Welcome to a new series! This will be a four part series outlining four challenges that writers face, and how I have learned to cope with them.
Up first? Distractions!
Distractions come in all shapes and sizes, and can be external or internal in origin. Most of the time I get distracted by either the internet or the TV. Since I don't have children yet, I don't have many tips of working around them. The only three I have is if they are younger work when they nap, a babysitter for a few hours, or if they're older institute a quite work time where they can color or do homework.
Many people I know use a program to turn their internet off. This doesn't work for me as I like researching things when I stumble across them in writing. I will also use playlists that are online while writing. How I get around the black hole that is the internet is to set myself time limits when writing and also time limits on how much internet time I can have. When I'm really in the groove I don't even care about spending time online, but when the writing is slower, it is much more of a distraction.
I subscribe to several YouTubers, and will often use their videos as a reward for writing for a set amount of time. I have similar constraints on the TV. My husband likes working in the living room with the TV on as background noise, but when writing it just seems to distract me. I get sucked right in to whatever show is on, and I can't get out. If this is also what happens to you, I have a tip.
Move. When he needs to be in that room to work, I leave. I love him very much, and enjoy our time together, but at that moment there is a big distraction when I want to get work done. Since I have a laptop, I move into the office. Most often I write in the living room on the couch, I know- it can lead to bad posture- but the office is always colder than the rest of the apartment for some strange reason.
When I really need to get some serious work done I will shut myself away, plug in the earbuds to drown out the noise from the TV, and get lost in the world I'm writing in. Often there are sweatshirts, blankets, hot tea, and even fingerless gloves involved. But sometimes you just have to set your time aside. After a set amount of time, or I hit the writing/editing goal for the day, I re-emerge usually much happier than before.
What about you? Any tips for dealing with Distractions?
Stay tuned for Part 2- Feeling Overwhelmed coming soon!
Friday, February 26, 2016
Wednesday, February 24, 2016
The Dangers of Being a Writer
No, this isn't going to be a satirical post about how dangerous paper cuts are. (Though I swear they are one of the worst injuries you can get.) Rather, this is concentrating on the actual dangers of sitting at a computer or desk all day.
Everyone knows, at least hopefully by now, that leading a sedentary lifestyle is not the best for our health. Sitting for longer periods of time, or general inactivity, puts people at a higher risk for heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and high blood pressure. Unfortunately, being a writer means spending time not only at the computer writing, but also reading, researching, and brainstorming. Not all of us can afford, or has an inclination to have a treadmill desk, or even a standing desk. So how are we to combat all of this sitting?
If you're like me and work in an office, get up every hour. Go to the bathroom. Get a drink. Walk to the copier, or to your colleagues office instead of sending that email. Just get up and move as often as you can, but at least once an hour. Be sure to drink enough water throughout the day as well. This will help to stave off the 2pm munchies, and also give a legitimate reason to get up every hour.
Try to carve out time a few times a week to go for a walk, run, or if you're a member at a gym head there. Even if it's just a walk around the block, moving is what our bodies were made to do. It suffers when it sits too long. I have to be more vigilant on myself to make sure I get the exercise I need. Often I practice Yoga with a DVD, or lift free weights at home when the weather isn't as nice out. There is a fantastic nature preserve not far from where I live, but in the winter getting out and about seems more difficult.
If you want to have a long career as a writer it starts with taking care of yourself. Don't smoke, don't drink to excess. Sadly writers are known for their bad habits and vices.
So break the stereotype!
Eat your fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and fish. If you want the cookie, or a serving of chips, have them. Don't deprive yourself because that leads to binge eating. Instead have a serving, and if you're still hungry, or in a snack-y mood, have an apple or carrot sticks.
Your future works depend on what you do now.
Believe me, your future readers will thank you!
Everyone knows, at least hopefully by now, that leading a sedentary lifestyle is not the best for our health. Sitting for longer periods of time, or general inactivity, puts people at a higher risk for heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and high blood pressure. Unfortunately, being a writer means spending time not only at the computer writing, but also reading, researching, and brainstorming. Not all of us can afford, or has an inclination to have a treadmill desk, or even a standing desk. So how are we to combat all of this sitting?
