And SOJOURN rolls on. The book is now a finalist for a Prism Award and for the Booksellers Best Award.
You know, I think I got this one right.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Sojourn Yet Again!
And SOJOURN rolls on. The book is now a finalist for a Prism Award and for the Booksellers Best Award.
You know, I think I got this one right.
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Sojourn Marches On!
What is it about this book? SOJOURN is a finalist for a Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Mystery/Suspense in the Paranormal division. The Daphnes, as they're called, are offered by the Kiss of Death Chapter of the Romance Writers of America. It's a chapter of "murderously-inclined romantics" who know how to write good books and have fun at the same time.I've finaled twice before in the Daphnes (named after Dame Daphne du Maurier) and won Honorable Mentions both times. Since those were self-published books, I was quite tickled with that as I was competing against NY-pubbed authors. I'm hoping SOJOURN proves strong enough to take first place this time.
The awards ceremony is at the Death by Chocolate Party (everything chocolate you could possibly think of) at the annual romance writers conference. Yummmm...
And now back to the packing. I'm off to Dallas tomorrow for A-Kon and the Writers' Workshop. I can't wait!
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Balticon 41
Nice weekend. Yeah, I know, I have to give more details that than. I roomed with She of the Titian Tresses (Jean Marie Ward) again and as usual we were up to no good. She kept me supplied in bottled water and oranges and that was well appreciated. We discovered a Wegman's (second cousin to a Whole Foods) and dined there for a couple of days. They had yummy sushi. We even went to Filene's Basement. I only found a pair of earrings, but that's probably best given the hit my credit cards have taken recently.
Balticon began with the Opening Ceremonies and the Compton Crook Award. The winner of that hallowed award was Naomi Novik for Her Majesty's Dragon. Very nice lady and one helluva talented author. Joshua Palmatier (I highly recommend his book The Skewed Throne) and I got to spend some time with each other (we did a signing together) and he's a kick. I dressed up for this con (I know, some of you just dropped to the floor in shock) but Josh had the right idea. He was comfy casual and when we ended up with a panel room that could double as a waiting room for Hell (temp wise, that is) he was just fine. I was dying. Walter Hunt, however, kept his cool. We traded quips and survived the panel (which was on high tech ways to promote yourself). I made a mental note to bring a fan next year.
Maria Snyder (last year's Compton Crook winner) had a session on poisons which I had to miss as I was doing a reading. Bummer. I heard it was really neat. I bought her book (gorgeous front cover) and I'm planning on starting it as I'm winging my way to Dallas on Thurs for A-Kon. The planes are too crowded now to allow me to do any computer work.
I got invited to a private single malt scotch tasting (grin) and hung with some really nice folks. The Baltimore Science Fiction Society are cool people and they read a LOT. We discussed all sorts of stuff. And as usual, I harassed Tee Morris and Tony Ruggerio because they're there. I do intend to make a trip to editor Ed Schubert's Intergalatic Medicine Show and spend some time reading the short stories once I made Virtual Evil's turn-in date. I know they'll be worth the time and who knows, maybe someday I'll pen one and submit it.
The next two days involve finishing the critiques for the A-Kon Workshop, washing clothes and repacking. Back on the road Thursday for five days in Dallas. When not called upon to do my duty to the con, I'll be in the bar working on my book edits. I've finally gotten to the point where noise doesn't bother me anymore. I suspect it's because of Starbuck's obsession with Frank Sinatra. Eventually your brain cells just block out everything lest Frank's singing might be involved.
Balticon began with the Opening Ceremonies and the Compton Crook Award. The winner of that hallowed award was Naomi Novik for Her Majesty's Dragon. Very nice lady and one helluva talented author. Joshua Palmatier (I highly recommend his book The Skewed Throne) and I got to spend some time with each other (we did a signing together) and he's a kick. I dressed up for this con (I know, some of you just dropped to the floor in shock) but Josh had the right idea. He was comfy casual and when we ended up with a panel room that could double as a waiting room for Hell (temp wise, that is) he was just fine. I was dying. Walter Hunt, however, kept his cool. We traded quips and survived the panel (which was on high tech ways to promote yourself). I made a mental note to bring a fan next year.
Maria Snyder (last year's Compton Crook winner) had a session on poisons which I had to miss as I was doing a reading. Bummer. I heard it was really neat. I bought her book (gorgeous front cover) and I'm planning on starting it as I'm winging my way to Dallas on Thurs for A-Kon. The planes are too crowded now to allow me to do any computer work.
I got invited to a private single malt scotch tasting (grin) and hung with some really nice folks. The Baltimore Science Fiction Society are cool people and they read a LOT. We discussed all sorts of stuff. And as usual, I harassed Tee Morris and Tony Ruggerio because they're there. I do intend to make a trip to editor Ed Schubert's Intergalatic Medicine Show and spend some time reading the short stories once I made Virtual Evil's turn-in date. I know they'll be worth the time and who knows, maybe someday I'll pen one and submit it.
The next two days involve finishing the critiques for the A-Kon Workshop, washing clothes and repacking. Back on the road Thursday for five days in Dallas. When not called upon to do my duty to the con, I'll be in the bar working on my book edits. I've finally gotten to the point where noise doesn't bother me anymore. I suspect it's because of Starbuck's obsession with Frank Sinatra. Eventually your brain cells just block out everything lest Frank's singing might be involved.
Friday, May 18, 2007
Independent Publisher Book Award
SOJOURN took the Gold Medal for the Science Fiction/Fantasy category in the Independent Publisher Book Awards. The contest drew almost 3700 entries from all 50 states, 8 Canadian provinces and 17 countries overseas.
The other winners in the category are:
Silver: The Future is Queer, edited by Richard Labonté and Lawrence Schimel (Arsenal Pulp Press)
Bronze: The Anvil Stone, by Kathleen Cunningham Guler (Bardsong Press); Red Ivy Afternoon, by Mark R. Brand (Silverthought Press); The Plants of Middle-Earth: Botany and Sub-Creation, by Dinah Hazell (Kent State University Press); Raising the Past, by Jeremy Robinson (Breakneck Books)
I think it's time to celebrate!
