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.
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
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.
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.
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.
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.
Monday, July 28, 2008
Promotional Interview with Judy Gregerson
Judy Gregerson was born at the very end of Long Island on a very warm and sunny summer day. Everyone was happy she made it because the cord was wrapped around her neck and there were a few scary moments before she popped out.
The rest of her life went a little better. She grew up in a town that shut down at 5 p.m. and got out as soon as she found a college that would accept her. That was SUNY Oswego and she attended school with famous people like Bruce Coville, Al Roker, and Jerry Seinfeld. Ok, only Bruce was there at the time and she didn’t know him. But it makes for good copy.
After college, Judy worked as a newpaper copy editor, a marketing assistant at Viking/Penguin, in the advertising department of The New York Times, and then had various jobs at an ad agency, doing public relations, and the likes. Finally, she worked herself into an ulcer and moved to the west coast.
Her first book was published in 1980 by Doubleday (a memoir) and she was named in Who’s Who in America that year. It really didn’t help her any. In fact, no one seems to remember.
Judy now lives in the Seattle area with her two daughters, husband, dog, cat, frog, gerbil, and two mice. She is currently seen doing yard work and getting the mold off her windows.
Your Name: Judy Gregerson
1. Where you are from and where are you now?
I grew up on the eastern end of Long Island but I live in the Pacific Northwest now.
2. How did you get started writing?
I played around with writing when I was a kid and then again in my early twenties, but I got serious about it when I was about 25 and started working on my first book.
3. What do you do when you are not writing?
I do a lot of research. I’ve also gone back to college to finish a new degree. In the summer, I travel a little. I read, watch TV, and hang out with my husband and my kids.
4. What would readers like to know about you?
Well, I take very seriously what I write and I only write about the things that are important to me. I try to write them in a way that everyone will see a part of him or herself in the character because I believe that emotions are universal and we all experience the same emotions, but to different degrees.
5. What inspired your first book?
I made a friend in NYC who had published a book and he convinced me that I could, too. I think that I needed someone to believe in me back then and when he did, I decided that I could do it. So, I sat down and started doing audio tapes which I later transcribed into my first draft.
6. How many books have you written?
I have two published books and probably 8 unpublished.
7. What are the titles of your books and what genres are they?
Save Me! A Young Woman’s Journey Through Schizophrenia to Health, Christian, and Bad Girls Club, Young Adult/crossover.
8. How do you decide on that topic or genre?
I consider myself a coming of age writer because all my books are about that time in a person’s life. I feel most comfortable there, with a main character who’s about 17-21. The topic is usually something that has puzzled me or something I want to explore in greater detail and make more accessible to people. With Bad Girls Club, I wrote about parentification. Hardly anyone knows what it is, but they recognize it when they see it and they’ve probably seen it from time to time in their life. The idea that children can reverse roles with their parents and become the parent fascinates me. In fact, any kind of role reversal fascinates me, but I thought that readers would find it interesting, too. Also, I like to look at things from a new angle and bring something to the table that a reader wouldn’t have seen before. I think I’ve been successful in doing that.
9. How do you manage to keep yourself focused and on track?
Ha! It can be hard. I have so much going on in my life right now that I’m probably horribly out of focus. But I’m also good at being disciplined when I have to, so if I have something to do, I can sit down and get it done. When I’m writing, I fully thrust myself into it and I can work 10-12 hours a day for 3-4 months. Then I pull away and digest what I’ve written before I go back to it.
10. Do you write to make money or for the love of writing?
Oh, it’s probably a bit of both. I enjoy the writing immensely. But who wouldn’t want to make money at it? In fact, I think that most people, if they were honest, would admit that they want to make money at it, even if only a little. I think an artist should be paid a fair wage. I have no problem with that.
11. What are some traditional methods of marketing you have used?
I’ve used direct mail and email. I also belong to an authors’ marketing cooperative and did the AuthorBuzz program with M.J. Rose.
