Follow Natalie's blog -- and buy TRANSPARENT today!
Amazon • B&N • IndieBound • Book Depository
What book are you excited about?
Series Scavenger Hunt
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
Happy Release Day!
Dude, it's the book birthday of TRANSPARENT! I'm so excited for this book! Good thing I get to go to Natalie's launch party tonight.
About TRANSPARENT: Sixteen-year-old Fiona O'Connell is the world's first invisible girl, which makes her the ideal weapon for her crime-lord father. But now, she and her mother have escaped and are hiding out in a small town where they're determined to start a normal life.
Follow Natalie's blog -- and buy TRANSPARENT today!
Amazon • B&N • IndieBound • Book Depository
What book are you excited about?
Follow Natalie's blog -- and buy TRANSPARENT today!
Amazon • B&N • IndieBound • Book Depository
What book are you excited about?
Monday, May 20, 2013
The Essential Thing
Okay, so a week or so ago, I was fortunate enough to listen to a keynote address by Anne Perry. She's a big mystery author, which admittedly, I hadn't read. But she hails from Scotland, so if her delightful accent hadn't already won me over, the fact that she spoke on several things that hit close to my heart did.
1. The power of words. I believe in the power of words, especially those things we say and those we read. She talked about how the words we use can comfort someone in the middle of the night, when they reach for our story for comfort. I really liked that, because writing is more than the commercial aspect to me. It's about the power of words.
2. Finding that essential thing that provides you with inspiration. Well, she may not have said those words in that exact order, but that's what I got out of it. For Anne Perry, she said she loves light on water. That inspires her, shows her the beauty of the world.
I've long had this thing where I watch for and experience a "nature moment" every day. Something that reminds me that this world is big, and wonderful, and filled with glorious things I cannot even comprehend. Something that takes me beyond myself, and my worries and cares.
And as Anne Perry was speaking, I realized that I too have something that inspires me. Something that always makes me feel at peace, evokes in me a sense of wonder. And that's the moon. I've always loved looking at the moon and the stars, of staring into the night sky with a sense of its incomprehensible vastness.
So what's your essential thing? What's something that inspires you, that takes you beyond yourself, that brings you a sense of wonder and joy?
1. The power of words. I believe in the power of words, especially those things we say and those we read. She talked about how the words we use can comfort someone in the middle of the night, when they reach for our story for comfort. I really liked that, because writing is more than the commercial aspect to me. It's about the power of words.
2. Finding that essential thing that provides you with inspiration. Well, she may not have said those words in that exact order, but that's what I got out of it. For Anne Perry, she said she loves light on water. That inspires her, shows her the beauty of the world.
I've long had this thing where I watch for and experience a "nature moment" every day. Something that reminds me that this world is big, and wonderful, and filled with glorious things I cannot even comprehend. Something that takes me beyond myself, and my worries and cares.
And as Anne Perry was speaking, I realized that I too have something that inspires me. Something that always makes me feel at peace, evokes in me a sense of wonder. And that's the moon. I've always loved looking at the moon and the stars, of staring into the night sky with a sense of its incomprehensible vastness.
So what's your essential thing? What's something that inspires you, that takes you beyond yourself, that brings you a sense of wonder and joy?
Thursday, May 16, 2013
INSOMNIA by JR Johansson
Okay, so today I'm talking about INSOMNIA by JR Johansson. I can never quite get that name right. Two N's? Two S's? I get it wrong every time! But one thing you can't get wrong is reading her book, INSOMNIA.
I'll admit right up front that I'm wimp. I've only just started exploring the YA thriller/horror genre, because it scares me. But I've really been enjoying the select novels I've read, INSOMNIA included. I liked it so much, I offered Jenn a blurb: “Cleverly written and dangerously dark, Insomnia will take you to the brink of insanity. A must-read for thriller and romance fans alike.”
Let's explore a little deeper... if you dare!
About THE BOOK:
The Twitter version: tell us about your book in 140 characters or less: INSOMNIA is about a teenage boy who spends every night stuck in the dreams of the last person he made eye contact with and it's killing him.
What’s the one thing you learned about publishing that you didn’t anticipate?
I didn’t anticipate how crazy the last couple of months before publication can be. There is so much behind-the-scenes stuff going on that you don’t know about until you’re in it. (So true!)
What else are you working on? Secrets? Inside scoops? Give us the juicy stuff!
I’m working on three new projects actually, trying to decide which one should be my next project. They’re all creepy. One is sci-fi, one is apocalyptic, and one is urban contemporary. I don’t know how I’m going to pick because I LOVE them all. Oh the woes of the writer. ;-) (Just write them all, Jenn!)
About THE AUTHOR:
Have you always wanted to be a writer?
No. I never wanted to be a writer. (This answer is so rare! I swear I'm the only one who can say this, so yay for company!) I only started writing because I was going through a rough spot and scribbling notes on paper was therapeutic for me. Then the scribbles turned into a story and after that I couldn’t stop.
What made you decide to go that “extra step” and seek publication?
I loved writing and I wanted to continue to push myself to improve and get better. Trying to move toward publication was a great way to hone my skills.
Quick! You’ve been chosen to be a contestant on Survivor. What luxury item do you take?
My ipad mini? Face wash pads? I fail at even wanting to be on Survivor. I like being clean way too much. (Yes, there is that...)
Tell us something about yourself we don’t know.
I have lived in Washington, Nevada, Utah, Wyoming, Colorado and Ohio…and I LOVE to travel.
And the most important of all: bacon or chocolate?
This may not be the popular answer…but definitely chocolate. (Boo! But I get it.) I have a killer sweet tooth.
