         Experienced publishing expert;·         Cover design (working with a designer);·         Paperback and e-book;·         Marketing and promotion to become an Amazon Bestseller (no explanation of how this is achieved);·         Printing and distribution through all major retailers;·         Etc.
Please note this is an overview: there are some other elements included in the package that are not listed here.
There are also other elements you may have included but at a cost:
·         Hardcover including first one thousand copies: $7,500.·         Audiobook, production and distribution: $5,000.·         Memoir (as opposed to traditional non-fiction): $4,000. I have to say this rather shocked me. Quite honestly I do not see the justification for this additional fee.·         Multiple authors working on book (not an issue I think would affect many of us): $2,000 per author. Again, I am not sure what this is really about or how justified it is.·         Illustrations, designed and added: No set fee; quotes given by individual requirements.
$50,000: All as in $20,000 package plus;‘Numerous additions customized to each author.’ (not specified).Obviously, there is a little more to this then I have outlined above.
As you see this is not an option for those of us with little or no resources. Nevertheless, it may appeal to some who do have the means, especially business personal with niche markets. Of course, it does have the advantage that the author’s time is not tied up with all the peripheral issues related to publishing. And, we must not forget those who just cannot face the idea of writing their own books. There is also the additional element related to marketing, which most of us find difficult, tedious, unrelenting and often unsuccessful. However, though marketing and promotion is listed as an element of each package, I have the impression this would only be in the initial stages and probably limited.
I must not forget the matter of royalties. The company clear states, in one of their blog posts, that the author retains 100%. In view of the substantial fees I should think so.
I must make clear I am not affiliated in any way to Book in a Box nor have I used their services. It is simply, having, over the years, seen people comment upon how the idea of writing, even reviews of books, scares them, I thought some may like to know about the existence of this fairly new company.
You may read more for yourself at: http://www.bookinabox.com

Addicted to Dimes (Confessions of a Liar and a Cheat) by Catherine Townsend-Lyon - Book Review

A very personal, honest, no holds barred memoir.  This is the tale of the author’s journey with gambling addiction.
Catherine Townsend-Lyon has been very honest about all her failings.  Though she admits writing the book had a cathartic effect it must have been very hard to recall and put into the public view all that occurred on her journey.  She has to be admired and respected for having taken this step.
The author has endured much but at the same time I think it only right to remind readers she is anything but alone in this.  Many of us, one way or another, have suffered in our lives, some similar to her own experiences, others very different.  We are each unique and individual and though there may be similarities each of our journeys differ.
Though one of her motivations for writing this book is to help others who suffer with the same addiction it should be born in mind this is very much her own tale.  No doubt others have and do experience similar circumstances but this is not a handbook for them.  Nevertheless, having said that, it should help many to appreciate they are not alone; that others have and are going through similar difficulties; that there is hope; that there is escape if they truly work toward it.
Throughout, ‘triggers’ are described and talked about but we must bear in mind these are also personal to her.  For others the ‘triggers’ may be very different.  Catherine (if I may be so personal as to refer to her by first name) frequently explains how, through her dysfunctional family, she consistently felt valueless.  But in addition, and very sadly, briefly describes; how she was abused by someone outside the family; how she was unable to tell anyone about it; how this also acted as a ‘trigger’ and how the combined resulting mind-set and emotions have continued to plague her throughout life.
Drawbacks:
Before mentioning these it is only fair to acknowledge the author has made clear she is not a writer but has simply decided to share her own story.  It is very much told in her own words and expressions which has the benefit of really making this a personal work.  Nevertheless:

