The Wednesday Word

Author To Author’s Newsletter                                                    

June 19, 2014

Virtues of a Writer

 Humility in Writing

Humility: Being able to respect one's own limitations.

Doesn't sound very motivating, does it?

In the writing world, we are told by our peers to put our best foot forward and have no fear. To try, try, try, and never give up. Though it might seem confusing and contradictory, humility can play an essential role in your writing process.

Let's break down that definition a bit and see what value we can derive from it.

Respect.

Respecting yourself is key to any success you seek to achieve in life.

Respect one's own limits.

You know your limits. You know what tires you out or turns you off from the work you love.

Pushing yourself too hard by setting unrealistic expectations for yourself can lead to writer burn out pretty quickly. If your word count goals are dragging you down, take a break. If your promotional activities are too taxing, back off for a while. (Professionally, of course. If you have others depending on you, you need to be clear with them by letting them know what you are going through and notifying them of any changes you plan to make.)

Take a moment to sit down and accurately assess what you can and cannot do on a daily basis. Jumping on every opportunity that comes your way may seem like the road to success, but more often leads to unnecessary burdens that can put quite a damper on your fiery love of writing.

As a writer, I sometimes have trouble following my own advice. There have been plenty of times when I felt burnt out and needed a break. It's normal, you don't need to feel badly about it or let fear of failure consume you.  Respecting yourself enough to have humility means that you're giving yourself what you need in order to succeed.

By respecting your own limits, you can ensure that writing continues to be an enjoyable activity.

Do you have a hard time respecting your own limits?

What activities tend to lead to your own "burn out" as a writer?



By A2A Member and Contributor, Andrea Goodson. http://www.andreagoodson.wordpress.com   

Exciting News for Author to Author Group Members

Sydney Logan Releases Soldier On

Check out Sydney's website for the release of Soldier On this weekend!

 

 

 

 

 

Download Fireworks for Only 99cents

Lindsey Gray has permanently lowered the price of Fireworks to 99 cents! Check it out! http://lindsey-gray.blogspot.com/2014/06/birthday-celebration-fireworks.html

 T.M. Franklin Hosts Blog Tour and Giveaway

The How to Get Ainsley Bishop to Fall in Love with You Blog Tour and Giveaway continues through June 19th.  Up for grabs: TWO signed copies of Ainsley, THREE eBooks of the winners' choice from the TWCS library, a t-shirt, notebook and pen, and some other fun prizes!

Jennifer Garcia to Visit Long Beach Library

If you're in California this weekend, stop by and visit Jennifer at the Long Beach Library this Saturday, the 21st for a signing and panels with Jami Denise, Lorenz Font, and many others!

Jennifer was also chatting books on Hummingbird Place Blog Talk Radio this week. Click here to listen: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/.../2014/06/16/sweet-romances

Wednesday's Weird Word

Frigorific

Something frigorific causes cold or is chilling

Thank you for reading this edition of Author to Author's The Wednesday Word! Visit us again in two weeks for more news and savings to refresh your bookish pleasures! As always, feel free to share and spread the word! Have a wonderful day!

The Wednesday Word

Author To Author’s Newsletter                                                    

February 26, 2014

Author To Author's Newsletter is Changing

Inspiration

We've all heard it time and time again. "Inspiration comes, but it must find you working." So, what happens when your work is where you are lacking in the inspiration department? For writers, this can be especially difficult. Luckily, I consider simply day dreaming to be a working task. (One of the perks of being an author.) I stare blankly into space, the husband says something like "What are you thinking about?" and I can reply, "Shh, I'm working!"

Seriously though, nobody wants to waste their time staring blankly at a desk when trying to be inspired. So, when your job requires your imagination, I suggest that excercising that imagination is the "work" that must be done.

I like to do little things like go on walks and observe nature, that's usually enough to spark my imagination. However, when I am having an especially difficult time, I find that playing music helps me. In fact, I played my piano for an hour this morning simply trying to figure out the proper ending scene for To Be Loved. I had one in mind, ah yes. And thought it was a sure thing, it was all typed out, edited, and ready to go. But you all know how those pesky little characters can be, they like to change things up on you, take you by surprise. So, I find myself revising.....repeatedly.

On an occasion when music doesn't work I might move on to something like crafting. I'm a big do-it-yourselfer and working with my hands always helps me to clear my mind. Whether it's refinishing a piece of furniture or painting a canvas (With stencils, mind you. I'm no Picasso.) eventually the creative juices start flowing.

Last but definitely not least, my last resort is always the same thing. Food. I love food. Not Like, LOVE. I could eat for days, probably continuously if it wouldn't make me sick.  I like to cook and try out new recipes and of course while doing so, I begin to imagine a scene that could find a place in my story. However, be warned. Snacking while writing can be hazardous, I practically aspirated a chili cheese Frito just a few moments ago.

So, what say you? What do you do to find inspiration?



