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Award Winning Children’s Book Author Max Releases “Sing With Max” Music CD Featuring Songs That Address Social Issues (via MarketWired) SOURCE: Emarketing of Michigan, LLC September 12, 2013 08:12 ET “Sing With Max” Children’s Music CD Album Is Officially Released Addressing Social Issues for Parents and Children Like Reading a Book, Anti-Bullying, Fitting In, Healthy … Continue reading »
CreatureCast: The normal distribution crops up many places in nature. The central limit theorem explains how it provides a near-universal expectation for averages of measurements. NYT on Google Plus: http://bit.ly/WnAshF Watch more videos at: http://… Continue reading »
Top 5 Excuses That May Be Stopping You from Writing a Book (via Spirit Authors Marketing & Publishing Tips for Authors) Author and book marketer Lynn Serafinn tackles the most common excuses she hears from aspiring authors, with tips for how to move past them and write your book. Over the years, I’ve worked with … Continue reading »
Rebel Entertainment Reveals Storm the Gates for iPad and Web (via NewsCanada-Plus) Rebel Entertainment Reveals Storm the Gates for iPad and Web Creator of Critically Acclaimed Dungeon Rampage Introduces New Cross-Platform Multiplayer Turn-Based Tactical Combat Game for Tablets and WebBurbank, Calif. – Oct. 1, 2013 – Rebel Entertainment…
There are a lot of fantasy novels that have characters with unearthly powers. In the end, all these creatures want is some love so it is very touching to find them getting what they want. These novels prove that love indeed conquers all even between two creatures that have nothing in common: 1) Halfway to … Continue reading »
Best Vampire Movies (via http://blog.privateislandparty.com) Blood suckers of the night, the dark ghouls of nocturnal hunger, Beware the Vampire! some scholars believe the legend of the creature from beyond the grave, feasting on the blood of the living goes back even to prehistoric times. These beliefs lead to mass hysteria in more than one era, … Continue reading »
An Interview Horror/Zombie Author RJ Spears (via http://myebookjourney.com) In honor of Hallowe’en, during the month of October I’ve decided to do interviews with authors who write in the horror/zombie genre. The first of these interviews will be with RJ Spears. Here’s what he had to tell me: Why did you decide to…
The success of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, a long-famous feature-length movie, gave a chance for the animated films industry to take their own niche and develop with time into a profitable and independent branch of the movie industry. It was a forerunner for the string of successful animated movies, and it makes it … Continue reading »
Is Unprofessionalism Keeping You From Being Published? (via http://writedivas.com) In today’s featured article, Diva Shay is going to pull from her background as an acquisitions editor and delve into how unprofessionalism can keep you from being published. Rejection letters. Strange how two innocuous words such as these can make…
Hi! I’ve been reading your site for a while now and finally got the courage to go ahead and give you a shout out from Porter Texas! Just wanted to say keep up the fantastic work!
Today I am posting a personal interview of author C.K. Volnek. C.K., also known as Charlie, wrote Ghost Dog of Roanoke Island due to be released September 2011 and The Secret of the Stones to be released late 2011 both from MuseItUp Publishing.
September 2010
Did you grow up in a ‘reading’ household? Do you think that made a difference in the amount of reading you do? Did it affect your desire to write?
I spent a lot of time reading books when I was young, living the exciting lives of the many characters. Being the youngest of six it gave me the outlet since my older siblings were way too busy to mess with a little sister. I loved books and spent a great deal of time at the local library, reading as much as I could to win the various reading contests. I still have my very first book I won. It holds a special place in my heart, kind of like a badge of honor.
I suppose reading gave me some desire to write. I’ve always loved to put the words on paper. But it was watching my middle son that gave me the passion to write for MG, Tween and YA. He hated to read, but he’d stick his nose into the Goose Bumps collections. So I decided to hone my skills in this genre, hoping to give younger readers something the sink their teeth into. Kids are fun. Kids are cool. They’re not adults, but they’re not babies either. They like to be challenged and if you can keep their interest, are ready to learn.
As a youngster, what did you want to be when you grew up? When did this change, if it did.
I’ve always loved writing and drawing. My desire as a teenager was to write and illustrate children’s books. I have my degree in Commercial Art. Unfortunately life got in the way, making my muse take the back seat. I still use my Art degree but mostly do layout and design work. But now that my kids are growing up, time is allowing me more creative space to go after my dreams and someday make writing and illustrating my full-time career.
