T.R. Robinson's Blog, page 8
July 3, 2020
The Chair Man by Alex Pearl
[image error]On 7 July 2005 there were four separate but co-ordinated terrorist suicide attacks in London, England. Three were on trains in the London Underground (Tube; Metro) and one on a bus. The day has since become known, among British citizens at least, as 7/7. It is often deemed the equivalent of the infamous United States of America’s 9/11. Though not as extensive as 9/11 it was still traumatic and devastating. There were fifty-six, mixed race, deaths (including the bombers) and seven hundred and eighty-four injuries.
The tone, ethos, and background for this tale are established up front by the author’s dedication:
‘In memory of the victims of the London 7/7 atrocity and all other terrorist outrages.’
The tale commences with the introduction of the protagonist, a survivor, despite his serious injuries, of the bombings. The reader soon learns what is to be the driving force behind the subsequent events: desire for reprisal and revenge against those for dominance and destruction. Throughout, all characters are introduced in well rounded form which enables the reader to visualise, identify, and, where appropriate, empathise, with them.
The story unfolds from all perspectives: terrorist, victim, colleagues, medics, security personnel, friends, and family. It is to the author’s credit that he has attempted, with great success it must be said, to comprehend and understand the motivations, philosophies, and frustrations involved. It is obvious a considerable amount of research went into this remarkable tale for which the author should be commended.
Throughout the reader is kept engaged, suspecting but not quite sure of where the tale is going and frequently surprised by where it does take them. The style flows easily building upon each block as the reader progresses. Nevertheless, despite the steady onward flow, the read should not be rushed: there is considerable content to be absorbed including many valid observations on life and society and how it has changed. It would be easy to miss much of value if the reader does not take time to assimilate each element.
Alex Pearl has made this a realistic and relatable story by avoiding unnecessary frills other authors may have been tempted to incorporate. The reader will have no difficulty comprehending and identifying with the, sadly, modern scenarios. Though the plot, in association with the various sub-plots, may appear complex it is not really and is in no way cumbersome. Each event smoothly transitions to the next.
It is difficult to do this brilliant book justice in a short review. Anyone interested in reflections upon modern society and the impact of terror attacks, as well as those who simply enjoy a good book, will find this an engaging and involved read. The ending will also surprise them because it is certainly not anticipated.
The book is available in digital (Kindle ebook) and paperback formats.
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Alex Pearl has previously participated in an author interview that may be read here.
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A review of Alex’s first book ’Sleeping with the Blackbirds’ (a YA genre story) may also be accessed by clicking here.
June 23, 2020
8 Editing Processes
[image error]Many authors, probably the majority, find the prospect of editing their own work frustrating and intimidating. Of course, if the resources are available, the best option is to employ a professional editor. Even then, authors should have undertaken some self-editing prior to despatching the manuscript. There are various elements to editing and it is important not to confuse it with proof-reading. Each has a different aim and cannot replace the other, even though the terms are frequently used interchangeably.
A previous article Editing Your Own Work examined the issue in detail and suggested some processes to help. The following infograph is based upon that article.
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Editing is crucial if the author truly wishes to produce the best book they can. Hopefully this infograph will assist them with this important task.
June 19, 2020
Arabesque: Dancing On the Edge in Los Angeles by Cherie Magnus
[image error]Arabesque is a memoir that depicts the author’s early years. In many ways it may be viewed as a coming-of-age account. One aspect arising almost immediately is Cherie’s passion for dance. A passion that developed early on. A passion that has never abated and continues to the present day. Indeed, for lover’s of dance in all its forms this will prove an enjoyable read. However, the memoir is by no means limited to dance. The reader is treated to a variety of insights into family, and other, relationships and the foibles and difficulties that frequently accompany them. The author’s own background presented challenges which are related in visual format.
Beside recounting her own development from child to young adult, Cherie also shares the frustrations and disappointments of loving someone with a different perspective on life. Her love was so deep she willingly compromised on much, including, for that immediate future, abandoning her early dreams of a dance qualification. It should be pointed out, though deeply in love, Cherie was by no means empty-headed. She proved pragmatic, acknowledging the need for ‘proper’ qualifications to secure a viable future. Therefore, despite the various challenges, she determined to obtain the best she could from what was available, though her love of dance never diminished.