You can find Jenn or INSOMNIA on twitter, her blog, Facebook, and Goodreads. You can buy INSOMNIA on Amazon, the Book Depository, Barnes & Noble, or your favorite independent bookseller. You won't be sorry!!
My review of INSOMNIA: I really liked Parker. Does he do some creepy things? Sure, because oh my heck, can you imagine not sleeping? When he finds a way to sink into slumber, he's desperate for it, and he does some pretty insane things to make sure it happens. But I hurt for him so much that I really wanted Parker to be able to sleep!
This is a thriller, and as Parker begins to sleep, more creeptastic things begin to happen. I don't want to give anything away, so you should read the book. Jenn does a great job with the tension and pacing, and there's even the possibility of kissing, which you know I like. I literally read the book in a single day, felt connected to Parker, and wanted to solve all his problems for him.
That's how I know I've just read a great novel.
Jenn is running a pre-order INSOMNIA giveaway! If you pre-order the novel, you can enter to win a NookHD! So spend seven bucks and enter to win this amazing $250 prize! You really can't go wrong here, because no matter what, you'll be getting an amazing novel to read. So here's those pre-order links again:
Check out what the other Bookanistas are talking about this week:
I'll admit right up front that I'm wimp. I've only just started exploring the YA thriller/horror genre, because it scares me. But I've really been enjoying the select novels I've read, INSOMNIA included. I liked it so much, I offered Jenn a blurb: “Cleverly written and dangerously dark, Insomnia will take you to the brink of insanity. A must-read for thriller and romance fans alike.”
Let's explore a little deeper... if you dare!
The Twitter version: tell us about your book in 140 characters or less: INSOMNIA is about a teenage boy who spends every night stuck in the dreams of the last person he made eye contact with and it's killing him.
What’s the one thing you learned about publishing that you didn’t anticipate?
I didn’t anticipate how crazy the last couple of months before publication can be. There is so much behind-the-scenes stuff going on that you don’t know about until you’re in it. (So true!)
What else are you working on? Secrets? Inside scoops? Give us the juicy stuff!
I’m working on three new projects actually, trying to decide which one should be my next project. They’re all creepy. One is sci-fi, one is apocalyptic, and one is urban contemporary. I don’t know how I’m going to pick because I LOVE them all. Oh the woes of the writer. ;-) (Just write them all, Jenn!)
Have you always wanted to be a writer?
No. I never wanted to be a writer. (This answer is so rare! I swear I'm the only one who can say this, so yay for company!) I only started writing because I was going through a rough spot and scribbling notes on paper was therapeutic for me. Then the scribbles turned into a story and after that I couldn’t stop.
What made you decide to go that “extra step” and seek publication?
I loved writing and I wanted to continue to push myself to improve and get better. Trying to move toward publication was a great way to hone my skills.
Quick! You’ve been chosen to be a contestant on Survivor. What luxury item do you take?
My ipad mini? Face wash pads? I fail at even wanting to be on Survivor. I like being clean way too much. (Yes, there is that...)
Tell us something about yourself we don’t know.
I have lived in Washington, Nevada, Utah, Wyoming, Colorado and Ohio…and I LOVE to travel.
And the most important of all: bacon or chocolate?
This may not be the popular answer…but definitely chocolate. (Boo! But I get it.) I have a killer sweet tooth.
You can find Jenn or INSOMNIA on twitter, her blog, Facebook, and Goodreads. You can buy INSOMNIA on Amazon, the Book Depository, Barnes & Noble, or your favorite independent bookseller. You won't be sorry!!
My review of INSOMNIA: I really liked Parker. Does he do some creepy things? Sure, because oh my heck, can you imagine not sleeping? When he finds a way to sink into slumber, he's desperate for it, and he does some pretty insane things to make sure it happens. But I hurt for him so much that I really wanted Parker to be able to sleep!
This is a thriller, and as Parker begins to sleep, more creeptastic things begin to happen. I don't want to give anything away, so you should read the book. Jenn does a great job with the tension and pacing, and there's even the possibility of kissing, which you know I like. I literally read the book in a single day, felt connected to Parker, and wanted to solve all his problems for him.
That's how I know I've just read a great novel.
Jenn is running a pre-order INSOMNIA giveaway! If you pre-order the novel, you can enter to win a NookHD! So spend seven bucks and enter to win this amazing $250 prize! You really can't go wrong here, because no matter what, you'll be getting an amazing novel to read. So here's those pre-order links again:
Check out what the other Bookanistas are talking about this week:
- Lenore Appelhans is blown away by REBOOT by Amy Tintera
- Carrie Harris adores BEYOND DINOCALYPSE by Chuck Wendig -- with giveaway!
- Tracy Banghart & Debra Driza join THE GIRL GUIDE by Christine Fonseca book blitz!
- Corrine Jackson is stunned by BREAKING BEAUTIFUL by Jennifer Shaw Wolf
- Nikki Katz wonders at THE GRAVE WINNER by Lindsey Loucks
- Gretchen McNeil talks TRUTH OR DARE by Jacqueline Green
- Tracey Neithercott celebrates THE YEAR OF SECRET ASSIGNMENTS by Jacqueline Moriarty
- Katy Upperman fawns over FINNIKIN OF THE ROCK by Melina Marchetta
- Rebecca Behrens is wowed by THE FIFTH WAVE by Rick Yancey
Monday, May 13, 2013
Introducing Author Services
Okay, I'm sort of a little terrified to do this. I've been doing most of it behind-the-scenes for years now, and I've decided to throw myself into the fray. I might come out bloody, but it might be worth it. Right? Um, right.
*gulp*
So I've decided to offer some services to authors. I have a new tab in my navigation bar, and basically, there are three things.
