This week we Welcome the weekend with a gentleman who has spent his life in publishing. He is the CEO of Boyd printing and Publishing, Carl Johnson. He gives us a glimpse of the world of books from a publishers perspective.
What made you decide to go into publishing?
After over 30 years in book printing, and seeing all the changes, it appeared there was a need for an authors to be able to self publish effectively, which means planning and marketing. As the giant publishers gobble up or kill the medium sized independents, an author's options shrink dramatically. Many of the traditional "vanity publishers" provide no real marketing or ways for the author to succeed financially. Our goal is to fill that gap.
Describe for us your journey in publishing from just starting out to your current position as CEO at Boyd Printing & Publishing.
Having production and composition services along with fulfillment and warehousing, we added some editorial free-lancers and after much evaluation added an honest, effective book marketing partner.
How has the publishing world changed over the years?
As the large publishers acquired the independents, it appeared to me that the risk-taking of 20 years ago had given way to people in cubicles running a prospective manuscript through a spreadsheet to figure out how many units (they are not called books) will be sold and what the ROI is. This is fine if you are Dan Brown, not so good if you are unknown.
What impact do you think digital books will have on book publishing? Are bound books destined to become endangered species?
Digital books is a phrase that covers a mulitude of things. Is a digital book a POD, low res, high unit cost book that will keep an author from making any real money? Is a digital book a 100 to 200 copy, sheet fed, paperback that might allow an author with limited funds to test the market? Is a digital book a 750 run, full color hard bound book run on an expensive "digtial web"?
The answer to all is yes. So digital printing is having a big impact as it offers muliple opportunities to get started. It would be better to descibe a book by the number of copies and unit cost than the method of manufacture.
I doubt bound books will go away for a long time. Even E-books must be sold at a high enough price to allow the publisher/author to cover writing, editorial, marketing and a profit. 10 years from now, 20 years from now, who knows. But in the forseeable future, although E-books will take increasing market share, it will be a while before they have 50% of the market, let alone all of it.
What do you feel is the most important thing that a first-time author should know?
Answer the question why am I doing this - a hobby....to develop my professional standing....to make money when I give speeches or classes....to build a career as a writer. Second, do a marketing plan, and estimate all your costs, figure out how you are going to finance it.
Tell us about your current company- Boyd Printing & Publishing? What are your goals and/or mission as a publisher? And what makes your company different from others?
Boyd Printing & Publishing wants to give authors who are serious about getting a book out and making money a real way to achieve their goals. We do not trap them into contracts where they end up buying back copies of their own books. Our goal is their success. We are different because we bring all the services of a complete traditional publisher to bear on the challenges the author faces in succeeding. Although the author must pay for the services, all proceeds from the sales of all copies go directly to the author. We do not keep half of each copy for "production costs".
What advice would you give to someone wanting to break into the publishing world (not as an author)?
There are many things there - marketing, buying, editorial, general management, acquisitions. If you want to break into publishing, you will probably end up in "Corporate America". Match the various segments with your talents and go in that direction.
On a personal level, what books do you enjoy reading?
Well researched historical fiction and well done mystery/spy books.
If you were to become stranded on a deserted island with three other people who were either authors or characters from books, who would you want them to be and what would be your topic (s) of conversation?
Way too many choices here. This could be a discussion for an hour.
If you were to jump in a time capsule and land 200 years into the future, what do you invision the publishing world to have evolved into?
The only thing for sure, is that it will not be what we expect. In the 70's the movie 2001 A Space Odyssey was released. In it a man on the space station goes to a pay phone to call Earth. No one had even considered cell phones. So who knows.
What do you do in your free time, for fun or to relax?
I spend time with my wife of over 40 years and our dogs, children and grandchildren.
Be sure to check our Boyd Printing and Publishing's website.
Friday, January 29, 2010
Thursday, January 28, 2010
The Creed of Violence by Boston Teran
This book was provided by the author.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Prophecy of Power by Andrew Parker
I’m always delighted when I come across a debut novel that blows me away. There are some reviewers that feel they need to be more critical of an author’s first work, focusing on an in-depth analysis of all the technical components of the work. It’s a given that every first novel is going to have some flaws. To be honest, I read to enjoy a story not dissect it. However, we’ve all read a book where the flaws make it hard to focus on the story. Prophecy of Power is Andrew Parker’s first novel, but it is so captivating, I was instantly drawn into the story and kept enthralled until the last page. Actually, I’m still enthralled and anxiously waiting for him to finish the sequel. I read others reviews of this book before I picked it up and while they were favorable, several did make a point of focusing on minor technical flaws. For me, if there were mistakes, I was too mesmerized by the characters and story to notice.
Prophecy of Power brings to life parts of the Book of Revelations in a very timely manner. Parker takes the mysticism out of the bible’s final book and gives it modern relevance. The central character, Rabbi Jacob Droutman has led an unassuming life. As he discovers he is questioning his Jewish beliefs and exploring his curiosity of other religions, he becomes entangled in murder, missing persons, government deceptions and cover-up plots by religious powers. He begins a journey that will put his life and others in jeopardy as he tries to solve a mystery that could reveal who the final world power is that signals the end of days. There are those who will do anything to find the answers and others who will stop at nothing to keep them hidden. Parker has written an enigmatic page turner that will have you holding your breath as you wait to see what happens next. Five out of five stars.
Be sure to check out his website http://www.andrewjparker.co.uk/
This ebook was provided by the author
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Random Thoughts - Who really loves their pets & who just has them to say they do?
I'm an animal lover. I gravitate towards cats. We seem to be kindred spirits and maybe in a former life I was definitely feline. But I love all animals and can never understand how some people can treat them as if they are nothing or worse abuse them or watch them die a horrible death. I just don't get it!
I was inspired to write this post after becoming, like many in my area, outraged when I heard of a house fire that occured last week here in Wilmington, NC. I try really hard not to be a judgemental person. I know it's not my place or my right, however sometimes things anger me so badly that I have to give them a voice. That fire is one of those things. I'll be honest, I don't know every detail of what happen but I do know enough to know that the owners of the house senselessly let two animals die in it, and in my opinion they should never ever be allowed to have another pet!! Period!!
Here's the story - apparently someone was smoking something and decided not to properly extingish it before going to bed. Being the animal lovers that they were, they thought nothing of keeping their family dog locked in a crate in their garage. Yes, please note I said garage. You know the room that not only has a regular type door but has one of those huge, almost covers a whole wall type door that lifts up. Well, apparently at around 1am, the family was awoken by the barking of the dog and realized the house was on fire. They all managed to get out of the house with no complications, in fact were just hanging out when fire crews arrived. It was then reported that their cat and their dog, YES, THE ONE WHOSE BARKING SAVED THEIR LIVES!!, both of these animals perished in the fire. Several days later after receiving much condemnation from people in the community for not trying to save their animals (if you see pictures, you will note the house was not completely destroyed, in fact much was still livable), they blamed it on their 14 yr old child, and said the child opened the garage door from the house and saw flames therefore shut it and they could not get to the dog that again was responisible for saving their lives. That was apparently the only effort made to save the poor terrified and loyal animal.