12. What are some unique methods of marketing you have used?
I worked hard to figure out my niche markets and I contacted people who were movers and shakers in those areas to get endorsements and reviews. That has paid off for me big time because my niche markets have grown and are bigger than I thought they’d be.
13. Do you sell through a website? If so, what’s the address? If not, why not?
I’m not self published, so I don’t sell through my website. For one, I don’t want to get involved with the tax stuff. And my books are available on Amazon and will be in Borders and Barnes and Noble, so there’s no need to buy through me. People can learn more about my book at www.judygregerson.com and I have links to an independent bookstore on my page, as well as Amazon and B&N.
14. Where can people order your books?
Amazon, B&N, chains stores, indy bookstores. Basically, anyone who sells books can get mine. Bad Girls Club will be in the big chains this spring, so that would also be a good place to look for it.
15. What format are your books – e-book, print, audio etc?
Right now, just print.
16. Will you write more books?
I have a few in the works that are in various stages of undone. Sometimes I work on a book for several years, picking it up for a while and then leaving it for a time, then going back. I’ve never just written something, revised it, and called it done. My stories seem to require more time and depth and the more I revise, the more I see how I need to revise more. It’s a vicious circle really, but I do love to revise.
17. What do you have in the works now?
I have a coming of age story about a girl whose mother deserts her in a grocery store parking lot and leaves her behind with a very eccentric extended family and never returns. I have another book done about a girl who lives in a trailer park and who’s trying to find her place in the world.
18. What does the future hold for you and your books?
Well, I am hoping that Bad Girls Club will reach the teen and adult audiences who really need to read it and that I build a strong readership for my next book. People who have read Bad Girls Club ask me when my next book is coming out, so I need to get that sold and out there so I can get to work on the next.
19. What was the most successful thing you did to promote your books?
I think that sending out ARCs really helped a lot. I was fortunate in that I had enough to send to librarians and reviewers (online) and that so many of them were very generous in reviewing it quickly and gave it great reviews. That created a momentum and buzz for my launch, which was quite successful. Bad Girls Club stayed in the top 10 on 5 Amazon Bestseller Lists (New Releases) for almost 3 months.
20. What was the least successful thing you did to promote your books?
Oh, I had a few media contacts that really didn’t work out, but that kind of stuff is so iffy anyway. You hope that the media bites. Sometimes they do, sometimes they don’t. I did have one large national newsletter go out with a blurb about my book but they failed to mention my name, email, website address or anything else that would have made it possible for them to find the book and then when I discovered the error, they wouldn’t correct it. That was pretty sad, but stuff like that happens.
Synopsis for Bad Girls Club
Destiny has a secret. She’s been told not to tell anyone what happened to her, her little sister, and her mother at Crater Lake. Or that her mother is mentally ill and hits her little sister.
But the secret is killing her and every day she remembers the bad thing she did at Crater Lake. Her boyfriend, Joshua, and best friend, Chloe, don’t understand. When she pulls away from them, and refuses to leave the house, they don’t realize that she’s trying to fix the mistake she made. They only know that she’s slipping away.
But trying to hold her family together doesn’t work. Destiny feels a darkness in the house and when Mom gets out of the psychiatric hospital, it takes over. First it attacks her little sister, and then it comes for her.
Destiny has to choose whether to expose the lies and the darkness or tell the truth about what happened at Crater Lake.
Can the truth really set her free? Or will she remain what her mother has always called her--a bad girl?
This interview was done in conjunction with Nikki Leigh. For more information, visit – www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm.
The rest of her life went a little better. She grew up in a town that shut down at 5 p.m. and got out as soon as she found a college that would accept her. That was SUNY Oswego and she attended school with famous people like Bruce Coville, Al Roker, and Jerry Seinfeld. Ok, only Bruce was there at the time and she didn’t know him. But it makes for good copy.
After college, Judy worked as a newpaper copy editor, a marketing assistant at Viking/Penguin, in the advertising department of The New York Times, and then had various jobs at an ad agency, doing public relations, and the likes. Finally, she worked herself into an ulcer and moved to the west coast.