As indicated, this is a tale of mixed hopes, challenges, and emotions. The stresses and strains of the various incidents did take a toll, leading to personal difficulties, some very serious. These are shared eloquently enabling the reader to sympathise and empathise with the author’s fears, emotions, and concerns and to hope they never suffer the same.
This personal tale is set against the social background of the time, both world and local which, will bring back memories for those who lived through the time, and should be of interest to younger readers interested in learning more about their ancestor’s lives. The period is primarily the nineteen-sixties. In addition, the detailed information and description of localities will assist those who have knowledge of the areas, principally Los Angeles, though visits to other places are also described, identify and follow the author’s journeys, especially her regular daily commutes.
This is a very well written account nevertheless, it is not an unusual or remarkable tale. Undoubtedly, some readers will be able to identify with the issues and frustrations of teenage life this story brings out.
Though the book stands on its own, readers should note it is in fact a prequel to the author’s first published memoir The Church of Tango.
Arabesque is available in paperback and digital (e-book) formats.
June 16, 2020
Backstories - What should be in them?
https://bit.ly/2zBcnyk
Thank you (in anticipation of your participation).
June 9, 2020
Making Time for Marketing
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Marketing and finding time for it is, for many authors, irrespective of whether they are self-published or traditionally published, a bane. It is often a source of irritation because writing time has to be sacrificed to attend to it. Nonetheless, it is a necessary element in the authoring process. Without it how are readers to know the book(s) exist? Of course, there are some authors who primarily write for themselves, their relatives and their friends, and are not concerned about wider distribution. However, a majority would like to get their book(s) into the general reading community.
Undoubtedly, the best approach is to have a marketing plan. General advice from both professional and experienced writers and author help organisations and sites support this. Prior to preparing a schedule the author needs to determine their actual time availability taking into account such things as:
Travelling: for those who have full or part-time employment. (Of course, unless driving, they may utilise this time for other things.);
Work: again for those who have a job;
Family: authors who neglect time with their families do so at their own, and their families, peril. (This applies whether there are children or not.);
Care: for those who look after relatives.
Domesticity: e.g. cleaning; shopping; preparing meals; maintenance; gardening; etc.;
Pet care: e.g. walking the dog; changing the litter; defleaing; etc.;
Exercise: keeping fit, beside having physical benefits, is also good for the mind, thereby helping authors to work at full capacity;
Self: people often forget everyone needs some time for themselves;
Reading: authors should always be reading other authors books, not just their own;
Other events and tasks: Everyone is unique and has varying demands upon their time.
Authors need to be realistic when assessing how much time is required for each activity. It may help to monitor each over a number of days prior to establishing a plan. Once determined they may sit down and decide how to portion and allocate the time remaining. The following are some suggested activities for which time will have to be allotted:
Writing: naturally, this is a prerequisite for authors;
Proofreading and Editing: necessary procedures if the author is to produce the best book possible;
Blurb/Synopsis: (Blurb: for back of book and book retail pages.) (Synopsis: where an agent and publisher are sought.) These are notoriously difficult to write and consequently, take more time than is normally appreciated;
Metadata: Front and Back matter e.g. copyright statement; dedication; genre; category; keywords; etc. It is widely accepted such information may have considerable impact upon a book’s discoverability;
Cover design and/or purchase;
Submitting manuscripts: applies for both self and traditional publishing;
Publicity: e.g. cover reveal; pre-publication promotion; pre-order set up; etc;
Marketing: in its various forms and formats;
Blogging: ideally all authors should at least have a blog and/or website. Writing and, where necessary researching, posts frequently takes far more time than people initially realise;
Social Media: maintaining a regular presence is considered important by many. Beside a website and/or blog, social media is where most readers get to know, and interact with, the authors they like and follow.
Undoubtedly, people will be able to think of additional time demanding requirements.
It has been suggested ‘burnout’ may be a major reason for authors giving up on marketing. For example: in the first flush of enthusiasm some my mentally allocate fifteen hours a week for marketing when in reality they only have fifteen minutes a day, or less, available. They may also propose a daily routine when the time left them only enables two or three visits a week. Inevitably they will not be able to meet the unrealistic fifteen hour target and will consequently suffer frustration, disappointment, a sense of failure, or maybe worse. Depression, mild or serious, is a terrible thing and is very hard to get from under. It certainly prevents people from working at full capacity.
