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Sunday, August 10, 2008

Promotional Interview with Pamela S Thibodeaux

You have been invited to share your promotional experience with others.
Your Name:Pamela S Thibodeaux

1. Where you are from and where are you now?

PST: I am a native of Louisiana and currently reside in my hometown of Iowa, Louisiana (about 15 miles east of Lake Charles)

2. How did you get started writing?

PST: While pregnant with my daughter, who is now 25, I read one-too-many disappointing romances and thought "I can do better than that!" I'm still not sure if the book was really all that bad or if that was just one of those hormonal moments, but that was the moment my writing career began.

3. What do you do when you are not writing?

PST: I work full-time as an Insurance Sales Producer so my writing time is limited, however when I'm not actively working on a project, I'm usually editing or promoting my career.

4. What would readers like to know about you?

PST: That Jesus is as real to me as He is in the lives of my characters.

5. What inspired your first book?

PST: My first book penned, Tempered Hearts, is now published and was inspired by the thought of a woman veterinarian and a rancher who clash from the moment they meet. She is young, innocent, inexperienced, but a whiz when it comes to horses. Though not much older, he is arrogant, experienced, and jaded when it comes to love. Only when they realize the truth in a statement made by his grandfather (who hires her for the summer) can they make peace with their pasts and open up to the love between them. That statement….. “Only when hearts are tempered, minds are opened and wills are softened can man discern the will of God for his life.”

6. How many books have you written?

PST: I have four full length novels and two short stories published as well as two novels and another short story due out in 2008. I have one more full length novel and a gift book complete that are looking for a home.

7. What are the titles of your books and what genres are they?

PST: I write "Inspirational with an Edge!" romantic fiction. Tempered Hearts, Tempered Dreams & Tempered Fire (books 1-3 in 5 part series) and The Inheritance are my full-length novels. Cathy's Angel & Choices are short stories. The upcoming releases are, Tempered Joy and The Visionary (full length) and A Hero for Jessica (short).

8. How do you decide on that topic or genre?

PST: When I initially started writing I wrote romance. Period. In 1989 I recommitted my life to Christ and committed my writing to Him, praying that I not write "just another romance" but something that will glorify Him. That's when my focus changed to incorporate the characters' faith into the plot.

9. How do you manage to keep yourself focused and on track?

PST: I'm not sure that I do, LOL! Half the time, I just fumble along on a wing and a prayer, doing what I can do, when I can do it and let things fall where they may. One thing that I've found that helps me is to make "to do" lists. I'm not a huge goal setter in the traditional sense, because I feel pressured and then guilty if my goals don't materialize in the time frame I've allotted so these lists work better for me. Of course as I scratch off one thing, three are added, but this helps me prioritize and see my progress. Having a list also helps me refocus and resume when I put everything aside to do edits.

10. Do you write to make money or for the love of writing?

PST: Oh, I LOVE this question! Make money? Does anyone really write to make money? Yes, I'm sure there are those that do...especially when you reach a certain level of success. However, for me, the message is more important than the money. Of course, my one way to know that that message is getting out there is by the number of sales. :-)

11. What are some traditional methods of marketing you have used?

PST: Book signings, press releases, speaking engagements, interviews, reviews.

12. What are some unique methods of marketing you have used?

PST: One unique way is to make what I call an "envelope flyer;" a small flyer (about the size of a bookmark) that gives a brief description of my books. Leaving this with your tip at a restaurant, passing out to people you see reading on an airplane or anywhere else, leave with bank tellers, anyone and everyone you can think of can help get your name out. Does it work? In my experience, yes. I've seen an increase in sales when I do this.

13. Do you sell through a website?

PST: If so, what's the address? If not, why not? Although you can find out about my books and read excerpts on my website http://www.pamelathibodeaux.com, I don't sell my books there because they are available through the publisher's websites.

14. Where can people order your books?

PST: Ebooks can be purchased through the publisher's websites and print books through Amazon.com or from their favorite book store.

