Wednesday, December 31, 2014
Monday, December 29, 2014
Childrens Book Review and Giveaway (US only): The Case of the Cursed Dodo by Jake G. Panda
Today I'm happy to post both a review and a giveaway. After you check out the review, don't forgot to scroll down and enter for a chance to win an autographed copy of the book from the author.
The Case of the Cursed Dodo by Jake G. Panda
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
The Case of the Cursed Dodo is a rather unique read mixing the feel of an old mystery detective show with endangered animal rights activism. Jake the panda is a detective based in the Last Resort, a hotel for endangered animals. A phone call from a friend in trouble sets him on the path of both a kidnapping and an unsolved mystery.
The story is interesting and well-edited. The approach taken to tell the story is unique, more like watching a movie than reading a book. Everything is organized in scenes, with camera perspective shifts indicated in all caps. The narration lines are in italics, so you know when the narrator's voice over is happening. I tended to imagine a deep rumbly voice for these, as I believe they are told from Jake's perspective.
I also like that all of the characters are animals, though I thought some of them could use a bit more description. The focus is on endangered animals, and those are the nearly exclusive focus of the cast list. The downside is that some of them are rather obscure, so without description or illustration, they are hard to imagine. It seems at times almost like a catalog of the creatures.
The illustrations in the book are well done. I thought they were classy and fit the story. They have a sort of dreamlike feel, or perhaps a sense of being in an older era. I looked at them on both my tablet and my kindle (a regular cheap kindle) and they looked great on both.
The plot and the terminology meant to land us in the old detective setting from the black and white movie era, while interesting and entertaining, might not exactly make sense to children unless they happen to have watched movies from the genre that inspired this story. Personally, I think older folks would like this story the best. I was reminded of Dick Tracy and Warner Brothers cartoons that feature detectives. Still, I think children will enjoy the story for the animals and the action, all of which is kid friendly (to a degree). As always, I'd recommend that adults read the story ahead of time before giving it to their kids.
So, overall, I thought this was interesting and easy to read. The story, while meant to inspire nostalgia, will probably only do so for older readers. Younger readers will likely enjoy the animal characters and the illustrations. I'd recommend this to people who enjoy mysteries and sleuthing stories, classic movies about the same, and illustrated books. Those who also appreciate stories that raise their awareness about issues in non-preachy ways will find this story satisfying in that regard.
I received a copy of this from the author in exchange for an honest, non-reciprocal review.
Enter below for a chance to win an autographed copy of The Case of the Cursed Dodo! This raffle is open only to US Residents.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Author and Book Links
Main website: http://www.endangeredfiles.com -- Links to sites where children and readers can learn more about the endangered animals in this book, such as what they look like.
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/theendangeredfiles
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/jakegpandapi or @jakegpandapi
Find a copy of this book on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/dp/0990939111
The Case of the Cursed Dodo by Jake G. PandaMy rating: 3 of 5 stars
The Case of the Cursed Dodo is a rather unique read mixing the feel of an old mystery detective show with endangered animal rights activism. Jake the panda is a detective based in the Last Resort, a hotel for endangered animals. A phone call from a friend in trouble sets him on the path of both a kidnapping and an unsolved mystery.
The story is interesting and well-edited. The approach taken to tell the story is unique, more like watching a movie than reading a book. Everything is organized in scenes, with camera perspective shifts indicated in all caps. The narration lines are in italics, so you know when the narrator's voice over is happening. I tended to imagine a deep rumbly voice for these, as I believe they are told from Jake's perspective.
I also like that all of the characters are animals, though I thought some of them could use a bit more description. The focus is on endangered animals, and those are the nearly exclusive focus of the cast list. The downside is that some of them are rather obscure, so without description or illustration, they are hard to imagine. It seems at times almost like a catalog of the creatures.
The illustrations in the book are well done. I thought they were classy and fit the story. They have a sort of dreamlike feel, or perhaps a sense of being in an older era. I looked at them on both my tablet and my kindle (a regular cheap kindle) and they looked great on both.