What was your favorite childhood activity and why?
I was one of those typical ‘horse-crazy’ teens. I was fortunate to live where I was able to have my very own horse. So I spent a lot of time taking care of her, riding and showing. Ahh, for the long summer afternoons of cantering down the dirt roads behind my home town. My third novel, A Horse Called Trouble, is near and dear to my heart, reminiscent of my days riding horses.
Has your writing ever been influenced in any way by this activity?
I have written one horse story. A tween story of a neglected tween and a troubled horse and how they come together to save each other. I wrote it for one: to share the story of the many ‘horse therapy programs’ around the united states, two: to tickle my muse’s fancy, and three: to tickle the fancy of all the horse-crazy tweens like me.
What was your favorite book as a teen and why?
I honestly read more freely as a pre-teen. As a teen, I focused more on the books we needed to read for English. I admit, I still think back fondly on
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This week we are talking with Kate Wesley, the main character of author Roseanne Dowell’s book Double the Trouble. Kate, how are you today? Tell us about your world, city, time period, etc. Oh my city is great. I live in Twinsburg, Ohio. It’s the Twins Capital of the world. Every year we have a festival celebrating Twins Day. Twins come from all over the world to participate. It’s such fun. The town was started by identical Twins – Moses and Aaron Wilcox. They were lifelong business partners, married sisters, had the same number of children, contacted the same fatal ailment, died within hours of each other and are buried in the same grave at Locust Grove Cemetery where I found the dead body. But I’m getting ahead of myself.
Tell us about your life – family, significant other, children/grandchildren, pets?
I have parents, of course, two sisters and my babies, schnauzers, Pepper and Rebel
As for a Significant Other? Not at this time. But that may change. (wink wink) Are you still in school? Heavens no
How old are you? A lady never reveals her age, but since you asked, I’m 32.
Do you have a job? I own a florist shop
Tell us about your friends: I really don’t have a lot of friends. I just returned to Twinsburg after being gone for five years. Opening a florist shop takes most of my time.
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You know you're a Floridian if....
Socks are only for bowling.
You never use an umbrella because you know the rain will be over in five minutes.
A good parking place has nothing to do with distance from the store, but everything to do with shade.
Your winter coat is made of denim.
You can tell the difference between fire ant bites and mosquito bites.
You're younger than thirty but some of your friends are over 65.
Anything under 70 degrees is chilly.
You've driven through Yeehaw Junction.
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Business Writing and Practical Tips
Find tips related to business communication and resume writing, plus marketing and branding resources for freelancers.
@writeyourbook: Learn how to write a book that boosts your brand.
@evernote: web organization and bookmarking tool shares tips on how to keep up with all of your research and brainstorming ideas.
@TopicTurtle: ebook news to social media to tagging tips.
@BeTheMedia: tips on connecting with readers and your audience on social media.
Creative Writing
Find tips for writing short stories, poetry, novels and more from these Twitterers.
@StoryBuzz: ghostwriter who shares inspiring quotes from writers and writing tips.
@MyBookTherapy: Become a better fiction writer
@kidswritebooks: tips for kids who want to write.
@TheWritingFreak: serious fiction writing tips.
@markdavidgerson: screenwriter is a writing and creativity coach.
@lydiaruth77: enthusiastic, community-oriented writer of poetry, essays and fiction who likes sharing tips and inspiration
@kaitnolan: romance writer who keeps followers updated on her progress, favorite tools and more.
@poetryc: writing poetry and more.
@TheWritersDen: swapping story writing tips with other aspiring authors.
@kristycolley: writes fiction and hopes to be a best-selling author one day.
@jamieharrington: her quest to write a villain book.
Blogging/Internet Writing
Learn how to make the most of your online writing opportunities from these writers.
@writing_online: tips and highlights great writing from the web, including poetry, articles, essays and more.
@Jocelynfi55: Learn better blogging and business writing tips for the Internet
@englishcomp: English teacher who enjoys tweeting about writing, web tools and more.
@jlucymuses: Learn about blogging and journaling
@suejeff: UK-based writer who posts Internet writing and branding tips on her feed.
@SharonGerlach: help other writers to get organized online for the sake of promoting their work.
@wordhack: Internet hack writers and copywriters
@inkyelbows: web writer with lots to say about the industry.