Link to buy Tempered Series E-books: www.comstar-games.com/csgstore/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=25_27

Link to buy The Inheritance E-Book: www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=410

Link to buy all full-length titles @ Amazon: www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/search-handle-url/002-3165282-8434425

Link to find short E-books @ The Wild Rose Press: www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=index&manufacturers_id=142

15. What format are your books - e-book, print, audio etc?

PST: Ebook and print.

16. Will you write more books?

PST: I sure hope so! I'd love to try my hand at writing at least one historical and I pray daily that God gives me more stories to write.

17. What do you have in the works now?

PST: 1 novel, 1 short story and 1 script are currently "in the works."

18. What does the future hold for you and your books?

PST: Great success! Isn't that the prayer of every writer? :-)

19. What was the most successful thing you did to promote your books?

PST: I'm not sure I can pinpoint one single thing except maybe an ad in Romantic Times.

20. What was the least successful thing you did to promote your books?

PST: I don't think any form of promotion could be considered "unsuccessful" because every form of promotion is a step forward.

This interview was done in conjunction with Nikki Leigh, author of the Book Promo 101 series. For more information, visit - www.nikkileigh.com/promo.h

Thursday, August 7, 2008

Promotional Interview with Vina St. Fran

You have been invited to share your promotional experience with others.

Your Name: Vina St. Fran

1. Where you are from and where are you now? I am from Detroit and currently reside in the Midwest.

2. How did you get started writing? I have been writing since I was 7 years old. I started off with poetry. By the time I got into junior high and high school, I started writing short stories and plays.

3. What do you do when you are not writing? Well, when I am not writing, I am busy with other projects such as working on my PhD in Organizational Management. I also spend lots of time with friends and family, which keeps me grounded.

4. What would readers like to know about you? My readers should know I am totally committed to bringing them storylines that will be inspirational and entertaining at the same time. I think it is important to entertain your audience as well as enlighten them as well.

5. What inspired your first book? I must say my background of growing up in one of the most diverse, upper middle-class suburban city outside of Detroit, Southfield Michigan truly inspired me. We worked together, played together, went to school together, which is something you don’t see hear about often in a number of communities across the country. The point I want to make here is we all got along very well despite our ethnicity and there is much to be said about this. Yet when I pick up a novel of fiction of any genre, I felt there was a story lacking here that needed its voice to be heard.

6. How many books have you written? “One Foot Outside The Door” is my first novel written. However, I am in the final stages of my second book that has not been titled yet. This book is the follow-up to “One Foot Outside The Door”.

7. What are the titles of your books and what genres are they? ”One Foot Outside The Door is a multicultural fiction novel.

8. How do you decide on that topic or genre? I really don’t know until I start the project.

9. How do you manage to keep yourself focused and on track? I set a realistic deadline for myself that is not too constraining. I do find I work best under pressure, however, I don’t like the stress that accompanies it. Therefore, I try to give myself a timeframe that makes sense for all parties involved.

10. Do you write to make money or for the love of writing? I love to write without question. Money is great too, but I was born to do this, and I cannot put a monetary value on the joy it brings me delivering a story of substance.

11. What are some traditional methods of marketing you have used? I have done the in-store book promotions, Internet advertising, things of that nature.

12. What are some unique methods of marketing you have used? I have utilized my friends a lot in helping me market my book. I have a marketing background and I have done things that are untraditional such as partnering with radio stations to help me promote my book locally without having to pay for airtime.

13. Do you sell through a website? If so, what’s the address? If not, why not? I am currently in the process of selling my books directly through Zam Publishing’s web site, which will take place shortly this summer.

14. Where can people order your books? My books are available at Barnes&Noble.com, Amazon. Com and other major online and retailers across the country.

15. What format are your books – e-book, print, audio etc? My book is a paperback book, in print.

16. Will you write more books? Definitely!

17. What do you have in the works now? I am finishing up on part two of the trilogy for “One Foot Outside The Door” which will be released in 2009.

18. What does the future hold for you and your books? A very promising one!

19. What was the most successful thing you did to promote your books? Utilizing the Internet as much as possible.

20. What was the least successful thing you did to promote your books? Grassroots offline marketing that took lots of time but wasn’t conducive at all.

This interview was done in conjunction with Nikki Leigh, author of the Book Promo 101 series. For more information, visit – www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm.