I consider the book too long.  Much of what has been shared could be condensed and consequently would make it a more readily readable book.  For many time is an issue and it would be a shame if readers gave up because of the length.
Until approximately the sixty percent mark (I read this on a Kindle and therefor am referring to percentages rather than page numbers) I did not feel drawn into the story.  Of course this may be personal to me but up to this point I felt I was simply being presented with information and facts.  I was able to sympathise but that was all.  However, after this point there were areas where I felt empathy for the author; could feel her emotions, concerns, sorrow and disappointment.
Most addiction recovery programmes have a twelve step process.  The author frequently refers to these but never really explains what is involved.  Of course I appreciate this is not intended to be a formal guide but it would have been nice to have a little more understating of what these steps involve; many readers will not be suffering from the addiction but will be reading out of genuine and general interest.
Rating: As any regular or frequent readers of this blog and my reviews will know, I consider the majority of books fall within the three-star rating.  Regrettably, to my mind at least, the rating system has been undermined, sad to say mostly by self-published authors, by the constant allocation of higher ratings than often merited.  But at the same time, I acknowledge reading is a subjective experience.  Consequently, what one may enjoy another may dislike and each has the right to reflect this.  Nonetheless, I do consider far too many four and five stars have been given.  Now, with respect to this book, I have found it difficult to determine a final rating.  The author has willingly shared everything, exposing all her faults and failures honestly.  She has taken us on the difficult journey of her life without drawing back from the realities, prepared to endure the opinions and attitudes that may result.  For this reason, and despite the reservations referred to above, I consider the book merits a higher rating than three stars.  Existing rating systems, well at least those that are primarily used by readers, do not allow for percentages.  Consequently, I feel there is no option but for me to allocate 4 stars (****).
The book is available both as a paperback and as an e-book from:
Amazon.com: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CSUJI3A
Amazon.co.uk: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00CSUJI3A
Catherine Townsend-Lyon contacted me about a year ago asking if I would consider a review exchange of books.  I agreed and we exchanged free copies.  I did explain it would take a while for me to read and review; there are many demands upon my time.  Nevertheless, a year is excessive.  Unexpectedly some family issues arose, including health, that required my absence from my usual routine.  At first I tried to keep up but in the end had to abandon my on-line and reading activity.  In the end I was absent for eight to nine months.  Of course I then had the mammoth catching up process to go through.  However, I firmly believe we should always fulfil our undertakings, even, as in this case, where deadlines have to be postponed.  I suspect Catherine may think I am one of those who accept free books without fulfilling their commitment because I have not seen any review of my own book.  All I may do is apologise to her for the long delay but in my own defence point out it has been due to circumstances outside of my control.

Book Marketing - A Lottery?