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Let There Be Questions (Part IV)
It's taken me longer than usual to work through the questions from the students at Kennesaw State University, but I'm getting there. Here's a few more --
From Rachel B. -- "Do you ever think of going to a larger press?"
Yes, I do, because it is one of the main ways to increase readership.
Dragon Moon Press is a vibrant independent (and growing) speculative fiction publisher. That being said, they are still considered a "small press" though no one really has a good definition of that term. That means that DMP does smaller press runs, usually employing short run technology (aka print-on-demand) or offset. They print their books in trade paperback (the 6" x 9" size) as compared to the mass market size because for a mm paperback you need to print at least 10K to be cost effective. Doing short run printings allows a smaller press to keep more $ in the pocket up front. It makes fiscal sense.
When I take my books to a bigger publisher, I will be looking to move to that mass market paperback size as the "price point" is lower. A trade paperback just costs more to produce whereas the web press newsprint paperbacks are cheaper. The difference in my case would be a $19.95 price point down to something in the $7.99 range. Readers are much more likely to take a chance on a new author (to them) at the lower price. So yes, I will eventually move my Time Rovers series to a bigger publisher so that more readers can enjoy the stories. Like most things, it comes down to a matter of dollars and sense.
From Anna M. -- "What is the latest thing you have read?" and "What is your favorite genre to read?"
That would be Jim Butcher's Harry Dresden Series. When I'm in the middle of final edits on my own manuscript, I need an hour or so a night to disconnect or I end up living the dratted thing 24/7. For a time I kept myself sane reading through Terry Pratchett's Discworld Series. During the current book (which has proved to be a major stretch for me) I immersed myself in Butcher's series. He has nine books out at present and they would be considered urban fantasy. I love his world, his characters and how he carries the suspense and the emotion from book to book. So right now I'm "into" Mr. Butcher's fine works. I haven't met the fellow yet (which is amazing given all the conventions I do each year) but I suspect we'll eventually bump elbows. I want to buy the guy his libation of choice and pick his brain on how to keep a series dynamic. He's planning on 20 books. That means he'd got a plan. I'd love to know how he does it.
My favorite genre is usually something paranormal with a heavy mystery element. Books like that can be urban fantasy or paranormal mystery. I'm pretty good with paranormal romance, but not always. Give me a vibrant world, a deep mystery and lots of questions and I'm good.
From Teddi M. -- "Who handles your public relations? How are they compensated?"
Up until last year, I handled all my own P.R. I'm really good at some things and I ignore other marketing avenues at my own peril. I decided it was best to have someone else out there pimping me, as it were, so I hired Two Sisters Promotions . Sherry & Kristen (who are indeed sisters) know how to keep my name in front of potential readers, how to work marketing venues I'm not familiar with and generally keep me on track. They handle my convention contracts (unless it's a convention at which I already have a standing agreement) and my book signings. They can do marketing while I'm writing my next book. We work together as a team and the arrangement has been absolutely wonderful. As to how are they compensated? They take checks or Lilliputians in small denominations (just kidding).
Teddi also asks -- "What do you think about sales of previously owned books on Ebay and other sources?"
Oh, that's a good question. Like all authors, I'd love to get a royalty for every time you bought my book, from the first time to the very last. Actors get residuals on shows they starred in decades before. Not authors. Where it would be lovely to get a cut of those earnings over the long haul, once the book is sold, there is no way to track where it goes and who buys it.
So, I live with the fact that someone can sell a used book out there cheaper than a new one of mine. I admit to buying used books. If I find I like the author, I will then buy the rest of the series new to help support my brothers and sisters slaving away at their keyboards. I figure other folks do the same -- they buy one of my books, like what I do and buy the rest new. At least that's my delusion.
From Rachel B. -- "Do you ever think of going to a larger press?"
Yes, I do, because it is one of the main ways to increase readership.
Dragon Moon Press is a vibrant independent (and growing) speculative fiction publisher. That being said, they are still considered a "small press" though no one really has a good definition of that term. That means that DMP does smaller press runs, usually employing short run technology (aka print-on-demand) or offset. They print their books in trade paperback (the 6" x 9" size) as compared to the mass market size because for a mm paperback you need to print at least 10K to be cost effective. Doing short run printings allows a smaller press to keep more $ in the pocket up front. It makes fiscal sense.
When I take my books to a bigger publisher, I will be looking to move to that mass market paperback size as the "price point" is lower. A trade paperback just costs more to produce whereas the web press newsprint paperbacks are cheaper. The difference in my case would be a $19.95 price point down to something in the $7.99 range. Readers are much more likely to take a chance on a new author (to them) at the lower price. So yes, I will eventually move my Time Rovers series to a bigger publisher so that more readers can enjoy the stories. Like most things, it comes down to a matter of dollars and sense.
From Anna M. -- "What is the latest thing you have read?" and "What is your favorite genre to read?"
That would be Jim Butcher's Harry Dresden Series. When I'm in the middle of final edits on my own manuscript, I need an hour or so a night to disconnect or I end up living the dratted thing 24/7. For a time I kept myself sane reading through Terry Pratchett's Discworld Series. During the current book (which has proved to be a major stretch for me) I immersed myself in Butcher's series. He has nine books out at present and they would be considered urban fantasy. I love his world, his characters and how he carries the suspense and the emotion from book to book. So right now I'm "into" Mr. Butcher's fine works. I haven't met the fellow yet (which is amazing given all the conventions I do each year) but I suspect we'll eventually bump elbows. I want to buy the guy his libation of choice and pick his brain on how to keep a series dynamic. He's planning on 20 books. That means he'd got a plan. I'd love to know how he does it.
My favorite genre is usually something paranormal with a heavy mystery element. Books like that can be urban fantasy or paranormal mystery. I'm pretty good with paranormal romance, but not always. Give me a vibrant world, a deep mystery and lots of questions and I'm good.