1. Writing a Killer Query Letter online workshop.
2. Query letter writing/editing services.
3. Blog tour/online publicity services.
In more detail, they are:
Writing a Killer Query Letter online workshop: This 7-week course will be offered once every quarter and is limited to 10 people per class. The cost is $250, and participants will have personal access to Elana (and each other) in a private forum where they will get exclusive instruction on how to write a query letter. Critiques are essential, and everyone will walk away with the personal confidence and professional product to begin querying literary agents.
See what participants of the class have to say:
The first workshop begins on June 2 and runs until July 20, 2013. If you're interested in signing up for the Query Letter Class, but need more information please fill out this form. There is a spot to ask questions, and Elana will be in touch with you to make sure all your concerns are answered.
Your spot is not secured until your payment is received, and Elana will send you an invoice through Paypal for payment. If you're ready to sign up, and don't need to use the form to ask questions, buy now!
The next query letter workshop will be from September 30 - November 16, 2013.
Query letter writing: Let Elana critique, rework, rewrite, or completely pen your query letter. They don't call her the Query Ninja for nothing!
Packages include:
A. Need a polish/fresh eyes/quick read with minor rewriting and advice? Email consultation only. $25
B. Need some extra work, rewording, reorganization, genre advice? 15-minute Skype consultation + email support as necessary. $60
C. Write my letter for me! Two 15-minute skype consultations (one prior to writing the query letter, one following the deliverance of the letter) + email support. $100
Query letter services are available according to Elana's schedule. Elana will read your query and evaluate the amount of work she thinks it needs if you're not sure between package A and B.
Please fill out this form to inquire about query letter services.
No work will be done (besides evaluation reading) until payment is received. After that, query letters will be turned around within 7 days. If you're ready to move ahead with query letter services, and don't need to use the form to ask Elana questions, you can buy now!
Blog tours: Elana has worked extensively with YA book bloggers over the past three years, setting up successful blog tours for a variety of authors. Let her schedule and manage your next tour! At this time, she is only accepting YA titles from traditionally published authors. Tours can be arranged for both already-released novels and upcoming releases.
Packages:
A. 4 week, 20 stop tour (five stops per week, Monday - Friday). $150
B. 3 week, 15 stop tour (five stops per week, Monday - Friday). $100
C. 4 week, 12 stop tour (three stops per week, Monday - Friday). $80
D. 3 week, 9 stop tour (three stops per week, Monday - Friday). $65
Each tour would include a mixture of dedicated reviews, excerpts, guest posts, top ten lists, interviews, and playlists. Themed tours are available.
Each tour would include an animated banner OR blog tour button from Biguy Photography (up to a $55 value), and the author will be provided with information every step of the way.
A PDF review copy of the novel is required, as well as a high resolution book cover and author bio picture. Elana likes to work 2-3 months in advance booking blog tours, so please plan accordingly. She will not start booking your tour until payment is made.
Other Options:
Book Blitz, 2-day intense "bombing" of social media with trailers, cover, book description, simple one-line Q&A, favorite lines from the book, and a $50 gift card giveaway. $125
Fill out this request form to get the process started.
So there you go! I'm excited to be venturing out from behind the scenes!
*gulp*
So I've decided to offer some services to authors. I have a new tab in my navigation bar, and basically, there are three things.
1. Writing a Killer Query Letter online workshop.
2. Query letter writing/editing services.
3. Blog tour/online publicity services.
In more detail, they are:
Writing a Killer Query Letter online workshop: This 7-week course will be offered once every quarter and is limited to 10 people per class. The cost is $250, and participants will have personal access to Elana (and each other) in a private forum where they will get exclusive instruction on how to write a query letter. Critiques are essential, and everyone will walk away with the personal confidence and professional product to begin querying literary agents.
See what participants of the class have to say:
The first workshop begins on June 2 and runs until July 20, 2013. If you're interested in signing up for the Query Letter Class, but need more information please fill out this form. There is a spot to ask questions, and Elana will be in touch with you to make sure all your concerns are answered.
Your spot is not secured until your payment is received, and Elana will send you an invoice through Paypal for payment. If you're ready to sign up, and don't need to use the form to ask questions, buy now!
The next query letter workshop will be from September 30 - November 16, 2013.
Query letter writing: Let Elana critique, rework, rewrite, or completely pen your query letter. They don't call her the Query Ninja for nothing!
Packages include:
A. Need a polish/fresh eyes/quick read with minor rewriting and advice? Email consultation only. $25
B. Need some extra work, rewording, reorganization, genre advice? 15-minute Skype consultation + email support as necessary. $60
C. Write my letter for me! Two 15-minute skype consultations (one prior to writing the query letter, one following the deliverance of the letter) + email support. $100
Query letter services are available according to Elana's schedule. Elana will read your query and evaluate the amount of work she thinks it needs if you're not sure between package A and B.
Please fill out this form to inquire about query letter services.
No work will be done (besides evaluation reading) until payment is received. After that, query letters will be turned around within 7 days. If you're ready to move ahead with query letter services, and don't need to use the form to ask Elana questions, you can buy now!
Blog tours: Elana has worked extensively with YA book bloggers over the past three years, setting up successful blog tours for a variety of authors. Let her schedule and manage your next tour! At this time, she is only accepting YA titles from traditionally published authors. Tours can be arranged for both already-released novels and upcoming releases.
Packages:
A. 4 week, 20 stop tour (five stops per week, Monday - Friday). $150
B. 3 week, 15 stop tour (five stops per week, Monday - Friday). $100
C. 4 week, 12 stop tour (three stops per week, Monday - Friday). $80
D. 3 week, 9 stop tour (three stops per week, Monday - Friday). $65
Each tour would include a mixture of dedicated reviews, excerpts, guest posts, top ten lists, interviews, and playlists. Themed tours are available.
