Let's Fix This Before We Die

Blogging used to be a shit load of fun.

It still is fun, but not a shit load of fun; not as much as it used to be before the blogging community of writers started pimping way more book promo than interesting reading material.

I get it.

I'm guilty of it myself.

But now that Google Reader is gone, and I'm using Feedly, I notice it more. Whenever I take a gander at my feed, I scroll ... I scroll ... I scroll some more ... and all I find anymore are blog tours, cover reveals, author interviews, and BUY MY BOOK posts. Then I leave, and check out what's up on Facebook. As I said. I get it. I'm in the same boat. We are all publishing books, and lots of books, especially since there are so many of us going indie now.

But you know what? We have got to change this. I'm bored. And let's be honest, shall we? So are you. You may still visit blogs and comment, but I'm more than certain you are just doing it now out of loyalty.

Don't get me wrong. I'm sure there are still some of you that post interesting reading material. But you're getting lost in the haystack, friends. I really hate to say that, but you are.

Let's fix this before we die.

I have an idea.

Create a new tab on your blog/website. Call it something like Blogger Love. Whenever you need to pimp your books, or fellow bloggers' books, post your blatant promo stuff there (unless it's a guest post). Then, on the main page of your blog, the REAL blog, write an article ... or even better, write an article that is in some way related to the topic or theme of the pimp post in your Blogger Love tab. Attract readers to your post with an awesome title. And make your first line count. Just like you do when you are writing a novel. Hook your readers. Lure them in. Keep them there with interesting content. Then, at the bottom of your awesome article, link to the pimp post in your Blogger Love tab. You could say something like this: Hey, and speaking of [topic of your article], check out this book by Blah, which explores a similar issue. He/She is celebrating their book release today. Please show your support and help spread the word. You could even provide them with a pre-written tweet to make things easier for them. Or, if what you want to pimp is short and sweet, you could just tack it onto the end of the post as it is, with a bit of a, Hey, by they way, have you heard? 

I know. This is going to take more work on your part, because you'll actually have to write the articles. But you know what? I think your readership will grow. This approach would be so much more effective, don't you think? After reading an interesting article, most people will click onto the pimp post, or the links at the end, because they enjoyed their visit. Why did they enjoy their visit? Because they weren't bombarded with promo and skip ahead.

What do you think? Could we start a blog revolution? I, for one, am going to try. And I'm starting today.

*Day SEVEN of the release tour for Briane Pagel's newest horror book, Temporary Anne, continues today, in which Braine is writing a story on the go, and blog readers get to choose how it continues. Great fun, right? CLICK HERE to find out more, and also how to receive a FREE book of his. Please show your support and help spread the word!

Note: My Blogger Love tab links to a new blog I created, because blogger only allows static pages and external links to be added to tabs. Other blog sites may have an option to create a new tab with a separate feed, however.

________________________

CLICK HERE to subscribe to my newsletter. Every subscriber will receive The Hum of Sin Against Skin for free, and be the first to know about new releases and special subscriber giveaways.

The Truth About Letting Go, by Leigh T. Moore, Launches Today!

I'm super pleased to announce that a great friend of mine, Leigh T. Moore, has a new book out. I've read it! And it's super-duper-fragalistic-odabulous. Trust me. I wouldn't lie to you.

Here are all the deets:

A companion to The Truth About Faking (not a sequel; the books can be read out of order), The Truth About Letting Go (link) takes readers back to Shadow Falls, or more specifically Shadow Creek, with Ashley Lockett as she learns about real friendship, love, and letting go.

Get me

The Truth About Letting Go (link) by Leigh Talbert Moore

Ashley wants to smash everything in her once-perfect life. Charlotte wants to walk in Ashley's seemingly charmed shoes.
Colt wants to turn Smalltown USA on its ear--with Ashley at his side.
Jordan wants to follow his heart... but Ashley is the one sacrifice he never expected to make.

Up until now, Ashley Lockett has always followed the rules. She's always done the right thing, played it safe, and then her ideal life is shattered when her dad dies suddenly.

Fueled by anger and grief, she vows to do everything opposite of how she lived before. She rejects safety, the rules, faith, and then she meets Jordan. Jordan has big dreams, he's had a crush on Ashley for years, he's a great kisser... but he's also safe.

Enter Colt. He is not safe, and he's more than willing to help Ashley fulfill her vow.

Get it today on:
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | iTunes | Kobo

Add it on Goodreads!

Excerpt:

I feel Colt laugh, and he looks down into my face. That’s when he seems to realize what I’ve been acutely aware of for the last several minutes—our bodies are pressed together.

