Jim Howell, Copper Eyes

Tell Me a Story - crime writer.

They say write about what you know. I know I do it when I write, as do many more authors, and so it seems does Captain Jim Howell.

Jim Howell pursued offender for 33 years at Dallas County Sheriff's Department. However, Jim Howell is also a writer with two novels under his belt; one of them a crime novel set right there in the Sheriff's Department.

Jim Howell controlled the agency's criminal investigations department until retiring to spend more time with his family, which also allows him time to write more novels.


Howell's second book is called Copper Eyes, about a Dallas County sheriff's detective who suspects her sergeant is a serial killer.

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. . We wish you well, Jim.

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Jk Rowling sued for plagiarism

Tell Me A Story - comment.

When I saw the headline JK Rowling sued for plagiarism, my first thought was 'Not another Stephenie Meyer'. I felt cheated that yet one more top-paid author had written over someone else's work.

It's hard enough for me coming to terms with celebrities jumping on the bandwagon and ousting REAL writers, without highly-paid authors messing about - and JK Rowling is the most highly paid of them all.

The worst of it is, 5% of authors cream off 95% earnings (if you think all writers are dripping with money - think again). So if one of the top-paid writers is cheating.....

Most of us write books and stories because we love writing - but we get zilch returns - just a drop of goodwill from readers every now and then.

However, having read the article - and providing the information is correct, I feel there is hardly a case to answer.

Take a look at JK Rowling sued for plagiarism, and tell me what you think.... Not that I go along with JK Rowling having such a large slice of the ever-decreasing cake, but I hate for the image of writers to be tarnished.

*** JK Rowling, JK Rowling, JK Rowling ***

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Stuart Neville, The Twelve

Tell Me a Story - technology.


I’ve always advised new writers to keep a notebook handy – ideas are ephemeral; they develop a nasty habit of slipping from us if we don’t jot them down immediately.

However, technology changes things. As much as I dislike change for the sake of change, I admit to tentatively embracing it. I don’t want to get left behind. Lately, I’ve been experimenting with an Olympus digital voice recorder to record those little ideas that seem to jump into my head at inconvenient moments.

It seems I’m not the only one to embrace technology. Author, Stuart Neville, has discovered his own way of taking notes.


The Twelve, by Armagh writer, Stuart Neville, first saw light of day life on the screen of his mobile phone, before ending up with approval from none other than novelist James Ellroy.

Ellroy, author of LA Confidential and American Tabloid, said that Stuart Neville's thriller was, "The best first novel I have read in years".

"The book started life on my mobile phone," Stuart Neville explained. "I literally got up out of bed with this idea in my head for a novel and the first thing I put my hand on was my PDA phone. I started writing it digitally there and then on the mobile screen because it was handy, and then later copied it onto my computer."

So there you are. I always knew mobile phones were useful for something…. most people are welded to them for no good reason…. but as a notebook…. great!

*** Stuart Neville, Stuart Neville, Stuart Neville ***

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Creative writing - dialogue

Tell Me a Story - Dialogue.

AJ, can you help me? My dialogue never seems ‘real’. Have you any tips you can share?

Hi, Pauline. You're right to pay attention to it because dialogue is VERY important. Your novel needs to contain around 50% - 60% dialogue to keep it moving along.

I know it sounds trite, but try listening to the way people talk. Study the selection of words, and the tempo used. People don’t speak in long sentences, so make sure you write your dialogue in short, sharp sentences.

As you listen, decide which of those spoken words are actually suitable for your writing. In real life, when we meet someone, we greet each other with worn-out phrases, asking how they are, etc. This is monotonous stuff.
Readers are intelligent and understand that small talk occurs – they simply aren’t interested. They want to get to the substance of the conversation without everyday fluff. Remove the minutiae; give the readers what they want.

You also need to append dialogue with body language. Without body language, readers can’t always appreciate the value of words. Readers need to see the protagonists in their mind's eye as they talk - do they grimace, smile, frown? Body language can completely alter the meaning of words.

Adding body language can also alter the pacing of the work. There are times when brisk dialogue is necessary, and times when we want to slow it down. Describing body language can slow it quite subtly without altering the substance.

One thing I must point out. Be VERY careful if your character has a dialect. Writing in heavy dialect can become distracting and time-consuming, and most readers tire of it quickly - one of the rare times when you should TELL, not SHOW.

Hope this helps a little, Pauline – and good luck.

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• Romantic Suspense

The Dublin Literary Award

Tell Me a Story - comment.

So first-time writers can get recognized after all! It's about time. There is hope for us !

Boston-born writer, Michael Thomas has been bestowed the Dublin Literary Award for his debut novel, 'Man Gone Down'.


The prize is among the literary world's most rewarding, with a grant of $140,000 - pretty incredible.





Michael Thomas overcame a solid consortium of writers in the final list that even included Junot Diaz' Pulitzer Prize winning 'The Brief and Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao'.

