Rebecca E. Neely's Blog, page 31
October 7, 2015
Meet Violetta Rand, Author & Editor with Soul Mate Publishing
Today, I'm thrilled to host author and editor with Soul Mate Publishing, Violetta Rand. Welcome!Please tell us a little bit about yourself, and how and why you began writing.
Thanks Rebecca! I appreciate you including me on your blog. I was raised in Corpus Christi, Texas, and spent my childhood reading, writing, and playing soccer. After meeting my husband in New England, we moved to Alaska where I studied environmental science and policy as an undergraduate before attending graduate school. I then spent nearly a decade working as an environmental scientist, specializing in soil and water contamination and environmental assessments.
Some readers may not know you’re both an editor and writer with Soul Mate Publishing. Please tell us what you enjoy most about each. How does each give you insights into the other?
I’m triple blessed, I also have a multiple book contract with Random House. So I juggle three jobs really. Writing is my first passion, so having the opportunity to publish with Soul Mate (where my first book released) changed my life. That contract is like your first kiss or love, that special feeling stays forever.
As for editorial duties, the greatest pleasure is reading/choosing manuscripts and writers I feel show promise. Then getting to mentor them and be part of the process of seeing that first book come to life.
In combination, writing and editing makes me a better author.
Obviously, readers have a vast number of choices in books. Why do you feel readers will enjoy your stories?
For my unique perspective on life in general. If we’re focused on contemporary romances, I write with a hard-hitting realism, and as some have said, a masculine voice. The same style carries over to my historicals.
What would you most like people to know about you, and your writing?
I’m involved in multiple projects right now. My MC series, High Stakes, launches in December with Random House. I’m also part of a Viking box set releasing in March and another box set through my collaborative historical blog, Embracing Romance in February.
On October 29th, Kathryn Le Veque is launching her De Wolfe World through Kindle Worlds on Amazon. I’m one of twenty something writers contributing fan fiction novellas for the project (mine is Never Cry De Wolfe, a contemporary romance).
My next release is on October 20, Loving Lucas (a Lies and Leather novel) a romance about a hot cop and motorcycle racing. And finally, I have a new Viking series debuting in 2016.
So a crazy schedule, but I couldn’t be happier!
As an author, how do you pay it forward?
By making myself available to writers and readers. The best advice I ever received from a former boss—never forget where you came from. We all start on the bottom rung, so helping someone reach that next level is both my moral duty and pleasure.
What is the single best piece of advice you would give to another author about the craft of writing, about marketing, and/or the writing life?
Unless you’re doing this as a hobby, prepare to work harder and longer than you ever have. This writing thing isn’t easy. It takes talent, dedication, patience, a willingness to learn, and thick skin.
The one thing we can all count on is change. How do you plan to continue to evolve as a writer?
By writing what I love. Hours behind the computer is the only way to grow as a writer.
What do you feel are the greatest challenges facing authors and editors today?
Accountability. This ties in with that thick skin thing. Be prepared to accept criticism from your editor, agent, and readers. If you can, and are willing to improve in the areas suggested, then you really have a chance at success.
Loving Lucas: Lies and Leather NovelReleases from Random House on October 20, 2015
Twenty-one-year-old Karlie Augustine is a survivor. She’s smart and tough, but she’s in too deep with a bad boyfriend who isn’t above breaking her spirit—or her body. Luckily, help arrives in the form of a leather-clad, motorcycle-riding hunk on the right side of the law. Lucas Lafontaine is pure muscle, a Corpus Christi cop who ignites something primal deep within Karlie. And when he offers her room and board in exchange for housekeeping, she finally starts to feel safe again.
As their arrangement turns deliciously decadent, Lucas gets hooked on Karlie’s killer body and fighting spirit. He wants to heal the pain he sees behind her eyes, but to protect her he needs to keep her close, especially now that her psycho ex won’t take a hint. Even as Lucas fights his own battle for custody of his young son, he knows that what he’s found with Karlie is real—and that he’d do anything to protect the woman he wants to take to the finish line.
CONNECT WITH VIOLETTA
Author website: http://www.violettarandromance.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/violettarandromance?ref=bookmarksTwitter: https://twitter.com/ViolettaRand
October 5, 2015
Fall, Food & Community
To kick off fall, I’m making the very meatballs I helped my father make, so many times, so many years ago in the restaurant. Though it’s long gone, that hallowed place will forever be a part of my soul, as will the times I shared with my father.
As a writer, I find myself drawing on that sense of community, again and again as a theme, sometimes even unconsciously. I think all of us are seeking that in one form or another, and food is just one way, and a fun way, to find it. Through food, my characters are striving to create community, just as I am with my meatballs. Those meatballs aren’t just dinner, they’re memories, and pay homage to those who taught and shared. They keep me connected to my roots, my family, and myself.
Here are the recipes for homemade meatballs, and spaghetti sauce. As you can see by reading over the ingredients for the sauce, it makes a lot! I’ll be having people over, preparing care packages and maybe even freezing some.