“It’s awesome, yeah?” he says. “Adrenaline rush.”

“Yeah,” I breathe. “I guess.”

I’m not sure if he’s going to kiss me until he does. His mouth covers mine, and energy mixes with the alcohol flooding my body. Our tongues slide together, and I grip his shirt so I don’t collapse.

Every single bit of this is wrong, and there’s no way I’m stopping it. It’s back, that good feeling. The sadness has been pushed out again, and in its place is this rush, this rush of adrenaline like Colt said.

He pulls back and smiles at me. “We’re going to start dating. Now. You’re my partner in crime.”

About the Author:

Moore

Leigh Talbert Moore is a wife and mom by day, a writer by day, a reader by day, a former journalist and editor, a chocoholic, a caffeine addict, a lover of YA and new adult romance (really any great love story), a beach bum, and occasionally she sleeps. 

-The Truth About Faking is her debut young adult romance (on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, iTunes, and Kobo) -Rouge is her first New Adult romantic suspense novel (on Amazon).

Leigh loves hearing from readers; stop by and say hello!

Blog | Facebook | Amazon Author page | Goodreads | Twitter | Tumblr

Little favour, pretty please with a cherry on top?

So how can I NOT support my cousin's new blog? Are you a gamer? Do you love to read science fiction and fantasy? Well, I think you'll find Damien one of the most passionate about the genre. Please please do me a favour and welcome him to the blogosphere and click that follow button. Pretty please with a cherry on top? I'll buy you and ice cream ... ;o)

Confession: I have literary tourette's.

Things on my manic mind today are ...

Source

• The possibility of going to Australia with my mother mid January.
• Getting a band together and wishing I could overcome this horrible stage fright.
• I love my coffee cup.
• Finally getting around to reading the books I bought for MUTED research.
• Wishing there was a second-hand book store in Athens so I could relieve my shelves of gastroenteritis.
• I need more coffee, cake, chocolate and ... yoga.
• The relief I feel knowing I've been guaranteed a year's worth of steady freelance work.
• The worry that this freelance work is going to interfere with my creativity.
• VINE LEAVES LITERARY JOURNAL
• Really want to read Dawn Ius' manuscript. Been on my Kindle for way too long!
• All the money I owe left and right. (When will the bills stop coming???)
• Writing guest blog posts for Roz Morris, Kristie Cook and Karen Gowen. 
• Where did that extra kilo come from???
• Finishing Talli Roland's Build a Man and writing a review (awesome book!)
• Starting Michelle Davidson Argyle's The Breakaway in order to write an endorsement for the cover.
• Whether Pantera Press will want to publish Bitter Like Orange Peel.
• What did you say? I can't hear you! I'm reading submissions!
• OMG, I love you so much, (you bloggers know who you are)
• Now I know what editors feel like having to sift through less-than-publishable submissions or to deal with submitters that don't even take the time to find out your name ...
• When am I going to get paid?
• I want some spare cash so I can purchase the latest season of BONES, and the first few seasons of FRINGE.
• Do I really have to do the dishes?
• When am I going to start writing again? And how do I keep marketing String Bridge without shoving it in people's faces?

What's on your mind today?

Miss my special announcement yesterday? Click here!

Please don't get angry at me ...

So, um, I'm thinking of getting an e-reader.

• For those who know me well, know I hate them.
• For those who know me well, know that every time someone posts about them, I go on and on about how I couldn't give up paper because I love the smell and the feel of turning pages.
• For those who know me well, know that I vowed to never buy one.
• For those who know me well, know that ... aw, shucks ... I DO NOT WANT AN E-READER ...

But I think I need one.

People are putting out books I want to read that are only available in e-format.
Bloggers are releasing debuts I want to buy and review to show encouragement and support.

NO!

Do NOT tell me to download the PC application. I already have. A long long time ago. But I haven't used it because I sit at my computer 15 hours a day for work and writing and blogging and Facebooking and tweeting and watching um ... America's Next Top Model on YouTube *cough* ...

I'm just gonna have to bite the bullet and get one aren't I? I can't avoid them for the rest of my life, can I? Oh I feel sick. I don't want to abandon the paperback. The paperback was my first ever love ...

So. Here's where you come in. I know nothing about e-readers. What kind do I get?

REMINDERS: Have you signed up for my String Bridge Book & Music Blog Tour yet? If not, and you'd like to, just click HERE.

Over at All 4 ALABAMA, my poetry book, Twisted Velvet Chains is up for grabs. Head on over and bid on it for a worthy cause!