I don't know about anyone else, but I love animals. My animals are like my children and if my house ever catches on fire I would die, literally before I would let them perish inside. But then I would do that for any animal, because in a fire they can not defend themselves. They don't know what to do. They are alone and terrified and I would rather mine get lose and have to try to find them later than let them suffer that agony. So, you see why I am outraged by this story. Is it just me? Are there others who feel as I do? Am I wrong to be outraged and feel they should never be allowed to own a pet? Please leave your comments and thoughts.
I was inspired to write this post after becoming, like many in my area, outraged when I heard of a house fire that occured last week here in Wilmington, NC. I try really hard not to be a judgemental person. I know it's not my place or my right, however sometimes things anger me so badly that I have to give them a voice. That fire is one of those things. I'll be honest, I don't know every detail of what happen but I do know enough to know that the owners of the house senselessly let two animals die in it, and in my opinion they should never ever be allowed to have another pet!! Period!!
Here's the story - apparently someone was smoking something and decided not to properly extingish it before going to bed. Being the animal lovers that they were, they thought nothing of keeping their family dog locked in a crate in their garage. Yes, please note I said garage. You know the room that not only has a regular type door but has one of those huge, almost covers a whole wall type door that lifts up. Well, apparently at around 1am, the family was awoken by the barking of the dog and realized the house was on fire. They all managed to get out of the house with no complications, in fact were just hanging out when fire crews arrived. It was then reported that their cat and their dog, YES, THE ONE WHOSE BARKING SAVED THEIR LIVES!!, both of these animals perished in the fire. Several days later after receiving much condemnation from people in the community for not trying to save their animals (if you see pictures, you will note the house was not completely destroyed, in fact much was still livable), they blamed it on their 14 yr old child, and said the child opened the garage door from the house and saw flames therefore shut it and they could not get to the dog that again was responisible for saving their lives. That was apparently the only effort made to save the poor terrified and loyal animal.
I don't know about anyone else, but I love animals. My animals are like my children and if my house ever catches on fire I would die, literally before I would let them perish inside. But then I would do that for any animal, because in a fire they can not defend themselves. They don't know what to do. They are alone and terrified and I would rather mine get lose and have to try to find them later than let them suffer that agony. So, you see why I am outraged by this story. Is it just me? Are there others who feel as I do? Am I wrong to be outraged and feel they should never be allowed to own a pet? Please leave your comments and thoughts.
Monday, January 25, 2010
Embrace the Struggle: Living Life on Life’s Terms by Zig Ziglar
This book was provided by the author.
Friday, January 22, 2010
Welcome to the Weekend With ... Author C.D. Baker
This week we are going to welcome our weekend with a wonderful inspirational author, CD Baker. His book, 40 Loaves, which I reviewed in December, is so simple yet inspiring. I have used it as a basis for a 40 day posting on my other blog Whispering to God.
First tell us a little about you- (brief bio- a sentence or two) I write from my small farm in Bucks County, Pennsylvania where I live with my wife, Sue. I have a master’s degree in theology from the University of St. Andrews in Scotland. I’ve learned that life is hard and religion doesn’t work but grace remains.
When did you first start writing and did you always want to be an author?
I had hoped to be a writer from elementary school onwards and had written a 5th grade comic strip. I began serious writing in the 1980’s with some not-to-be-published children’s books, then began my first published novel in February, 1994.
What is the most challenging aspect of writing? Most rewarding?
The marketing side of writing is very difficult; it’s hard to get your work noticed amongst such a variety of really good authors. However, reader feedback, even when critical is very exciting.
40 Loaves is such a wonderful tool. What inspired you to write 40 Loaves?
I spoke with a Catholic nun in Britain whose heart was heavy regarding her failing faith. I encouraged her to just go ahead tell God anything…and while she was at it, she should go ahead and ask Him anything. The look of joy and relief on her face reminded me that many of us are afraid to be totally honest with God. We harbor lots of thoughts and questions in fear, so I thought I’d explore some of our questins out loud in hopes of inspiring others to enjoy the freedom of Christ’s unconditional love.
How long, on average, does it take to write a book?
I write/research full-time and my novels have varied from one year to four, my devotionals about seven months.
What about the life you have led has helped or hindered your writing/creativity?
My failures in life have contributed to a deeper understanding of myself, the human condition generally, and the power of the Gospel, each of which have added depth to my work. However, my relentless work ethic sometimes interferes with my joy in writing, and the strain of the marketplace can be a discouraging distraction.
What do you hope for your writing career in the next few years? Any goals that you have yet to obtain that you have set for yourself?
I’d be dishonest if I said I wasn’t hoping for better sales! The reality of the marketplace is that publishers only offer what they think they can sell. Since I believe in my work, I really do hope my work gets broader attention so I can keep writing professionally. Otherwise, my only conscious goal is to be content with however God wills to use my work.
Who are your favorite authors?
Depending on my mood, T.S. Elliot, C.S. Lewis, Richard Bauckham, Honer de Balzac, and Thomas Mann.
You can influence any one thing in the entire history, the present or the future of the world (what has occurred, how something works, etc.). What would you choose to change and why?
Oh my. Wow. Well…besides keeping Eve away from the serpent, I’d probably want to impact the nature of the Enlightenment so that Rationalism was kept in check by an appropriate appreciation for mystical realities. (I know…that would require a whole book to explain…sorry!)
If you could spend the day with one person (someone in history, a favorite author, a public figure, a character in a book, etc.), who would you choose and why?
Assuming you mean other than Jesus, I would say John the Beloved who is the likely author of the Gospel of John, the epistles of John, and Revelation. Though not a member of the Twelve (that was John of Zebedee), John was especially gifted with deep, sensitive insight into the life and meaning of Christ.
What words of wisdom would you share with your fans?
Ask the Spirit to show you more of your heart so that as you face the gravity of your shortcomings you will be more dependent on God’s grace. This in turn will set you free from the suffocating power of the Self and enable you to rest in the joy of His love.
Here is a wonderful video interview with CD Baker:
Be sure to also visit his website for more of his wonderful work.
First tell us a little about you- (brief bio- a sentence or two) I write from my small farm in Bucks County, Pennsylvania where I live with my wife, Sue. I have a master’s degree in theology from the University of St. Andrews in Scotland. I’ve learned that life is hard and religion doesn’t work but grace remains.
When did you first start writing and did you always want to be an author?
I had hoped to be a writer from elementary school onwards and had written a 5th grade comic strip. I began serious writing in the 1980’s with some not-to-be-published children’s books, then began my first published novel in February, 1994.
What is the most challenging aspect of writing? Most rewarding?
The marketing side of writing is very difficult; it’s hard to get your work noticed amongst such a variety of really good authors. However, reader feedback, even when critical is very exciting.
40 Loaves is such a wonderful tool. What inspired you to write 40 Loaves?How long, on average, does it take to write a book?
I write/research full-time and my novels have varied from one year to four, my devotionals about seven months.
What about the life you have led has helped or hindered your writing/creativity?
My failures in life have contributed to a deeper understanding of myself, the human condition generally, and the power of the Gospel, each of which have added depth to my work. However, my relentless work ethic sometimes interferes with my joy in writing, and the strain of the marketplace can be a discouraging distraction.
What do you hope for your writing career in the next few years? Any goals that you have yet to obtain that you have set for yourself?
I’d be dishonest if I said I wasn’t hoping for better sales! The reality of the marketplace is that publishers only offer what they think they can sell. Since I believe in my work, I really do hope my work gets broader attention so I can keep writing professionally. Otherwise, my only conscious goal is to be content with however God wills to use my work.