By A2A Contributor Andrea Goodson www.andreagoodson.wordpress.com

Exciting News for Author to Author Group Members

Join T.M. Franklin for a Cover Reveal

Author T.M. Franklin is presenting the cover for Who is Ainsley Bishop on March 1st, don't miss it! http://www.tmfranklin.com/index.php/blog/who-ainsley-bishop-finally-answer/

Check Out R.E. Hargrave's Latest Novella

Take a look at Unchained Melody, a military novella. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20839842-unchained-melody

April Emerson's Novel Goes on PreSale

Check out April's blog for link to preorder The Righteous & The Wicked now! http://aprilemerson.blogspot.com/2014/02/pre-sale.html?zx=47db010d365288bf

 

Join Andrea Goodson in a Fight for Hearts

Andrea Goodson still has a few days left in the Fight for Hearts campaign to aid Unlikely Heroes.  Visit her website to find out more. www.andreagoodson.wordpress.com

Wednesday's Weird Word

Blunderbuss

A gun with a flared muzzle or disorganized activity

Thank you for reading this edition of Author to Author's The Wednesday Word! Visit us again in two weeks for more news and savings to refresh your bookish pleasures! As always, feel free to share and spread the word! Have a wonderful day!

The Wednesday Word

Author To Author’s Newsletter                                                    

February 12, 2014

Author To Author's Newsletter is Changing

If Not You... Then Who?

This is a question I have found myself struggling with lately. Every time that perfect idea strikes and it seems to get added to the never ending list of things I want to do. Or, things I should do. Or perhaps, the things I must do.

As writers, I am sure we all have so many fantastic ideas that our minds feel as though they are about to burst at the seams. Whether it be plot ideas, character traits, new strategies for marketing and promotion, or how we can positively use our platform, all of these ideas take up quite a vast amount of space in our imagination. So much so that it becomes extremely easy to become overwhelmed.

The feeling of being overwhelmed can be more stressful and tiring than actually accomplishing the idea you have in mind. When this happens, I find my "idea notebook" to be of great use. I keep my notebook divided into sections with enough room to include step by step instructions for myself. These instructions dictate how I will go about completing whichever task it is that I have set out to accomplish. I find that lists tend to keep the mind uncluttered.

My newest idea came to me while watching a program about human trafficking a few weeks ago. This idea isn't for a book and it isn't for promotion. With over 2,000 Facebook followers I feel a moral responsibility to use my platform in a way which will positively impact our world. Yes, I realize 2,000 isn't some astronomical number and that there are plenty of other authors around who have a much larger fan base than that. Still, how can I have access to so many human beings and not try to spread the word about something so horrific?

With everything that is going on in life, day-to-day chores, working, being a fulltime wife and mother, writing and rewriting my current work in progress, as well as the many promotional tasks I sig myself up for, I had to wonder... How can I effectively make a difference?

So I busted out the idea notebook and went to work.

That's when I came up with the idea of raising money for Unlikely Heroes. They are a fantastic organization that not only spreads the word about the millions of children in human slavery around the world, but also rescues and rehabilitates these victims! After talking with their Program Manager, I started the February Fight for Hearts Campaign.

During the month of February all proceeds from my books sales as well as donations to the campaign will be sent directly to Unlikely Heroes.

I haven't had a huge influx of donations yet and I barely have the time to keep up with it. But does that mean I shouldn't try? Does that mean I should leave this task for someone else who might be able to devote more energy to the cause?

No.

Because the same is true with this scenario as is true with all of our ideas. When we come up with that book that absolutely must be written, we have to find a way to do it. Because if not you...then who?

If you'd like to participate and put an end to this worldwide atrocity you can donate here.

Exciting News for Author to Author Group Members

T.M. Franklin Hosts Giveaway

Author T.M. Franklin is hosting a giveaway from February 13-19! Take a look and enter to win! http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/5c62db24/

Many readers have been wondering Who is Ainesly Bishop? Find out on February 17th! www.tmfranklin.com

T.M. is also offering her novella, Window, free from February 11-15! Download your copy today! http://www.amazon.com/Window-T-M-Franklin-ebook/dp/B00BU7TYBS

Jeanne McDonald Offers Giveaway and FREE Download

Join Jeanne for a Goodreads giveaway running now through March 3rd. https://www.goodreads.com/giveaway/show/79912-the-truth-in-lies

You can also download A Ray of Hope for free between February 21-25! http://www.amazon.com/Ray-Hope-Jeanne-McDonald-ebook/dp/B00D7L9BXG

Join Sydney Logan's Stupid Cupid Gieaway

Author Sydney Logan is holding a giveaway now through Valentine's Day! Don't miss your chance to enter! http://www.sydneylogan.com/2014/02/cover-reveal-stupid-cupid-by-sydney.html

Enter Sydney Logan's Valentine's Giveaway

This giveaway is live and goes until February 1st! Take a look and enter to win! http://www.sydneylogan.com/p/giveaways.html