The Joy of Pregnancy by Tori Kropp


Tell us the book title and your author name.

It is great to be here. Thanks for having me. My name is Tori Kropp and the book is called The Joy of Pregnancy.

What inspired the book?


I have been a Perinatal nurse for more than 20 years. Even years before that I had a fascination with birth that has led me on this long and expanding road of pregnancy. There is nothing I know more about than “birthing” babies. I have seen more that 2000 babies come into the world in hospitals, birth centers, bedrooms, bathtubs, hammocks and even in the back of a pickup truck! Birth is not one bit less magical to me today than it was the first time.

Many years ago, I began to recognize that many women who were “prepared” for birth by having read books and taken classes were coming into their births ill prepared for actual labor. They were trusting a variety of “experts” and writers more than they trusted themselves. They were struggling to “think” their way through and to try to control the very primal and uncontrollable experience of childbirth.

Women today are more worried, anxious and serious than I have ever seen. Where is the humor of that expanding belly, the funny stories, and the old wives’ tales? It seems as though the common sense and lightness of this wonderful time has been replaced by dry facts about procedures, tests, and nutrition. These are all important things but certainly not the whole picture.

I have been able to use the skills I have in my work with pregnant women in a variety of ways. I have worked with women during labor, through my childbirth education company, PillowTalk® and online via my community website, Stork Site. And I know I have been able to have a positive impact. My heart warms when a woman, with a child (or two or three) in tow, makes a beeline across the street to say, “Tori, do you remember me? You were with me eight years ago when my son was born, “ or “Thanks! We learned so much in your classes. They made such a difference for us.” What could be more fulfilling?

I have always wanted to reach out to more women through a book and the time finally presented itself.

What makes this book special to you?

It is truly a work from my heart. It is not merely a resource. It is something that I have wanted to do for many, many years. It is also something that was difficult for me to complete. While I was writing the book, my life took a heart-wrenching turn. The love of my life, my husband Ray, was shockingly diagnosed with terminal cancer. At the time, our son, Alexander was 3 ½ years old. After a grueling course of chemotherapy, Ray died 14 weeks later. I wasn’t certain I could finish the book, but knowing how happy Ray was for my opportunity to write it helped me continue. Ray was my best friend and best critic, and his strength and spirit will always guide me. The Joy of Pregnancy stands a monument to his enthusiasm for the work I so love.

What makes this a book that other people MUST read and WHY?

It is simply different than the most popular books out there. It is warm and contemporary. Because I actively work with pregnant women, the information is absolutely current and sound. So many books focus on the negative possibilities and that is simply unfair to women. I focus on the realistic experiences that women may have and present information in a positive way. I talk about how normal most of what women experience is. I also share a lot of myself in the book and it is very personal and honest. My goal with The Joy of Pregnancy is to help women in the most non-judgmental way possible prepare for their babies. The book is fresh, uplifting, funny and empowering.

What people NEED to read this book and WHY?

Pregnant women and their partners or women in the “planning to be pregnant” stage of their lives. It is designed to be a guide for them to use from the moment they become pregnant or even when they are thinking about being pregnant. I have written the book in a very conversational and easy to follow way. Each chapter corresponds to the month of pregnancy that a woman is in. People close to me who have read the book tell me that it sounds just as though I am speaking. And I think I speak more comfortably than I write! I hope women can feel as though they have a trusted companion walking with them through their pregnancies.

What sparks your creativity? Any tips to help others spark their own creativity?

I feel as though I am constantly carry on conversations in my head. Often, I find myself talking aloud as well. I also can only write when I feel passionate about something and then the words seem to come easily. Otherwise, it is almost impossible for me to write. What I have found works best for me is to just let the words come out without worrying about how the sentence reads or whether or not it makes sense. That is what revisions are for. I also don’t write small amounts over long periods of time. I write big chunks all at once. Deadlines are very motivating for me.

What has been the biggest stumbling block in your writing? Can you share some tips to help others get past similar problems?

I feel I am much better at speaking with people than writing. I like the human interaction so it was hard, at times for me to sit alone in front of the computer. Although, over half the book was written after Ray died and I was really unable to interact with people at that time. Writing the book truly was the best thing for me.