Well done, Michael. Let's hope there is more to come from you. You give all new writers hope.

*** Michael Thomas, Michael Thomas, Michael Thomas ***

*** Dublin Literary Award, Dublin Literary Award, Dublin Literary Award ***

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Freedom of speech and author, Liu Xiaobo

Tell Me a Story - Opinion.

Wow! This makes me feel humble. I might spout off every now and then, I might moan about things I don’t agree with, but would I do it if there were a threat of a jail sentence hanging over me for doing it?

Freedom of speech.

We in the Western world, forget just how lucky we are. We forget that freedom of speech has to be fought for. We forget that most people in the world are afraid of mouthing their opinions in case of state retribution… To wit: -

Even though his jail sentence has just been completed, the Chinese writer, Liu Xiaobo, remains in custody in Beijing, as the establishment maintains he is still in violation of China’s criminal law.

Mr Liu, 53, was detained by police on December 8, one day before the publication of the Charter ‘08 document that he co-authored with more than 300 fellow intellectuals who were calling for a new constitution, human rights, elections, freedom of religion and expression and an end to the Communist Party’s hold over the military, courts and government.

“The Public Security Bureau say they must keep investigating his case,” Mr Liu’s lawyer said.

Surely, all they were asking for were basic human-rights, things we take for granted over here?

I suppose it just reinforces how much importance is actually placed on writers. We tend to forget that people actually read our work .... and some might even follow our advice ....

*** Liu Xiaobo, Liu Xiaobo, Liu Xiaobo ***

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Lauren Conrad and L.A. Candy

Tell Me a Story - rant.

One more celebrity has nudged their way into the publishing world.

TV star, Lauren Conrad, has released her first novel, L.A. Candy, and boy does it piss me off.

Celebs and their publishing houses know they’ll make a mint from their work. They already have a ‘face’ - they’re known to millions, so millions will buy.

We writers – the ones who try to avoid daft sentences, the ones who strive to produce sensibly structured work – struggle to get a foot in the door – we can’t get publicity - yet a celeb goes viral as soon as they put pen to paper.

We all know promotion is required to sell books – but how does an unknown author achieve it?

I've tried it all, read various blurbs that guarantee to show us how to achieve notoriety - been there got the ‘T’ shirt - no results.

In a classical Catch 22 situation, publishing houses rarely promote ‘unknown’ authors - only well known authors who don't really need it get a push. Newbies have to make their own way - and if you’re with an independent publishing house – forget it – no budget for you my friend.

How do we achieve celebrity status…… Maybe shooting somebody or robbing a bank would make a difference…… Anyone got a gun....

Just thought I’d let you know it hacks me off – just in case you hadn’t already realised.

*** Lauren Conrad, Lauren Conrad, Lauren Conrad ***

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Stephenie Meyer and MySpace

Tell Me a Story - comment.

Stephenie Meyer, infamous author of the best-selling, vampire romance series, Twilight, announced on her website that she’s kicking her social networking page, MySpace, into touch.

"It was a lot of fun while it lasted, and I really miss the early days when I could hang out with people online," Meyer wrote. "Many of you are hilarious and insightful, and I wish it was easier for me to talk to everyone the way I used to."

Wow! There’s nothing quite like biting the hand that feeds you!

Stephenie Meyer will probably protest that I’m wrong, but I was led to understand that one of the reasons behind her tremendous and unlikely, leap to fame was due to her presence on MySpace. She apparently milked the system by invoking the viral effect that can sometimes come from such public exposure. She used it to promote her work. She found the right buttons to press.

Bully for you, Stephenie, you obviously feel you’re above all that now – after all, when you reach your position, who needs fans.

Well, I’m here to tell you folk, I’M not about to leave FaceBook. If you want to partake of a few words as my FaceBook friend, then feel free. I welcome one and all.

*** Stephenie Meyer, Stephenie Meyer, Stephenie Meyer ***

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Author, Nick Sabatino

Tell Me a Story - comment

If you think you've left it too late to start that novel - you're wrong. It's never too late. Nick Sabatino proves you’re never too old.

If you really want to, you can write and you can succeed, no matter what your age. At age 90, Nick Sabatino has just published his first children’s book.




Those of you living around CENTERVILLE, could be in for a real treat. If you have a few minutes spare between 9 a.m. and noon, Saturday, June 13, take a stroll down to Bill’s Donut Shop, 268 N. Main St.,

Strange location it might be, but Bill’s Donut Shop is about to play host to a local author. If you’d like to support a book signing by author and illustrator Nick Sabatino, then pop along.

Sabatino’s book is called The Tiny Donut with a Big Heart – hence holding his big moment in a donut shop

Nick Sabatino’s children’s book was published in April by PublishAmerica, Baltimore, Md.

Well done Nick. You're an inspiration to us all.

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Sales of romance novels on the increase.

Tell Me a Story - comment.