If you're like me and work in an office, get up every hour. Go to the bathroom. Get a drink. Walk to the copier, or to your colleagues office instead of sending that email. Just get up and move as often as you can, but at least once an hour. Be sure to drink enough water throughout the day as well. This will help to stave off the 2pm munchies, and also give a legitimate reason to get up every hour.
Try to carve out time a few times a week to go for a walk, run, or if you're a member at a gym head there. Even if it's just a walk around the block, moving is what our bodies were made to do. It suffers when it sits too long. I have to be more vigilant on myself to make sure I get the exercise I need. Often I practice Yoga with a DVD, or lift free weights at home when the weather isn't as nice out. There is a fantastic nature preserve not far from where I live, but in the winter getting out and about seems more difficult.
If you want to have a long career as a writer it starts with taking care of yourself. Don't smoke, don't drink to excess. Sadly writers are known for their bad habits and vices.
So break the stereotype!
Eat your fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and fish. If you want the cookie, or a serving of chips, have them. Don't deprive yourself because that leads to binge eating. Instead have a serving, and if you're still hungry, or in a snack-y mood, have an apple or carrot sticks.
Your future works depend on what you do now.
Believe me, your future readers will thank you!
Friday, February 19, 2016
8 Lessons Learned- Self Publishing
1. There will always be 1 typo that gets missed by yourself, two beta readers, and an editor. It's gonna be alright, just take a deep breath.
2. Learn to distance yourself from your work. When people criticize your work, they are not taking shots at you as a person.
3. Build a good support system of fellow writers, and people who believe in you and your ability.
4.Give yourself plenty of time between drafts to clear out, and come back with a fresh perspective.
5. Breathe through the formatting section. AND TAKE YOUR TIME. Don't rush through it like I did the first time. You are not a professional formatter, you are a writer.
6. Do your best at marketing, but do not obsess. Again, your specialty is writing.
7. Give your artist at least two weeks if not a full month, of cushion before your drop dead date. Your stress levels will thank you.
8. Slow down, and enjoy the process. Forgive yourself for the things you don't know off the bat. It will get better. As with anything, practice is the only way to get better.
2. Learn to distance yourself from your work. When people criticize your work, they are not taking shots at you as a person.
3. Build a good support system of fellow writers, and people who believe in you and your ability.
4.Give yourself plenty of time between drafts to clear out, and come back with a fresh perspective.
5. Breathe through the formatting section. AND TAKE YOUR TIME. Don't rush through it like I did the first time. You are not a professional formatter, you are a writer.
6. Do your best at marketing, but do not obsess. Again, your specialty is writing.
7. Give your artist at least two weeks if not a full month, of cushion before your drop dead date. Your stress levels will thank you.
8. Slow down, and enjoy the process. Forgive yourself for the things you don't know off the bat. It will get better. As with anything, practice is the only way to get better.
Wednesday, February 17, 2016
Bucking Tradition-Why I started my book with the character waking up.
One of the first pieces of advise writers hear is to never open a story by having the character wake up.
In my own writing, in my debut novel, I "broke" this rule.
Firstly the prologue is clearly a dream. The main character, Riona, is staring up into the summer sky imaging what it would be like to fly amongst the puffy clouds. Then she turns and finds that she is a giant white dragon. This scene does actually have great importance throughout the series, but I have to be careful not to spoil anything just yet! After this we launch into chapter one. Riona gets shaken awake by her long time friend Damien.
Chapter One
"Riona! Riona, wake up!"
"Mmm, just let me sleep." She mumbled, making weak hand gestures at the man interrupting her sleep.
The man spoke again, "No, we have to go now."
Rolling over, she met fierce blue eyes. Damien. While rubbing her eyes with the heels of her hands she wondered what he was doing all the way out in the foothills.
"Storm clouds are coming." His words helped her to clear her head of the fogginess left by her dream; it had seemed so real.
If Damien had found her to warn about a storm, then they needed to get out of the open. Damien's family was one of the oldest in the Rhydian Valley. They knew by trade, instinct, or otherwise, when the weather was going to be bad.
