tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74876460813321670312024-03-05T18:38:55.773-08:00A Musing Alexisthe real life adventures & wild musings of a young writerAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05634264247783669380noreply@blogger.comBlogger633125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7487646081332167031.post-27845724922419700832015-08-12T14:54:00.002-07:002015-08-12T14:57:54.688-07:00I'm moving!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgST-I44LsZlEjTmAklUs0pxHpwruIDGP0PQmWBZ_as2MHXY44MySFBOhyvGj7N9Nq6G0D8Y4wkuEYNdh-FILdq74D9rSUm5AhCbbh2lSVI9ExEdEcK0yjQxNogXDQ-5C0nwZzSTlGzUw4/s1600/IMAG0248.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgST-I44LsZlEjTmAklUs0pxHpwruIDGP0PQmWBZ_as2MHXY44MySFBOhyvGj7N9Nq6G0D8Y4wkuEYNdh-FILdq74D9rSUm5AhCbbh2lSVI9ExEdEcK0yjQxNogXDQ-5C0nwZzSTlGzUw4/s320/IMAG0248.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm moving!</td></tr>
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This is my formal announcement: starting next Monday (August 17, 2015), I will blog on my author site, <a href="http://www.alexisdonkin.com/">www.alexisdonkin.com.</a> I will no longer post new items on this site, however I will continue to hold this site for archival purposes.<br />
<br />
<i>Note: My subscription button in the sidebar to the right will connect you to my active newsletter.</i><br />
<br />
<h3>
End of an Era</h3>
It's been five years since I began this blog and a lot has happened. I declared my intention to be a writer. I screwed up -<i> a lot</i>. I got better. I published a ton of books. I mastered many skills and continue to research, read, and try new things. And I keep getting better because of this.<br />
<br />
I am proud of what I have accomplished, and I feel it is time to graduate from my hobbyist beginnings into a more professional and streamlined approach. So come over to the site, check out all the goodies there, in addition to the blog, and sign up for my newsletter to get all the latest (as well as periodic subscriber only goodies).<br />
<br />
Thanks for sticking with me and sending good thoughts on this next phase of my professional journey.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05634264247783669380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7487646081332167031.post-78462372190003382422015-08-11T10:37:00.000-07:002015-08-11T10:37:02.325-07:00My Bucket List<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAfGygdemfRj3iI31wqUXGoDIQeu9jS5kvcS4UMUqs7YvZwfusgq7SFajVH_WcJYUaEXpfQVMHjHQqKMM_UmQgEop1A6gj2ad1M_aOsZeArUKoep5npEHS7kKb-8CAgwjkz9HKSuTDhqU/s1600/IMAG0338.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAfGygdemfRj3iI31wqUXGoDIQeu9jS5kvcS4UMUqs7YvZwfusgq7SFajVH_WcJYUaEXpfQVMHjHQqKMM_UmQgEop1A6gj2ad1M_aOsZeArUKoep5npEHS7kKb-8CAgwjkz9HKSuTDhqU/s320/IMAG0338.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sailing adventure options...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This is a short list of things I'd still like to do and haven't done. Some of them I could live without, but mostly I see these as things that I have to do at some point during my life. I left off my specific professional goals relating to books and speaking because I'd rather not publicize them at this point. I keep them on my mind daily, unlike these, which sort of simmer in the background.<br />
<br />
So in no particular order, my current bucket list: <br />
<ul>
<li>Japan - more cultural less urban (Shinto temples especially)</li>
<li>China - especially the Forbidden City and the Great Wall</li>
<li>Go to a Steelers game (in Pittsburgh would be ideal, but I would cross it off at an away game).</li>
<li>Italy - mostly for the high art areas (Venice, Florence, and Rome especially).</li>
<li>Cosplay Khloe Alwell at a comic convention.</li>
<li>France - mostly for high art, but local little known wine and artisan cheese pairings would be great.</li>
<li>Ireland - because, my people.</li>
<li>Greece - the Islands for fun as well as ancient sites for interest.</li>
<li>The Explorer Club - just to tour, I don't need to join.</li>
<li>Visit "the Farm" (Ina Mae's place)</li>
<li>Montreal - because it's supposed to be fantastic.</li>
<li>New Orleans - but not during Mardi Gras.</li>
<li>Yellow Stone - because overwhelming natural beauty.</li>
<li>Hawaii - same as above.</li>
<li>Raise a garden successfully</li>
<li>Own a successful small brick & mortar business</li>
<li>Raise some animals successfully (chickens, rabbits, and or goats/sheep)</li>
<li>Build an off-grid sustainable structure (work/studio, tiny house, and or main house).</li>
<li>Start and run a non-profit - education, mediation, or arts based</li>
<li>Go on a couple sailing trip - stopping in interesting ports.</li>
<li>Cross continental train trip (for the stories)</li>
</ul>
What's on your list? Leave a comment below!<br />
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Looking for something fun to read? Check out Lela Markham! She has two different series that look really fun - one dystopian, another fantasy. Check them both out on her <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Lela-Markham/e/B00OQWYP68/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1" target="_blank">Amazon page</a> and read her thoughts on <a href="https://aurorawatcherak.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">her blog here</a>!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05634264247783669380noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7487646081332167031.post-76999535867217115392015-08-10T05:30:00.000-07:002015-08-10T05:30:01.195-07:00How to be an Indie Author: Final Thoughts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2vEJz6k_1sDdbk7EL6pBV-b8cTQA5xiAf6r4S-3_6G05C6eOSzomDaEL2dnDT3KfITHjTDUMNowMRSRj2gCBR6ILInG-xPMEe7fJ4BkXnXki9PV_7ZFc0T9sEhBVI5ZSyF61N4mscrxw/s1600/big+moon+over+alameda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2vEJz6k_1sDdbk7EL6pBV-b8cTQA5xiAf6r4S-3_6G05C6eOSzomDaEL2dnDT3KfITHjTDUMNowMRSRj2gCBR6ILInG-xPMEe7fJ4BkXnXki9PV_7ZFc0T9sEhBVI5ZSyF61N4mscrxw/s320/big+moon+over+alameda.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
There is a lot to writing a book. There is a lot to publishing it, whether you go the traditional route or decide to go indie.<br />
<br />
I hope that over the course of my indie author series you were able to gain some insights to the process and learned a little bit about what it takes, where mistakes can happen, and how to do better. Ultimately that is the goal.<br />
<br />
It takes time to be successful in these things. It's been five years since I started down this path, and despite spending hours daily on writing, publishing, marketing, and researching, there is so much more I could know. There are so many more things I have to try, to work on, to evolve. The list is endless. And I question my decisions often, not necessarily out of doubt, but because I want to confirm they are still the right path for increasing success.<br />
<br />
As you move forward in your writing career, remember these lessons that I learned the hard way:<br />
<ol>
<li>Sometimes you just have to do it. Even if it's shitty. Even if it's messy. Sometimes you just need to do it to prove to yourself you can.</li>
<li>Yes, there are some really famous authors who are actually hacks. There are some no-names who are God's gift to literature. Ability has nothing to do with success.</li>
<li>Re-evaluate often. You'll thank yourself. It helps guarantee your improvement.</li>
<li>If you give up, you will not succeed.</li>
<li>If writing brings you joy, just effing do it. Who cares?</li>
<li>Everyone has an opinion and at some point, one of them will hurt. <i>Bad.</i></li>
<li>Find your ideal fan and give them what they want.</li>
<li>Forgive yourself when you screw up. It's okay. You can always rework. You can always improve.</li>
<li>Any review is better than none (haters are good.).</li>
<li>Even if no one values your work, I do - because you're doing it. And that's awesome. It takes a lot of effort and resources and discipline to pull off a manuscript. Drink a beer (or tea - whatever!). You deserve it. And message me. Let's talk writing and publishing.</li>
</ol>
I'm serious. Message me. Tweet me. Facebook something. I love talking about writing and publishing. It's a lonely road and we authors need to stick together.<br />
<br />
If you missed any of the posts in this series, bookmark this round-up of HOW TO BE AN INDIE AUTHOR:<br />
<ol>
<li><a href="http://alexisdonkin.blogspot.com/2015/06/how-to-be-indie-author-1-beginning.html" target="_blank">Beginning</a> </li>
<li><a href="http://alexisdonkin.blogspot.com/2015/06/how-to-be-indie-author-2-process.html" target="_blank">Process</a></li>
<li><a href="http://alexisdonkin.blogspot.com/2015/07/how-to-be-indie-author-3-editing.html" target="_blank">Editing </a></li>
<li><a href="http://alexisdonkin.blogspot.com/2015/07/how-to-be-indie-author-4-formatting.html" target="_blank">Formatting</a></li>
<li><a href="http://alexisdonkin.blogspot.com/2015/07/how-to-be-indie-author-5-publishing.html" target="_blank">Publishing Ebooks</a></li>
<li><a href="http://alexisdonkin.blogspot.com/2015/07/how-to-be-indie-author-6-publishing.html" target="_blank">Publishing Print</a></li>
<li><a href="http://alexisdonkin.blogspot.com/2015/08/how-to-be-indie-author-7-44-marketing.html" target="_blank">44 Marketing Tactics</a></li>
</ol>
I wish you much love and success on your writing journey. And do keep me posted. I want to know how things work out for you. Seriously.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05634264247783669380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7487646081332167031.post-19797979367052040342015-08-05T13:33:00.000-07:002015-08-05T13:33:06.236-07:00Drought (A Poem)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0XGdc6g-ANV2uNr8Jx3gHKwle5LUR6v0lxY3XUpKH60FXw-nNvODehs_rfen7QccZIZoo9v1vnih3-cj8kDVc_VHYxnIuoskHX6NTn_faRhJzxaXaH5EaQI6_sg2l3WLFVJvst8noGj8/s1600/IMAG0291.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0XGdc6g-ANV2uNr8Jx3gHKwle5LUR6v0lxY3XUpKH60FXw-nNvODehs_rfen7QccZIZoo9v1vnih3-cj8kDVc_VHYxnIuoskHX6NTn_faRhJzxaXaH5EaQI6_sg2l3WLFVJvst8noGj8/s320/IMAG0291.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Wriggling toes on parched earth,<br />
I look to Heaven.<br />
<br />
Pollen flies loose<br />
Go ahead. Blow, hot wind!<br />
<br />
Your useless reprieve. <br />
<br />
Seeking bees,<br />
Beneath the surface I scratch at table tops<br />
Yielding fruitless harvests.<br />
<br />
Lick cracked lips.<br />
<br />
Balance calls... <br />
<br />
Bow!<br />
<br />
Accept!<br />
Own! <br />
This is life's path! <br />
<br />
But in the face of shining stone,<br />
The human solution is death.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05634264247783669380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7487646081332167031.post-64883036184053258562015-08-04T11:54:00.000-07:002015-08-04T12:00:28.998-07:00Open Book Blog Hop: Three Things Shaping My Voice<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAKtXw3bQICgtXNIaISt0a6V7Rci1u9X0T-Q4Ypit2vxIXPFOeTURX41B70V_EO36votPeiWRVzGyJ5cC2RY5jmX2e6TqI3sVzDNV0-yvBJyYBPz2CSPu2saqXVxbq0HpIjjoQ09LEqbk/s1600/CAM01053.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAKtXw3bQICgtXNIaISt0a6V7Rci1u9X0T-Q4Ypit2vxIXPFOeTURX41B70V_EO36votPeiWRVzGyJ5cC2RY5jmX2e6TqI3sVzDNV0-yvBJyYBPz2CSPu2saqXVxbq0HpIjjoQ09LEqbk/s320/CAM01053.jpg" width="192" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winetasting in Paso Robles</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
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<i>What are three things that make you unique? That was the prompt for this week's Open Book Blog Hop. I think you'll see a lot of connection between my answer and my <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Alexis-Donkin/e/B00IY2CTX2/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1" target="_blank">books</a>. </i><br />
<br />
Ultimately the thing that makes a writer unique is experience. Accident of birth places us in a certain range of possible experience and life directions. In my case, there are a few specific things which guide everything else.<br />
<br />
First, and perhaps the most obvious, is the influence of my parents. My parents are both ordained Baptist ministers (it is one of the family occupations in my tree). However, their brand of religion is not exclusionary in the least. It is carefully considered, thoughtful, and deep. My father is a man of logic and learning, who enjoys everything life has to offer, from watching a finch take a bath, to winetasting, to playing electric bass or guitar in a funk band. When my friends meet him, they say, "Your dad is <i>so </i>cool!" Half the time they end up befriending him on Facebook.<br />
<br />
My mother is a powerful person. She dictates the climate of every room she enters (a gift I inherited, for better or worse). She suffered prejudice in order to follow her calling. I think because of this, she determined not to pigeon-hole me into a gender label. Instead, as a child she gave me gender neutral clothes unless I asked for something "girly." She made sure I had all kinds of toys, from remote control cars to blocks to dolls. I had science and craft kits. Thanks to her, I never felt like I couldn't do something because I had a uterus.<br />
<br />
Second, I experienced a lot of overt misogyny from toddlerhood through young adulthood. I write a lot about this in my memoir <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Thrive-How-I-Became-Superhero-ebook/dp/B00YFOG7XQ/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8" target="_blank">THRIVE</a>, and while I won't go into the details of what happened here, it definitely shaped who I am and my voice as a writer (especially in the context of my upbringing). This made me hunger for compassionate justice for all people, no matter their identity or station. It definitely directs my themes in all my fiction, but especially in <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Jeremiah-Rollins-Pack-Alexis-Donkin-ebook/dp/B012953DZC/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8" target="_blank">THE ROLLINS PACK</a>, because I wanted boys to particularly understand how their actions can impact others.<br />
<br />
Finally, I am an optimist. Despite whatever crazy things happen to me (again, see THRIVE for some of the nitty gritty), I look for the beauty and wonder in all things. This may be considered a quality or trait as opposed to an experience, but it definitely shapes how I view my life experience and how I approach new things. I always give people the benefit of the doubt. If I don't know I person, I never credit their reputation until I have seen and experienced it myself. If something bad happens, I always look for the lesson or opportunity available. When there is the option for adventure, I always say yes - because I see all the marvelous possibilities and potential. It's how I ended up studying abroad in Hungary at the last minute (I heard a professor talk and decided I was going a month before.). It's how I got married in India in the Himalayas (Because why not? A story for another time...).<br />
<br />
These are the things that stick out in my head as dictating what I do and how I do it. These are the things that shape my work and my path through life. What about you? Leave a comment below or write a post and join the hop!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>Looking for a diversion this August? Be sure to check out <a href="http://pjmaclayne.blogspot.com/p/wolves-pawn.html" target="_blank">P.J. MacLayne's books</a>. If you like werewolves like I do, you might want to pick up a copy of WOLVES' PAWN. It explores werewolf social structure and has a love story, the kind of thing I love in paranormal!</i><br />
<br />
<i>Also be sure to read about MacLayne's Wyoming adventures. There are some super cool pics on her blog.</i><br />
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<i>*****************************</i>
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<!-- end InLinkz script -->Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05634264247783669380noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7487646081332167031.post-85929448240297859622015-08-03T05:04:00.000-07:002015-08-03T05:04:00.327-07:00How to be an Indie Author 7: 44 Marketing Tactics<i>This is the seventh post in a series about self-publishing from ideation through sales. To check out other posts in this series, <a href="http://alexisdonkin.blogspot.com/search/label/indie%20author%20series" target="_blank">click here</a>.</i><br />
<br />
Last time I finished up publishing by going over the special considerations of <a href="http://alexisdonkin.blogspot.com/2015/07/how-to-be-indie-author-6-publishing.html" target="_blank">print-on-demand</a>. This time, I'm going to talk about selling books, specifically, techniques indie authors can use to market their books.<i> </i><br />
<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><u>[insert noun here]</u> sells books.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
First let me start out by saying, I have no goddamn clue what I am doing. None. I devour EVERYTHING on marketing I can find. I subscribe to a variety of newsletters for just this purpose. I ask everyone I know for advice and suggestions. So far, it remains a mystery to me.<br />
<br />
That said, I recently decided to make some major changes to my marketing efforts and while on that journey have had some failures and made other mistakes. And I have so much more to do. One thing, which comes up again and again in marketing articles and blogs I read is <i>know your target audience. </i>This will make everything else either worth it or a waste of time. This is not a simple thing. You should create basically a character - as if you were writing about them. You should know everything about this person. Where do they live? Where do they hang out? Who are their friends? Gender? Age? Education? Socio-economic status? Religion? Everything. <br />
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I have been, historically, terrible at connecting with the demographics who would be interested in my books (I think). As part of my new marketing efforts, I'm going to revisit these questions and re-evaluate my current efforts. It's okay. I know I've made mistakes in every aspect of the publishing process and I've made the most in marketing. I also have a lot of things left to try (So many options for awesome!).<br />