It seems that inexpensive romance novels are providing succour for many readers struggling with the wheezing economy. Publishers are reporting strong sales in the romance genre even though other categories are in decline.

Harlequin Enterprises, the global giant in romantic fiction, reported sales up 32 percent over the same period last year.

Sales of travel books were down 16 percent; detective/mystery and self-help were each down 17 percent; and adult fiction overall, was increased by 1 percent.

Jennifer Enderlin, associate publisher for St. Martin's Press, said romance is doing so well that the publisher is releasing 32 titles this year (more could be added), in contrast to 26 last year. Romance novels from established authors are experiencing healthy sales, she said.

Enderlin and other publishers are not surprised by the genre's success. "If you really think about it, there is a little romance in virtually every book," said Laurie Parkin, vice president and publisher of Kensington Publishing, which has seen a 5 percent increase in sales. "But especially when business is bad or business is down, people want to escape a little bit."

Well I must say I find that heartening, especially since my novel, Without Reproach, has been classed as a romantic drama. As Parkin says, there’s a little romance in almost every book, which is why I included it in mine. After all, isn’t that what real life is about – finding love interest…

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Marilynne Robinson and the Orange Prize

Tell Me a Story - news

American writer, Marilynne Robinson, has been awarded the 30,000-pound Orange Prize for Fiction, which pays tribute to work by female writers worldwide.


The judges called the Pulitzer-prize winner's latest novel "Home" as "exquisitely crafted."

The novel, which is only Robinson's third book in almost thirty years, tells the story of a prodigal son who returns home after twenty years, seeking a safe haven and hoping to make peace with his past.

"A kind, wise, enriching novel, exquisitely crafted. We were unanimously agreed, it is a profound work of art," said panel chairwoman Fi Glover.

Robinson wrestled with rivals such as first-time novelist, Samantha Harvey, Americans, Ellen Feldman and Samantha Hunt, Irish writer Deirdre Madden and Pakistani-British author Kamila Shamsie to win the 14th Orange prize.

Jonathan Ruppin, of Foyles bookshop, described Robinson as "Simply one of the outstanding prose stylists of recent years."

All I can say is, well done, Marilynne. I can only applaud you. Lets hope it doesn't take quite so long next time...

*** Marilynne-Robinson, Marilynne-Robinson, Marilynne-Robinson, ***

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Website for writers

Tell Me a Story - information.

I'm a member of several online sites. One of the members, (Robin Stanton Web Design/Advertising Agency for Small Businesses) seems to have a good idea for authors.

I have no personal experience of the website she's advocating, but I thought it worthy of passing the information on. Let me know how you go on if you give it a whiz.

Online marketing idea
I have a site: http://www.shopmyattic.com/ and am always on the lookout for new items to sell on there. I would love if anyone would be interested in selling their book (s), ebooks, business books on the site. Your book would be featured for the entire day for sale and I also like to give back - anyone with childrens books, could work something out for each book sold would be donated to a cause for children. Would love to hear any feedback you may have!

Thanks,
Robin

In my opinion, anything that gives struggling writers a legup is worth supporting. Well done Robin. Hope it goes well.

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President Obama and the National Book Festival,

Good news is about to take place in the world of literature.

President Obama and first lady Michelle Obama will play host to approximately seventy authors and lyricists at the annual National Book Festival, which will be maintained on Sept. 26 at the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

The previous first lady, Laura Bush, initiated the festival, in 2001, to advance enduring interest in literacy. The occasion, controlled and subsidised by the Library of Congress, will be free to the public.

I can only hope that good will come from the affair. Kudos to the event. Let there be more, worldwide.

*** National Book Festival, National Book Festival, National Book Festival ***

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Interview with Singer/songwriter, Nick Wilson

Tell Me a story - Interview.

I’d like to introduce you to a singer/songwriter friend of mine, Nick Wilson. He’s a local lad, worthy of global recognition. Nick, perhaps you'd like to tell us a little about yourself.

Hello and thanks, AJ. I’ve been in Spain for nearly 4 years and loved every minute.

Music was new to me when I arrived, but after singing in Bar La Luna in Alcalalí a couple of times, my fledgling musical career took tentative flight and I began performing at fiestas. This helped me to come out of my shell. After being in front of soooo many people, I was ready to take on the world.

I journeyed back to the UK to take part in X factor, but unfortunately didn’t get placed - in fact, I actually stopped singing for over a year because it knocked my confidence so much. With the benefit of hindsight, and after taking part in X factor, I wouldn’t really advise anyone to enter for it. No matter how strong or confident you think you are, it’s a real put-down to be rejected.

I recently performed in panto at the Care-Line Theatre. The show was Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, and I was selected to play leading male as Prince Lancelot. The tights I had to wear were a bit embarrassing but I really enjoyed it. It means I now have acting experience under my belt, which is always a good thing. Now, I’m waiting for the finals of Star Search 2009, Javea, Spain. If I win, I’m hoping to be able to support mum and dad, and hopefully dad will be able to retire.