The plot and the terminology meant to land us in the old detective setting from the black and white movie era, while interesting and entertaining, might not exactly make sense to children unless they happen to have watched movies from the genre that inspired this story. Personally, I think older folks would like this story the best. I was reminded of Dick Tracy and Warner Brothers cartoons that feature detectives. Still, I think children will enjoy the story for the animals and the action, all of which is kid friendly (to a degree). As always, I'd recommend that adults read the story ahead of time before giving it to their kids.
So, overall, I thought this was interesting and easy to read. The story, while meant to inspire nostalgia, will probably only do so for older readers. Younger readers will likely enjoy the animal characters and the illustrations. I'd recommend this to people who enjoy mysteries and sleuthing stories, classic movies about the same, and illustrated books. Those who also appreciate stories that raise their awareness about issues in non-preachy ways will find this story satisfying in that regard.
I received a copy of this from the author in exchange for an honest, non-reciprocal review.
Enter below for a chance to win an autographed copy of The Case of the Cursed Dodo! This raffle is open only to US Residents.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Author and Book Links
Main website: http://www.endangeredfiles.com -- Links to sites where children and readers can learn more about the endangered animals in this book, such as what they look like.
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/theendangeredfiles
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/jakegpandapi or @jakegpandapi
Find a copy of this book on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/dp/0990939111
Friday, December 26, 2014
Epic Childrens Fantasy Review: Everywhere the Road Ends (The Traveler of Ord #2) by Scott McCloskey
Today's review is for Everywhere the Road Ends by Scott McCloskey. This was an exciting opportunity for me, because I simply loved the first in the series. I was lucky to have been provided both books from the author for review.
Anyway, continue on to the post at Pure Textuality for my review. While you're there, check out the other posts, too.
Thursday, December 25, 2014
Review and Freebee Announcement: The Eric Elmoor Saga by Tommy Meyers
Today I'm passing on a free promotion for a great series. I read the first book as a read for review and I remember thinking wow the whole time. Very solid first book. So, here's my review again for the first one. Scroll down for links to two free novels and two free short stories set in this fantastic world.
Eric Elmoor and The Gauntlet of Godric by Thomas A. Meyers
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Fantastic fantasy, coming of age in a world torn between technology and tradition.
Eric Elmoor and The Gauntlet of Godric (Book I) is an excellent read.
The story begins with Derex, a disillusioned elf who turns to the dark arts and a mysterious master, Cerberus, to achieve his goal of destroying or at least turning aside the progress of the Initiative, technologically advanced rulers who aim to spread their way of life and their reach across the whole of the continent. Derex and his companions Belial and Faramor plan and execute a synchronized attack on the three major metropolises in Initiative hands, hoping to fill the citizens with fear and discourage the Initiative away from elven lands.
On the same day as the attack, 15 year old Eric Elmoor prepares for the last day of school and considers ways to attract the attention of a girl he has a crush on. But the Initiative, spurred by the tragic attack, sequesters him and his classmates (all students in the elective History of Magic class) for the entire day, grilling them on their interest in magic and motivations related to it. The day finally over, Eric returns home to find his mom deep in conversation with Ben, a wandering mage who has plans for Eric's future.
From there, Eric finds himself swept away from his comfortable city life into the magical and natural realm of the elves where he learns the secrets of his own heritage and potential, meets a beautiful girl, Lillian, and finds himself embroiled in a conflict between the elves and the misguided and dangerous rebel, Derex.
While this story has all the elements of a good fantasy, three elements set it apart from the rest.
One, the world in which the story is set is in a technological revolution, a prime ground for conflicts between traditional cultures who want to maintain their connections to nature and those who would seek to suppress them in the interest of progress.
Two, the story follows three primary characters: Derex the villian (who is both awful and likeable), Eric the young man trying to find his place in the world (self-conscious, confused, and full of potential for either good or evil), and Ben the mage (who desperately seeks to save the elves from their own pridefulness). Each person's story interweaves flawlessly with the rest and it is easy to keep track of where you are in the timeline at any given time.
Three, the imagery is fantastic without trying too hard. Some fantasy stories can get bogged down in the descriptions, not this one. Instead, the author illustrates his world with strong, concise description, making you feel like you are there. The sights, sounds, smells and textures come to life in your mind as the words flow off the page.
This is an outstanding book which I will probably read again (mostly likely each time a sequel comes out).
If you liked the Shannara books by Terry Brooks, you'll like this one, too.
