Mandy M. Roth's Blog, page 10
May 23, 2024
Ground Training Sources
Here are some of the research sources I used while writing Ground Training. Airaksinen, S. “Bedding and Manure Management in Horse Stables.” Univ of Kuopio. 2006
All Horse Talk Videos. “Feeding Your Horse Alfalfa Cubes: How and Why.” Www.youtube.com, 2009, youtu.be/odidwPNm2v4?si=l0yT23CRyKeDZAlW.
Carmella. “HOW to CARE for a HORSE (Complete Guide).” Www.youtube.com, 31 Aug. 2020, youtu.be/zI8JSTGtRQc?si=FU6EcATao3673CIF.
“How to Start a Boarding Barn & Stable: Essential Guide.” Equine Helper Horseback Riding, Training, & Care, 21 Mar. 2021, equinehelper.com/start-a-boarding-sta....
Carr, Daphne. “Understanding the LRAD, the ‘Sound Cannon’ Police Are Using at Protests, and How to Protect Yourself from It.” Pitchfork, 9 June 2020, pitchfork.com/thepitch/understanding-....
Cochran, Caroline. “Best Bedding for Horses: Guide to Different Types of Materials Mad Barn.” Madbarn.com, 10 Feb. 2023, madbarn.com/best-bedding-for-horses/.
Colorado Equine Veterinary Services. “Preventative Colorado Equine Veterinary Services.” Www.coloradohorsevet.com, www.coloradohorsevet.com/equineservic....
“Colorado Game Warden GameWarden.org. Www.gamewarden.org, www.gamewarden.org/state/colorado.
“Colorado Parks and Wildlife.” Colorado Parks and Wildlife, cpw.state.co.us/learn/Pages/Livingwit....
“Colorado Parks and Wildlife: Coyotes.” Colorado Parks and Wildlife, cpw.state.co.us/learn/Pages/Livingwit....
Colorado State University. “New Horse Arrival and Quarantine Procedures for Barn Managers Animal Biosecurity Colorado State University.” Colostate.edu, 2019, animalbiosecurity.colostate.edu/horse...
“Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center COYOTE.” CWWC, www.wolfeducation.org/coyote.
Corp-Minamiji, DVM, Christy. “Horse Bandaging Fundamentals.” The Horse, 14 Dec. 2018, thehorse.com/115469/horse-bandaging-f....
Culver CPP, Terry. “Today in Security History: From MI-8 to the Black Chamber.” Www.asisonline.org, 10 June 2021, www.asisonline.org/security-managemen....
Dawson, Alex, and Greg Gricus. “Watch Wild Horse, Wild Ride 2012.” Screen Media, 24 Aug. 2012.
Dehler, Gregory. “Ludlow Massacre | United States History [1914].” Encyclopædia Britannica, 13 Apr. 2019, www.britannica.com/event/Ludlow-Massacre.
Dr. Carr Childers, Leisl, et al. “The History of Wild Horses & Burros in Colorado and the American West – 3.103.” Colorado State University, Nov. 2021, extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/n....
Duffus, James. “Rangled Management: Improvements Needed in Federal Wild Horse Program.” US Government Accountability Office, 8 1990, www.gao.gov/assets/rced-90-110.pdf.
DVM, Nancy S. Loving. “Equine Wound Care Done Right.” The Horse, 30 Nov. 2021, thehorse.com/189463/equine-wound-care....
Dziewonski, Greg. “Krav Maga – How to Disarm a Rifle!” Www.youtube.com, 18 Mar. 2018, www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Rgih_Xb46M&a.... Accessed 15 Dec. 2023.
Esme. “How to Groom a Horse + What’s in My Grooming Kit + Tips for Grey Ponies AD This Esme.” Www.youtube.com, 22 Jan. 2021, www.youtube.com/watch?v=7XEjQD7-mVo&a....
“Estes Park | VISIT DENVER.” Www.denver.org, VISIT DENVER, www.denver.org/head-to-the-mountains/....