Conclusion
Though it may be seen as a bane and a further frustration to achieving their writing goals, authors, if they are serious about getting their book(s) into readers hands, need to market.
To be effective they must first assess their time availability and then formulate a realistic marketing plan based upon that assessment.
Once established authors should stick to the schedule for two or three weeks and then re-assess. If it is working then fine but if they find it is draining their energies or not achieving the aim, a revised plan should be prepared. This time it may be based upon the realities of what they have experienced.
Marketing is frequently, if not always, a trial and error process. Perseverance is essential. Eventually, the author will find a formula that works for them, though they can never rest back on their laurels: the world is constantly changing and along with it such things as taste, likes, fashion, social media, etc. Reading tastes are not exempt. To be constantly effective, marketing plans need to kept under review and amended as becomes appropriate.
Please feel free to add any further insight you may have into the topic of ‘time for marketing’ by means of a comment.
Note: At the time of writing the world is in the grip of Coronavirus consequently, during lockdown, some of the activities mentioned in this article may not be happening. Nevertheless, a few remain relevant combined with the fact matters will, eventually, return to normal, though it has to be accepted ‘normal’ may be different to what it was before the pandemic.
June 5, 2020
Smashwords Book Marketing Guide by Mark Coker
[image error]Marketing, no matter the business or person, is always a challenge. This is even more so for independent (indie) authors who, initially at least, have never been exposed to such a world. Consequently, anything that provides quality insight into it is very welcome.
The author, Mark Coker, is the founder of Smashwords, a publishing and distribution platform he designed for the primary purpose of helping unknown, individual, independent authors. He was motivated to do this when he and his wife encountered difficulties in getting their first book published and available to a general readership. This was back in 2005. The Smashwords site was launched in 2008.
Mark Coker’s background is public relations, that, combined with his own subsequent experience with Smashwords, makes him an ideal author for a book about book marketing.
Every aspect of book marketing an author may think of, and some they probably have not, are covered: Author Branding; Platform Building; E-Mail; Blogging; The Media; Social Media; etc. In other words anything/any source where a book’s existence and content may be publicised. A wide range of tactics are considered and discussed in detail including ways for the author to make their book(s) the best possible. It should be pointed out some suggestions specifically home in on various facilities available within the Smashwords environment however, this does not detract from the information shared, nor would it hurt for authors to consider trying some of them out.
This is an ideal book for those new to authoring and book marketing. It is easy to follow and understand, comprehensive and far reaching. Naturally, it is entirely up to the reader whether they implement some or all of the ideas presented but it is a useful guide. Authors who have been on the path for a while will undoubtedly find much is not new to them nevertheless, it does not hurt to be reminded, from time to time, of what is available. Smashwords Book Marketing Guide deserves a place in any authors reference library.
Publishing, The Internet, and Social Media constantly evolve consequently, the author, generously it must be said in view of the extra work and time required, regularly publishes updated editions. This review relates to the 2018 edition though readers should note the 2020 one is now available.
The book is available from multiple retailers including the author’s own Smashwords publishing site and Amazon. Again, very generously, Mark Coker has made this book free though there may be one or two retailers who attach a small price.
Smashwords (available in formats to suit all devices: Smartphone (iPhone & Android); Tablet; E-Reader (including Kindle); Computer; etc.)
Authors who would like to know about publishing with Smashwords may find further information in the previous article Publishing With Smashwords.
Disclaimer: Other than publishing through the platform and using its services, neither T. R. Robinson Publications nor T. R. Robinson have any affiliation to or with the Smashwords company or organisation. Nor do either receive any remuneration for referring to it.
May 26, 2020
TikTok and Authors
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TikTok is a short-form video sharing social media site that gained substantial popularity in 2019 (it was the second most downloaded social media app (application) that year).
The originating company Douyin (under which the site continues to trade in China) was founded in 2012. It was not until 2017 it launched an app for international use outside of China. The company is based in Beijing however, its international servers are located within the countries where the app is available for download. This international element was originally a music based site known as Musical.ly. In effect the two subsequently merged to become TikTok. Lip sync or lip synch (lip synchronisation) the ‘technical term for matching a speaking or singing person’s lip movements with prerecorded sung or spoken vocals …’ (Wikipedia) was and remains an essential component.