Her first book was published in 1980 by Doubleday (a memoir) and she was named in Who’s Who in America that year. It really didn’t help her any. In fact, no one seems to remember.
Judy now lives in the Seattle area with her two daughters, husband, dog, cat, frog, gerbil, and two mice. She is currently seen doing yard work and getting the mold off her windows.
Your Name: Judy Gregerson
1. Where you are from and where are you now?
I grew up on the eastern end of Long Island but I live in the Pacific Northwest now.
2. How did you get started writing?
I played around with writing when I was a kid and then again in my early twenties, but I got serious about it when I was about 25 and started working on my first book.
3. What do you do when you are not writing?
I do a lot of research. I’ve also gone back to college to finish a new degree. In the summer, I travel a little. I read, watch TV, and hang out with my husband and my kids.
4. What would readers like to know about you?
Well, I take very seriously what I write and I only write about the things that are important to me. I try to write them in a way that everyone will see a part of him or herself in the character because I believe that emotions are universal and we all experience the same emotions, but to different degrees.
5. What inspired your first book?
I made a friend in NYC who had published a book and he convinced me that I could, too. I think that I needed someone to believe in me back then and when he did, I decided that I could do it. So, I sat down and started doing audio tapes which I later transcribed into my first draft.
6. How many books have you written?
I have two published books and probably 8 unpublished.
7. What are the titles of your books and what genres are they?
Save Me! A Young Woman’s Journey Through Schizophrenia to Health, Christian, and Bad Girls Club, Young Adult/crossover.
8. How do you decide on that topic or genre?
I consider myself a coming of age writer because all my books are about that time in a person’s life. I feel most comfortable there, with a main character who’s about 17-21. The topic is usually something that has puzzled me or something I want to explore in greater detail and make more accessible to people. With Bad Girls Club, I wrote about parentification. Hardly anyone knows what it is, but they recognize it when they see it and they’ve probably seen it from time to time in their life. The idea that children can reverse roles with their parents and become the parent fascinates me. In fact, any kind of role reversal fascinates me, but I thought that readers would find it interesting, too. Also, I like to look at things from a new angle and bring something to the table that a reader wouldn’t have seen before. I think I’ve been successful in doing that.
9. How do you manage to keep yourself focused and on track?
Ha! It can be hard. I have so much going on in my life right now that I’m probably horribly out of focus. But I’m also good at being disciplined when I have to, so if I have something to do, I can sit down and get it done. When I’m writing, I fully thrust myself into it and I can work 10-12 hours a day for 3-4 months. Then I pull away and digest what I’ve written before I go back to it.
10. Do you write to make money or for the love of writing?
Oh, it’s probably a bit of both. I enjoy the writing immensely. But who wouldn’t want to make money at it? In fact, I think that most people, if they were honest, would admit that they want to make money at it, even if only a little. I think an artist should be paid a fair wage. I have no problem with that.
11. What are some traditional methods of marketing you have used?
I’ve used direct mail and email. I also belong to an authors’ marketing cooperative and did the AuthorBuzz program with M.J. Rose.
12. What are some unique methods of marketing you have used?
I worked hard to figure out my niche markets and I contacted people who were movers and shakers in those areas to get endorsements and reviews. That has paid off for me big time because my niche markets have grown and are bigger than I thought they’d be.
13. Do you sell through a website? If so, what’s the address? If not, why not?
I’m not self published, so I don’t sell through my website. For one, I don’t want to get involved with the tax stuff. And my books are available on Amazon and will be in Borders and Barnes and Noble, so there’s no need to buy through me. People can learn more about my book at www.judygregerson.com and I have links to an independent bookstore on my page, as well as Amazon and B&N.
14. Where can people order your books?
Amazon, B&N, chains stores, indy bookstores. Basically, anyone who sells books can get mine. Bad Girls Club will be in the big chains this spring, so that would also be a good place to look for it.
15. What format are your books – e-book, print, audio etc?
Right now, just print.