STRING BRIDGE IS NOW ON GOODREADS!!! WOOT!!!

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR ALL YOUR SUPPORT!!!

Mum and Me (2005-ish)

Short and sweet post today for the end of my blogging week. I just want to say THANK YOU to all my wonderful followers who commented and reposted my book trailer on facebook yesterday. You have NO IDEA how much I appreciate it. I went to bed all weepy last night. After having had a pretty low day (been a bit unreasonably depressed lately) my heavy head and chest suddenly filled with sweet air and butterflies. I'm so thrilled my trailer touched so many of you. And for those who are still wondering, yes, it's me singing in the trailer. Even though I do write songs myself, the original song for this trailer was written by my mother. I adored it and asked if I could remix it, and she said yes. So I changed the lyrics to fit the book and re-recorded it. So thanks so much MUM!

If you still haven't had a chance to see the trailer, just check out yesterday's post! Have a great weekend everyone. And THANK YOU again!!!

PS: Here's the LINK to my mother's original song if you're interested!

XOXO

There are certain ways of marketing a book which I believe will stunt sales. (and a special announcement)

I'm going to make a very bold statement. But before you take it negatively, please hear me out first, because in actual fact, it's not negative at all, it's positive.

My statement:
I lose interest in social networkers who only ever blog, facebook, twitter about their books, sales figures and other people's reviews of their books.

Let's face it. We've all gotta market our work if we want to sell it. But there is a better way than just 'putting it out there'. People are going to be so much more interested in someone's book if it's not in their face all the time, and/or they do their plugging along side other, more interactive issues. Please be clear here, that I am not criticising anyone in particular. I'm just voicing an opinion I have come to realize greatly effects what I choose to read online, and I believe I'm not the only one who feels like this. I want to interact with authors. If I just wanted information about a new release, I'd read the newspaper. Get my drift?

For example, who would you consider buying a book from ...

This kind of social networker:
"My book titled 'blah' is available on blah, blah and blah. Please review it." (The real meaning = Please buy my book, pretty please, even though you know nothing about me. Why should you know anything about me to want to buy my book? Read the blurb, it's interesting! You just have to trust me on that, even though, really, I haven't given you any reason to trust me on that, because we've never interacted together online.)

Or, this kind of social networker:
"You'll never believe the week I've had and what I've discovered. I did this and this and this, and it made me feel like this and this and this. Does this kind of thing ever make you feel like this too? Please tell me I'm not alone. PS: My book is finally on Amazon! I'd love for you to check it out!" (The real meaning = I really appreciate my followers, and I also really want to know more about them and want to share all my ups and downs with them and discover if we have anything in common. And once we've established that, I hope that one day they'd like to purchase my book. And if they do - bonus! If not, I'm still going to interact with them anyway, because we've become such great friends.)

I don't know about you, but I choose option two. I don't feel like I'm being handed a press release in the street this way. And I feel like they actually want me to be there, to experience what they're experiencing with them. In my opinion, this is how we should network if we want people to take notice. And I don't think doing this is any more complex than the straightforward announcement.

In addition, never, ever, excuse my abruptness here, but never just tweet something like this: Title of book, great review #clickthislink. Because I won't click it. But I will click it, if you tweet: I'm so excited and thrilled about this review! Thank you so much, (name of person who wrote the review) #clickthislink. If you tweet that, I'll click it because you seem appreciative. Well, I would if I was on Twitter. ;o)

So, what kind of networking do you think works best? Do you agree with what I've said? Why/Why not?

Special Announcement!

Seeing as we're on the subject of plugging. Roland Yeomans has published his first book! Yay! Congratulations, Roland!Let's give him a little support and check it out, hey?

(See? Brief, to the point, and embedded in a post which should trigger INTERACTION. Interaction is the key, folks, and don't forget it!)

Your Questions Answered!

Wow! What awesome responses I got yesterday for those questions! Thank you all for being so honest and taking the time to comment. I really appreciate it!

Now for my answers to your questions. If you'd like to see the blogs of who asked me the questions, you can click HERE and locate their links in the comments section.

Alesa Warcan and Holly Ruggiero asked: What was that green thing that used to be next to your signature supposed to be? A photo shopped apple? A microscopic view of a spore?

Sorry to be boring, but I have no idea. My mother made it for my website :o)

Jen Daiker asked: What's your favorite condiment?

LOL ... um ...is vegemite a condiment?

Matthew Rush asked: Have you ever based a character in your writing on yourself or someone you know?