I feel, before proceeding, I need to make clear, though I am sharing some of my own observations and experiences, they are in fact not entirely my own.  I have seen many discussions where others state (or complain about) the same issues and matters.
What I like to refer to as my writing career commenced in earnest in 2011 though I did not publish my first book until the following year, 2012.  Matters were very different then; self-publishing was in its infancy consequently, there had been considerable interest in this new medium.  Marketing, though never really that easy, was a simpler issue.  Indie authors were just discovering the new facilities and systems being made available to them; notably by Amazon at the start.  Of course others, such as Smashwords, Google, iBooks etc. soon followed.  Further, and most advantageous for people like me, the majority of these services provided free options.
Being such a new product there were naturally fewer self-published books.  Therefore, readers had little difficulty discovering new books at reasonable prices.  It had also been easier for authors to gain attention.  I do not wish to over simplify the issue, especially as most of us struggle these days, but simply posting details of a new release to Facebook, Twitter etc. did gain far more immediate, and interested, attention from users of these forums.  However, matters have drastically changed since then.  Not only are there considerably more self-published books, estimated at 100,000 per month now, but the social media sites have changed how they operate.  Many would say detrimentally, but I do not wish to enter into such a discussion here.  The result has been that:
The market has become inundated with ‘new’ books.It is far more difficult for readers to, easily, find their next read.Genres have become oversubscribed.The quality of self-published books, understandably with the freedom for anyone to publish without limitation or control, has come under question.There is a high volume of people ‘shouting’ buy my book!Many social media threads simply consist of lists of books available with little, if any discussion.
This may be controversial for me to say but, in my experience the majority of indie authors have become rather selfish.  When I started out I had been grateful to many for their willingness to freely share advice and experience, something I have since tried to reciprocate.  I had and have extremely little in the way of resources and if it had not been for these very kind people would still be struggling to understand the self-publishing concept and processes.  I also enjoyed many interesting and informative discussions.  These days it is hard to get conversations going; I have tried but frequently receive no response.  I must make clear, though this has been my general experience, it is not so in all cases.  There are still one or two friendly groups where people like to discuss issues.  But even in some of these it is often someone just wanting their voice and opinion to be heard rather than actually entering into discussion.  This post is not intended to be a critique of social media and attitudes but I felt, as it impinges upon book publicity, I should refer to it.
So back to my original question: Is Book Marketing comparable to the lottery?
What are the odds of winning the lottery?
Lotto: Was 1 in 14,000,000 now, since the change in October 2015, suggested to be 1 in 10,000,000.Thunderball: 1 in 8,060,598 (Top prize limited to £500,000).EuroMillions: 1 in 116,531,800.
Are the odds for we self-publishing authors any better?  Hard to tell but, in all honesty, I think they may probably be worse for some of us.  The genre you write in does appear to have an impact e.g. ‘Romance’ and, regrettably, ‘Erotica’ appear to sell better than more traditional genres.
Of course we cannot deny there has been the occasional exception.  There are a few self-published books that have hit the best-seller lists.  Yet even these have not resulted in endless sells of subsequent books.  Then there are those that have not only become best-sellers but have also gone on to be made into successful films.  In these instances, I suspect the author has made enough money not to have to worry about their future, whether they continue writing or not.  But they are the exception.
Before we start feeling sorry for ourselves, it must be acknowledged even established authors are now finding it more difficult to sell books.  The market is flooded added to which the advent of e-books, which sell for considerably less than a paper or hardback, has had its impact.  Some well-known authors seeing this, and the detrimental, controlling, contracts of traditional publishers as a challenge, have decided to opt for hybrid publishing i.e. continuing with traditional but also self-publishing.  For them marketing is a little easier due to their established name but even some of them point out it is not as it used to be.
For most of us social media, and the like, is the only viable option.  Of course if an author has the means they may launch national or international publicity/marketing campaigns.  Yet even these are not guaranteed to result in success.  Even full blown press releases, posters, book signings etc. no longer appear to have any dramatic impact.
It seems all is negative for us but should we lose heart?  I have to admit it can be hard to keep going at times but, there is always hope.  Just like the pot-chance involved with the lottery so, to some extent, is it with book marketing.  With the lottery it is just a matter of selecting the right numbers.  With book marketing it is just hoping the right people see, and read, your book.  If you do not participate in the lottery then, of course, you stand no chance of winning.  If you do not tell people about your book, how are they going to know it even exists?
Please do not lose heart.  If others can succeed SO CAN YOU!  At least we do not have to lay out a financial commitment each week.  AND, there is someone out there who will be interested in your book; just have to get it in front of them.  Am I being over optimistic or living in cuckoo land?  I do not think so.  Yes, it may take time; it may never happen in your life time; but it may happen later.  One instance I heard of: a gentleman’s grandmother had published a book that had attracted not attention but then, for no apparent reason, it suddenly became popular in his life time.  Not, perhaps what we are looking for but at least we may be leaving something valuable for those that come after us.  Naturally, I hope my books will see success in my own life time and I am sure you do also.  Yes, it does feel like a lottery, nevertheless, I believe my tales are worth telling and should not be lost to posterity.  I cannot help but continue writing and I hope you will also.  There is also the argument many put forward; that the more books you have available the more chance you have of being discovered.  Whether you participate in lotteries or not I wish you all the best and every success in all areas.

Book Marketing - Are Book Signings Worth While?