Estes Park Visitor Center. “Estes Park Lodging, Restaurants, Events and Things to Do.” Visitestespark.com, Estes Park Visitor Center, 2018, www.visitestespark.com/.
“Explore Mustang Camp – How to Train a Wild Horse or Burro.” Www.mustangcamp.org, www.mustangcamp.org/how-to-train-a-wi.... Accessed 12 Oct. 2023.
Greening, Linda, et al. “Investigating Duration of Nocturnal Ingestive and Sleep Behaviors of Horses Bedded on Straw versus Shavings.” Journal of Veterinary Behavior, vol. 8, no. 2, Mar. 2013, pp. 82–86, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jveb.2012.0....
Grimmett, Dr. Jenni. “Horse Vet Doc Jenni Shows How Equine Veterinarians Bandage a Wound.” Www.youtube.com, 19 May 2020, www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Lm_Dui9TLc&a....
Guardia, Mike. The Combat Diaries. Magnum Books, 2022.
Hart, Daniel A. Horse Care. Panther Publishing LLC, 2022.
“Home | Department of Agriculture: Brand Inspection.” Ag.colorado.gov, ag.colorado.gov/.
“Horse Grooming 101: A Guide for Beginners.” Horseandcountry.tv, horseandcountry.tv/en-us/horse-groomi....
“Horse Health Library.” SmartPak Equine, www.smartpakequine.com/learn-health/h.... Accessed 7 Sept. 2023.
Horse Side Vet Guide. “The Most Comprehensive and Convenient Equine Health Resource.” Horse Side Vet Guide, horsesidevetguide.com/.
“How to Muck out a Stall with Wood Shavings.” Klassen Wood Company, 11 Aug. 2021, www.klassenwoodco.com/blog/how-to-muc....
Hughes, Trevor. “Colorado to Release Gray Wolves: Here’s When, Where and Why.” USA TODAY, 18 Nov. 2023, www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/20....
Kellon VMD, Eleanor, and Dr. Rebecca Gimenez. Dr. Kellon’s Guide to First Aid for Horses. Skyhorse Uuuu-Uuuu, 2005.
Kelly Milner Halls. All about Horses. Rockridge Press, 2021.
Kerson, Nancy. “GENTLING & TRAINING WILD HORSES & BURROS.” Mustangs 4 Us, www.mustangs4us.com/gentling-training.
Kincaid, Mackenzie. The Writer’s Guide to Horses. 2019.
“Learn How to Groom a Horse | Learning Videos for Kids | Baba Blast!” Www.youtube.com, 20 Apr. 2022, youtu.be/E3aKjzSm4_4?si=MpzaxERUaTe-7OpX.
Library of Congress. “World War I Timeline (1914 – 1921).” The Library of Congress, 2015, www.loc.gov/collections/stars-and-str....
“Living with Mountain Lions | Breckenridge, CO.” Www.townofbreckenridge.com, www.townofbreckenridge.com/work/parki....
“M50/M51 Joint Service General Purpose Mask.” Military.com, www.military.com/equipment/m50-m51-jo....
Maury County Veterinary Hospital. “Coggins Testing & Equine Infectious Anemia | What Is EIA.” Www.maurycountyvet.com, www.maurycountyvet.com/site/blog/2022....
Meighan, Debbie. “What Does It Cost? Building Your Dream Horse Stable!” Www.youtube.com, youtu.be/jPiMDulE9_s?si=WUI462iu1JPxMWe-. Accessed 8 Sept. 2023.
Mills, Matt. “THE BASIC CARE of YOUR HORSES HEALTH.” Www.youtube.com, 27 May 2020, www.youtube.com/watch?v=85YUWPpvrZE&a....
“Natural Predators | American Wild Horse Campaign.” Americanwildhorsecampaign.org, americanwildhorsecampaign.org/natural...
Oliver D., Pynn. “Managing Dystocia in the Field.” Veterian Key, 8 July 2016, veteriankey.com/managing-dystocia-in-....