Join Sandi Layne for a Blog Tour and a Sweet Deal

Follow along on Part Deux of Sandi's blog tour! http://sandyquill.com/2014/02/06/blog-tour-part-deux/

Don't miss the new release of Justin's Second Chance. It will be available on Valentine's Day for a low 99 cents! http://ph.thewriterscoffeeshop.com/books/detail/134

Visit Goodreads to enter April Emerson's Giveaway

Take a look and enter The Righteous and The Wicked Giveaway on Goodreads! https://www.goodreads.com/giveaway/show/79358-the-righteous-and-the-wicked

Don't miss the new book trailer for April's book which goes live on February 14th! www.aprilemerson.blogspot.com

Wednesday's Weird Word

Doohickey

unspecified object or small device, especially a mechanical one.

Thank you for reading this edition of Author to Author's The Wednesday Word! Visit us again in two weeks for more news and savings to refresh your bookish pleasures! As always, feel free to share and spread the word! Have a wonderful day!

The Wednesday Word

Author To Author’s Newsletter                                                    

January 29, 2014

Author To Author's Newsletter is Changing

Sometimes Quantity is Quality...

The Author to Author newsletter is changing. We are excited about the new format and publishing schedule and hope you will be too!

The Wednesday Word has been issued on a weekly basis for about four months now. Though many people look forward to the weekly updates, exciting news, and book deals, we feel that changing the newsletter to a monthly publication will help with quality content as well as offer something with a bit more substance for our readers.

Starting in February, The Wednesday Word will be issued on the second Wednesday of each month. This will allow our authors more time to create some amazing sales for all of you while also giving you, our readers, a newsletter full of good news, deals, savings, and some great articles on writing and publishing!

We hope you will continue to follow along on a monthly basis and appreciate the larger newsletter you will be receiving.

As always, A2A is extremely thankful for our readers and supporters. We invite you to look forward to the first monthly edition of The Wednesday Word on February 12, 2014!

Exciting News for Author to Author Group Members

Join Sherri Hayes for a Read-A-Long

Join Author Sherri Hayes for a read-a-long of her Finding Anna series. Starts February 4th! https://www.facebook.com/groups/1379434072295837/

Follow Eire's Viking on Tour

Author Sandi Layne invites you to follow the book tour of her new release, Eire's Viking! http://sandyquill.com/2014/01/17/book-tour-eires-viking/

Enter Sydney Logan's Valentine's Giveaway

This giveaway is live and goes until February 1st! Take a look and enter to win! http://www.sydneylogan.com/p/giveaways.html

Angel Lawson's Cover Reveal

Check out the cover for the third book in Angel's Wraith series, Grave Possession! http://www.angellawson.com/cover-reveal-grave-possession-by-angel-lawson/

Visit Goodreads to enter April Emerson's Giveaway

Starting Saturday, you can enter The Righteous and The Wicked Giveaway on Goodreads! https://www.goodreads.com/giveaway/show/79358-the-righteous-and-the-wicked

Wednesday's Weird Word

Deray

to provoke disorder, disturbance, tumult or confusion.

Thank you for reading this edition of Author to Author's The Wednesday Word! Visit us again next month for more news and savings to refresh your bookish pleasures! As always, feel free to share and spread the word! Have a wonderful day!

The Wednesday Word

Author To Author’s Newsletter                                                    

January 22, 2014

Writing & Publishing Tips

It's All About Perspective...

…And yours is probably pretty screwed up.

But no worries, you’re not alone. So is mine.

This might read like some what of a rant, but here we go…

At some point in time, throughout life, all of us will pass judgement on someone else. Every single one of us. Yes, that includes you. Even if you claim to be the most nonjudgemental person in the world, at some point you WILL pass a judgement on another person. Even if that judgement is you assuming that person to be too judgemental.

This is really okay. Judgements are based upon opinions, standards, morals, and how we were raised. But, most importantly I believe judgements are based upon perspective.

Wherever you happen to be in your adventure of life is going to greatly affect how you see the world.
Whether you are highly successful in your endeavors, or dangling at the end of a very short rope. Your placement in the world, society, and life will create your view.

I’m sure we all have had many people come into our lives who assume that they know much about what transpires in our day-to-day activities. And I must say that 95% of the time, their perspective is either warped, misunderstood, or just blatantly false. But rather than lash out or defend ourselves, as much as we all love to blame people for being wrong about their assumptions, let’s take a moment instead to look at it from their perspective. After all, it’s them not having the ability to place themselves in our shoes that leads to the false assumptions and misunderstandings in the first place, correct?

So, take off your judgey face…

 

(This is your judgey face.)

 

…and take some time to reflect.

If there are people out there who seem to think that they know what is best for you, what you should be doing instead of what you are doing, or simply can’t seem to believe or understand a situation you are going through, perhaps if we try to see things from their point of view, not only will we understand them better, but we might just set a great example as to how they should try to see things as well.