Yes! Plenty. But I've changed a lot of attributes. Especially of other people so as not to encounter any law suits. LOL. Every writer bases characters on who they know, right?

Justine Dell asked: You have a bar of chocolate, a piece of copper wire, and a match, and you are locked in room. Your going to die in 20 minutes unless you can get out (and use all three items). What do you do?

Oh man, this requires brain power ... um ... does the chocolate bar say 'Eat Me' on it? I'm going to guess it does, so I would stretch the copper wire from the floor to the key hole. Use the match to heat the parts I want to bend, then eat the chocolate bar, proceed to shrink, then climb the copper wire, crawl out the key hole, and pray I don't break any bones when I jump on the other side. How's that?

Elena Solodow asked: If you could choose a penname for yourself, what would it be and why?

Hmm, I've never thought about calling myself anything other than Jessica. Ok, um ... probably I'd choose Carmen Urbach. Because Carmen is my middle name, and Urbach is my mother's maiden name, and I think they sound nice together :o)

Tracy asked: If an evil sorcerer was turning you into one of Alvin & The Chipmunks, whom would you rather be? Alvin, Simon or Theodore?

Simon because he looks like a cool rapper in shades :o)

Laura Marcella asked: If you could pick any career other than what you do now, what would it be?

Rock star, baby! I've always wanted to be rich enough to smash a guitar to pieces on stage, and yell and scream out of tune like Courtney Love. Can I? Can I? Can I?

Bryan Russell asked: What led you away from the sunny shores of Australia? To the, uh, sunny shores of Greece? (yeah, I'm sick of the Canadian winter)

Um, I'd really like to deny the fact that I fell in love with a gorgeous hunk-o-spunk during summer on an island, and avoid the cliche, but if I'm gonna be honest, I'm afraid I'm gonna have to tell you I fell in love with a hunk-o-spunk, and groveled for his attention with my tongue touching my toes. Oh man, I was so weak then. If I had met the guy now, I would tell him to take a hike. (And, oh my God, can you believe that I even dressed Eurotrashy for him??? *hangs head in shame*

Photo is of me standing next to 'the guy', ten years ago. Glad you can't see my ridiculous knee high boots!

Em-Musing asked: What's in the bottles?

They're old Ouzo bottles filled with small black pebbles and shells from Ithaca :o)

Karen Walker asked: Did you ever have a chance to read my memoir - you mentioned you had it - I'm afraid this means you hated it and are afraid to say so.

As I said in my email, no I haven't read it but have every intention to. So, don't worry! :o)

Lenny Lee asked: You mostly don't say so much bout your boyfriend. i could wanna know more about him like what he does how he looks why he loves you.

Aw, Lenny. Unfortunately he doesn't like being splattered all over the web, so that's why I don't talk about him. He's an events manager here, and so has a kinda, 'mysterious reputation', so I don't post pics, etc. But he did do a guest post for me last week. You can see how much he loves me from that :o)

Candyland asked: When you're not working/writing/being awesome, what do you do in your spare time (if there is such a thing)?

I read, and watch ridiculous amounts of TV and/or go see live gigs, and/or sit on my balcony with a bottle of red wine and nibble of pickled octopus and dolmades! :o)

Carolyn V asked: What's your favorite dessert? (I'm a little hungry right now.) =)

Lemon Tart, or Lemon Meringue Pie!

Samantha Verant asked: If you had to choose one of the following professions (life or death) which one would it be and why? A telemarketer or a sewer inspector?

Are you kidding? Telemarketer. Why would I want to sit in stink??? LOL

Elizabeth Mueller asked: So, how do you feel about self-published authors?

I think it's great, as long they don't rush into it. If they take the time to make it the best they possibly can and invest the money on someone to edit it properly, then I say, go for it.

Talli Roland asked: WHEN ARE YOU COMING TO LONDON?

WHEN I GET MY RESIDENCY PERMIT RENEWED

gideon86 asked: What's you favorite book of all time? ONLY ONE.

Easy! Housekeeping, by Marilynne Robinson :o)

Nate Wilson asked: From which author would you be most thrilled to get a blurb for String Bridge?

Oh my God, Marilynne Robinson, or Margaret Atwood. My dream!!!

Nicole Ducleroir asked: How do you feel about the rising e-publishing industry, both from your viewpoints as a writer and as a reader?

I hate ebooks! I like the feel and smell of real pages. I dunno how I'm going to cope!

J.L. Campbell asked: If you had to live anywhere else in the world, where would that be and why?

Probably the UK or America, so that I can have access to all the wonderful writer's workshops and conferences!