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Now you're wondering, why would you read about marketing from someone who has no idea what they are doing and hasn't tried just as many things?<br />
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*Smirks*<br />
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Because then you know what didn't work for me (or what I have yet to do - which is honestly a lot) and maybe you can do it better. When you go through this stuff, write to me, and tell me what worked for you. <i>Seriously!</i><br />
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Please note, I am listing all these things because they DID work for <i>some </i>authors. They may work for you (especially if you're dialed into your target audience). You may have a better handle on things than I do or did. You may understand social media better, or have more evangelizing friends than I do, or have books in an easier to sell niche. Also, it should be stated that I am incredibly, notoriously, impatient. I may not have given enough time for things to work. Maybe I could have tweaked one thing and it would have been enough. I don't know. Regardless, in no particular order, here is the list of things you can do or places where you can go to market your book as an indie:<br />
<ol>
<li><u>Blog</u> - not sure how many sales I've gotten through my blogs - I think they don't really reach the same demographics as my books. I'm not sure how I feel about that...one way or another. I think this works best if you have a devout fanbase or write specifically for your demographic/brand.</li>
<li><u>Tweet</u> (has been a mixed bag for me). It's fun, and if done well, can generate interest, or at least buzz.</li>
<li><u>Instagram</u> (haven't done this) - this is a good place if you take a lot of pictures and are trying to reach female millennials.</li>
<li><u>Tumblr</u> (haven't done this) - some people have turned their tumblrs into book deals. Not sure exactly how this works, but tumblr has a book liaison person so, it happens regularly.</li>
<li><u>Google +</u> - I get a lot of profile views and infrequently get +1s for my blog posts, but I don't know how helpful it has been as far as sales. </li>
<li><u>Facebook</u> - I think this is more for people who are committed fans as opposed to recruiting new ones. Because of the way FB pushes page statuses v individual statuses, I've read it's better to go with FB ads, but that requires money, which I don't have to allocate to this right now. </li>
<li><u>Podcasting</u> (haven't done this yet but want to, especially do a series from certain character perspectives)</li>
<li><u>Build a quiz </u>based on your books (just did this, not a lot of info yet). I think it's a fun idea, and it takes very little time. So, there you go.</li>
<li><u>Word of mouth</u> - i.e. get a few friends who LOVE YOU and LOVE YOUR WORK to sell FOR YOU. When I find a few myself, I'll let you know how it works out.</li>
<li><u>Reviews</u> - ONE OF THE SINGLE BEST WAYS TO SELL and also, one of the hardest things to get. I've heard PR reps say, give out 50 copies, get 10 reviews back. These you really need to track down - which has worked for me to get a few, but I don't have a lot of data yet on how this plays out.</li>
<li><u>Write reviews for similar work</u> - haven't done this because honestly, I'm not altogether sure how I would set it up. The plus here is people funneled to your blog or post who are primed for that type of content. The downside is, well, you need to have time to read books.</li>
<li><u>Write guest posts and articles on related content</u> - this is something I just started doing since May. I've been doing about a guest post every two weeks. I'm not sure how that will impact sales, but I'll let you know once I have more data.</li>
<li><u>Have a game or app based on your book</u> - haven't done this yet, but I want to. It sounds fun and could definitely create some income streams depending on how you package it.</li>
<li><u>Blog tour</u> - this is another one that tends not to lead to direct sales, but it does get the word out a bit more and opens you up to more guest posting opportunities. So it might not spike sales, but it tends to help in the long run...however I've never done it because most blogs in my niche do not like indie authors and or won't do ebooks. If you have paperback copies, they are more likely to review.</li>
<li><u>Speaking tours</u> - this is something I'm working on for THRIVE especially, so I can't give any feedback about how it pans out because I haven't started yet. That said, I expect this to be a good way to sell books and collect email addresses. Plus, you know, you get paid after six months to a year of paying dues.</li>
<li><u>Newsletter</u> - I've read this is a huge thing that you need to have, and I'm just starting now, so again, I can't say how this works. The plus to this is you can send out updates when you'll be in town or when books are on preorder making it more likely for people to purchase books.</li>
<li><u>Vlogging</u> - again, something I want to do, but haven't been able to because of time commitment. I think pretty faces and funny expressions go a long way to selling books.</li>
<li><u>Amazon Author page</u> - I just fixed this myself, so again, not sure how this will pan out. I think indie authors need to be on Amazon because it is such a major retailer. Whether you choose to be on KDP Select is another question (I'm not, but I'm adamant about having my work on multiple platforms). I think having this will make a big difference, but I need more data.</li>
<li><u>Website</u> - This is a recent addition because until May 2015, I didn't have the funds to make this happen. If you don't have a website, you should at least have a free blog. However, there are cheap WYSIWYG HTML hosting services, like Wix, so really, even if you're tech challenged, you can have a nice site. Again, I don't really have enough data on this to make a pronouncement one way or another, but I think it is a good thing to have a central location where readers can find you online.</li>
<li><u>Ecourses</u> - I am IN LOVE with this idea. I have no idea how it will impact my book sales, or anything, but I want to do this SO BAD it hurts. Especially for <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Thrive-Became-Superhero-Alexis-Donkin-ebook/dp/B00YFOG7XQ" target="_blank">THRIVE</a> and <a href="https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/551785" target="_blank">SIX DEGREES</a>. Maybe even a writing workshop. There are a lot of platforms out there on how to do this, and honestly, I think there are so many options for format, there's no excuse not to do this *<i>if it works with your content</i>.*</li>
<li><u>Streaming video</u> - haven't done this, but I hear it's the next big thing. <a href="http://www.periscope.com/" target="_blank">Periscope</a> seems to be winning the platform war in this, but <a href="https://meerkatapp.co/" target="_blank">Meerkat</a> is another option.</li>
<li><u>Make art </u>- seriously. Visual interpretations of your work, especially in sci-fi and fantasy are great sales tools. I think <a href="https://www.deviantart.com/" target="_blank">DeviantArt</a> is probably the place to make this happen and or disseminate. It's something I want to do, but haven't had time.</li>
<li><u>Bublish</u> - haven't been able to do this because you need to fit certain criteria, but it seems to work for a lot of people.</li>
<li><u>Wattpad</u> - hasn't led to many sales for me, but I do have several first chapters up (of older editions). Some authors swear by this, however, so you may as well try it.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.patreon.com/alexisdonkin?ty=h" target="_blank"><u>Patreon</u></a> - I want this work so bad, but I'm not sure how long it takes to get anything going. I think the biggest thing for this to work is to have some seeders to give you a little social capital. Also, I think being clear about branding is important for this to be successful.</li>
<li><u>Serialization</u> - I have a LOT of work in the works. *Sigh* So again, this is one thing I want to do, that has worked for a lot of authors, but I haven't tried it yet (maybe on Patreon?).</li>
<li><u>Giveaways</u> - I've done a lot of different giveaways at different times. It hasn't led to many sales or reviews thus far. In fact, I'm not sure what the point is of giveaways, unless it is the first book in a series of pageturners. Use at your discretion.</li>
<li><u>Contests</u> - this is different than giveaways. Contests might involve winners pitching you a story they want you to write or getting a main character named after them in the next book. I think this is a good idea, but I'm not sure how much of a fan base you need initially to make the buzz spread. This might be for people with a second or third book, or it could be for someone who has a good set of evangelist friends.</li>
<li><u>Fan fiction</u> - I've been told this is a REALLY good way to go. Pay homage to a series or a genre fav, and you're golden. I think this only works if you are actually a big fan and or you're trailblazing with the book in question (see: <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wicked_(Maguire_novel)" target="_blank">Wicked</a>). Personally, I'm not sure I qualify in either of those categories....</li>
<li><u>Book launches</u> - this works if you have your book set on preorder like 12 months out, and you have a team of people who are committed to selling you. I didn't have either of those things, so it didn't really work out for me. <i>Note: The biggest mystery to me is finding true believers and or evangelists. If you have that on lock down, MESSAGE ME IMMEDIATELY! We need to talk</i>!</li>
<li><u>Trailers</u> - I've heard from multiple sources this is a waste of time and money....but...some people are determined to do it. I never have because of the former.</li>
<li><u>Advertising</u> - I've read this is essential. I've also read it is a waste of time and money. I have no idea who is right. Some people this works for, others it doesn't. If you have the resources to commit to this, go ahead and try it. Facebook retargeting ads are supposed to have a super high conversion rate. Do a test run and let me know how it goes.</li>
<li><u>Free</u> - give out some content for free. Some people swear by this, others are adamantly opposed. I haven't had very much luck when I've done this, so I can't say it was particularly worth it. I think the goal with free is to get reviews. If you don't get those, then....that sucks (unless it's the first book in a series, but that has been overdone).</li>
<li><u>Author/influencer blurbs</u> - I've read of people having some serious success with this. If you know a famous author in your genre, or have a connection or whatever, try and get a blurb for your book and PROMOTE THE HELL OUT OF THAT SHIT. Ahem. I haven't done this, but there are a couple of authors/influencers I would <i>die </i>to have quotes from.</li>
<li><u>Get in a magazine</u> - an essay, a short story, whatever. I haven't been able to break into this yet, and it supposedly takes a lot of effort to convince the first magazine to take a risk on you (even if you follow all the advice columns). I have gotten a lot of kind rejections. That said, I think I'm closer now than before, mostly because of the guest posting I've been doing. I'm going to cross my fingers on this one and hopefully something hits me on the head.</li>
<li><u>Send press kits</u> - if you live in a place where media outlets might actually publish your press release, do this. Even if you're not sure they will, do this. I haven't had any luck with this so far, but it's worth a try. </li>
<li><u>Hand sell</u> - I've heard this works really well. If you have a stack of your paperbacks in your car, and have a good pitch or charisma out the butt, this will probably work for you (Shit, I really need to get a stack of my books in my car!).</li>
<li><u>More books</u> - I've read it's good to have an entire library of books available for readers. I have a ton of books published, and many more planned. I don't know how well this works if you don't have a few beloved fans in your arsenal.</li>
<li><u>Coverart</u> - if your books aren't selling, redo it. I just did this, and I'll let you know how it works out.</li>
<li><u>Categories</u> - if your books aren't selling, redo them. I just did this, so I'll let you know what happens.</li>
<li><u>Jacket summaries</u> - if your books aren't selling, redo them. I did this a little bit, but I think other things need to be at work for this to help sales along. </li>
<li><u>2nd Editions</u> - if your books aren't selling, rewrite them. I just did <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Alexis-Donkin/e/B00IY2CTX2" target="_blank">this</a> with KHLOE ALWELL and when I'm finished editing ANDREW, I'll do it for the entire ROLLINS PACK.</li>
<li><u>Sell your soul</u> - write a sellout book. I think there is something to this, but I still think you need other things in place for this to be successful. I'll let you know when I finally get BELOW THE BELT onto Amazon.</li>
<li><u>Stop worrying about it and just write</u> - I've read this works for some people. I'm personally unable to do this...though I've tried.</li>
</ol>
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<i>Did I miss anything? Let me know if you have any special techniques or strategies that worked for you. Also, when you try the above, TELL ME WHAT WORKED! I want all the juicy details!</i><br />
<i><br /></i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05634264247783669380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7487646081332167031.post-90672121013946171972015-07-29T09:16:00.000-07:002015-07-30T12:38:52.079-07:00The Excitement of Adventure<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfcHoNh5Mc1e_qrAPSTHx-JJwLES_ppNclYRgf7o97gnrI-fD-19uTXJfsd8BtWbQftTzzbSe9flnPtKaIolbdIa3oATGiwyUl8XgyxGO51x2RjEu1m5GaXr-1WIySke7G6RemkGXv-yM/s1600/PAN+san+bruno+mountain+reserve+cropped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfcHoNh5Mc1e_qrAPSTHx-JJwLES_ppNclYRgf7o97gnrI-fD-19uTXJfsd8BtWbQftTzzbSe9flnPtKaIolbdIa3oATGiwyUl8XgyxGO51x2RjEu1m5GaXr-1WIySke7G6RemkGXv-yM/s320/PAN+san+bruno+mountain+reserve+cropped.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">San Bruno Mountain Reserve 2012</td></tr>
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<i>This post is part of the Open Book Blog Hop (begun by author <a href="http://pjfiala.com/blog/" target="_blank">P.J. Fiala)</a> where you can learn more about authors and bloggers. The theme this week is fun.</i><br />
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My "fun" is limited. I'm a bit of a workaholic and a stay-at-home parent of an active toddler, which means 99% of my time is spoken for. I have to plan every part of my day and week just to make sure I can shower and brush my teeth. When I do get a spare minute, I am usually so tired, all I can do is watch the latest sci-fi creation out of Canada.<br />
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That said, when my husband is off work, we do family or date things. This often involves hiking, short excursions, and or movies. Today we went to the beach, took a long walk, and had a picnic. Afterwards we got frozen yogurt at a DIY yogurt bar. That is a pretty typical example of our family time.<br />
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Before Kiddo, however, things were a little different.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFXkr5eMtMnNFTHBLut7PGLAc9soOjIHO_o8V1YeC7lNXykHRPUoKlH645BbM4Dq2X1J0ckvcEruc1RF09LPPx1lu8d59906m1zIIU4eIzMkDvxAuL3ItL95FHHXApIB7X-Je4IC3az_g/s1600/IMAG0036.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFXkr5eMtMnNFTHBLut7PGLAc9soOjIHO_o8V1YeC7lNXykHRPUoKlH645BbM4Dq2X1J0ckvcEruc1RF09LPPx1lu8d59906m1zIIU4eIzMkDvxAuL3ItL95FHHXApIB7X-Je4IC3az_g/s320/IMAG0036.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Halloween Shiny Toy Guns concert, Bako 2011</td></tr>
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I really enjoy dancing - salsa, hip-hop, techno, swing, waltz, whatever. It brings me joy. I also love live music, especially funk and folk (though my interests are pretty varied). Dinner and dancing or a concert would be an ideal time for me. I also really enjoy art openings, festivals, and museums for daytime fun. So if I was childless and wanted to have some staycation-style fun, this would be it.<br />
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But more than this, I love adventuring. An adventure for me could be hiking, camping, or just exploring a new town. When I lived in the Bay Area, we would go on a different hiking trail every weekend, and often explore a new section of the Bay. Every weekend was a new adventure, and I absolutely loved it.<br />
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We try to do that everywhere we live. When we were in Phoenix, we would take a day in different parts of the city. We went to the mountains. We went to Sedona. We went to Tuscon. When we lived in Bakersfield, we explored Tehachapi. We sussed out all the cool spots. We went to Lake Isabella.<br />
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Now that we're in Santa Barbara County, it's hard to feel like there is any adventure left, because we've both lived in the area for significant portions of time. Having our son brings an element of newness to the place, but it's not quite the same. I'm still getting used to the change and embracing it. The next big adventure is scheduled for late September when we'll be camping in Big Sur with Kiddo and going to the Monterrey Bay Aquarium. While I've been to both places when childless, I am excited to share them with my son and experience them as a family. It is different. There won't be dancing or concerts. Our pace will be slower, but I will get to experience it all through Kiddo's eyes. To see his joy when watching jellyfish tanks or when feeling the tide pool exhibit will be wonderful.<br />