@OnlinePublicist: connect books to the online world.
@motsjustes: helps writers and bloggers find the right words.
@contentmanager: Lea
This week I interviewed multi-published author Ginger Simpson.
When did you begin writing?
I started my first novel in 2001, and in 2003, Prairie Peace was published. I’ve always been a great fan of historical westerns, so the genre came naturally to me since I’d grown up watching all the old westerns on TV and reading anything and everything I could get my hands on that whisked me back in time.
What do you like most and least about writing?
The thing I like the most about writing is the escape it offers me from the harsh realities of life. When I write, I’m in control.
The worst for me are the ever-changing rules and the hoops authors are forced to jump through in querying agents and publishers. There is absolutely no consistency; everyone wants something different from formatting to fonts to no attachments allowed. It’s downright frustrating at times.
Who is your favorite author? Why?
Since I’ve become an e-pubbed author, I’ve stopped promoting the big name authors. They don’t need my help. I’ve discovered a myriad of talent on the Web that rivals those listed on the NY Best Sellers List. A few of my many favorites that come to mind are Anita Davison, Margaret Tanner, Tricia McGill, Sherry Der Wille, and of course my soul sisters, Phyllis Campbell and Jannine Corti Petska. Oh, I almost forgot Ciara Gold. See, I told you I have too many favs. *smile*
What do you do for relaxation when not writing?
I read. Actually, I review books for a column on Examiner.com. It’s become somewhat of an overwhelming chore, but reading the work of others is relaxing and a learning experience. Now that I’m published, I read with an editorial eye, and I find all the mistakes that as an editor, I would have suggested removing. A good editor is key to a great read.
Tell us a bit about your upcoming book.
I just signed a contract with Muse It Up Publishing for a Young Adult novel entitled, Shortcomings. I’m so excited to have it accepted on my first try because writing historical westerns has been my comfort zone, and I’ve totally stepped out of it in completing this story. Cindy Johnson suffers a birth defect—born with one leg shorter than the other. The cruel stares and unkind words haunt her everywhere she goes in the new town her family moves to. By writing this story, I hope I can reach out to those who feel different from everyone else and help them learn that they are not defined by their own “shortcomings.” I’m pleased with Cindy’s story and I think…hope people will love it as much as I do.
When is the anticipated release?
I’m not quite sure yet, but sometime mid or late 2011. With so many “emerging authors” the wait time is getting longer and longer.
Why did you choose Muse It Up Publishing?
I’ve known Lea Schizas as a presence on the Internet for several years. She has always impressed me with her professionalism, willingness to help her peers, and someone who would go that extra mile if you asked her to. In fact, right after I met her, I nominated her for the Woman of the Year in a contest being held. I was quite certain she’d win. She didn’t, to my surprise, but she’s a definite role model and inspiration to me. When I heard she was starting her own company, I knew that’s where I wanted to be. Because of Lea’s honesty, integrity, and style, I know that she would never contract a book based on friendship. You either cut it or you don’t, and I appreciate that. Through her acceptance process, I know I have talent enough to meet her high standards and that’s a wonderful feeling.
Do you have a BLOG or WEBSITE where readers can read more about you?
http://www.gingersimpson.com
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We’re talking today with A. M. Roelke, author of a SciFi novella The Space Station Murders due out Spring 2011 by Muse It Up Publishing.
A.M., When did you begin writing?
When I was eight. Science fiction was my favorite thing to write almost from the beginning.
What do you like most and least about writing?
I like inventing. I dislike feeling nervous about what I’ve written, and worrying about revisions.
Who is your favorite author? Why?
Ray Bradbury. He inspires me, and he’s just such a cool guy.
What do you do for relaxation when not writing?
I read, swim, play with my cats, write some more, or watch TV. (I’m a fan of Jeff Goldblum stuff like “Raines” and “Tenspeed and Brown Shoe.”) I also like buying books, as my crowded quarters can attest.
Tell us a bit about your upcoming book.
Herb Molloy is a homeless ex-cop living on a space station, dealing with alcoholism after his partner’s death. He meets station newbie, Zack Ives, and the two investigate a string of homeless people murders on the station. Friendship is cemented, old wounds are healed, and the secret of the murders is revealed as the killer strikes far too close to home.