Note: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
View all my reviews
--------------------
Starting today through the 28th, get books 1 & 2 of the Eric Elmoor Saga for FREE on Kindle!
The Eric Elmoor Saga is a coming of age tale set in a fantastical world besieged in a conflict between technology and tradition. Who would like to go on the journey?
"What can I say other than WOW! My description of this book...Harry Potter meets The Lord of the Rings!"
"One final word……….. Tolkien and Rowling’s [books] will be family favourites for years to come and if book one of Tommy’s [series], Eric Elmoor and the Gauntlet of Godric, is anything to go by he will be joining these great authors!"
"If you love the Harry Potter series you will love this one."
"...deserves to be known by more people."
"Great for all ages!"
"Brilliant!"
"Mind-blowing!"
"This is only book 1 to Eric's journey and It has left me needing to know the rest of the story, a good book does that to you! In fact you know you have me hooked when I buy both digital and paper copies (which I have just done)."
ERIC ELMOOR AND THE GAUNTLET OF GODRIC
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00AK21Z48
ERIC ELMOOR AND THE CHALICE OF CAMERON
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00OVNF...
AND, there are TWO free short stories as well:
THE INITIATIVE
https://www.goodreads.com/author_blog...
EXODUS
https://www.goodreads.com/author_blog...
Happy reading :-)
Eric Elmoor and The Gauntlet of Godric by Thomas A. MeyersMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Fantastic fantasy, coming of age in a world torn between technology and tradition.
Eric Elmoor and The Gauntlet of Godric (Book I) is an excellent read.
The story begins with Derex, a disillusioned elf who turns to the dark arts and a mysterious master, Cerberus, to achieve his goal of destroying or at least turning aside the progress of the Initiative, technologically advanced rulers who aim to spread their way of life and their reach across the whole of the continent. Derex and his companions Belial and Faramor plan and execute a synchronized attack on the three major metropolises in Initiative hands, hoping to fill the citizens with fear and discourage the Initiative away from elven lands.
On the same day as the attack, 15 year old Eric Elmoor prepares for the last day of school and considers ways to attract the attention of a girl he has a crush on. But the Initiative, spurred by the tragic attack, sequesters him and his classmates (all students in the elective History of Magic class) for the entire day, grilling them on their interest in magic and motivations related to it. The day finally over, Eric returns home to find his mom deep in conversation with Ben, a wandering mage who has plans for Eric's future.
From there, Eric finds himself swept away from his comfortable city life into the magical and natural realm of the elves where he learns the secrets of his own heritage and potential, meets a beautiful girl, Lillian, and finds himself embroiled in a conflict between the elves and the misguided and dangerous rebel, Derex.
While this story has all the elements of a good fantasy, three elements set it apart from the rest.
One, the world in which the story is set is in a technological revolution, a prime ground for conflicts between traditional cultures who want to maintain their connections to nature and those who would seek to suppress them in the interest of progress.
Two, the story follows three primary characters: Derex the villian (who is both awful and likeable), Eric the young man trying to find his place in the world (self-conscious, confused, and full of potential for either good or evil), and Ben the mage (who desperately seeks to save the elves from their own pridefulness). Each person's story interweaves flawlessly with the rest and it is easy to keep track of where you are in the timeline at any given time.
Three, the imagery is fantastic without trying too hard. Some fantasy stories can get bogged down in the descriptions, not this one. Instead, the author illustrates his world with strong, concise description, making you feel like you are there. The sights, sounds, smells and textures come to life in your mind as the words flow off the page.
This is an outstanding book which I will probably read again (mostly likely each time a sequel comes out).
If you liked the Shannara books by Terry Brooks, you'll like this one, too.
Note: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
View all my reviews
--------------------
Starting today through the 28th, get books 1 & 2 of the Eric Elmoor Saga for FREE on Kindle!
The Eric Elmoor Saga is a coming of age tale set in a fantastical world besieged in a conflict between technology and tradition. Who would like to go on the journey?
"What can I say other than WOW! My description of this book...Harry Potter meets The Lord of the Rings!"
"One final word……….. Tolkien and Rowling’s [books] will be family favourites for years to come and if book one of Tommy’s [series], Eric Elmoor and the Gauntlet of Godric, is anything to go by he will be joining these great authors!"