In my blog last week about the chaos of moving, I related my woes to Frances, in Under the Tuscan Sun. Incidentally, I love the scenes in which Frances is cooking for all of the contractors – beautiful community J
NOTE: You'll notice that there are no specific cooking instructions for the sauce. I include in the caption, simmer until it 'feels good', which is a phrase I oft heard growing up in relation to cooking. It means you can't hurt this sauce - enjoy!
PLEASE SHARE: How are you creating community through food? What favorite recipes bring back good memories for you? What books have you read that have fun food scenes in them? Let me hear from you!
FRONT OF SAUCE RECIPE CARD: This is my Mom's handwriting.
BACK OF SAUCE RECIPE CARD - Simmer everything together slowly for 5 -6 hours, all day, or until it feels good. Sauce will reduce. Remove bones before eating. Enjoy!
FRONT OF MEATBALL RECIPE CARD - This is my handwriting - and as you can see by the state of the recipe card, it's well loved!
BACK OF MEATBALL RECIPE CARD
Join my mailing list & read about cool stuff like romantic suspense, great books and the occasional recipe.
You can also claim your free sneak peek of The Keeper, my new paranormal romance coming soon from Soul Mate Publishing. I’ll never share your email address and that’s a promise.
Rebecca E. Neely is an author, lover of spoon rings, diners, the Steelers & great reads.
October 2, 2015
“Fall Into Reading” with Author Kacey Hammel #FallReading #bookboost @books_n_pearls
Today, it’s my pleasure to host author Kacey Hammell, as part of Books N’ Pearls Author services blog hop. A great big thank you to Nicole at Books N’ Pearls for coordinating such a great event!
Be sure to check out all the stops on the hop – links are below!
Guarding Midnight by Kacey Hammell
Canadian Muscle 1
Contemporary/Suspense/Erotic/Romance
ISBN:
978-1-77233-292-6
Publisher: Evernight
Publishing
A Night Owl Reviews TOP PICK!
“Guarding Midnight, in my opinion, is a book that will touch your soul with the conception of deep abiding friendship, love and sparks of raw, carnal energy. This makes Guarding Midnight a keeper. I anticipate the hot, spicy, and thrilling ride will continue as Ms. Hammell spins her magical writing skills to keep me hooked and up all night.” Top Pick, Night Owl Reviews
Canadian Muscle …
When Desires Need Protecting.
No one knows sacrifice better than former Army Sergeant Gavin Bennett. He’s witnessed firsthand the emotional, physical and mental toll of being caught in the crossfire. Being a bouncer-slash-bodyguard may not be Gavin’s dream job, but he’s willing to do just about anything to help out family. When Gavin reports for his first day of work, he quickly discovers a woman who threatens to crack his legendary cool.
Shree Walker is on the run from a dark past she tried to shut away. Battered and broken, a happily ever after doesn’t exist for her. Ready to start fresh with a new life in a new city, she is happy dancing at the Vixen Club. She’d be even happier without the presence of the prickly new bouncer who won’t let anyone or anything get past his carefully guarded defenses. He’s a distraction she doesn’t need. And a temptation she can’t resist.
When Shree is kidnapped by the criminal mastermind hell-bent on taking the club at any cost, Gavin has to make a decision. Hold tight and continue to keep Shree at arm’s length. Or break down his walls and take a chance on something more powerful than them both: Love.
Evernight Publishing
Smashwords
Excerpt © Kacey
Hammell, 2015
Without pause, he hurried after the tantalizing hips swaying and maneuvering around the crowd. Men and women called out how amazing she’d been tonight. Shree nodded and waved as she marched by them all.
He liked an independent woman, but she needed to understand he wasn’t kidding about her not going anywhere alone. Especially after placing a call to his buddy at the FBI to learn more about this Hagen fellow. What he’d learned from Frank Shaw didn’t impress him. Hagen was one of the bureau’s most wanted criminals. Nothing stuck to this guy. Every open and shut case dissolved quickly, no matter how much evidence was against him. Witnesses changed their minds or went missing, and drug dealers were willing to serve life to keep mum about who their supplier was. It was only a matter of time before Hagen brought down the hammer on Charlie’s club. The FBI now knew of Gavin’s appearance at the club and was willing to work with him to bring Hagen in. Whatever it took.
Frank was coming to town as soon as he could arrange it. He pushed through the side door and followed her out into the warm evening air. “Shree, wait.”
She stopped at the bottom of the enclosed stairwell and turned swiftly, her legs locked in a fighting stance. Surprised, he also couldn’t help but admire her. She’d been trained to protect herself. Smart woman.
“I’m just upstairs, Gavin. Really, I’ll be fine.”
He moved closer and leaned against the wall. “Not your choice. You’re stuck with me.”
She harrumphed. “Don’t you think your girlfriend will get annoyed with you following me around all the time?”
Gavin grinned. So she’d given his relationship status some thought. Nice. “Girlfriend?”
She shifted and grabbed the railing. “Charlie’s my boss. I understand she’s trying to protect me, but to have her boyfriend follow me around at all hours of the day and night…” She shook her head. “I wouldn’t like it much if my boyfriend was in the company of another woman so much.”
“That’s a good point, but not relevant. And Charlie knows I’ll be all over you twenty-four-seven if I need to. She’s okay with that.”