Who are your favorite authors?
Depending on my mood, T.S. Elliot, C.S. Lewis, Richard Bauckham, Honer de Balzac, and Thomas Mann.
You can influence any one thing in the entire history, the present or the future of the world (what has occurred, how something works, etc.). What would you choose to change and why?
Oh my. Wow. Well…besides keeping Eve away from the serpent, I’d probably want to impact the nature of the Enlightenment so that Rationalism was kept in check by an appropriate appreciation for mystical realities. (I know…that would require a whole book to explain…sorry!)
If you could spend the day with one person (someone in history, a favorite author, a public figure, a character in a book, etc.), who would you choose and why?
Assuming you mean other than Jesus, I would say John the Beloved who is the likely author of the Gospel of John, the epistles of John, and Revelation. Though not a member of the Twelve (that was John of Zebedee), John was especially gifted with deep, sensitive insight into the life and meaning of Christ.
What words of wisdom would you share with your fans?
Ask the Spirit to show you more of your heart so that as you face the gravity of your shortcomings you will be more dependent on God’s grace. This in turn will set you free from the suffocating power of the Self and enable you to rest in the joy of His love.
Here is a wonderful video interview with CD Baker:
Be sure to also visit his website for more of his wonderful work.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
The Five Secrets of Oz: An Empowering Message of Life Transformation and Finding Your Inner Light by Steve Garrison
This book was provided by the author.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Dirty Little Angels by Chris Tusa
Dirty Little Angels by Chris Tusa is a gritty tale about the seedy side of life in New Orleans. Although the story centers around the teenage, Hailey, there are many satellite characters who take focus in this tale. This is not a feel good story. You won’t have any warm fuzzy feelings when you are done reading it. But what it is, is real and true to life, at least a life for a certain section of society. What you will get out of this book is how some people live and allow their lives to become what they are and it will make you all the more thankful for the life you have. I have led a very diverse and interesting life and can say that there was not one single character I could identify with, however being a visual person, the beautifully descriptive way Tusa writes gives you a feel of looking through a portal at the lives of these characters. 3 out of five stars.
This ebook was provided by the author.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
An Award and an Update
I also want to take time today to give you an update about what's going on with this blog right now and what the future holds. I know some of you are probably wondering about the stream of short book reviews. For those of you who don't know me personally, I work a 50+ hour a week day job and blog in my free time. I know, right, what free time! At the end of 2009, I received tons of books from authors and publishers and spent much of my Christmas break reading them all and writing up reviews, which are currently posting and will continue thru mid-February. I have tried to cut down on my tendency to be verbose as I know many of you have busy lives also. So I try to keep it short, sweet and to the point. I am also cutting down on the books I'm accepting. As much as I love to read everything I can get my hands on, I just don't have the time. Plus my stack of store bought books is growing and I really want to get to my favorite authors. I will still be on the look out for new authors and books you don't see on every other blog.
In Mid-February, I plan to spice it up a bit. I hope to continue with Interviews on Friday (hint, hint- if you want to be in the spotlight, send me an email). Mon. thru Thurs. I'm going to change it up. I hope to bring back The Good The Bad and The Ugly Wednesday (again, I'm open to suggestions). I also plan to post more movie/DVD reviews. You may also be getting some Random Thoughts posts on things happening in our world today and in our blog world. Finally, I'm working on multiple post for Ember and plan to start posting her story as a regular feature. Others will still be welcome to pick up her story, but as her story went cold in the world of Cheese, I think she needs a steady stream of adventures. And of course I need the writing practice, so be on the look out.
So that's why, right now you are getting mostly book reviews and what you can expect in the coming months. I just past the 6 month mark and am still tweaking the blog. I welcome any feedback, what you like, what you don't like, what you want to see more of, etc. Thanks for all your support! You make blogging worth it!!
Monday, January 18, 2010
Sanctuary by N.E. Julian
This book was provided by the author.
Friday, January 15, 2010
Welcome to the Weekend With.... Ashley Boyer
There are so many of us that are avid readers and a few that are budding authors as well. Too often we simply look at the book and not the journey it takes to put those books in our hands. This week we welcome in the weekend with a special guest from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group, a branch of Random House. Ashley Boyer is a publicist at WaterBrook Multnomah and helps get many of the authors, whose works we read get the word. Since many people outside the publishing world don't know what a publicist does I asked Ashley to give us a glimpse at the publishing world through her eyes and where her journey started.
First, tell us a little about yourself.
I’m a 20-something publicist living in Colorado, but I grew up in Missouri. So far in my career I’ve worked as corporate communications assistant for a foster care/adoption agency, an editor at a magazine for teen girls, and as a publicist for an imprint of RandomHouse.
What made you decide to go into publishing?
I’ve always enjoyed words and the way they go together to tell a story, and expressing myself through writing came naturally. I’ve been fortunate to be on both sides of the publishing coin: as a writer and as one who gets publicity for writers.
Describe for us your journey in publishing from just starting out to your current position.
I graduated from Taylor University with a degree in English, and minors in Spanish and Journalism. After internships with Focus on the Family and Cooking Light magazine post-college, I moved to Colorado and worked for a year for a foster care agency, doing corporate communications and donor events. Then I worked for several years as an associate editor for Brio magazine, where I got to edit articles, interview interesting people, and brainstorm fun ideas to make each issue engaging and entertaining. Sadly, that magazine ceased publication in early 2009, at which time I found myself no longer receiving press releases, but being the one to send them in my new position as publicist at WaterBrook Multnomah.
What impact do you think digital books will have on book publishing? Are bound books destined to become endangered species?
I think that’s the question EVERYONE in book publishing is trying to answer! I hope there’s always a place for printed books, but I guess we’ll just have to see what the future holds!
What do you feel is the most important thing that a first-time author should know?
From a publicity standpoint, being willing and available for media, no matter how big the reach might be, can be really important. Every interview helps to sell the book, and we depend on authors to do what they do best-be available to talk about their book!
What advice would you give to someone wanting to break into the publishing world (not as an author)?
Read a lot! Being well-informed about publishing trends and what makes for good writing will serve you well in whatever part of publishing you find yourself.
How involved do you get with individual authors when helping them promote a book (do you offer guidance, set up a lot of things for them, etc)?
Each author and publicity campaign can vary greatly, as we look to send press materials to different audience types. Some authors have a strong online presence, so a blog tour might be the best way to reach potential readers, who are already used to engaging with the author through online media. For another author, it might be a strong radio campaign, or a book-signing tour. As a publicist, I look at each book and decide the best way to let media know about it, so my involvement looks different for each campaign.
Share with us one fun fact or event that you have encountered in the publishing world.
I’ve been privileged to work with some of the same contacts as a publicist that I worked with as a magazine editor. It’s fun to continue to build those relationships with other industry professionals. But copies of every book we publish is great too!
On a personal level, what books do you enjoy reading?
Honestly, I like to read everything from chick-lit to biographies. A story that draws me in and teaches me something I didn’t know before is always worth my time. With access to so many amazing titles, I’m afraid my to-be-read list extends into the next 10 years!
If you were attending a slumber party with three other people who were either authors or characters from books, who would you want them to be and what would be your topic (s) of conversation?
