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Monday, 5 May 2008
Visiting With Colin Davis
Topic: Blog Tours

For the next few days, we will be visiting with author Colin Davis and exploring his book of short stories, Tall Tales on the Iron Horse. Please stop by and read an excerpt, enjoy my interview and drop Mr. Davis a comment.  His website is http://www.colinpdavies.com/

Colin P. Davies is a Building Surveyor from Liverpool, England, and has been writing fiction since the mid '80s. Most recently his stories have appeared in Bewildering Stories, Spectrum SF, 3SF, Paradox, Andromeda Spaceways Inflight Magazine and Asimov's.

 

His stories have met with a good response, making the Locus Recommended Reading List and the British Science Fiction Association Award nominations, as well as gaining two Honorable Mentions in The Year's Best SF. His story "The Defenders" was in The Year's Best SF #22, edited by Gardner Dozois.

 

Colin has now completed his first novel, The Bookmole, a comic fantasy for Young Adults based upon his short story "Clifford and the Bookmole," and is currently working on his second novel, Pestworld.

 

 

Tall Tales on the Iron Horse... Take a ride on the rails of fantasy as you journey to Titan inside the bowels of the Iron Horse. Witness a terrifying and deadly new game and meet a monster who will love you to death. Spend a little time with alien tourists, visit a real cardboard character, and dine in a restaurant where the food is expensive, but life is cheap.

 

Inventive and original, heartfelt and just plain funny, you will find nineteen fresh and surprising stories (including three new, never-before published) awaiting you in the first collection of short fiction from Colin P. Davies.

 

http://www.amazon.com/Tall-Tales-Horse-Colin-Davies/dp/0978744349/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1206819615&sr=8-1


Posted by joyceanthony at 4:12 AM EDT
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Sunday, 4 May 2008
Inner Trappings ( The Book Trailer)
Topic: Book Trailers

The following book trailer, created by Surreal Storm Creations, depicts the book Inner Trappings.  This book was written by Barbara Williamson-Woods, writer and poetess (This woman even talks in poetry!).  This is not a book of poetry, however, it is a suspense novel that will hold you mesmerized from start to finish. 

You can find more information on Inner Trappings at: http://windwalker32113_1.tripod.com/id1.html

Posted by joyceanthony at 12:48 AM EDT
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Saturday, 3 May 2008
Promotion Duo That Can't Be Surpassed
Topic: Book Review

I mentioned the other day that I'd give you some more information on The pair of books I will be awarding to one lucky winner, Promo-Paks by Janet Elaine Smith and The Frugal Book Promoter by Carolyn Howard-Johson.

I did a review of Janet's Promo-Paks that can be found here: https://joyceanthony.tripod.com/blog/index.blog/1791711/promo-paks-by-janet-elaine-smith-a-review/ and more information on Carolyn's The Frugal Book Promoter can be found here: http://books.google.com/books?id=MdIiPykwEkYC&dq=Carolyn+Howard+Johnson&hl=en&prev=http://www.google.com/search%3Fhl%3Den%26rlz%3D1T4GFRB_enUS256US256%26sa%3DX%26oi%3Dspell%26resnum%3D0%26ct%3Dresult%26cd%3D1%26q%3DCarolyn%2BHoward-Johnson%26spell%3D1&sa=X&oi=print&ct=result&cd=1&cad=author-navigational

These two women offer incredibly easy, yet very effective ways to promote your book.  The ideas can be modified to promote just about any product or service.  I truly believe that, by putting into action the tips they share, you will be in a position that eliminates the need for any other book on promotion.  Check out both books and then stop by the individual websites of these women.  You won't be disappointed!

Janet Elaine Smith's site: http://janet_elaine_smith0.tripod.com/

Carolyn Howard-Johnson's site: http://carolynhoward-johnson.com/

 


Posted by joyceanthony at 2:33 AM EDT
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Friday, 2 May 2008
Please Voice Your Opinion--Love Poll
Topic: Writing Ramblings

I am trying to gather some information for an article I'm writing and would really appreciate your help.  I have created a poll that will take less than five minutes to complete and would appreciate your input.  The poll can be found here:

https://joyceanthony.tripod.com/id19.html

 

Thank you!!