Shree’s eyes widened. “If you have an open relationship with her, that’s your business, but don’t drag me into any sick games. Goodnight.”
As she turned and ascended the stairs, he grabbed her wrist. “Hey, come on. Wait.”
She turned her head and glared at him.
“Charlie and I are friends. We’re not in a relationship. Her brother is one of my oldest friends.”
Her arm relaxed in his hold. Gavin took it as a good sign that she was attracted to him and moved up onto the first step. Standing on the fourth plank, she towered over him, but it put him at perfect eye level with her tits. He fought the need to ogle at them. Smoky black abysses stared at him, and his gaze clung to hers. Seconds rolled by. His gut clenched and his blood heated. She drew him in—the loneliness he saw behind those eyes, the air of solitude, had him eager to know more. He rarely cared about the many layers of a woman, but he anticipated there was a lot to Shree. She intrigued him. Hell, he barely knew her. Yet, very little seemed as important as getting to know what made her tick. What made her laugh, get up in the mornings, and even what could piss her off. And he definitely wanted to know what made her hot and wet.
Her pulse beat fast beneath his thumb. His own accelerated as she shifted to face him and descended a step. Her breath quickened in the silence around them. “Shree,” he whispered. He caressed her elbow as he advanced another step, bringing them eye-to-eye.
She swallowed hard, nostrils flaring. Gavin tightened his hold on her wrist. Her breath hitched and she swayed as he moved in closer. He acted fast and gripped her hips. Her hands wandered up onto his shoulders, bringing her in closer. Shree’s head dipped toward him slowly and Gavin tightened his fingers on her skin, anxious to pull her in even more, but he held back to let her make the first move.
A door slammed behind them, the boom cutting through the air. He jerked and glanced to his right at a couple walking to their car.
He turned back to her as she scurried up a step away from him. “No. No, this can’t happen. Goodnight, Gavin,” she stated, then turned and fled up the remaining steps.
Gavin held onto the railing and cursed whoever interrupted the moment.
Book Trailer link:
Watch the Guarding Midnight Book
Trailer :
Book Trailer Credits to: Beckey at In the Pages of a Good Book
Avid
Reader. Romance Author. Redhead…
Canadian-born
author Kacey Hammell is definitely a book-a-holic. A romance reader from a
young age, she fell in love with happily ever afters. These days, as a multi-published erotic romance author, she enjoys
adding a lot of heat, sass, and emotion to the many genres she writes.
A mom of three, Kacey has made certain each of her children know the value
of the written word and the adventures they could escape on by becoming
book-a-holics in their own right. She lives her own happily ever after
with her perfect hero in Ontario, Canada, and is a true romantic at heart.
Connect with Kacey…
Website / Newsletter / Facebook / Facebook Reader Group / Twitter / Amazon / Goodreads / Pinterest / Instagram
GIVEAWAY
Dozens of Prizes. Visit
the participating blogs (shown below) to comment for your contest entries.
If the Links to the Fall
into Reading Posts do not appear below, please visit here for more featured
authors: http://wp.me/p5p8oj-1qq
An InLinkz Link-up
a Rafflecopter giveaway
http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/b6938c4245/
"Fall Into Reading" with Author Kacey Hammel #FallReading #bookboost @books_n_pearls
Today, it's my pleasure to host author Kacey Hammell, as part of Books N' Pearls Author services blog hop. A great big thank you to Nicole at Books N' Pearls for coordinating such a great event!
Be sure to check out all the stops on the hop - links are below!
Guarding Midnight by Kacey Hammell
Canadian Muscle 1
Contemporary/Suspense/Erotic/RomanceISBN:
978-1-77233-292-6Publisher: Evernight
Publishing
A Night Owl Reviews TOP PICK! “Guarding Midnight, in my opinion, is a book that will touch your soul with the conception of deep abiding friendship, love and sparks of raw, carnal energy. This makes Guarding Midnight a keeper. I anticipate the hot, spicy, and thrilling ride will continue as Ms. Hammell spins her magical writing skills to keep me hooked and up all night.” Top Pick, Night Owl Reviews
Canadian Muscle … When Desires Need Protecting.
No one knows sacrifice better than former Army Sergeant Gavin Bennett. He’s witnessed firsthand the emotional, physical and mental toll of being caught in the crossfire. Being a bouncer-slash-bodyguard may not be Gavin’s dream job, but he’s willing to do just about anything to help out family. When Gavin reports for his first day of work, he quickly discovers a woman who threatens to crack his legendary cool.
Shree Walker is on the run from a dark past she tried to shut away. Battered and broken, a happily ever after doesn’t exist for her. Ready to start fresh with a new life in a new city, she is happy dancing at the Vixen Club. She’d be even happier without the presence of the prickly new bouncer who won’t let anyone or anything get past his carefully guarded defenses. He’s a distraction she doesn’t need. And a temptation she can’t resist.
When Shree is kidnapped by the criminal mastermind hell-bent on taking the club at any cost, Gavin has to make a decision. Hold tight and continue to keep Shree at arm’s length. Or break down his walls and take a chance on something more powerful than them both: Love.