I would want any of the leading ladies from a Jane Austen book to be there. I would love to discuss what love and romance looked like during that era. I think talking with Jane Austen herself would be equally as fascinating!
If you were to jump in a time capsule and land 200 years into the future, what do you envision the publishing world to have evolved into?
Interesting question! Perhaps everything would be digital, and everyone would have an e-reader implanted into their head, which would automatically download the book’s info into their long-term memory. Or maybe robots will have replaced publicists!
What do you do in your free time, for fun or to relax?
Since I live in Colorado, I like to take advantage of the close proximity of the ski resorts! I’m currently training to run my second half-marathon, catching up on season 5 of LOST, and doing some freelance magazine writing.
A special thanks to Ashley, for taking time out of her busy schedule to answer our questions!
Be sure and visit WaterBrook Multnomah for some great books and check back here next week when we welcome the weekend with one of Ashley's authors, C.D. Baker, author of 40 Loaves.
First, tell us a little about yourself.
I’m a 20-something publicist living in Colorado, but I grew up in Missouri. So far in my career I’ve worked as corporate communications assistant for a foster care/adoption agency, an editor at a magazine for teen girls, and as a publicist for an imprint of RandomHouse.
What made you decide to go into publishing?
I’ve always enjoyed words and the way they go together to tell a story, and expressing myself through writing came naturally. I’ve been fortunate to be on both sides of the publishing coin: as a writer and as one who gets publicity for writers.
Describe for us your journey in publishing from just starting out to your current position.
I graduated from Taylor University with a degree in English, and minors in Spanish and Journalism. After internships with Focus on the Family and Cooking Light magazine post-college, I moved to Colorado and worked for a year for a foster care agency, doing corporate communications and donor events. Then I worked for several years as an associate editor for Brio magazine, where I got to edit articles, interview interesting people, and brainstorm fun ideas to make each issue engaging and entertaining. Sadly, that magazine ceased publication in early 2009, at which time I found myself no longer receiving press releases, but being the one to send them in my new position as publicist at WaterBrook Multnomah.
What impact do you think digital books will have on book publishing? Are bound books destined to become endangered species?
I think that’s the question EVERYONE in book publishing is trying to answer! I hope there’s always a place for printed books, but I guess we’ll just have to see what the future holds!
What do you feel is the most important thing that a first-time author should know?
From a publicity standpoint, being willing and available for media, no matter how big the reach might be, can be really important. Every interview helps to sell the book, and we depend on authors to do what they do best-be available to talk about their book!
What advice would you give to someone wanting to break into the publishing world (not as an author)?
Read a lot! Being well-informed about publishing trends and what makes for good writing will serve you well in whatever part of publishing you find yourself.
How involved do you get with individual authors when helping them promote a book (do you offer guidance, set up a lot of things for them, etc)?
Each author and publicity campaign can vary greatly, as we look to send press materials to different audience types. Some authors have a strong online presence, so a blog tour might be the best way to reach potential readers, who are already used to engaging with the author through online media. For another author, it might be a strong radio campaign, or a book-signing tour. As a publicist, I look at each book and decide the best way to let media know about it, so my involvement looks different for each campaign.
Share with us one fun fact or event that you have encountered in the publishing world.
I’ve been privileged to work with some of the same contacts as a publicist that I worked with as a magazine editor. It’s fun to continue to build those relationships with other industry professionals. But copies of every book we publish is great too!
On a personal level, what books do you enjoy reading?
Honestly, I like to read everything from chick-lit to biographies. A story that draws me in and teaches me something I didn’t know before is always worth my time. With access to so many amazing titles, I’m afraid my to-be-read list extends into the next 10 years!
If you were attending a slumber party with three other people who were either authors or characters from books, who would you want them to be and what would be your topic (s) of conversation?
I would want any of the leading ladies from a Jane Austen book to be there. I would love to discuss what love and romance looked like during that era. I think talking with Jane Austen herself would be equally as fascinating!
If you were to jump in a time capsule and land 200 years into the future, what do you envision the publishing world to have evolved into?
Interesting question! Perhaps everything would be digital, and everyone would have an e-reader implanted into their head, which would automatically download the book’s info into their long-term memory. Or maybe robots will have replaced publicists!
What do you do in your free time, for fun or to relax?
Since I live in Colorado, I like to take advantage of the close proximity of the ski resorts! I’m currently training to run my second half-marathon, catching up on season 5 of LOST, and doing some freelance magazine writing.
A special thanks to Ashley, for taking time out of her busy schedule to answer our questions!
Be sure and visit WaterBrook Multnomah for some great books and check back here next week when we welcome the weekend with one of Ashley's authors, C.D. Baker, author of 40 Loaves.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
The Male Factor by Shaunti Feldhahn
This book was provided by WaterBrook Multnomah. You can learn more about this book at Random House.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
The Great Grammar Book by Marsha Srameck
Unless you are an editor, proof reader or teacher, the thought of reading a book on grammar will make you say, “ugh”. The Great Grammar Book by Marsha Srameck will surprise you. It’s a fresh breath of grammar air. In the beginning, there is a Diagnostic Test that will show you where your weak areas are. Then she deftly covers grammar rules in a fun and witty way that will help you remember them. Srameck also provides extensive writing exercises to help you overcome your problem areas (I’m still working on mine). The Great Grammar Book is a great reference to keep on hand for any student, blogger, writer or anyone who wants to improve their written words. Five of five stars.
This book was provided by the author and will not be given away. I need all the help I can get.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Guest Post by Sally B. Watkins - Change Your Mindset, Not Your Man
CHANGE YOUR MINDSET NOT YOUR MAN
Learn to Love What’s Right Instead of Trying to Fix What’s Wrong(Adams Media 2009)
Many women are disappointed, frustrated, and despairing about their relationships with men. Growing up with Sleeping Beauty, Barbies and romance novels, we don’t realize how the happily-ever-after myth contributes to our relationship misery and failures. My book is the message I needed as a young woman-- that there is no substitute for growing a self and creating a full passionate life, that a man can’t possibly be your fulfillment. It’s hard on the guys when we women want what they have not been socialized to provide. They’re prepared to do the heavy lifting and make money but when we ask them to be sensitive and attuned to our many emotional needs it naturally makes them defensive and angry and they often conclude that there isn’t any way to please us. The conflict comes from trying to get happiness, validation and love from your partner when the only one you can change is yourself! My book spells out exactly what it takes to find contentment with your normally flawed and imperfect guy the way he is. Complaining and even couples counseling can be disastrous if fixing him is the goal. Your thoughts and stories may be helping or hurting you. I show you what it takes to lead by example when you are the one with more relationship skills and needs and have been socialized for relating. Everything from the best therapies, what I’ve gained from my own life, and what my courageous and beautiful clients have taught me is here. Finding your authentic self and the power to accept the things you can’t change will make you a more confident person and a truly loving partner.
TIPS
FIND CONTENTMENT WITH YOUR NORMALLY FLAWED MAN AS HE IS
1. He doesn’t have to change for you to be happy.
Expectations of romantic love since girlhood have fueled our disappointment with men. We have been socialized to believe in and want a deep connection with a soul mate. Many men were taught to be tough, ignore their feelings, and channel energy into work, so it’s not their fault that they aren’t as attuned to us and as affectionate as we want. It’s natural for the rush of excitement and chemical attraction to wear off after the honeymoon. All relationships take work. It’s not like the movies where finding the right one is the only requirement. Believing that your happiness depends on him and his behavior makes you a victim instead of an empowered woman.