PennState. “Horse Stable Flooring Materials and Drainage.” Extension.psu.edu, extension.psu.edu/horse-stable-floori...
Project Equestrian. “MY NEW WILD MUSTANG ARRIVES! Seeing Her for the FIRST TIME!” Www.youtube.com, 3 Jan. 2023, youtu.be/wNcUrBuea7s?si=DkMGdkl4kLX19Tbh.
Rocky Mountain PBS. “Colorado Experience: The Original Coloradans .” Www.pbs.org, Rocky Mountain PBS , 13 June 2013, www.pbs.org/video/colorado-experience....
Rocky Mountain PSB. “Colorado Experience: Native Horses .” Www.pbs.org, 9 Nov. 2022, www.pbs.org/video/native-horses-zwibqv/.
Samper, Juan, and Tracy Plough. How to Deal with Dystocia and Retained Placenta in the Field. aaep.org/sites/default/files/issues/p....
Smith, Robyn, and Kate Francis. Horse Life : The Ultimate Guide to Caring for and Riding Horses for Kids. Rockbridge Press, 2020.
Staff, AZ Animals. “Native Wildlife in Colorado: A Complete Guide.” AZ Animals, a-z-animals.com/animals/location/north-am....
“Stages of Horse Parturition | Extension Horses.” Horses.extension.org, horses.extension.org/stages-of-horse-....
Surgeons, Rossdales Veterinary. “Dystocia: An Equine Emergency .” Rossdales Veterinary Surgeons, 27 Oct. 2020, www.rossdales.com.
Team, FeedXL Equine Nutrition. “Feeding Sick or Injured Horses.” FeedXL Horse Nutrition Calculator, 18 Nov. 2014, feedxl.com/47-feeding-sick-or-injured...
“The Black Chamber.” National Security Agency/Central Security Service, www.nsa.gov/History/Cryptologic-Histo....
Things to Know, and Amanda Wills. 50 Things to Know about Caring for a Horse on a Budget: Grooming, Cleaning, and Basic Care. 50 Things to Know, 2018.
Thomas, B.SC., Jamie. “Proud Flesh in Horses: Causes, Treatment & Prevention | Mad Barn.” Madbarn.com, 15 Aug. 2023, madbarn.com/proud-flesh-in-horses/.
“Vision in the Equine | Equine Science.” Iowa State University, www.extension.iastate.edu/equine.
Werhahn, Hanna, et al. “Effects of Different Bedding Materials on the Behavior of Horses Housed in Single Stalls.” Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, vol. 30, no. 8, Aug. 2010, pp. 425–31, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jevs.2010.0....
Wilson, Kristen. “Horse Boarding Operations – What Is Involved?” Www.youtube.com, 21 July 2015, youtu.be/HIFO6vSm2xk?si=YmfucFOmZQrUIGF-. Accessed 8 Sept. 2023.
“World War I: Posters, Battlefield Accounts, Newspapers & More World War I Topics Library of Congress.” The Library of Congress, 2015, www.loc.gov/topics/world-war-i/.
December 22, 2023
Holiday PSI-Ops Set Giveaway!
On the fence about PSI books? Love them and wish your friends would read them too? Don’t pass up the chance to get this ebook box set for FREE*!
FREE* ebook box set PSI-Ops Books 1-3 for a very limited time!
PNR
Vendor Links:
Amazon US
Kobo
Google Play
Apple Books
Nook
Contains:
• Act of Mercy
• Act of Surrender
• Act of Submission
Where danger and desire collide!
Act of Mercy:
Duke Marlow, an immortal alpha werewolf and PSI-Operative, whose latest mission is to track down Mercy Deluca. But she’s not the villain she’s made out to be; she’s his destined mate, and together, they uncover a threat that could expose the hidden supernatural world. As they navigate a minefield of deadly secrets, the line between enemy and ally blurs, igniting a flame that could burn the very fabric of their existence.