Each tour would include an animated banner OR blog tour button from Biguy Photography (up to a $55 value), and the author will be provided with information every step of the way.
A PDF review copy of the novel is required, as well as a high resolution book cover and author bio picture. Elana likes to work 2-3 months in advance booking blog tours, so please plan accordingly. She will not start booking your tour until payment is made.
Other Options:
Book Blitz, 2-day intense "bombing" of social media with trailers, cover, book description, simple one-line Q&A, favorite lines from the book, and a $50 gift card giveaway. $125
Fill out this request form to get the process started.
So there you go! I'm excited to be venturing out from behind the scenes!
Thursday, May 9, 2013
STUNG by Bethany Wiggins
Okay, today's recommendation is a killer. Literally. STUNG by Bethany Wiggins is a fantastic addition to the dystopian genre, and not only that, but it's a thriller!
I was so not expecting that, having only read the first chapter a very long time ago. I read STUNG last weekend at a dance competition, and I seriously had a difficult time tearing my attention from the page to watch my own daughter dance.
STUNG is that good.
About STUNG: Fiona doesn't remember going to sleep. But when she opens her eyes, she discovers her entire world has been altered-her house is abandoned and broken, and the entire neighborhood is barren and dead. Even stranger is the tattoo on her right wrist-a black oval with five marks on either side-that she doesn't remember getting but somehow knows she must cover at any cost. And she's right. When the honeybee population collapsed, a worldwide pandemic occurred and the government tried to bio-engineer a cure. Only the solution was deadlier than the original problem-the vaccination turned people into ferocious, deadly beasts who were branded as a warning to un-vaccinated survivors. Key people needed to rebuild society are protected from disease and beasts inside a fortress-like wall. But Fiona has awakened branded, alone-and on the wrong side of the wall...
See, chills, right?
I liked the world-building in STUNG. The words and terms used didn't feel forced, and they weren't explained up-front, which I kind of liked. Fiona wakes up and knows nothing, and the readers get to experience and learn the world as she does. I thought that was well-done.
As I said, STUNG is a thriller. Well, maybe thriller isn't quite the right word, but in my world it is. I love the fast action of movies like Mission Impossible and Jason Bourne. And STUNG reads fast, with action and tension, much like those kinds of movies.
As if that weren't enough, there's also a tender romance in STUNG. As Fiona begins to remember swatches of her previous life, she remembers the people she used to know. One of her former neighbors is a boy named Bowen, who happens to be charged with guarding Fiona. I loved Bowen, and I enjoyed the development of their relationship interminged between all the fast-paced danger of the world they live in.
Find your next read from the Bookanistas!
I was so not expecting that, having only read the first chapter a very long time ago. I read STUNG last weekend at a dance competition, and I seriously had a difficult time tearing my attention from the page to watch my own daughter dance.
STUNG is that good.
See, chills, right?
I liked the world-building in STUNG. The words and terms used didn't feel forced, and they weren't explained up-front, which I kind of liked. Fiona wakes up and knows nothing, and the readers get to experience and learn the world as she does. I thought that was well-done.
As I said, STUNG is a thriller. Well, maybe thriller isn't quite the right word, but in my world it is. I love the fast action of movies like Mission Impossible and Jason Bourne. And STUNG reads fast, with action and tension, much like those kinds of movies.
As if that weren't enough, there's also a tender romance in STUNG. As Fiona begins to remember swatches of her previous life, she remembers the people she used to know. One of her former neighbors is a boy named Bowen, who happens to be charged with guarding Fiona. I loved Bowen, and I enjoyed the development of their relationship interminged between all the fast-paced danger of the world they live in.
Find your next read from the Bookanistas!
- Christine Fonseca marvels at MILA 2.0 by Debra Driza – with giveaway!
- Stasia Ward Kehoe fawns over THE FIFTH WAVE by Rick Yancey
- Jessica Love raves about THE RULES FOR DISAPPEARING by Ashley Elton
- Shannon Messenger shares an exclusive excerpt from INSOMNIA
- Tracy Banghart swoons for THE NAME OF THE STAR by Maureen Johnson
- Lenore Appelhans celebrates 17 AND GONE by Nova Ren Suma
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
SURRENDER Paperback Release!
I swear SURRENDER has been out for ten years. This past year feels really long, doesn't it? At the same time I can hardly believe that there's only three weeks of school left. It feels like it's gone so fast!
So yeah. Time is warped.
And the SURRENDER paperback is out today! Not only that, but the third and final book in the Possession series is out in under a month, so now would be a great time to read or re-read the books to be ready for that conclusion...
There are a coupe of giveaways on Goodreads to help you with this. Possession is here, and Surrender is embedded below. Go forth and enter!
You can order the paperback from a retailer of your choice on my Simon & Schuster page.
And the SURRENDER paperback is out today! Not only that, but the third and final book in the Possession series is out in under a month, so now would be a great time to read or re-read the books to be ready for that conclusion...
There are a coupe of giveaways on Goodreads to help you with this. Possession is here, and Surrender is embedded below. Go forth and enter!
You can order the paperback from a retailer of your choice on my Simon & Schuster page.
Monday, May 6, 2013
My Dirty Little Secret
Okay, so I've been on the writing scene for a few years now. About six, to be exact. I've attended a number of conferences. Been critiqued and edited until I want to gouge out my eyes and invest heavily in Rogaine. I've read countless blogs on craft, and books on improving pacing, tension, self-editing. The list goes on and on.