Some people are writers who can write about any topic—they simply love the process of writing. That isn’t me. I need the desire and passion behind it. Sometimes I felt as though I had “homework” and that was quite a stumbling block. I had to let go of that.

What do you think motivates people to become authors? What motivated you to get into this unusual industry?

Having something to say or enjoying the process. For me, my motivation was to transfer all that was in my head and heart to the page. I wanted to reach out to more people with something I could share. It isn’t easy to be sure that your voice comes through, even after editing. That was very important for me and I can honestly say that my voice shines through in The Joy of Pregnancy.

Tell me about the most unusual things you have done to promote any books?

We spend time in the summers in a small community on Lake Michigan. This summer I posted flyers on trees and in small kiosks to let my neighbors know about it. There is even a copy in our tiny, local soda bar.

Why are you the BEST person to write this book? What in your background or in your research makes you qualified to do justice to this topic?

For a very long time, I have been able to really connect with this audience. On a very visceral level I understand pregnant women and am able to share that ability with them in a very personable and supportive way. I have attended several thousand births and have seen nearly every situation imaginable and I currently work in a very well respected, family centered women’s hospital in San Francisco.

If a potential reader thinks that your book wouldn't interest them, what would you say to convince them to buy? I'm thinking something better than "Its the greatest book ever." Give me something more specific :)

It is different. It is practical and it is fresh. It presents information in a non-judgmental way so that women have the resources to make decisions that are best for them. My dream is to bring about a change in the negativity that so often surrounds childbirth, in this country. Why is it that there is so much polarization in how women should experience their pregnancies and especially what should and should not happen during labor and birth? There are so many “opinions” about what the “right or better” choices are. The truth is that all those opinions do is create guilt for women. Of course, we want to do what is best and it simply unfair for women to feel as though a reasonable choice they make is not the “right” one.

There are certainly other really great books out there. I simply encourage potential readers to give this one a look to see if it is right for them.

Why does the topic of your book interest you? Why would it interest potential readers? Give us a hook to reel in new readers.

This topic is everything that is me. I don’t for a minute say that I know everything. I really don’t’ want to give the impression that I do. I simply have had a lot of experience and hope to share that in a positive way through The Joy of Pregnancy. Among the best-selling books, I continue to discover plenty of opinions and biases and medical information presented in a way that creates worry and fear. This book, I hope, does not do that. Much of what is written is alarmist, outdated and impractical. The Joy of Pregnancy is contemporary, very realistic, honest and positive. It speaks to today’s women.

Is there a way to tie your book topic to current events? If so, tell us about how you could do that. I have a blog to feature information and examples about tying books into current events that might be a good place for you to promote your book.

One of the things that the book does focus on is practicality, particularly related to what is useful to buy and what is and is not necessary in preparing for the new baby. In today’s economy this is very relevant. People are working harder and harder and there is a tremendous amount of marketing targeted to this audience. I talk a lot about how to spend less and focus on things such as spending money on wholesome food and buying for the long-term and borrowing for the short term.

There is also such frenzy and focus in the media related to celebrity pregnancies. The book really addresses some of the unrealistic expectations magazines and the media place on pregnancy, weight gain, postpartum and baby care. We talk about what is real for women.

If there's anything else you would like to share, this is the time and place.

I just want to say, come join me. I welcome women to read and learn and take from the pages of The Joy of Pregnancy anything that they find to be helpful. Feel free to leave the rest.

“The ride is great. There is nothing more beautiful than a pregnant woman. Babies are unbelievable, and humor is the ingredient that keeps us sane and happy.”

Thanks so much for allowing me to share all of this with you and your readers.

~~ Warmly, Tori Kropp

Wednesday, August 6, 2008

Emilio Corsetti Promotional Interview

You have been invited to share your promotional experience with others.
Your Name: Emilio Corsetti III

1. Where you are from and where are you now?

I was born and raised in Conway, Pennsylvania. Conway is a small town about thirty miles north of Pittsburgh. I now reside in Lake St. Louis, Missouri with my wife Lynn and our black lab MJ.