TikTok’s mission statement: ‘TikTok is the leading destination for short-form mobile video. Our mission is to inspire creativity and bring joy.’
The app is primarily designed for mobile phone usage. However, for those who want to access it via a computer there is an option to do so by first downloading a software package known as Bluestacks (originally designed to enable mobile games to be played on a computer).
As stated, the intent is to provide a means for users to watch and share short-form videos of between 3 to 15 seconds and short looping videos of between 3 to 60 seconds (60 when segments are strung together). From within the app users are able to create and upload videos of themselves, alone or with others, doing whatever they wish. A variety of enhancement facilities are also available: music (the app incorporates Apple music); filters; animation; time effects; split screens; transitions; stickers; emoji; GIFs; and more. Naturally there is also an edit facility. It is indeed quite versatile. Users may also live stream. Account holders may also upload their own videos (may be in excess of the 60 second rule applicable to videos made from within the app).
Anyone who has no wish to create or upload their own may freely watch videos without having to create an account. They simply have to access the site through a browser and then click on whichever video(s) they would like to view. A ‘Watch now’ button automatically appears in the top right corner of the screen from which trending videos may be accessed. All users, and visitors, also have the facility to freely download and share any video.
Videos may be public or private. Accounts may be set to: public; friends only; or private. Where an account holder chooses private they need to be aware, despite the setting, TikTok will always have access to the content. Beyond that only those the user has authorised may view a video. As with most social media sites, viewers may: follow; like; and comment, making this a fully versatile site.
Users should be aware the company uses artificial intelligence (AI) to analyse their interests, preferences, and interactions upon which it bases recommendations for further viewing or accounts to follow. Naturally, displayed adverts are also based upon the same information (adverts provide TikTok with considerable income).
Security
Before signing up for an account, people need to be aware there have been some security concerns regarding use of information. In some ways these are similar to those recently expressed in respect of Huwaei. The Chinese based site Douyin is obliged, by Chinese law, to share details with the Chinese government. However, because TikTok is principally based within each of the countries it operates in, it states there is no such obligation with regard to international users. Nevertheless, it must remain a concern. In addition the company has faced occasional censorship for such things as cultural degradation; explicit content; and violation of children’s privacy. Some of these have been dealt with but in the United States of America (USA) the government has launched a national security review. There has also been a suggestion the app/site may not be safe when personal information is kept within the device being used.
Demographics
TikTok is the sixth largest social networking site.
The app is available in 154 countries.
There have been in excess of 1.65 billion downloads of the app.
There are 800 million active monthly users.
Worldwide, half of users are under 34.
A majority, estimated at 60%, of users are between 16 to 24.
Unlike many sites, 56% of users are male.
These are just some of the figures available.
Note: This information has been gleaned from various sources and the writer is not able to guarantee accuracy though there is no reason to think it too far from the truth.
Authors
A consistent piece of advice to all authors, is to identify their ideal reader/target audience. If anything that is probably even more relevant when it comes to sites such as TikTok.
Before proceeding there are some points authors should consider:
The primary user group comprises 16 to 24 year olds.
Whether they are familiar with, and able to create relevant, short-form videos (3-15 seconds).
Short-form entertainment and humour (or what passes for such) is a primary aim.
Before making a decision it is suggested authors access the site and watch a few of the trending videos to gain a feel for what the majority of TikTok’s users enjoy.
Authors who write in the YA (Young Adult) genre may well consider the site a suitable outlet for their books. However, those who write in a more mature genre will need to seriously consider whether the site would be beneficial for them.
Of course there is no reason why all authors should not utilise the site for publicising themselves with entertaining short videos. By joining in they may be able to build a following and develop some relationships that will ultimately provide opportunities for sharing about their books. Naturally, this will not appeal to any of a shy and/or introverted disposition.
Conclusion
TikTok can provide entertainment and lighthearted distraction for those pressured moments. However, its suitability for authors has to be considered limited. In view of the primary age group, YA authors may find it useful but others will need to seriously consider whether to trouble themselves with the site.