One thing I've heard -- and even advocated! -- is reading your book out loud.
But... confession time. I've never done it. I hate (like loathe with the passion of a thousand suns) reading my own work out loud. I refuse to do it at signings and events, because it just sounds so lame in my own voice.
I won't do it.
Thus, I've never read one of my manuscripts out loud.
Until this past revision I was working on. And I didn't read it, but my Mac version of Word has a option that lets you select text and send it to iTunes as a spoken track.
I did that. I had Alex read my book to me. Here's what I learned:
1. It is so painfully slow, you'll still need to invest in Rogaine. But that's kind of the whole point. When you read, your brain fixes things. You skim over things. Forcing yourself to read out loud -- or to listen -- is hard. So slow. I think it took something like 12 hours to read the whole book (yes it is really long too). (And now you know why I've been absent for a while...)
2. Using iTunes is awesome, because I can sync it with my iPod and put it in my car. So wherever I go -- and I basically drive everyone everywhere -- I can be working.
3. I found things I would have never discovered. I was sitting at my computer, following along one day, reading ahead of Alex. Next thing I know, he says "staking down her face." I was like, "Wait. What? Staking? That can't be right, I just read that..."
And you know what? Alex was right. I had switched the T and the K, and I didn't even notice. Like I said, our tricksy brains fix things like that.
So overall, I think the experience was very valuable. I had whole sections of the book that were redone, so they were basically a first draft. Listening to them helped me find the too-long sentences, the repeated words, the typos.
So there you have it. I can proudly say that after six years, I have finally read a book out loud as an editing tool!
Have you done this? Either read your work out loud as you're editing, or had the computer read it to you? What was your experience like?
One thing I've heard -- and even advocated! -- is reading your book out loud.
But... confession time. I've never done it. I hate (like loathe with the passion of a thousand suns) reading my own work out loud. I refuse to do it at signings and events, because it just sounds so lame in my own voice.
I won't do it.
Thus, I've never read one of my manuscripts out loud.
Until this past revision I was working on. And I didn't read it, but my Mac version of Word has a option that lets you select text and send it to iTunes as a spoken track.
I did that. I had Alex read my book to me. Here's what I learned:
1. It is so painfully slow, you'll still need to invest in Rogaine. But that's kind of the whole point. When you read, your brain fixes things. You skim over things. Forcing yourself to read out loud -- or to listen -- is hard. So slow. I think it took something like 12 hours to read the whole book (yes it is really long too). (And now you know why I've been absent for a while...)
2. Using iTunes is awesome, because I can sync it with my iPod and put it in my car. So wherever I go -- and I basically drive everyone everywhere -- I can be working.
3. I found things I would have never discovered. I was sitting at my computer, following along one day, reading ahead of Alex. Next thing I know, he says "staking down her face." I was like, "Wait. What? Staking? That can't be right, I just read that..."
And you know what? Alex was right. I had switched the T and the K, and I didn't even notice. Like I said, our tricksy brains fix things like that.
So overall, I think the experience was very valuable. I had whole sections of the book that were redone, so they were basically a first draft. Listening to them helped me find the too-long sentences, the repeated words, the typos.
So there you have it. I can proudly say that after six years, I have finally read a book out loud as an editing tool!
Have you done this? Either read your work out loud as you're editing, or had the computer read it to you? What was your experience like?
Thursday, April 25, 2013
THE FAULT IN OUR STARS by John Green
Okay, so I think I might be the last person on the planet to read THE FAULT IN OUR STARS. Part of that is my rebellious nature. I automatically buck against anything that "everyone seems to like" or that "everyone is doing."
Might be lame. I don't know.
The other part of this equation is that I often don't like books that everyone else does. Then I have to wonder why everyone likes this book that I really don't. Is it them? Is it me?
So I held off on reading THE FAULT IN OUR STARS. I just couldn't do it when everyone else did, mostly out of fear that once again, I'd be disappointed and left pondering why I couldn't like a book that seemingly everyone else on the planet does.
Thankfully, that didn't happen. I read THE FAULT IN OUR STARS, and I really liked it!
About THE FAULT IN OUR STARS: Despite the tumor-shrinking medical miracle that has bought her a few years, Hazel has never been anything but terminal, her final chapter inscribed upon diagnosis. But when a gorgeous plot twist named Augustus Waters suddenly appears at Cancer Kid Support Group, Hazel’s story is about to be completely rewritten.
I think the thing I liked best was that while this is a tragedy, the main characters don't give up. It's a story that encompasses life--because those of us plodding along on this orb aren't giving up. We keep putting one foot (and in the case of Augustus, he only has one, which I thought was brilliant) in front of the other, and hoping.
I've read lots of reviews and such of this book, claiming I'd cry. Well, I didn't, but that just might be because I'm heartless (ha!). But I really did enjoy the journey Hazel and Augustus embark on together, and it reminded me that every day I live should be filled with hope no matter what circumstances I'm facing.
Check out what the other Bookanistas are raving about:
Katy Upperman ponders LOVE AND OTHER PERISHABLE ITEMS by Laura Buzo
Kimberly Sabatini wonders at WHEN YOU WERE HERE by Daisy Whitney
Tracy Banghart loves LACRIMOSA by Christine Fonseca
Corrine Jackson adores the ARCADIA BELL series by Jenn Bennett
Rebecca Behrens delves into CODE NAME VERITY by Elizabeth Wein
Lenore Appelhans raves about THE RULES by Stacey Kade
Stasia Ward Kehoe wraps up National Poetry Month with THE POETRY TEACHER’S BOOK OF LISTS by Sylvia Vardell
Christine Fonseca celebrates UNDER THE NEVER SKY by Veronica Rossi
Jessica Love hails THIS IS WHAT HAPPY LOOKS LIKE by Jennifer E. Smith
Shannon Messenger discusses some recent reads
Might be lame. I don't know.