So, problem solved. Right?

Wrong.

Unfortunately, the judgement doesn’t stop here. Presumptuous expectations seem to reach on into the fictional world as well.

No?

Oh, come on. Admit it, you judge the actions of every fictional character you read about. In fact, I’m willing to bet you might just be judging this post right now. You’re probably silently judging the author as well, thinking to yourself “Well, why would they say that?” or in a book, “I could have come up with a different ending that suited the story better.”

And you know what, you’re right. You probably could have. The great thing about fiction and novels is that they tell a story, a complicated story, from one person’s perspective. Now if that same story were told by another author, one with different life experiences than the first, the story might take place differently.

This is what is absolutely wonderful about books! That one can tell the same story that a million other authors have already told, yet it will be different and unique, set apart from all the others. This is also what connects fiction to real life.

In Riverbend, I have a character, Lena, who struggles endlessly with grief and trust. Some readers love her character while other have left reviews complaining about her being too weak or “whiney”.

Well, guess what?

We aren’t all Lara Croft from Tomb Raider, ok? Some women are weak at times. Some people are vulnerable. Not every woman is some super human, kick butt chick who doesn’t care about anything.

I am already prepared for the opinions I will receive about Avery from my WIP, To Be Loved. She is young, confused, and well, let’s just say kind of an idiot. But isn’t that the whole point? That we are all kind of an idiot at some point in time? That we find our way through life and we enjoy reading about characters who must do the same?

I hope so. I hope there isn’t an entire group of people out there who have it all figured out, have all the answers, and here I am left out in the cold.

Anyway, back to the point. Some readers don’t like that my character Lena is vulnerable and confused. But I’m willing to bet that all has to do with their perspective on life. Try not to take it to heart when a reader doesn't unconditionally love one of your characters. The judgements they make actually greatly reflect their personality. Which is really kind of cool. Because that means that somehow, our writing has brought a part of that reader’s personality to light and in print on our book pages.

Yeah, I think that’s kind of neat.

But hey, that’s just my perspective.

By Author to Author Member and Contributor, Andrea Goodson. You can learn more about Andrea on her website, www.andreagoodson.wordpress.com

Exciting News for Author to Author Group Members

Release of Eire's Viking

Sandi Layne is about to release the sequel to Eire's Captive Moon. Make sure you get your hands on a copy of Eire's Viking. This is happening....TOMORROW! Don't miss it! http://ph.thewriterscoffeeshop.com/books/detail/118

Signed Books Now Available

Author R.E. Hargrave has made signed books available to readers via direct order! Take a look! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1-ksYYtDCM3xvtY2k0lBA6e7VwV_MUZ_7wPzN4SwjcdQ/viewform

Wednesday's Weird Word

Deliquescent

Something with the ability to dissolve or melt away substances.

Thank you for reading this week's edition of Author to Author's The Wednesday Word! Visit us again in two weeks for more news and savings to refresh your bookish pleasures! As always, feel free to share and spread the word! Have a wonderful holiday!

The Wednesday Word

Author To Author’s Newsletter                                                    

November 6, 2013

Writing & Publishing Tips

Using Strange Words

This is part two of a three-part series on Researching and Writing Historical Fiction originally written in 2012.
 

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How to Best Use Appropriate Terminology in Historical Fiction

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As a child, I was taught to use proper terms for everything.  When I had a question about what a word meant, my mother would send me to (drumroll, please) The Dictionary.  This 1935 dictionary was about five inches thick and weighed…well, I don’t know how much it weighed, but it was heavy. And it was my best friend all the way through my undergrad studies.

 

When I began writing fiction (in my thirties, but early training can stick with one) the insistence upon using the proper terms, with full knowledge regarding their appropriate application, was important to me.  But, like most any nerdy know-it-all, I tended to overuse all that I knew at first.

Don’t Overwhelm

Readers of historical fiction want to have a flavor for the era in which they find themselves. An historical tale about the Scottish Highlands, for example, should definitely mention men in kilts.  They will want to hear a bit of an accent, too.  Some “braw shoulders” would not go amiss. Nor do “yon brogues” in the mention of footwear.  Readers want to know if the claymore is the weapon of choice in a battle. They might even be interested to know it is sometimes more accurately written as claidheamh mòr.

 

Terms like these are enough to flavor the historical fiction story.  Using too many, however, is like adding far too much cumin to your curry, garlic powder to your stuffing, or gravy to your mashed potatoes. The essence of the story is overwhelmed by the accents.  This is not a good idea.

Speaking in Tongues

Hard and fast rules about characters speaking in their “native tongues” are not to be found, but there are some common sense notions on this subject.  Remember, as a writer, that your first priority is to share a story with your readers.  To that end, your narrative should flow and dialogue (internal and external) should suit the characters.  You should endeavor not to draw a reader out of the story if possible.