Act of Surrender:
Ex-operative Dr. James Hagen is plagued by trauma. His life is upended once again by Laney Steele, a spirited cyberpunk whose theories of shapeshifting soldiers lead her into the heart of danger—and into James’s guarded heart. As they piece together a conspiracy, their bond becomes the strongest weapon against the looming shadow ready to engulf them.
Act of Submission:
Haven Carey is on a quest for vengeance, only to collide with Miles “Boomer” Walsh, a cat-shifting PSI-Operative with a fortress around his heart. When Haven’s search for justice turns into an explosive encounter with Boomer, they discover a shared enemy and a mutual craving that refuses to be silenced.
*Offer is not available at all vendors or in all countries. Check the price before purchasing.
December 4, 2023
Have You Discovered Paranormal Women’s Fiction Yet?
If you’re a woman over 40 looking for your next great read, it’s time you tried paranormal women’s fiction. This exciting genre blends elements of paranormal fantasy and supernatural creatures with contemporary women’s fiction focused on female leads over 40.
What Exactly is Paranormal Women’s Fiction?Paranormal women’s fiction features mature supernatural themes centered around strong, complex women over 40 finding love and adventure with vampires, shifters, demons, angels, gods, and otherworldly beings. The stories explore universal themes about starting over, reinventing oneself, finding inner strength, and believing in the power of love from a grounded, grown-up perspective.
Top Author to TryOne of the most popular authors writing stellar paranormal women’s fiction series is Mandy M. Roth. Her Grimm Cove books transport you to a secret town in Maine inhabited by a community of supernatural beings. The series follows members of the Grimm family and their circle of friends, enemies, and allies, including gorgeous alpha male shifters, cunning vampires, wicked villains, and plenty of steamy encounters. If you like complex worlds with rich character development, lots of action, and spice, you’ll devour titles like Cloudly with a Chance of Witchcraft, Hexing with a Chance of Tornadoes, Spellcasting with a Chance of Sprits, Starry with a Chance of Nightshade, Thunder with a Chance of Lovestruck, Wind with a Chance of Wolfsbane.
What Readers Are Saying about PWFAs a woman over 40 myself, I’ve found myself utterly captivated by paranormal women’s fiction. The stories feature age-appropriate heroines I can identify with, and the supernatural elements add an exciting, escapist twist that stimulates the imagination. After reading these books, the real world seems full of intriguing possibilities once more. If life has you feeling stuck in a rut or bored with routine, lose yourself for a few hours in the paranormal women’s fiction genre. With compelling stories centered around empowered females over 40, you just may discover a new reading passion!
So if you’re looking for your next book group read or novels to fill your e-reader, give paranormal women’s fiction a chance.
November 17, 2023
Vampire Romance Novella Gift
As a special thanks to readers, I’m giving away Hunted Holiday in ebook and audiobook format for a limited time! You’ll need to be signed up for my newsletter to download them. 18+ only. Warning, this book is spicy!
Audio
https://BookHip.com/TZMZWQS
Ebook
https://BookHip.com/JCPDJAJ
October 16, 2023
Changes to Ground Training Release
Hey there, a quick update on Ground Training (Immortal Outcasts). The release date is on hold, and pre-orders on Amazon are being canceled (don’t worry, you haven’t been charged).
Ace, our headstrong character, is giving me a creative challenge, and I want his story to unfold naturally. His book has been an uphill battle from the start, and I’ll be honest, COVID hitting the house made it come to a grinding halt.
So, I’m stepping back to refresh and work on something else. I need to give my muse a break from arguing with Ace. Who knows, it just might be exactly what the “muse ordered,” and then I can move forward on the book. All of you know I won’t release a book until it’s the best book I can possibly put out.
I have no idea what I’m going to work on next. It could be a different Ops book, or a new Grimm Cove, or maybe even a Druid or King of Prey book. It might be a Guardians book, or it might be something altogether different. At this point, I’m going to give my muse a moment to breathe.
I plan to keep writing for decades to come, so it’s important I take a second to refill my creative well. I will keep you posted on the future of Ace’s book and when it will be up for purchase again. Know that Ground Training’s title will more than likely change.