The other part of this equation is that I often don't like books that everyone else does. Then I have to wonder why everyone likes this book that I really don't. Is it them? Is it me?
So I held off on reading THE FAULT IN OUR STARS. I just couldn't do it when everyone else did, mostly out of fear that once again, I'd be disappointed and left pondering why I couldn't like a book that seemingly everyone else on the planet does.
Thankfully, that didn't happen. I read THE FAULT IN OUR STARS, and I really liked it!
I think the thing I liked best was that while this is a tragedy, the main characters don't give up. It's a story that encompasses life--because those of us plodding along on this orb aren't giving up. We keep putting one foot (and in the case of Augustus, he only has one, which I thought was brilliant) in front of the other, and hoping.
I've read lots of reviews and such of this book, claiming I'd cry. Well, I didn't, but that just might be because I'm heartless (ha!). But I really did enjoy the journey Hazel and Augustus embark on together, and it reminded me that every day I live should be filled with hope no matter what circumstances I'm facing.
Check out what the other Bookanistas are raving about:
Katy Upperman ponders LOVE AND OTHER PERISHABLE ITEMS by Laura Buzo
Kimberly Sabatini wonders at WHEN YOU WERE HERE by Daisy Whitney
Tracy Banghart loves LACRIMOSA by Christine Fonseca
Corrine Jackson adores the ARCADIA BELL series by Jenn Bennett
Rebecca Behrens delves into CODE NAME VERITY by Elizabeth Wein
Lenore Appelhans raves about THE RULES by Stacey Kade
Stasia Ward Kehoe wraps up National Poetry Month with THE POETRY TEACHER’S BOOK OF LISTS by Sylvia Vardell
Christine Fonseca celebrates UNDER THE NEVER SKY by Veronica Rossi
Jessica Love hails THIS IS WHAT HAPPY LOOKS LIKE by Jennifer E. Smith
Shannon Messenger discusses some recent reads
Monday, April 22, 2013
Am I a Work-in-Progress?
Okay, so I'm in the throes of a major rewrite/revision. I think it's the biggest one I've ever done on one of my novels, both published and unpublished--and that's saying something, because I did massive amounts of editing on my published novels.
So I was looking back through some of my revision/rewriting posts, thinking I'd "see how it's done" and maybe re-post one of them for today.
As I did so, I realized something. I don't revise the same way I used to.
Imagine my shock! My mind was suddenly buzzing: What's changed? Am I better now? Or worse? Oh my heck, am *I* a work-in-progress?
I think we are. And I think it's a good thing. The more I've been thinking about it, the more I've been realizing that heck, yes, I better have changed how I'm doing things! I've learned so much from being professionally edited. I've learned from reading craft books, and regular novels, and being entrenched in the business of storytelling.
I actually think it would be sad if I revised a novel now the exact same way I did three years ago. I'm happy to say that yes! I am a work-in-progress, and I have grown and changed.
My revision process now is done on a much more holistic level. I used to separate my novel into thirds and work on paper. I suppose I might still do that, if the novel required it. But I find that I haven't printed a novel to revise it for a long time. I simply work on the computer.
Three years ago, I had no idea what set pieces were, and now I meticulously check my percentages to make sure my midpoint moment happens at the midpoint, and my act breaks are placed appropriately.
I've also found that I go much slower than I used to. I have specific projects I'm passionate about, and they deserve the time required to get them right (this is pretty ironic, considering that the most massive rewrite/revision I'm currently doing is on a time travel novel. Time... get it... the time travel novel deserves time... Okay, nevermind).
So tell me. Are you a work-in-progress?
So I was looking back through some of my revision/rewriting posts, thinking I'd "see how it's done" and maybe re-post one of them for today.
As I did so, I realized something. I don't revise the same way I used to.
Imagine my shock! My mind was suddenly buzzing: What's changed? Am I better now? Or worse? Oh my heck, am *I* a work-in-progress?
I think we are. And I think it's a good thing. The more I've been thinking about it, the more I've been realizing that heck, yes, I better have changed how I'm doing things! I've learned so much from being professionally edited. I've learned from reading craft books, and regular novels, and being entrenched in the business of storytelling.
I actually think it would be sad if I revised a novel now the exact same way I did three years ago. I'm happy to say that yes! I am a work-in-progress, and I have grown and changed.
My revision process now is done on a much more holistic level. I used to separate my novel into thirds and work on paper. I suppose I might still do that, if the novel required it. But I find that I haven't printed a novel to revise it for a long time. I simply work on the computer.
Three years ago, I had no idea what set pieces were, and now I meticulously check my percentages to make sure my midpoint moment happens at the midpoint, and my act breaks are placed appropriately.
I've also found that I go much slower than I used to. I have specific projects I'm passionate about, and they deserve the time required to get them right (this is pretty ironic, considering that the most massive rewrite/revision I'm currently doing is on a time travel novel. Time... get it... the time travel novel deserves time... Okay, nevermind).
So tell me. Are you a work-in-progress?
Monday, April 15, 2013
Series Scavenger Hunt...
Okay, so see that header up there? Yeah, my husband built that. He's awesome like that. I know it's a couple of months out, but get ready for the POSSESSION series scavenger hunt coming with the release of the third and final book on June 4: ABANDON.
It's 10 days of awesome. 1 fabulous map. Over 60 book blogs. You really don't want to miss it. Really, really.