2. How did you get started writing?

I’ve been told (by wife on more than one occasion) that I suffer from Attention Deficit Disorder. When I’m writing, though, I am able to stay focused for hours on end. I am convinced that the brains of creative people are wired differently. I started writing because I had something to say.

3. What do you do when you are not writing?

Like most writers I am an avid reader. I spend countless hours every day lost in stories either in book form or on film. I am also an avid golfer. I also enjoy spending time with my wife.

4. What would readers like to know about you?

I think readers should know that I am more than qualified to tell the story of ALM Flight 980. I have been a professional pilot for thirty plus years. I soloed before I had my driver’s license. I also have several thousand hours in a jet similar to the one that ditched.

5. What inspired your first book?

I was fascinated by the story of an aircraft running out of fuel and having to ditch and wanted to know more about the people who were involved.

6. How many books have you written?

This is my first book.

7. What are the titles of your books and what genres are they?

The title of my just released book is 35 Miles From Shore: The Ditching and Rescue of ALM Flight 980. This is a nonfiction narrative. At one point I was referring to myself as a professional pilot and aviation writer. I decided that I didn’t want to be thought of as only an aviation writer, so I now say that I am a professional pilot and author.

8. How do you decide on that topic or genre?

As an author I am interested in telling stories that interest me and have a reason for existing. If an idea popped into my head for a novel, I might go in that direction. More than likely, though, I’d want to stick to compelling true stories.

9. How do you manage to keep yourself focused and on track?

Writing anything is hard work. You start by knowing that one page leads to another page and so on. Soon you have a first draft. There was a point shortly after finishing the first draft of 35 Miles From Shore when I was the only person in the world who knew this story. That was an amazing moment.

10. Do you write to make money or for the love of writing?

Writers write to be read. I’d rather have one story that stands the test of time than have a book come out every year just to meet an obligation to a publisher or for a paycheck.

11. What are some traditional methods of marketing you have used?

Web site, blog, reviews, press release, virtual book tour (starts in May), physical book tour (starts in May), advanced copies, free copies to people whom I interviewed, free copies to web sites in exchange for a mention and link.

12. What are some unique methods of marketing you have used?

There isn’t one thing that stands out. It’s the cumulative effect of all of the above that makes a difference.

13. Do you sell through a website? If so, what’s the address? If not, why not?

I sell eBook versions and autographed copies from www.35milesfromshore.com. I don’t have the time or desire to sell and ship books myself. I do have a direct link to Amazon.com using Amazon Associates HTML so I can earn a commission on books ordered from my site.

14. Where can people order your books?

Wherever fine books are sold.

15. What format are your books – e-book, print, audio etc?

35 Miles From Shore is available as a paperback and in the following eBook formats: Palm, Mobipocket/Kindle, Sony, MS Reader, and PDF.

16. Will you write more books?

I have learned a few things from this experience. I am very proud of the book that I have written. I will only tackle another book if the story excites me from day one and never lets up.

17. What do you have in the works now?

I have written a screenplay adaptation of the book. I have also written a second screenplay that deals with hope and the power of the mind over the body.

18. What does the future hold for you and your books?

Many people have thought about writing a book and for one reason or another they have never completed the task. Despite the odds against success and the very real possibility of failure, I have accomplished what I set out to do.

19. What was the most successful thing you did to promote your books?

There is no better marketing tool than a review. A favorable review is an unbiased endorsement. I choose 85% of the books I read based on reviews. Having a web site has also been an important factor. A review might pique someone’s interest. A visit to the web site allows them to learn more and gives them a method for purchasing the book.

20. What was the least successful thing you did to promote your books?

It’s too early in the process to say. So far everything I am doing is having a direct impact on sales.

This interview was done in conjunction with Nikki Leigh, author of the Book Promo 101 series. For more information, visit – www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm.

Saturday, August 2, 2008

Dyan Garris Talks About Her Promotion

You have been invited to share your promotional experience with others.

Your Name: Dyan Garris

1. Where you are from and where are you now?

I was born in Illinois. I live now in Arizona and Florida.

2. How did you get started writing?

I’ve been writing ever since I can remember. I wrote a children’s book when I was seventeen.