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<i>What do you consider fun? Leave a comment below! </i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.tracykrimmer.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/302781_10200499286538085_1332166613_n-300x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.tracykrimmer.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/302781_10200499286538085_1332166613_n-300x300.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tracy</td></tr>
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<i>Speaking of fun, check out chick lit and women's fiction author Tracy Krimmer. Her new book, Jay Walking is on pre-order on Amazon. You can read about this, her other novels, and check out her blog at her site <a href="http://www.tracykrimmer.com/" target="_blank">here</a>! Also be sure to like her Facebook Author page <a href="https://www.facebook.com/krimmerauthor" target="_blank">here</a>.</i><br />
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<i> </i> <br />
<i>Also, if you're interested in joining our blog hop, link up below!</i><br />
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<!-- end InLinkz script -->Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05634264247783669380noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7487646081332167031.post-87622757969928906442015-07-27T11:32:00.000-07:002015-07-30T08:54:47.188-07:00How to be an Indie Author 6: Publishing Print<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>This is the sixth post in a series about self-publishing from ideation through sales. To check out other posts in this series, <a href="http://alexisdonkin.blogspot.com/search/label/indie%20author%20series" target="_blank">click here</a>.</i><br />
<br />
Last time I covered a lot of ground when discussing digital <a href="http://alexisdonkin.blogspot.com/2015/07/how-to-be-indie-author-5-publishing.html" target="_blank">publishing</a>. This time I'm going to explain a few of the differences that you need to consider when publishing for print a.k.a. print-on-demand a.k.a. POD.<br />
<i> </i><br />
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<h3>
Nuts and Bolts</h3>
The biggest thing at issue here is formatting your manuscript. As I mentioned in the <a href="http://alexisdonkin.blogspot.com/2015/07/how-to-be-indie-author-4-formatting.html" target="_blank">formatting post</a>, that will make or break you. For POD, it takes me at least two days <i>when using a template. </i>Assuming you've done the hard work of formatting your manuscript (and I really recommend using a template, typically provided by the POD printer/distributor) there are a few other concerns that make the POD process distinct from digital publication:<br />
<ol>
<li>Book type and</li>
<li>Distribution channels<br />
</li>
</ol>
<h3>
Book Type</h3>
I'm using "book type" as a shorthand for page size and binding type. No doubt you own a few different sized books. Some genres tend towards larger sizes, where others tend to be smaller. Some make sense with a spiral binding, where others really need a traditional spine. Think about the genre of your book and typical sizes/binding types. Whatever is normal for your book's genre is what you want for your book.<br />
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The book size and binding type will dictate the manuscript template you need. <i>They must match.</i> If you got the wrong size or weren't thinking about things, you're going to need to reformat. <i>Suck, </i>I know, but necessary.<br />
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This will also dictate the kind of cover you need to have. Some POD printer/distributors (like the one I use, <a href="http://createspace.com/" target="_blank">CreateSpace</a>) have cover creation applications on their sites where you can plug in high res pictures and some text without too much hassle. If you want to have a custom cover, they often have templates you can use to make and upload your own. Typically I do a hybrid version where I have a full cover image and then the spine and back are "plug and play."<br />
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<h3>
Distribution </h3>
After you've got your ISBN, your cover is made, your files are free from errors, you finally get to proof your book. Sometimes this means you have to purchase an author proof. Sometimes it means you get to view the book for free digitally. Whatever the case, you make your choice and the book gets proofed. Now you're ready to publish the book which means several things:<br />
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<br />
<ol>
<li>Selecting categories (should be the same as you had for your digital version)</li>
<li>Setting price (should be high enough that you make royalties but low enough that readers will buy it)</li>
<li>Selecting distribution channels (so the most readers can access your book)</li>
</ol>
Categories and pricing are important when considering distribution. You want people to be able to find your work. The more websites that sell it, the more libraries that carry it, the better. At the very least, it needs to be on Amazon because of the wide reach of the site. CreateSpace is an Amazon company, so when I publish my books, I get both a CreateSpace store (where I get maximum royalties) and my book gets added to the Amazon market quickly. I also have expanded distribution options where libraries and booksellers can purchase copies of my books.<br />
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Now, I should explain why I chose CreateSpace. I wanted something easy that didn't have any upfront costs. I liked that I had an ISBN that didn't require extra fees and I didn't have to order a hundred copies of my book when I didn't know how many people would be purchasing it. Anyone can go to my CreateSpace store and buy a copy of <a href="https://www.createspace.com/5499900" target="_blank">THRIVE: HOW I BECAME A SUPERHERO</a>, for example, and the book gets printed immediately <i>for them.</i> That is the beauty of POD.<br />
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There are a lot of other POD printer/distributors and authors have a variety of reasons for choosing those companies. In fact, some small presses use them because the cost is so much less than ordering 1000 copies of a book. It honestly doesn't matter which ones you choose, as long as they connect with major channels and have the features that work best for your goals and situation. Ultimately that is joy of being an indie author - one size doesn't fit all.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Publish the way that works best for you, because that is what will give you the greatest fulfillment and the highest probability of success.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">******************</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Leave a comment below to share your thoughts on the POD process as well as any tips and tricks you've picked up on the way!</i></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Also check out my next post in this series where I will begin discussing the marketing and sales
process. </i><br />
<i><i> </i></i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><i>Visit my <a href="http://alexisdonkin.com/" target="_blank">website</a>
to donate, become a patron, or buy my books! </i>I recently made some serious updates to the site and I'd love your thoughts. Be sure to check out my updated <a href="http://amazon.com/author/alexisdonkin" target="_blank">Amazon Author Page.</a> You can get all the fiction there as well as THRIVE and TRANSFORM TO THRIVE, my tweets, and more! </i></span> </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05634264247783669380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7487646081332167031.post-30260682390979315032015-07-22T05:30:00.000-07:002015-07-22T05:30:03.483-07:00Writing Inspiration: Punk Fanboys, College, and Vinnie Pies<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDBnb9xDstKGcSyE7OA0NWVx3r5oJm22Puhomm2zfTQn1k8qIidJn764Ui2dpl3NosN7TaAAZBmDSAvnwvW3eEujqcmmc0IAu0fHl5i5eT5jov-YjN-qgn2rPXXQ0XF_3I14Lc7lQP07I/s1600/100_1326.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDBnb9xDstKGcSyE7OA0NWVx3r5oJm22Puhomm2zfTQn1k8qIidJn764Ui2dpl3NosN7TaAAZBmDSAvnwvW3eEujqcmmc0IAu0fHl5i5eT5jov-YjN-qgn2rPXXQ0XF_3I14Lc7lQP07I/s320/100_1326.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pittsburgh, view from the incline</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I get inspiration from everywhere. Things stick in the back of my mind - blaring neon signs begging to be shared. They bother me until I have to write them into a story. Sometimes it's unexpected. Sometimes it's conscious and intentional.<br />
<br />
I have this love of those indie and punk rock fanboys. Really. They're my not-so-secret crush. You know the ones - the kind who wear band shirts and low slung dark jeans. They are so adamant about their views and on the turn of a dime ruthlessly mock themselves. The ones who sing you lullabies, kiss soft, and stare with such smoldering intensity you can't wait to tackle them in a broom closet, on the playground, and under the bleachers.<br />
<br />
Ahem. That's how my character Laran came to be in the <a href="https://www.smashwords.com/books/byseries/10938" target="_blank">KHLOE ALWELL</a> series.<br />
<br />
Then there's the places that make you into who you are - colleges and universities - the ones where you party with your professors and the lines blur between mentor, employer, and friend. They live in small towns that bend around the space of the university, and everything stops in summer.It's something between <a href="http://ucsb.edu/" target="_blank">UCSB</a>, <a href="http://psu.edu/" target="_blank">Penn State</a>, <a href="http://juniata.edu/" target="_blank">Juniata</a>, and <a href="http://bard.edu/" target="_blank">Bard</a>. That's where Alisa meets Dr. Pierce in <a href="https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/352885" target="_blank">BELOW THE BELT</a>. <br />
<br />
But inspiration can be more than a specific place - it can be a complete culture, including everything from the food people eat to the entertainment they enjoy.<br />
<br />
For example, my dad's family is from Pittsburgh. Whenever we visit, we always go to <a href="http://www.vincentspizzapark.com/" target="_blank">Vincent's Pizza</a>. I frickin love that place. People on the west coast do NOT understand about pizza. They don't. Anyone who claims they know what good pizza is and then talk about a national chain is stupidly limited in their exposure to good pizza.<br />
<br />
There are several styles. There is the Chicago style, which has a time and place. There is Sicilian, also a time and place. Then there is New York, which kind of migrates from NYS down into Jersey, Philly, and west all the way to Pittsburgh. Seriously (I've been to these places and lived there - trust me on this.). These are the kinds of places that have crust so thin in the middle it falls apart when you pick it up. The sauce has simmered for days, because health codes can't get in the way of taste. The cheese is piled high. Once baked, the crust bubbles and the grease settles in the center, threatening a coronary.<br />
<br />
So yeah, every <a href="https://www.smashwords.com/books/byseries/10939" target="_blank">Rollins boy</a> loves <a href="https://www.facebook.com/VinniePie" target="_blank">Vinnie's pies</a>. And he loves the Steelers. And the Pirates. And the Penguins. Because that's what it means to be from Pittsburgh, something that only people with ties to Pittsburgh understand.<br />
<br />
And I wanted to share these things, because they were so important to my own formation. They marked my days and nights and built me into the woman I am today. How could I not write about them? About smoldering eyes, fun colleges, and delicious pizza?<br />
<br />
These are the things I pull from reality to give readers a glimpse. They are the details that build believable books.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05634264247783669380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7487646081332167031.post-89933475169140425742015-07-21T11:20:00.000-07:002015-07-22T13:45:58.931-07:00What's so special about Santa Barbara?<i>This post is part of the #OpenBook Blog Hop where readers get the chance to learn a little more about authors. This week's theme is what is special about where you live. Enjoy!</i><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj36XOfxliA9M0ctoSPp4PwnMgNM66g4lABN8y_ouUKkdJqd9G8kge5v6WV0W9qA0tTZax51LwYI9HJdKV5KGb7MRamHereIvBDiyXR-sutbenXAwKsc4DhOP93CZfVXW9NKeSm_OJj2gA/s1600/IMAG0051.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj36XOfxliA9M0ctoSPp4PwnMgNM66g4lABN8y_ouUKkdJqd9G8kge5v6WV0W9qA0tTZax51LwYI9HJdKV5KGb7MRamHereIvBDiyXR-sutbenXAwKsc4DhOP93CZfVXW9NKeSm_OJj2gA/s320/IMAG0051.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Santa Barbara sunset #nofilter</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I live in a magical place. Mythical. Wondrous. Exceptional. These are all words that describe Santa Barbara County (and it is why I reference it in the <a href="https://www.smashwords.com/books/byseries/10938" target="_blank">Khloe Alwell series</a>). I couldn't pick just one thing that makes Santa Barbara County unique or special, so I made a list:<br />
<ol>
<li>Santa Barbara is one place in the world where the coastline runs from east to west. The mountains are to the north, while the ocean is to the south. This means both sunsets and sunrises are over water.</li>
<li>You know you're in Santa Barbara because of the flowers. Even amid the worst drought ever, flowers continue to blossom. Not just Yucca or mustard, but ice plant, trumpet flowers, jasmine, poppies, and bougainvillea are common sights.</li>
<li>Celebrities are common citizens. As in, everyone who lives in SB County has a "celebrity story." Maybe Jeff Bridges served you soup at a charity event, or you got a shot poured by Michael Jordan on State Street. Maybe Kenny Loggins sang the national anthem at your kid's little league game.</li>
<li>To be perfectly politically incorrect and blunt, an SB 10 is like a 20 on everyone else's scale. Hanging out with an SB 7 is like hanging out with a Phoenix 10+. As a rule the scenery is, ahem, spectacular.</li>
<li>I can walk to several wine-tasting rooms from my house. And they are all drinkable, with several that are exceptional. There are hundreds of wine-tasting rooms in SB County. If you like old-world high-tannin style, you can get that. If you like new-world fruit-forward, that is here in abundance. And just like they say in <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0375063/" target="_blank">Sideways</a>, the pinots are, well, <i>get some pinot!</i></li>
<li>Cowboys, hippies, and Hollywood types all live in peace here, and often attend the same events. Somehow. Miraculously. </li>
<li>Produce here is amazing. Despite the drought. Organic fruit and veggies fresh from the farm down the road are available at different farmers' markets throughout the county. My personal favs are <i>all </i>the berries, white peaches, and avocados.</li>
<li><i> </i>Even though pretty much everything here is more expensive
(it is one of the top real estate markets in the country), you can still
get delicious $1.00 tacos every Tuesday at most neighborhood Mexican
restaurants.</li>
<li>The courthouse is worth sitting in with a latte. <i>Seriously.</i> It is beautiful, complete with sunken gardens, Spanish tiles, and spectacular murals.</li>
<li>The mission is gorgeous, no matter how you feel about the Catholic church - you have to give it to them. They know decor. Santa Barbara's is called the "Queen of the Missions" for a <i>reason.</i></li>
</ol>
<i>Have you had a Santa Barbara experience? Something you would add to the list? Leave a comment below!</i><br />
<br />
<i>Also, if you want a good beach read involving romance and motorcycles (of course!) check out P.J. Fiala's book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Days-Summer-Rolling-Thunder-Book-ebook/dp/B00ZEOXTHS/ref=as_li_ss_tl?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1434148811&sr=1-1&keywords=Dog+Days+of+Summer&pebp=1434148819419&perid=9C5A9D98E1CE40D78FA9&linkCode=sl1&tag=wwwpjfialacom-20&linkId=B3MGO2ROSK2BT3EZ" target="_blank">Dog Days of Summer!</a></i><br />
<i> </i><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05634264247783669380noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7487646081332167031.post-35678953545032150822015-07-20T12:09:00.000-07:002015-07-20T12:09:47.000-07:00How to be an Indie Author 5: Publishing Ebooks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://dwtr67e3ikfml.cloudfront.net/bookCovers/a7c527ee3b37a9a56b38dda1b52bec10c36d04f8__300x0" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://dwtr67e3ikfml.cloudfront.net/bookCovers/a7c527ee3b37a9a56b38dda1b52bec10c36d04f8__300x0" width="228" /></a></div>
<i>This is the fifth post in a series about self-publishing from ideation through sales. To check out other posts in this series, <a href="http://alexisdonkin.blogspot.com/search/label/indie%20author%20series" target="_blank">click here</a>.</i><br />
<br />
In the last post for this series I wrote about <a href="http://alexisdonkin.blogspot.com/2015/07/how-to-be-indie-author-4-formatting.html" target="_blank">formatting</a>, the prep for publishing. Now is time to get into the nitty gritty of publishing.<br />
<br />
This is a behemoth of a post with info about jacket summaries and cover art, so get comfortable. Let's talk about the thing you've been waiting for - the thing that makes an indie author, well, indie.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Digital Power </h3>
The bread and butter of indie publishing, the thing that really launched independent authors was the ebook. This is to authors as the MP3 is to musicians. It revolutionized the publishing world and allowed authors to take control of their publishing destinies <i>directly</i> - something that is completely novel (heh) in the history of publishing.<br />
<br />
Also, publishing an ebook is something that a monkey can do.<br />
<br />
Really.<br />
<br />
Author <a href="http://jakonrath.blogspot.com/2013/08/8-hour-ebook-challenge-winners.html" target="_blank">Joe Konrath</a> once challenged people to write and publish an ebook in 8 hours. And people did it. A lot of people did it. Because it is <i>so dang easy.</i> <br />