"If you love the Harry Potter series you will love this one."
"...deserves to be known by more people."
"Great for all ages!"
"Brilliant!"
"Mind-blowing!"
"This is only book 1 to Eric's journey and It has left me needing to know the rest of the story, a good book does that to you! In fact you know you have me hooked when I buy both digital and paper copies (which I have just done)."
ERIC ELMOOR AND THE GAUNTLET OF GODRIC
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00AK21Z48
ERIC ELMOOR AND THE CHALICE OF CAMERON
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00OVNF...
AND, there are TWO free short stories as well:
THE INITIATIVE
https://www.goodreads.com/author_blog...
EXODUS
https://www.goodreads.com/author_blog...
Happy reading :-)
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
Epic Historical Fiction Review: The Jericho River by David Tollen
Today's review is for a book I picked up while looking for freebees for my Kindle. Not only did I thoroughly enjoy this, but I also learned a lot. Highly recommended.
Check out the description and my review on Pure Textuality.
View all my reviews
Tuesday, December 23, 2014
Children's Book Review: Eliza Bluebell by A.J. York
Eliza Bluebell by A.J. YorkMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
Another one of A.J.'s magical stories. This one features a mysterious young woman who takes a break from her quest to find family to open a sweet shop in a small town. No one is certain how or when Eliza showed up, but everyone remembers it. After that, each chapter features one or two of the people from the town and how Eliza touches their lives. Eliza becomes a legend in the town's lore. A woman whose departure was as mysterious as her arrival.
In this story, which is pretty short, I most enjoyed the chapters in the middle, because each one is told from the perspective of a different villager. The nosy neighborhood women, the best friends in the grade school, the old man who grumbles and times the bus, and the young couple who are down on their luck. I like how Eliza draws them out of their shells and helps them connect to each other. Eliza's sentient and playful shadow adds that element of magic to everything. The people don't notice it directly, but they are affected by it. This is one of those stories that just left me feeling good.
The illustrations are also well done, though simple in their execution. Just silhouettes and shadows against a white background. They are obviously done by a skilled artist, though not as whimsical or laughter inducing as those in the author's other books. They fit the story and introduce the subject of each chapter effectively.
Although I liked this story, I think the story could have done just as well either without the first chapter, or with a much shorter one. I think this was because the first chapter was more of a telling than a showing. Later ones were more of a showing, which is why I enjoyed them more. There was also a fair amount of repetition, particularly within the first chapter.
Overall, I really liked the story, though it had a slow start. I'd recommend Eliza Bluebell to folks who like uplifting short stories with a touch of humor and magic.
I received a free copy of this book in return for an honest review.
View all my reviews
Add Eliza Bluebell to your TBR
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23652748-eliza-bluebell
Get Eliza Bluebell now!
http://www.amazon.com/Eliza-Bluebell-J-York-ebook/dp/B00QFZ6XLO
Connect with A.J. York
www.ajyork.com
www.facebook.com/delilahdusticle
https://twitter.com/
Monday, December 15, 2014
Historical Fiction Review: The Governess by Noorilhuda
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The Governess tells the story of a young woman cast aside by her husband and forsaken by all who know her. It opens on the morning of a hard-won interview. Jane is haunted by a voice in her head that tries to undermine what little self-respect and confidence she still has. Despite her reputation and her inner struggles, she is hired and assumes the role of governess for a well-to-do, but broken family.
Let me start off by saying I really enjoyed this story. The people and their histories are thoroughly explored, but not all at once. Everything is revealed slowly, just enough to draw you further into the story. At first I was worried I'd lose interest, because it seems to take an incredibly long time for anything to happen. But, instead, I found myself more and more engrossed as the story progressed, leading to some very late nights the last few times I picked up the book.
The story is complex and weaves several subplots into the main one that follows Jane on her road to redemption and self actualization. The mystery surrounding Jane's scandal, the vindictiveness of her husband and those he's turned against her, the aging Aunt, the Master of the house and his undying, self destructive love for his deceased wife, the relationship between him and his mistress, and the hints of connection between the Master and Jane. This isn't a romance novel. It's an exploration of some very real, very difficult social situations. It's a lot to take on in a single story, but I think it is done very well.