 

It is fun to hear a character speaking the occasional word in “their” language.  An occasional word of Irish Gaelic (Gaeilge) or Old Norse or Latin is flavorful.  Readers will enjoy knowing that a woman’s long tunic/dress is a léine, but they probably don’t need to hear an entire conversation about pulling teeth in Gaeilge.

 

Another concern some authors might find is when to use native languages. Should the reader only read the words as “foreign” when the characters speak or should the words be sprinkled throughout unspoken narrative?  This is purely author’s choice (at least until your editors get a crack at your manuscript), but remember that if one is hearing a “foreign” word, it isn’t always comprehensible.

Keep it Real

As I mentioned earlier, I tended to be a nerdy know-it-all when I first started writing historical pieces. (Some might argue that I still am!) For history geeks like myself, there is a certain kind of joy in sharing the minutiae one encounters during research.  Words that were hard to find to suit a situation, a rare term or expression indigenous to a people or place, newly-discovered slang—these things can make the true history geek giggle gleefully as they seek paths where the new information can be shared.

 

Which is fine, when it works.  A scene can be structured to include the new findings, true, but as a writer, you want to make sure (again) that the focus is on your story rather than the accents you bring to it.  Keep the flow organic, natural, not forced just to include the new information.  Historical fiction is storytelling.  Educational? Sure.  But remember that the goal is not to teach a college course in, say, Koine, a Greek language.  The goal is to tell the story about people that might speak that language.  Make sure the terms and language usage are “real” for that time and purpose, not forced to conform to some new—and extremely cool!—information you found in your research.

 

When your readers reach “The End” you want them to come away satisfied, intrigued about a different time and place.  You want them to feel as if they’ve been immersed in a new experience, but not uncomfortably so.  Bring them with you, but don’t overwhelm them with details.

 

If you find that, after your story is complete, you still have a lot you want to share?  Blog it! Because there are history geeks out there just like me who will want to read what you’ve found.  We’ll all benefit and have a good time, which is really what it’s all about.

 

By Author to Author Member and Contributor, Sandi Layne. You can learn more about Sandi on her website, http://sandyquill.com

Exciting News for Author to Author Group Members

Ninety-Nine in November

Author L.V. Lewis has put her first book in the Ghetto Girl Romance Quadrilogy on sale for 99 cents the entire month of November! If you are a Fifty Shades fan and would like an exciting twist from a cultural perspective, then this book is for you! Check it out! http://www.amazon.com/Shades-Jungle-Ghetto-Romance-Quadrilogy-ebook/dp/B009ZL7DJQ

 

Author Lindsey Gray's Cover Reveal

Lindsey Gray has revealed the cover to her upcoming new release, Not The Same Season. Take a look at her blog to see this fantastic cover and read an excerpt! http://lindsey-gray.blogspot.com/?zx=6b126e5e8f412c90

 

T.M. Franklin to Release The Guardians TOMORROW!

The highly anticipated sequel to MORE will be available for purchase tomorrow! Stay tuned to T.M.'s website for the buy links or to preorder a signed copy! http://www.tmfranklin.com/

Andrea Goodson to Reveal Cover for To Be Loved

Join author Andrea Goodson on Thursday, November 26th as she reveals the cover to her upcoming YA new release, To Be Loved! You can also enter for a chance to win a signed paperback! All bloggers are invited to participate. Contact Andrea via her website for more information. www.andreagoodson.wordpress.com. *Note: Cover Reveal date has been changed from 11/7/13 to 11/26/13*

Wednesday's Weird Word

Cabotage

Definition: coastal navigation; the exclusive right of a country to control the air traffic within its borders


Origin: Greek/ French

Savvy Savings

Love in Disguise

7 Romance Novel Set on Sale for 99 cents!

By Multiple Authors, take a look!

http://www.amazon.com/Love-Disguise-Romance-Boxed-ebook/dp/B00FQMZB1A

Thank you for reading this week's edition of Author to Author's, The Wednesday Word! Visit us again next week for more news and savings to refresh your bookish pleasures! As always, feel free to share and spread the word!

The Wednesday Word

Author To Author’s Newsletter                                                    

October 2, 2013

"I'm so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers."

- Anne of Green Gables

Happy October, everyone! There are many exciting things happening this month for Author to Author members, take a look!

Writing & Publishing Tips

Did you always want to be a writer?

 

I was doing a radio interview about a year ago and the host asked if I’d always wanted to be a writer. The simple answer to that is a resounding no. Becoming a writer was never a consideration for me growing up. Why? First of all, I suck at English. Some of you are probably laughing right about now, but it’s true. Even today, when my editor tries to explain grammar rules to me, my eyes glaze over. English is not one of my strengths.

 

As a child, I had stories in my head. I just never wrote any of them down. As an adult, I gravitated toward customer service jobs---ones where good communication was essential. I think these two things, combined with my love of reading romances, have helped to make me a better writer. I understand how to break things down and explain them to someone who may not normally understand the situation. That’s a great skill to have as an author, and one I’m forever grateful to have.