<br />
The difference between publishing an average ebook and a <i>good e</i>book is <a href="http://alexisdonkin.blogspot.com/2015/07/how-to-be-indie-author-4-formatting.html" target="_blank">formatting</a> (assuming all else is equal). If you have your formatting done by professionals, through a reliable template, or you're old hat at the process, you're golden.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Jacket Summary</h3>
<br />
Before you get to the publish page of <a href="http://smashwords.com/" target="_blank">Smashwords</a> (my preferred e-publisher/distributor for its wide reach and high royalty percentage) you need to spend a little time on descriptions.<br />
<br />
There are usually two descriptions you need to write - the short, which shows up on all online retailers, and the long, which only gets pushed to a few.<br />
<br />
To be honest, I open a separate document which I save to my book folder as "Book Title Summary" and write as compelling a summary as I can, without concern for length. I know my long description is always shorter than the character count.<br />
<br />
There are a lot of resources on how to write jacket summaries, but the thing that I've found the most helpful is:<br />
<ol>
<li>Look at best-selling book summaries in the same genre. </li>
<li>Don't give everything away.</li>
<li>Somewhere in your closing paragraph or last sentence use this formula: "[main character] must do [certain action] or [result]."</li>
</ol>
This formula is the 140 character Tweet you'll send out to catch people's attention. It's the lead for your elevator pitch. It's the thing that will get someone to buy the damn book. That said, this won't always work. Sometimes a description does well without this formula. For example here is the long description for <a href="https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/352885" target="_blank">BELOW THE BELT</a>:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Alisa Greer excitedly begins her doctoral program in anthropology when
she meets Dr. Corwin Pierce. An awkward genius, she swears his eyes
change color as a result of the light, and his cold appearance can only
be a figment of her imagination. Yet as Alisa gets closer to Pierce,
things even more bizarre start happening on campus and at archaeological
sites that all link back to him. Students go missing under strange
circumstances and inexplicable displays of light occur at ancient sites
across the globe. Frightened and fascinated, she can only begin to guess
who or what he is. But the truth is more disturbing than she can
imagine... </span></blockquote>
My quick and dirty way to get the short description is cut this down to size in the field on the publishing page. The key is to get the content and interest generation despite the shorter length. Here's the short description I have for the same book:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Alisa Greer excitedly begins her doctoral program in anthropology when
she meets Dr. Corwin Pierce. As Alisa gets closer to Pierce, bizarre
things start happening on campus and at archaeological sites that all
link back to him. She can only begin to guess who or what he is, but the
truth is more disturbing than she can imagine... </span></blockquote>
<br />
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
Book Covers</h3>
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>Never judge a book by its cover, unless it's an ebook.</i> </blockquote>
<br />
That may as well be the message of most "indie publishing gurus." As much as authors may wish people would not judge books by covers, they do. And let's face it, if an author doesn't spend the time to make their cover look nice, how can you be sure they spent the time on their book?<br />
<br />
I say this, knowing full well I spend a shit-ton of time on my covers. In fact, they give me a tremendous amount of grief...and they don't look like anyone else's.<br />
I did that on purpose because I wanted the art to reflect the nature of the stories. For the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=series_rw_dp_labf?_encoding=UTF8&field-collection=Khloe+Alwell+Series&url=search-alias%3Ddigital-text" target="_blank">Khloe Alwell series</a>, I wanted the covers to hint at an artist's sketchbook. The main character is an artist, and art is referenced throughout the books.<br />
<br />
That said, I am not a graphic artist. I've spent a lot of time and effort earning the knowledge of cover design I have, and it's imperfect. I went from horrible covers when I first started out, to something that is passable, and finally, with my new <a href="https://www.smashwords.com/books/byseries/10939" target="_blank">Rollins Pack covers</a>, to something that is sort of, well, <i>good.</i><br />
<br />
You can, if you don't want to deal with this mess, pay someone else to make your cover. In fact, I would advise you do that if you have the resources to do so. If not, or if you're not concerned with graphics and just want a simple cover for a business book or something, use templates. There are a thousand and one sites that have resources for this.<br />
<br />
If you choose to go the DIY route, do that. I never did that because, I have some art training and I wanted to learn the photo-editing skills it would take (also I didn't have the cash to pay someone else at the time).<br />
<br />
If you're crazy or beyond broke, you can do what I did. Download <a href="http://www.gimp.org/" target="_blank">GIMP</a> for free (yay open source!). If you've worked with Adobe before, GIMP will feel relatively natural. If not, play around with it for a while. Spend some serious time doing this. Figure out the ideal scale for your cover, make sure to have it at least 300 DPI, and go to town. Download some free for commercial use fonts (there are a gagillion sites for this) and enjoy.<br />
<br />
NOTE: This will take you a week of tweaking, especially if this is all new. Be patient and prepared to swear at your screen. Have things that are safe to throw nearby. And take breaks.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Categories</h3>
<br />
This is something that is somewhat arbitrary and mystical. For many books, the categories you choose will be cut and dry, but for others, you have wiggle room.<br />
<br />
I honestly have no idea what categories to choose for most of my fiction - well, I should say, I struggle with categorization. But categories are important because this is how new readers may find you.<br />
<br />
Actually, I lied. I know exactly what categories to choose. <i><u>Choose the categories your ideal reader would choose.</u></i><br />
<br />
*Blinks*<br />
<br />
Who is this mythical ideal reader? For the Rollins Pack, they're late teen to early twenty-something males. For Khloe Alwell, they're the same age, both male and female, who are deep into nerd culture. So sometimes labelling these books as YA is good, and then again, maybe it would be better to label them "new adult." My deciding factor was the age of the main character - so I keep them YA (If this is confusing, don't worry. We'll touch on this again in marketing and sales.).<br />
<br />
<h3>
PUBLISH!</h3>
<br />
Everything's entered on the publish page. You set a preliminary price (probably between 2.99 and 4.99 for the average ebook) and hit the publish button. You select all the different file types (of course!) and click through. Your book is in queue. You get an email saying it had no autovetter errors (if it did, follow the directions in the email). Now it gets reviewed and then, assuming everything's good (which is should be if you have good formatting) your book gets pushed to all the major online retailers.<br />
<br />
Sit back and smile.<br />
<br />
You are now an independently published author.<br />
<br />
*******************<br />
<i>If you have tips or tricks on descriptions, cover art, or categorization (or like a different digital distributor) leave a comment below! I love learning more about indie publishing and I know other readers will too! </i><br />
<br />
<i>Also check out my next post in this series on publishing print-on-demand where I will talk about the differences in that process. </i><br />
<br />
<i><i>And <u>please</u> support your local, lovely indie bootstrapper, by visiting my <a href="http://alexisdonkin.com/" target="_blank">website</a>
to donate or buy my books! All the links on my site give me maximum
royalty percentages, as opposed to supporting big companies.</i> </i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05634264247783669380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7487646081332167031.post-60709881077785427872015-07-17T08:30:00.000-07:002015-07-17T13:11:57.709-07:00A Lemon Pie Life of Full-time Travel<span style="color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i>This is a guest post by Johanna Read, a <span style="font-family: inherit;">writer </span>who gets paid to travel. She chose to transform a crisis into an opportunity to follow a dream, and her story</i> <i>embodies the THRIVE mindset. I am so excited to have her share her story here. Also be sure to read about her travels on her site!</i></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i>*************** </i></span> </span></span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Guest post by Johanna Read, </span><a href="http://traveleater.net/" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">TravelEater.net</span></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I have always dreamed of a life full of travel. Exploring places I’ve read about in </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/cZAg71ieqfOjTS4UaypbrbGejLVVTZX4PZ0s5WFArKS_SfCzHv0sxVENlevklivJDK4ozA=s190" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/cZAg71ieqfOjTS4UaypbrbGejLVVTZX4PZ0s5WFArKS_SfCzHv0sxVENlevklivJDK4ozA=s190" /></a></span></div>
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">books, scuba diving in every sea, seeing for my own eyes how history evolves, understanding the nuances of cultural etiquette, finally learning about art and architecture, and eating. Especially eating.</span></div>
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<span style="color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But I had expected to fulfill this dream later in life, after I’d paid off my mortgage, after I’d climbed the corporate ladder, after I’d maximized my pension, and after I’d had a proper retirement party. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sometimes life gives you lemons and you need to change your plans. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In the space of a few weeks in 2012, I found out I was getting divorced and downsized. And it was the best thing that ever happened to me. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Everyone has some lemons in their life. Bad things happen to all of us. But it’s what you do with those lemons that counts. </span></span></span></div>
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<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If I had just the divorce or just the downsizing to deal with, I would have been devastated. But the two together meant I could try something completely new with my life. When life gives you a few lemons, you can make lemonade ... but you need to really squeeze those lemons and it can take a lot of effort to find the sugar. But when life gives you a bushel of lemons, why not make lemon pie? </span></span></span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I still can’t believe that I started living my retirement dream at age 43. Not only travelling, but writing articles and taking photographs that people actually want to publish (and even occasionally pay me for!). In the past year I’ve been on six continents, including a press trip to China. The majority of my hotels -- and sometimes exotic dinners, spa treatments and excursions -- are given to me free of charge, in exchange for writing travel articles. Oh, and they’re usually luxury hotels too! I’ve lost 25 pounds. My depression and anxiety are gone, and I can sleep through the night again. I can flirt in three languages. I’m perfectly ok with the unknown, in fact I think I prefer it now. I can go on months-long trips to countries I’ve never been, knowing not much more than which airports I’ll fly out of. My shyness is practically gone, and I can make friends anywhere. I’d always considered myself a happy person, but now I’m on another scale entirely. Not just lemonade. Lemon pie. </span></span></span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I’m not saying it is easy to make lemon pie. I’ve certainly had to make some sacrifices. I sold my half of the house to my ex-husband and invested every penny from it and my buy-out package. I own next to nothing. I wistfully remember my dental plan. For the few months of the year I’m home in Canada, I pay “family rate” rent to borrow my mum’s pied-a-terre (thanks Mum!). I’ll need to find another option in the next year or two before my mum moves in. I travel mostly in developing countries where the cost of living is low. What many people consider routine -- lattes, a movie, new clothes -- are for me the rarest of indulgences. But it was an easy decision to give up regular life in exchange for travelling the world. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I’m lucky that I don’t have children to feed or fund. I’m allowed to be a frequent house guest. I will eventually get a pension. I’ve lived my life in a way that made leaving the working world this early not impossible. I’ve always had a fear of debt and lived frugally. I jumped straight from grad school into my career, and sought promotion after promotion. I invested carefully. And if disaster strikes, it shouldn’t be too difficult to find a real job. </span></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/4cDqvJ_PtnJCerqf3SvaoZ5FUpruKfTlHoUABBlMvz3ilLgU9WZlialzDuq6IZLM9D2n_A=s190" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/4cDqvJ_PtnJCerqf3SvaoZ5FUpruKfTlHoUABBlMvz3ilLgU9WZlialzDuq6IZLM9D2n_A=s190" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I can’t tell you how much I love my lemon pie life of constantly learning and exploring. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">People often tell me they’re jealous. But with some planning and sacrifices, almost anyone can live their dream. There’s no need to settle for lemonade either -- make lemon pie. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">**************</span></span><br />
<span style="color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Johanna Read is a Canadian freelance writer and photographer specializing in travel and food. She's been to 48 countries (and counting!) and in the past year has been on six continents. Follow Johanna on Instagram @TravelEaterJohanna and on Twitter @TravelEater. Check out all her travels at </span><a href="http://www.traveleater.net/" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">TravelEater.net</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></i></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05634264247783669380noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7487646081332167031.post-11965326547977445592015-07-16T14:32:00.000-07:002015-07-16T14:32:48.698-07:00What am I worth?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyA25-o8nmaqwBr_yIX6Sh0hU-ywads2QUrQnZYUATvxRVLPLVbYYaAI0BmbzSQlZ2S5GeWQvXl7em1NNJeLWf7Xc92HTh2qyEgNG5qhX4du0nZ6ARSte7-82e1f3Ze3j61TxSpFc7A94/s1600/close+serious.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyA25-o8nmaqwBr_yIX6Sh0hU-ywads2QUrQnZYUATvxRVLPLVbYYaAI0BmbzSQlZ2S5GeWQvXl7em1NNJeLWf7Xc92HTh2qyEgNG5qhX4du0nZ6ARSte7-82e1f3Ze3j61TxSpFc7A94/s320/close+serious.jpg" width="214" /></a></div>
I have changed my tactics to writing, blogging, and book selling, in large part because I am not where I want to be. Obviously, if you're not where you want to be, you need to do something differently. As part of that, I've been reading a lot. I've joined a thousand and one groups, forums, mailing lists - you name it. I've reached out to who knows how many different blogs, writers, publicity gurus etc.<br />
<br />
About 75% of the time these people write back, in some way. Usually it is a helpful way.<br />
<br />
In one particular instance, it was a situation where the person was making the age old case that you have to spend money to make money.<br />
<br />
Now between the two of us, my husband and I have a little under $40k of student debt. My husband works in an industry that does not support its employees, in fact, they kind of shit all over them and then stomp on them, no matter how well trained they are. Of course, he makes too much money for us to qualify for government assistance. Our parents happen to live in one of the most expensive housing markets in the country, which means we have to live with them in order to have a place to stay and food to eat. My son has health care because of the ACA. Because of where we live, we have to commute to jobs, and because of a lack of childcare, it doesn't really make sense for me to work at this point.<br />
<br />
This is the stress I carry on my shoulders every day. <br />
<br />
I have tried a thousand and one tactics already to get my books into readers hands, and here is this person saying the only way I can be successful is by spending money. <i>Money</i>. Something I don't have right now - haven't had for a few years.<br />
<br />
I wrote the guy and he actually wrote back, and said nothing I didn't already know. I was grateful he actually responded, but the response did something to me that was unexpected. He wasn't mean, in fact, he was very professional. But it was the fact that he told me things I already knew - things I <i>felt</i> like I couldn't do anything about.<br />
<br />
I broke. I just broke. Here was this guy who was supposed to be a guru and he was telling me things I already knew. I felt so defeated.<br />
<br />