3. What do you do when you are not writing?

I swim every day. I love to walk as well. When I’m not writing books I’m writing and playing music. I’m a professional psychic. Everything works together.

4. What would readers like to know about you?

I don’t know, but they can ask me and I’ll probably answer.

5. What inspired your first book?

I had an Old English sheepdog that my little brother was fascinated with. I wrote him a little book about the dog’s adventures.

6. How many books have you written?

Seven.

7. What are the titles of your books and what genres are they?

My genre is all Metaphysical Self-Help. The titles are:
Voice of the Angels – A Healing Journey Spiritual Cards
Voice of the Angels – A Healing Journey – The Journal (for use with the cards)
Voice of the Angels – Meditation Journal (for use with my CD series of music and meditation)
Voice of the Angels – Talk To Your Food! Intuitive Cooking
Fish Tale of Woe – Lost at Sea (A small story with a very big message)
Money and Manifesting
The Book of Daily Channeled Messages

8. How do you decide on that topic or genre?

My work is all self-help. It chose me.

9. How do you manage to keep yourself focused and on track?

Being a clairvoyant counselor, I focus for a living. If I couldn’t focus I wouldn’t have any clients. It’s simply a matter of quieting the chatter of the conscious mind. It’s a mindful focus. I’ve had a lot of practice.

10. Do you write to make money or for the love of writing?

Of course I have to teach you something while answering this question. We do not “make” money. Money is energy. We create an open pathway for the energy of money to flow to us. I write because I have something to teach and I love to do it. When the creative pathway is open the money follows. It’s energy.

11. What are some traditional methods of marketing you have used?

The key to marketing is distribution. You can have the best book in the world and if nobody can find it you won’t be selling very many copies of it. Amazon is great, Baker and Taylor/Barnes & Noble are all very important. Author signings are wonderful ways to connect with people. Radio interviews should be at the top of anyone’s list as well.

12. What are some unique methods of marketing you have used?

The Virtual Book Tour is the most unique thing I’ve done in terms of marketing. It’s great fun.

13. Do you sell through a website? If so, what’s the address? If not, why not?

Yes, websites should be one portal of distribution. I have about 15 websites. The main site is www.voiceoftheangels.com There is a lot going on there. I write a Daily Channeled Message there. For my music one of the main sites is www.myspace.com/voiceoftheangels

14. Where can people order your books?

People can order my books through Amazon.com, any traditional bookstore, or through my website.

15. What format are your books – e-book, print, audio etc?

Right now they are just in print, however, I’m working on getting them into e-books.

16. Will you write more books?

No, Money and Manifesting is the last one for now. It’s at the top of the toolbox of tools for spiritual growth and transformation that I’m almost finished building.

17. What do you have in the works now?

I have two more items that go in the toolbox. One is a DVD animation. The other is another music CD that will vibrate to the eighth chakra. The existing CDs are a series of music and meditation CDs that each vibrate to chakras one through seven.

18. What does the future hold for you and your books?

Looking into my crystal ball, I see…..oh, that would be absolutely no fun to peer in on my future. I’ll just let it unfold.

19. What was the most successful thing you did to promote your books?

I’m doing it. The Virtual Book Tour is just great for book promotion. I’m also very fond of author signings because I like to connect with people directly.

20. What was the least successful thing you did to promote your books?

Well, again, it all depends upon how you define “successful". To me there is no success and no failure. Those are simply perceptions and usually they are someone else’s perceptions. In my definition of success everything is simply an opportunity.

This interview was done in conjunction with Nikki Leigh, author of the Book Promo 101 series. For more information, visit – www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm.

Promotional Interview with Mary Cunningham

Your Name: Mary Cunningham

1. Where you are from and where are you now?

I'm originally from Corydon, Indiana, but now live in West Georgia. I've moved 9 times which makes for some very interesting stories!

2. How did you get started writing?

I began writing as soon as I knew how to write words. My dad was a professional writer and I had such admiration for his work. Naturally, I wanted to write.

