Hey everyone.
I belong to a writing group, HeartLa, and every year we have our FALL INTO ROMANCE READERS LUNCHEON. Here's the deal. Last year was my first year to attend. Why? Well, that's because I joined in February, and the luncheon was at the end of the year. So, here we are again, gearing up for this year. I'll have to fill you in AFTER we have the luncheon on November 5th.
For now, I wanted to share my experience from last year. If you could have seen my face. I was beaming to meet so many other writers, whether published or not. Oh, and the readers. Without them, writing just wouldn't be the same. Everyone was greeted with a bag of goodies (including a special Sherrilyn, Dianna book) good food, and of course, lots of time to get to know each other.
Me with Sherrilyn Kenyon
HeartLa group at dinner the night before the luncheon.
Our speaker was Sherrilyn Kenyon, and our emcee was Leo Honeycutt. Sherrilyn brought her friend Dianna Love. What a triple treat. Anyway, I can remember listening to every word Sherrilyn said with such awe. To an unpublished, at the time, author like me, hearing her spill her heart out was a turning point in my writing. She was funny, caring, and above all, answered all my questions. Yes, I had a lot. I was unsure if I was even a writer. I thought only published authors could call themselves that. She very kindly shared inspirational stories of people who were never published, but their work still tugged at her heart. So, unpublished can be a writer. I was glad to hear that. Rejections were getting on my last nerve.
My point to all of this is that she was so humble and
ordinary. Not ordinary, boring. Ordinary as in approachable and real ... normal. I so wish I could talk to her today after being published. I have a million question I would ask. And I'm sure she, Dianna, or Leo would answer.
In a few weeks, Sabrina Jeffries will be our keynote speaker. Debrah LeBlanc will be the emcee. I'm sure this year will hold some surprises. And just like last year, when I least expect it, something will be said that I need to hear. Something that I've had on my mind that somehow will be addressed in a way that finally makes sense. I'm sure you know just what I mean!
For an update on ALTERED, it's only been 6 weeks and the reviews have me speechless. So far, all 5 stars. Oh, and what people took the time to write is so encouraging and beautiful. When you get a chance, check out the reviews and new interviews on my website. A big thanks to everyone who continues to support me.
If you're a writer, or whatever you're doing, keep me posted. Some days you are so pumped to do what is driving you. And other days, well, we need SOMETHING SAID.
Until we chat again, have a great
Hey everyone!
Just found out that ALTERED made the "Best Seller" list for the month of September at my publishing house. Thanks to everyone for making this possible. I am forever your biggest fan!!
My fortune cookie had a very interesting message the other day - "Don't be surprised by the emergence of undiscovered talents!" This could have been your message. I've heard from so many of you that have put your talents aside thinking you don't have time or can't do it. WHAT? No more excuses. Today is your day to discover you. Keep me posted so I can cheer you on!
Until we chat again, have a great week.
Okay, here's one for you. How do you know what people really think of you? The answer is you don't. They might tell you kind words to your face, and you only hope that they do behind your back, but do we really know?
One of the reasons I'm bringing this up is because I was thinking back to elementary school. Yes, way back to first grade. I'm not going to say how far back, just trust me, it was in the early 70's. Seems like just yesterday. Anyway, I can remember the very first day of first grade when the teacher came around and asked what we wanted to be when we grew up. Some said a doctor, a teacher, a bus driver. Then it was my turn. I answered I wanted to be famous. What was I thinking? At the time I was fascinated with TV shows and all I could think of was I wanted to be on one. If only the Brady Bunch needed another sister, I would have had it made. Well, that and bleaching my hair blonde to fit in.
I can remember a few kids laughing, but to me, it was an honest answer. Come to find out, a few others wanted the same thing, but were too chicken to say it out loud. It seems even as time goes on, people are sometimes afraid of saying what they really think or feel. That's a shame. We miss so many opportunities that once it's gone, it might not come back.
I'm writing this because as a young adult author, I want the youth of today to know that you should never be afraid of speaking up or being who you are. With that being said, thanks eveyone for all your emails and kind reviews of Altered. It's been a dream come true to share my book with you and have the opportunity to get to know you.
Now go out there and grab your dream ... it's all yours! Oh, and if you have anything you want to share with me, I'd love to know.
Today I received a review that had me in tears, but in a happy way. As a writer, you love your creation, but you're not sure what others will think of it. I'm well aware that not every book can please every reader, but for today, I'm humbled and in awe of my review. Here's what I received from Zee at firepages.blogspot.com.
5/5 Stars
"Altered is everything I could have asked for and more! Laura Burks delivers paranormal, suspense, and a touch of romance in a major way. Altered is beyond 5 stars!"
Favorite Character
Jenna Larson is my favorite character. She is curious by nature and doesn't mind following her curiosity and exploring her surroundings. That is partly what gets her in trouble, but unlike other leading ladies in books and movies take on their problems by themselves, Jenna doesn't keep what she finds to herself. She shares her experiences with her lovable grandfather, John Larson. Jenna is independent, but also knows when she is over her head, when she needs to accept help.
Although young, Jenna is a very mature teenager. She is kind, honest and considerate to her grandpa. She is a good friend to her friends, Shelly and Danny. And most importantly, she is honest and respectful of herself. Regardless of the other worldly mess she gets into, Jenna is a friend I would like to have!
Quotable Quote
"Another day, another time, I would go back. But for now, my day had turned out much better than what was originally planned. Sometimes the unexpected is way more exciting." - Jenna Larson, Page 47
"'I've waited for someone like you all my life,' he breathed." - Jess Parkin, Page 254
Final Thoughts
Altered is an amazing story, one which kept me guessing all the way through. I loved that this was not your typical paranormal title. The paranormal aspect of this novel was more subtle, more disturbing. Let's talk about Louisiana and a curse from a deal gone wrong. This title makes you think twice before shortchanging someone you have made a deal with. Altered makes you think again before deciding to have your cake and eat it too.