Here I was, putting every last bit of soul and effort into this - and I still wasn't financially successful. I wasn't getting reviews. I wasn't getting people to buy my books. Granted, people love the books when they read them. Any time I talk to people about them they end up buying a copy. And loving it. Seriously. But I wasn't connecting to enough readers. People weren't coming across my books and buying them. I had a steady trickle of purchases, but nothing to write home about.<br />
<br />
I felt like a failure. I was ready to jump off a bridge. The thought actually entered my mind. I cried the rest of the day.<br />
<br />
Slowly reason seeped into my consciousness. <br />
<br />
The voice (in this case my father's) said: <i>You might not be able to buy another domain, but you could change the landing page to allow for multiple brands.</i><br />
Me: Okay, I can do that. Next week on update day I can do that.<br />
The voice: <i>Stop 'asking' for reviews. Call in all your chips. Tell anyone and everyone who you know has read your books - I need reviews.</i><br />
Me: Okay. I can do that. I'll do that.<br />
<i> </i><br />
I started doing that. I felt a little better.<br />
<br />
The voice came back (in this case my husband's): <i>You already knew the things this guy told you. Keep working at this. Keep tweaking things. Write a blog post about this. You have more.</i><br />
<br />
I did. I felt even better.<br />
<i> </i><br />
The voice came back a third time (in this case the one in my head): <i>There are more things I haven't done. Try them. See this through. I have a purpose. I am enough.</i><br />
<br />
So here I am. I have a purpose to my writing. I want to educate empathy - specifically compassion. I want everyone to know what is possible in books, with characters, with life. I want to be a catalyst for social change. I want to leave a legacy for my son. This is my purpose.<br />
<br />
When there is a purpose, things happen. I believe that. I have everything I need to realize my purpose. I believe I will encounter those driven to work with me. There are no accidents. No coincidences. There is will, and therefore way.<br />
<br />
I am sharing all this because I know I'm not alone. My situation is one that has played out many times before over the centuries. I know every modern author isn't in quite as dire of straits as I am. A lot of writers have day jobs, or spouses who essentially sponsor them. I know a lot of people do not need their writing to work for them. And it is nice to have that. There is comfort in that.<br />
<br />
I am not comfortable which is why I need you to understand exactly what is at stake for me - for people like me. I need you to know me. To understand my drive. To understand why I struggle every day to do and be more.<br />
<br />
When you read my books, understand that through everything, I am baring myself. I am giving you a piece of me to carry with you. When you read my books, you are participating in my life through the lives of my characters. That is the gift I am giving you.<br />
<br />
Now tell me, what is it worth? Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05634264247783669380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7487646081332167031.post-60026471705676570982015-07-14T12:21:00.000-07:002015-07-14T12:21:07.368-07:00Starting from Scratch in Fantasy Cosplay<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKyyI2ktw2c81QjOk1pwHEZ86A47JIjCjn0_CfHeDUY4I_wVH4y4zDXxUyvPQAiyC2VxSx06WBiAX_v7Q8wQAIJsIvE5zmNNBFBbgSyCFGqZk3qXy6yIDbEsm5hQBXTxAu3WRBeKaUGno/s1600/100_1889.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKyyI2ktw2c81QjOk1pwHEZ86A47JIjCjn0_CfHeDUY4I_wVH4y4zDXxUyvPQAiyC2VxSx06WBiAX_v7Q8wQAIJsIvE5zmNNBFBbgSyCFGqZk3qXy6yIDbEsm5hQBXTxAu3WRBeKaUGno/s320/100_1889.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">WonderCon 2011</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I have a dream - a dream of fantastic costumes and hairstyles. Of <a href="https://www.smashwords.com/books/byseries/10938" target="_blank">Khloe Alwell</a> made real.<br />
<br />
When Kiddo was little, and unaware of everything beyond 12 inches from his face, I watched the <a href="http://www.syfy.com/" target="_blank">SyFy</a> channel religiously (I mean, those are my people). My favorite shows were the reality special effects shows, like <a href="http://www.syfy.com/faceoff" target="_blank">Face Off,</a> but I also found <a href="http://www.syfy.com/heroesofcosplay" target="_blank">Heroes of Cosplay</a> fascinating. I love how people transform into fantastic characters before my eyes. It scratches that part of my creative brain. But I've never done it myself.<br />
<br />
I do not consider myself a hardcore fantasy/sci-fi nerd, by any stretch. I hardly count as a fan. Periodically I dabble. I mean, I've watched some anime. I've read <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dragonriders_of_Pern" target="_blank">Pern</a> books. I grew up with Star Trek, Aliens, <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0091369/" target="_blank">Labyrinth</a>, and The Princess Bride, but I never really dove into the fan culture. I never owned comic books. I never played Magic or <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Live_action_role-playing_game" target="_blank">LARPed</a>, or anything of the sort.<br />
<br />
I comfortably straddled the fence between genre nerdom and popular culture.<br />
<br />
So even though I also knew a <i>lot </i>about art, I didn't learn much about fabrication. I had no real impetus to learn. I didn't involve myself in drama, or in cosplay. I can barely work a sewing machine (mostly because I haven't practiced...at all).<br />
<br />
And then I went to a comic convention. It scratched that part of my creative brain. I read about characters that I might cosplay, that Christian and I could cosplay together (we decided Thor and Sif were probably the most look-alike comic characters).<br />
<br />
But... now that Khloe is finished as a series (read: shedding single tear), I really want people to fall in love with her the way I have (and everyone in the Otherworld does in the books). So Christian and I were talking about it, and an idea was born.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://scontent.fsnc1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/307724_563575733310_1530799749_n.jpg?oh=b32a4d0c7d5b203c7887349bb02942e0&oe=56146AD3" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://scontent.fsnc1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/307724_563575733310_1530799749_n.jpg?oh=b32a4d0c7d5b203c7887349bb02942e0&oe=56146AD3" width="268" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">If I was a character in a graphic novel...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Christian: Alexis, why don't you cosplay as Khloe? I mean, are there any outfits that would work?<br />
*I blush*<br />
Christian: Did you just blush?<br />
Me: Some of the outfits are...<br />
Christian: Really?<br />
Me: I mean, they're tasteful, but they are definitely...uh...<br />
Christian: Hm.<br />
Me: I mean, I would love to cosplay as Khloe. I love the clothes. I just don't know how I would make them look like they are in my head.<br />
Christian: Do you know anyone who cosplays? Who might help you?<br />
<br />
Ahem. So, that's where we are. Do I know anyone who cosplays? Who could help me fabricate this? Or who would want to fabricate it? These are involved outfits, some of which would be pretty intense projects, but also might put a person on the map (judging from the things people look for in the Heroes of Cosplay show).<br />
<br />
Leave a comment below or message me: http://facebook.com/authoralexisdonkin or twitter @alexisdonkin<br />
<br />
I'm so serious about this, so if this is a project you'd be interested in, please let me know!<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05634264247783669380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7487646081332167031.post-86654673812935912562015-07-13T12:08:00.000-07:002015-07-13T12:08:21.984-07:00How to be an Indie Author 4: Formatting<i>This is the fourth post in a series about self-publishing from ideation through sales. To check out other posts in this series, <a href="http://alexisdonkin.blogspot.com/search/label/indie%20author%20series" target="_blank">click here</a>.</i> <br />
<br />
<br />
Last time I wrote about <a href="http://alexisdonkin.blogspot.com/2015/07/how-to-be-indie-author-3-editing.html" target="_blank">editing</a>, which most writers think of as the bear in the process. I'm here to tell you, that formatting is just as tedious, if not more so. This is where the real work for the indie author begins.<br />
<br />
<h3>
The Indie Difference</h3>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMGTv7l3xDc5IqQ2PMl6y6vs1I0NcyR5L1-wi6bAU3QFb3DoKo-wKxvK5fPfWLSxEVTb9_ukzfnqbQ46k2zxR4UZ70iDNvn-DPy1eGlG92hTpgDxDHmbHfVfLKp_boEkfUkJSJNmkzrQ4/s1600/indie+author+tools.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMGTv7l3xDc5IqQ2PMl6y6vs1I0NcyR5L1-wi6bAU3QFb3DoKo-wKxvK5fPfWLSxEVTb9_ukzfnqbQ46k2zxR4UZ70iDNvn-DPy1eGlG92hTpgDxDHmbHfVfLKp_boEkfUkJSJNmkzrQ4/s320/indie+author+tools.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Indie tools: coffee, notepad, pen, & laptop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Formatting is a serious difference between traditionally published and independent authors. The reason is simple - this is the beginning of the publishing process.<br />
<br />
Before we were working on the content. Editing, is really polishing content. Formatting, however, is making sure content is accessible in whatever form a manuscript takes.<br />
<br />
For the purposes of this discussion, I'm going to talk about both digital and print-on-demand publishing. While there are many options in the wide world of digital and POD publishing, I will dive into the reasons why I made the choices I did for the distributors I did etc.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Digital</h3>
First, it should be noted, choosing a distributor will change your formatting process because different distributors do different things. For the most accessibility, I recommend the following things:<br />
<ol>
<li>Set up a style throughout your manuscript (for example first line indent for text body, chapter title/heading style for section titles).</li>
<li>Get rid of any extra spaces unless they are necessary for content readability (extra lines, extra spaces, extra indents).</li>
<li>Embed fonts if you're attached to them.</li>
<li>Include a message at the beginning of your document reminding people if they got your book for free, to buy a copy because it was a lot of work to produce the book.</li>
<li>Include an "About the Author" section at the end with a little bio about you.</li>
<li>Include a "Connect Online" section that has all the major places readers can find you online.</li>
<li>If you're really tech savvy, create hyperlinked table of contents that allows readers to jump easily to chapter headings (I'm not tech savvy, so I don't have this in my docs because every time I try things explode.).</li>
</ol>
Keep in mind, different file types will look differently in digital readers. If you have a reading app on your phone, ereader, or app on your computer, USE THEM. This is especially important when you're starting out because you won't have a system in place. That said, once you've done this a few times, it will become second nature, and you may decide to skip the ereader review altogether (like I do, for better or worse).<br />
<br />
Also important to note is different distributors have different capacities. Some will only provide a single file type, like MOBI or EPUB (the most common). If you have to choose one kind of file, choose an EPUB file. However, I would strongly recommend that you not limit yourself to one type of file or one place to be read.<br />
<br />
That said, if you have any confusion around formatting, or the distributor rejects your document for some reason, most have a guide or FAQ that you can reference for assistance. <a href="http://www.smashwords.com/" target="_blank">Smashwords</a>, my <a href="https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/alexisdonkin" target="_blank">ebook distributor</a>, has a ton of <a href="https://www.smashwords.com/about/supportfaq" target="_blank">resources</a> for authors (and readers!) which are very accessible and easy to understand.<br />
<br />
If you read all this and it stressed you out, however, you can pay someone else to format your work for you or buy a template to use. The cost varies significantly, and I cannot make recommendations this way because, well, I've never been a la cart. I've always been a bootstrapper (<i>If you have recommendations for formatting services or templates, please comment below!</i>).<br />
<br />
<h3>
Print-on-Demand</h3>
The second kind of formatting fun is, well, worse. Formatting for print is, as a friend once said, an art form. To format from scratch takes finesse and deep knowledge of printing.<br />
<br />
Before you go through the nuts and bolts, make sure you include - just as you did for your digital copies -
"About the Author" and "Connect Online" sections at the end of the
manuscript.<br />
<br />
Now that everything is where you need it, <i>be sure you have selected your printer/distributor.</i> Formatting requirements vary widely from company to company, and one set of formatting choices may not translate to another company.<br />
<br />
In my next post on publishing, I'll talk about the reasons why you might choose one printer/distributor over another, but for the purposes of formatting, let's just recognize the two choices available (similar to digital):<br />
<ol>
<li>Use the template provided by the printer.</li>
<li>Pay someone to go through the process for you.</li>
</ol>
If you use the template provided, make sure it matches the size of book you want (6'x9' for example). Make sure the pagination places everything on the correct page. So, the title page should have the binding margin on the left. The table of contents should start on a page with the binding margin on the left, etc.<br />
<br />
If you pay someone else to do this for you, make sure they are comfortable with the printer/distributor you plan to use and you clearly communicate what size book you intend to have (5'x8' or 6'x9' or ?). <br />
<br />
Even if you pay someone else to do this for you, <i>check every chapter.</i> Make sure there are no pages with a single word on them. Make sure the chapter headings are consistent. Make sure the fonts are what you want. Make sure the pages are tracking. Double check that binding margins are where they need to be. THIS IS IMPORTANT! If anything is wrong with the formatting, it <i>will slow everything down.</i> You will have to change the document, go over it again, and possibly again.<br />
<br />
I cannot stress the importance of formatting. Once you have this process down, it makes everything easier and faster. But it does take some time to get comfortable and confident in this (I'm just now comfortable with POD and it's been almost 4 years since I started doing it!).<br />
<br />
**************************<br />
<i>Do you have any tips or tricks to make sure your formatting is correct? Have any horror stories to share? Leave a comment below!</i><br />
<br />
<i>Check out my next post in this series on publishing where I will talk about why I chose the distributors/printers I did. </i><i><i>And to support your local, lovely indie bootstrapper, visit my <a href="http://alexisdonkin.com/" target="_blank">website</a> to donate or buy my books! All the links on my site give me maximum royalty percentages, as opposed to supporting big companies. Buy a book there and see how my formatting went (or didn't!).</i> </i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05634264247783669380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7487646081332167031.post-71494220068913937052015-07-08T15:16:00.000-07:002015-07-08T15:16:02.120-07:00THRIVE: 5 Sites for Strength & Light<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnAjj3ex6ZhZnkntKe7iYr7jIv4X3BoIVCUCgk8BhPADjm-GAt81qezTwHq2JBYn2oEiQju8GYV89wfkExH2Lf9HMOhTXaxxoDTt7l_9TyVP09sQAmfKvGeG-F59LgFytnVaCff5Dpw9c/s1600/IMAG0663.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnAjj3ex6ZhZnkntKe7iYr7jIv4X3BoIVCUCgk8BhPADjm-GAt81qezTwHq2JBYn2oEiQju8GYV89wfkExH2Lf9HMOhTXaxxoDTt7l_9TyVP09sQAmfKvGeG-F59LgFytnVaCff5Dpw9c/s320/IMAG0663.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Strength & light</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Sometimes, even those of us who have done some serious self-work need a little more inspiration to get over the rough stuff.<br />
<br />
This is why I wrote <a href="https://www.createspace.com/5499900" target="_blank">THRIVE: HOW I BECAME A SUPERHERO</a> in the first place - I wanted others to know it was possible to transform suffering, in multiple types of situations. And as I've been talking up the book, so many different inspiring people and resources came into my life. So I wanted to share some of that with you. Here are five sites that can give your life a little more strength and light, no matter where you are in your journey:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Defying Shadows' series <a href="https://defyingshadows.wordpress.com/tag/weallhaveastory/" target="_blank">#WeAllHaveAStory</a> - I discovered this through my fellow blogger Amy. This is an AMAZING undertaking with guest posts from many people, all sharing their different inspiring stories. It is definitely worth a read for inspiration and guidance on how to transform into an everyday superhero.</li>
<li><a href="http://sometalkofyouandme.com/category/health-wellness/" target="_blank">Some Talk of You and Me</a> posts in the health and wellness category are of particular interest to those of us wanting to THRIVE. There are some great personal essays that show different journeys of self-acceptance, persistence, and resilience in the face of life obstacles.</li>
<li><a href="http://themanifeststation.net/" target="_blank">The Manifest-Station</a> is a personal favorite. This is an online zine that is full of powerful, raw, empowering personal essays by women. Some posts are hard to read, but I always find myself renewed after I read something on this site. It is a spiritual experience and inspires a sense of solidarity between readers and contributors.</li>