On the downside, I must admit this story can be a bit convoluted and slow. The first chapter, for example, is long and full of Jane's recent history and struggles, yet in the live story, she only manages to dress herself. What I'm saying is don't go into the story expecting action and adventure. This is a story designed to be thought about, internalized and talked about. It doesn't go anywhere fast. The shifting perspectives can also be a bit confusing, at times reflecting memories and at others reflecting experiences and thoughts of people who are no longer alive during the time in which the story takes place.
Overall, I found this to be a wonderful story, though covering some difficult issues. I would recommend this mostly to those who prefer historical fiction, and in particular to those who might read this for a book club or buddy read. When I finished, I wanted to discuss it, but since I didn't know anyone else who had read it, I really didn't have any outlet. I want to talk about what I thought about the ending, but doing so would spoil it. So, I will hold my tongue and recommend this for others.
I received a copy of this book from the author in return for a review.
View all my reviews
Thursday, December 11, 2014
Historical Mystery Review: XYZ A Detective Story by Anna Katherine Green
X Y Z by Anna Katharine Green
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Surprisingly good. I thoroughly enjoyed this mystery, even though it was written almost 100 years ago. The unnamed narrator tells about an unexpected adventure he finds himself in while investigating something else entirely.
I love how this one kept me interested and guessing. These are two of the most important features of any mystery or sleuthing story. I also like how the curiosity of the main character lands him in such an unlikely and awkward situation. I loved the way the details are revealed and the characters are well drawn and interesting.
The downside is that it is a bit old, and as such, it can be a little tough to read in parts. But, only a little. I couldn't figure out all the sayings, but I enjoyed trying to do so. It's like looking through a window into the past, and I must say it was much easier to read than Wuthering Heights, though I was reminded of that other work.
The lack of cover art and the bland title didn't offer any incentive to pick this up on their own. In fact, I, like some of the others who have read and reviewed this story, picked this up solely to satisfy the X in an A-Z reading challenge. But, overall, I'm happy with it and glad I did pick it up.
Overall, I really liked this. It's a short, somewhat humorous mystery. The historic element is a draw as well. Fans of mysteries or historical fiction, particularly those who like both genres, will likely enjoy this story.
View all my reviews
You can get a copy of this for Kindle here. Last time I checked, it's still free. Confirm before you buy, though.
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Surprisingly good. I thoroughly enjoyed this mystery, even though it was written almost 100 years ago. The unnamed narrator tells about an unexpected adventure he finds himself in while investigating something else entirely.
I love how this one kept me interested and guessing. These are two of the most important features of any mystery or sleuthing story. I also like how the curiosity of the main character lands him in such an unlikely and awkward situation. I loved the way the details are revealed and the characters are well drawn and interesting.
The downside is that it is a bit old, and as such, it can be a little tough to read in parts. But, only a little. I couldn't figure out all the sayings, but I enjoyed trying to do so. It's like looking through a window into the past, and I must say it was much easier to read than Wuthering Heights, though I was reminded of that other work.
The lack of cover art and the bland title didn't offer any incentive to pick this up on their own. In fact, I, like some of the others who have read and reviewed this story, picked this up solely to satisfy the X in an A-Z reading challenge. But, overall, I'm happy with it and glad I did pick it up.
Overall, I really liked this. It's a short, somewhat humorous mystery. The historic element is a draw as well. Fans of mysteries or historical fiction, particularly those who like both genres, will likely enjoy this story.
View all my reviews
You can get a copy of this for Kindle here. Last time I checked, it's still free. Confirm before you buy, though.
Tuesday, December 9, 2014
Epic Fantasy Review: The Path of Daggers (Wheel of Time #8) by Robert Jordan
The Path of Daggers by Robert JordanMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
Ok, this one was good, but it took me forever to get through it. Longer than normal, even for one in this series. And, I have decided I don't like this one quite as much as I remembered liking it.
What I like is that we get more of Egwene being awesome. The story still tries to take on way too many subplots, but that's just part of the experience. There are some great battles, lots of danger and a good deal of Rand. As for Rand, he's kind of a mess in this one. Cadsuane is stalking him, just enough to keep him on edge, and he's trying to deal with politics and with the invasion. All of this while trying to deal with the power gone strange and a growing difficulty catching it. He cannot show weakness because his so called allies are waiting for any opportunity to take him out of the picture.