In these days when an estimated 100,000 new books are being published each month all authors, even those with established careers let alone we self-published ones, eagerly seek ways of promoting our works.  Book signings are seen by many as one of the tools we may use to this end.  But do they really work?  Do they result in extended readerships and fans?  Are they worth all the effort, and in some cases, cost?   I posed the question in a variety of forums.  The following reflects a combination of my own and others opinions and experiences.
Location: The most obvious choice would be bookshops followed by book fairs, cafes, libraries and reader groups.  Basically somewhere that readers are likely to congregate.  I was interested in one author who has, with some success, also held book signings in charity shops.
Publicising: Posters, handouts, local press and word-of-mouth.  Of course social media may also be utilized by those who have an established readership or following.
Cost: Books; need to ensure there are enough copies to hand.  Publicity, as mentioned above; posters, press adverts (unless fortunate enough to have an editor who likes to promote local events), handouts etc.  May also be helpful to have book marks and business cards to hand.  Catering; some events require the provision of drinks and snacks (the author is, in most cases, expected to bear the cost of such).  Donations e.g. where the event is in somewhere like a charity shop.  Transport.
Event: Should you hold an individual event or a combined one?  For example: a signing at a book fair would naturally mean the opportunity is shared with other authors.  Some books shops would also prefer an event that includes multiple authors.  Of course I am not here alluding to with well know, established reputations.  My concern is with us less or totally unknown indie authors.  I do not think there is any strong feeling either way.  A combined event would mean any general costs are shared.  However, those who have participated in these have stated they sell less books owing to the multiple choices open to attendees.  Some have even stated they end up buying more books than they sell.  Not a bad thing in itself as it has the effect of authors supporting authors.  There is more so I will come back to the concept of ‘event’ in a moment.
Motivation: To sell more books?  Well yes that must be the underlying motivation.  However, I was interested to note several said they held book signings because they enjoyed them.  They delight in meeting new people and in interacting with them.  Of course the opportunity to gain more publicity must also be a factor.  Nevertheless, for many authors this public exposure is in fact a problem because many tend to be quiet introverts.  They may cope with sitting at a table and simply signing copies of their book(s) but please see the following paragraph.
Method: Traditionally a book signing is envisioned as the author sitting at a table while readers queue to obtain their signature on a purchased copy of their book(s).  However, it appears this method is no longer favoured for the average author.  Again, if the author is famous or at least well know, it seems acceptable but not for the rest of us.  So what is required from a book singing these days?  I said I would come back the concept of ‘event’ and this is where I do so.
In many, if not most, cases the organisation hosting the event, be it a bookshop, café etc. will want to know what is in it for them.  Hosting an event must naturally cause some disturbance to their normal routine.  The majority will want to know if the event is going to bring them anymore business.  We live in a commercial world and profits are constantly at the fore of a business’s considerations.  I would imagine even libraries will wish to assess whether the disruption would be worth their while.
To this end some have clearly stated that the best book signings they have held are when:
There is the opportunity to read excerpts from their book(s).They have the opportunity to speak to the audience.There is interaction e.g. question and answer scenarios.  One reader mentioned how an author whose event she attended had a quick wit and had the audience laughing most of the time.Part of their tales are acted out.  One author got acting students from their local college to do this.
The host would see these as attracting more customers and consequently, as an aside, more business for them
Who goes to a book signing?
Friends and relatives of the author.  Some went so far as to state these were the only people who had specifically attended.Readers who enjoy the author’s book(s).  Of course this depends upon how convenient it is for them to get to the location.Readers who like to take an interest in books generally.  Such was the one mentioned above who found the author entertaining.Those who happen to be browsing in the location (bookshop, book fair, library etc.) or who are enjoying a coffee in the café etc.  Whether these may strictly be referred to as attending is immaterial.  The fact they take an interest is what matters.  And if they buy a book and perhaps tell their friends then it can only be a good thing.
Bearing in mind the last point above; some have suggested it worthwhile to have something to give to those who happen to be in the location but not specifically to attend the event or buy a book.  Something meaningful that will remind them of who and what they saw.  What this should consist of must be down to the individual author and their budget.  Perhaps a simple bookmark would be sufficient or perhaps, for those with the resources, a small gift bag of some sort.  Whatever it is, it would have to be a free item.
We should bear in mind what some have said about the commitment required in holding a book signing.  How these are time consuming events.  First, there is getting businesses to hold the event.  Second, pre-planning, publicity material creation, advertising etc.  Third, organising the catering (where refreshments are to be provided).  Fourth and last, attending the event where perhaps they will stand around for the whole period without any interest being shown.
Overall how successful are book signings?  Many, I would go as far as to say the majority, say these events do not usually result in many sells; at the event or subsequently.  There is the occasional exception.  One author stated they made between $200 and $500 at each event but this figure did include speaking fees.  Most found they only sold between 3/4 - 8/10 books at any one event.  And as mentioned above, when the event is shared, they hardly sold any.
So, why hold a book signing?  They create the opportunity to:
publicise the book(s);hopefully, sell a few;interact with established and potential readers;fuel word-of mouth recommendations.
I must make clear I have never held such an event for my own books and never will be able to do so.  As much as I would like the opportunity I, for the protection of others, have to retain anonymity.  My books both autobiographical and fictional relate the acts of many people.  Though some may deserve reprisal I do not wish to be responsible for them, their dependents or their friends suffering such.  I have suffered enough in my own life to wish to perpetuate such behaviour. Neither do I wish them or my own family to endure embarrassment or ridicule.