Arlee Bird asked: If you only could pick one, which would you choose as a career: Music or Literature?

Literature. I've decided. Yep, definitely literature. I figure if I'm good enough, I make my words sing :o)

Hart Johnson asked: Imagine you end up with an international best seller and the financial means to do anything you want. Where will you throw your giant follower party and how will you entertain us?

Haha! I'd fly you all out to Greece and have a party on Santorini! Entertain you? Um, ... check out all the hot Greek guys there, I won't need to entertain you at all! ;o)

Shannon McMahon asked: Select one moment from your past that you feel defined your path. What was it and how does it impact your choices today?

The day I got straight A's in English Literature, and E- in Math! LOL Also, when I realised how happy I was when vegging around at home all day. That led me to seek freelance editing jobs I could do at home. If there's a will there's a way. And I got my way! hehehe ;o)

Thanks so much for all you awesome questions! Whoah, this took me over an hour ...

Questions For You ... Questions For Me? (caution: possible offensive content ahead)

I have a few questions for you:

1. Does abundant cursing in literature put you off reading the book? If so, why? 'Fuck', nowadays is used as much as 'hello'.

2. What do you think distinguishes between a real poem and just a bunch of flippin' sentences chopped up into different lines?

My name is Jessica

and I can write poetry.

How cool.

Look at this awesome

line break

I'm a genius!

3. Do you put pressure on yourself to read a specific number of books per year? If so, why? Isn't that unessesary stress? Man, isn't there enough of it in this life? Just enjoy reading your book, instead of reading it to start the next.

4. What makes you buy a fellow blogger's published book? Your friendship with the person, or the fact that you're actually interested in reading it? Honestly now, folks ... :o)

5. Do you shy away from buying books from Small Presses? If so, why? *tsk tsk* *slap slap*

So, I'm going to follow Candyland's suit and ask you, to ask me, anything you want to know. And tomorrow, I'll post the answers. Go on, embarrass me if yer like. Ah got tough skin ;o)

I don't know what I'd do without you.

I've been hit with gooey and mushy love and appreciation for a few bloggers I've come to rely on for writing support. So this post is for them. These three people are helping me get my upcoming novel String Bridge in pristine shape before submitting to my publisher. I'm going to be doing rewrites until the end of February. Perhaps I'll finish a bit earlier. I'm actually hoping I can have it complete by the 26th - my 30th birthday.

These three people are Nicole Ducleroir, Dawn Ius and Shannon McMahon. Ladies, you are my crutch! Thank you, thank you, thank you for being available to share and help me through all sorts of excitement, angst, crisis, doubt and hope I have been feeling through all this. And thank you so so much for all your confidence boosts. I appreciate them as much as the fingers I'm typing with. If you're a writer, you're sure to know how much these boosts are needed to keep up your momentum.

Ladies, you are amazing. All I need to do is holler and you come running. I don't know what I'd do without you. So THANK YOU. When I'm finished with this book. I'm all yours, for EVERYTHING and ANYTHING (as long as it doesn't involve weird sex scenarios or murder, that is) :o)

I love you guys!!!!

So, peoples, tell me, do you have a crutch? Could you imagine your life without them?

A quick 'Thank you' and 'Welcome!'

I just wanted to give a big public warm thank you to all who have entered the giveaway (and sorry for not replying to you all personally, but there's just no time!), and a warm welcome to all those new followers. Thank you so much! I will definitely be coming around to check out your awesome blogs in the coming week. Good luck to all who've entered so far!!! Enjoy your Sunday!

Self-published book a pleasant surprise!

Promise by Kristie Cook

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I began reading this book out of curiosity, to see if a self-published book lived up to the quality of a traditionally published one. And you know what? It didn't just 'live up to' the standard, but soared beyond it.

It is told from the perspective of Alexis, an eighteen-year old protagonist, so when you begin reading, it seems like Young Adult fiction (though the content definitely is not). This threw me a little because I don't read YA. But once I got over the 'young' voice, and started focusing primarily on the story, I was pleasantly surprised. It had me up late at night to 'just read another chapter', until I couldn't hold my head up any longer. When books do this to me, it's a success.

I'm a really fussy reader. I don't have any inclination to pick up a paranormal fantasy novel. So for a paranormal fanatasy novel, that reads like YA to hook me, the writer has to be good. And Kristie Cook is GOOD!

If you're looking for delicate elitist literary prose, then this book isn't for you. But if you're looking for an entertaining story to transport you into another world, to forget your woes, routine or monotony of the everyday, then pick this up. You won't be disappointed! I thoroughly enjoyed something that I thought I never would. So thank you, Kristie, for the wonderful experience!