I wish there was more time spent with the Aiel, but we mostly get Shaido in this book, not much of the good Aiel with their funny ideas and interactions. Still, it's interesting.
As for things I don't like, I don't particularly care for Perrin in this story, or Faile. We get too much of them, but I acknowledge that this building of their story is a necessary set up for the next book, which features their plight quite a lot. I also don't care for how Matt's story is essentially dropped. I know he'll be back, but not in this book.
Overall, I love this series and really like this installment. People who liked previous books in this series will like this one. Readers who haven't gotten into the series by now probably won't suddenly find themselves liking this book.
View all my reviews
Sunday, December 7, 2014
Finished with another book, or am I?
Yesterday I wrapped up a very promising 3rd draft of last year's NaNoWriMo story, The Freeze. I had that feeling, that I'm done feeling. A rush of emotions. Happiness, relief, but then doubt and weariness.
Why?
Because one thing I've learned since I started self-publishing is that when you think you're finished, you're usually wrong. No, take that back, you're definitely wrong, particularly if you are celebrating finishing your final draft.
So, you might ask, what's left to do?
Good question. Here's a quick list to give you an idea, and perhaps to give me one as well. A checklist of things I have yet to do.
1. Get a second look at the thing.
Honestly, I haven't done this in the right place yet. Getting a beta reader to look at your story should happen after you are confident it's ready for public eyes. Maybe this time, eh? I really should.
2. Format for publishing.
This gets tricky, particularly if you distribute through more than one venue, like I do. I've found that each one prefers, or even requires, a very specific set up. Some require standard front matter. You have to obtain an ISBN # and put it in the right place, or an ASIN # if you're publishing on Kindle. And, while you don't necessarily have to do it, you probably should write a quick note for the end of the book. Yeah, that's not really fun, but think about how you feel when you finish a good story and find that the author has tacked that personal touch at the end. I know I like it.
3. Come up with a back cover blurb.
This can also be the description you will post with the book on websites. For me they are either the same or very similar. I don't think I've yet mastered the art, but writing reviews has made the task easier. My goal is to write a single paragraph, short and sweet, that shows what the story is about and why the reader should want to read it. In any case, this needs to be ready before you go to publish. All the venues I use require you to post one, and some don't have a save progress option; it's all or nothing with those, so have it ready.
4. Craft a cover.
Ok, so this one's tricky. So far, I've done all my own covers, but I must say that you'll probably get better results if you hire someone with a solid portfolio and graphic artistry skills to do it for you. Then again, if you're like me, you don't have a budget for that just yet. So, I will be doing it again.
Right now, I'm looking at my topic and at my other books and thinking, "Holy cow, did I really just write another book that lends itself to a blue cover?" Sure, blue's my favorite color, but honestly, I'm not doing this on purpose. Can't make it white or the edges disappear on the selling pages. Le sigh.
So, yeah, you need a cover before you publish as well, and like the content, the cover needs to be formatted differently for different venues. I usually use the same one for Kindle and Smashwords, but the print one has to be a specific size and quality. And it has to be set up a bit odd because the top, bottom and right edges will be chopped off. That's a pain.
Photoshop helps, but not as a means to stitch together different pictures or fix a fundamentally flawed one. I use it to layer background color, image, boxes (on which to place the text), and text onto the cover. Don't get caught up in fancy fonts or complex images. Simple is good. Readable is good. Shrink your cover to the size it will be posted on Amazon. Can you still read it and tell what it says? And, like the content, ask a few people to give you their opinions.
5. Get ready to publish the book.
This is where you'll actually start uploading all the content, the cover, and the blurb. Personally, I like to load the book everywhere and save, but not publish. Then I like to order a print proof and do one more round of line editing. Whatever I catch there, I fix in all three formats: print, kindle and smashwords. It's amazing how many things you'll find in the print version of the book you thought was perfect. It's worth the few dollars you'll spend on the proof and the shipping. And yeah, this is another reason why I say I'm not done when I think I am. I know better.