<li><a href="http://honeyquill.com/" target="_blank">The Honeyed Quill</a> is a similar site to mine in that it mixes things like writing advice and experience, with resilience and healing work (such as contained in THRIVE). In fact, Shawna is working on a trauma writing workshop, which I think will be a great resource for people committed to the hard work of healing.</li>
<li>I have to give a shout-out to Amy at <a href="http://allspiceandacrylics.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Allspice and Acrylics</a>, because honestly, she is really amazing. This woman has an incredible will and inspiring story. Every time I read her words or interact with her, I feel her bubbling over with life and passion. I think it comes through in everything she does (I'm sure you'll agree when you check out her blog!).</li>
</ul>
<i>Do you have other sites that give strength and light to your life?</i> <i>Something that helped you thrive? Leave a comment below!</i><br />
<br />
<i>If you like what you read, be sure to visit my author <a href="http://alexisdonkin.com/" target="_blank">website</a> and donate or become a patron. Your support makes my writing possible!</i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05634264247783669380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7487646081332167031.post-28620482865978414222015-07-06T05:00:00.000-07:002015-07-06T05:00:10.415-07:00How To Be An Indie Author 3: Editing<i>This is the third post in a series about self-publishing from ideation through sales. To check out other posts in this series, <a href="http://alexisdonkin.blogspot.com/search/label/indie%20author%20series" target="_blank">click here</a>.</i> <br />
<br />
Last post I wrote about the <a href="http://alexisdonkin.blogspot.com/2015/06/how-to-be-indie-author-2-process.html" target="_blank">writing process</a>, or turning an idea into a first draft. Now that you have a first draft, you must begin the intense and stress-inducing process of editing.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSa4nt3U5KB4oerlLlT949Z2_wzu6JSE8j7EgCn7Fd9fY0tRQMCv2ryd9OrOsMHW8vKYoYr92jOy_iJ19iQrO-_Sb1KupTFTM_k6_iLvFWdVdk_vHXN3dHWRM56lXcD73opBKA2qn5LqY/s1600/2011-01-19-122220.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSa4nt3U5KB4oerlLlT949Z2_wzu6JSE8j7EgCn7Fd9fY0tRQMCv2ryd9OrOsMHW8vKYoYr92jOy_iJ19iQrO-_Sb1KupTFTM_k6_iLvFWdVdk_vHXN3dHWRM56lXcD73opBKA2qn5LqY/s320/2011-01-19-122220.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Editing is messy, but necessary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
When talking editing in writing circles, there is a lot of ambivalence, especially when thinking about publishers and "creative control" or final say over content and style.<br />
<br />
"I can't believe he made me take out that scene! It's my best written scene!"<br />
"I had to write out that character."<br />
"But I really love adjectives!"<br />
<br />
The list of complaints could go on however,<i> editing is necessary.</i><br />
<br />
Anyone who is a professional writer (or aspiring to be) understands the importance of good editing. Sometimes this means reworking a paragraph (or entire chapter) and other times it means slicing something in half. No matter what the requirement, the reason is always this: to create a more polished, precise, and effective piece of writing.<br />
<br />
In this post I'm actually lumping editing and proofing into one major process. When I taught composition, we separated these two things into editing (content) and proofing (grammar, spelling, punctuation). For me, these two processes are intertwined, which is why I will discuss both in a single post.<br />
<br />
<h3>
First, Edit</h3>
There are two camps about editing for the indie author, but for the purposes of this post, I'm going to share my process (which admittedly has its limits).<br />
<br />
Once I have a first draft, I let it sit for a while. Sometimes this means a month. Sometimes it means a year - it all depends on my publishing goals and how I feel about the manuscript generally.<br />
<br />
Then I do a first reading where I focus on making sure I've communicated major ideas, double check whether characters are developed enough, and "tie up loose ends." This often includes cutting out repetitive sentences, assuring balance in lists, and making sure I'm being consistent throughout the manuscript.<br />
<br />
This first read-through often includes correcting spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors, though it is not the primary focus. Ultimately, the focus here is content consistency/smoothness.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Then, Proof</h3>
Now that I have all the big fixes out of the way, I can move on to details. This is a second read-through where I double check all my "there, their, and they're" usage. Because let's face it, even though I know the difference, when I'm hammering out a first draft, I'm not always all there (see what I just did?). Sometimes I'm tired. Sometimes I'm thinking about the next chapter as I scramble to get my story all onto the page. So something gets lost in the writing, and I end up typing the wrong word.<br />
<br />
Now, this is where we start seeing the difference between Big 6 (as in Harper Collins and Penguin) published authors and the indie author. This is what also separates Riot Grrrl bootstrappers like myself, and a la carters.<br />
<br />
While Big 6 authors may go through this process before pitching their manuscript to an agent, they will get a professional proofreader courtesy of their publisher. Sometimes this is a good thing, and the person is really thorough and other times, they are a sleep deprived intern coffee-gofer. And an author won't know, except for a few typos still in the manuscript after publication (or too many adjectives, or not enough showing, and too much telling etc).<br />
<br />
Indie authors, especially bootstrappers, do this themselves.<br />
<br />
Let me repeat...bootstrappers do it on their own (this is me, I'm talking about here). So when there is a typo in the final manuscript, it's my personal fault. Seriously. And I got paid worse than a Big 6 publisher intern to not find it.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Hey! Beta, Beta, Beta!</h3>
The best friend of the bootstrapping indie is the beta reader. This is a third read-through, if you have the luxury of time, by someone else. Hopefully this involves several someones.<br />
<br />
The most success I have had with betas (and this is supported by other author friends) is to ask specific questions:<br />
<br />
"I'm having trouble in chapter 2, can you tell me if it follows well?"<br />
"I'm worried I might offend someone with this section of the piece, but I don't want to alienate readers. How does it read for you?"<br />
"I don't quite like this character. Tell me what you think."<br />
<br />
The key here is to find people who will give thorough feedback. Outside of teachers (read: ESL and English Lit), and other writers, this will be hard to find. A lot of people will say things to the effect of, "It's good. I liked it."<br />
<br />
*Blinks*<br />
<br />
Obviously this is unhelpful and doesn't give good direction as to what needs work. Sometimes people will be wary of giving feedback because they don't want to offend you. They worry that criticizing your work will create rifts in your relationship.<br />
<br />
Emphasize they have immunity. You are asking for specific feedback because you need it. Ask them to be completely honest. If they don't like something, tell them you need to know why. And say it's okay.<br />
<br />
This really makes a difference in a beta's comfort level. And you want them to be comfortable.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Hired Guns</h3>
If you have resources, you may fall into the a la cart category of indie authors (lucky you!).<br />
<br />
It is nice to have professional editors because they do this as <i>their job.</i> That means you are paying (often upwards of $200) for them to find all the errant apostrophes and theres. And they will.<br />
<br />
Which is great.<br />
<br />
The reason is it is a lot easier for someone else to find those little mistakes than it is for you. While beta readers are helpful, and should be used as a kind of test run for gauging the receipt of manuscripts, they are not professional. They are your friends, or some other writer you found through a Facebook Group.<br />
<br />
So if you can hire a professional editor, then do it. It will help you sleep better (Probably - I wouldn't know.). If however, you are like me, here are a few tricks to get another level of correction into your manuscript:<br />
<ol>
<li>Read it out loud. You'll find mistakes you didn't realize were there.</li>
<li>Use spell-checkers. Seriously.</li>
<li>Run your manuscript through grammar checkers (they aren't all created equal but you can find a few for free online...try at your own risk, i.e. proof it every other way too.).</li>
</ol>
<h3>
Finally</h3>
Some writers will over analyze and freak out about the editing portion of writing. And yes, you could pour over your manuscript for ages. You could go over it a thousand times and find something else to change.<br />
<br />
And that would be a waste of time.<br />
<br />
At some point you have to give up the neurosis of perfectionism and accept yourself (and therefore your writing) as good enough. Someone will always be better. Someone will always be worse. The more you go through this process, the better you will become.<br />
<br />
Also, debut books are almost always crap. I know, you've read some Big 6 writers that were God's gift to literature. That is the exception rather than the rule. Chances are those people wrote a ton before they ever wrote their first book. They may have been in ten writing groups, had professional writers go over their manuscripts, and of course, had the benefit of Big 6 publishing house resources.<br />
<br />
Forget them.<br />
<br />
Don't worry about them. This is about you and where you are. Getting out there is better than being stuck behind a process. Trust me. It is liberating.<br />
<br />
That said, do what you feel comfortable doing. If you can't handle putting out a book that is obviously a first attempt, then don't. If you need to go over your manuscript a thousand times, you're not ready to publish. Period.<br />
<br />
Indie publishing is not an easy path. It is not for everyone. And it most certainly can send perfectionists over the edge.<br />
<br />
If you have the opposite problem, like me, and you just want to get everything out and into the world as soon as possible because your voice is bursting out of you...wait a second. Force yourself to read through your manuscript another time. Ask at least one other person to read the damn thing. Really. You'll thank yourself later. Trust me on this, I learned that one the hard way (i.e. 2nd editions of <a href="https://www.smashwords.com/books/byseries/10938" target="_blank">KHLOE ALWELL</a> series for just that reason).<br />
<br />
***************************<br />
<i>What is your editing process? Have you used the strategies above? To what success? Leave a comment below!</i><br />
<br />
<i>Be sure to check out the next post in this series, formatting! And to support your local, lovely indie bootstrapper, visit my <a href="http://alexisdonkin.com/" target="_blank">website</a> to donate or buy my books!</i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05634264247783669380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7487646081332167031.post-3216230844117677082015-07-03T11:41:00.003-07:002015-07-03T11:41:55.335-07:00The State of Independence<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsCHRaceq1A2mBkyB0JiHKGW9dGiDrZgFXDGvBycPIJN_RSXOsz9XZHKF6BU8JdUKnpvwj5IvfftZUXN9H1MfK2BxhQwO0I95Jx1uOHRJytPC2nJg7CnHFLSgw2iC-YuS0yKV3sPW7V8Y/s1600/IMAG0497.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsCHRaceq1A2mBkyB0JiHKGW9dGiDrZgFXDGvBycPIJN_RSXOsz9XZHKF6BU8JdUKnpvwj5IvfftZUXN9H1MfK2BxhQwO0I95Jx1uOHRJytPC2nJg7CnHFLSgw2iC-YuS0yKV3sPW7V8Y/s320/IMAG0497.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No one is an island.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I've been thinking a lot about independence, specifically the ability to choose within a free framework, and the illusion of freedom.<br />
<br />
It bothers me that anyone thinks they are free - that they are independent. No one really is. The idea that anyone can function in a vacuum, completely devoid of outside influences (total freedom, a nearly Buddhist state) is impossible in the material world.<br />
<br />
You are <i>not</i> free.<br />
<br />
There are levels, a spectrum of freedom, on which we can claim more choice or less. There are independent thinkers (I count myself one) who are able to observe a situation and choose based on their established principles and ideas as opposed to being swayed by popular opinion or carefully crafted marketing materials.<br />
<br />
There are people who are independently wealthy (a flawed term, but for the purposed of discussion...) and able to control their environments by throwing money at problems, people, or things.<br />
<br />
There are people who choose to isolate themselves from society, taking to the wilderness, foraging and homesteading as requirements dictate.<br />
<br />
But in all these cases, pure independence, even in these situations, is impossible. <br />
<br />
The independent thinker is dependent on their faculties of observation, their socialized influences, their friends, and the news for input to come to conclusions.<br />
<br />
The independently rich person is entirely dependent on markets and systems that nurture wealth creation in order to maintain their status.<br />
<br />
The hermit is dependent on the knowledge accumulated by society from generations in order to actively choose and succeed in his lifestyle of isolation.<br />
<br />
The independent cannot function without outside assistance. They are, fundamentally, in relationship with the rest of the world. There is, no such thing, as independence (Happy Fourth!).<br />
<br />
I can't help thinking about these things in relation to the work I do daily. While I am an independent author (i.e. not associated with a publisher) I do not function in a vacuum. I require many systems in place in order to do the work I do. In fact, without these systems, technological innovation, and the democratization of information, my work would be impossible. I would cease to be.<br />
<br />
Unlike a large publishing house, I am a leaf on the wind. I can be blown this way or that by circumstances outside of my control. I can be crushed easily if systems are removed. I am still dependent.<br />
<br />
More than anything, I am dependent on your support. You are my most crucial system, my most cherished dependency - my reader. To do what I do, I am dependent on everything you do - buying, reading, sharing, gifting, patronizing, encouraging, reviewing, and rating. And I am comfortable with this "vulnerability." So this weekend when my American readers are eating hamburgers, hot dogs, and shooting off fireworks, remember those people on whom you depend, and those who depend on you. We are all connected. We are all dependent. And that is a good thing.<br />
<br />
*****************<br />
<i>As an indie author, I'm a bit like a local business and depend on the love and support of readers like you. Please check out my <a href="http://alexisdonkin.com/" target="_blank">website </a>where the "buy" links support me the most (and big business the least!). </i><br />
<br />
<i>You can also support me through becoming a <a href="https://www.patreon.com/alexisdonkin?ty=h" target="_blank">patron</a>! Even $1 helps (but the more you support, the more rewards you get!)!</i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05634264247783669380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7487646081332167031.post-26668593856647257502015-06-30T23:04:00.001-07:002015-06-30T23:04:20.493-07:00The End (A Poem)<i>There are so many thoughts running through my head. At first I thought I would just journal, but then I thought maybe there are some other people who are experiencing these things.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>So, as a writer tends to do, I will share. This piece reflects on issues within the last few chapters of THRIVE: HOW I BECAME A SUPERHERO and serves as a reminder that even when we've gotten through part of the journey, there's always more time to be in the crucible.</i><br />
***************<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq3b1J6578gFzRUXAC-SDOuwlfVOAEuvD2UwFwntTDf3jyavb-Fie48_U3kKRaqMf3WU_EhvhsE8Ci7x6bv-vlnMDcdlMvghlFJt3qo5e4p8Ho8Dir0t62SZLMH-TuhmUEU4dES46uHbo/s1600/IMAG0275.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq3b1J6578gFzRUXAC-SDOuwlfVOAEuvD2UwFwntTDf3jyavb-Fie48_U3kKRaqMf3WU_EhvhsE8Ci7x6bv-vlnMDcdlMvghlFJt3qo5e4p8Ho8Dir0t62SZLMH-TuhmUEU4dES46uHbo/s320/IMAG0275.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
How can a parent consciously choose something that would be bad for their child? How can a parent willfully choose the interest of a friend, stranger, or the altar of an all-mighty idea over the best interest of their child? Their grandchildren?<br />
<br />
How can a person not see what is in their best interest? How can a person not see what will be the best for their family? Community? City? State? Country? World?<br />
<br />
I thought these things were obvious. I feel like they are obvious. They are so GOD DAMN OBVIOUS HOW COME YOU CAN'T FIGURE THIS OUT?!?!<br />
<br />
It must be a lack of empathy.<br />
It must be some an attachment to a mental self unrelated to reality. So they vote for their pretend best interest, instead of reality. This is torture.<br />
<br />
Did you know there are black churches burning in the south? In a week. Less than every 2 days...one lights.<br />
<br />
The mustard dried up.<br />
And the brush burns.<br />
What a sickly gas!<br />
<br />
I cough and sputter when smoke blows on the wind. The sun grows dark and I close the windows hoping it passes - thankful for people trained, given full benefits, and protected by unions who brave the flames.<br />
<br />
And it's one thing when it's a dusty canyon. It's another when it's a wooden church. A church - a place of prayer, of love, hope, and peace. A sanctuary - where people seek shelter from the storms of life, of which there are so many....crossing the mid-west it feels like pinball.<br />