October 11, 2023
Design Basics for Authors
As an author, you’ve mastered the art of weaving words into captivating tales. Your ability to write is not the only skill that is essential to making your book successful. You must also have some basic knowledge about good design when it comes to creating marketing materials and attracting an audience. If you’re fortunate enough to be able to afford a designer or have an assistant with design experience, you don’t need this blog post. If you’re like the rest of us and you have to wear many hats, this post is for you.
Understanding Design PrinciplesDesign is more than just picking a pretty color scheme. It involves understanding principles like balance, contrast, alignment, and hierarchy.
Before we jump into the tools, let’s understand some foundational design principles:Balance: Think of your design as a scale. Elements (like text, images, and colors) should be distributed to provide visual stability. There are three types of balance: symmetrical, asymmetrical, or radial. Symmetrical balance involves the use of similar elements arranged evenly on either side of the center of the design. Asymmetrical balance involves the use of different elements on either side of the design but with equal visual weight. Radial balance involves the arrangement of elements in a circular pattern around a central point. When creating your design, it’s essential to choose the type of balance that works best for you.Contrast: Contrast refers to the difference between elements in a design. It’s a way of creating visual interest and drawing the viewer’s attention to certain elements. Contrast can be achieved through the use of different colors, shapes, sizes, fonts, or textures in a design. When using contrast, it’s essential to use it wisely because too much contrast can make your design look busy and overwhelming. By juxtaposing different elements (dark vs. light colors, big vs. small fonts), you can make certain aspects of your design stand out. It’s an effective way to grab attention.Alignment: Alignment refers to the arrangement of elements in a design that creates a sense of order. It is essential to maintain a consistent alignment throughout your design, or it can look chaotic. Creating a grid system can help align your design elements and provide a structure that can be easily maintained. Proper alignment also helps guide the viewer’s eye through the design. Everything in your design should have a visual connection with something else. This creates a clean, sophisticated, and intentional look.Hierarchy: Hierarchy refers to the arrangement of elements in a design that indicates their importance. It can involve using different sizes, colors, or fonts to highlight key elements and guide the viewer’s eye through the design. Establishing a clear hierarchy helps viewers focus on the most important messages in your design. This principle is about guiding the viewer’s eyes. Decide what’s the most important element of your design (e.g., the title of your book) and make it the most dominant feature.Dive Into Design with CanvaCanva is a game-changer. It’s user-friendly, web-based, and offers tons of templates – perfect for book covers, promotional posters, and social media graphics. They have a free option as well as the pro option. IMO the PRO option is totally worth it! Here’s how you can start:
Choose a Template: Browse through Canva’s library and pick one that resonates with your book or brand.Customize: Replace the default text with your details. Upload your images, or choose from Canva’s vast collection.Play with Elements: Experiment with fonts, colors, and layouts. Remember the design principles mentioned above!Download and Share: Once you’re satisfied, download your design or share it directly from Canva.Advanced Designing with PhotoshopFor those willing to climb a steeper learning curve for more intricate designs, Adobe Photoshop is the tool to consider. It provides a broad range of functionalities – from basic photo edits to complex graphic designs. While it might be overwhelming for beginners, numerous tutorials are available online for every feature.
Remember, while Photoshop offers extensive capabilities, it’s essential to keep designs simple, especially if you’re a beginner. Overcomplicating can detract from the message you’re trying to convey.
Practice and FeedbackLike writing, design improves with practice and feedback. Share your designs with friends, family, or fellow authors to get their insights. They might see things you missed or offer a fresh perspective.
Diving into the world of design might seem daunting, but with tools like Canva and the foundational principles in your arsenal, you’re well-equipped to craft compelling visuals. Whether you’re designing a bookmark, a poster, or a social media graphic, remember that design should work hand in hand with your writing so your promotional materials efficiently communicate your message and book brand.