Posted by joyceanthony at 5:56 AM EDT
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Thursday, 1 May 2008
Writing Contest
Topic: Miscellaneous

Here it is folks, the first ever Rainbow Writing Contest!!!! 

 I thought it would be fun to have a contest for you guys, since you have been so great at sticking with me!!  Here's how it will work:

I will give you a brief scenario that must be included somewhere in your story.  Stories can run anywhere between 250 and 2000 words, so you have lots of room to play with.  In addition, any genre that would fit into G, PG or PG-13 is acceptable.  That pretty much opens up most genres. 

Additional rules can be found here: https://joyceanthony.tripod.com/id18.html

Of course there will be prizes--you didn't think I'd forget them, did you??:-)

First Prize will be either a book trailer or a trailer covering author's career and services--this will be author's choice--plus submission of said trailer to 25 video sharing sites. Video will be created by Surreal Storm Creations.

Second Prize will be copies of both Janet Elaine Smith's Promo Paks and Carolyn Howard Johnson's The Frugal Book Promoter.  (More information on each of these coming later this week).

Third Prize will be a surprise "rainbow package" with many rainbow-themed prizes included.

There will also be several Honorable Mention prizes.

Every semi-finalist will also be given a Rainbow Award of Writing Excellence to post on their website or blog.

The judging will take place in two parts.  First, a panel of six judges will read and rate each entry and he highest-scoring 25 entries will move into the semi-finals.  Here is where it gets fun.  These entries will be posted on my website for two weeks and viewers will vote on their favorites. 

Now for the scene that must be included:

It is almost night and there are several police cars with their lights flashing at a scene surrounded surrounded by yellow police tape.  Off to the side of this scene, a shadow of someone watching can be seen on the grass.

Okay....the rest is up to you!!!  

Again, please check out the rest of the rules at:

https://joyceanthony.tripod.com/id18.html

and get your entries in by May 31, 2008.

Have fun!!!


Posted by joyceanthony at 5:36 AM EDT
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Monday, 28 April 2008
Upcoming Events -- Blog Tours and a Writing Contest
Topic: Miscellaneous

I thought I'd take a moment today to let everyone know what is coming up for the month of May.  Besides the usual book reviews--I will be posting at least five within the next few weeks, there are several book trailers I want to share with everyone.  These were created by the up and coming Surreal Storm Creations.

 May will have four very exciting blog tours.  May 5-8, we will be visiting with Colin Davis, author of Tall Tales of the Iron Horse.  Christie Kremer, author of If Only, willl be paying us a visit from May 13-16.  Dyan Garris, who recently spent time here discussing her book will be back from May 17 thru May 20--and this time we get to explore all her wonderful works, from music to books and angel cards.  She will honor us with a live chat on chakras at 8PM EST on May 20.  May 21-May 24, our visitor will be Peter Knight with his interesting title 33 Worst Mistakes Writers Make With Firearms.

As if all this wasn't plenty, may will see my First Annual (I hope it will become annual!) Writing contest.  I'll be giving the details of this contest tomorrow, so don't forget to come back and check it out!!!

                                         


Posted by joyceanthony at 1:18 AM EDT
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Friday, 25 April 2008
Getting to Know Margaret Norton
Topic: Author Interview
Margaret Norton the person:

1. What three words do you think describe you as a human being?
How do you think others would describe you?
 

Compassionate, Serious, Hard Worker

2.  Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing.

My children and grandchildren

3.  Do you have any pets?  If so, introduce us to them.


One cat I adopted from a shelter. His name is Falcon

4.   What is your most precious memory?
 

Any memories involving my father and sister. Both are deceased.

5.   What is your most embarrassing memory?
 

A piano recital when I was 12 years old. I forgot the music.

6.  If you weren't a writer, what would you be doing with your life?
 

I have been working in the mortgage industry since 1994. The last few years the work has been unsteady and I've been trying to transition out of that to become a full time Personal Life Coach and Writer. If I had not decided to do this I would probably still be trying to stick it out in that field.

7.  In two paragraphs or less write your obituary.

Margaret, sometimes called The Cat Lady, was a person who gave her best to everyone and everything she was involved in. Some people viewed her as quiet and serious which she was. But that was because she was a deep thinker and very analytical. She believed she learned more by listening than by talking. She was honest, dependable and loyal. She liked people but was very content spending time alone.