View all my reviews

It's time to support Alex J. Cavanaugh and his debut!

Alex J. Cavanaugh's debut CassaStar is being released today, and I've jumped on the bandwagon to show my support! So, I'm BEGGING you :o), please show your support by purchasing his debut. Just think about the karma. When your first book comes out wouldn't you be absolutely thrilled if all your blogger buddies went out and purchased it? I certainly would! So please, show Alex some love!

You can find his book @

AMAZON

BARNES & NOBLE

BAM

A little about the book:

To pilot the fleet’s finest ship…

Few options remain for Byron. A talented but stubborn young man with a troubled past and rebellious attitude, his cockpit skills are his only hope. Slated to train as a Cosbolt fighter pilot, Byron is determined to prove his worth and begin a new life as he sets off for the moon base of Guaard.

Much to Byron’s chagrin, the toughest instructor in the fleet takes notice of the young pilot. Haunted by a past tragedy, Bassa eventually sees through Byron's tough exterior and insolence. When a secret talent is revealed during training, Bassa feels compelled to help Byron achieve his full potential.

As war brews on the edge of space, time is running short. Byron requires a navigator of exceptional quality to survive, and Bassa must make a decision that could well decide the fate of both men. Will their skills be enough as they embark on a mission that may stretch their abilities to the limit?

“…calls to mind the youthful focus of Robert Heinlein’s early military sf, as well as the excitement of space opera epitomized by the many Star Wars novels. Fast-paced military action and a youthful protagonist make this a good choice for both young adult and adult fans of space wars.” - Library Journal

 

Check out the trailer!

Feelin' groovy, cause I got my groove back!

HAPPY MONDAY! 

I critiqued Nicole Ducleroir's first chapters of her WIP on the weekend. Guys ... if you ever get the chance to read her work I suggest you don't even think twice! She certainly has a stunningly unique way with words. I was drooling all weekend thanks to her! (Ugh, my chin's still sticky!)

Looks like I'd better purchase a bib before I get stuck into anymore :o)

Anyway, critiquing her work gave me back my groove! My stink disappeared! So relieved! Yesterday I wrote a whole chapter, right from where I'd left off the last time without changing anything, and without seeking out the stink. Because I didn't have to. What I was suffering from was lack of personal inspiration. And Nicole's work kicked me in the butt and inspired the pants off me. THANKS NICOLE!

Have you ever had a stink terminator as a critique buddy? And did they help remove the stink?

PS: Check out this writing competition: "Brian Martin's community short story project"

Brian Martin and The Writing Show would like to invite you to contribute to a 2500-word short story that will be written in five approximately 500-word installments.

The author of each entry chosen for the final story will be able to select a prize from a list of options. Prizes are: an appearance on The Writing Show; a 750-word critique of a first chapter from Paula B.; a perfect-bound paperback from the Espresso Book Machine at the McMaster University bookstore; a copy of Maralys Wills' inspiring book Damn the Rejections, Full Speed Ahead: The Bumpy Road to Getting Published; help with a query letter from Paula B.

If you're interested visit The Writing Show for details or listen to the announcement/instructions HERE.

RLCNVZJELLJMJKADTS: these letters stand for ....

As I said last Friday, today is the last day to enter into this contest. You've still got until end today to donate, so just because you didn't make it into this blogpost, it doesn't mean you can't still enter at the last minute. If you enter while I'm still at my computer. I'll add you to this list!

Right. The following are the generous writers who donated to The Writing Show, and why I love'em:

Roland Yeomans

"Dreamer. Writer. Believer in the worth of each soul I meet. It is not so bad a thing to have been born with the gift of laughter and the knowledge that the world is mad."

Roland must be the sweetest guy around the blogosphere. He's always ready to boost my ego, when I need it! Not only that, but his writing is exquisite - beyond beautiful - stunningly elaborate. When I read his blog, I feel 100 times more intelligent for understanding his prose! :o)

Leigh T. Moore

"I'm a writer, editor, and public relations professional."

This girl knocks my socks off. She has got a quirk and a wit I thought you could only find in Aussies like me! And I love how she thinks I have a cockney accent! (Um, ... even though, cockney is a British thing, but never mind!) ;o)

Candace Ganger

"I sometimes go by my real name, Candace Ganger and I have a head, I swear. Born in a small village on the outskirts of Ipanema...wait, that wasn't me. Though I was a musician, I'm currently a SAHM (for those down with lingo) of one, and YA author, lover of all things New Medicine & The Used. When I'm not covered in peanut butter and urine, I'm writing. Cause that's how I roll."