2. All attempts to fix him can make it worse.
I suggest a reminder note “let him be as he is” to help you stop the tugging and pouting that we all do to get more attention since it’s likely to make things worse. Men are highly sensitive to criticism and often tune out when they feel attacked. Couples counseling works if both partners commit to change but too often it’s the woman enlisting the help of the therapist to make him be the way she wants. If a man succumbs to his partner’s demands and lets her control him, she may lose respect for him, so it’s a good thing if he is able to maintain his sense of himself.
3. What you believe and say is powerful.
It’s not a secret that how you think about your relationship and what stories you tell about your partner will affect your attitude and your feelings and emphasize those qualities you focus on. We know that our beliefs influence our feelings and in turn our behavior. Learning to recognize your thought patterns will help you have more choices rather than function automatically.. Testing your partner’s is something all of us have done. For example, tell him it’s okay to go fishing with his buddies and leave us to handle the garage sale and then make him wrong for not choosing us. We think these test measure his love for us but they really don’t.
4. Star in your own happy life.
Men are more attracted to women when they are happy and fulfilled and seem to tune out when they are a rain cloud of negativity. This explains why when women are blue and need something from their guy he may decide to work late or spend time in the garage. When women star in their own life and make their needs more important often men get a charge from the energy she is radiating. When you value yourself he may see you the same way and be more interested in pleasing you. You will be less like a mother complaining and pointing out his problems and more like an exciting woman who gets what she wants.
5. Learn to rely on your own self support.
Men may become worn down by too much emotionally laden information coming at them on a regular basis. Some men view problems as complaints about them or your life with them and tune out. As mature women we must grow an internal resilient self to weather some of life’s stressors and not depend on our guy for everything. Learning how to support and soothe yourself makes you less needy. Not being super sensitive and taking things personally is a great way to head off hurts. Journaling, music, or exercise helps work through issues and feelings. Being in nature or with pets or treating yourself to physical comforts are other ways to sustain yourself through troubling situations.
6. Help him be more relational.
Accept that his being attuned to your feelings and needs does not come naturally to him. It’s a mistake to insist that he must figure these things out on his own for them to mean something. Prepare him for an emotional conversation by telling him what you need, e.g., I just want you to listen to me; I don’t need advice or a solution. Remind him with posted notes, coupons, and pictures hinting for what you want in the way of gifts or special events. Ask directly for things like a foot or neck rub, taking over for dinner or the kids’ homework when you need help. Avoid pouting and other drama as a way to get his attention.
BIOGRAPHY
Sally B. Watkins M.S.W., LCSW
I grew up in a Pennsylvania household with violence and deprivation. The happily-ever-after story was one I clung to in the unheated attic of my childhood room where sleep came fitfully to the sounds of my parent’s battles. I was a writer even then and imagined in poetry my prince just like the one in Cinderella. Like many women I went through much of my early adulthood searching for that perfect someone to love and care for me.
Self help books, therapy, and groups helped me find that person that I am today. I graduated from the University of Maryland at Baltimore with a master’s degree in social work and before that with a bachelor’s degree in education from Carnegie Mellon University. In addition to my twenty year psychotherapy practice I continued to be a writer-- grant writing, personal journals, short stories, essays and writing classes. My published work includes magazine articles and a regular column for a local newspaper. This is my first book, CHANGE YOUR MINDSET NOT YOUR MAN.
I now live in El Dorado Hills, California with my husband Warren. My two sons are grown. I enjoy cooking healthy food, working out, hiking, playing tennis, reading, and sailing in the Pacific Northwest.
Visit me at http://www.sallywatkins.net/ or http://healingwords.net/
(Check back the beginning of February for my review of Sally's book.)
Monday, January 11, 2010
How to Lower Your Cholesterol with French Gourmet Food by Alain Braux
Friday, January 8, 2010
Welcome to the Weekend With..... Brenda Youngerman
This week we welcome the weekend with author, Brenda Youngerman. Not too long age I reviewed her thought provoking and moving book, Sorrowed Souls.
First tell us a little about you-
Born and raised in Southern California. I was the youngest child in a very large family. Grew up in a broken home and always felt like an outsider looking in. I spent hours observing others.
When did you first start writing and did you always want to be an author?
I guess I started writing in High School – wrote short stories. Then I kept journals all the way through college. I didn’t really know I wanted to be a writer until it actually happened and then it became the most natural thing, as if it was supposed to be that way all along.
What is the most challenging aspect of writing? Most rewarding?
The most challenging aspect of writing is being able to get a story across without it being ‘predictable’ and by being true to the characters.
The most rewarding aspect of writing is to have a reader tell me that they were moved by a character, or that they could see a similarity in their own life to one of the characters in my novel.
Where did you get the idea for Sorrowed Souls?
Sorrowed Souls was originally supposed to be an expose on homelessness in our country, but then when everything came tumbling down around us in 2008 and the newspapers were filled with different stories of homelessness it didn’t seem to be a prevalent way to write a novel. Ironically today the headlines were that homelessness was up - go figure!
How much research did you do for your book and how much ended up in the finished product?
I actually immersed myself within the homeless community – something I am still very much a part of today – and I would have to say that the finished product reflects my own personal feelings about the homeless community. I truly believe that they are the invisible layer of society – one that the government – any government – likes to hide whenever a dignitary comes to visit. There are simply not enough resources to deal with this ongoing problem. As long as there is poverty, drug abuse, domestic abuse and alcoholism within a society, there will continue to be a layer that will be homeless.
How long, on average, does it take to write a book?
3 months in my head, 6 months on paper, 3 months to edit.
Which character do you feel the closest connection with?
That question has to be the most difficult question you have asked. This book was actually supposed to be about Bryan’s quest to find the true meaning of self, but it actually turned out to be about Gus. The truth about which character I fell in love with is Amy. True everything she went through she still came out at the end as a loving mother and wife, even though she had absolutely no role model to rely on. She did it all based upon what she would have liked to have had. If that isn’t the closest thing to a modern day fairy tale, I don’t know what is.
What makes your characters so vulnerable yet strong? Can you describe what inspired the different characters?
Hmmm, that is a difficult one, as well. Amy/Amber is probably inspired by my own definition of a wife/mother. Not to say that I was anything like her – I was divorced after six years of marriage and then raised my kids alone, but she is certainly what I would have like to have given my kids. Gus – well, Gus is just one of those guys that was born into a family with absolutely everything – but he actually has nothing. And how many of us look at the wealthy people around us and think that they have the world at their disposal? The bottom line here is that even the wealthy have to put their pants on one leg at a time and go to the bathroom the same way we do. They still put their heads down on a pillow at night and have to justify their existence every day. And as I said before, this book was originally supposed to be about Bryan, the misunderstood boss who was the tyrant, but it just didn’t turn out that way as the characters developed around him. I’m not really sure that his character is based upon anyone other than as a reaction to the other characters.
What do you do when characters stop talking to you when writing?
I sit back and wait.
Sorrowed Souls had a unique perspective of life on the streets and the people who live there. Does the environment help or hinder your writing/creativity?