Those who knew Margaret well describe her as a survivor and fighter.

She overcame several abusive relationships and endured mistreatment from her family. As a Christian it was her faith in God that helped her forgive and learn to love those who had hurt her deeply. After that she became a passionate fighter against all forms of abuse. In her book, When Ties Break/Thriving After Loss, she used her own life to show how easy it is to make mistakes. But she did not view these as failures but rather as opportunities to keep trying. She  became know for the statement she coined "Life gives you many chances to start over again, life a cat with nine lives."

Margaret Norton the writer:

8.      Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a "real" writer?
 

In March, 2008 one of my articles was published, along with my picture, in a local newspaper.  I've had several articles published other places but there was something about being in the paper that made me feel like I was a real writer.

9.    What is going on with your writing these days?

As I mentioned above I have been transitioning from my old career to writing. I'm still learning and exploring different types of writing. I'm taking a creative writing class with Long Ridge Writing Academy with the hopes of having some of my articles published in major magazines. Two months ago I discovered the avenues of writing available on the internet and started to pursue jobs as a freelance writer. I've completed four paying jobs and I'm working on four more.

10.  What are your future goals for your writing?

My biggest goal at the moment is praying that my agent will find the right publisher for my book. Once the book is published I hope it opens doors for me to be more involved in programs aimed at stopping abuse. I would like to eventually write a second book. One of my goals is to make enough money as a writer (combined with Personal Life coaching clients) to support myself.

11.   Can you describe a typical writing day for you?
 

Because I have still been working mortgage jobs none of my days are typical. An ideal day for me would be: Sleep until I wake up. Have my morning coffee & a light breakfast. Daily devotion, meditation & prayer. Go for a short walk. Then spend some time writing. Finish up in the early afternoon leaving most of my evenings free. I'm not there yet but that's what I'm working toward. Now I'm doing so many things because I'm still learning how to write, promoting my freelance business, taking classes, entering contests, submitting articles, etc.

12.  Why do you write?

I started writing in 2005 after 8 people connected to me died. It was therapy and I was searching for answers. When I shared my work with several people they encouraged me to think about writing more. It was then that I turned my journals into a book. I discovered that I enjoyed writing. But more importantly I feel that I have a message to convey.

13.  What writer most inspires you?  Why?
 

There are many writers who have inspired me through the years. It would be difficult to name  just one. A writer who makes me think, challenges me to change and forces me to view things differently inspires me. I have a fondness for self-help books. I am always inspired by the Bible.

14.  How do you define your writing?

That's difficult because my style is still developing. I'm leaning toward nonfiction, especially creative writing where I share my experiences to help others. I struggle with that because I worry that people will become bored hearing about me and it is sometimes difficult to talk about myself. But I do have many stories to tell.

15.  In one sentence-what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

Margaret's writing helped me to better understand abuse and motivated me to make changes in my own life.

Margaret Norton the details:

16.  Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website?  Blog?

http://www.margaretnortonlifecoach.com/

http://www.whentiesbreak.com/ 

 http://www.whentiesbreak.blog.com/

17.  Is there a place where readers can reach you?
 

My email address is margnorton@gmail.com

There's a contact form on my web sites and a sign up for my monthly newsletter.

18.  Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

 Short Story published in A Light Along the Way

 Short Story published in Story Circle Network Quarterly Journal

Blog for http://www.financiallearn.com/ & http://www.insuranceproducts.com/

Articles published with Ezine, Xomba, AC and How to do Things (on line magazines)

These are not book titles but as a new writer this is a good start.

As soon as my agent finds a publisher I will have more details on   my upcoming book. I have titled it, When Ties Break/Thriving After Loss, but the publisher may want to change that.  

19.  For new readers-what can they expect when they read your book(s)?

To know everything about my life. A story about beating the odds,       surviving difficulties, never giving up. A happy ending. Should encourage and uplift many people. It has a little of everything:

coming of age story, sibling abuse, raised by a farmer/marine/minister father and mother who spend time at insane hospitals, dealing with speech problems & chronic illness,

bad choices - bad men - bad marriages, spouse abuse, adultery, abortion, betrayal, divorce, single mother, remarriage, step families, children who were abused & struggled with ADD & ADHD, drug addition, homosexuality, bankruptcy, failed business, death of my sister, father and brother, angry at God & struggle to understand my life, and low self-esteem.