Along with that, here are a couple of other things I have going on around the world:
ABANDON launch events:
Other fun stuff:
Spiffy graphic right? Does it cycle through for you? What do you think?
It's 10 days of awesome. 1 fabulous map. Over 60 book blogs. You really don't want to miss it. Really, really.
Along with that, here are a couple of other things I have going on around the world:
- Today, Monday, April 15: Alhambra Civic Center Library, 3 - 5 PM: I'll be speaking about publishing and writing as part of their National Library Week celebration.
- Friday, May 9: Book signing, Provo Marriott in conjunction with the LDStorymakers Conference
ABANDON launch events:
- Tuesday, June 4: The King's English, 7 PM
- Thursday, June 13: Orem Barnes & Noble, 6 PM
Other fun stuff:
- Tuesday, June 18: Writing and Illustrating for Young Readers Conference -- I'm teaching about blogging.
Spiffy graphic right? Does it cycle through for you? What do you think?
Friday, April 12, 2013
A BLIND EYE Trailer!!
Okay, so I'm always amazed by book trailers that are done well. I love the two-minute sketch of what movies and books are about. And Julie Daines has a great trailer I wanted to share with you today! It's for her novel A BLIND EYE, which came out earlier this year.
I mean, awesome, right? I can't wait to read A BLIND EYE!
I mean, awesome, right? I can't wait to read A BLIND EYE!
What movie/book trailers have you seen recently that have you all jazzed to watch/read?
Thursday, April 11, 2013
THE SELECTION by Kiera Cass
Dude, I've really been enjoying a lot of the books I've been reading these days. And you'd be surprised to learn that I've branched out beyond YA. I know! You thought it would never happen! Well. It has!
This week's recommendation is THE SELECTION by Kiera Cass. I bought this book a long time ago, and recently found the time to sit down and devour it.
First, a bit about THE SELECTION: For thirty-five girls, the Selection is the chance of a lifetime. The opportunity to escape the life laid out for them since birth. To be swept up in a world of glittering gowns and priceless jewels. To live in a palace and compete for the heart of gorgeous Prince Maxon.
But for America Singer, being Selected is a nightmare. It means turning her back on her secret love with Aspen, who is a caste below her. Leaving her home to enter a fierce competition for a crown she doesn't want. Living in a palace that is constantly threatened by violent rebel attacks.
Then America meets Prince Maxon. Gradually, she starts to question all the plans she's made for herself--and realizes that the life she's always dreamed of may not compare to a future she never imagined.
I really liked America as the main character. I thought the set-up for the society and how a person lives in a specific caste. I found that system fascinating, and would read more about that specifically. I rooted for America and Aspen... until I met Prince Maxon.
He's a great lead male character as well, full of fire and faults--which isn't always the case with our heroes. Since he doesn't narrate, we don't know everything about him, but we know he's not perfect. I liked that in a literary world where often our male MC's are perfection on the page.
I liked that there was more to this plot than just a romance. There's some dangerous things going on outside the castle that I was extremely interested in. I didn't get all my questions answered in THE SELECTION, so I'm excited to read THE ELITE.
If you liked WITHER, you'll like THE SELECTION. If you liked MATCHED, you'll like THE SELECTION. It has the same feel as both of them, while being able to be unique enough to be discussed on it's own merits.
Check out what the other Bookanistas are talking about this week:
Favorite read this week?
This week's recommendation is THE SELECTION by Kiera Cass. I bought this book a long time ago, and recently found the time to sit down and devour it.
But for America Singer, being Selected is a nightmare. It means turning her back on her secret love with Aspen, who is a caste below her. Leaving her home to enter a fierce competition for a crown she doesn't want. Living in a palace that is constantly threatened by violent rebel attacks.
Then America meets Prince Maxon. Gradually, she starts to question all the plans she's made for herself--and realizes that the life she's always dreamed of may not compare to a future she never imagined.
I really liked America as the main character. I thought the set-up for the society and how a person lives in a specific caste. I found that system fascinating, and would read more about that specifically. I rooted for America and Aspen... until I met Prince Maxon.
He's a great lead male character as well, full of fire and faults--which isn't always the case with our heroes. Since he doesn't narrate, we don't know everything about him, but we know he's not perfect. I liked that in a literary world where often our male MC's are perfection on the page.
I liked that there was more to this plot than just a romance. There's some dangerous things going on outside the castle that I was extremely interested in. I didn't get all my questions answered in THE SELECTION, so I'm excited to read THE ELITE.
If you liked WITHER, you'll like THE SELECTION. If you liked MATCHED, you'll like THE SELECTION. It has the same feel as both of them, while being able to be unique enough to be discussed on it's own merits.
Check out what the other Bookanistas are talking about this week:
- Corrine Jackson is swept away by SUCH A RUSH
- Christine Fonseca interviews THE LIES THATBIND authors Lisa & Laura Roecker
- Stasia Ward Kehoe parties with the Academy of American Poets on POEM IN YOUR POCKET DAY
- Jessica Love is wowed by WHERE THINGS COME BACK by John Corey Whaley
- Tracy Banghart delves into THE HOST (book & movie) by Stephenie Meyer
- Katy Upperman discusses Erica Lorraine Scheidt’s USES FOR BOYS
Favorite read this week?
Monday, April 8, 2013
Is It Worth It?
Okay, sometimes I wonder at things. Most recently, I've been wondering if this publishing thing is worth the time and effort I've previously put into it. Notice I didn't say writing. I do love to write, and often I have a side project that I pour my energy into that no one will ever see. I don't want anyone to see those things.