Evernight Publishing
Amazon – US / Canada / UK
B&N (Nook)
aRe
Kobo Store
Bookstrand
iTunes
Smashwords
Excerpt © Kacey
Hammell, 2015
Without pause, he hurried after the tantalizing hips swaying and maneuvering around the crowd. Men and women called out how amazing she’d been tonight. Shree nodded and waved as she marched by them all.
He liked an independent woman, but she needed to understand he wasn’t kidding about her not going anywhere alone. Especially after placing a call to his buddy at the FBI to learn more about this Hagen fellow. What he’d learned from Frank Shaw didn’t impress him. Hagen was one of the bureau’s most wanted criminals. Nothing stuck to this guy. Every open and shut case dissolved quickly, no matter how much evidence was against him. Witnesses changed their minds or went missing, and drug dealers were willing to serve life to keep mum about who their supplier was. It was only a matter of time before Hagen brought down the hammer on Charlie’s club. The FBI now knew of Gavin’s appearance at the club and was willing to work with him to bring Hagen in. Whatever it took.
Frank was coming to town as soon as he could arrange it. He pushed through the side door and followed her out into the warm evening air. “Shree, wait.”
She stopped at the bottom of the enclosed stairwell and turned swiftly, her legs locked in a fighting stance. Surprised, he also couldn’t help but admire her. She’d been trained to protect herself. Smart woman.
“I’m just upstairs, Gavin. Really, I’ll be fine.”
He moved closer and leaned against the wall. “Not your choice. You’re stuck with me.”
She harrumphed. “Don’t you think your girlfriend will get annoyed with you following me around all the time?”
Gavin grinned. So she’d given his relationship status some thought. Nice. “Girlfriend?”
She shifted and grabbed the railing. “Charlie’s my boss. I understand she’s trying to protect me, but to have her boyfriend follow me around at all hours of the day and night…” She shook her head. “I wouldn’t like it much if my boyfriend was in the company of another woman so much.”
“That’s a good point, but not relevant. And Charlie knows I’ll be all over you twenty-four-seven if I need to. She’s okay with that.”
Shree’s eyes widened. “If you have an open relationship with her, that’s your business, but don’t drag me into any sick games. Goodnight.”
As she turned and ascended the stairs, he grabbed her wrist. “Hey, come on. Wait.”
She turned her head and glared at him.
"Charlie and I are friends. We’re not in a relationship. Her brother is one of my oldest friends.”
Her arm relaxed in his hold. Gavin took it as a good sign that she was attracted to him and moved up onto the first step. Standing on the fourth plank, she towered over him, but it put him at perfect eye level with her tits. He fought the need to ogle at them. Smoky black abysses stared at him, and his gaze clung to hers. Seconds rolled by. His gut clenched and his blood heated. She drew him in—the loneliness he saw behind those eyes, the air of solitude, had him eager to know more. He rarely cared about the many layers of a woman, but he anticipated there was a lot to Shree. She intrigued him. Hell, he barely knew her. Yet, very little seemed as important as getting to know what made her tick. What made her laugh, get up in the mornings, and even what could piss her off. And he definitely wanted to know what made her hot and wet.
Her pulse beat fast beneath his thumb. His own accelerated as she shifted to face him and descended a step. Her breath quickened in the silence around them. “Shree,” he whispered. He caressed her elbow as he advanced another step, bringing them eye-to-eye.
She swallowed hard, nostrils flaring. Gavin tightened his hold on her wrist. Her breath hitched and she swayed as he moved in closer. He acted fast and gripped her hips. Her hands wandered up onto his shoulders, bringing her in closer. Shree’s head dipped toward him slowly and Gavin tightened his fingers on her skin, anxious to pull her in even more, but he held back to let her make the first move.
A door slammed behind them, the boom cutting through the air. He jerked and glanced to his right at a couple walking to their car.
He turned back to her as she scurried up a step away from him. “No. No, this can’t happen. Goodnight, Gavin,” she stated, then turned and fled up the remaining steps.
Gavin held onto the railing and cursed whoever interrupted the moment.
Book Trailer link:
Watch the Guarding Midnight Book
Trailer :
Book Trailer Credits to: Beckey at In the Pages of a Good Book
Avid
Reader. Romance Author. Redhead… Canadian-born
author Kacey Hammell is definitely a book-a-holic. A romance reader from a
young age, she fell in love with happily ever afters. These days, as a multi-published erotic romance author, she enjoys
adding a lot of heat, sass, and emotion to the many genres she writes.
A mom of three, Kacey has made certain each of her children know the value
of the written word and the adventures they could escape on by becoming
book-a-holics in their own right. She lives her own happily ever after
with her perfect hero in Ontario, Canada, and is a true romantic at heart.
Connect with Kacey… Website / Newsletter / Facebook / Facebook Reader Group / Twitter / Amazon / Goodreads / Pinterest / Instagram
GIVEAWAYDozens of Prizes. Visit
the participating blogs (shown below) to comment for your contest entries.If the Links to the Fall
into Reading Posts do not appear below, please visit here for more featured
authors: http://wp.me/p5p8oj-1qq
An InLinkz Link-up
a Rafflecopter giveaway
http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/b6938c4245/
September 30, 2015
Meet Susan Helene Gottfried, Editor, Author & Entrepreneur
Please tell us a little bit about yourself, and how and why you began writing.