For those who wish to know more:
Disclaimer: Neither T. R. Robinson Publications or T. R. Robinson have an affiliation to or with either of the sites mentioned. Nor do either receive any remuneration for referring to them.
May 22, 2020
Change to Review Rating Policy
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Over recent years it has become apparent numerical star ratings included with book reviews are being given too much weight. In some instances they have become so emotive as to override the actual content of the review, whether positive or negative.
In view of the above, and in a wish to ensure the actual content of a review receives full attention (some people’s eyes automatically travel straight pass the written words to the numerical rating), appreciation and absorption, the decision has been made not to include numerical star ratings with reviews published in this website and associated blog. The intent is for reviews to stand on their own merits.
This change of policy will take immediate effect: all future reviews published here will not include a star rating.
Despite the above change in policy for this website, reviews published elsewhere (book retailers; book sharing social media sites; etc) require, in most instances, a numerical star rating to be included. The only alternative to not doing so, is not to publish a review. That would be unfair to both author and reader. Consequently, when publishing a review in any of those sites, the policy outlined in this website’s Rating Review Policy will be applied.
The Rating Review Policy document has been updated to reflect this change in policy.
May 12, 2020
Amazon Anti-Manipulation Policy for Customer Reviews – Update
!!! IMPORTANT!!!
This should be read in conjunction with the previous article Why Amazon is Removing Reviews the content of which remains relevant.
Undoubtedly, though it remains a topic of discussion for some, product reviews can be influential in shopper decisions. As a result, many producers, including authors, are, and have been for some time, tempted to game the facility by obtaining false, or inappropriate, reviews. Amazon, probably the world’s largest online retailer, sought to bring this under control by imposing strict reviewing conditions along with repercussions for those who breached the rules. This appeared to have some impact though, as most authors and readers will know, regrettable anomalies arose with some valid reviews being deleted. Unfortunately, despite the penalties, many people have continued to abuse the system leading Amazon to impose even more draconian conditions and penalties.
The following is a verbatim copy of the enhanced rules:
‘Customers trust that they can shop with confidence on Amazon. Reviews provide a forum for sharing authentic feedback about products and services – positive or negative. Any attempt to manipulate reviews, including by directly or indirectly contributing false, misleading or inauthentic content, is strictly prohibited.
We take the integrity of our reviews platform very seriously. If we determine that you have attempted to manipulate reviews or violated our guidelines in any other manner, we may immediately suspend or terminate your Amazon privileges, remove reviews, and delist related products. In addition, if we determine that an Amazon account has been used to engage in review manipulation, remittances and payments may be withheld or forfeited. Misconduct may also violate state and federal laws, including the Federal Trade Commission Act, and can lead to legal action and civil and criminal penalties.
We pursue lawsuits for reviews manipulation against dishonest sellers and manufacturers who attempt to purchase fraudulent reviews and the parties who provide and post those reviews. These lawsuits have produced monetary judgments exceeding the annual revenue for such sellers and data allowing us to take additional enforcement actions against others. We suspend and ban the accounts of others who engage in review abuse or otherwise violate our guidelines. We will continue to remove reviews that violate our policies and pursue the sellers and manufacturers who create the demand for fraudulent reviews and the individuals and organizations who supply fraudulent reviews through all available means.
We encourage anyone who suspects that review manipulation is taking place or that our guidelines are being violated in any other manner to notify us. We will investigate the concern thoroughly and take any appropriate actions.’
Anyone seeking reviews AND those who propose to write a review should ensure they fully comprehend each and every aspect of the rules. If they do not, they may make themselves subject to severe, and very damaging, repercussions.
There is much to take in and though the temptation was to highlight specific elements it would probably be a disservice to do so. Nevertheless, there are a couple of salient points which could do with drawing out. These are repeated below with some additional explanation.
‘In addition, if we determine that an Amazon account has been used to engage in review manipulation, remittances and payments may be withheld or forfeited.’
For authors, ‘remittances and payments’ means royalties. Therefore, in all likelihood, any payments due at the time of the infringement will not be paid. This is in addition to being banned from reviewing or selling on Amazon. Of course, there are other book retailers and being banned from Amazon would not be the end of the world. Nonetheless, they loss access to a very large market not to mention the damage their reputation may suffer, never a good thing.