I think this gal and I were sisters in another life - in fact, maybe we are sisters in this life and just don't know it. Both our hearts were in rock 'n' roll until something hit us both on the head and said we should be writers ... um ... we'll never know who dunnit, but I reckon it was a guitar pleading for a breather.

Nicole Ducleroir

"I'm a Literary Fiction writer using this blog to hone my craft. As I tackle my first novel project (*gulp*), my blog entries below document my journey, although some posts are exercises that fall into two categories: Fiction and Creative Nonfiction. Fictional entries labeled "From The Lips Of..." are not written by me (*wink*) but penned by one of the characters from my WIP. Those entries are first person accounts in the voice of the featured character. Creative Nonfiction entries labeled "Captured Moments" are snapshots of my life, written while flexing my descriptive voice."

Ah Nicole, I can't express how thrilled I am that we have become critique partners. I couldn't have wished for a more talented, kind-hearted, and generous soul to share my work with. You truly are one of a kind. Can't wait to get underway!

Vicki Rocho (donated but not entering)

"Don't you hate it when you have a popcorn hull stuck in your tooth and no amount of brushing, flossing, or digging at it with the tip of your tongue will dislodge it?"

Vicki, every morning you seem to have gotten up at just the right time to post and make me laugh as soon as I turn my computer on. THANK YOU!

Zoe Courtman Smith

"I'm a freelance copywriter and editor by day, aspiring horror novelist by the rest of the day."

Zoe, without you I would never had had to answer the most embarrassing question ever. Trust me to think of something so *cringe* and then win your contest and have to answer it! But I had a ball being interviewed by you, and guess what? My WIP is on that groovy gold flash drive!

Janie Sullivan

"I have been writing since I was a teenager, have published articles in magazines, newspapers, and many newsletters. My family are all writers in some form or other and I published a family anthology a couple years ago with submissions from my parents, brothers, children and grandchildren. It was a great Christmas present and a wonderful way to showcase my family's talent."

I don't know Janie very well, but I would like to thank her for entering and plugging the contest on her website! Thank you, Janie!

Elizabeth Mueller

"I'm a mother of four wonderful kidlets who, more often than not, drive me nuts. I'm very grateful that I can be home at the crossroads for my children and have been blessed with that privilege. I've been writing for as long as I can remember. I've finished 8 novels, and 3 children's books and have tons more stories waiting to be told. I believe with all of my heart that it takes a lot of guts to be a writer--especially an aspiring author."

This generous sweetheart is a very special lady. She has more talents than I can count on my fingers! Elizabeth always makes me feel at peace when I'm speaking to her. There is something about the way I imagine her voice sounds that calms me. Perhaps it's all the mermaids and fairies she illustrates that makes me feel that way! And thanks so much for donating your time and money to the RUNNER UP prize!

Lindsay (aka Isabella)

"I'm a Brit with a love of literature and a lot of books. After years of quietening the characters in my head, I listened. I've been writing ever since. I live in The UK where I blog, eat chocolate and write Young Adult Fiction."

For some reason I think Lindsay is shy behind her computer screen, but she sure knows how to hide it! Sweet, kind, edgy, and always ready to offer herself up for support! Thanks so much for reading my poetry too!

 

Lydia Kang (donated but not entering)

"I'm still trying to figure out how to squeeze 25 hours of life into a normal day. I'm a mom, wife, part-time doctor, writer, sister, daughter, blogger, and when I get the chance, I sleep. I write poetry, creative non-fiction, and young adult fiction."

Lydia is the answer to your medical drama questions. Got a character who's injured? Ask her a question about it and see what she has to say on her Medical Monday blog posts! Thanks so much for answering mine!

Jenn

"I am a girl in her 30s who has lived with Endometriosis for over ten years. With the recent increase in severity of my once-tolerated symptoms, Endo has nearly taken over my life. Join me as I share my total experience as I search for help & healing. Let's discover a cure with a smile & support each other with Friendship. Won't you be my Endo Friendo?"

I am SOOO new to your blog Jenny, please tell me that I've linked the right one! I'll just die if I've made a mistake!!!!

Matthew Rush

"I'm a novice writer who made a lot of mistakes when I prematurely tried to get my novel published. I've learned a lot since then with a lot of help from a lot of other writers. I want to do my part to help other writers avoid the same mistakes I made. Feel free to have a laugh at my expense or share some some of your own embarrassing moments. The only thing I ask is that you respect all the other writers who comment or follow here. If you feel the need to make a sarcastic remark or point out someone's faults, please direct it at me. And please don't try to figure out who any of these agents are or get angry at them. They were just doing their job."