Thanks for having me today Rebecca! I'm happy to be here. Well. Let’s see. I’m a single mom of two. I used to play ice hockey but I broke (well, they told me it should be physically impossible for me to ice skate, which left us all staring blankly at each other because, well, I can ice skate, and not too badly), so now I cheer on my son’s Ultimate frisbee teams from the sidelines. I am a foster mom for cats and kittens through my local no-kill shelter, and the shelter recently awarded me the Presidential Lifetime Award for my volunteer work with them. Pretty slick!
Why I began writing? I joke that it’s my birth defect (hey, we’ve all got at least one), but the truth isn’t that far off. This is how I’m built. Even if it’s supposed to be physically impossible for me to ice skate.
Obviously, readers have a vast number of choices in books. Why do you feel readers will enjoy your stories?
My fiction, up to this point, has been Rock Fiction – what happens when music and fiction collides. The marital discord in my life and its fallout caused my muse to fall silent over the past few years, but I’ve been writing again recently and am going to head into new directions. Which doesn’t answer your question, except to say that my currently published works are all Rock Fiction, so if you like your bad boy rockers, you’ll love the works in the Trevolution.
What would you most like people to know about you, and your writing?
What I most want people to say when they talk about me is how good my books are. That seems cocky, even for me, but that’s what I aspire to. Being known for creating really good characters who resonate with you.
As an author, how do you pay it forward?
Lots of ways, actually! I pay the bills by working as a freelance editor for authors of fiction (look at that careful wording; I edit back cover copy and bios and newsletters… IF you write fiction. And you don’t have to have me edit your books, either, if your editor won’t do your newsletter.). But I do more than that! I have two promotional offerings on my main blog at West of Mars (http://westofmars.com), my author/editor website. They are free unless you want a certain date.
And for my fellow Rock Fiction fans, I run The Rock of Pages (http://therock ofpages.com), where it’s Rocktober all the time. My friend Jett and I cover nothing but Rock Fiction over there, so if you are a fan or a reader or a writer, come on over. We’re always glad to reblog reviews or interviews or guest blog posts, or write us something new. We do this because we love Rock Fiction and want to be THE site on the Internet for it.
What is the single best piece of advice you would give to another author about the craft of writing, about marketing, and/or the writing life?
Single best piece? Hire me to edit your book.
Oh, wait. You’re serious. Okay, then. DO hire an editor, even if it’s not me. Hire someone who will help you elevate your craft and who will partner with you to make your book its best. Yes, even if you’re going to submit to literary agents and publishing houses. You need that objective eye, and I need to pay my mortgage. So, yeah. Hire me.
The one thing we can all count on is change. How do you plan to continue to evolve as a writer?
I don’t think you can plan to evolve. If we could, wouldn’t more of us evolve lethal bacteria like the komodo dragon? Wouldn’t we evolve wings so we don’t have to sit in traffic?
Really, the goal is to always push yourself, even into uncomfortable areas. Open yourself up to criticism and really listen to what’s being said. It’s not always the words being spoken.
What do you feel are the greatest challenges facing authors today?
The greatest challenges? Being discovered. There’s so much out there right now, and so many authors game the system in order to pad their income. I’ve always believed that the cream rises to the top, but we’ve seen over and over that I’m an idealistic fool, at least in this regard.
One other thing I’d love to do in my copious spare time (ha!) is work on building a community for many of us writers who are also readers and who want to help each other out. I have only vague ideas right now, so keep an eye on West of Mars and join what’ll be fun. I only do things that are fun. And that others are free to join in with.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Can I be crass and promote my short story, Broken ? It’s a 99c download and it’s one of my favorite pieces of my own writing. It’s edgy and angry and not for the faint of heart (or family friendly) among us, but if you like gritty, there. Blatant self-promotion. And see? It didn’t hurt you much at all. Not nearly as much as it hurts when I ice skate. Now if I could only figure out why that is…
BROKEN
For T and the rest of Ice Cubes in Hell, it's a routine night backstage after their set, opening for the notorious Vanessa Kontempt. The party's in full swing when T walks in, but she's not in the mood. Not tonight. Things spiral downward when she finds some groupies raiding her stage clothes. One breaks the heel off her favorite boot, and as T confronts the band's tour manager about the destruction, secrets are revealed. Secrets which might tear the band apart … or bring them closer.
Get it on Amazon
CONNECT WITH SUSAN
Amazon Author Page http://www.amazon.com/Susan-Helene-Gottfried/e/B0047NXP1M
Blog http://westofmars.com/blog/
About http://westofmars.com/about/susan-helene-gottfried/
Twitter https://twitter.com/WestofMars
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/WestofMars?fref=ts
September 28, 2015
Moving, Movies & Writing
I’m sure there’a a self help book out there somewhere, or an organization guru that could help me, but my solution so far has been to shut the door on my new office (yay!) and keep writing.
Which brings me to my next point.