So, Nick, what compelled you to write your first song?

The first song I wrote was called "Break Up" it was written after my girlfriend and I finished. I was really gutted and I guess writing the song helped me come to terms with it.

Have you always wanted to be a singer/writer?

Always, but never had the confidence to attempt it until recently.

And are you currently working on any projects our readers should watch for release soon?

I am, AJ, I’m taking part in Star Search 2009, Javea. If I win, you’ll hear my 4-track demo live on Bay Radio.

Great. I'm looking forward to that. Your work has already been on radio. How did you feel the day you heard your first song on air?

Wow, it felt surreal to hear my voice on radio. I’m no different to anyone else - I don’t suppose many people enjoy the sound of their own voice – it’s just the same when I watch a video of myself - I cringe.

I know what you mean, Nick. I hated my first radio interview, but authors are expected to do it as part of the publicity. Tell me about your songs. Do you find that you put a little of yourself into your songs or do you create them to be completely different from you?

They’re all based on personal emotional experiences; that’s the only way I can express myself.

So, what about when growing up, did you have a favourite singer?

Yes, it was always Ronan Keating, in my opinion he is a living legend.

And now: who is your favourite singer and what is your favourite genre?

It’s always going to be Ronan. His world is the world I’d like to embrace.

Location and life experience can sprinkle their influence in your creativity. Tell us about where you grew up and a little about where you live now - city? Suburb? Country? Farm? If you could live anywhere you want to live, where would that be?

I grew up in Worcester, and still have family there. I also loved it on the farm in Bristol where my grandparents lived until I was 12. It was like something from a fairytale. I’d feed the animals and play in hay bales; it was amazing – so tranquil. My goal in life is to have sufficient money to have my own farm or ranch.

Okay, let’s come back to your music. How long did it take you to write your most recent song? When you started writing, did you think it would take that long?

Well, AJ, the most recent is Expectations - I’m still working on it. The words took about two days. The music isn’t finished yet, so who knows.

And is there anyone you'd like to specifically acknowledge who has inspired, motivated, encouraged or supported your writing?

I would certainly like to thank friends and family who’ve helped me through everything. With decisions comes responsibility, they helped me make the right choices.

Nice one, Nick. Great sentiments. Is there any one particular song that when you heard it, you thought to yourself, "I wish I'd written that one!”

Yeh! It’s called If Tomorrow Never Comes by the one and only Ronan. The lyrics are magical and so full of meaning. It written like all music should be

Thinking about your song-writing career, is there anything you'd go back and do differently?

I’d like to be able to spell properly.

I guess you could always use a dictionary, Nick. Your musical creativity is the most important thing. What is the main goal or purpose you’d like to see accomplished by your work?

I’d love to sing a song that could change someone’s life. I’d love to be the one who made a difference in the world.

Nick, before we end, is there anything you want the readers to know, anything you count as important in life?

The most important piece of information I can think of, is never forget those who help you. Friends and family are the most important things in your life, they’ll inspire you and help you achieve your ambitions. You’re never alone in this business there are so many people in the same situation, I have lots of friends who helped me start and if I find global success with my music, I’ll never leave them behind.

I'm off to see my girlfriend now because she’s most probably the biggest inspiration on my music. KEEP WRITING YOUR IDEAS DOWN OR YOU’LL FORGET THEM.

Thanks for that, Nick. May I wish you luck with your career.

*** Ronan Keating, Nick Wilson ***

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Kanye West, writer?

Tell Me a Story - opinion

What a load of crap

Rap star Kanye West admits he doesn’t read books. He says he has no regard for them - yet he’s had the audacity to write one, and admits he wants you to buy it.

To see the whole story go to this Redgage article

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Book Promotion

Tell Me a Story - Publicity Info.

For those with a book just out or about to be published, it's an exciting time. You probably have visions of fame and glory .... sorry to bust your bubble, but it doesn't quite work like that.

After the euphoria of holding that novel in your hands the truth starts to dawn. You need sales. Who is going to purchase?

Without promotion no one will know your book exists, there will be no sales, no best-seller, no matter how brilliant the writing.

The sad truth is, that for the majority of authors, there will no promotion campaign from the publishers. YOU will be responsible for your own publicity. How to do it, what to do?

As a starting point take a look at these tips for getting started with book promotion from Rusty Shelton of Phenix & Phenix Literary Publicists.

*** Book promotion, Book promotion, Book promotion ***

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Japanese author, Koji Suzuki, and 'Drop'

Tell Me a Story - comment.


Here’s a novel idea…. The ultimate in recycling.

The latest book from Japanese author, Koji Suzuki, “Drop,” hailed as a horror experience in the toilet, is printed on rolls of toilet paper. Is that some sort of foreboding? Does he expect it to be flushed away….. Or flushed with success?

Koji Suzuki is the author of the horror story ‘Ring’, which was turned into a movie by both Japanese film-makers and Hollywood.