In this particular case it actually hindered the writing process. I really felt like I didn’t want to do an injustice to the people I had met along my journey. They had allowed me into their lives without knowledge of my intentions. However, that being said, my research ended very early into my life on the streets. I am still humbled every time I see my friends.
When a new book comes out, are you nervous about how readers will react to it?
Definitely!
What do you feel is the most important thing that a first-time author should know?
You aren’t going to make any money! There are literally thousands of books published every year and only one gets to the top of the New York Times Bestseller list. If you aren’t writing a book for yourself, you are writing for the wrong reason.
What do you hope for your writing career in the next few years? Any goals that you have yet to obtain that you have set for yourself?
My goal as an author is to publish a new novel every year. So far I have been able to do that. I write “Fiction with a Purpose.” Every book I write has a message that hopefully will take hold somewhere, because I honestly do believe that one person can make a difference. I already have the next three novels rolling around in my head.
Who are your favorite authors?
Number one is definitely John Sandford, with Catherine Coulter as a close second.
You can influence any one thing in the entire history, the present or the future of the world (what has occurred, how something works, etc.). What would you choose to change and why?
First, I wish I had more than one, but . . . I would make it so that senseless, hateful crimes did not go unpunished when children were involved. They do not ask to be born, and they do not choose their parents.
If you could spend the day with one person (someone in history, a favorite author, a public figure, a character in a book, etc.), who would you choose and why?
I have never been asked this question, and I have to admit it took me a while to come up with an answer….Mary Todd Lincoln. First, I have a degree in history and that period of time is my favorite. Second because she had to endure an awful lot to have lost a child and to have been first lady and lost her husband. I just think that I could learn a lot from that woman.
Thanks for joining us today, Brenda. I look forward to reading your next book.
To learn more about Brenda and her work, check out her website.
Born and raised in Southern California. I was the youngest child in a very large family. Grew up in a broken home and always felt like an outsider looking in. I spent hours observing others.
When did you first start writing and did you always want to be an author?
I guess I started writing in High School – wrote short stories. Then I kept journals all the way through college. I didn’t really know I wanted to be a writer until it actually happened and then it became the most natural thing, as if it was supposed to be that way all along.
What is the most challenging aspect of writing? Most rewarding?
The most challenging aspect of writing is being able to get a story across without it being ‘predictable’ and by being true to the characters.
The most rewarding aspect of writing is to have a reader tell me that they were moved by a character, or that they could see a similarity in their own life to one of the characters in my novel.
Where did you get the idea for Sorrowed Souls?
Sorrowed Souls was originally supposed to be an expose on homelessness in our country, but then when everything came tumbling down around us in 2008 and the newspapers were filled with different stories of homelessness it didn’t seem to be a prevalent way to write a novel. Ironically today the headlines were that homelessness was up - go figure!
How much research did you do for your book and how much ended up in the finished product?
I actually immersed myself within the homeless community – something I am still very much a part of today – and I would have to say that the finished product reflects my own personal feelings about the homeless community. I truly believe that they are the invisible layer of society – one that the government – any government – likes to hide whenever a dignitary comes to visit. There are simply not enough resources to deal with this ongoing problem. As long as there is poverty, drug abuse, domestic abuse and alcoholism within a society, there will continue to be a layer that will be homeless.
How long, on average, does it take to write a book?
3 months in my head, 6 months on paper, 3 months to edit.
Which character do you feel the closest connection with?
That question has to be the most difficult question you have asked. This book was actually supposed to be about Bryan’s quest to find the true meaning of self, but it actually turned out to be about Gus. The truth about which character I fell in love with is Amy. True everything she went through she still came out at the end as a loving mother and wife, even though she had absolutely no role model to rely on. She did it all based upon what she would have liked to have had. If that isn’t the closest thing to a modern day fairy tale, I don’t know what is.
What makes your characters so vulnerable yet strong? Can you describe what inspired the different characters?
Hmmm, that is a difficult one, as well. Amy/Amber is probably inspired by my own definition of a wife/mother. Not to say that I was anything like her – I was divorced after six years of marriage and then raised my kids alone, but she is certainly what I would have like to have given my kids. Gus – well, Gus is just one of those guys that was born into a family with absolutely everything – but he actually has nothing. And how many of us look at the wealthy people around us and think that they have the world at their disposal? The bottom line here is that even the wealthy have to put their pants on one leg at a time and go to the bathroom the same way we do. They still put their heads down on a pillow at night and have to justify their existence every day. And as I said before, this book was originally supposed to be about Bryan, the misunderstood boss who was the tyrant, but it just didn’t turn out that way as the characters developed around him. I’m not really sure that his character is based upon anyone other than as a reaction to the other characters.
What do you do when characters stop talking to you when writing?
I sit back and wait.
Sorrowed Souls had a unique perspective of life on the streets and the people who live there. Does the environment help or hinder your writing/creativity?
In this particular case it actually hindered the writing process. I really felt like I didn’t want to do an injustice to the people I had met along my journey. They had allowed me into their lives without knowledge of my intentions. However, that being said, my research ended very early into my life on the streets. I am still humbled every time I see my friends.
When a new book comes out, are you nervous about how readers will react to it?
Definitely!
What do you feel is the most important thing that a first-time author should know?
You aren’t going to make any money! There are literally thousands of books published every year and only one gets to the top of the New York Times Bestseller list. If you aren’t writing a book for yourself, you are writing for the wrong reason.
What do you hope for your writing career in the next few years? Any goals that you have yet to obtain that you have set for yourself?
My goal as an author is to publish a new novel every year. So far I have been able to do that. I write “Fiction with a Purpose.” Every book I write has a message that hopefully will take hold somewhere, because I honestly do believe that one person can make a difference. I already have the next three novels rolling around in my head.
Who are your favorite authors?
Number one is definitely John Sandford, with Catherine Coulter as a close second.
You can influence any one thing in the entire history, the present or the future of the world (what has occurred, how something works, etc.). What would you choose to change and why?
First, I wish I had more than one, but . . . I would make it so that senseless, hateful crimes did not go unpunished when children were involved. They do not ask to be born, and they do not choose their parents.
If you could spend the day with one person (someone in history, a favorite author, a public figure, a character in a book, etc.), who would you choose and why?
I have never been asked this question, and I have to admit it took me a while to come up with an answer….Mary Todd Lincoln. First, I have a degree in history and that period of time is my favorite. Second because she had to endure an awful lot to have lost a child and to have been first lady and lost her husband. I just think that I could learn a lot from that woman.
Thanks for joining us today, Brenda. I look forward to reading your next book.
To learn more about Brenda and her work, check out her website.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
The One Day Way by Chantel Hobbs
(photo taken from: http://www.titletrakk.com/author-interviews/chantel-hobbs-interview.htm)
Leave a comment and share what is it you will start today. For me, I started writing more today. A copy of this book will be sent to one lucky commenter.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Triangle of Deception by Haggai Carmon
This book was provided by the author.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Where The Heart Was by Glenn Boyer
Glenn Boyer’s Where the Heart Was follows Depression Era youth, Bennie Todd as he grows into a man. But it is more than a coming of age story of this Chicago youth. It is a journey through history. This isn’t the history you might be bored by in school books. Boyer’s history lesson is more personal, more heartfelt, and transports the reader through time, from the America’s fledgling days as a Republic from the Revolution where it began through the Civil War and Depression of the 1930’s. Through cameos, Boyer reveals historical characters so real you feel as if you are back in their time listening to them speak. 4.5 out of five stars.