16. Will you write more books?
I have a few in the works that are in various stages of undone. Sometimes I work on a book for several years, picking it up for a while and then leaving it for a time, then going back. I’ve never just written something, revised it, and called it done. My stories seem to require more time and depth and the more I revise, the more I see how I need to revise more. It’s a vicious circle really, but I do love to revise.
17. What do you have in the works now?
I have a coming of age story about a girl whose mother deserts her in a grocery store parking lot and leaves her behind with a very eccentric extended family and never returns. I have another book done about a girl who lives in a trailer park and who’s trying to find her place in the world.
18. What does the future hold for you and your books?
Well, I am hoping that Bad Girls Club will reach the teen and adult audiences who really need to read it and that I build a strong readership for my next book. People who have read Bad Girls Club ask me when my next book is coming out, so I need to get that sold and out there so I can get to work on the next.
19. What was the most successful thing you did to promote your books?
I think that sending out ARCs really helped a lot. I was fortunate in that I had enough to send to librarians and reviewers (online) and that so many of them were very generous in reviewing it quickly and gave it great reviews. That created a momentum and buzz for my launch, which was quite successful. Bad Girls Club stayed in the top 10 on 5 Amazon Bestseller Lists (New Releases) for almost 3 months.
20. What was the least successful thing you did to promote your books?
Oh, I had a few media contacts that really didn’t work out, but that kind of stuff is so iffy anyway. You hope that the media bites. Sometimes they do, sometimes they don’t. I did have one large national newsletter go out with a blurb about my book but they failed to mention my name, email, website address or anything else that would have made it possible for them to find the book and then when I discovered the error, they wouldn’t correct it. That was pretty sad, but stuff like that happens.
Synopsis for Bad Girls Club
Destiny has a secret. She’s been told not to tell anyone what happened to her, her little sister, and her mother at Crater Lake. Or that her mother is mentally ill and hits her little sister.
But the secret is killing her and every day she remembers the bad thing she did at Crater Lake. Her boyfriend, Joshua, and best friend, Chloe, don’t understand. When she pulls away from them, and refuses to leave the house, they don’t realize that she’s trying to fix the mistake she made. They only know that she’s slipping away.
But trying to hold her family together doesn’t work. Destiny feels a darkness in the house and when Mom gets out of the psychiatric hospital, it takes over. First it attacks her little sister, and then it comes for her.
Destiny has to choose whether to expose the lies and the darkness or tell the truth about what happened at Crater Lake.
Can the truth really set her free? Or will she remain what her mother has always called her--a bad girl?
This interview was done in conjunction with Nikki Leigh. For more information, visit – www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Promotional Interview with Marilyn Meredith
Marilyn Meredith is the author of Smell of Death. This is a bit about her latest book ----
A missing child, strange burglaries, the murder of a mother and her daughter disrupt the peaceful beach community of Rocky Bluff. Officer Stacey Wilbur assists Doug Milligan with the investigations and she finds herself breaking her long-standing rule of never dating anyone who works for Rocky Bluff P.D.
PROMOTIONAL INTERVIEW WITH MARILYN MEREDITH
You have been invited to share your promotional experience with others who visit the Inspired Author Self Promotion web pages. Inspired Author is a great resource for writers who want to learn more about writing, freelancing, working at home, promotion and much more. We invite you to visit www.inspiredauthor.com/promotion.
Your Name: Marilyn Meredith (also F. M. Meredith)
1. Where you are from and where are you now?
I grew up in Los Angeles CA, married a sailor and traveled to Virginia and Maryland, lived many years in Oxnard CA near the Port Hueneme Seabee
Base, and now we're in Springville CA which is located in the foothills of
The Southern Sierra.
2. How did you get started writing?
I drew stories even before I could read or write, thanks to my mom listening
to soap operas on the radio. I've been writing stories ever since I knew how.
In junior high, I wrote and printed and sold my own magazine. Also wrote plays for the neighborhood kids to star in.