At least this book might be useful for wiping your backside on if you don’t like the story. I suppose it’s not too far removed from the days when we had old newspapers hanging in the loo…. They say things go in cycles… Or is it recycle.

*** Koji-Suzuki, Drop, Koji-Suzuki, Drop, Koji-Suzuki, Drop ***

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Books-A-Million, profits from economic downturn

Tell Me a Story - comment.

It seems that not all is gloom and doom in the publishing industry after all. Maybe people are turning to books as a means of escape from economic misery.

Books-A-Million unexpectedly furnished better than predicted first-quarter results, the bookstore chain even posting a 2.0% sales increase during the period, with sales bringing in $118.2 million.

Books-A-Million say their book business remains "challenged" but the bargain book segment did well. Apparently, Stephenie Meyer and her Twilight series drove a substantial amount of the profit into their tills – so her writing IS good for something…

If things aren’t so bad after all, maybe they’ll stock a few other authors. Think on, Mr. Books-A-Million, we all need a leg up, especially in difficult economic times….

*** Books-A-Million, Books-A-Million, Books-A-Million ***

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Author, David Sedaris, to sign books in Duluth

Tell Me a Story - news.

Those lucky enough to live around Duluth, Minnesota, are in for a treat.

Best-selling writer David Sedaris, will be in Duluth store, ‘Northern Lights Books and Gifts’, 307 Canal Park Drive, on June 8 to sign copies of his book, “When You Are Engulfed in Flames.”

David Sedaris, author of five previous New York Times Best Sellers, will read from his book and then sign books around 6 p.m.

Apparently the only condition for attendance to the event, is purchase of at least one David Sedaris book or CD from the store PRIOR to the date, to receive a ticket, which will be available June 1.

Actually when you think about it, he’s on to a good thing, he’s making two sales for each person attending – not a bad marketing strategy.

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John Hart and The Last Child

Here’s a novel approach to a novel. Fancy your name being read by thousands – fame at last…

John Hart

Best-selling writer John Hart has a brand new book coming out Tuesday, May 12. The Last Child is his third best seller, and sure to be seen around all good swimming pools everywhere.

The Greensboro Children's Museum NC is holding a release party before the release date on Monday, May 11 at the Greensboro Country Club. John Hart will be there himself for a sneak peek inside his new book.

Tickets are $150 per person and include a pre-released, signed and dated copy of The Last Child. Proceeds from the event will support The Greensboro Children's Museum.

In an attempt to boost money, there will be a raffle, which gives the winner the unique chance to have their name as a character in John Hart's next book!

Tickets are available for $20 or $100 for six. The winning ticket will be drawn by John Hart himself at the event on May 11th.

So there you are writers. Take a leaf from John's book. Hold a raffle to have a reader's name in YOUR next book - generate a bit of oomph!

*** John Hart, John Hart, John Hart ***

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Stephenie Meyer and Jodi Picoult - whoops...

She’s in the news again. A lot of us who haven’t read her work might be suspect of it. Some of us will be very envious of the success she’s had. Most of us would like to emulate her sales. But whatever we might think of her, Stephenie Meyer isn’t going to go away.

Stephenie Meyer smacked once again by fellow authors.

Stephen King, recently gave Stephenie Meyer an academic rabbit punch by claiming she isn’t a very good writer. He is after all, Stephen King, and he carries a certain a reputation of slapping people down - and outbursts are expected of him now - bit of a loose cannon perhaps.

The latest author to singe the paperwork is Jodi Picoult. She has almost 14 million books in print, and has just taken a swing at the injured Stephenie Meyer – nothing like kicking someone whilst they’re down. In Newsweek magazine, Picoult pronounced,

“In terms of the literary content of the ‘Twilight’ books, they’re totally escapist. I think technically I am maybe a cut above her.”

Wow – she’s publicly stating she’s better than Stephenie Meyer. She probably is, but I rather think it's up to other people to decide that, not her. No one likes a big-head. She tries to qualify it later with

“Stephenie Meyer has gotten people hooked on books… and that’s good for all of us.”

Nope, the damage has already been done. No use going back on it, Jodi. No use saying you meant something else.

A nobody like me can get away with it – who the hell takes notice of what I think anyway – but Jodi Picoult???? Whoops, tongue slipped out before brain engaged, Jodi.

Too late, way too late….

*** Stephenie Meyer, Jodi Picoult, Stephenie Meyer, Jodi Picoult ***

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Malia and Sasha Obama in the garden

Tell Me a Story - comment.

Who ever would have believed this. For the first time in almost 100 years, vegetables will be grown at the White House.

Michelle Obama drags Malia and Sasha to the garden.

Michelle, Malia and Sasha are preparing a 1,100-square-foot raised-bed organic plot on the South Lawn of the White House. There will be over fifty assorted vegetables and herbs growing, and will not only be used for family meals and snacks, but also official dinners - a table talking point no doubt.