Instantly the reader is made to understand from context clues that this story is taking place in a world like our own, but is uniquely itself. There is an immediacy in his tone, and Riona realizes that and it forces the both of them into action.
I, scouts honor, have not come across one person who has read it criticize the opening. Not once has someone come up after reading and said, "you shouldn't open with her waking up." It seems that the "rules" of opening, closing, and even writing a story in general, can be broken. There is a clear reason why I chose to have the book open in this way. As long as there is a clear and understandable reason, and the opening of the story flows well, I say open it however you want!
It's your story. Tell it in the manner you think suits it best!
In my own writing, in my debut novel, I "broke" this rule.
Firstly the prologue is clearly a dream. The main character, Riona, is staring up into the summer sky imaging what it would be like to fly amongst the puffy clouds. Then she turns and finds that she is a giant white dragon. This scene does actually have great importance throughout the series, but I have to be careful not to spoil anything just yet! After this we launch into chapter one. Riona gets shaken awake by her long time friend Damien.
Chapter One
"Riona! Riona, wake up!"
"Mmm, just let me sleep." She mumbled, making weak hand gestures at the man interrupting her sleep.
The man spoke again, "No, we have to go now."
Rolling over, she met fierce blue eyes. Damien. While rubbing her eyes with the heels of her hands she wondered what he was doing all the way out in the foothills.
"Storm clouds are coming." His words helped her to clear her head of the fogginess left by her dream; it had seemed so real.
If Damien had found her to warn about a storm, then they needed to get out of the open. Damien's family was one of the oldest in the Rhydian Valley. They knew by trade, instinct, or otherwise, when the weather was going to be bad.
Instantly the reader is made to understand from context clues that this story is taking place in a world like our own, but is uniquely itself. There is an immediacy in his tone, and Riona realizes that and it forces the both of them into action.
I, scouts honor, have not come across one person who has read it criticize the opening. Not once has someone come up after reading and said, "you shouldn't open with her waking up." It seems that the "rules" of opening, closing, and even writing a story in general, can be broken. There is a clear reason why I chose to have the book open in this way. As long as there is a clear and understandable reason, and the opening of the story flows well, I say open it however you want!
It's your story. Tell it in the manner you think suits it best!
Sunday, February 14, 2016
Surprise post! Happy Valentines Day!
Happy Valentines Day to all of my readers!
In honor of the day I thought I would pop on here and share a snippet from my modern romance set in Ireland. This is the story that I plan on shopping around and seeing if there is interest from an agent. This is the first time that the main characters meet!
Enjoy :)
In honor of the day I thought I would pop on here and share a snippet from my modern romance set in Ireland. This is the story that I plan on shopping around and seeing if there is interest from an agent. This is the first time that the main characters meet!
Enjoy :)
Birds were singing. Her eyes flicked to where sunlight
was streaming through the window. Where was she?
Blinking, it took her a moment to realize that she was
not in her apartment above the bakery. Milo was nowhere to be found, he was
half a world away.
And there were birds.
She managed to sit. Her ponytail had loosened itself
so that strands of blonde fell across her eyes. Somehow in her sleep she had
taken off her jeans, and half wrapped herself in the quilt.
Coffee, she needed coffee.
Rucking up the quilt more snugly around her waist, she
walked across the bare wooden floor to the little kitchen. And bless her heart
Aoife had a coffee pot on the counter! Tucking a wayward strand of hair behind
her ear, she searched the cabinets for a bag of coffee. After several minutes
of almost frantic searching, her efforts were rewarded with a small bag.
She sniffed at the grounds. Still pungent to her
senses with what she thought might be a bit of vanilla. She filled the pot and
set everything up to brew before shuffling back to the bed.
Her heart jumped when she heard her alarm go off on
her phone. She fumbled around in the blankets desperate to find the phone and
turn off the alarm. Finally she managed to narrow down the hiding spot of the
thing in the back pocket of her jeans.