3. What do you do when you are not writing?
Most of my day is spent in front of the computer. If I'm not actually writing, I'm doing promotion. I also do writing for others--including ghost writing. By
evening, I'm ready to read or watch TV. My husband and I try to go to a
movie every week or so. I have a big family, so I do spend time with them
kids and grandkids and greats when possible. I'm also active in my church.
4. What would readers like to know about you?
I'm one of these people who never gives up, despite many, many rejections
over the years, two publishers dying who were publishing my books, getting
tangled up with a couple of crooked publishers, I kept going.
5. What inspired your first book?
My first book was an historical family saga based on my family's genealogy.
My sister did the genealogy and I was so fascinated by what she found out and all the unanswered questions, I decided to some research into the places and times the family was there and try to figure out why they moved from here to there. It was fascinating--and I wrote a book about each side of my family.
6. How many books have you written?
That I'm not sure about. What I do know is I have over 20 published books, and two that I have contracts with my publisher.
7. What are the titles of your books and what genres are they? I have so many I'll just tell you about the latest ones. Anyone who'd like to know all the titles is welcome to go to my website: http://fictionforyou.com The very latest is Smell of Death, in the Rocky Bluff P.D. series written under the name F. M. Meredith. The latest in my Deputy Tempe Crabtree mystery series is Judgment Fire, and that one is written by Marilyn Meredith. These are crime fiction or mystery
8. How do you decide on that topic or genre?
Mysteries are what I like to read so that's what I've been focusing on.
9. How do you manage to keep yourself focused and on track? This is something I've never had a problem with. I raised five kids and wrote despite whatever was going on--and there was always plenty going on. I wrote when I babysat grandkids. I wrote when I was caring for six developmentally disabled women. I can be interrupted and go write back to whatever I was in the middle of doing.
10. Do you write to make money or for the love of writing? If I were writing to make money, I'd have quit long ago. I have to write and that's why I keep doing it. I always hope someone will enjoy reading my work as much as I enjoyed writing it.
11. What are some traditional methods of marketing you have used? Book signings, library talks, presentations to service and women's groups, mailings of postcards and letters, bookmarks, my website, talking about my books on the lists I belong to.
12. What are some unique methods of marketing you have used? I always have a book launching in my hometown. I think that Virtual book tours are unique though this is my second one. I do several blogs on a regular basis. I sell books at craft fairs.
13. Do you sell through a website? Yes. If so, what's the address? http://fictionforyou.com
14. Where can people order your books? From the above website and Amazon. com and if you want an e-book of Smell of Death, go to http://www.tigresspress.com
15. What format are your books - e-book, print, audio etc? All of my books are in print as trade paperbacks and also as e-books.
16. Will you write more books? Of course. I'm about half way through a new one.
17. What do you have in the works now? I expect a new Deputy Tempe Crabtree mystery to be out in August of this year. And of course, I'm busy promoting.
18. What does the future hold for you and your books? I have no idea. I know what I have planned--but I really can't see into the future. My husband and I will be attending Love is Murder in Chicago, EpiCon in Portland, Public Safety Writers Conference in April and Mayhem in the Midlands in May.
19. What was the most successful thing you did to promote your books? One time I was invited to speak at an AAWU luncheon along with several other authors. The others were all young and quite famous. I told my husband the only way I could compete was to be funny. I was and after the luncheon everyone rushed to my table and I sold over $800 worth of books.
20. What was the least successful thing you did to promote your books? Bookstore signings seem to be the least profitable. Sometimes it's difficult to get paid. However, anytime you can meet people and get your name out there it is worth it.
This interview was done in conjunction with Nikki Leigh. For more information, visit - www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm.
Would you like to read a bit of the book? Here is an excerpt from Chapter 1 ---- visit http://startatbeginning.blogspot.com/2008/02/smell-of-death-by-marilyn-meredith.html
A missing child, strange burglaries, the murder of a mother and her daughter disrupt the peaceful beach community of Rocky Bluff. Officer Stacey Wilbur assists Doug Milligan with the investigations and she finds herself breaking her long-standing rule of never dating anyone who works for Rocky Bluff P.D.
PROMOTIONAL INTERVIEW WITH MARILYN MEREDITH
You have been invited to share your promotional experience with others who visit the Inspired Author Self Promotion web pages. Inspired Author is a great resource for writers who want to learn more about writing, freelancing, working at home, promotion and much more. We invite you to visit www.inspiredauthor.com/promotion.
Your Name: Marilyn Meredith (also F. M. Meredith)
1. Where you are from and where are you now?
I grew up in Los Angeles CA, married a sailor and traveled to Virginia and Maryland, lived many years in Oxnard CA near the Port Hueneme Seabee
Base, and now we're in Springville CA which is located in the foothills of
The Southern Sierra.
2. How did you get started writing?
I drew stories even before I could read or write, thanks to my mom listening
to soap operas on the radio. I've been writing stories ever since I knew how.
In junior high, I wrote and printed and sold my own magazine. Also wrote plays for the neighborhood kids to star in.
3. What do you do when you are not writing?
Most of my day is spent in front of the computer. If I'm not actually writing, I'm doing promotion. I also do writing for others--including ghost writing. By
evening, I'm ready to read or watch TV. My husband and I try to go to a
movie every week or so. I have a big family, so I do spend time with them
kids and grandkids and greats when possible. I'm also active in my church.
4. What would readers like to know about you?
I'm one of these people who never gives up, despite many, many rejections
over the years, two publishers dying who were publishing my books, getting
tangled up with a couple of crooked publishers, I kept going.
5. What inspired your first book?
My first book was an historical family saga based on my family's genealogy.
My sister did the genealogy and I was so fascinated by what she found out and all the unanswered questions, I decided to some research into the places and times the family was there and try to figure out why they moved from here to there. It was fascinating--and I wrote a book about each side of my family.
6. How many books have you written?
That I'm not sure about. What I do know is I have over 20 published books, and two that I have contracts with my publisher.
7. What are the titles of your books and what genres are they? I have so many I'll just tell you about the latest ones. Anyone who'd like to know all the titles is welcome to go to my website: http://fictionforyou.com The very latest is Smell of Death, in the Rocky Bluff P.D. series written under the name F. M. Meredith. The latest in my Deputy Tempe Crabtree mystery series is Judgment Fire, and that one is written by Marilyn Meredith. These are crime fiction or mystery
8. How do you decide on that topic or genre?
Mysteries are what I like to read so that's what I've been focusing on.
9. How do you manage to keep yourself focused and on track? This is something I've never had a problem with. I raised five kids and wrote despite whatever was going on--and there was always plenty going on. I wrote when I babysat grandkids. I wrote when I was caring for six developmentally disabled women. I can be interrupted and go write back to whatever I was in the middle of doing.
10. Do you write to make money or for the love of writing? If I were writing to make money, I'd have quit long ago. I have to write and that's why I keep doing it. I always hope someone will enjoy reading my work as much as I enjoyed writing it.
11. What are some traditional methods of marketing you have used? Book signings, library talks, presentations to service and women's groups, mailings of postcards and letters, bookmarks, my website, talking about my books on the lists I belong to.
12. What are some unique methods of marketing you have used? I always have a book launching in my hometown. I think that Virtual book tours are unique though this is my second one. I do several blogs on a regular basis. I sell books at craft fairs.
13. Do you sell through a website? Yes. If so, what's the address? http://fictionforyou.com
14. Where can people order your books? From the above website and Amazon. com and if you want an e-book of Smell of Death, go to http://www.tigresspress.com
15. What format are your books - e-book, print, audio etc? All of my books are in print as trade paperbacks and also as e-books.
16. Will you write more books? Of course. I'm about half way through a new one.
17. What do you have in the works now? I expect a new Deputy Tempe Crabtree mystery to be out in August of this year. And of course, I'm busy promoting.
18. What does the future hold for you and your books? I have no idea. I know what I have planned--but I really can't see into the future. My husband and I will be attending Love is Murder in Chicago, EpiCon in Portland, Public Safety Writers Conference in April and Mayhem in the Midlands in May.
19. What was the most successful thing you did to promote your books? One time I was invited to speak at an AAWU luncheon along with several other authors. The others were all young and quite famous. I told my husband the only way I could compete was to be funny. I was and after the luncheon everyone rushed to my table and I sold over $800 worth of books.
20. What was the least successful thing you did to promote your books? Bookstore signings seem to be the least profitable. Sometimes it's difficult to get paid. However, anytime you can meet people and get your name out there it is worth it.
This interview was done in conjunction with Nikki Leigh. For more information, visit - www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm.
Would you like to read a bit of the book? Here is an excerpt from Chapter 1 ---- visit http://startatbeginning.blogspot.com/2008/02/smell-of-death-by-marilyn-meredith.html
Promotional Interview with LaConnie Taylor-Jones
Your Name: LaConnie Taylor-Jones
1. Where you are from and where are you now?
I'm a native Memphian and for the last twenty-four years, I've lived in Northern California.
2. How did you get started writing?
The one thing that catapulted me into the writing world was my husband. In the spring of '03, I was in bed reading a novel that was horrible. It was pass midnight and I think my husband was tired of hearing me whine about the book because he said, “Honey, if you can write a better book, do it, but baby, turn out the lights.” I took him up on the challenged and I've never looked back.
3. What do you do when you are not writing?
I'm trying to successfully juggle the responsibilities of wife, mother, and consultant.
4. What would readers like to know about you?
I want readers to know that I take my writing very seriously and will give them nothing less than the very best story I can possibly write.
5. What inspired your first book?
The inspiration for this story came from my experience as a health educator. For the last fifteen years, I've taught health education primarily to African American women in community-based settings. Oftentimes, before I can lecture on the risk factors associated with chronic diseases disproportionally impacting African Americans, I have to deal with the soci-economic deterrents women face. Unfortunately, abusive relationships top the list.
6. How many books have you written?
I've completed two full length novels and I'm just about to wrap up my third.
7. What are the titles of your books and what genres are they?
When I'm With You is the title of my debut novel. My second book, which is scheduled to release April 1st is entitled, When A Man Loves A Woman. We've selected the title for the third book and it's, If I Were Your Woman.
8. How do you decide on that topic or genre?
The romance genre chose me years ago! In fact, I flunked an organic chemistry midterm after staying up all night to read my first romance novel. The topics for my stories come from my experiences as a health educator.
9. How do you manage to keep yourself focused and on track?
I set goals for myself whether personal or professional and use The SMART Goal Setting Technique to keep me on track:
S = Specific
M = Measurable
A = Attainable
R = Realistic
T = Timely
10. Do you write to make money or for the love of writing?
Right now, I definitely do it for the love of writing. However, I'm preparing myself so that I can make a comfortable living from writing.
11. What are some traditional methods of marketing you have used?
My marketing covers a broad spectrum of promotion techniques including: book signings, blog touring, and book club appearances, to name a few. So far, all are working very well.
12. What are some unique methods of marketing you have used?
Virtual touring is a new marketing concept I'm embarking upon and I must admit I'm enjoying it a lot!!
13. Do you sell through a website? If so, what's the address? If not, why not?
No, my book is distributed by Kensington Books so there isn't a need to sell it via my website.
14. Where can people order your books?
Readers can find my book at all of the major bookstores and on-line at Amazon.com, Barnes and Nobles.com, Books-A-Million.com, to name a few.
15. What format are your books - e-book, print, audio etc?
My books are in mass market print.
16. Will you write more books?
Absolutely!!! There are simply too many stories inside of me that need to be told for me NOT to write.
17. What do you have in the works now?
Right now, I have two other Works in Progress that are not connecting stories, so I plan to stay pretty busy in 2008.
18. What does the future hold for you and your books?
I'm truly looking forward to the years ahead!! My greatest desire is to continue to develop dynamic characters and write the stories from my heart.
19. What was the most successful thing you did to promote your books?
Partnering with experienced authors in the romance genre.
20. What was the least successful thing you did to promote your books?
Hmmm, so far, I've done it all and it's been successful!! However, if I try something in the future and it doesn't work, I'll stop back by and share it.
Check out LaConnie's website at http://www.laconnietaylorjones.com/ to see how you can win a $100 gift certificate to Amazon.com!
This interview was done in conjunction with Nikki Leigh. For more information, visit - www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm.
1. Where you are from and where are you now?
I'm a native Memphian and for the last twenty-four years, I've lived in Northern California.
2. How did you get started writing?
The one thing that catapulted me into the writing world was my husband. In the spring of '03, I was in bed reading a novel that was horrible. It was pass midnight and I think my husband was tired of hearing me whine about the book because he said, “Honey, if you can write a better book, do it, but baby, turn out the lights.” I took him up on the challenged and I've never looked back.
3. What do you do when you are not writing?
I'm trying to successfully juggle the responsibilities of wife, mother, and consultant.
4. What would readers like to know about you?
I want readers to know that I take my writing very seriously and will give them nothing less than the very best story I can possibly write.
5. What inspired your first book?
The inspiration for this story came from my experience as a health educator. For the last fifteen years, I've taught health education primarily to African American women in community-based settings. Oftentimes, before I can lecture on the risk factors associated with chronic diseases disproportionally impacting African Americans, I have to deal with the soci-economic deterrents women face. Unfortunately, abusive relationships top the list.
6. How many books have you written?
I've completed two full length novels and I'm just about to wrap up my third.
7. What are the titles of your books and what genres are they?
When I'm With You is the title of my debut novel. My second book, which is scheduled to release April 1st is entitled, When A Man Loves A Woman. We've selected the title for the third book and it's, If I Were Your Woman.
8. How do you decide on that topic or genre?
The romance genre chose me years ago! In fact, I flunked an organic chemistry midterm after staying up all night to read my first romance novel. The topics for my stories come from my experiences as a health educator.
9. How do you manage to keep yourself focused and on track?
I set goals for myself whether personal or professional and use The SMART Goal Setting Technique to keep me on track:
S = Specific
M = Measurable
A = Attainable
R = Realistic
T = Timely
10. Do you write to make money or for the love of writing?
Right now, I definitely do it for the love of writing. However, I'm preparing myself so that I can make a comfortable living from writing.
11. What are some traditional methods of marketing you have used?
My marketing covers a broad spectrum of promotion techniques including: book signings, blog touring, and book club appearances, to name a few. So far, all are working very well.
12. What are some unique methods of marketing you have used?
Virtual touring is a new marketing concept I'm embarking upon and I must admit I'm enjoying it a lot!!
13. Do you sell through a website? If so, what's the address? If not, why not?
No, my book is distributed by Kensington Books so there isn't a need to sell it via my website.
14. Where can people order your books?
Readers can find my book at all of the major bookstores and on-line at Amazon.com, Barnes and Nobles.com, Books-A-Million.com, to name a few.
15. What format are your books - e-book, print, audio etc?
My books are in mass market print.
16. Will you write more books?
Absolutely!!! There are simply too many stories inside of me that need to be told for me NOT to write.
17. What do you have in the works now?
Right now, I have two other Works in Progress that are not connecting stories, so I plan to stay pretty busy in 2008.
18. What does the future hold for you and your books?
I'm truly looking forward to the years ahead!! My greatest desire is to continue to develop dynamic characters and write the stories from my heart.
19. What was the most successful thing you did to promote your books?
Partnering with experienced authors in the romance genre.
20. What was the least successful thing you did to promote your books?
Hmmm, so far, I've done it all and it's been successful!! However, if I try something in the future and it doesn't work, I'll stop back by and share it.
Check out LaConnie's website at http://www.laconnietaylorjones.com/ to see how you can win a $100 gift certificate to Amazon.com!
This interview was done in conjunction with Nikki Leigh. For more information, visit - www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm.
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