The family are also planning to install a couple of beehives to assist with pollination - and presumably provide honey.

Michelle Obama said in an interview with The New York Times,

“Growing food locally is sustainable, uses no fuel for transportation, and reduces the amount of chemicals released into the environment. It also teaches children about healthy eating and avoiding obesity.”

Malia and Sasha were apparently starting to put on weight through eating too many pizza and sandwiches. The exercise and fresh-air in the garden will certainly assist there - a spot of gardening always helps shed a few pounds.

I spend quite some time in the garden - nothing like a spot of back-to-nature to get the old brain juices going. I've planned one or two stories whilst pulling weeds - maybe I ought to push it as a way out of writer's block - writers, take note - pick up your spade if you want to complete that novel ....

Thinking about it, this could be the start of something big. Let’s hope kids throughout America will follow suit, after all, what’s good for Malia and Sasha is seen to be good for them too. Malia and Sasha appear to be THE trend setters

Time will tell…

*** Malia and Sasha Obama, Malia and Sasha Obama ***

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End of post - Malia and Sasha Obama in the garden

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Writing tips – manuscript submissions guidelines 15 vital checks
Overcoming writer’s block
Ideas for saving money
How to deal with anxiety

Debut novel from author, Jim Zervanos

Tell Me a Story - author news

The debut novel, LOVE Park, by Jim Zervanos is due to be released today, May 1st, 2009. Take a look at this MediaWire release to see what you think.

Hope he finds success. Its always good to hear debut writers hitting the right chord.

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End of post - Debut novel from author, Jim Zervanos

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Writing tips – manuscript submissions guidelines 15 vital checks
Overcoming writer’s block
Ideas for saving money
How to deal with anxiety

An interview with author, Mark Sadler

Tell Me a Story - Interview

I’d like you to meet a Facebook friend of mine, author, Mark Sadler. I don't know about you, but I just love finding out what makes other writers tick. Each one seems to be unique in their experience and approach. Mark is no exception
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Hi Mark, I wonder if you’d like to introduce yourself.

Hi AJ. Life began in a small caravan in my grandmother’s garden in Dudley England, May 1956. By the time I graduated from Codsall Comprehensive in 1974 a future in writing seemed to be taking a clear path. The following year I immigrated to the States on a student visa to attend Ambassador College Big Sandy Texas and majored in journalism and speech.
In 1979, I was offered the opportunity to write an editorial column in a new publication, OKC Sports Fan Forum, covering the progression of soccer as America hosted the World Cup. A family started, two boys.
By 1993 employment opportunities took me to Tucson AZ, where I remarried and had a third son and live to this day, trying to start up a second career as a novelist; something to tide me over as retirement creeps nearer every year.

Mark, it's rare today to find an author who does nothing but write for a living. Do you have a 'real' job other than writing, and if so, what is it? What are some other jobs you've had in your life?

For the past thirty years I have worked in the debt collection business with a variety of collection agencies. I have also worked as a shop hand in a steel mill, been an employment counselor, sold furniture, made cheese burgers & fries, sold loft installation, had a stage act at a comedy club, performed voiceovers for radio commercials, and wrote an editorial column for a weekly sports magazine, but never swept streets as my father had once suggested was all I was capable of doing.

And just what was it that compelled you to write your first book?

After my last divorce I left town in the middle of the night and disappeared for a month. I ended up humping a sixty pound backpack over some of the most desolate and hardy terrain I had ever been on; the Appalachian Trail in northern Georgia.
The power of healing that the trail possesses is so far beyond anything one can imagine without having experienced it first hand and I wanted to capture that feeling a la Bill Bryson, Rick McKinney or David Miller but their stories were so compelling that I knew I would have a hard time competing; my story seemed diminished in their shadow so I took it to another level and built a murder mystery out of the scenario and fictionalized the story instead.

Okay, perhaps you could tell us a little bit about your book, let us know what it’s about.

Blood on His Hands is a contemporary thriller/mystery that examines the internal battle we all face at some point as to what we will tolerate in our lives when it comes to doing the right thing, the eternal fight of good v. evil.
It is manifested in the book when a cheating wife is caught red-handed by her husband. After killing them the husband leaves town. On the run he examines his life up until that fateful moment. Will he turn himself in and admit to a crime of passion, throwing himself on the mercy of the courts, or live life on the run?
We run with him as his journey takes him from rural Oklahoma to the glitz of Las Vegas and finally out on the Appalachian Trail in northern Georgia where he is forced to deal with the question of what to do with the rest of his life.

And are you currently working on any writing projects our readers should watch for release soon?

Well I’m not sure how soon, soon is but yes I am building a series of at least five crime thrillers featuring Nate Duarte, a Tucson police detective whose mother was an illegal alien and his father a border guard.
Look for lots of current action bringing in the daily headlines involving illicit drugs and illegal alien crossings. Duarte is, however, a sex crimes detective so each book will have a juicy crime to solve at the same time.

