Some thoughts on fiction and life “These are the times that try men’s souls.” … Thomas Paine, December 23, 1776 This is the first sentence of Paine’s essay urging retaliation against Britain’s control over the colonies. Now, over two centuries later, both men and women must grapple with the aggressive Coronavirus pandemic. Fear. It can…
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How to Get Great Blurbs
Okay, maybe Oprah won’t welcome you with open arms onto the pages of her magazine, but you’ll still want endorsements from influencers before your book hits the shelves. BookBub and others have shown book descriptions featuring blurbs by reputable authors receive 30% higher click rates on selling platforms, so it’s a definite plus, particularly for…
The #Power of #Words!
Or, The Potential of Information. Perhaps, The Function of Declarations. Maybe, The Exquisiteness of Promises. Certainly, The Attraction of Whispers. What about, The Benefit of Written Languages? Don’t forget, The Satisfaction of the Best Word. Merriam-Webster presents many definitions of “word”. For example: 1) talk 2) any segment of written or printed discourse ordinarily appearing…
Do it Yourself Book Marketing
Over twenty years ago when I was fresh out of college, the only job I could find was doing business-to-business telemarking. It was a tough job at first. Awkwardly trying to convince people to do a survey, getting hung up on constantly. It was the worst. Today I cherish those memories because it taught me…
Managing a Critique Group
In February I attended the bi-monthly Western Slope writing workshop; this time it was about critique partners. I enjoy the RMFW workshops and attend them when I can spare the time to drive 120 miles to Grand Junction. It isn’t just the drive time. For residents of southeastern Utah, a meeting in G.J. takes all…