All of this would be more than enough but none of these were the defining moment in my life. To learn what happened to me that shattered my whole world and hurt me so deeply that it took years to recover ... you will have to read my book. 

In conclusion:

20.  Take as much space as necessary to speak to our readers-what would you like them to know about you and your writing?

As open and honest as I've been in the above comments there's not   much more to say.   Sometimes people ask me very cautiously what I think is so special about my life that I would want to write a book about it. I am quick to comment that I don't feel my life is special at all. I've had more than my share of problems for which I am grateful. This made me who I am today. Everyone has a story to tell but not everyone can tell their story. I have changed the names of the people in my book but it is a true story - not a James Frey situation - I had so much stuff I did not need to exaggerate or add details. People who know me and my family will recognize the characters in the book. Most people are not willing to put the dirty details of their life and their family under public scrutiny.   I did not plan to write a book. But rather I felt compelled to share my story with the world. Not enough people speak out when they are mistreated. Not speaking out is almost a passive form of acceptance. But there are many who can not speak out, for one reason or another. I am speaking on their behalf. I think others can learn from my mistakes. I think I can make a difference in the world by telling my story. It wasn't that I wanted to talk about myself but rather this was something I felt I must do. A calling or ministry of sorts.

 


Posted by joyceanthony at 12:01 AM EDT
Updated: Friday, 25 April 2008 2:22 AM EDT
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Thursday, 24 April 2008
Getting to Know Elaine Cantrell
Topic: Author Interview
Elaine Cantrell the person:

1.   What three words do you think describe you as a human being?

First, I'd have to say I'm a laid back sort of person.  Most things sort of roll off my back, but if I feel strongly about an issue I don't mind standing up for myself.  Second, I'm passionate about what I do.  I've been teaching social studies for 28 years, and you can't do that unless you're passionate about it.  Since I've been writing I'm equally passionate about that.  Third, I'm loyal, loyal to my friends, my family, causes I support, etc.

2.  How do you think others would describe you? 

Oh, pretty much as I've described myself.  I didn't really think those up on my own.  My friends have told me those things throughout the years.

3.  Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing. 

I suppose my family.  I have two sons and three fine grandchildren.  If you know a grandmother who thinks her grandchildren are just perfect then you know someone just like me.

4.  Do you have any pets?  If so, introduce us to them. 

I have two mean cats and one nice dog.  One mean cat, Perci, belongs to my husband.  She was a stray who followed him home, and he fell in love with her.  He made me take her to the vet, get her shots, the whole nine yards.  She repaid me by disliking me and falling for him.  He can't pet any of the other animals.  If he does she'll jump in his lap and get between the two of them.

5.  What is your most precious memory? 

Every time something wonderful happens I believe it will be the most precious memory, but truthfully, that's too hard a question to answer.  My life is sprinkled with amazing memories.  I can't pick just one.  The most recent, though, is what my grandson said to me on Sunday.  I was getting in my car to go home, and he said, "Grandma, don't leave me."  Then he ran over and hugged me.  It'll be a long time if ever before I forget the sweetness of that moment.

6.  What is your most embarrassing memory? 

This one's easy.  A local woman gave a reception for me when my first book came out.  When I went into the dining room to get some refreshments I picked up a cracker that had some kind of spread on the top.  As I brought it to my plate, it broke in two, and one part fell into the punch bowl.  That was truly an awful moment.

7.   If you weren't a writer, what would you be doing with your life? 

Thinking about retirement from the school system and wondering how I'd be able to fill the hours.  

8.   In two paragraphs or less write your obituary. 

New York Times best selling author Elaine Cantrell died today...  Okay, let me dream. 

Elaine Cantrell the writer:

9.  Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a "real" writer? 

It's been four years since my first book came out, and I still don't feel like a real writer.  It still seems impossible to think that I've signed five contracts.  I'd dreamed about it for so long! 

10.  What is going on with your writing these days? 

I still want to write in the romance genre, but I'd like to try an inspirational romance and maybe a sci fi romance.