From Teddi M. -- "Who handles your public relations? How are they compensated?"
Up until last year, I handled all my own P.R. I'm really good at some things and I ignore other marketing avenues at my own peril. I decided it was best to have someone else out there pimping me, as it were, so I hired Two Sisters Promotions . Sherry & Kristen (who are indeed sisters) know how to keep my name in front of potential readers, how to work marketing venues I'm not familiar with and generally keep me on track. They handle my convention contracts (unless it's a convention at which I already have a standing agreement) and my book signings. They can do marketing while I'm writing my next book. We work together as a team and the arrangement has been absolutely wonderful. As to how are they compensated? They take checks or Lilliputians in small denominations (just kidding).
Teddi also asks -- "What do you think about sales of previously owned books on Ebay and other sources?"
Oh, that's a good question. Like all authors, I'd love to get a royalty for every time you bought my book, from the first time to the very last. Actors get residuals on shows they starred in decades before. Not authors. Where it would be lovely to get a cut of those earnings over the long haul, once the book is sold, there is no way to track where it goes and who buys it.
So, I live with the fact that someone can sell a used book out there cheaper than a new one of mine. I admit to buying used books. If I find I like the author, I will then buy the rest of the series new to help support my brothers and sisters slaving away at their keyboards. I figure other folks do the same -- they buy one of my books, like what I do and buy the rest new. At least that's my delusion.
Monday, May 14, 2007
Survival Skills 101?
I've been doing a lot of thinking since the shooting at VA Tech. Staying out of the gun debate, because that's just a lightning rod, I have a different suggestion: I think its time that we teach our kids survival tactics on top of how to balance a checkbook and how not get pregnant, etc. Times have changed. So must our appreciation of the danger.
This sort of re-evaluation happened in the airline industry after 9/11. Passenger tactics are no longer passive. Heaven help someone who tries to hijack a plane nowadays. Though it sincerely bums me to think we have to teach our kids how to survive some madman/madmen bent on body count, that's the way it is.
That means we need to rethink how they might respond to such a threat. Certainly I don't expect kids or teachers to play Rambo, but there might be some way to mitigate the death toll if we had a better idea of how to react than duck and cover. Such "adverse situation" training may seem bloody minded, but if it gives the kids a chance to survive until the cops get to a scene, then it's worth it.
That being said, I do not recommend the following stupid scenario:
Tennessee Teachers Stage Fake Gunman Attack
Talk about dumb.
Survival skills are not just for the classroom, they're for a number of ugly situations throughout life. Just like rape prevention, having a clue how to react in a bad situation can make an enormous difference. Until we find how to make it a less violent and dangerous world, we're shortchanging our youth by not giving them the skills to survive.
So what are your thoughts?
This sort of re-evaluation happened in the airline industry after 9/11. Passenger tactics are no longer passive. Heaven help someone who tries to hijack a plane nowadays. Though it sincerely bums me to think we have to teach our kids how to survive some madman/madmen bent on body count, that's the way it is.
That means we need to rethink how they might respond to such a threat. Certainly I don't expect kids or teachers to play Rambo, but there might be some way to mitigate the death toll if we had a better idea of how to react than duck and cover. Such "adverse situation" training may seem bloody minded, but if it gives the kids a chance to survive until the cops get to a scene, then it's worth it.
That being said, I do not recommend the following stupid scenario:
Tennessee Teachers Stage Fake Gunman Attack
Talk about dumb.
Survival skills are not just for the classroom, they're for a number of ugly situations throughout life. Just like rape prevention, having a clue how to react in a bad situation can make an enormous difference. Until we find how to make it a less violent and dangerous world, we're shortchanging our youth by not giving them the skills to survive.
So what are your thoughts?
Saturday, May 12, 2007
Why Books Can Be As Good As Kids
I'm not a mother. I passed on that option a number of years back for a number of reasons. In the long run, I know it was a sound move. I've long since got over my kid-phobia and now find well-mannered little munchins a treat. (Note the well-mannered in that sentence). You can have great fun with them and then hand the little mites back to their parents when they get cranky, or suddenly develop teething symptoms.
However, since it's Mother's Day, I'd like to offer my ideas of why books can can be better than kids. All tongue in check, of course, so don't go nuclear on this, okay?
Books Can Be Better Than Kids Because:
1) They may expect you to get up at 3 a.m. and take care of them, but they don't require diaper changes.
2) You never worry what your book is doing at midnight and if it's going to be in before curfew.
3) Books do not borrow your clothes.
4) Books do not whine at you about a new pair of tennis shoes, the latest album or why all the other books have cars.
5) Books don't show up on your doorstep, a wee book in their arms of unknown parentage.
6) Books can't be busted by the cops for possession of illegal substances.
7) Books do not get tattoos or studs on their covers.
8) Books do not get crushes, fall in love with other books that are too old for them or get divorces.
9) Books do not run up your phone bill, your charge card or get their pages dyed pink.
10) Books do not get speeding tickets, require braces or have an identity crises.
On the downside, books do not send you flowers for Mother's Day or give you a big hug and say "Love ya, mom."
So I wish all the mums out there a very happy day. Consider yourself lucky, ladies.
However, since it's Mother's Day, I'd like to offer my ideas of why books can can be better than kids. All tongue in check, of course, so don't go nuclear on this, okay?
Books Can Be Better Than Kids Because:
1) They may expect you to get up at 3 a.m. and take care of them, but they don't require diaper changes.
2) You never worry what your book is doing at midnight and if it's going to be in before curfew.
3) Books do not borrow your clothes.
4) Books do not whine at you about a new pair of tennis shoes, the latest album or why all the other books have cars.
5) Books don't show up on your doorstep, a wee book in their arms of unknown parentage.
6) Books can't be busted by the cops for possession of illegal substances.
7) Books do not get tattoos or studs on their covers.
8) Books do not get crushes, fall in love with other books that are too old for them or get divorces.
9) Books do not run up your phone bill, your charge card or get their pages dyed pink.