But sometimes I wonder if pursuing publishing is worth what I'm sacrificing. Sometimes I wonder if the emotional investment I'm depositing is too much. Sometimes I'm eating dinner with my family, but I'm thinking about publishing. I'm obsessing over publishing. What makes my day "good" or "bad" is dependent on what publishing news I've had--or haven't had.
I feel like I've achieved some level of balance between my real life and publishing in a physical sense. But in an emotional and mental sense, I fear I am still far too focused on publishing. And I'm wondering: Is it worth it?
What are your thoughts? Tips on achieving mental/emotional balance with this publishing roller coaster?
But sometimes I wonder if pursuing publishing is worth what I'm sacrificing. Sometimes I wonder if the emotional investment I'm depositing is too much. Sometimes I'm eating dinner with my family, but I'm thinking about publishing. I'm obsessing over publishing. What makes my day "good" or "bad" is dependent on what publishing news I've had--or haven't had.
I feel like I've achieved some level of balance between my real life and publishing in a physical sense. But in an emotional and mental sense, I fear I am still far too focused on publishing. And I'm wondering: Is it worth it?
What are your thoughts? Tips on achieving mental/emotional balance with this publishing roller coaster?
Tuesday, April 2, 2013
Make Your Scenes Work Harder
Don's here today to talk about making your scenes work harder, so let's let him take it away!
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Years ago, while my wife and I were dining with her parents, her father said something that changed my whole approach to writing.
Bill Hadley was an award-winning school superintendent, known throughout the teaching profession for his staff's high quality. On this occasion we were discussing education in general, and I asked him how he achieved that sterling quality.
He smiled. "Well, it's how I select my teachers. Most employers select a new staff member to fill a single job. Me? I make sure they have at least two talents I can use. The one I'm actually hiring them for, and at least one other I can use as a bonus."
I pressed him for details, and he gave the example of hiring an English teacher. Several applicants may be qualified to teach English, but one or more may have additional skills. So he hires the one who also likes to direct school plays, or oversee a school newspaper or yearbook.
Multiply hiring for this one position by the number of teaching slots on his staff, and one can easily see that the parts definitely add up to more than the whole.
I thought about that conversation many times since that evening, and realized his hiring technique could be used in many fields. It seemed to be a Universal Truth. One day, while I was writing a scene for a new novel, the power of his technique hit me. Why, scenes were just like those teachers! If writers made every scene do at least two things instead of one, they would have a more powerful manuscript. I applied that thinking to my writing, and saw it take on a new life.
Use Two Talents
I think using the technique will make you a better writer, too. All your scenes should provide the reader information. That's the first talent. The second talent should be to move the story along.
Readers need certain information so they can follow the story. Some fiction writers provide it, in part, by having two people discuss the information in an early scene. Often this takes place in the heroine's apartment (or its equivalent). Nothing else happens in the scene.
This approach is deadly. Readers sometimes feel they're forced to sit on a couch in this cramped apartment and listen as the heroine and her sidekick discuss these pertinent must-have facts, perhaps glancing at the readers occasionally to see if they are picking up what the author is putting down. A much better way to pass that information is to do it as something else is happening.
A good example is a first chapter I read not long ago about a Manhattan girl going to a Texas dude ranch. One option the author had was to sit me down on that apartment couch and feed me a scripted message about why she is going to that ranch. This author, however, found a better way. She took me with her to the airport.
The chapter opened with the three of us—myself, the heroine, and her sister—arriving at LaGuardia. We looked around, and I began enjoying the outing. I watched people hurry by, heard the throaty announcements of departing flights, felt air gush from the air conditioners as we walked under them—the author presented all that information in a way that let me experience the trip. At the scene's end I boarded that plane with the main character and we searched for our seats.
It occurred to me, while I was anticipating my free peanuts and staring out the window at the tarmac activity, that the author had tricked me. While I was enjoying myself in the terminal the main character and her sister discussed the reasons for the trip. Sitting there in that airplane waiting to take off, I knew all those reasons. But I hadn't been forced to sit in a smoky apartment to learn them. I swear I absorbed them by some form of osmosis while accompanying my two new friends.
You can—and should—take this same approach to your scene writing. Advance the story as you provide that information, and you'll take your reader on that fictional trip with you.
Hey, this is heady stuff!
--------
Wow, right? I mean, it makes sense, but actually putting it in action is a whole other matter. So let's raise a glass to making our scenes work harder, yeah? Who's with me??
Oh, and be sure to get your copy of EDITOR-PROOF YOUR WRITING. You won't regret it.
Monday, April 1, 2013
Writerly Quirks
Okay, so I've been dabbling with a new novel. They were honestly words of intuition. I have done no planning. No plotting. No saving of cats or beating of plot lines.
I was just writing.
And I realized as I was going along that I have a writerly quirk. It's names. I re-use the same names over and over again.
Ruby, for one. And the last name Carpenter must really sing to me for some reason. I think I've used it four times, in four different novels.
But that's not all, my friends! Oh no! I steal names too. From critique partners (Joel), and family members and students and billboards (come on! You've done it too!).
I really don't get this quirk. There are like, a bajillion names. And I'm choosing the same ones over and over again?
Pathetic. (Ha!)
Do you have any writerly quirks? What are they?
I was just writing.
And I realized as I was going along that I have a writerly quirk. It's names. I re-use the same names over and over again.
Ruby, for one. And the last name Carpenter must really sing to me for some reason. I think I've used it four times, in four different novels.
But that's not all, my friends! Oh no! I steal names too. From critique partners (Joel), and family members and students and billboards (come on! You've done it too!).
I really don't get this quirk. There are like, a bajillion names. And I'm choosing the same ones over and over again?
Pathetic. (Ha!)
Do you have any writerly quirks? What are they?
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