‘Misconduct may also violate state and federal laws, including the Federal Trade Commission Act, and can lead to legal action and civil and criminal penalties.’
Authors take note: criminal charges with ‘criminal penalties’ are likely to be against them as the product producer, seller, and person seeking reviews.
Amazon considers the following as ‘review manipulation’ and ‘misconduct’ and will take action accordingly:
Paying for reviews.
Trading them (i.e. exchanging review for review).
Offering gifts or prizes (applies even if only a token gift or prize).
Giving free review copies.
Anything that acts as an incentive beside the blurb, description, or equivalent.
Regrettably, as already mentioned, despite all the warnings and consequences experienced by many, people continue to abuse the system.
Authors: in addition to the above, using your mailing lists and email contacts to request (or beg for) reviews may be considered a breach of rules with the consequent penalties, as outlined.
Readers: take care not to be tempted by inappropriate offers in exchange for a review. Accepting such will place you in the position of a rule breaker. Be assured, you will be penalised and will probably be prevented from submitting any further reviews and may even have your account closed.
Disproportionate actions: It is accepted Amazon’s draconian action in past times has resulted in the deletion of many valid book reviews and some reviewers being blocked altogether. This is disappointing for both author and reviewer however, Amazon needed to take action. Some have tried to get ‘appropriate’ reviews restored but mostly, so it is understood, without success. The issue is not helped by the fact monitoring is conducted by means of artificial intelligence (computer software systems). Naturally, human monitoring would be preferable but the cost would be considerable.
Conclusion
The abuse and misuse of reviews has to be dealt with in all quarters. If it is not, reviews will become meaningless and may, more than likely will, result in unfair business trading practices. It may also result in customer dissatisfaction where products do not live up to the intimated quality.
When, despite the instigation of revised rules and penalties people continue to act inappropriately, companies have little option but to enhance existing conditions and penalties. Amazon has now taken such action. The fact it is prepared to take legal action shows how serious the matter has become.
Authors and readers must ensure they are fully familiar with the enhanced rules so as not to inadvertently fall foul of them.
Naturally, though the emphasis has been on authors and book reviewers, the conditions outlined above apply to all products.
To view the rules within Amazon’s own site, click here.
Reminder: The above should be read in conjunction with the previous article Why Amazon is Removing Reviews.
May 8, 2020
Author Spotlight – Julie Watson
[image error]Caveat: The following has been gleaned from information in the public domain without the prior knowledge of the author. Consequently, the writer bears no responsibility with regard to accuracy. All information has been interpreted or reproduced ‘as found’.
At an early age midwifery became and remains Julie’s passion. Her initial experience as a nurse aide … at the local maternity annexe … gave her a love for caring for mothers and babies. Julie married young and life was happy until the death of her second baby. Subsequently, she studied to be a nurse and midwife – fulfilling what had become a lifelong dream.
Arising from her experiences and at the suggestion of her daughter, Julie Watson has, so far, authored two books. Within these she not only shares her own story but also, very generously, her knowledge. Within each there is much regarding the joys, complications, difficulties, and sometime sorrows, of child birth. In the first she recounts her journey to overcome challenges and become the midwife that she was born to be. In the second she describes her experiences living and working in Africa: very generously Julie, and her husband, volunteered to help and serve in a less-well-of nation. She has also worked as a midwife in other countries. Through her writing Julie aims to give a message of hope, faith and love. Persevering against the odds and realizing … dreams if … don’t give up. She hopes that her story will inspire others to follow their dreams and not give up hope.
Julie was raised in a small, rural town in New Zealand and now lives in Palmerston North, New Zealand with her husband, Barry.
Expectant mothers, who have no prior knowledge or experience, and those interested in midwifery whether simply from an intellectual viewpoint or as a possible career, will find both books informative. However, it should be pointed out some prospective mothers may prefer not to know all the gritty, nitty, ins-and-outs and potential hazards.
Disclaimer: Other than being a reader of her books and ‘friends’ through social media, Neither T. R. Robinson Publications nor T. R. Robinson have any commercial or financial affiliation with Julie Watson. Nor do either receive any remuneration for mentioning or sharing information relative to her.
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Julie has previously participated in an author interview which may be enjoyed here.
Both Julie Watson books have been reviewed in this website blog.
Click on the appropriate cover image to read review.