10) Books do not get speeding tickets, require braces or have an identity crises.
On the downside, books do not send you flowers for Mother's Day or give you a big hug and say "Love ya, mom."
So I wish all the mums out there a very happy day. Consider yourself lucky, ladies.
Monday, May 07, 2007
Let There Be Questions (Part III)
Working through the questions from the Kennesaw State students as time permits --
Julie M. poses this question -- "Who is in charge of marketing your books, you or Dragon Moon Press?"
Me. I know there are authors who still believe that their publisher should do all the heavy lifting when it comes to promotion, but that's not an option anymore. Two decades ago -- sure. Not today. Dragon Moon Press (DMP) supports me in all ways they are able, but ultimately it's up to me to see that my books are a success. That doesn't trouble me in the least. If five years down the line I've found my career hasn't gone anywhere, I do not want to bitch and moan that my publisher(s) should have done more. Perhaps they could have, but that's not the point. I don't want to have any personal regrets that I didn't take this to max when I had the opportunity.
From Zenia L. --"'History is much like a python. Once you're in its grip, there's little chance of escape.' Can you explain those words from your webpage?"
Geez, try to be cryptic just once. Let's look at it from the point-of-view of the prey. I can pretty much imagine a rodent's thoughts the moment it gets caught in a python's grip. "Gee, how'd that happen? Well, no sweat, I'll just sneak out... Humm... getting a bit tight here. Maybe if I wriggle this way...no... that didn't work. Whoa, now it's really getting tight. Maybe I better--" End of rodent.
We often find ourselves in the middle of a dicey situation before we realize it. Traveling in time would present the same opportunity to get entrapped in a situation that you hadn't anticipated. Like the python, once you're there and into the flow of events, it's darned hard to get free. That's the case with my characters, especially the time traveler Jacynda Lassiter. She goes to 1888 to do a job. Once there, she's trapped in a different reality, one that she has virtually no control over. She's a lot like the rodent encircled by the python, except it would be good if Jacynda survives to the end of the book so there can be a sequel.
Jennifer J. asks, "What have you found to be the most difficult part of promoting a new book?"
Attracting the readers' attention. Authors have so much competition: Lost, American Idol, CNN, longer work hours, elderly care issues, the Internet, XBox, ITunes. Not counting all the other new books. Capturing a reader's attention takes a lot of persistence. You have to have a topic that intrigues them, a really good delivery and leave them wanting more. In otherwords, published authors are a lot like high class courtesans (though those ladies get better pay). We have to be very good at what we do EVERY TIME. Not easy.
Persistence is a lot of it. So is luck. Author J.A. Konrath talks a lot about hitting that point in your career where luck kicks in and things start to happen and the years of effort needed to reach the sweet spot. I'm still creeping up on that point. When I reach it, I can't wait to see what happens next!
Julie M. poses this question -- "Who is in charge of marketing your books, you or Dragon Moon Press?"
Me. I know there are authors who still believe that their publisher should do all the heavy lifting when it comes to promotion, but that's not an option anymore. Two decades ago -- sure. Not today. Dragon Moon Press (DMP) supports me in all ways they are able, but ultimately it's up to me to see that my books are a success. That doesn't trouble me in the least. If five years down the line I've found my career hasn't gone anywhere, I do not want to bitch and moan that my publisher(s) should have done more. Perhaps they could have, but that's not the point. I don't want to have any personal regrets that I didn't take this to max when I had the opportunity.
From Zenia L. --"'History is much like a python. Once you're in its grip, there's little chance of escape.' Can you explain those words from your webpage?"
Geez, try to be cryptic just once. Let's look at it from the point-of-view of the prey. I can pretty much imagine a rodent's thoughts the moment it gets caught in a python's grip. "Gee, how'd that happen? Well, no sweat, I'll just sneak out... Humm... getting a bit tight here. Maybe if I wriggle this way...no... that didn't work. Whoa, now it's really getting tight. Maybe I better--" End of rodent.
We often find ourselves in the middle of a dicey situation before we realize it. Traveling in time would present the same opportunity to get entrapped in a situation that you hadn't anticipated. Like the python, once you're there and into the flow of events, it's darned hard to get free. That's the case with my characters, especially the time traveler Jacynda Lassiter. She goes to 1888 to do a job. Once there, she's trapped in a different reality, one that she has virtually no control over. She's a lot like the rodent encircled by the python, except it would be good if Jacynda survives to the end of the book so there can be a sequel.
Jennifer J. asks, "What have you found to be the most difficult part of promoting a new book?"
Attracting the readers' attention. Authors have so much competition: Lost, American Idol, CNN, longer work hours, elderly care issues, the Internet, XBox, ITunes. Not counting all the other new books. Capturing a reader's attention takes a lot of persistence. You have to have a topic that intrigues them, a really good delivery and leave them wanting more. In otherwords, published authors are a lot like high class courtesans (though those ladies get better pay). We have to be very good at what we do EVERY TIME. Not easy.
Persistence is a lot of it. So is luck. Author J.A. Konrath talks a lot about hitting that point in your career where luck kicks in and things start to happen and the years of effort needed to reach the sweet spot. I'm still creeping up on that point. When I reach it, I can't wait to see what happens next!
The Republican Debate
I have only one question--where were the women? (I'll leave the minority question to others). Lots of guys in suits but no females. After 231 years, the Repubs can't field a woman candidate? Talk about out of touch. And no, I'm not pimping for Hillary, either. I'm just wondering when both parties will catch up with the times.
Wednesday, May 02, 2007
Sojourn Strikes Again (Times Three)
SOJOURN is a finalist for the Desert Rose Golden Quill Award in the Paranormal Category. This book is astounding me on a daily basis. Wow. It makes getting up each morning and pounding your forehead on the keyboard truly worth it all. Trust me, there are moments when I say, "What was I thinking?" Peer and reader input from contests, reviews and such help make the work worthwhile.
Thanks everybody! And now back to the editing....