The eleven o’ clock alarm was telling her it was time
to go to bed was blinking in large electric blue numbers. She stared at the screen for a few minutes
trying to compute. Her mind took some time to compute that she hadn’t set her
phone back. No smart phone for her; just a simple, indestructible, flip phone.
She would have to manually go in and change her home time zone.
Her mind shifted gears as she tried to do the math.
Ireland was six hours ahead of Chicago….it was 5 in the morning.
Finally she heard the noise that she loved to hear.
Fresh coffee hitting the bottom of the empty pot as it began to fill. She
breathed a sigh of relief; at least the coffee maker didn’t have a glitch or
need a trick to operate.
This time she left the quilt on the bed and padded to
the cupboards in search of a mug to fill with the coffee. Lifting the now full
mug to her nose, her ears barely registered that someone was outside of her
door until the door sprang open with a bang. The person opening the door was
momentarily hidden as the door swung toward her. Had she been prone to screaming,
she would have. Instead she could only stand frozen, her hands wrapped tightly
around the mug of coffee, her back against the cabinets, standing in only her
underwear and t-shirt.
In the space of a few heartbeats the figure pitched
forward into her still slightly dark loft. When it stood she could tell by the
outline that it was a man. When he turned in her direction, she didn’t yelp,
instead she flung the still hot coffee at him.
“EEH!” The figure blundered backward almost hitting
the table and chairs. “What was that afor?” The brogue was lilting and musical,
if not a little slurred.
“That was for barging in here!” She wished that she
had pants on, or at least the quilt to wrap up in. No use for it now. She
squared her shoulders and took a step forward.
“Get out!”
“Well, now, hang on a minute. Kenneth lets me crash up
here. This loft is mine too!” She watched as he wiped coffee from his face in
rough motion.
“Not when someone else is paying for it.” True, Aoife
hadn’t asked for anything, but Aubriee was not about to stay in at Bed and
Breakfast and not pay something for the time.
“Oh, I’m terribly sorry miss…” He ducked his head,
shaggy dark hair swinging as he turned towards the door. Before stepping through
he looked over his shoulder at her, “Never thought I’d like the color pink so
much.” He winked at her, and she promptly slammed the door in his smiling Irish
face.
If she hadn’t been so tired, and slightly jet lagged,
not to mention she had yet to have a cup of coffee, she probably would have
laughed. Instead she turned on her heel and poured another cup before locking
the door and heading to the shower.
Friday, February 12, 2016
15 Valentines date/gift ideas for the Writer in your life
1. Take them to a book store and let them pick out something new to read. (or maybe three)
2. Give them time alone to read.
3. Read the same book as them and discuss.
4. Watch their favorite movie that is based on a book or author.
5. A book they may have mentioned wanting/needing.
6. Do not be alarmed at the tears and squeals of joy when said book is produced.
7. Book scented candle...'nough said.
8. Time to write/brainstorm their next project, without interruption.
9. A meal prepared while they get distracted by said writing time.
10. Inquire how their latest project is going, and actually listen.
11. Fingerless gloves for writing on those cold days. (or if the heat hasn't been turned on yet)
12. Caffeine, in their preferred form of course. Coffee, Tea, Hot chocolate...
13. A laptop desk.
14. A new coffee mug or mouse pad.
15. Any book related jewelry.
2. Give them time alone to read.
3. Read the same book as them and discuss.
4. Watch their favorite movie that is based on a book or author.
5. A book they may have mentioned wanting/needing.
6. Do not be alarmed at the tears and squeals of joy when said book is produced.
7. Book scented candle...'nough said.
8. Time to write/brainstorm their next project, without interruption.
9. A meal prepared while they get distracted by said writing time.
10. Inquire how their latest project is going, and actually listen.
11. Fingerless gloves for writing on those cold days. (or if the heat hasn't been turned on yet)
12. Caffeine, in their preferred form of course. Coffee, Tea, Hot chocolate...
13. A laptop desk.
14. A new coffee mug or mouse pad.
15. Any book related jewelry.
Wednesday, February 10, 2016
First Dance
As some you may know, I got married in January. *Cue Cheering*
You can read about how we met here: http://malindaandrews.blogspot.com/2015/09/story-time-how-god-brought-my-husband.html
Many couples place emphasis, and rightly so, on the song that they first dance to. We were no different. In fact we actually had two songs! We were able to combine them, and I also walked down the aisle to one of them. The two that we picked were: A Thousand Years (the Peter & Evynne Hollens and Lindsey Stirling version), and Bless the Broken Road by Rascal Flatts. Let me explain why, at least to me, these two songs really capture how we met and how we feel about each other. I have added a link to each video under their heading.