Matthew and I almost got off on the wrong foot when I accused him of ignoring me and my blog! Yikes! Am I an idiot or what? Luckily, he took no offense and we became great friends. Thanks so much for featuring one of my queries on your blog, Matt!

Julie Musil

"I'm Julie Musil, children's author, wife, and mother. I live in a rural California town amid hiking trails and dirt bikes. I married my high school sweetheart, John. Together we have three amazing sons, one cute little doggie, and three leopard geckos. [I write] little bit of everything. Picture books, nonfiction books, magazine stories and articles. I'm seeking representation for my middle grade novel, SPECIAL FORCES. My current work in progress is a YA novel."

Julie, thanks so much for donating! I'm looking forward to getting to know you a little better!

Kristie Cook

"I write, read, work, play, laugh, cry, cook, eat, love, hurt, teach, learn...order varies, as do results. The voices in my head keep me amused, so if you see me laughing out loud for no apparent reason, you know why. Read what they say here and in my upcoming books."

As you know I've purchased your book! I CAN'T WAIT to read it!

Amamda Sablan

"Everybody was kung-fu writing! I am a displaced Texan in Georgia and am on the lookout for a literary agent to represent me and my first novel, which is a literary thriller with a dash of spiritual fantasy. Besides that, I am also interested in acting and criminal justice."

I owe you an apology. You've been coming by my blog for so long and I've hardly paid yours any attention. Now that my work load is lighter, I'll be sure to drop by more often!!! Please know that I do think about you, though!

Donna Hole

"I work at a social services agency, a job I enjoy nearly as much as writing. Although I've always been interested in writing, I didn't think I had a novel in me until about four years ago. Even then it was just a short story that kept needing details filled in. I write about women's issues, and have three novels completed. I have three ex-husbands, five children (four of them grown), a daughter-in-law, almost son-in-law, and two granddaughters to goad my muse into a creative frenzy."

Donna is being published!!!! Woohoo!!!! Believe me, she deserves to be. Her writing is FANTASTIC! I can't wait to buy her book :o)

T.J Carson

"Well first off, TJC is a pen name I made up! Kinda catchy right? Anyways, I write. I am a DEAN'S LIST student @ the UNIVERSITY OF DELAWARE and 19 years old. I found I enjoy writing after ONE English TEACHER changed everything for me. Just trying to write some novels that I feel PASSIONATE about, and get them out into the WORLD. Feel free to follow me on my writing extravaganza and the SHENANIGANS of publishing. Hope I can make the CUT. I strive for EXCELLENCE and don't give up. And I should WARN all agents... I've never quit anything in my LIFE... except the stupid SAXOPHONE in middle school (the teacher was a... colorful noun.)"

I first 'met' T.J when we were both participating in the VIDEO BATTLES, Jen was hosting. We had a ball! And my oh my does she have a sense of humour!!!

Sheri Larsen
"Writer of all YA/MG, wife, and mother of four—diva stripe intact, according to the hubs—hopeless romantic, sports FANatic, chocoholic, self-proclaimed rebel, and lover of all things paranormal. Here, I share my short stories, the novels I'm working on, struggles & successes while writing, tips I've learned in the craft, insights on motherhood, friendship...ooh, and I dance. I'll show you as soon as I figure out how to vlog."
This darling woman has a heart of gold! A gmail chat with Sheri always makes me feel like gold too! Thanks so much for being online when I need to whine! You're a lifesaver! :o)

So, thank you everyone for your donations to The Writing Show! I wish you all the best of luck! Don't forget to check in tomorrow for the results!

Don't miss the boat!

My contest ends after this weekend, on Monday 13th, SO HURRY BEFORE YOU MISS OUT ON THESE GREAT PRIZES!

I'll be announcing winners on Tuesday 14th. First prize includes a podcast interview on The Writing Show, pubilcation of a writing excerpt on The Writing Show website, $100 Amazon giftcard, and a full manuscript copy edit. Runner-up prize is a $15 Barnes and Noble giftcard and an Illustration for your WIP book cover by the wonderfully talented Elizabeth.

On Monday, I'll publish a list of the entrants with links to their wonderful blogs and descriptions of why I love them so much :o).

 Click HERE for details on how to enter. Good luck!

PS: I've surpassed 300 followers! I can't believe it!!!!