UPDATE -- THAT BOOK has been selected as one of the finalists for the Editors' Choice Award (ForeWord Magazine.) There are two awards given - one for fiction, the other for non-fiction. And there's a $1500 cash prize to go with that award.
FURTHER UPDATE -- What a week. THAT BOOK has been selected as a finalist for the Independent Publishers' Award in Science Fiction.
I just don't what to say anymore.
Sunday, April 29, 2007
The Legacy of an Imperial Presidency
One of the most fundamental aspects of our democracy is the balance of power between the three branches of government. It was designed to ensure that no one branch became more powerful than the others. The framers of the Constitution knew well how the use of arbitrary power could harm a nation. Unfortunately, the current occupant of the White House is not a student of American history.
To get a sense of where "The Decider" comes from, the following quote pretty much sums it up. Mr. Bush, in Bush at War, states, "I'm the commander -- see, I don't need to explain -- I do not need to explain why I say things. That's the interesting thing about being president. Maybe somebody needs to explain to me why they say something, but I don't feel like I owe anybody an explanation."
Mr. Bush (and the majority of his minions) have forgotten who actually "owns" this country. We are the shareholders. We're the ones funding this "company". When the CEO isn't doing what we want, he should go. If the Board of Directors ignores our pleas, they should go as well.
The White House has consistently taken an end run around Congress, often with their tacit blessing. They have made a mockery of our judicial system and played politics where law says they should not. They have eroded our civil liberties in the name of security. It is as if the rules do not apply.
I know Nancy Pelosi has said she does not want to take up the matter of impeachment. I strongly disagree. Mr. Bush, Mr. Cheney and Mr. Gonzales have damaged our democracy and I, for one, do not want that to stand. It sets a very dangerous precedent.
Would I take this same stand if the parties involved were Democrats? Yes. Partisan politics is not the issue, though those in Washington would love to have you believe that. The issue is the need for the citizenry to show those who hold office they do so at our good will and they'd best remember that. Impeaching Cheney, Bush & Gonzales will indicate to the rest of them that we will NOT allow anyone to hijack our country just because they think they own it.
It's time to send a message to the folks in Washington. Help us rebuild this nation and we're with you. Hare off on some delusional agenda and ignore the Constitution, we'll hold you accountable. We're the deciders, not you. Until they understand that, our democracy is risk.
To get a sense of where "The Decider" comes from, the following quote pretty much sums it up. Mr. Bush, in Bush at War, states, "I'm the commander -- see, I don't need to explain -- I do not need to explain why I say things. That's the interesting thing about being president. Maybe somebody needs to explain to me why they say something, but I don't feel like I owe anybody an explanation."
Mr. Bush (and the majority of his minions) have forgotten who actually "owns" this country. We are the shareholders. We're the ones funding this "company". When the CEO isn't doing what we want, he should go. If the Board of Directors ignores our pleas, they should go as well.
The White House has consistently taken an end run around Congress, often with their tacit blessing. They have made a mockery of our judicial system and played politics where law says they should not. They have eroded our civil liberties in the name of security. It is as if the rules do not apply.
I know Nancy Pelosi has said she does not want to take up the matter of impeachment. I strongly disagree. Mr. Bush, Mr. Cheney and Mr. Gonzales have damaged our democracy and I, for one, do not want that to stand. It sets a very dangerous precedent.
Would I take this same stand if the parties involved were Democrats? Yes. Partisan politics is not the issue, though those in Washington would love to have you believe that. The issue is the need for the citizenry to show those who hold office they do so at our good will and they'd best remember that. Impeaching Cheney, Bush & Gonzales will indicate to the rest of them that we will NOT allow anyone to hijack our country just because they think they own it.
It's time to send a message to the folks in Washington. Help us rebuild this nation and we're with you. Hare off on some delusional agenda and ignore the Constitution, we'll hold you accountable. We're the deciders, not you. Until they understand that, our democracy is risk.
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Let There Be Questions (Part II)
More questions from the Entertainment Marketing Class at Kennesaw State University --
Antonio O. asks, "Your biography mentioned that you do not wish to become overly popular in order to avoid public gossip and ridicule. Would you say that you have successfully reached most of the audience through your literature you intended?"
Remind me to reread my biography. It obviously needs some tweaking. I'm coming across all wrong. I would prefer not to hit the same level of fame/fortune as Ms. Rowling (and others) because your life ceases to be your own. At present, if I schlep out to the grocery store looking like the Bride of Godzilla nobody cares (except the poor checkout person who has probably seen worse). Once you reach a certain level of fame, you acquire folks who will want your photo to sell for LOTS of money. How much? $100K and way higher. Some of Kate Middleton's (Prince Wm's ex-girlfriend) were going for $250K. That's ridiculous. It's a bleedin' photo, folks. No wonder the woman is being stalked (literally) by the paparazzi.
Unfortunately, with the fame and $ comes the downside -- no privacy. Authors are less likely to be targeted than people who date the future King of England, but still that "moat" is breached. I like being a private person and so I'd much rather have a successful career, but not one that puts me in the Rowling stratosphere. She carries an immense weight on her shoulders because of the popularity of the kid named Harry. I'm happy to watch from the sidelines.
As for the ridicule or public gossip part, I'm not much worried about that. As long as my conscience is clear, I'm good to go. As to the actual question Antonio poses, I'm still reaching that reading audience book by book. It's a long slog until you reach critical mass. But just like a nuclear reactor, you don't want too many rods out at once.
Sarah B. -- "Where would you like to see the Time Rovers series go from here? How many novels to you see as part of the series?"
Well, if I ignore what I just said in the paragraphs above, it would be great if the Time Rovers series was made into movies, on TV, as little pocket watches in Happy Meals, etc. In all honesty, I would settle for solid books sales but I wouldn't bitch too much if they made a TV series out of Jacynda's exploits. It's not hurt Jim Butcher and his wizard Harry Dresden (great books, by the way). Much more than that is a bit over-the-top. I currently see about 5 or 6 books in the series. This is contrast to Mr. Butcher who says there are 20 and he already knows what is happening in them. Sigh... writers like that make me double the amount of single malt scotch in my glass. I only see a few books ahead which is an issue if you're trying to pull a big 3-book apocalyptic finale such as Jim is aiming for. So I just keep moving forward one at a time and hopefully I'll know when it's time to wrap things up so the books don't become STUPID.