3. What do you do when you are not writing?

I market and promote my book series, arrange booksignings, speaking events, set up more book events with my amazing writers' group. Promotion is never-ending. When I do have some leisure time, I play golf (poorly!), watch TV, and read. I'm also a sports fanatic. Being from Indiana, I love my I.U. basketball! (the football team is doing great this year, too!)

4. What would readers like to know about you?

I have a wicked sense of humor. I'm not "quick on my feet" however. Sometimes I'll think of a really good comeback or joke…a day late. I'm also one of the least observant people on the face of the earth! Can you imagine? A writer being unobservant? My husband will say, "Wow! Did you see that woman by the side of the road with the purple cow on her head??" Uh, no…missed it.

5. What inspired your first book?

A recurring dream I'd had for more than 20 years about a mysterious attic. When I finally realized that the dreams took place in the attic of my childhood best friend, Cynthia, the dreams stopped and the writing began.

6. How many books have you written?

Four – Three "Cynthia's Attic" books and one women's humor/lifestyle book, "WOOF: Women Only Over Fifty," due to be released in the spring of 2008.

7. What are the titles of your books and what genres are they?

"Cynthia's Attic: The Missing Locket, Book One" (young reader/fantasy)

"Cynthia's Attic: The Magic Medallion, Book Two" (young reader/fantasy)

"Cynthia's Attic: Curse of the Bayou, Book Three" (young reader/fantasy)

"Women Only Over Fifty (WOOF), (women's lifestyle/humor) Spring 2008

8. How do you decide on that topic or genre?

I didn't really choose the young reader genre. It chose me. I began writing a memoir of my childhood and it turned into a 33,000 word fantasy/fiction. I was just beginning to explore the possibility of getting published and wasn't writing for a specific audience.

9. How do you manage to keep yourself focused and on track?

Quite simply, I don't! Each morning I have to make a list of the things I want (need) to accomplish. Otherwise, I get distracted very easily. And, at this late date, I don't see myself changing. LOL!

10. Do you write to make money or for the love of writing?

If I were writing for the money, I would've quit long ago! That said, if I hadn't made one cent off my "Cynthia's Attic" series, it would've been worth writing. I've enjoyed every word. To be able to go back in time and interact, albeit fictionally, with my parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents, has been an amazing experience. I also receive and answer numerous e-mails from young readers?a priceless experience.

11. What are some traditional methods of marketing you have used?

I send out press releases, not only when my books are released, but any time I have special news to report. I also design my own postcards with blurbs from all three books on the back. I mail these to libraries and book stores. I have my own website (which I update regularly) and not only have my own blog (Cynthia's Attic Blog), I blog on six others, including MySpace and JacketFlap.

12. What are some unique methods of marketing you have used?

I write short, informational stories and post them on the Internet on Notepad, Article Beat, etc. I also interact with libraries and librarians on MySpace and JacketFlap. I make sure they know about me and my books, and that I keep up with what's happening in their libraries. I also invite authors of YR/YA books to be guest bloggers. I just completed a blogging week with Kirby Larson and her Newbery Honor Book, Hattie Big Sky. We had a lot of fun and gained amazing perspective.

13. Do you sell through a website? If so, what’s the address? If not, why not?

I don't sell directly through my website; however, anyone can e-mail and request a signed book(s). I haven't gotten the nerve to actually sell online. I have so many links to online bookstores on my website that I really don't see the need.

14. Where can people order your books?

Anywhere! The best place to find buy links is through my website: www.marycunninghambooks.com

The series can also be ordered through Booksense (independent bookstores), Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Powells, BAMM, Fictionwise, etc, and are available through all major distributors.

15. What format are your books – e-book, print, audio etc?

Print and e-books (multi formats).

16. Will you write more books?

I've been asked to write "Cynthia's Attic: Book Four" so, to answer your question…yes! I'm also working on an adult time-travel, and some YR short stories.

17. What do you have in the works now?

My co-writers (Diana Black and Melinda Richarz Bailey) and I are putting the finishing touches on "WOOF." I'm also working on an adult novel titled, "For the Life of Claire."

18. What does the future hold for you and your books?

Oprah? NY Times Bestseller list? Disney movies? One can dream, right? My immediate wish is for my books to open up a dialogue between grandchildren and grandparents; that young writers will find inspiration in stories about the childhood days of their grandparents, and that grandparents will enjoy the books, too.