 

Although I may never understand all the technical aspects of writing, I try to concentrate on my strengths. We all have them. We all have weakness too. It’s part of life and what makes us unique.

By Author to Author Member and Contributor Sherri Hayes. You can learn more about Sherri and her books at http://www.sherrihayesauthor.com/

Exciting News for Author to Author Group Members

Lissa Bryan Hosts Ghost Story Contest

To celebrate the one year Book Birthday of Lissa Bryan's, Ghost Writer, she is hosting a ghost story contest! Visit Lissa's blog for information on how to enter, rules, and bust out your notebook and pen! There are some fantastic prizes at stake! The winner will be chosen on Halloween! http://www.lissabryan.com/2013/09/ghost-story-contest.html

You can also join the TWCS Book Club on Facebook to discus Ghostwriter with Lissa the entire month of October! https://www.facebook.com/events/601835033192271/

Book Birthday & Release Blitz Giveaway

Author Andrea Goodson is celebrating the one year book birthday of the first novel in The Riverbend Trilogy on Saturday October 5th! The party will kickoff with a Rafflecopter giveaway on her blog and continue with a Pre-release Extravaganza on Facebook, all leading up to the new release of Riverbend: The Collection on October 8th! Join Andrea in her celebration and enter to win some great prizes! https://www.facebook.com/andreagoodsonbooks

Fall Into Reading Giveaway Winner Announced

The Fall Into Reading Giveaway was a great success with over 8,000 entries! Congratulations to Sandy Shairer on winning the $25.00 Amazon gift card. Thank you to all who participated!    

Allie Jean and T.M. Franklin Host Vine Challenge

Are you an Instagram junkie? Don't feel bad, most of use are! Take a look at Allie Jean and T.M. Franklin's websites to enter the Vine Challenge and win a prize pack of books! The contest runs September 12th to October 17th! http://alliejean.net/ and http://www.tmfranklin.com/

 

New Release for Allie Jean- Dreams of the Cursed

The long awaited sequel to Legacy of a Dreamer will be released tomorrow, Thursday October 3rd! You can preorder today through the TWCS website, http://ph.thewriterscoffeeshop.com/books/detail/101 and learn all about Dreams of the Cursed on Allie's website- www.alliejean.net

Signed Paperbacks Available from Sydney Logan

Want a little bit of personalization in your book collection? Take advantage of this limited opportunity to order a signed paperback from Author Sydney Logan! Visit Sydney's website to find out more. http://www.sydneylogan.com/2013/09/signed-paperbacks-available.html

Happy Anniversary, MORE

Author T.M. Franklin is celebrating the one year book birthday of MORE by making Window, a novella, FREE from 10/7-11/2013! Be sure to get your download! http://www.amazon.com/Window-ebook/dp/B00BU7TYBS

She is also running a giveaway starting 10/4/2013, visit T.M.'s website to enter! http://www.tmfranklin.com/

Book Signing with Sherri Hayes

Visit Author Sherri Hayes on October 10th from 6:00-9:00pm at the Eldechrist Winery in Plain City, Ohio for a book signing! Learn more here, http://www.eldchrist.com/

Wednesday's Weird Word

Carwichet

Definition: a pun, a hoaxing question or a conundrum.

Origin: French

Savvy Savings

We seem to be running low on coupons this week, but take a look at the ultra low-priced reads hand picked by A2A members on Kindle! *covers are never posted without permission from the author*

As She Left It by Catriona McPherson

4.5 STARS $1.99

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CS73IAW

Emma's Secret by Steena Holmes

4 STARS $1.99

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BAZ4YBK/

Finding Bliss by Dina Silver

4 STARS $1.99

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BFICI6K

Thank you for reading this week's edition of Author to Author's, The Wednesday Word! Visit us again next week for more news and savings to refresh your bookish pleasures! As always, feel free to share and spread the word!

The Wednesday Word

Author To Author’s Newsletter                                                    

September 25, 2013

Writing & Publishing Tips

Reader Reviews:The Good, The Bad, and How to Handle It All

 

When I signed my publishing contract for my debut novel, Lessons Learned, one of the first questions I was asked on my marketing form was about unfavorable reviews and how I would react to them. Of course, I had heard horror stories about one-star reviews that could rip an author’s dreams to shreds. I’d also heard about “bad author behavior” where the author would engage with a reviewer in a negative way. But I had never really considered how I would react to it.

 

Lessons Learned was definitely my baby. My blood, sweat, and many, many tears went into the book. It is a sweet love story with undertones of religious and social issues. The subject is timely and somewhat controversial, so I expected some reactions. For the most part, I’ve received nothing but wonderfully supportive reviews. Sure, there have been reviews I’ve disagreed with, or wished I could talk to the reviewer and explain something that perhaps wasn’t clear to them, but I never have. The honest truth is that the very best reaction to a negative review is no reaction at all. At least not publicly.