Emily H posed a good question-- "You say that word count is not important when you are self-published, but is when you are writing for someone else. Why is this?"
I should have qualified that a bit. It is not as important when you're self-pubbed. If you want to go on for five hundred pages and can afford the printing bill, have at it. When you become traditionally published it is best to keep the books in the 80-125K word range. These fit better on the shelf. If your book is coming out as a mass market, then the 90-110K range is better as the booksellers can get three books in a rack that way. You get fatter books in mass market size (the paperbacks) when you get to be a big name author.
The key thing is that sometimes longer is not always better. I've read certain authors who could have trimmed two hundred pages easily, but their editor didn't take out the chainsaw. Pacing, as they call it, is everything. You want a page turner. That's not always easy to deliver.
Antonio O. asks, "Your biography mentioned that you do not wish to become overly popular in order to avoid public gossip and ridicule. Would you say that you have successfully reached most of the audience through your literature you intended?"
Remind me to reread my biography. It obviously needs some tweaking. I'm coming across all wrong. I would prefer not to hit the same level of fame/fortune as Ms. Rowling (and others) because your life ceases to be your own. At present, if I schlep out to the grocery store looking like the Bride of Godzilla nobody cares (except the poor checkout person who has probably seen worse). Once you reach a certain level of fame, you acquire folks who will want your photo to sell for LOTS of money. How much? $100K and way higher. Some of Kate Middleton's (Prince Wm's ex-girlfriend) were going for $250K. That's ridiculous. It's a bleedin' photo, folks. No wonder the woman is being stalked (literally) by the paparazzi.
Unfortunately, with the fame and $ comes the downside -- no privacy. Authors are less likely to be targeted than people who date the future King of England, but still that "moat" is breached. I like being a private person and so I'd much rather have a successful career, but not one that puts me in the Rowling stratosphere. She carries an immense weight on her shoulders because of the popularity of the kid named Harry. I'm happy to watch from the sidelines.
As for the ridicule or public gossip part, I'm not much worried about that. As long as my conscience is clear, I'm good to go. As to the actual question Antonio poses, I'm still reaching that reading audience book by book. It's a long slog until you reach critical mass. But just like a nuclear reactor, you don't want too many rods out at once.
Sarah B. -- "Where would you like to see the Time Rovers series go from here? How many novels to you see as part of the series?"
Well, if I ignore what I just said in the paragraphs above, it would be great if the Time Rovers series was made into movies, on TV, as little pocket watches in Happy Meals, etc. In all honesty, I would settle for solid books sales but I wouldn't bitch too much if they made a TV series out of Jacynda's exploits. It's not hurt Jim Butcher and his wizard Harry Dresden (great books, by the way). Much more than that is a bit over-the-top. I currently see about 5 or 6 books in the series. This is contrast to Mr. Butcher who says there are 20 and he already knows what is happening in them. Sigh... writers like that make me double the amount of single malt scotch in my glass. I only see a few books ahead which is an issue if you're trying to pull a big 3-book apocalyptic finale such as Jim is aiming for. So I just keep moving forward one at a time and hopefully I'll know when it's time to wrap things up so the books don't become STUPID.
Emily H posed a good question-- "You say that word count is not important when you are self-published, but is when you are writing for someone else. Why is this?"
I should have qualified that a bit. It is not as important when you're self-pubbed. If you want to go on for five hundred pages and can afford the printing bill, have at it. When you become traditionally published it is best to keep the books in the 80-125K word range. These fit better on the shelf. If your book is coming out as a mass market, then the 90-110K range is better as the booksellers can get three books in a rack that way. You get fatter books in mass market size (the paperbacks) when you get to be a big name author.
The key thing is that sometimes longer is not always better. I've read certain authors who could have trimmed two hundred pages easily, but their editor didn't take out the chainsaw. Pacing, as they call it, is everything. You want a page turner. That's not always easy to deliver.
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
WHEEE!!!!
Despite the "con crud" (as we call it on the convention circuit) that I managed to pick up at RavenCon, the news was good today. I love answering phone calls with this kind of information.
SOJOURN is a finalist for the National Readers' Choice Award (Oklahoma Romance Writers.) And I've heard that the book has been nominated for a Pluto Award, courtesy of the good folks at Yellow 30 Sci-Fi.
Hence the "WHEEE!!!!" in the title. It appears my book plays well across the genres. Makes this little author quite proud.
Monday, April 23, 2007
RavenCon Etal.
What a kick! I started my weekend in Richmond at Monacon High School doing a presentation to Miss McGrath's Humanities Class with Jean Marie Ward . We spoke about the use of history in science fiction and fantasy. It's not the most riveting subject, but we tried to bring it alive. On Friday we returned to part of a panel presentation with Tee Morris as moderator. I really liked talking to the kids. Authors, artists, etc., should do more of this. I went to high school with famous authors' kids and in the same city as the famed Iowa Writers Workshop. Even though our high school was actually affliated with the University of Iowa, none of them schlepped over to talk to us. Instead, we got lectures on drugs. Go figure.
Jean Marie and I roomed together. Other than a couple near misses in her automobile and my threats to do her in so I could steal her hardcover of the latest Harry Dresden novel (Jim Butcher, author) we did just fine. We both have a sardonic outlook on life and that plays well together.
RavenCon began that evening. I had heard about how organized this con was from last year's participants. There's organized and then there's ORGANIZED. Tony Ruggiero (Herr Program Director) walked the halls, notebook in hand, guiding guests to their panels and making sure everything was on the level. If there were problems at the con, I never saw them. The hotel staff treated us great. Sad to say, RavenCon has already outgrown the facility which is a mixed blessing. Not all hotels welcome SF&F conventions and can treat the fen shabbily. The DoubleTree did it right, much to their credit.