Thousand Years.
From the moment we started messaging it was like we had known each other for all of our lives.
That feeling only intensified when we met. Seeing and meeting him for the first time, I felt my soul sigh, and say "there you are, I've been missing you and I didn't even know it". It wasn't that I needed my other half as I was a whole person, it was I had been missing my soul's mate. My soul is at rest when I am with him. And I had found him. We often say that we're looking forward to the next thousand now that we've found the other again.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rGMgdmrlZHM
Bless the Broken Road
This was a song that I had known about, and liked for quite awhile before meeting Josh. Growing up with parents who were soulmates actually made it more difficult to find someone to share my life with. I didn't just want a companion, or friend, or lover. I wanted the one that matched me. That respected, cared for, loved, and that complemented me. I had dated around, and even thought I had found that person before. But I was so wrong, and am so thankful I did not go through with that wedding and marriage. As the song says, "I'd like to have the time I lost and give it back to you." I wish that I had found him sooner, but I know that we were meant to meet when we did for a reason. We are not the same people we were before, and now we can grow and live life together.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7a47fEuB9vo
You can read about how we met here: http://malindaandrews.blogspot.com/2015/09/story-time-how-god-brought-my-husband.html
Many couples place emphasis, and rightly so, on the song that they first dance to. We were no different. In fact we actually had two songs! We were able to combine them, and I also walked down the aisle to one of them. The two that we picked were: A Thousand Years (the Peter & Evynne Hollens and Lindsey Stirling version), and Bless the Broken Road by Rascal Flatts. Let me explain why, at least to me, these two songs really capture how we met and how we feel about each other. I have added a link to each video under their heading.
Thousand Years.
From the moment we started messaging it was like we had known each other for all of our lives.
That feeling only intensified when we met. Seeing and meeting him for the first time, I felt my soul sigh, and say "there you are, I've been missing you and I didn't even know it". It wasn't that I needed my other half as I was a whole person, it was I had been missing my soul's mate. My soul is at rest when I am with him. And I had found him. We often say that we're looking forward to the next thousand now that we've found the other again.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rGMgdmrlZHM
Bless the Broken Road
This was a song that I had known about, and liked for quite awhile before meeting Josh. Growing up with parents who were soulmates actually made it more difficult to find someone to share my life with. I didn't just want a companion, or friend, or lover. I wanted the one that matched me. That respected, cared for, loved, and that complemented me. I had dated around, and even thought I had found that person before. But I was so wrong, and am so thankful I did not go through with that wedding and marriage. As the song says, "I'd like to have the time I lost and give it back to you." I wish that I had found him sooner, but I know that we were meant to meet when we did for a reason. We are not the same people we were before, and now we can grow and live life together.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7a47fEuB9vo
Sunday, February 7, 2016
February Review- Self Published Book
Just in time for Valentines day, my first self published book review happens to be a romance!
At the Madison Writer's Conference last year, I attended a lecture featuring self-published authors, and sisters, Christine Cacciatore & Jennifer Starkman. At the time I was just getting my feet wet in the self-publishing world, and these ladies were wonderful. Their talk was fun and chock full of information. I made a note to purchase both of their books as they sounded like great reads. So, almost a year later...I finally did! Their first novel is Baylyn, Bewitched and is it bewitching!
The synopsis from Amazon:
Baylyn Travers is a witch, wand and all, but no one knows. Magic has interfered with her dating in the past, and trust issues have kept her from true love. The quirky librarian falls hard for sexy Declan Hughes and the feeling is mutual. Will Declan still feel the same when he finds out Bay's biggest secret? After all, it's not every day you find out your girlfriend is a witch.