6. Set a date and promote.
Yes, time to let people know the book's coming. There are a few ways to drum up interest. You can sign up for blog tours, book blitzes and schedule interviews. You can take out ads. You can recruit some ARC reviewers and get them to post their opinions before release date. So far, I've not been very good at this part of it, mostly because I just want to skip right to publishing. Because of that, I won't go into detail here.
7. Publish the book.
At this point, you are ready. Everything's in place. It's release day (or just prior to). You've announced/promoted. You're happy with the book, the cover and the blurb. You know where you're publishing. Now, just log in, hit publish and wait. Wait, because with self publishing, your book usually has to go through a review before it posts.
If you've done this before, you'll have a good idea how long it takes for each venue. Like for Amazon, I'll hit publish the night before release. For CreateSpace, I'll hit it 2-3 days before release. For Smashwords, well, I just post it on release day and the book filters out to the various booksellers over the course of a week, but it's available on the Smashwords site right away.
8. Promote the book.
And promote yourself and your brand. Talk with people. Chat with readers online. Write a blog. Share short stories and poetry. Write reviews and participate in the author community. Mention your book when context allows, but don't shout "buy my book" in every message board and chat room. Basically, this part of it never ends. Some of us are better at it than others. I've noticed that those that are good at it have readers and bloggers and fellow authors behind them, cheering them on and spreading the word. I hardly ever see an author that has achieved that standing on the power of their own, personal promotion efforts. And, it takes time. Have I reached that level yet? No, but I am enjoying the journey there and feel lucky to have met some very interesting people along the way.
So, yes, I'm finished with The Freeze, but as you can see, there is a lot of work left to do. I'll keep you posted.
Why?
Because one thing I've learned since I started self-publishing is that when you think you're finished, you're usually wrong. No, take that back, you're definitely wrong, particularly if you are celebrating finishing your final draft.
So, you might ask, what's left to do?
Good question. Here's a quick list to give you an idea, and perhaps to give me one as well. A checklist of things I have yet to do.
1. Get a second look at the thing.
Honestly, I haven't done this in the right place yet. Getting a beta reader to look at your story should happen after you are confident it's ready for public eyes. Maybe this time, eh? I really should.
2. Format for publishing.
This gets tricky, particularly if you distribute through more than one venue, like I do. I've found that each one prefers, or even requires, a very specific set up. Some require standard front matter. You have to obtain an ISBN # and put it in the right place, or an ASIN # if you're publishing on Kindle. And, while you don't necessarily have to do it, you probably should write a quick note for the end of the book. Yeah, that's not really fun, but think about how you feel when you finish a good story and find that the author has tacked that personal touch at the end. I know I like it.
3. Come up with a back cover blurb.
This can also be the description you will post with the book on websites. For me they are either the same or very similar. I don't think I've yet mastered the art, but writing reviews has made the task easier. My goal is to write a single paragraph, short and sweet, that shows what the story is about and why the reader should want to read it. In any case, this needs to be ready before you go to publish. All the venues I use require you to post one, and some don't have a save progress option; it's all or nothing with those, so have it ready.
4. Craft a cover.
Ok, so this one's tricky. So far, I've done all my own covers, but I must say that you'll probably get better results if you hire someone with a solid portfolio and graphic artistry skills to do it for you. Then again, if you're like me, you don't have a budget for that just yet. So, I will be doing it again.
Right now, I'm looking at my topic and at my other books and thinking, "Holy cow, did I really just write another book that lends itself to a blue cover?" Sure, blue's my favorite color, but honestly, I'm not doing this on purpose. Can't make it white or the edges disappear on the selling pages. Le sigh.
So, yeah, you need a cover before you publish as well, and like the content, the cover needs to be formatted differently for different venues. I usually use the same one for Kindle and Smashwords, but the print one has to be a specific size and quality. And it has to be set up a bit odd because the top, bottom and right edges will be chopped off. That's a pain.
Photoshop helps, but not as a means to stitch together different pictures or fix a fundamentally flawed one. I use it to layer background color, image, boxes (on which to place the text), and text onto the cover. Don't get caught up in fancy fonts or complex images. Simple is good. Readable is good. Shrink your cover to the size it will be posted on Amazon. Can you still read it and tell what it says? And, like the content, ask a few people to give you their opinions.