The story is fast-paced (hey, it’s only 20,000 words, so it’s got to move along at a pretty good clip), but it also tackles emotions and grief, and things like the very human feeling of not wanting people to feel sorry for you when you’re down and out; how you’d almost rather keep your pride and stay in the gutter than get help from people who pity you.
When is the anticipated release?
May 2011
Why did you choose Muse It Up Publishing?
Why did they choose me??
Well, I came across MIU from hearing about Terri Main’s acceptance there for her sf/mystery novel, The Dark Side of the Moon. When I saw they accepted novellas, I decided to submit my story, “The Space Station Murders.” I’d written it without any thought of publication, but I really loved it and the characters. Beyond reason, perhaps.
Do you have a blog or website where we might read more about you or you stories?
http://sites.google.com/site/aliceroelke/home
Do you have any other book(s) available for purchase?
Nope, nothing yet! 
Where did the concept for the book come about?
I’m a big fan of buddy stuff, like Starsky and Hutch; I was thinking about cops, and about space stations (because of a stalled sf novel of mine), and about loss and the way people deal with it. The ideas came together in the creation of Herb Molloy, and how he’s trying to deal with grief and survive in this marginal existence that he’s exiled himself to.
But he doesn’t just wallow in grief. He tries to look after his fellow homeless people, and risks his own safety to help a station newbie, Zack Ives, who later becomes a friend.
How long did it take you to finish, from concept to final product?
I really don’t recall. I wrote most of it pretty quickly. I got quite involved in the process. Then I got stuck. After a break, I ended up writing the ending in maybe one long sitting. I’d say the whole thing took at most a month, but probably less than that.
The revision
We have with us today a single author with two names and thousands of stories to tell – or so her motto goes. Today she’s talking about an upcoming release, White Savage, coming out Spring 2011 by Muse It Up Publishing.
Larriane, When did you begin writing?
I began writing years ago. I didn’t, however, start publishing until four years ago.
What do you like most and least about writing?
The most – putting the story on paper. The least, promoting. I know people get tired of hearing me say that, but it is still promoting and will no doubt always be promoting. It takes time away from writing.
Who is your favorite author? Why?
Oh, my, there’s no way I can answer that with one author. I have a lot of favorites, but it depends on what mood I’m in as to what book I will pick up when I get on a reading binge. I like authors who can keep my attention, who don’t write a story I can guess the bad guy or the ending of one chapter into the book.
What do you do for relaxation when not writing?
Read — bet you saw that one coming. I watch TV some, but usually TV is only good for about an hour before I get so restless I pick up the pen and notebook or my laptop if I’m into the editing stage, or a book to read.
Tell us a bit about your upcoming book.
White Savage, the fifth of my historical western romance series, is set in the late 1800s in the Arizona Territory. The opening is a description of an Apache passage to manhood trial. The boys are given one mouthful of water. They have to run a designated distance and spit out the same amount when they return. One of the boys is a captive, and rather than finish, he keeps running when the turnaround point is reached. If I tell you anything more than that, I’d spoil some of the story. You can guess, of course, that the rest of the story is about that boy. Or someone who is mistaken for him?
When is the anticipated release?
Spring of 2011
Why did you choose Muse It Up Publishing?
Two reasons: it was recommended by a friend, and then I saw who the publisher is, someone I knew of who has a great reputation
Do you have a blog or website?
http://www.larriane for my site and http://larionmusing.blogspot.com/ for my blog, although the same blog is posted on my website as well.
If you have a book(s) available for purchase, please tell us where we can see it.
All my books, both under Larriane and Larion Wills, are listed on my site or you can go straight to the publisher, Swimming Kangaroo Books. http://www.swimmingkangaroo.com
Where did the concept for the book come about?
I don’t remember. Sorry. Some of my books I remember what started the story off in my head, some of them I don’t. White Savage is a don’t. It could have come from anywhere, something I read, watched, observed, or sometimes, something that just popped into my head.
How long did it take you to finish, from concept to final product?
If you mean ready to release as finished, it isn’t finished yet. It still has to travel through the editing process. As for from concept to submission, if I had to count in the times it’s rested until I got around to putting it into a submitting form, that would have to be years. As I said earlier, I’ve written for a long time, but only started submitting four years ago. I’ve got a pretty good stack to draw from.
Has there been anyone/anything who influenced
Following is an interview of mine that appeared on Roseanne Dowell’s Blog recently. I thought you, my readers, might enjoy seeing it as well.