Update to Novel 'PETER'

On Monday (21st) I let you know the novel ‘PETER’ had finally been published.  My intention had been to publish last September (2015) but family issues, including health, kept me away for many months.  At time of posting not all links to the book were available.  Though I now have more it is still taking time for it to be shown on all sites; some carry out their own checks, which do delay publication.  I am not critical of this because, in these days when there is a tendency to rush everything, it is nice to know some are still thorough, thereby ensuring good quality products.



  The image above is of the whole cover for the paperback edition (minus the bar-code).  Of course it is also available as an e-book from a variety of on-line retailers.
Synopsis:
'It can and does happen: A chance encounter that leads to romance, love and fulfilment. Equally, such an encounter may lead to fear, sorrow and loss. Both are met in this tale that crosses national and social boundaries and within which unwarranted evil plays a far too real part.
In all innocence the protagonists go about their daily lives occasionally taking in divergent activities out of curiosity or in the interest of learning more about life. Being caring and kind hearted both fail to understand why they are constantly warned about helping others. Ultimately, after numerous twists and turns, the truth behind these warnings becomes manifest with results never anticipated or expected.'




I hope many of you will find time to read PETER and will enjoy it.  If you do I, along with other indie authors, would appreciate you leaving a review on your favourite retailer’s sites and on such social media as you may use.  Reviews do help those of us who self-publish and do not have access to full blown publicity campaigns.
Links to Book:
 USA: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B01D7EIZNO
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01D7EIZNO
iBooks: https://itunes.apple.com/gb/book/peter/id1095508619?mt=11
Google Play Books: https://play.google.com/store/books/details/T_R_Robinson_Peter?id=sS3FCwAAQBAJ
Kobo: https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/peter-25

It should also be available in the next few days from Barnes & Noble, Nook and others including library listings.

PETER - New Novel

I do not usually talk very much about my books in posts but today am indulging myself.

My new, and first, novel Peter has been published!

Synopsis:

It can and does happen: A chance encounter that leads to romance, love and fulfilment. Equally, such an encounter may lead to fear, sorrow and loss. Both are met in this tale that crosses national and social boundaries and within which unwarranted evil plays a far too real part.

In all innocence the protagonists go about their daily lives occasionally taking in divergent activities out of curiosity or in the interest of learning more about life. Being caring and kind hearted both fail to understand why they are constantly warned about helping others. Ultimately, after numerous twists and turns, the truth behind these warnings becomes manifest with results never anticipated or expected.

Though the tale is primarily fictional it was inspired by actual events.

There are a couple of small anomalies with Amazon that I am attempting to resolve nevertheless, the book is available to purchase.  It is also available from Smashwords and Google Play Books.  As yet it is not available from iBooks, Barnes & Noble, Nook, Kobo etc. but should be in the next five days.  Naturally I will post links once I have them.

In the meantime you may view, and purchase if you wish, by following these Amazon links: 

USA: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B01D7EIZNO 

UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01D7EIZNO