Still, authors need to vent from time to time. When I say my husband is my “Lucas,” it’s not an exaggeration. If I receive a negative review, he hears about it. He keeps me calm and reminds me to pay attention to all of the positive reviews and ignore the few negative. One bad apple shouldn’t spoil the bunch, they say, and in this case, that’s true. That’s not to say all negative reviews are toxic. Some can be constructive. If they are, take what they say and use it to grow as a writer. I had a reviewer tell me that Sarah and Lucas’s love story in Lessons Learned was overshadowed by Matt’s struggle with bullying. To me, that was constructive and reminds me to be more balanced in my writing. I had another reviewer (in a review for one of my short stories) say that my story wasn’t worth the .99¢ she paid for it. Needless to say, that particular review wasn’t constructive at all. As an author, you really have to find your happy place when it comes to dealing with reviews. Not everyone is going to love your book. Accept this. Embrace it. But someone will love it. Most importantly, you will love it, and at the end of the day, that’s the one review that truly matters.

By Author to Author member and Contributor Sydney Logan. You can learn more about Sydney and her books at www.sydneylogan.com

Exciting News for Author to Author Group Members

 

Lissa Bryan Hosts Ghost Story Contest

To celebrate the one year Book Birthday of Lissa Bryan's, Ghost Writer, she is hosting a ghost story contest! Visit Lissa's blog for information on how to enter, rules, and bust out your notebook and pen! There are some fantastic prizes at stake! The winner will be chosen on Halloween! http://www.lissabryan.com/2013/09/ghost-story-contest.html You can also join the TWCS Book Club on Facebook to discus Ghostwriter with Lissa the entire month of October! https://www.facebook.com/events/601835033192271/  

Cover Reveal of Riverbend: The Collection

Stay tuned to Andrea Goodson's blog to see the cover reveal for Riverbend: The Collection on Friday September 27th! It's almost Riverbend's first Book Birthday! In celebration, Andrea Goodson is rereleasing the entire trilogy, Riverbend, Rapid Water, and Waking Tide, as a one-book boxed set at a low promotional price the week of October 6th! Connect with Andrea on Facebook or her Website for fun events and giveaways over the next few weeks. www.andreagoodson.wordpress.com  

Fall into Reading Giveaway!

Stay tuned to Author to Author's Blog for the upcoming Fall Into Reading Giveaway! Enter for a chance to win a $25.00 Giftcard! Giveaway takes place September 22-29. Don't miss it! www.author-to-author-blog.blogspot.com    

Sherri Hayes Hosts Newsletter Contest

Want a chance to win a bookmark from Sherri's book, Behind Closed Doors. Visit her blog and sign up for her newsletter to enter! While you're there take a look around and explore some of her other work...that is if you like sensual romance. Who doesn't?
http://sherri-hayes.blogspot.com/2013/09/weekly-update-contest-announcement.html?zx=71f71efc3854ef20

Book Signing With Sydney Logan

Join up with author Sydney Logan to get your books signed on Saturday September 28th in Huntsville, TN! Sydney will be visiting the Museum of Scott County's Heritage Festival! http://www.sydneylogan.com/2013/09/heritage-festival-book-signing.html

Allie Jean and T.M. Franklin Host Vine Challenge

Are you an Instagram junkie? Don't feel bad, most of use are! Take a look at Allie Jean and T.M. Franklin's websites to enter the Vine Challenge and win a prize pack of books! The contest runs September 12th to October 17th! http://alliejean.net/ and http://www.tmfranklin.com/

Allie Jean to Release Dreams of the Cursed

The long awaited sequel to Legacy of a Dreamer is due for release next week on October 3rd! You can preorder today through the TWCS website. http://ph.thewriterscoffeeshop.com/books/detail/101

Wednesday's Weird Word

Alexipharmic  

Definition: Having the quality or nature of an antidote to poison. Origin: Greek

Savvy Savings

We seem to be running low on coupons this week, but take a look at the ultra low-priced reads hand picked by A2A members on Kindle!

*covers are never posted without permission from the author*

Windswept by Fran McNab
4.5 STARS $0.99
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008RBSO3Y/

Disenchanted by Robert Kroese
4 STARS $1.99
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009KP9VJ2/

The Laws of Gravity by Liz Rosenberg
4 STARS $1.99
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00A7GK4TE/

Thank you for reading this week's edition of Author to Author's, The Wednesday Word! Visit us again next week for more news and savings to refresh your bookish pleasures! As always, feel free to share and spread the word!

The Wednesday Word - September 18, 2013

Author To Author’s Newsletter                                                    

September 18, 2013

Writing & Publishing Tips

Picking a Title

Finding the right title for my books is something I spend a lot of time contemplating. Often a title doesn’t come to me for a particular book until I sit down to write the book blurb for my publisher.