At times, writing a novel can feel a whole lot like moving. Even if you’ve got a plan. Even if you’ve got an outline.
The trick I think, is to embrace the chaos. (alternate words for chaos - yes, writing this post has prompted me to consult a thesaurus. These are my favorite: mobocracy, holy mess, lawlessness, pandemonium.)
And I do. Most days. (I also turn to the methods I've outlined in this post, 5+ Methods I'm Using to Writer Faster.)
My desk after a busy day in the writing caveAmid said 'mobocracy', a quote from one of my favorite movies, Under the Tuscan Sun came to mind. "Pick one room and make it yours. Go slowly through the house. Be polite, introduce yourself so it can introduce itself to you."Such it is – not just with a new house, but I think, sometimes, with characters and plots and stories. Perhaps I, as the writer, need to take time to introduce myself so they can introduce themselves to me. Avoiding decision fatigue is key, which Monica Leonelle discusses brilliantly in her book, Write Better, Faster: How To Triple Your Writing Speed and Write More Every Day.
And just as Frances had to find her way back to writing, I sometimes find I have to take a step back to gain perspective, and know that some things reveal themselves in their own time.
BTW, I’ve just added Under the Tuscan Sun by Frances Mayes to my TBR pile. Though I’ve seen the movie at least a dozen times, I’m hoping by reading the book, I’ll stumble across some more pearls of wisdom as I unearth from the chaos surrounding me.I'll leave you with one more Under The Tuscan Sun quote, maybe even my favorite: “Never lose your childish enthusiasm, and things will come your way.” ~ Katherine
Now, I've just got to figure out a way to apply that enthusiasm to my unpacked boxes!
Join my mailing list & read about cool stuff like romantic suspense and great books. You can also claim your free sneak peek of The Keeper, my new paranormal romance coming soon from Soul Mate Publishing. I’ll never share your email address and that’s a promise.
Rebecca E. Neely is an author, freelance writer, lover of spoon rings, diners, the Steelers & great reads.
September 21, 2015
5+ Methods I’m Using to Write Faster
Today, I’m sharing the changes I’m instituting to my writing process, after reading both of these titles by author Monica Leonelle:
Write Better, Faster: How To Triple YourWriting Speed and Write More Every Day (Growth Hacking For Storytellers #1)
The 8-Minute Writing Habit: Create aConsistent Writing Habit That Works With Your Busy Lifestyle (Growth HackingFor Storytellers)
Fellow Soul Mate Publishing author Beth Carter first brought the titles to my attention – thank you Beth!
Quite simply, I don’t think there’s a writer alive who doesn’t want to write faster, and for those of you who already do, I applaud you!
While I’m nowhere near Ms. Leonelle’s amazing stats, I want to share the points that have resonated with me the most, as I work toward implementing some changes I’m really excited about.
1. Know what you’re going to write about before you ever sit down to write
This deceptively simple step – and not taking heed – has bitten me time and again. To produce, I have to be focused. To be focused, I have to know what I’m writing about and not waste time by re-reading, finding the scene, referring back to another, etc. Before I know it an hour has passed and I’m staring at the 100 words I’ve managed to get down.
2. Change it up
Leonelle challenges the concept of ‘butt in chair, hands on keyboard.’ Many writers have full time jobs, children, and a host of other responsibilities. The truth is, there is no perfect time to write, no perfect place, no perfect set of circumstances – and thinking that there is limits us tremendously. If I know what I’m going to write, as described above, then I can take advantage of half an hour here, 15 minutes there.
3. Go mobile
In our electronic crazed world, there’s an ap for everything. And a really cool one is Dragon dictation. Building on ideas #1 and #2 above, when I’m sitting in the car pool line, or taking a walk, I can get ideas down. #empowered
4. Staying focused
After I know what I’m going to write, I employ the Pomodoro method, which means writing for a specified amount of time, then taking a short break. Go to http://e.ggtimer.com/ to use the timer on your computer, versus your Smart phone, which is a discussion on distraction all its own. In her books, Leonelle recommends both a 25 minute/5 minute period, as well as an 8 minute writing sprint. But it all comes down to what works for you.
5. What are you writing?
Leonelle brings up what I consider a fascinating point: she identifies if she’ll be working on dialogue, internal monologue or description; she feels each takes a particular mindset, and that writers tend to gravitate to one or the other more.
And, dare I take this one step further, by correlating author of Techniques of the Selling Writer Dwight Swain’s ingenious approach, of scene and sequel. Scene is based on Goal, Conflict and Disaster (G, C, D). Sequels are based on Reaction, Dilemma and Decision (R, D, D). It seems to follow that internal monologue more closely relates to a sequel, and that dialogue is tied into the Scene. I tend to work in dashes of description versus chunks, and to my way of thinking, it appears in both Scene and Sequel.
The concepts of Scene and Sequel keep me on track with my writing in myriad ways, including with the story elements of pacing, structure, plot and character.
Also, here are some miscellaneous actions I’ve taken to streamline my process:
The 8 minute method I’m using during the week, The 25 minute method I’m using for the days of the week I’m not at the day job.
I’ve honed my outline in Scrivener.