September 29, 2023
The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Between RGB and CMYK for Printed Materials
As an author, if you want to promote your brand or publish your book, it’s crucial to have high-quality printed materials like bookmarks, business cards, or even stickers. However, designing for print is not the same as designing for the web, as the colors may differ between the two. When designing printed materials, you have to consider the color mode: RGB or CMYK. In this guide, we’ll explore the differences and provide tips to ensure your designs look good both on the screen and when printed.
RGB vs. CMYK:RGB stands for Red, Green, and Blue, which are the primary colors needed to create the colors you see on a digital screen. When combined, they create a wide variety of shades. CMYK, on the other hand, stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Key (Black). This is the color mode used in the printing process, where the colors are layered, mixed, and applied to the paper in different amounts to produce the desired colors.
When to use RGB:RGB is perfect for anything that is intended to be viewed on a screen, such as websites, digital ads, or social media graphics. It’s the color mode that is most compatible with digital devices and can reproduce bright and vibrant colors that can grab the viewer’s attention.
When to use CMYK:CMYK is suitable for printing, as it’s the color mode that matches the printer’s inks. It can reproduce more muted and subtle colors and is the color mode that most printers use. It’s important to note that if you design something in RGB and then convert it to CMYK, the colors will shift. Therefore, it’s essential to work in the correct color mode from the beginning.
Tips for designing print-ready materials:Set up your document in CMYK mode before you start designing.
Use a color library that is CMYK-specific to ensure that the colors will turn out the way you expect.
Make sure to use DPI (dots per inch) resolution of at least 300 to ensure the image or graphic is high-quality.
Always review your work as a print-ready PDF before sending it to the printer. This will help you catch any issues with color shifts, orientation, or even spelling or grammar mistakes.
Designing printed materials can be a bit tricky, especially when it comes to choosing the right color mode. RGB is perfect for anything that will be viewed on a screen, while CMYK is the color mode you should use for printed materials. Remember, designing print-ready materials requires extra precautions like setting up your document in the correct mode, using a CMYK-specific color library, and reviewing your work in a print-ready PDF to catch errors. By following these tips, you’ll ensure that your promotional materials, including stickers, turn out the way you want them to.
Canva: Here are some handy tips for using CMYK and exporting it in Canva.
Sticker Mule: Here is a great downloadable CMYK color guide provided by StickerMule
Photoshop and Illustrator: converting from RGB to CMYK
September 24, 2023
29 Years of Real-Life Romance: When Life Mirrors Fiction
Today marks 29 years of wedded bliss (okay, bliss is a stretch because some days are downright painful while others are magical) with my very own leading man, Shane. Or should I say… Brian? 
In the world of romance fiction, we often rely on tropes to craft our stories. These familiar patterns give readers a sense of comfort, knowing that despite the twists and turns, love will always find a way. But who would’ve thought that my own love story would be a delightful blend of some of the most beloved romance tropes?
1. Opposites Attract: Shane and I couldn’t be more different. While I’m lost in the world of words and fictional characters, he’s grounded in reality, always pulling me back when my head’s too far in the clouds. But it’s our differences that make our bond stronger, complementing each other in the most unexpected ways.
2. Mistaken Identity: For the first five weeks of our whirlwind romance, I lovingly called him Brian. And the ever-patient Shane didn’t correct me. Perhaps he enjoyed the mystery, or maybe he just loved hearing the sound of my voice, even if it was calling him by the wrong name. It’s a story we laugh about now, and it’s a testament to his patience and sense of humor.
3. Blind Date Meet-Cute: Ah, the classic blind date setup. Neither of us had high hopes, but fate had other plans. The moment our eyes met, the world faded away, and the rest, as they say, is history.
4. Surprise Pregnancy: Just when we thought we had our life planned out, the universe threw us a curveball. But it was the most beautiful surprise, leading to our first bundle of joy.
5. Small-Town Romance: We’ve built our life in a quaint little town where everyone knows everyone. The kind of place where love stories aren’t just written in books but are lived every day.
6. Instant Love: Some might call it love at first sight. Others might call it destiny. Whatever it was, from the moment we met, we knew we were meant for each other.