This book, though deceptively small, is really something. And before I get too much farther, there will be a few spoilers, though I will try to keep them to a minimum as I don't want to completely ruin the story!
The story started out well enough, like all romance seem to. Baylyn even has all the hallmarks of a woman who really has no interest in men based on her life experiences. (Aside: men can be pigs, but ladies can be pigs too!) Though having magic in the mix certainly does set this book apart! The opening scene when Baylyn meets Declan is really something. Throughout the entire book I felt like Baylyn was my friend. Just like any "normal" Midwestern girl would be. Her exclamations and observations of the world around her was so spot on, it was great.
I would have liked a bit more description of the town around her, maybe even a brief layout of the library she works at. I've seen a lot of different libraries with vastly different architecture, and it would have been fun to "see" where she works. Even her home seems glossed over in favor of the interactions between the characters.
Which is great. I not once felt that the dialogue was forced, or that the people acted out of character. If they did happen to act out of character there is always a reason. *coughs* Magic *coughs*
The magic system in this book is fantastic. Even though the magic seems almost an afterthought, I got the distinct impression that there was a rich backstory and world building done. It seeps through the pages in casual remarks or thoughts that some of the characters have.
This read extremely quickly, drawing you in from the start. I would have liked to see the book be a bit longer. Several months take place during the short book, and some events are glossed over. There were also a few typos present, but as a fellow Indie Author, it's hard to find all the little buggers! Nothing detracted from the story though, so they were easily glossed over.
Baylyn, Bewitched isn't your typical romance, and they have easily set up the next few books in the series. This book has tons of cute, hair pulling, cringe-worthy, "Ah-ha!", and loving moments. And boy, did those sisters get the feelings of love down pat! I think they both must have met their soul mates to be able to understand the feelings. Even to describe them.
I would recommend this book to any and everyone! 5/5 stars from me.
Link to the book on Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Baylyn-Bewitched-Whitfield-Witch-1/dp/1496143930/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=
*psssst* my second book is now available on Amazon. Be sure to get in on the epic-ness of the Incalescent Trilogy from the beginning!
http://www.amazon.com/Through-Mountains-Chronicles-Incalescent-Trilogy/dp/1512254967/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1452630467&sr=8-1&keywords=Through+the+Mountains
At the Madison Writer's Conference last year, I attended a lecture featuring self-published authors, and sisters, Christine Cacciatore & Jennifer Starkman. At the time I was just getting my feet wet in the self-publishing world, and these ladies were wonderful. Their talk was fun and chock full of information. I made a note to purchase both of their books as they sounded like great reads. So, almost a year later...I finally did! Their first novel is Baylyn, Bewitched and is it bewitching!
The synopsis from Amazon:
Baylyn Travers is a witch, wand and all, but no one knows. Magic has interfered with her dating in the past, and trust issues have kept her from true love. The quirky librarian falls hard for sexy Declan Hughes and the feeling is mutual. Will Declan still feel the same when he finds out Bay's biggest secret? After all, it's not every day you find out your girlfriend is a witch.
This book, though deceptively small, is really something. And before I get too much farther, there will be a few spoilers, though I will try to keep them to a minimum as I don't want to completely ruin the story!
The story started out well enough, like all romance seem to. Baylyn even has all the hallmarks of a woman who really has no interest in men based on her life experiences. (Aside: men can be pigs, but ladies can be pigs too!) Though having magic in the mix certainly does set this book apart! The opening scene when Baylyn meets Declan is really something. Throughout the entire book I felt like Baylyn was my friend. Just like any "normal" Midwestern girl would be. Her exclamations and observations of the world around her was so spot on, it was great.
I would have liked a bit more description of the town around her, maybe even a brief layout of the library she works at. I've seen a lot of different libraries with vastly different architecture, and it would have been fun to "see" where she works. Even her home seems glossed over in favor of the interactions between the characters.
Which is great. I not once felt that the dialogue was forced, or that the people acted out of character. If they did happen to act out of character there is always a reason. *coughs* Magic *coughs*
The magic system in this book is fantastic. Even though the magic seems almost an afterthought, I got the distinct impression that there was a rich backstory and world building done. It seeps through the pages in casual remarks or thoughts that some of the characters have.