Need and Truth, books two and three in my Finding Anna series, were like this. The right title wasn’t coming to me no matter how many minutes—hours—I spent thinking about it. I was at a total loss. I was discussing Finding Anna, Book 2 with my editor one day, and she suggested I go ahead and write book summaries for marketing, and see if a title came to me. Sure enough, after I finished, I noticed a theme. Need. Could she be what he needed? Could he be what she needed? Could they find what they needed in each other?

Red Zone, my newest novel, was the exact opposite. I knew even before I started writing what the title would be. The hero, Gage Daniels, is a professional football player. I knew I wanted to utilize a football reference in the title, I just had to find the one that would be the best fit. It’s a romantic suspense novel, and I wanted something that would reflect that. In football, the red zone is the stretch of field between the twenty yard line, and the end zone. They are the last yards that stand between the offense putting points on the board. It’s the part of the field that either makes or breaks a team. They pull together and score, or they fall apart, and lose the precious opportunity.

Every story is different, but for me, it’s important to take the time to find the right title for a book. It should say something about the story whether it be the overall theme, or something more vague. Either way, the title should mean something, and shouldn’t be rushed. It’s better to take the time to find a title that works, than to pick something generic that has no meaning.

By Author to Author Member and Contributor, Sherri Hayes. You can learn more about Sherri and her book at http://www.sherrihayesauthor.com/

Exciting News for Author to Author Group Members

Lissa Bryan Hosts Ghost Story Contest

To celebrate the one year Book Birthday of Lissa Bryan's, Ghost Writer, she is hosting a ghost story contest! Visit Lissa's blog for information on how to enter, rules, and bust out your notebook and pen! There are some fantastic prizes at stake! The winner will be chosen on Halloween! http://www.lissabryan.com/2013/09/ghost-story-contest.html

Andrea Goodson to Rerelease The Riverbend Trilogy

It's almost Riverbend's first Book Birthday! In celebration, Andrea Goodson is rereleasing the entire trilogy, Riverbend, Rapid Water, and Waking Tide, as a one-book boxed set the week of October 6th! Any bloggers interested in reviewing the entire collection prior to rerelease are invited to contact Andrea via Facebook or Website for an ARC. www.andreagoodson.wordpress.com

Sydney Logan's 2000 Likes Giveaway

Sydney Logan has hit 2000 Likes on her Facebook page! She is still celebrating and hosting an amazing giveaway with books and swag from some awesome authors! Visit her website to enter! http://www.sydneylogan.com/p/giveaways.html

 

Fall into Reading Giveaway!

Stay tuned to Author to Author's Blog for the upcoming Fall Into Reading Giveaway! Enter for a chance to win a $25.00 Giftcard! Giveaway takes place September 22-29. Don't miss it! www.author-to-author-blog.blogspot.com    

Sherri Hayes Hosts Newsletter Contest

Want a chance to win a bookmark from Sherri's book, Behind Closed Doors? Visit her blog and sign up for her newsletter to enter! While you're there take a look around and explore some of her other work...that is if you like sensual romance. Who doesn't? http://sherri-hayes.blogspot.com/2013/09/weekly-update-contest-announcement.html?zx=71f71efc3854ef20

Allie Jean and T.M. Franklin Host Vine Challenge

Are you an Instagram junkie? Don't feel bad, most of use are! Take a look at Allie Jean and T.M. Franklin's websites to enter the Vine Challenge and win a prize pack of books! The contest runs September 12th to October 17th! http://alliejean.net/ and http://www.tmfranklin.com/

Allie Jean To Release New Book Trailer

Author Allie Jean is all set to release the book trailer of Book 2 in The Dreamer series...tomorrow! Visit her website to watch! http://alliejean.net

Lorenz Font Releases Tormented

The second book in Lorenz Font's The Gates Legacy has been released! Check out Lorenz's website to read the summary and check out the first book in her series, Hunted! http://lorenzfont.com

Wednesday's Weird Word

Borborygmus

This one sounds as though it should be from the world of Harry Potter!

Definition: Medical term, referring to a rumbling in the gut. Origin: French, Latin, Greek

Savvy Savings

We seem to be running low on coupons this week, but take a look at the ultra low-priced reads hand picked by A2A members on Kindle! *covers are never posted without permission from the author*

Katrina, The Beginning by Elizabeth Lorraine

4 STARS $0.99

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B004K1EVY6/

Gingerbread Man by Maggie Shayne

4.5 STARS FREE

http://www.amazon.com/Gingerbread-Man-ebook/dp/B00EHI1MDK/

Out in the Country by Kate Hewitt

4 STARS FREE

http://www.amazon.com/Out-In-The-Country-ebook/dp/B008EV1C9U/ref

Thank you for reading this week's edition of Author to Author's, The Wednesday Word! Visit us again next week for more news and savings to refresh your bookish pleasures! As always, feel free to share and spread the word!