Now, with 29 years of being married (30 years as a couple), our love story continues to unfold. We’ve faced challenges, celebrated triumphs, and raised three incredible sons who’ve grown into remarkable men. Through it all, Shane has been my rock, my confidant, and the source of endless laughter.
So, here’s to my real-life hero, Shane (not Brian 
). Thank you for 29 years of love, laughter, and endless romance. Here’s to many more chapters in our never-ending love story.
P.S. To all my readers, remember that sometimes life can be more romantic than fiction. Embrace every moment, cherish every memory, and always believe in the power of love. 
September 21, 2023
The Ultimate Guide to Newsletters for Authors
The Ultimate Guide to Newsletters for AuthorsIn today’s digital age, where social media platforms come and go and algorithms are as unpredictable as the weather, one thing remains constant: the power of a well-curated newsletter. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a content creator, or an author, having a robust newsletter list is like having a golden ticket to sustained engagement and success.
For indie authors, especially in popular genres like romance, newsletters are a vital tool for building loyal readers. But how do you create an email newsletter that fans actually want to open? Here are tips to make your fiction newsletter a must-read:
The Importance of a Good Newsletter ListDirect Access to Your AudienceUnlike social media, where your posts may or may not be seen by your followers, newsletters land directly in your reader’s inbox. This direct line of communication is invaluable for building a loyal community around your brand and books.
Control Over ContentSocial media platforms have limitations on content length, format, and even the kind of content you can post. Newsletters give you the freedom to express yourself in the way you see fit.
Building RelationshipsNewsletters allow you to engage with your readers on a more personal level. By sharing insights, stories, or exclusive content, you can build a stronger emotional connection with your readers.
Analytics and FeedbackMost newsletter services offer detailed analytics, allowing you to understand your audience better. You can see which content resonates the most, what time is best to send your newsletter, and even who your most engaged readers are.
Choose the Right Newsletter ServiceA professional email provider like Mailchimp, ConvertKit, Madmimi, or Substack is essential. Offer sign-up forms on your site, confirm subscribers, and avoid spam filters by verifying your sending domain. This ensures your newsletters consistently reach inboxes.
Here is a list of some of the services available to authors (do your research on each): Mailchimp – Popular and user-friendly, with free tiers available. Lots of templates, automations, and integrations.Constant Contact – Long-running email marketing platform with tools to manage contacts, campaigns, and analytics.ConvertKit – Focused on creators and bloggers, ConvertKit makes it easy to build email sequences. More affordable pricing tiers.AWeber – Robust features for complex email marketing needs, with a focus on automation and integration options.MadMimi – Easy-to-use email marketing service known for its simple editor and automation capabilities. Good option for small businesses.Campaign Monitor – Offers simple and visual email builders with automation and integration capabilities.GetResponse – Features include email designer, autoresponders, automation, landing pages, and webinars.Benchmark Email – Provides hundreds of professional templates and strong analytics. Integrates with many CRMs.MailerLite – Freemium model good for individuals and growing businesses. Easy-to-use drag-and-drop designer.SendPulse – Has a free plan for up to 15,000 subscribers, with good flexibility between bulk and automation emailing.AuthorEmail– created specifically for authorsFlodesk– can create visually stunning newsletter How to Create a Quality Newsletter ListOpt-In FormsPlace opt-in forms strategically on your website. Make sure to offer something valuable in return for the email address, like a free eBook, a discount code, or exclusive content.
Quality Over QuantityIt’s better to have a smaller list of engaged readers than a large list of people who never open your emails. Make sure you’re attracting the right audience by providing targeted and valuable content.
Double Opt-InConsider using a double opt-in process to ensure that the people on your list genuinely want to be there. This adds an extra step, where subscribers have to confirm their email address, but it significantly improves the quality of your list.
Ways to Add Value to a Reader’s InboxMy rule of thumb is to only send out a newsletter when I have something that can add value to my readers’ inboxes. That means, I don’t send a newsletter just for the sake of sending one.