I had a Social Commentary Panel right off the bat with Author GOH Robert Sawyer, David Coe (who I hadn't seen in TWO years!), David Shelton and James Maxey. It went very well (she says, polishing her fingernails on her shirt). I was moderator and a bit nervous about this one--it's not an easy topic.
By the time we hit the 11 p.m. panel (OY!) we were a wee bit tipsy (okay, we were very tipsy) and it only got worse. Combine a liberal helping of single malt scotch with Tee Morris' Preferred Stock Rum and you have a very happy Jana. And a very happy Jean Marie... and a (you get the picture).
Saturday wasn't any less slow. I had the pleasure of signing next to John Wright. Actually, it was John signing and me watching, but that wasn't a hassle. I'd already heard scuttlebutt that John was "good people" and the rumors were true. He was great to talk to. Then this fellow walks up and asks me to sign this large (and gorgeous) print of my next book cover. And so I finally got to meet Christina Yoder (one of my cover artists) and her cool hubby Steve. My Plotting Workshop in the afternoon was to a full room. I made notes how to improve it the next time around. (Yes, that would involve PowerPoint -- groan.)
Throughout the weekend we talked politics, what's up with SFWA?, what's new in our lives and where our various careers are headed. It's always great to catch up with folks who share your passion for words and just kvetch.
By Sunday I was winding down. My final panel was on self pub, vanity presses and small presses. Rich White, CJ Henderson, Steve Cross and myself gave a good overview of what you can expect from all of the above.
After a strong appeal from David Coe, it appears I'm off to World Fantasy. Given the Compton Crook & ForeWord Awards hanging over my head (chuckle), it's time to make some more forward moves in the career. So I'll be off to Saratoga Springs, NY in November. For those of you who are geographically challenged, this is upstate NY. In November. This Georgia weenie is gonna freeze.
Off to find the Advil and the throat spray. A cold is settling in...
Sunday, April 15, 2007
Let There Be Questions (Part 1)
I recently made another jaunt to fair Kennesaw State Universiry and spoke to this semester's Entertainment Marketing Class. I give them an overview of how a book is produced and also talked about my buddy Scott Sigler's remarkable marketing skills.
As usual, the students handed in questions so over the coming weeks I'll be answering some of those queries. I plead a heavy schedule right now, but I will get to them bit by bit.
So let's start with this one from Ben C:
"On your website there is obviously a bit of sarcasm toward Rowling -- what are your true sentiments about what she has done with the genre?
Oh dear, it might be time for me to reread my website. If my comments came across as sarcastic then they're not right. I am awe of Ms. Rowlings' accomplishments in the face of a less than enthusiastic initial response to her first book. The woman didn't give up. I can't say much about her writing talent as I've only read the first three books and will finish the series when the last one comes out. As much as I want to know Harry's journey, I'd like to see the writer's as well. What Rowling did was reintroduce kids to fantasy and for that I heartily thank her. Once you've pried a kid's mind open with a book, it won't easily slam shut. Also, I sincerely respect her charity work. That being said, I have no desire to have her fame or her wealth. For me, it would distract from the writing.
Ben also asks: Do you feel that being adopted made your mind wander to sci-fi and fiction than that of someone raised by birth parents?
Now that's an intriguing question. I don't think the adopted bit actually skewed me in that direction. Instead, I think I was wired toward the supernatural. As an only child, I amused myself by reading and dreaming up stories in my head. I read almost no science fiction and only a bit of fantasy as a child, yet I write in those genres. Jim Butcher(The Dresden Files) on the other hand, was spoonfed science fiction and fantasy by his sisters. We come to the craft of writing in different ways. I suspect the adopted part of my past plays into my books somehow, but I haven't spotted it yet.
More down the line -- stay tuned....
As usual, the students handed in questions so over the coming weeks I'll be answering some of those queries. I plead a heavy schedule right now, but I will get to them bit by bit.
So let's start with this one from Ben C:
"On your website there is obviously a bit of sarcasm toward Rowling -- what are your true sentiments about what she has done with the genre?
Oh dear, it might be time for me to reread my website. If my comments came across as sarcastic then they're not right. I am awe of Ms. Rowlings' accomplishments in the face of a less than enthusiastic initial response to her first book. The woman didn't give up. I can't say much about her writing talent as I've only read the first three books and will finish the series when the last one comes out. As much as I want to know Harry's journey, I'd like to see the writer's as well. What Rowling did was reintroduce kids to fantasy and for that I heartily thank her. Once you've pried a kid's mind open with a book, it won't easily slam shut. Also, I sincerely respect her charity work. That being said, I have no desire to have her fame or her wealth. For me, it would distract from the writing.
Ben also asks: Do you feel that being adopted made your mind wander to sci-fi and fiction than that of someone raised by birth parents?
Now that's an intriguing question. I don't think the adopted bit actually skewed me in that direction. Instead, I think I was wired toward the supernatural. As an only child, I amused myself by reading and dreaming up stories in my head. I read almost no science fiction and only a bit of fantasy as a child, yet I write in those genres. Jim Butcher(The Dresden Files) on the other hand, was spoonfed science fiction and fantasy by his sisters. We come to the craft of writing in different ways. I suspect the adopted part of my past plays into my books somehow, but I haven't spotted it yet.
More down the line -- stay tuned....
Good Cover Chi & The Work At Hand
First thing -- the cover for Virtual Evil (Time Rovers - Book 2). It rocks. Between L.W. (Lynn) Perkins' work on the image of Harter Defoe in a Victorian back alley (complete with rats!) and Christina Yoder's cover design artistry, I'm so spoiled. To see a larger version, go here.
So what's up? Every writer has their delusion that once they turn in their current manuscript life will settle down to a dull roar. We all know that is a lie, but we still like to wrap ourselves in it nonetheless.
At present I'm engaged in a beta reader-induced tweaking of Virtual Evil (beta readers are a godsend but sometimes you wish they were a little less astute). I've rewritten the first half of the book and am working on the back half. This is in conjunction with making the editorial changes requested by the Divine Ms. A (my editor) for the first 100 pages.