This read extremely quickly, drawing you in from the start. I would have liked to see the book be a bit longer. Several months take place during the short book, and some events are glossed over. There were also a few typos present, but as a fellow Indie Author, it's hard to find all the little buggers! Nothing detracted from the story though, so they were easily glossed over.
Baylyn, Bewitched isn't your typical romance, and they have easily set up the next few books in the series. This book has tons of cute, hair pulling, cringe-worthy, "Ah-ha!", and loving moments. And boy, did those sisters get the feelings of love down pat! I think they both must have met their soul mates to be able to understand the feelings. Even to describe them.
I would recommend this book to any and everyone! 5/5 stars from me.
Link to the book on Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Baylyn-Bewitched-Whitfield-Witch-1/dp/1496143930/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=
*psssst* my second book is now available on Amazon. Be sure to get in on the epic-ness of the Incalescent Trilogy from the beginning!
http://www.amazon.com/Through-Mountains-Chronicles-Incalescent-Trilogy/dp/1512254967/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1452630467&sr=8-1&keywords=Through+the+Mountains
Friday, February 5, 2016
New Books Released, and a Book Sale!
Hello All!
I am very excited to announce that book two in the Incalescent Trilogy has been released!!
Across the Sea and Hills is available, and I am delighted to be able to share the next chapter in these character's stories! I was also able to release a novella containing not one, but TWO brand new short stories. Each one explores an event mentioned in the first two books. One follows Riona, and one centers on Aiden. Each recounts a key moment in their lives.
Aren't the covers awesome? Once again the artist did a fabulous job with bringing the characters to life.
The links to buy Across the Sea and Hills, as well as Fire and Snow are below and in the bibliography tab at the top of the blog.
http://www.amazon.com/Across-Sea-Hills-Chronicles-Incalescent/dp/1517286239/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1454513790&sr=8-2&keywords=malinda+Andrews
http://www.amazon.com/Fire-Snow-Dragon-Tales-Vol-ebook/dp/B01BAQ889W/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1454513790&sr=8-4&keywords=malinda+Andrews
Also! If you have not yet read the first book, Through the Mountains, it is on sale! The Kindle version is currently $.99! So go check it out at the link below :)
http://www.amazon.com/Through-Mountains-Chronicles-Incalescent-Trilogy/dp/1512254967/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1451313397&sr=8-1&keywords=through+the+mountains
I am very excited to announce that book two in the Incalescent Trilogy has been released!!
Across the Sea and Hills is available, and I am delighted to be able to share the next chapter in these character's stories! I was also able to release a novella containing not one, but TWO brand new short stories. Each one explores an event mentioned in the first two books. One follows Riona, and one centers on Aiden. Each recounts a key moment in their lives.
Aren't the covers awesome? Once again the artist did a fabulous job with bringing the characters to life.
The links to buy Across the Sea and Hills, as well as Fire and Snow are below and in the bibliography tab at the top of the blog.
http://www.amazon.com/Across-Sea-Hills-Chronicles-Incalescent/dp/1517286239/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1454513790&sr=8-2&keywords=malinda+Andrews
http://www.amazon.com/Fire-Snow-Dragon-Tales-Vol-ebook/dp/B01BAQ889W/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1454513790&sr=8-4&keywords=malinda+Andrews
Also! If you have not yet read the first book, Through the Mountains, it is on sale! The Kindle version is currently $.99! So go check it out at the link below :)
http://www.amazon.com/Through-Mountains-Chronicles-Incalescent-Trilogy/dp/1512254967/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1451313397&sr=8-1&keywords=through+the+mountains
Wednesday, February 3, 2016
Books for Writers Part 3
The end is in sight! Welcome back to the last post in the Books for Writers series. This last one is all about the books that I have found valuable as a self published author. Self publishing can be a difficult decision to make, and the road is not easy. These books have been a fount of information and inspiration.