Share the writing journeyGive sneak peeks at your writing routine or upcoming projects. Romance readers love knowing what inspired a new book. Sharing your path as an author makes you more relatable. Just don’t reveal spoilers!
Feature exciting exclusivesOffer exclusive excerpts, deleted scenes, character Q&As, bonus stories, or advance peeks at cover reveals. These special extras make readers feel valued as newsletter subscribers.
Host fun contestsRun monthly contests with prizes like free books, swag, or memberships to insider fan groups on Facebook. Contests equal engagement.
Collect reader submissionsAsk questions and invite fan art, playlists, reviews, cosplay, or other content submissions. Feature their contributions in newsletters to get them involved.
Go behind the scenesGive peeks at your revision process, research trips, bookish events, conferences, or signings. Photos make it come alive. Dish on the realities of the writing life.
Provide added valueConsider author interviews, articles on writing craft, fun polls about characters, book club questions, or even quick recipes tied to your books. Treats beyond your fiction excerpts satisfy and delight.
Promote strategicallyLet readers know when to expect your next newsletter, and keep sign-up forms prominent. Promote on your website, in the front and back of books, and on social media.
Focusing on exclusive, engaging content in a consistent newsletter is one of the best ways for fiction authors to foster fandom and build readership.
Maintaining Your Newsletter ListSegmentationNot all subscribers are the same. Segment your list based on behavior, location, or engagement level to provide more personalized content.
Consistency is KeyWhether you’re sending out newsletters weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly, consistency helps build anticipation among your readers.
Value-Added ContentAlways aim to add value to your readers’ lives. Whether it’s through tips, insights, or exclusive offers, make sure your newsletter is something your readers look forward to.
Creating and maintaining a good newsletter list is not just an add-on to your marketing strategy; it’s a cornerstone. With direct access to your audience, the freedom to create content as you wish, and the ability to build stronger relationships, a well-curated newsletter list can be your most powerful asset.
September 15, 2023
The Thrilling Tension of “Forced Proximity” in Paranormal Romance
Paranormal romance fans can’t get enough of the forced proximity trope’s unique ability to ratchet up the tension between sparring leads. This tried and true setup throws together two supernatural characters from opposing worlds, building conflict and anticipation as their fantastical secrets are revealed.
Many favorite paranormal tales rely on forced proximity scenarios, from vampires shacking up with werewolves to fae folk becoming roommates with demons. Suddenly, being in close quarters with a mysterious supernatural stranger always spells trouble and temptation. Readers love peering behind the curtain as mystical creatures are dragged from their hidden realms and compelled to coexist in the human domain.
When a vampire and shifter have to go undercover together, or a witch and dragon get trapped in an enchanted castle, the forced proximity trope elevates the drama to deliciously unbearable levels. The leads are torn between instinctual distrust and building desire as they navigate each other’s exotic quirks and customs. There’s no escaping the sparks that fly when natural predators like sirens and angels are pushed together by coincidence or conspiracy.
Watching destined enemies uniformly struggle against their attraction is half the fun. The push-and-pull dynamic allows for steamy, slow-burn romantic suspense, the kind paranormal fans crave. When supernaturals already have plenty of secrets to keep, forced proximity scenarios unload even more tantalizing complications. The trope always satisfies paranormal readers’ cravings for complex world-building and heart-pounding chemistry in a cleverly crafted magical package. There’s nothing more irresistible than star-crossed paranormal lovers confined together by chance and learning to seek comfort in each other instead of giving in to fear.
If you can’t get enough of forced proximity scenarios in your paranormal romance reads, be sure to check out Mandy M. Roth’s Immortal Ops and PSI-Ops series. Books like Critical Intelligence, Strategic Vulnerability, Act of Command, and Wolf’s Surrender provide sizzling romantic suspense perfect for fans hooked on this tried and true trope. Let Roth’s imagination sweep you away to a realm where werewolves, vampires, shifters, and more are thrown together in electrifying supernatural showdowns leading to destined romance.