Then there's the short story I'm penning for Aberrant Dreams. I got myself into this one. I said "Sure, I'd love to try a short story." Oy! It took a while to get out "novel mode" and into short story thinking. Once that happened, things started to move. Actually, I'm hoping AD likes the story. It's not often you combine an imp, a 5-yr old boy, a teacup hedgehog and a heiress named Paris Impton. Think Terry Pratchett if he'd gotten the bad drugs.
A nice bit of news surfaced in the last week or so--Sojourn is a nominee for the Pluto Award for Best New Voice in Science Fiction, courtesy of Yellow30 SciFi. And as a nod to my fantasies, The Circle of the Swan and The Summoning Stone are nominees for their Charon Award for Best Book from 1999-2005. WHEEEE! (Thanks, guys!)
And now back to that work at hand. Soon I'll be able to sit in my hot tub, Oban at my elbow, and know it's all behind me.
Tuesday, April 03, 2007
Just Like Indiana
A curious sideshow played out in an Baghdad market this week. Senator John McCain along with three other congressfolks visited the Shorja Market to show how well the new security plan was working. As Mike Pence, an Indiana Representative said, the market was "like a normal outdoor market in Indiana in the summertime."
What McCain and Pence didn't bother to mention is the entire COMPANY of soldiers (100+) deployed in armored Humvees, the snipers on the rooftops and attack helicopters in the air. The soldiers redirected traffic from the market and let our elected officials wander around buying rugs.
Yup, that sounds like a market in Indiana to me. Or Iowa, for that matter.
The merchants weren't having it and, according to reporters, let McCain and company know that life is NOT better for them. (See the NY Times article.) They know a publicity stunt when they see one and are bitter when they are used as "backdrop".
Perhaps the security plan is working, but not in this market. They've been bombed six times since summer. For McCain and buddies to tie up all those resources (which could be used to secure the peace) for what amounts to as a campaign photo-op is obscene.
Follow-up to the above courtesy of IraqSlogger blog: "What the American public did not know is that McCain's primary purpose is to get location and interview footage for a 60 Minutes segment with Scott Pelley to be broadcast this Sunday."
You just had to know it....
What McCain and Pence didn't bother to mention is the entire COMPANY of soldiers (100+) deployed in armored Humvees, the snipers on the rooftops and attack helicopters in the air. The soldiers redirected traffic from the market and let our elected officials wander around buying rugs.
Yup, that sounds like a market in Indiana to me. Or Iowa, for that matter.
The merchants weren't having it and, according to reporters, let McCain and company know that life is NOT better for them. (See the NY Times article.) They know a publicity stunt when they see one and are bitter when they are used as "backdrop".
Perhaps the security plan is working, but not in this market. They've been bombed six times since summer. For McCain and buddies to tie up all those resources (which could be used to secure the peace) for what amounts to as a campaign photo-op is obscene.
Follow-up to the above courtesy of IraqSlogger blog: "What the American public did not know is that McCain's primary purpose is to get location and interview footage for a 60 Minutes segment with Scott Pelley to be broadcast this Sunday."
You just had to know it....
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
AggieCon
I'm home from Texas and AggieCon. It was an absolutely great weekend. I was picked up at the Houston Airport by Kelly & Andy who also snagged up Author Guest of Honor Allan Cole. It's about an hour and a half drive from Houston to College Station and so we talked the whole way. Allan is not only an author, but also a screenwriter. The man had great stories to tell. He's written for such shows as A-Team, Magnum PI, Rockford Files, etc. And he's a great storyteller.
The con went smoothly. Allan and I "shared" a Guest Host (Dakota Blair) who made sure we were fed, watered and made our panels on time. We had more than one deep conversation about mathematics (his specialty), politics and life in general. It was one of the rare conventions where my IQ actually went UP.
I got to meet up with old friends (Teresa Patterson, Rhonda Eudaly -- she of the sizeable engagement ring and the cute fiancee), Tom Knowles and Gloria Oliver. I also got to chat with Alan Porter, a delightful Brit with a nifty book about the Beatles' early years. We traded theories about Jack the Ripper, which is always an intriguing topic. Joan Upton Hall and I discussed the finer points of indy publishing and Jennifer DiCamillo astounded me with the sheer volume of her work.
The panels went well, especially the paranormal romance panel. I was moderator and by that time of the evening I'd indulged into two huge cups of Dr. Pepper and was pretty much flying from the sugar and caffeine. Better than some other substances I might abuse.
I found the Aggie campus a contrast. You have the usual college students and then there were the uniformed members of their Corps (military). Strange juxtaposition, but it worked. Like always, the good folks from Texas are very polite. I could get used to being called "ma'am."
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Truth and Consequences
The latest news from Washington – Mr. Rove, Ms. Miers and others will be happy to talk to our elected officials about the Fed attorney firings. Oh, but there are a few strings attached. Nothing much, mind you, just that:
2) Not under oath
3) No transcript will be generated
4) There will no subsequent testimony
5) No subsequent subpoenas
So if the congress persons cave in, you and I won't get the opportunity to judge for ourselves what's going on behind the curtain. "No transcript and not under oath" means Rove etal can lie like troopers because it'll all come down to memory and there will be no repercussions. "No subsequent testimony" means that if they do lie, you can't haul their behinds back in and grill 'em about those falsehoods. And the "no subsequent subpoenas" just hamstrings any further investigations.
Monday, March 19, 2007
Whee!!
I was thrilled to hear that SOJOURN is one of four finalists for the Compton Crook/Stephen Tall Award from the Baltimore Science Fiction Soceity. This is great news. Previous winners include the likes of Eliz. Moon, Josepha Sherman (who can belt Broadway tunes with the best of them) and Holly Lisle.
I'll hear the end of April if SOJOURN is the winner. Either way, this is a real kick!!!
I'll hear the end of April if SOJOURN is the winner. Either way, this is a real kick!!!
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