19. What was the most successful thing you did to promote your books?

I believe online interviews and blogs are my most successful promotional tool.

What was the least successful thing you did to promote your books?

I view all promotion as positive; some just work better than others.

This interview was done in conjunction with Nikki Leigh. For more information, visit – www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm.

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

Promotional Interview with Anne Carter

Your Name: Anne Carter

1. Where you are from and where are you now?

Although I was born in the Midwest, I have lived in So. California, where I still reside, nearly all my life.

2. How did you get started writing?

I took a creative writing class in middle school, and have been writing ever since. My first publishing credits were for short stories and poetry.

3. What do you do when you are not writing?

I dabble in photo editing and art, I own a small business and my number one job is parenting my three kids.

4. What would readers like to know about you?

That I am a pretty average person—except that I get asked if I personally research the romantic intimacy scenes in my books…

Seriously, like someone else I know, I am a lighthouse nut and find them enchanting and inspiring. I collect them, visit them, write about them. I even lived in one for a brief period while writing POINT SURRENDER.

5. What inspired your first book?

My first book, STARCROSSED HEARTS, is about the entertainment industry—movie stars, if you will. Since I grew up a stone’s throw from Hollywood, I was very focused on the movie and TV business. As an adolescent, I used to fantasize about being an “extra” on a movie production. That’s exactly where that first book starts.

6. How many books have you written?

Five published, three in process.

7. What are the titles of your books and what genres are they?

STARCROSSED HEARTS, contemporary romance; A HERO’S PROMISE, (sequel) romantic suspense; IN TOO DEEP, contemporary romance; POINT SURRENDER, romantic paranormal mystery; and, writing as Pam Ripling, LOCKER SHOCK!, middle grade mystery.

8. How do you decide on that topic or genre?

I think most writers write in the genre they enjoy reading. My middle grade reader was inspired by my sons when they were in junior high school.

9. How do you manage to keep yourself focused and on track?

Who said I did?

Actually, when I am writing a story and it becomes unfocused, I usually discover I’ve made a wrong turn and must backtrack to where I fell off-track.

10. Do you write to make money or for the love of writing?

Hopefully, one leads to the other. I write because I have to. The money I make is a lovely side benefit. I wish I could say it was enough to be truly motivating…

11. What are some traditional methods of marketing you have used?

Print advertising; direct mail (postcards); press releases; personal appearances; radio interviews.

12. What are some unique methods of marketing you have used?

Appearing/speaking in non-traditional venues, such as coffee houses, wine shops, dinner assembly stores; on-line events.

13. Do you sell through a website? If so, what’s the address? If not, why not?

My own website is located at www.BeaconStreetBooks.com.

14. Where can people order your books?

Print copies through Amazon.com at:

http://www.amazon.com/Point-Surrender-Anne-Carter/dp/1590805143/ref=pd_b...

E-Books available at:

http://www.fictionwise.com/eBooks/AnneCartereBooks.htm

15. What format are your books – e-book, print, audio etc?

My books are available in print and e-book (multiple formats)

16. Will you write more books?

I don’t see an end to it anytime soon.

17. What do you have in the works now?

CAPE SEDUCTION, romantic paranormal mystery;

THE GYPSY IN ME, contemporary romance (3rd in the StarCrossed trilogy)

OLD ENOUGH, middle grade reader

18. What does the future hold for you and your books?

I hope to be able to devote more time to my writing career in the coming year. More time to write and promote. I also feel the publishing industry is at a crossroads, is evolving. I believe whole-heartedly in the future of the electronic book reader. It’s taken much longer to “catch on” than I thought it would, but it hasn’t gone away. I personally read primarily e-books.

19. What was the most successful thing you did to promote your books?

Develop an on-line presence through such avenues as MySpace, Author’s Den, my own website, and various romance reader sites.

20. What was the least successful thing you did to promote your books?

Probably print advertising, where I did not secure repetitive exposure in the same media.

This interview was done in conjunction with Nikki Leigh. For more information, visit – www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm.