I’m so excited by these books, I have to pass them along.
First of all, right now you can get for the incredibly low price of $20 this entire story bundle of writing books. I would have bought just one of the books on my own–the horse one by Judith Tarr, since I’m writing a lot of horse scenes these days for The Bradamante Saga and yes, I’d like to make sure I get them right–but then once I saw all the other awesome craft books in this bundle: SOLD. Because every writer can get better, and it’s such a pleasure to read a great craft book by authors who are experts in their field.
And speaking of authors who are experts in their field, the great young adult author Tom Leveen now has a new book out on writing dialogue. Before turning to novels, Tom spent many years in the theater as both an actor and director. I’ve taught writing workshops with him, and his tips for writing great dialogue are always FANTASTIC. Treat yourself to this book. You’ll learn a ton.
That’s it for now, gang. Happy Writing!
Self-published—and to an extent, traditional—writers who owe much of their reading audience to Amazon’s publishing platform are upset with the retailer’s new Kindle Unlimited program, notes the New York Times’ David Streitfeld.
The KU subscription service offers 700,000 self- and traditionally published books for $9.99 per month. While this new model may continue to draw readers, writers are earning less. Successful romance author Holly Ward, writing as H.M. Ward, saw her income drop 75% after two months in the program. She wrote on the site kboards under the topic “KU Crushed My Sales,” “I couldn’t wait and watch things plummet further,” and left the program.
Streitfeld writes, “Amazon, though, may be willing to forgo some income in the short term to create a service that draws readers in and encourages them to buy other items. The books, in that sense, are loss leaders, although the writers take the loss, not Amazon.”
Authors’ responses have included calls to unionize. As the Times points out, “since the payment is the same whether the book is long or short, other writers are taking the hint,” and adapting by writing in shorter forms, with serial novels and short stories, and publishing more frequently.
E-Book consultant and publisher Bob Mayer split his book on failures of technology and leadership into seven different Kindle Unlimited volumes. Ward’s first novel was 500 pages; some of her recent works average 100 pages. Volume 17 in her “The Arrangement” series pubbed in early November; she brought out “Life Before Damaged Vol. 1” at November’s end, following it with “Life Before Damaged Vol. 2” two week later.
“I’ve started working with four co-authors,” Ward told the New York Times. “If you’re not constantly putting out new material, people forget you’re there.”
New Career Opportunities Daily: The best jobs in media.
I've been really bad with keeping up this blog, but I promise to get back on track after the FF&P (Fantasy On The Bayou) Writers Conference and Book Signing is over.
For those in the New Orleans/Gulf Coast region - check out this list of authors signing at the book signing on Sunday at 9am-11am at the Marriott -555 Canal Street - New Orleans, March 4, 2012.
Click this link from Octavia Books!
Just to name a few. Maggie Shaye, Bob Mayer, Kristen Painter, Claire Ashgrove, Diana Rowland, Farrah Rochon, Diana Avet, Leanna Renee Hieber, Kate Kaynak, Rebecca Zanetti, Angie Fox, Damon Stenz, and I could keep on going...but my brain is too tired...
Book signing is free to the public! Get there early, are you might miss out!
Dawn
p.s. For the raffle winners of the Tavioli necklace, I will ship it next week. I didn't forget you. Sorry for the delay.
If you follow me on Twitter and FB you know I've been busy as heck working on the 1st FF&P "Fantasy On The Bayou" writers conference and book signing.
Where: Marriott 555 Canal Street, New Orleans, LA
When: March 2-4, 2012
Why you ask? Well, first it's because the New Orleans region doesn't get too many writers conferences coming into town. Normally we have Heather Graham's (which is wonderful by the way) for Labor Day weekend, and then the jubilee conference in Houma. Other than that, there is really nothing else that I know of. So, being a FF&P member,(no you don't need to be a member to come) I decided I would volunteer to help out. (that's what us southern girls do. lol) Well, somehow I'm now Co-Chair along with Staci McGlothlin who is amazing! And with the help of other FF&P members the moment has come. Woot! Can't wait!
And second, who doesn't want to come to New Oleans? This is the best place in the world to get inspired, eat the best food and the locals are just super friendly! Just don't stray into a dark alley with them...they might suck on your neck...
The conference starts off with workshops on Friday, a agent/editor panel Q&A and then for those who sign up a vampire/ghost tour. (I've been and loved it)
Saturday is filled with loads of things to do all included. Pitches/Workshops/Luncheon with keynote speaker, Karen Moning/Workshops/Dinner (cash bar not included) and then your on your own to party or write if you are inspired. (or just hand out with me) Sunday morning will be the book signing. Then back to the real world.
So if you want to join us, go sign up! There is still room available. www.fantasyonthebayou.blogspot.com
You never know. You might just meet your future agent or publisher!