Mark, let’s go back in time. When growing up, did you have a favorite author, book series, or book?

As a teen my tastes ran to Louis Lamour and Alistair McLean however I also enjoyed intricate relationships and to this day by favorite book is Sons and Lovers by D.H. Lawrence. I still read that one at least once a year.

And what about now: who is your favorite author and what is your favorite genre to read?

Currently I am fascinated with Jim Crace but I still fall back on thrillers and espionage as my main stays as far as genre is concerned. Patterson, Higgins, Forsyth all spin a great yarn.

How about bringing us into your home. Set the scene for us when you are writing. What does it look like? On the couch, laptop, desk

Well seeing as I am there as we speak it’s not hard to do. Low light, a lamp illuminates from behind the computers monitor. I have all my research notes to my right and opposite all the writing tools, dictionaries, editing rulebooks and Anne Lamott’s Bird by Bird for a little inspiration if I just can’t figure what to write next.
I peck at the keyboard, one finger on each hand is the standard, right into the computer, often referring to hand written notes, or Google references as I go. My glasses sit on top of the printer, I can’t see with the damn things on! Guess that’s part of being over fifty! Oh and in the evening there is usually a Dewar’s White Label, neat.

I like the idea of Dewar’s – always good for the imagination…. Focusing on your book, tell our readers what genre it is and what popular author you think your writing style is most like.

I had a hard time really putting a boilerplate label on the genre of Blood on His Hands. How about a contemporary thriller/mystery?
The story line is well-worn one; the struggle of the power of evil over good but the way it is told is unique. I was unable to pin point anything similar. I can’t compare myself to another writer but there are definite influences, Crace for one. His Being Dead was the inspiration for the scene after the bear attack.
I read while looking for inspiration just to see how my contemporaries handle situations, and I must admit that I really admire Norman Mailer’s ability to describe the physical attributes of his characters and I felt almost a type of permission to be a little more detailed after reading his works.

So how long did it take you to write it? When you started writing, did you think it would take that long?

Three years until I had a finished manuscript. It had actually been so long since I written formally that I went back and enrolled in college to take writing courses and work shops and it really helped with the style of my writing, especially when considering whether to write in the first or third person.

I’m glad you mentioned taking a writing course. I always advise newbies to study the nuts and bolts first. For some reason, a lot of them think a writer just sits down and produces publishable work – not so. We all have to serve an apprenticeship.

Mark, It's said that the editing process of publishing a novel with a publisher is can be grueling and often more difficult than actually writing the story. Do you think this is true for you? How did you feel about editing your masterpiece?

Oh I failed miserably. I thought how hard would it be, I surely don’t make more than a handful of mistakes and those would be typos? Well goodness, when I got that first proof back I let a friend read it and between the two of us, I’m embarrassed to say, we found over 200 errors, and not just typos; many grammatical problems, dangling modifiers, punctuation etc. Well it is now my resolve the next time to hire a specialist before sending in that first proof.

Before we finish, would you like to tell us where to find your books, any blogs you may have, or how readers can learn more about you and writing?

The best place right now to find information about my book is my website, http://www.markpsadler.com/. It will eventually be available at http://www.amazon.com/, http://www.barnesandnoble.com/ and through my publisher’s site www.bbotw.com, but that will only be after publication in June.
Also you can find me in Facebook, sign up to my fan page for more book updates and follow me on Twitter. If you don’t have access to any of those then just e-mail me at markpsadler@gmail.com and I’ll do what I can to help you find a copy of the book.

Thank you, Mark Sadler. Hope we see you name in lights soon.

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End of post - An interview with author, Mark Sadler

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Looking for a good read? Try:-

Short Moments - collection of 10 short stories

or

Past Sins - Contemporary fiction

'TRANS 2.0' and Julio Serrano's, World Book Day

Tell Me a Story - comment

I’m not sure what he’s trying to achieve, but to commemorate World Book Day, a Guatemalan author, Julio Serrano, has asked fifty of his friends to circulate different portions of his book 'TRANS 2.0' on their blogs.

Uniting fans

The innovative publishing project seems to be uniting aficionados of literature from all over the world as they rush to contribute to the open license scheme. The author’s site apparently will contain links to all of the participating bloggers.

I wonder where money figures in the scheme? Most authors write for money. We all need money, and writing is how authors earn the stuff. If the whole book is given away piecemeal, then what is he achieving, except notoriety – but then again maybe publicity is what it’s all about. Maybe he’s hoping to win fans in preparation for his next book ….

How about something like that for your next publicity stunt, Stephenie….

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To Write A Story - 20 Ways To Write A Story Better
How To Describe - Mastering Descriptive Writing
7 Cool Ways To Jump-Start The Story Characters In Your Writing


End of post - 'TRANS 2.0' and Julio Serrano's, World Book Day
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Stephenie Meyer and Deseret Books

Tell Me a Story - comment.