I’ve created a timeline in Excel, numbering the scenes, trying to get my arms around a word count before I ever begin.
As a freelancer, I was often held to strict word counts. I know how long it takes me to write a 900-1,000 word article; I’m trying to apply the same concepts to writing fiction, and not ‘overwrite’.
Turning off the internal editor – I’m making great strides in this area. And hands down, I have dictation to thank for that.
Whatever methods you use to craft your story, I urge you to embrace change. And I applaud Ms. Leonelle for sharing her advice and techniques. Thank you!
CAVEAT: By no means do I endorse sacrificing craft or quality for speed, or quantity. I firmly believe no matter what, there are some parts of a story that are going to take longer to write, and that’s that. But there’s no reason we can’t try to find ways of streamlining the other parts.
What tips do you have to share about your writing process? What’s worked for you? What hasn’t?
Join my mailing list & read about cool stuff like romantic suspense and great books. You can also claim your free sneak peek of The Keeper, my new paranormal romance coming soon from Soul Mate Publishing.
I’ll never share your email address and that’s a promise.
Rebecca E. Neely is an author, freelance writer, lover of spoon rings, diners, the Steelers & great reads.
5+ Methods I'm Using to Write Faster
Today, I’m sharing the changes I’m instituting to my writing process, after reading both of these titles by author Monica Leonelle:Write Better, Faster: How To Triple YourWriting Speed and Write More Every Day (Growth Hacking For Storytellers #1)
The 8-Minute Writing Habit: Create aConsistent Writing Habit That Works With Your Busy Lifestyle (Growth HackingFor Storytellers)
Fellow Soul Mate Publishing author Beth Carter first brought the titles to my attention – thank you Beth!
Quite simply, I don’t think there’s a writer alive who doesn’t want to write faster, and for those of you who already do, I applaud you!
While I’m nowhere near Ms. Leonelle’s amazing stats, I want to share the points that have resonated with me the most, as I work toward implementing some changes I’m really excited about.
1. Know what you’re going to write about before you ever sit down to writeThis deceptively simple step – and not taking heed – has bitten me time and again. To produce, I have to be focused. To be focused, I have to know what I’m writing about and not waste time by re-reading, finding the scene, referring back to another, etc. Before I know it an hour has passed and I’m staring at the 100 words I’ve managed to get down.
2. Change it upLeonelle challenges the concept of ‘butt in chair, hands on keyboard.’ Many writers have full time jobs, children, and a host of other responsibilities. The truth is, there is no perfect time to write, no perfect place, no perfect set of circumstances – and thinking that there is limits us tremendously. If I know what I’m going to write, as described above, then I can take advantage of half an hour here, 15 minutes there.
3. Go mobileIn our electronic crazed world, there’s an ap for everything. And a really cool one is Dragon dictation. Building on ideas #1 and #2 above, when I’m sitting in the car pool line, or taking a walk, I can get ideas down. #empowered
4. Staying focused
After I know what I’m going to write, I employ the Pomodoro method, which means writing for a specified amount of time, then taking a short break. Go to http://e.ggtimer.com/ to use the timer on your computer, versus your Smart phone, which is a discussion on distraction all its own. In her books, Leonelle recommends both a 25 minute/5 minute period, as well as an 8 minute writing sprint. But it all comes down to what works for you.5. What are you writing?Leonelle brings up what I consider a fascinating point: she identifies if she’ll be working on dialogue, internal monologue or description; she feels each takes a particular mindset, and that writers tend to gravitate to one or the other more.
And, dare I take this one step further, by correlating author of Techniques of the Selling Writer Dwight Swain’s ingenious approach, of scene and sequel. Scene is based on Goal, Conflict and Disaster (G, C, D). Sequels are based on Reaction, Dilemma and Decision (R, D, D). It seems to follow that internal monologue more closely relates to a sequel, and that dialogue is tied into the Scene. I tend to work in dashes of description versus chunks, and to my way of thinking, it appears in both Scene and Sequel.
The concepts of Scene and Sequel keep me on track with my writing in myriad ways, including with the story elements of pacing, structure, plot and character.
Also, here are some miscellaneous actions I’ve taken to streamline my process:
The 8 minute method I’m using during the week, The 25 minute method I’m using for the days of the week I’m not at the day job.
I’ve honed my outline in Scrivener.
I’ve created a timeline in Excel, numbering the scenes, trying to get my arms around a word count before I ever begin.
As a freelancer, I was often held to strict word counts. I know how long it takes me to write a 900-1,000 word article; I’m trying to apply the same concepts to writing fiction, and not ‘overwrite’.
Turning off the internal editor – I’m making great strides in this area. And hands down, I have dictation to thank for that.
Whatever methods you use to craft your story, I urge you to embrace change. And I applaud Ms. Leonelle for sharing her advice and techniques. Thank you!
CAVEAT: By no means do I endorse sacrificing craft or quality for speed, or quantity. I firmly believe no matter what, there are some parts of a story that are going to take longer to write, and that's that. But there's no reason we can't try to find ways of streamlining the other parts.
What tips do you have to share about your writing process? What’s worked for you? What hasn’t?