The Little Red Writing Book by Brandon Royal
The Only Grammar Book You'll Ever Need by Susan Thurman
Chicken Soup for the Soul: Inspiration for Writers
2015 Guide to Self Publishing
Both The Little Red Writing Book and The Only Grammar Book You'll Ever Need are excellent. Each in their own right, but they are fabulous for quickly finding answers to questions on grammar and sentence structure. "Little Red" is not only concerned with grammar, but it has large sections about structure, style, and readability. Each of these sections are critical not only to writers, but especially to writers who decide to self publish as they don't have a team of editors and agents behind them. The book is written in an easy to understand, conversation like tone that makes it a pleasure to read.
The Only Grammar Book is every grammarian's dream. It details the parts of speech and includes a section on commonly confused words, as well as chapters on avoiding common errors, revising, and writing formats. This book is not only great for fiction writers, but also for any type of writing whether for research, blogs, or essays; this book has something for everyone.
The Chicken Soup for the Soul: Inspiration for Writers has been a bit of a rock for me. In every step of the self publishing process. It is the book that has helped me with rejection from a few agents, my first negative review, and even getting up the courage to self publish in the first place. If you want to raise the spirits of the writer in your life, this is the book to get. It is a balm to the writers soul when the hard things come up.
Guide to Self-Publishing is a book that every self-publisher needs on their shelf. Every year they come out with a new version, but really any recent version is the best. I purchased the new one last year before self-publishing, and it has been a life saver, especially when it comes to promotion. It has whole sections that break down the following:
Production- book cover, cover text, keys to a standout cover, tools for great covers, how to hire a freelance editor
Management- keeping manuscript safe, record keeping, pricing, self-publishing checklist
Promotion- platform challenges, building a platform, using public relations, speaking, creating an email newsletter, blogging, an using social media
There is even a section of listings of Self-Publishing companies, editorial services, freelance designers, and independent publicists.
This book is a "one stop shop" for all things Self-Publishing.
Thank you all for hanging in there for this series. I hope that you have found a few of these books helpful or at the very least intriguing. And as always, keep writing!
The Little Red Writing Book by Brandon Royal
The Only Grammar Book You'll Ever Need by Susan Thurman
Chicken Soup for the Soul: Inspiration for Writers
2015 Guide to Self Publishing
Both The Little Red Writing Book and The Only Grammar Book You'll Ever Need are excellent. Each in their own right, but they are fabulous for quickly finding answers to questions on grammar and sentence structure. "Little Red" is not only concerned with grammar, but it has large sections about structure, style, and readability. Each of these sections are critical not only to writers, but especially to writers who decide to self publish as they don't have a team of editors and agents behind them. The book is written in an easy to understand, conversation like tone that makes it a pleasure to read.
The Only Grammar Book is every grammarian's dream. It details the parts of speech and includes a section on commonly confused words, as well as chapters on avoiding common errors, revising, and writing formats. This book is not only great for fiction writers, but also for any type of writing whether for research, blogs, or essays; this book has something for everyone.
The Chicken Soup for the Soul: Inspiration for Writers has been a bit of a rock for me. In every step of the self publishing process. It is the book that has helped me with rejection from a few agents, my first negative review, and even getting up the courage to self publish in the first place. If you want to raise the spirits of the writer in your life, this is the book to get. It is a balm to the writers soul when the hard things come up.
Guide to Self-Publishing is a book that every self-publisher needs on their shelf. Every year they come out with a new version, but really any recent version is the best. I purchased the new one last year before self-publishing, and it has been a life saver, especially when it comes to promotion. It has whole sections that break down the following:
Production- book cover, cover text, keys to a standout cover, tools for great covers, how to hire a freelance editor
Management- keeping manuscript safe, record keeping, pricing, self-publishing checklist
Promotion- platform challenges, building a platform, using public relations, speaking, creating an email newsletter, blogging, an using social media
There is even a section of listings of Self-Publishing companies, editorial services, freelance designers, and independent publicists.
This book is a "one stop shop" for all things Self-Publishing.
Thank you all for hanging in there for this series. I hope that you have found a few of these books helpful or at the very least intriguing. And as always, keep writing!
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