Interview of Rebecca Ryals Russell by Roseanne Dowell
1: Thank you so much for being here, First up is the obligatory question. When did you first begin writing?
I wrote a lot as a preteen until I began teaching as a young adult. Then it was sporadic. But once I retired a few years ago and the kids were teens I began writing again in earnest and finished the first book of the series I’m working on.
2: What inspired you to write?
My father wrote poetry for special occasions and after he died I discovered an unfinished manuscript. I’ve always had the desire to write, so I guess it’s in my blood. My son, age 16, aims to be a journalist. See what I mean?
3: What do you like the most and least about writing?
I love writing because it stretches my mind. Since I write Fantasy I create new worlds and creatures and such. The thing I like least about it is the marketing. I’d much rather just write, write, write.
4: What do you for fun and relaxation when not writing?
That almost never happens. Writing IS relaxing for me. I carry my laptop or a pad everywhere I go. BUT, I have been known to go to a movie with my daughter or sit on the front porch and have a beer with my husband. Then it’s back to writing until 3am.
5: Which authors do you like to read?
My favorite is Ray Bradbury. I also enjoy Stephen King, Terry Brooks, Anne McCaffrey (dragons of course), Susan Cooper, Lloyd Alexander, JRR Tolkien, JK Rowling. There are so many more! I love YA lit. I just bought Skin Hunger by Kathleen Duey because I attended an SCBWI conference and she was a speaker. Can’t wait to start it.
6: What’s the one thing you’d most like people to know about you?
I guess that would be that I’m genuine. Sometimes I come off as conceited or uncaring and tactless, but it’s usually because I’m a one-track person and not because I meant any slight. I usually say what’s on my mind, I hate playing mind-games and despise politics. I’ve tried to change, and hopefully I’ve gotten better, but I’m passionate about things and that sometimes is read wrong.
7: Tell me about your current novel, where I can find it and your website/blog.
My website/blog is Plotting Worlds. I also have a book website called Seraphym Wars, which is also the title of my series. I’ll be posting current book info at that site, while Plotting Worlds is all about helpful links and tips for writers as well as info about me and the series. Readers can also go to the Dragon’s Lair page for links to all of the sites I’m on (like Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, etc.)
The book is about: 18-year-old Myrna is drawn into the middle of an epic battle between Seraphym and Demons. An average High School student from Florida, she wakes one morning on the Steampunk planet of Dracwald, home of the demon-dragons responsible for her brother’s death and many other atrocities in the news. She meets Michael (19), who becomes her guide and explains that according to prophecy, Myrna must gather the remaining six Vigorios (teen warriors with special talents) then train with the Majikals on an enchanted island.
Reluctantly, and knowing it is her only way to get back home, she agrees to lead, battling dragons and monsters while crossing swamps and mountains, forests and seas. She discovers love when three very different men join her quest—a seasoned demon/dragon-slayer who irritates but beguiles her, a tender and sweet mentor in whom she trusts completely and a roguishly
Today I’m interviewing Roeanne Dowell, Romance Author. Her published works include Time to Live Again available from Red Rose Publishing. She has additional books coming out soon with Muse It Up Publishing. Without further ado, Roseanne:
When did you begin writing?
Gosh, I can’t remember not writing. But I started writing seriously about eight years ago. When I say seriously, I mean I started submitting my work about that time.
What do you like most and least about writing?
I love writing period. I’m not crazy about all the promoting I have to do. I’d rather spend my time writing.
Who is your favorite author? Why?
My favorite – I have several, Nora Roberts: I love the way she weaves suspense into her romance stories. I love a good mystery romance. And Lisa Scottoline because I love mysteries and I like her writing style. I also like Mary Higgins Clark, another good mystery writer.
What do you do for relaxation when not writing?
I love to embroider and quilt. I like making embroidered quilts. In fact I’ve made one for each of my thirteen grandchildren’s first baby (when they have them). I just gave one to my oldest granddaughter who gave birth to her first child June 12th. It’ll be a while before the youngest gets his (he’s not even due until September.)
Tell us a bit about your upcoming book.
Two murders, two men, one with five-year old twin daughters, complicate life for Kate Wesley. When the identical twin sister of one of the murder victims arrives in town more confusion erupts. Can Kate sort through this mess that has suddenly become her life? Double the Trouble is a mystery romance.