<br />
Bouncing us all around, pick a season, pick a weather - you will find it here!<br />
<br />
And here we are. And I keep watching people on their journeys, sharing their excitement - sharing their successes and while I smile I can't help feeling I should be further along.<br />
<br />
I was supposed to be further along.<br />
<br />
I'm supposed to be more than I am.<br />
<br />
I was supposed to have a house, a newer car, a career, a savings account. I was supposed to have a name for myself. I was supposed to be established. I was supposed to feel secure.<br />
<br />
I was, I was. I was!<br />
<br />
But I am. I still am. It is hard to read another peer bought another house. It is hard to see another peer beginning their family in safety and comfort. They don't have my worries. They don't feel my squeeze.<br />
<br />
I remind myself this is transition. I remind myself this is not forever. I refuse to let this be much longer. I refuse to withstand this longer. I can't watch my husband sacrificing so much - so much, for so little. He deserves so much more. We deserve so much more. Our son deserves so. much. more.<br />
<br />
I will find it. I will get it. I will have this. I have this. I got this. Just a little more. Just a little longer. By this time next year, the world will look differently.<br />
<br />
I feel this. I know this. It sits in my gut, a burning coal.<br />
I could choke on the smoke, but I don't.<br />
I'm Ms. Fusion in a lake of flame.<br />
Nothing touches my heat.<br />
<br />
And you know, the world doesn't end with water.<br />
<br />
************************************************<br />
<i>For more about my story, read THRIVE: HOW I BECAME A SUPERHERO in <a href="https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/542304" target="_blank">digital</a>, and <a href="https://www.createspace.com/5499900" target="_blank">paperback</a>.</i><br />
<br />
<i>As an indie author, I'm a bit like a local business and depend on the love and support of readers like you. Please check out my <a href="http://alexisdonkin.com/" target="_blank">website </a>and become a <a href="https://www.patreon.com/alexisdonkin?ty=h" target="_blank">patron</a>.</i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05634264247783669380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7487646081332167031.post-11245826202456577722015-06-29T15:56:00.003-07:002015-06-29T15:56:57.225-07:00How To Be An Indie Author 2: Process<i>This is the second post in a series about self-publishing from ideation through sales. To check out other posts in this series, <a href="http://alexisdonkin.blogspot.com/search/label/indie%20author%20series" target="_blank">click here</a>.</i> <br />
<br />
Last post I talked about the way I come up with and vet my <a href="http://alexisdonkin.blogspot.com/2015/06/how-to-be-indie-author-1-beginning.html" target="_blank">book ideas</a>. This time, I'm going to talk specifically about turning those ideas into a first draft.<br />
<br />
<h3>
The Black Box</h3>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy-lVli60F81oPmsnVF5qpiCG2CNG0a0ZQq59i6B3UEkLBvd6oW039bV0PJHFVR-uh8OfnhkmMcm4qXlQD2vr22lWOG4JfNdyNc3NGoJpi41AeOI_HL2GOVPmnl_Akbn_z_2yVphmEClg/s1600/coffee+lappy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy-lVli60F81oPmsnVF5qpiCG2CNG0a0ZQq59i6B3UEkLBvd6oW039bV0PJHFVR-uh8OfnhkmMcm4qXlQD2vr22lWOG4JfNdyNc3NGoJpi41AeOI_HL2GOVPmnl_Akbn_z_2yVphmEClg/s320/coffee+lappy.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A writer turns coffee into manuscripts. Really.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
For many, the process of turning an idea into a first draft is full of mystery. How can a person sit at a computer for hours and hours and write anything coherent?<br />
<br />
Well, for me it functions differently depending on the kind of book I'm producing. For a novel, I often don't outline, at least not recognizably. I just sit down and start writing. I start with the main character, and the story develops as they interact with each new character. As the interactions build, outside forces begin to forge events, which cause characters to react (as happened in <a href="https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/158362" target="_blank">JAMES</a>).<br />
<br />
If the book is a sequel, I do have an end point in mind before I begin. I may have a list of questions I need to answer. Just writing them down is often enough to make sure they get addressed, but I do check the list as I write (such as what happened for <a href="https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/551788" target="_blank">FAMILY FRIEND OR FOE</a>).<br />
<br />
For nonfiction, I always decide the arc before I write. I write the introduction to give myself a framework, and then I write chapter titles or topics. This gives me the freedom to jump around as ideas strike me while holding true to the designated arc of the book. In nonfiction, I cannot sit still and write continuously as I do with fiction. Novels might hold my interest for 15 hours straight. Nonfiction will often require social media and current events breaks to keep me from burning out. <br />
<br />
<h3>
Discipline</h3>
Typically all this writing happens first thing after breakfast for several hours. Often I give myself a certain word count to complete daily, at the bare minimum. About half the time, I write more than my minimum goal.<br />
<br />
This is how I know I've made some progress. I feel accomplished even if I had a rough day. Today, for example, I was going to rewrite another 15 pages in FAMILY FRIEND OR FOE, however my toddler had an epic meltdown and I couldn't seem to get focused (courtesy of sleep deprivation) so instead I decided to write this post. I still have the afternoon and I still have to get this series done as a project, so it isn't a <i>loss</i>. It just isn't quite the direction I expected when I woke up this morning.<br />
<br />
And that is okay. I have my daily plan for a standard of measure. I have my long range plan to assist in my overall frame. I have self-imposed deadlines (now made easier with additional preorder options) for publication and I know approximately how long it will take me to complete any given book based on past experience. All these things are in place so I know how much more I need to do and how much progress I've made.<br />
<br />
No matter what derails me in a given day, I still wake up and write. I try to hold to my daily goals as closely as possible (which means I still have about 10 pages left to rewrite today). This is how I get things done. It is what allows me to maintain my insane pace and complete the amount of work I do despite being a stay at home mom with a moody hyperactive toddler.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Successful Completion</h3>
All this is to say, completing a first draft requires two main things:<br />
<ol>
<li>A working personalized process and</li>
<li>Commitment to the process through discipline.</li>
</ol>
Developing a personalized process does take a little trial and error, however reading stories like mine and using personal experience as a guide for what works and what doesn't will get you there faster.<br />
<br />
For example, I am an intuitive person, so I knew my preference for revelation in fiction as opposed to outlining things in meticulous detail. If I outlined my novels, I wouldn't finish them. Period.<br />
<br />
As for committing to using the process to see your first draft through, well seeing writing as a job helps. Breaking down your work into bite-sized chunks achievable in a day, a week, and a month makes a difference. It keeps you from getting overwhelmed. I can't tell you how many times I have looked at all the tasks involved in writing a book and become paralyzed. However, taking a breath and breaking it down into sections makes the whole thing a lot more manageable and tricks your brain into thinking it's a lot less than it really is.<br />
<br />
<br />
***********************************<br />
<i>What process do you use to write? Have you tried any of the above? If so, leave a comment below. I'm always looking to improve my process.</i><br />
<br />
<i>Check out next week's publishing post about editing and of course, be sure to visit my <a href="http://alexisdonkin.com/" target="_blank">website </a>to support your neighborhood indie author! </i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05634264247783669380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7487646081332167031.post-57194660828721255932015-06-27T12:17:00.001-07:002015-06-27T12:17:53.251-07:00THRIVE Launched, Now What?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_qylloZllHtspPAGWBHggM5LqEnJ2I-glDpbm2OTscV0Mh5d3JHwL9AAD3ZlcWqZC0GO0qWbjMCX1VQW0dcz51PsXVZBnyTY8FyXiZRq-4O6DzTyaIs3u-Oq9n0wZYfGztec8TKMxOA8/s1600/IMAG0291.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_qylloZllHtspPAGWBHggM5LqEnJ2I-glDpbm2OTscV0Mh5d3JHwL9AAD3ZlcWqZC0GO0qWbjMCX1VQW0dcz51PsXVZBnyTY8FyXiZRq-4O6DzTyaIs3u-Oq9n0wZYfGztec8TKMxOA8/s320/IMAG0291.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I've got a lot further to go.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I've been struggling the last few weeks. In the wake of THRIVE's publication, total exhaustion set in. I want to get a whole bunch of things done. I want to work. I know there are things I should be doing. I know this.<br />
<br />
I think part of me felt like I hit my milestone and that was that. The project was over and I could space out. And it was a lot of work. And some of it paid off, but mostly it was just the beginning of a larger lead up to more things....which mean the dividends haven't come in <i>yet.</i><br />
<br />
I've been reading a lot about this, especially through my author forums, which have proved invaluable (for which I thank Clara, as strategic a person in thought as I am in feeling). In these forums, muckety mucks slum around with us peons. And it is great for the peons, and gives perspective to the muckety mucks. We find out how much more we have to do, and they realize how much they've done.<br />
<br />
I have to say, honestly, it can be disheartening. I am at a disadvantage with what I am able to do (limited primarily by resources). But there are also things that encourage me - such as the reminder that this process is never over. Books do not stop selling - and with the internet, they can always reach more readers. There is always someone else who has not heard of me (Okay, in my case, at this point there are probably around 7 billion, but even for the famous author, there are probably 2 or 3B.).<br />
<br />
This is actually a <i>good</i> thing because it means I can always do more for a book - there is always more that could lead to sales. Also it is a bad thing, because, well, it is <i>never done.</i> <br />
<br />
Right now, after the insane push I made with THRIVE, some part of me thought the momentum was already there. That I could sit back and enjoy THRIVE having a life of its own. But I'm not there yet. I've hardly begun. It feels like the week after mid-terms where the tests are done, but there's another half semester to go. The nights of studying are not over. The note-taking is hardly finished. And I have <i>no energy</i>. And I'm struggling to get <a href="https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/551788" target="_blank">FAMILY FRIEND OR FOE</a> rewritten, which while turning into an excellent book, is going much slower than I'd like. I have until August 2nd to finish the manuscript and upload it to Smashwords (incidentally, you should <a href="https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/551788" target="_blank">preorder</a> it to get the 20% off price before it goes live!).<br />
<br />
And after that I need to work on <a href="https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/551795" target="_blank">ANDREW</a>, and redo all the <a href="https://www.smashwords.com/books/byseries/10939" target="_blank">Rollins Pack </a>covers, and revamp all those books, and finish proofing <a href="https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/551785" target="_blank">SIX DEGREES</a>.<br />
<br />
And while all this is going on, I need to continue working on speaking engagements about THRIVE, guest posts about everything, possibly blog hops, and remembering to eat and sleep... sometime.<br />
<br />
When I do all that, not only will I feel damn accomplished, but I will have transformed my life. And that is incredibly exciting, but it is also a lot of work. And I need to keep reminding myself that it is worth it. I need to keep developing better systems for getting everything done that needs doing, that assures forward progress.<br />
<br />
Here's to efficiency, effectiveness, encouragement, and energy! And crossing my fingers I get all four in hand...and soon!<br />
<br />
******************************************<br />
<i><i>Transform your life and heal through my memoir and small steps for 32 days!</i> </i><br />
<br />
<i>Get digital copies of <a href="https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/542304" target="_blank">THRIVE: HOW I BECAME A SUPERHERO</a> and <a href="https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/542316" target="_blank">TRANSFORM TO THRIVE: 32 DAYS FROM VICTIM TO SUPERHERO</a>! </i><br />
<br />
<i>You can also get paperback copies of both the <a href="https://www.createspace.com/5499900" target="_blank">memoir</a> and <a href="https://www.createspace.com/5500473" target="_blank">journal.</a> </i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05634264247783669380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7487646081332167031.post-55655109016107537572015-06-24T08:00:00.000-07:002015-06-24T09:42:16.679-07:00THRIVE Guest Post: Insatiable Hunger<span style="font-size: small;"><i>I am so excited to share this guest post by Amy Oestreicher. She is an amazing human being who embodies a superhero spirit. She THRIVES despite everything she has experienced. I hope you find her as inspiring as I do.</i></span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://amyoes.com/Artist/SmallImage/MixedMedia/35" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://amyoes.com/Artist/SmallImage/MixedMedia/35" width="255" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Follow Your Bliss" by Amy Oestreicher</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I am, and have always been hungry. When I was a child, I was
audaciously, passionately hungry for life, and theatre was my
nourishment. I had one goal: Broadway or bust. As a performer, I was
hungry to make a difference in the world. What attracted me to the stage
initially was the ability to give to the audience, to offer something
of myself, to make an impact on people. I was hungry to matter, to make
my mark. My days were spent making hammy home movies, begging my parents
for an agent as soon as I found out what one was, and dragging them to
the city for countless auditions. I was hungry for my future – I strived
for the best possible grades I could, applied to too many colleges, and
really believed in the endless possibilities that my life could hold
for me. I was raised believing that if I set clear goals for myself,
with a bit of hard work and strategy, they were achievable. – I could
experience life to the fullest and reap what it had to offer me with a
bit of perseverance.<br />
<br />
I experienced 18 years of this
ravenous, insatiable hunger. But weeks before graduation, I was
confronted with a new, unfamiliar, frightening type of hunger. Having
woken from my coma, I have a fuzzy memory of a doctor standing above me,
telling me I had no stomach anymore, I could not eat or drink now, and
he had no clue if or when I’d ever be able to again. And suddenly my
hunger ran deep – a helplessness in a world of uncertainty where
childhood dreams and goals were replaced with the drive to simply
survive. I was hungry for control of my life again, hungry for answers.<br />
<br />
There
was no “road map” to recovery for me, just the monotony and angst of
passing each day wondering when I’d ever be able to eat or even swallow a
single ice cube. Because I had no control or crystal ball, this was
merely a wish rather than a goal. Life became scary, surreal – I could
pick up food, smell it, feel it warm in my hands, but was forbidden to
put it in my mouth, knowing that this old, familiar friend was now
poison to my now-alien body, covered in bags, tubes, and adhesives. I
felt stuck in a routine that was out of my control, a pawn in a
dangerous game. My new goal: getting through.<br />
<br />
I then made
a promise to myself – as long as I was going to be hungry, I wanted to
keep my old hunger alive too by setting tiny goals for myself – like
trying to laugh once a day. These various mini-goals I set under a
larger umbrella of the bigger goal I’d manifest each day, more like a
desire that with enough dedication and faith would eventually come true:
To thrive rather than just survive. I refused to feel like a sick
hospital patient tied up with tubes, plugged in like a lamp, bags and
drains leaking everywhere. Even though this was my physical reality, I
fought against the feeling that I was weak or was less than person who
could walk, live, and eat freely. Not being able to sing, or leap across
a stage made me feel like I wasn’t myself anymore. So I did anything I
could to reclaim my identity. Hungry for myself and for life, which once
held endless wonders for me, I set a goal for myself to make a daily
gratitude list, even in the bleakest of circumstances.<br />
<br />
With
an intense desire to let the world know that I was still eager to make
that imprint on the world, I couldn’t allow myself to listen to doctors
who thought I was too weak to do anything but lie in bed. A month after
being discharged from the ICU, I landed the lead role in the musical
OLIVER! – tubes, bags, starving, and parched. I was so hungry for my
strength back that I put myself through my own physical therapy every
day, and ended up leaping across the stage in CATS. I still wanted to
make an impact on my community by teaching nursery school, learning
karate, and working on a cabaret act. <br />
<br />
With a new goal of
fearlessness, I didn’t let my new restrictions extinguish my passions.
Rather than avoid food, I became obsessed with it and learned how to
cook, starting a food blog and making Thanksgiving dinner for 30 guests,
still not able to eat a morsel. I played with my hunger by creating a
chocolate company, entertaining myself for hours making edible creations
for the business I had set up out of sheer starvation.<br />
<br />
Eventually,
I picked up a paintbrush…and my world changed. I found a way to
express things that were too complicated, painful and overwhelming to
put into words. The next year, I put hundreds of mixed media and
acrylic creations in an art show, displaying work that expressed
everything I’ve been through throughout these seven years. I didn’t
expect a turnout, but was surprised by hundreds of guests who came to
see what I had done all of these years, to know that I hadn’t just got
lost in the woodwork. I was still alive, still vital.<br />
<br />
I
was unexpectedly betrayed by my own body, tested, dehumanized, and put
back together, but differently, like a mosaic. Throughout the struggles,
I have always kept that spark of hope in the back of my throat, that
I’d be able to share my story, that I have survived this trauma for a
reason: to reach out to the world, like I once did as a performer for
something more than entertainment. After this detour, I still just want
to give to the world, and now I can in a deeper sense. Now I know that
my role in life is still to be that same passionate performer I once
aspired to as a child, but now with the even greater gift of a story to
tell.<br />
<br />
At 28, I still hunger to my mark on the world,
perform, finish college, and not let nine years of medical complications
and frustrations separate me from my dream of education, connection,
and spiritual fulfillment. I will still get there, perhaps by different
means, and even a different end. Now with satisfaction in my body, real
nourishment flowing through me, and true appreciation of little daily
blessings, anything is possible. Hunger has taught me so much and will
always be my intimate companion as I continue to crave inspiration, my
mark on the world, and everything life can offer me. Life has taught me
that goals aren’t always accomplished…which can be a blessing in
disguise. Thank you hunger, thank you life, for giving the opportunity
to discover new goals I didn’t realize I could achieve or even had
wanted in the first place. You have given my life unexpected meaning by
breaking the bonds of expectation.<br />
<br />
********************************<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial;">Amy Oestreicher is a 28 year old actress,
musician, teacher, composer, dancer, writer, artist, yogi, foodie, and general
lover of life. Surviving and thriving through a coma, 27 surgeries and
other trauma has inspired Amy to share her story with the world through her
passionate desire to create and help others. Piecing her life together
after her initial dreams of performing musical theatre took on a beautiful
detour into broader horizons. Amy has written, directed and starred in a
one woman musical about her life, Gutless & Grateful, has flourished as a
mixed media and acrylic artist, with her art in multiple galleries and mounting
dozens of solo art shows, and continues to share her story through her art,
music, theatre and writings. </span></span></i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></i></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial;">More information on her unique story, as well
as her creative ventures can be found at <a href="http://amyoes.com/" target="_blank">amyoes.com</a>, and visit her blog <a href="http://www.allspiceandacrylics.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">http://www.<wbr></wbr>allspiceandacrylics.blogspot.<wbr></wbr>com/</a>
for her newest art, music and inspirational musings. You can also visit her Etsy shop at <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/AllspiceandAcrylics?ref=hdr_shop_menu" target="_blank">https://www.etsy.com/shop/<wbr></wbr>AllspiceandAcrylics?ref=hdr_<wbr></wbr>shop_menu</a></span></span></i></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05634264247783669380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7487646081332167031.post-32553467179617606772015-06-22T15:23:00.004-07:002015-06-22T15:25:00.800-07:00How To Be An Indie Author 1: BeginningBy request, this is the first post in a series about self-publishing. I'm going to go through and every week there will be at least one
indie publishing post until I'm finished describing this process.<br />
<br />
Through the series I will explain every aspect of the process, as I've learned it, including the pain in the ass parts and the obvious easy bits. If you are starting from the beginning, this will save you a lot of grief. If you're coming at this from the middle, you may have something to add. That would be good too (i.e. comment!). There is always more to learn, more to understand, and room for improvement. As such, accept this for what it is - <i>my experience.</i> It is BY NO MEANS the singular authority on self-publishing. It will, however, contain a <i>lot</i> of information that will be valuable to anyone considering such a venture.<br />
<br />
I've written about indie publishing before, but always piecemeal. So<br />
I'm going to pretend you're starting from the beginning.<br />
<br />
That is, you don't have a book yet.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Beginning </h3>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOtMlZ0qRfWZJxj-4bYEwi1gN9YULR_2g8Pqpi_4ErG83Q87MKwVbMzAMiuwNZDMM1YeIMw5bzQBvCEagR01tExtF_-l4PG9IlGybTzFuq-ogyfloJBmPQ_DwXU7ryWf9iP6x507hL80g/s1600/thinking+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOtMlZ0qRfWZJxj-4bYEwi1gN9YULR_2g8Pqpi_4ErG83Q87MKwVbMzAMiuwNZDMM1YeIMw5bzQBvCEagR01tExtF_-l4PG9IlGybTzFuq-ogyfloJBmPQ_DwXU7ryWf9iP6x507hL80g/s320/thinking+pic.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Is this a<i> complete</i> book idea?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Everyone has at least material for one book. <i>At least.</i> That said, everyone should not write that book. Writing is for disciplined people - people who commit to seeing a project through to the end. Most people will start a book and never finish it. Sometimes they'll start it several times over. Sometimes they'll brainstorm, outline, and even create a wiki for their world.<br />
<br />
If that is all you can do, that's fine. Don't beat yourself up about it. Few people can handle the grueling process of writing a complete book.<br />
<br />
But let's say you are disciplined. Let's say you actually finish things. Let's say, you have nothing else going on for a month and you'd like to finish a manuscript.<br />
<br />
I've heard many different ideas about how to start, and how to finish. One that sounds good is to focus on a character. Develop a character, and then put them in a certain environment. Let the character drive the story from there, and they will, if they are a complete character. I like this as a concept, though I can't say this is how I write personally.<br />
<br />
Another is to have a kernel of a story, or format, or whatever the hook is.<br />
<br />
My first book, THE BROTHERS, was based on an idea of three real brothers, whose real story continues to fascinate me to this day. While the Grechs are not derived directly from these three boys, there are parts that are clear parallels. The idea of a fantasy novel based on them came to me twelve years before I wrote a single line of Khloe's story.<br />
<br />
BELOW THE BELT came from a very different place - the need to have a science-fiction story that would appeal to female readers while still maintaining classic elements of the genre. It is affectionately called my "sell-out" book because I tried to write something commercially appealing...and...maybe it is. It sold as many copies as any of my other books. The idea was flippant, and I added pieces based on my husband's feedback and knowledge of the genre.<br />
<br />
I can say, while I've publishing over ten books, I have probably twice as many ideas that never got off the ground. For one reason or another, I just never finished the books. So what's the difference?<br />
<br />
Even if you never finish anything normally, you still may finish a book if the idea is right.<br />
<br />
The idea must inspire commitment. This is especially true if writing is a hobby as opposed to your vocation. If the idea doesn't speak to you, you won't finish. Period.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Vetting Ideas</h3>
How do you know if an idea is good enough to carry you through to the end?<br />
<br />
When I started writing, I needed the idea to nag at me. When I say nag, I mean it needs to keep popping up until I can't ignore it any more. The story idea needs to reach a point where I have to write it down or else go crazy.<br />
<br />
This is why I have journals <i>everywhere. </i>And if it isn't a journal, it's a notepad. And if it isn't a notepad, it's an email to myself. I write down a few notes about whatever story kernel or character I have. If I find myself returning to that idea, imagining the next plot point or supporting characters or setting, then I know I need to write the book. This is especially true if I feel excited about the idea. If I keep thinking about the idea, but it drains my energy, it isn't worth my time. I probably won't finish writing it.<br />
<br />
And most likely, neither will you.<br />
<br />
<br />
***********************************<br />
<i>If you're starting out from scratch, does your idea feel like it will carry you through? If you have a finished manuscript, how did you decide on your idea? Leave a comment below.</i><br />
<br />
<i>Check out next week's publishing post about process and of course, be sure to visit my <a href="http://alexisdonkin.com/" target="_blank">website </a>to support your neighborhood indie author! </i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05634264247783669380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7487646081332167031.post-60534406401259892672015-06-15T12:54:00.000-07:002015-06-15T12:54:04.979-07:00It's THRIVE LAUNCH DAY! A.K.A. Labor of Love<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-fdFDRMRZl12LVvlekFEHBoaf30unVMWiJ_OWpCpJZTEw1W0JBGbRMU6244wMxpTA-UDNTjAgMpf2CvmRaiFJDUQR8p2ulES0GFH9TYnjY2gUjFoIr5mW-LZDpvmmW67_cIx9j4Ze3KE/s1600/100_1869.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-fdFDRMRZl12LVvlekFEHBoaf30unVMWiJ_OWpCpJZTEw1W0JBGbRMU6244wMxpTA-UDNTjAgMpf2CvmRaiFJDUQR8p2ulES0GFH9TYnjY2gUjFoIr5mW-LZDpvmmW67_cIx9j4Ze3KE/s320/100_1869.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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*Blinks*<br />
<br />
I can't believe I made it. Here.<br />
<br />
And yet, I feel like this is such a false, utterly arbitrary marker. It kind of feels like I planted a post months ago on this path, got here, and realized the path continues up a mountain, or down, or through a pass, or...<br />
<br />
You fill in the blank.<br />
<br />
For my writer friends, you may experience this anti-climatic moment in marketing. The truth is, THRIVE's launch is far from over. It is...well...forever. Until I die, really. I have the beginning of a second volume on THRIVE (at least the kernel of an idea), but that isn't what I'm talking about.<br />
<br />
I'm talking about talking. About sharing. About continuing to reach out to readers, victims, acquaintances, random strangers, organizations, schools, clubs, religious groups, conferences, and companies. This is a message that, while contained in my tiny narrative, is bigger than me. It is important. It is important to all people because fundamentally it is an approach to life.<br />
<br />
Around my 20th birthday, I did a small speaking tour in upstate New York about a mission experience (you can read about some of it in THRIVE in Chapter 6: Fear and Death). The big message I shared with church officials, clergy, and Christian youth, was love.<br />
<br />
Love.<br />
<br />
Compassion.<br />
<br />
And ultimately, this is the central message of THRIVE. It isn't quite the same message of that speaking tour, that was the golden rule - <i>love others as you love yourself.</i><br />
<br />
No. THRIVE's message is even more basic, if that is possible. It is - <i>love yourself.</i><br />
<br />
That's the thing. All the lessons, all the perspectives, all that stuff comes down to accepting yourself. If you can't do that, if you can't love yourself, you can't heal. If you can't love yourself, you won't treat others well. If you don't love yourself, you will live in a pit of despair when confronted by trauma or suffering.<br />
<br />
These are the two messages of my heart. Every person has messages they are meant to pass on. And mine is love. Love. LOVE!<br />
<br />
People may think these are overdone. Said too much. But they can never be said <i>enough</i>. They are so simple, so essential to every action, they are easy to forget. People lose track of these ALL THE TIME! So I'm here, put on this earth, to remind you. Despite everything - despite every hurt you experience - despite every evil act and experience - <i>do not stop loving.</i><br />
<br />
And when you forget, when it gets hard, read a book to help you. Read THRIVE. True superheroes love. They love despite. That is their gift and blessing. Be a gift. Be a blessing. Be a superhero, thrive, and love.<br />
<i> </i><br />
<i>****************************</i><br />
<i>Ebook versions of <a href="https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/542304" target="_blank">THRIVE: HOW I BECAME A SUPERHERO</a> and the journal guide, <a href="https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/542316" target="_blank">TRANSFORM TO THRIVE: 32 DAYS FROM VICTIM TO SUPERHERO</a> are on sale today June 15, for a little while longer! </i><br />
<br />
<i>Or get the paperback of the <a href="https://www.createspace.com/5499900" target="_blank">memoir</a> and<a href="https://www.createspace.com/5500473" target="_blank"> journal</a> for that traditional paper feel! ;-) </i><br />
<i> </i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05634264247783669380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7487646081332167031.post-14537390606992856862015-06-11T12:32:00.000-07:002015-06-11T12:32:41.820-07:00THRIVE: How to Become a Superhero<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxXW_GufTb9CI4suMFJa7rYf7rGiVQWQsGp3X0IaaHyeKLrFD1HPKlCdPyqSYTOWCid3oVPX130XEX4-HcAufdLKamsZVoaOHUDBax9hgyWF8PNUVq8-bcv-GI4-ECNKOObATAJ1hcjIc/s1600/100_1579+%2528Modified%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxXW_GufTb9CI4suMFJa7rYf7rGiVQWQsGp3X0IaaHyeKLrFD1HPKlCdPyqSYTOWCid3oVPX130XEX4-HcAufdLKamsZVoaOHUDBax9hgyWF8PNUVq8-bcv-GI4-ECNKOObATAJ1hcjIc/s320/100_1579+%2528Modified%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Take the chaos and shape it.</td></tr>
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If you're in a public place, look around. Look at the people nearby. If you're at home, or in your office, imagine some of your friends. Some of the people you know.<br />
<br />
Some of them are superheroes.<br />
<br />
You might not realize it. You may not know all the battles they've fought - all the things they've done. And they don't have spandex catsuits (or maybe they do?). They don't have alter egos. They don't have X-ray vision given to them by gamma rays or a weird mutation that allows them to extend bone claws out of their knuckles.<br />
<br />
These are not comicbook characters! That would be ridiculous.<br />
<br />
No. These people are bona fide heroes. They are testaments to the enduring nature of human spirit. They are beacons of hope in a world of chaos. They are pillars of strength in the face of weakness.<br />
<br />
But they weren't always this way. They went through a transformation. And no, it wasn't a genetically modified spider bite or falling into a vat of toxic waste that did it.<br />
<br />
More likely it was trauma. It was illness. It was death. It was poverty. It was shunning. It was being stripped down to the bone and being left to fend for themselves. And it sucked.<br />
<br />
This process is not <i>fun.</i> It is not <i>easy.</i> Being a superhero is not something you want to do - except it is.<br />
<br />
When life gives you horror, terror, pain, and despair, you have a choice. You can allow it to ruin you. You can allow yourself to be weighted down, to wallow, to die an agonizing death of the self. Or you can do something remarkable. You can refuse.<br />
<br />
You can embrace the pain and shape it in your hands into something you can use. And once you decide to do that, you are no longer on an ordinary path - you have chosen to be remarkable. And you are. Because everyone is not willing to do this hard work. There are no shortcuts in this process.<br />
<br />
You may be wondering, "Well, Alexis, why would I buy your book? I thought it would teach me what to do!"<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBDHFNmmA0Paw8nqyjJI26B1xzENxv1FGe50o0JQJalQLAb9KMiOPFAcc23i8vwphSs3PNq8jg461kvGh9B7oXZ8raTV5RX6Kik5XjuJ9SqMVaMcwjLFbBHC61UiKB2O_JKYPYaMKsEQA/s1600/100_1841.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBDHFNmmA0Paw8nqyjJI26B1xzENxv1FGe50o0JQJalQLAb9KMiOPFAcc23i8vwphSs3PNq8jg461kvGh9B7oXZ8raTV5RX6Kik5XjuJ9SqMVaMcwjLFbBHC61UiKB2O_JKYPYaMKsEQA/s320/100_1841.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
There are no shortcuts to the transformation. You can't be a superhero without pain. That's the rub. No one gets to that place without extreme experiences. You will suffer.<br />
<br />
I repeat - <i>you will suffer.</i><br />
<br />
But that's okay. Because with the right perspective, the right approach to problem-solving, to looking at your life, you can use those experiences.<br />
<br />
And the perspective requires learning and practice. It is the difference between saying "I am unemployed and therefore a loser." and "I am unemployed. I should write a novel since I have the time." When you've grown up surrounded by people thinking the former, the latter becomes difficult to do. Sometimes you need a guide. A little help figuring out how to change.<br />
<br />
THRIVE gives you specific lessons in changing your perspective. Each chapter has a story from my personal experience. In some cases they are disturbing. But in every case, I got through the experience and used it to grow or do something remarkable. And you can too, if that is what you want.<br />
<br />
And believe me, that is definitely something worth wanting.<br />
<br />
No one wants to suffer, but if you do, use it. Use it to become great.<br />
<br />
*********************************<br />
<i>Until June 15, ebook versions of <a href="https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/542304" target="_blank">THRIVE: HOW I BECAME A SUPERHERO</a> and the companion journal guide, <a href="https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/542316" target="_blank">TRANSFORM TO THRIVE: 32 DAYS FROM VICTIM TO SUPERHERO</a> are at a special price. Preorder and save! Or if you prefer paperback, order the <a href="https://www.createspace.com/5499900" target="_blank">book</a> and <a href="https://www.createspace.com/5500473" target="_blank">journal</a> today!</i> Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05634264247783669380noreply@blogger.com0