Stephenie Meyer - has been hit by more problems – or is it yet one more publicity stunt…. I can’t help but be suspicious of the ‘happenings’ surrounding Ms. Meyer’s books. Maybe I’m super-critical, but in these circumstances I tend to think ‘hidden agenda’…. Her public problems are beginning to tot up…. And after each problem, her sales shoot through the roof….

As my old mum used to say, 'There’s no such thing as ‘bad’ publicity.'

The latest happening

…. Deseret Book stores have apparently taken the decision to remove Stephenie Meyer's best-selling vampire romance books from the shelves of its chain stores. Customers can ask for Meyer's Twilight, New Moon , Eclipse or Breaking Dawn to be specially ordered, but they will no longer be available over the counter.

"We're never really given a reason for these things," said Steve Hartvigsen, manager of the Deseret Book store at Valley Fair Mall. "We just get a return sheet and send books back."

Leigh Dethman, Deseret Books spokeswoman, was not available for questions about the decision, but an e-mail said,

"Like any retailer, our purpose is to offer products that are embraced and expected by our customers. When we find products that are met with mixed review, we typically move them to special order status."

Elizabeth Eulberg, director of publicity for Stephenie Meyer's books, said in a statement, “She had not been alerted to any changes regarding the distribution at Deseret, and had no further comment.”

So what's going on .... the left hand doesn't seem to know what the right is doing... or is it all smoke and mirrors to whip up interest....


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To Write A Story - 20 Ways To Write A Story Better
How To Describe - Mastering Descriptive Writing
7 Cool Ways To Jump-Start The Story Characters In Your Writing

*** Stephenie-Meyer, Stephenie-Meyer, Stephenie-Meyer ***

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End of post - Stephenie Meyer, and Deseret Books
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Deirdre Madden short listed for Orange Prize

Tell Me a Story - author Deirdre Madden.

Author Deirdre Madden, an important voice in writing in Northern Ireland, has been short-listed for the Orange Prize for Fiction for her novel, Molly Fox’s Birthday. Her interest in how others perceive their status in the world often leads her to scrutinize establishments that affect people's lives.

Madden, wedded to poet Harry Clifton, is the only author on the list who has been short-listed in the past for the award. Her novel, One by One in the Darkness , lost out to Anne Michaels’ Fugitive Pieces in 1997.

Madden has previously won the Rooney Prize for Irish Literature, the Somerset Maugham Award and the Hennessy Award for Short Fiction.

Deirdre Madden is also the creator of two books for children, Snakes’ Elbows and Thanks for Telling Me, Emily, a member of Aosdána, and lectures creative writing at Trinity College Dublin.

The Orange Prize for Fiction, established in 1996, is an annual award for fiction written solely by women, and open to all women authors who are writing in English.

This year’s winner, chosen by a panel of judges, will be announced on June 3rd at a ceremony in London, where she will be presented with a cheque for £30,000 (€34,000) and a bronze statue known as a Bessie.

I can only say, good luck, Deirdre Madden, may this be your year.

*** Deirdre Madden, Deirdre Madden, Deirdre Madden ***

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To Write A Story - 20 Ways To Write A Story Better
How To Describe - Mastering Descriptive Writing
7 Cool Ways To Jump-Start The Story Characters In Your Writing

End of post - Deirdre Madden short listed for Orange Prize.
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Stephenie Meyer steals another author's ideas

Tell Me a Story - comment

Wow! If this is true it's better than any blockbuster!

Stephenie Meyer - plagiarism?

Can this really be true? Heidi Stanton, a former friend of Stephenie Meyer, author of the crazily lucrative Twilight series, is suing Stephenie Meyer for stealing her ideas. Film production on New Moon has been halted as a result.

Heidi Stanton, who studied alongside Meyer at Brigham Young University in Utah alleges Stephenie Meyers stole the vampire story from her. Apparently it's identical to a short story she wrote while they were attending college together. - Well the little tinker.....

Stanton filed her lawsuit against Meyer in Utah last Tuesday, April 14th declaring idea infringement.

She stated, "Quite frankly, I was shocked when I began watching the movie with my husband last week. I immediately told him that she got that idea from me! I wrote a fictional short story with the same ideas when we were in college together."

Stephenie Meyer claims the storyline for Twilight came to her in a dream. She completed the first book three months later.

Production of New Moon has since been "put on hold" until the case is resolved. It's scheduled for release at the end of the year.

I wonder just which one is spinning a yarn? I know who has most to lose.... or does she. Shit.... I suppose it means she'll sell another million copies.... As my mum used to say - "Them that have, will have..."

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*** Stephenie Meyer, plagiarism, Stephenie Meyer, plagiarism, ***

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To Write A Story - 20 Ways To Write A Story Better
How To Describe - Mastering Descriptive Writing
7 Cool Ways To Jump-Start The Story Characters In Your Writing

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