When is the anticipated release?
March 2011
Why did you choose Muse It Up Publishing?
I had worked with Lea previously and when I heard she started her own publishing company, I knew I had to submit to her.
Do you have a blog or website?
www.roseannedowell.com
http://roseannedowellauthor.blogspot.com/
Where can we find your currently available book?
Time to Live Again is available from Red Rose Publishing and Amazon.com
Where did the concept for the book come about?
A lot of things contributed to the writing of this book. A lot of my own personal feelings and emotions are in it. I’m not really sure how I came up with it. Maybe Mary made me write it.
How long did it take you to finish, from concept to final product?
Time to Live Again just flowed from the very first idea to the end. I honestly don’t remember how long it took. Maybe a month to write the first draft and six months before I was satisfied with the manuscript enough to submit it.
Has there been anyone/anything who influenced your writing?
Probably every author I’ve ever read.
Where is your favorite place to write? Why?
It used to be my office, but since I got my laptop and moved into our present home, the living room.
What does your muse require? (music, candles, incense)
An idea LOL. When my muse starts to bug me – all it wants is to write – no interrupti
I was absolutely shocked when I opened my email and found out I had received the Versatile Blogger Award. I am honored to receive it.
However, it comes with a few rules.
1. Thank those who loved me enough to bestow this gift.
2. Share seven things about myself.
3. Bestow this honor onto several newly discovered or followed bloggers–in no particular order–who are fantastic in some way.
4. Drop by and let my fifteen new friends know I love them.
Thank you Lea, you are a gem.
Seven things about myself.
1. 34 years ago I married a young man newly arrived from Ireland.
2. Together we built a home, added 2 adopted children and had 2 biologically.
3. My youngest son was adopted from Vietnam where we spent 2 weeks getting him.
4. I live in a restored 100-year-old Victorian house on 5 acres in the country.
5. I run a Vacation Rental business from the log house on my property.
6. For 15 years I taught Middle Grades all subjects, but English/Reading was my favorite.
7. Getting my story published will fulfill a 30-year-old dream I never thought I would accomplish.
The bloggers I nominate as Versatile Bloggers include:
Kathy Temean
The Book Smugglers
Jo-anne Vandermeulen
Quinton Wall
Cheryl Rainfield
Anna Walls
Karina Fabian
Cleverly Inked by Liz
Today’s publishing world is scary as hell.
Publishers are folding and going bankrupt right and left while others are popping up like mushrooms. That’s what makes choosing a publishing house so intimidating.
I have had the good fortune of finding the perfect publishing house. I didn’t even know one existed and was skeptical while researching this one, but as I delve deeper into its shiny depths and get to know the people involved, I can only say Thank You for allowing me the pleasure of being involved.
In choosing a publisher there are so many pitfalls to watch for it becomes nearly paralyzing. As a writer, you dream of being in print, or these days even eBook. It becomes a HUGE temptation to self-publish because it is so easy. But when you read the contracts or study the websites of some of the publishing options you’re afraid to do anything. And if you self-publish your marketing and promotion options are severely limited. But getting on with a major, traditional publishing house has become a distant dream for most of us.
I received several ‘contracts’ early on in my submissions process. I was so excited. I was going to be in print! Then I did some research and my smile began to slip.
First I checked Preditors and Editors.com. What a wonderful site this is. It saved my butt and my manuscript from a pariah of a “publisher”.
The next publisher was not a bad one, they just didn’t take enough care in editing or what they accepted. You want your publisher to be as careful with your manuscript as you were in writing it and more knowledgeable about the grammar, punctuation and structure than the writer. That means offering editing services without the writer paying for it. That’s a publisher’s job, after all. But when the website is full of glaring errors, red flags go up. I also wanted a publisher who discriminated in purchasing. I wanted to feel special if a publisher chose to print my book, and I couldn’t feel that if everything submitted was accepted.
This brings me to the publishing house I finally chose.
Muse It Up Publishing is a new Canadian small press publisher run by Lea Schizas. Lea has years and years of experience in both the author’s seat and publishing world. She has seen the business from both sides as well as witnessing first-hand the evolution of the publishing business. This gives her a unique perspective on how she plans to grow her publishing house in the future.
And I like those plans. I like the way she thinks.