I enjoyed reading about the budding romance between Jenna and Jess. It was slow, sensual, and deliberate. Jenna and Jess would let each other know where their heart was. There were no games. No drama. It was honesty in it's purest form. To just be with each other was enough. Every hand held, every gaze in each other's eyes, every secret shared was monumental. They lived in the moment with each other. I was often taken back to the days when my young heart was filled with that much innocence, when I experienced my first throws of love. The romance in Altered will make your heart leap more than once in fond remembrance.
Today, while the tropical storm stayed for a visit, I thought of how one word can make a difference. So many of my friends are in the waiting stage of hearing something, anything from an agent or press house. I know that feeling all too well. You wait, you pray, you write, and you wait some more. Wait for that one email you hope to see when you turn on your computer, and it isn't there.
Or, how about when you finally do get an answer and it's the typical form letter "it's not quite the right fit for my list at this time." Yep, gotta love those. The point I'm trying to make is, whether you're published or not, you are a writer. The only difference is a published author received that one word - Yes. Don't let whether you receive that one word or not dictate how you feel about yourself or make your question if you are a writer. And let me tell you, even it you do get published, those little doubts still pop up and try to steal your happiness. That one word is not the end, and it surely doesn't mean you are more deserving or have it made. Nothing in life is ever finished. It simply is a step to lead you to another step. Honestly, it's all about doing what you love to do and the the self-discovery along the way.
I love the movie Last Holiday. There's a line that Queen Latifah says that gets me every time I watch it: "... we will laugh more, we'll love more ... we just won't be so afraid ... "
Don't be afraid of what others will think if you don't get published or even if you do. You, my fellow writers, area a writer. "Yes" or not.
Happy Labor Day everyone!
My first born (book that is) was finally born September 1, 2011. Yes, that long awaited time when I can sit back and take a breath knowing all my edits, galleys, website building and so on has made it full circle.
Along the way, sometimes we find out something about ourself that we never thought we could survive. The goal is not the end, it's the complete journey. Yes, I wanted to scream, yell, cry and everything in between, but I also laughed. Laughed and learned that along the way you pick up little treasures called friends. And to me, that in itself is worth it.
One of those friends is a newly published author like me. She lives in Canada and we've only chatted through facebook (gotta love social networking) but to me, I feel like she lives next door. Her name is C. Elizabeth and her book is Absolute Obsession. When you get a chance, check out her website and book. She's an amazing person and author and I'm so glad she calls me her my friend.
The other day on facebook I posted something that I think is worth posting again. Never underestimate the power of prayer ... and the people He uses to send small messages. It just might be what you need to hear.
Have a great day everyone!
Hey everyone.
Well, here it is. My very first blog on my very first website for my very first published novel, Altered, scheduled to be released September 1, 2011. Whew... I feel like a teenager getting her driver's license. Ever had that feeling where you're excited and scared at the same time? Yep...that's me. Being published is all those emotions, and then some, all wrapped together and put out there for the world to see. FOR THE WORLD TO SEE? Okay...my stress level just spiked a notch or two.
If your wondering why I chose to write young adult, well, it's because that's my favorite genre to read. Not only is it relatable to adults, too, but it brings you back to the days when first love and growing up was fun and exciting. Funny how when you're young, you can't wait to be in high school. And then when you're out, in your mind, you think of those days often. Certain songs might trigger a memory, whether good or bad, it still brings you back to a place and time. You might even remember what you were wearing. Scary!
If you're just hearing about my debut novel, Altered, a young adult paranormal romance mystery, here's a little blurb to catch your attention:
For eighteen year old Jenna Larson, spending the summer falling in love should be normal. But when she discovers a cursed book capable of secret writings and a hidden message, finding a way to alter the curse to save a life changed everything. Only Jenna's choice may have already chosen her.
When you get a chance, check out the rest of my website and feel free to leave me a comment. I'd love to get to know you. Altered also has a book trailer.
Have you suscribed to my blog yet? Check out the side bar and sign up.
Okay, one last question before I sign off. If you could pick any book and have your name as the author, which one would you choose?
Thanks and we'll chat again soon!
Hey everyone.
Well, here it is. My very first blog on my very first website for my very first published novel, Altered, scheduled to be released September 1, 2011. Whew... I feel like a teenager getting her driver's license. Ever had that feeling where you're excited and scared at the same time? Yep...that's me. Being published is all those emotions, and then some, all wrapped together and put out there for the world to see. FOR THE WORLD TO SEE? Okay...my stress level just spiked a notch or two.
If your wondering why I chose to write young adult, well, it's because that's my favorite genre to read. Not only is it relatable to adults, too, but it brings you back to the days when first love and growing up was fun and exciting. Funny how when you're young, you can't wait to be in high school. And then when you're out, in your mind, you think of those days often. Certain songs might trigger a memory, whether good or bad, it still brings you back to a place and time. You might even remember what you were wearing. Scary!
If you're just hearing about my debut novel, Altered, a young adult paranormal romance mystery, here's a little blurb to catch your attention:
For eighteen year old Jenna Larson, spending the summer falling in love should be normal. But when she discovers a cursed book capable of secret writings and a hidden message, finding a way to alter the curse to save a life changed everything. Only Jenna's choice may have already chosen her.
When you get a chance, check out the rest of my website and feel free to leave me a comment. I'd love to get to know you. Altered also has a book trailer.
Have you suscribed to my blog yet? Check out the side bar and sign up.
Okay, one last question before I sign off. If you could pick any book and have your name as the author, which one would you choose?
Thanks and we'll chat again soon!