This book was provided by the author.
Monday, January 4, 2010
Awards I Have Received
I have to give J Kaye's Book Blog credit for inspiring me to create this page. It is an honor to receive these recognitions from our fellow bloggers. To each of the wonderful bloggers who bestowed these on this little blog, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your support means the world to me!!
Primal by Mark Batterson
This book was provided by WaterBrook Multnomah. You can learn more about this book at Random House.
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Awards Created
There are so many amazing bloggers out there that deserve recognition for their work. I tried to create a few new ones to honor them (and my love of dragons). Please use them to share some blogger love! You can click on the link below the picture to see who these awards were first sent out to and what their rules are.
Reviews and Ratings
REVIEW POLICIES:
I am a freelance writer and reviewer. I review because I love to read. I am currently accepting titles for review. Here are a few things to note:
** I cannot promise a rave review, but I will promise to post an honest one.
** Once I post a review on this blog, I will try to post it in other locations as I have time, but can not promise.
** I try to post a review within 60 days of receiving the book. If I am unable to do this, I will notify the author.
** If you, the author, need the review to post at a certain time, please include that information with your request.
** I read all types of books and am open to most genres, if you have a question as to whether I will review a particular book, please email me.
** I do not accept e-books or PDF's for review. (However I may occasionally post a review of a book I have purchased in that format.)
** ARC's, Galley's and solicited books get first priority and then books I have purchased, won or been given as a gift, etc.
** Any or all of my reviews may contain teasers or spoilers. The beginning of the review will note if that is the case.
** I always make the title of the post a link to the authors website or a site where additional information on the book may be found. On occasion this is a site where the book may be purchased such as Amazon, however, I receive no compensation from these sites and only provide additional links as a convenience to my readers not the authors or publishers.
Disclaimer: Due to the FTC ruling (which BTW, is open to the question of violating our constitutional rights), let it be known that I do not receive compensation for any books I review. When an author or publisher sends me a book, it is not compensation, it is an exchange for my time(reading the book). It has no bearing on how I review the book. My reviews are simply my opinions, good or bad. A positive review is in no way to be construed as an endorsement of the book on my part. Again, it is merely my expression of an opinion, should anyone choose to buy the book based on that opinion, they do so of their own accord and with the understanding there is no guarantee made as to whether they will hold the same opinion as myself. I do not sell the book after it has been read. Some are given away and some I keep, because I enjoyed them enough to want to read them again. All books received by an author have been noted as such. If there is no notation at the end of the post then the book was purchased or a gift.
If you have any questions, please contact me at cartermartina@rocketmail.com.
All inquiries are welcome and I look forward to hearing from you.
RATINGS:
I rate books from one to five as follows:
1 - Mind-numbing.....I did not like this book and would not recommend it.
2 - Okay...... it was not my cup of tea but someone somewhere may appreciate it.
3 - I liked it, I liked it not..... There were some great points and some part of it I really liked but others left me wanting. Non-fiction: It was consistent, but I may not have found it all that helpful.
4 - You like me, you really do......I liked it and found it to be an easy read. Non-fiction: It accomplished all it's goals and was helpful.
5 - me amour..... I may have to stalk it, bronze it, sleep with it beneath my pillow, I loved it so much! I can't say enough good things about it!!
I am a freelance writer and reviewer. I review because I love to read. I am currently accepting titles for review. Here are a few things to note:
** I cannot promise a rave review, but I will promise to post an honest one.
** Once I post a review on this blog, I will try to post it in other locations as I have time, but can not promise.
** I try to post a review within 60 days of receiving the book. If I am unable to do this, I will notify the author.
** If you, the author, need the review to post at a certain time, please include that information with your request.
** I read all types of books and am open to most genres, if you have a question as to whether I will review a particular book, please email me.
** I do not accept e-books or PDF's for review. (However I may occasionally post a review of a book I have purchased in that format.)
** ARC's, Galley's and solicited books get first priority and then books I have purchased, won or been given as a gift, etc.
** Any or all of my reviews may contain teasers or spoilers. The beginning of the review will note if that is the case.
** I always make the title of the post a link to the authors website or a site where additional information on the book may be found. On occasion this is a site where the book may be purchased such as Amazon, however, I receive no compensation from these sites and only provide additional links as a convenience to my readers not the authors or publishers.
Disclaimer: Due to the FTC ruling (which BTW, is open to the question of violating our constitutional rights), let it be known that I do not receive compensation for any books I review. When an author or publisher sends me a book, it is not compensation, it is an exchange for my time(reading the book). It has no bearing on how I review the book. My reviews are simply my opinions, good or bad. A positive review is in no way to be construed as an endorsement of the book on my part. Again, it is merely my expression of an opinion, should anyone choose to buy the book based on that opinion, they do so of their own accord and with the understanding there is no guarantee made as to whether they will hold the same opinion as myself. I do not sell the book after it has been read. Some are given away and some I keep, because I enjoyed them enough to want to read them again. All books received by an author have been noted as such. If there is no notation at the end of the post then the book was purchased or a gift.
If you have any questions, please contact me at cartermartina@rocketmail.com.
All inquiries are welcome and I look forward to hearing from you.
RATINGS:
I rate books from one to five as follows:
1 - Mind-numbing.....I did not like this book and would not recommend it.
2 - Okay...... it was not my cup of tea but someone somewhere may appreciate it.
3 - I liked it, I liked it not..... There were some great points and some part of it I really liked but others left me wanting. Non-fiction: It was consistent, but I may not have found it all that helpful.
4 - You like me, you really do......I liked it and found it to be an easy read. Non-fiction: It accomplished all it's goals and was helpful.
5 - me amour..... I may have to stalk it, bronze it, sleep with it beneath my pillow, I loved it so much! I can't say enough good things about it!!
Friday, January 1, 2010
Welcome to the Weekend and the New Year With.... C. P. Stewart
Happy New Year!!!!
Welcome to 2010!!
Only a few weeks ago, last year, I had the privilege to read and review a wonderful book called Through the Triangle by C. P Stewart. Having exchanged several emails with the author, I can tell you he is not only a gifted writer but a wonderful person. It was great finding out we have many of the same taste in authors. He is working on the sequel to Through the Triangle. Be sure to check out his new blog for updates on his writing progress.
First tell us a little about you- (brief bio- a sentence or two)
I am a retired high school physics (and formerly chemistry) teacher, but I continue to teach physics classes/labs at the university level when they need help. What can I say, I love to teach!
When did you first start writing and did you always want to be an author?
I wrote the first words of Through the Triangle five years ago, worked on it sporadically for four years, and then spent a year editing and polishing (again, sporadically). The thought of writing a book was always pushed into the background while I was teaching full time, but is now possible.
What is the most challenging aspect of writing? Most rewarding?
For me, the most challenging aspect has been finding the time to write in a more consistent manner … and then there is the formidable task of marketing.
The most rewarding aspect has definitely been the overwhelming positive response from those who have read the book. It is greatly appreciated and humbling.
Where did you get the idea for Through the Triangle and have you also been fascinated by mystical place?