The unique aspect of Muse It Up Publishing is the way Lea involves the authors in the decision-making and plans. When she has a brilliant idea, she runs it past her staff then the authors via a special email loop she has established for that purpose. And she is FULL of ideas and plans. Clever stuff that is outside the box.
Because ‘outside the box’ is where thinking needs to be in the publishing business right now in order to survive and prosper.
So I’m excited about being a part of this publishing family; and I’m especially proud to be in at it beginning and to be PART of the growth. Not only is it fun to help with the planning and implementation of new concepts, but it has made me more creative and stirred my muse.
Perhaps that was Lea’s idea when she named it Muse It Up Publishing.
Watch future posts for details on each of the authors and excerpts from the books coming out beginning October 2010.
My own book Seraphym Wars Book 1 is due out Spring 2011. I can’t wait!
0 Comments on How to Choose A Good Publisher as of 1/1/1900
Heart Of The Queen is now available from Red Rose Publishing. This menage is truly
a story blessed by the Gods. Here’s a brief excerpt:
Heather’s intercom crackled and Iris’ voice came on. “You’re new client is here with a couple of gentlemen.”
“Very well, send them in,” Heather said. She stood up and straightened her blouse as the door opened and Iris led in a woman and two men. Heather sucked in her breath at the sight of the men. Saying they were handsome was an understatement. The first man was tall with ice blond hair and a smile on his face. He reminded Heather of Hermes in both appearance and temperament.
While the first man seemed congenial, the second seemed dark and dangerous. His hair was the color of midnight and his eyes as dark as coal. He had a small scar on his chin that leant him a somewhat brutal edge. While the first man was tall, this man was a tower. Though both men were lean, Heather could see each possessed muscles that reminded her of steel. They both had work-roughened hands that made her shiver at the thought of how’d they feel rubbing her skin. Heather looked over at the woman and frowned. Something about her seemed very familiar.
She was obviously far into her pregnancy, seven months at least. She had the same coloring as the darker man, though her eyes were chocolate brown. She’d seen this woman before but she just couldn’t place her. It was a puzzle for another time. Right now, she and this woman had business to attend to.
Heart Of The Queen, book 2 in Kat’s Gods At Work series is tale of a Goddess afraid to love and two men who are determined to prove that they were made for her.
About Kat
She’s daughter, sister, niece and also willingly serve as a slave to my two precious kitties. And, She’s an author. But, no matter which hat she wears, she’s always just a girl who loves stories. She loves to read them, and she loves to create them. Check out her website at: http://www.authorkatholmes.webs.com/
I recently discovered a new way to procrastinate. Facebook. They have games that require constant attention but are addicting. I was originally enticed by the medieval themes. Then several of the games began bringing out new themes like Atlantis or Aliens and the fun cranked higher.
I decided it would fun to create a Dragon’s Lair dungeon café. So I began by creating food and selling it until I had built a sufficient pocketbook to begin buying décor. I refused to spend actual money and never have. As my café grew, my collections grew until I had an awesome dungeon café. I took some screen shots to show you the various items. It has been a lot of fun to build.
After the interior was finished, with all of the dragon or medieval items I could find, I began building a patio area based on my third book, set on an enchanted island. Note the coconut and fish chairs. Too cute.
However, now that I have sold my first book and must write the second, I won’t have a lot of time to pursue my games. But most are self-running at this point so all I need to do is stop in occasionally.
Note the dragon mirror near the bar and carnivorous plants beside the singer. At the corner tables notice the small green dragon that spits fire, the erupting volcano, the castle keep trashcan.
The clock is a monster, there’s a triceratops head on the wall and griffin door statues.
There are coconut chairs, fish chairs, treasure chest bench, clean-up octopus, coral and moving waterfall. The tiki eyes even blaze red.
Probably my favorite piece is the LOTR roving eye. And it really does rotate. The tiny fairy washes dishes.
The other games I really enjoy are Fish World and Fishville. There are castles and warriors with swords. They’re right up my alley. I have sold all of my fish so there’s nothing that will die, but I can enjoy the medieval atmosphere. And Fishville has a Fairy Tale Theme with Cinderella Castle, Carriage with horse, even a Prince Charming.
0 Comments on Facebook is Fun Procrastination and Useful Tool as of 1/1/1900
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0 Comments on Facebook is Fun Procrastination and Useful Tool as of 1/1/1900