5. Get ready to publish the book.
This is where you'll actually start uploading all the content, the cover, and the blurb. Personally, I like to load the book everywhere and save, but not publish. Then I like to order a print proof and do one more round of line editing. Whatever I catch there, I fix in all three formats: print, kindle and smashwords. It's amazing how many things you'll find in the print version of the book you thought was perfect. It's worth the few dollars you'll spend on the proof and the shipping. And yeah, this is another reason why I say I'm not done when I think I am. I know better.
6. Set a date and promote.
Yes, time to let people know the book's coming. There are a few ways to drum up interest. You can sign up for blog tours, book blitzes and schedule interviews. You can take out ads. You can recruit some ARC reviewers and get them to post their opinions before release date. So far, I've not been very good at this part of it, mostly because I just want to skip right to publishing. Because of that, I won't go into detail here.
7. Publish the book.
At this point, you are ready. Everything's in place. It's release day (or just prior to). You've announced/promoted. You're happy with the book, the cover and the blurb. You know where you're publishing. Now, just log in, hit publish and wait. Wait, because with self publishing, your book usually has to go through a review before it posts.
If you've done this before, you'll have a good idea how long it takes for each venue. Like for Amazon, I'll hit publish the night before release. For CreateSpace, I'll hit it 2-3 days before release. For Smashwords, well, I just post it on release day and the book filters out to the various booksellers over the course of a week, but it's available on the Smashwords site right away.
8. Promote the book.
And promote yourself and your brand. Talk with people. Chat with readers online. Write a blog. Share short stories and poetry. Write reviews and participate in the author community. Mention your book when context allows, but don't shout "buy my book" in every message board and chat room. Basically, this part of it never ends. Some of us are better at it than others. I've noticed that those that are good at it have readers and bloggers and fellow authors behind them, cheering them on and spreading the word. I hardly ever see an author that has achieved that standing on the power of their own, personal promotion efforts. And, it takes time. Have I reached that level yet? No, but I am enjoying the journey there and feel lucky to have met some very interesting people along the way.
So, yes, I'm finished with The Freeze, but as you can see, there is a lot of work left to do. I'll keep you posted.
Tuesday, December 2, 2014
YA Dystopian Review: The Sending by Jandy Salguero
The Sending by Jandy SalgueroMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
Great story.
The Sending is a YA Dystopian featuring a bit of romance and some sci-fi mixed with magic. Daneel is new to the city, attending school as is required for all citizens of Senitha, though his greatest aspiration in life is to raise a family and run a farm. Mara is a young assassin raised with just one goal in mind, to destroy the one man who threatens what little civilization remains after the great war.
The thing I like most about this story is how Mara and Daneel come together despite their backgrounds. I enjoy stories like this where people have to look past what society tells them they must do and make their own decisions. This wasn't so applicable to Daneel, but it was central to Mara's development. She was raised to be an assassin, brainwashed, but still not so far gone that she isn't open to new information. What makes it interesting is that she feels guilty about letting her conscience intervene.
I also like how easy it is to read this story, though we are kind of dropped right in the action up front. The plot is straightforward, though not everything is explained. I'm not sure about the ending. It's kind of a mix between cliffhanger and fully resolved story. It all depends on how you look at it. There's room for more, but if the assumptions made by the characters are true, then perhaps that's a wrap. Going by the fact this story is labeled Volume 1, I'm assuming that there's more and that things are going to get dicey in Volume 2.
I didn't quite buy into the romance, mostly because it's fueled by something Mara and Daneel cannot explain. The bond between them is incredibly strong, but it isn't based on deeper things like mutual respect, knowing each other, or even liking each other. Love seems to be tossed into the mix, at least from one of them, but I was left wondering how such a thing can really have developed? The deep connection they share could lead to love, but love is more than attraction, particularly under the strain of fighting for survival. The romance isn't really resolved at the end of this book, though it might seem like it is without considering what we are left with.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story. The pacing is good, there's plenty of action, and there are just enough open-ended questions at the end to lead into the next volume without leaving the reader unsatisfied at the end of the first one. I would recommend The Sending to those who like YA Dystopian with a touch of romance, sci-fi, and magic. The story could probably be read as a standalone, but personally I'd like to read more.
I found this book on Amazon during a free promotion.
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