Join my mailing list & read about cool stuff like romantic suspense and great books. You can also claim your free sneak peek of The Keeper, my new paranormal romance coming soon from Soul Mate Publishing. I’ll never share your email address and that’s a promise.
Rebecca E. Neely is an author, freelance writer, lover of spoon rings, diners, the Steelers & great reads.
September 16, 2015
Meet Debby Gilbert, Founder & Editor, Soul Mate Publishing
Today, I'm thrilled to host Debby Gilbert, founder of Soul Mate Publishing (SMP). Debby is also proud to serve as an editor for SMP, and today she's sharing why she loves to not only edit, but why she loves the business. Welcome Debby!Please tell us a little bit about yourself, and how and why you became involved in publishing.
Thanks for having me today, Rebecca! I’ve been an avid reader since I learned how to read. By the time I was in grade school, I devoured all the Nancy Drew and Trixie Belden books I could get a hold of. By middle school, my aunt introduced me to Harlequin and I fell in love with romance.
My husband worked for Eastman Kodak and I observed the shift from film to digital and suspected the same would happen with books. I registered the name Soul Mate Publishing in 2006 then conducted all the background business until we opened our doors in 2011.
Obviously, readers have a vast number of choices in books. Why do you feel readers will enjoy the books Soul Mate Publishing has to offer?
Soul Mate Publishing offers readers unique and engaging books from authors all over the world. Our books consistently place in and win prestigious writing contests as well as consistently get excellent reviews, both from known romance review sites as well as readers.
What would you most like people to know about you, and Soul Mate Publishing?
I believe that we are friendly and welcoming to our authors and readers.
As an editor, how do you pay it forward?
I've had the opportunity to work with some excellent writers, editors, and writing instructors and I try and pass along what I’ve learned to newer writers.
What is the single best piece of advice you would give to authors about the craft of writing, about marketing, and/or the writing life?
Like everything else, writing requires practice and coaching. If you look at both acting and sports, even people considered at the top of their game have coaches. In writing, editors are a writer’s coach and are a necessary part of helping an author improve his/her craft.
What motivated you to start Soul Mate Publishing, and what continues to inspire you?
I’ve always loved to teach and being an editor is a form of teaching. I am inspired by fresh ideas and stories, and the fact we publish unique stories guarantees that I will never be bored.
The one thing we can all count on is change. How do you plan to continue to evolve in the publishing business?
It’s the Wild West of publishing. This business is constantly changing and we have to change with it or we will be left in the dust. I do my best to stay on top of market news.
What do you feel are the greatest challenges facing authors, editors, and the publishing industry today?
I think one of the greatest challenges is letting go of print books. Don’t get me wrong, I love to hold a print book. I love to go to bookstores and libraries and even inhale the scent of books. But, like film, print books are becoming less and less the preferred medium. I personally hope that there will be a place for print books in the future but for authors who love a print book like I do, I think it’s difficult to grapple with and come to terms with the fact that promotional efforts really do need to focus around an increasingly digital world and that while it’s nice to hold a print book, many readers don’t want to have to cart them around on vacation when they can fit hundreds of books on a lightweight e-reader device.
Visit Soul Mate Publishing for more information on great books, authors and more!
Sign up for the Soul Mate Publishing newsletter
September 14, 2015
From Freelancing to Fiction: My Best ‘Crossover’ Writing Tips
I’ve been writing for 15+ years as a freelancer, and 5+ as an author. While those two animals – non-fiction and fiction – are, in some ways, as different as night and day, I’ve found they also share some striking similarities.
Today, I’m sharing those similarities, and the ‘crossover’ techniques I’ve learned as a freelancer, and how I’ve applied them to writing fiction.
If you’re a writer, I’d love to hear from you – what’s been your experience in this arena? Are you a freelancer? An author? Both? What tips are you willing to share?
1. WRITING FOUNDATIONS
In this post, I share the tenets I’ve learned and applied over 15+ years as a freelancer, as well as what was a life changing event for me. The tenets apply equally well to writing fiction, and just about anything worth doing, in my opinion.
http://rebeccaneely.com/?p=192
2. INTERVIEWING TECHNIQUES
As a freelancer, I interviewed hundreds of people over the years. In this post, I share the techniques I used to guarantee a productive and meaningful interview, and how I applied this to interviewing my fictional characters.
http://rebeccaneely.com/?p=190
3. PACING
We all have deadlines. As a freelancer, I never missed one. Find out what I learned about writing non-fiction that enables me to focus on the ‘meat’ of my stories, propelling them forward, and being productive.
http://rebeccaneely.com/?p=188
4. BONUS: MY BEST FICTION WRITING RESOURCES
Finally, I share my best fiction writing resources, for when I need some guidance. As a freelancer, I read scores of how-to books, and fiction is no different. These are my top two I rely on whenever I’m stuck.
http://rebeccaneely.com/?p=182
Join my mailing list & read about cool stuff like romantic suspense and great books. You can also claim your free sneak peek of The Keeper, my new paranormal romance coming soon from Soul Mate Publishing. I’ll never share your email address and that’s a promise.
Rebecca E. Neely is an author, freelance writer, lover of spoon rings, diners, the Steelers & great reads.