The premise for Through the Triangle came to me decades ago, but I kept shoving it behind what was needed at the moment or relatively short-term goals. I have always been fascinated by places of mystery, especially the various areas of unexplained disappearances, including the Bermuda Triangle. I was hooked from the first time I read about it, and even more so when I learned that other like areas exist. I have an extreme fondness for anything labeled “unexplained.”
How much research did you do for your book and how much ended up in the finished product?
I have always been captivated by the possibility of time travel, although theories vary as to whether such a thing can happen. Physicists agree with Einstein’s General Theory of Relativity that gravity bends spacetime (3 dimensions of space moving in one-dimension of time) – the greater the gravity, the greater spacetime is warped. From there, things get a little deep, but with the latest theory (M-Theory that proposes eleven dimensions at every point in space … and that electromagnetism and gravity exist as strings simultaneously at these points), it follows that the intense electromagnetic surges in the Bermuda Triangle are probably accompanied by intense gravitational surges … possibly enough to momentarily bend the future back to the present, allowing our characters to seamlessly move into the future time. Now that your eyes have glazed over and you have probably assumed a fetal position in the most distant corner, I tried to stay away from such detailed explanations. Jake and the others more or less speculate on what might have happened based on their previous thoughts and conjectures.
How do you keep track of your world building?
I jotted ideas in a separate file and then put them into, what I considered, a logical chronology. I had to refer to the file quite often as the story progressed to make sure I didn’t say something contradictory.
How long, on average, does it take to write a book?
How long it takes is directly proportional to the number of distractions in one’s life. A book can be completed in a few months if the author can write consistently, say a couple of hours each day. Actually, that is the best way, but I can only write when I find the time and am not pressed to be doing something else. Since I have only written one book, and it took a couple of years, then I would have to say that is my average. I am, however, trying to write a sequel faster with my available time.
Which character in this book most resembles you?
Probably Jake, only because of his appreciation of new things, searching for the good in everyone until proven wrong, and his ability to remember bits and pieces of things he had heard or read, but not all the facts.
If your book had a theme song what would it be?
Possibly the theme from “The Twilight Zone” television series. If they made it back to their normal time, then it could have been “Welcome Back” from the Welcome Back Kotter tv sitcom – moot point.
As your mutated humanoid species has some characteristics in common with vampire legends, I have to ask if you like vampires and if that influenced those characters at all.
I am interested in the legends of vampires, yeti, sasquatch, warlocks, werewolves, and shape-shifters in general. In fact I have put a book on hold that included a werewolf in order to start a sequel to Through the Triangle. However, to answer your question, I didn’t base the Azujos (pronounced a – zu – hose) on vampires, just a mental picture of what might develop under the right circumstances.
Given your story covers the world as we know it ending and a distant future world, if you lived in this story, which time would you want to live in? Stuck in the past or one of the characters who went through the wormhole?
Interesting question … I hadn’t thought of choosing. I am satisfied being where I am and living in this time. However, there are times when I picture where we as a nation are heading, and suddenly shifting to a fresh start has a certain, although bizarre, appeal. Being suddenly thrust into the far future holds an attraction because it would be an unimaginable adventure, but would be accompanied by an unfathomable sense of loss because everything and everyone you knew is gone forever.
Why did you choose the publishing route you chose and what has been the best and worst aspects of that process for you?
Before my manuscript was ready, I tried shopping it around to a dozen or so agents and publishers, without success. Actually, I am thankful nobody picked it up, because it needed to be polished a few more times. I even had a request for three chapters from one of the premier literary agents, but was told it was not what they were looking for. To me, it seemed that sending the requested query letter was a game of trying to guess what the intended recipient was looking for in format and content – like a silly game. I then read about how difficult it is to break into the publishing world without previous writing credentials because in today’s unsure economy, it is very unlikely a publishing entity would take a chance on anything but a sure-thing. Consider also that there were over 300,000 new books published in 2008 alone, and it becomes obvious that competition to get someone’s attention is fierce. The article recommended self-publishing (and was not an ad for a self-publishing company). By going the route I did, the book is out there and available for those that want to read it and I am not still playing games. In addition, I get to maintain all my rights in case some agent or traditional publisher gets interested. Either way of publishing, the marketing tasks fall on the author’s shoulders, and they are difficult. The worst part of self-publishing is paying for everything, whereas some of the costs would probably be absorbed by a traditional publisher.
Do you have any other stories and yet to be published novels, when can we expect your next book?
As I mentioned earlier, I had a good start on a novel dealing with a northern PA lawman trying to solve a murder while dealing with an early winter storm and a werewolf, but put that aside to write a sequel to Through the Triangle. I also have a third novel in the series outlined and ready to start on. All I can say about the timeframe is that I hope to complete the second book as soon as I possibly can. If given the time (or time stolen from other things), maybe within a year.
Who are your favorite authors?
I like authors that make me think and are not predictable. I can’t say I have any one favorite author, but like certain books by various authors. For instance, I enjoyed Ice Hunt by James Rollins, some Clive Cussler novels like Raise the Titanic, Darkfall by Dean Koontz, and Second Wind by Dick Francis. I have also enjoyed some of the Stone Barrington novels by Stuart Woods and Stephen King’s Christine (being a car-nut, I can appreciate the concept of a ’58 Plymouth with an attitude). Even some of these I found to be too action-packed; I prefer a realistically paced story without unrealistic perils and subsequent unrealistic heroic acts. I love a believable story that keeps you guessing and is therefore a “page-turner.”
What three authors/writers/characters would you take on a deep-sea fishing cruise and what would you do?
Maybe Stephen King because of the unique way his mind works, Stephen Hawking because of his immense intelligence and insights into the cosmos, and Clive Cussler so we could talk cars, since he has a fairly extensive collection. Don’t worry, we would just talk … I wouldn’t think of using any of them for bait.
You can influence any one thing in the entire history, the present or the future of the world (what has occurred, how something works, etc.). What would you choose to change and why?
Since there is no way of changing the inhabitants of this planet’s tolerance of each other, I would have to say the internal combustion engine with its noise, heat, pollution, and thirst for our natural resources. Once it was invented, very few people looked outside the box for a better propulsion method. Don’t get me wrong, I like the rumble of a hemi engine and throbbing exhaust as well as the next guy (maybe even more so, having raced stock cars a few years back), but I firmly believe we missed the boat on a more viable alternative and are just now beginning to scratch at the walls of the box.
If you could spend the day with one person (someone in history, a favorite author, a public figure, a character in a book, etc.), who would you choose and why?
Jesus because of how much I could learn from Him and to just be in His company.
Because I would love to see your book turned into a film, I have to ask, who would you like to see cast in the various roles?
Tough one. Maybe Dean Cain, Kyle Chandler, or Tim McGraw as Jake; although somewhat older than the character, maybe Luke Perry as Manny; possibly Janine Turner as Ronni; Sam Elliot, with his deep voice as Mack; hmmm, and maybe Sean Connery as Scotty, although he would have to relearn speaking in a thick brogue.
Finally, if they were to make a movie about your life, what would it be called and who would you want to play you?
I think its title would be something like, “A Comedy of Errors” and although I would prefer someone young, dashing, and handsome, it would probably be a better fit with Barry Bostwick, although Richard Gere has the hair thing going for him.
A special thanks to C. P. Stewart for taking the time to answer my questions and help us start off the new year on a wonderful note. Make sure you check out his book Through the Triangle and his blog.
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