11.  What are your future goals for your writing? 

My goal is to write the best story I'm capable of writing.  I want my writing to improve with each book I write.   I want my readers to hate to turn the last page because there isn't anymore.

12.  Can you describe a typical writing day for you? 

When I'm not working I get up around eight, have breakfast, and write until lunch time.  After lunch I do errands, chores, etc.  After dinner I'll write a little more.

13.  Why do you write? 

Because I can't help myself.

14.  What writer most inspires you?  Why? 

Karen Kingsbury inspired me to try an inspirational romance.  Others whose writing inspired me are Danielle Steele, Elizabeth Peters, oh too many to name.

15.  How do you define your writing? 

I'd define my writing by saying that I write about things that could happen to ordinary, everyday people.  After people read my work I want them to think, "Wow, that could be me she's talking about."

16.  In one sentence-what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years? 

Too bad there aren't any more stories.

Elaine Cantrell the details:

17.  Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website?  Blog? 

My website is at http://www.elainecantrell.com/.  At the moment I'm blogging at My Space at http://www.myspace.com/elainecantrell.com

18.  Is there a place where readers can reach you? 

Go to my web site and there's a link to send me an email.

19.  Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

I sure can.  On amazon.com you can buy A New Leaf and The Welcome Inn.  Purple Heart is available at http://www.thewildrosepress.com/  Grandfather's Legacy can only be purchased from me as the publisher of the book died, and the publishing house was shut down.

20.  For new readers-what can they expect when they read your book(s)? 

They can expect a quick, fast paced read with sympathetic characters and a great supporting cast.  I don't usually write anything stronger than PG13.

In conclusion:

21.  Take as much space as necessary to speak to our readers-what would you like them to know about you and your writing? 

For me, writing a book was a long standing dream come true.  I had wanted to write ever since my mother took my sister and me to the public library when we were in elementary school.  Still, I probably never would have tried it if not for my son.  He came home one day and told me he'd written a book.  I was totally amazed.  I was even more amazed when I read it.  He's good. 

He gave me the courage to write my own story.  I may never make it to the New York Times best seller list, but the sense of satisfaction and achievement I've felt since publication of my books is worth a fortune to me.  What I've learned from this experience is that if you have a dream, no matter how unlikely you think it is to come true, you should go for it.  It sure won't come true unless you do.


Posted by joyceanthony at 12:01 AM EDT
Updated: Thursday, 24 April 2008 12:39 AM EDT
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Tuesday, 22 April 2008
Storm--The Trailer
Topic: Miscellaneous

I have a very special post tonight.  Ron Berry, one half of Surreal Storm Creations (yours truly is the other half) has created a book trailer for my book, Storm!!  Please let me know what you think!!!


Posted by joyceanthony at 12:30 AM EDT
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Monday, 21 April 2008
A Word From Lacresha Hayes--Excerpt from The Rape of Innocence
Topic: Blog Tours

  For all the things that God does here on the earth, it seems He always uses a person. God rarely uses birds to bring us food as He used ravens to feed Elijah. Most people probably won't experience manna raining from heaven in their lifetime. God uses us to minister to each other, and it is shameful for the Body of Christ not to have an answer for those who are hurting. Where can a person find the answer if not in the Church? If a person cannot trust the people in today's churches to really love them, where should they search for love?

 Everyday the Kingdom of God is losing people to the streets. Children are searching for answers to their troubles. If the Church does not have the answer for these children, the streets will pacify them with a lie.

Everyday, neglected and unloved women take up the search for an answer to their pain. They search for unconditional love. The local assemblies of the saints proclaim to have the answer, yet their profession isn't backed with action. Hurting people come to church day after day and leave the same way they came. Some people come into the churches heavy hearted and burdened. They then leave disillusioned and hopeless.

Though this may not be the case everywhere, unfortunately, it is the case for a lot of people. Therefore, I lend you this advice: If you are blessed with great leadership in your home church, stay there even when you don't understand everything. The grass is probably not greener on the other side of the fence.

One of the things we don't seem to understand is that not everyone is able to endure the heartache of unfaithful and unloving Christians. For centuries, the church, as an institution, has been lifted up as a beacon of light for the hopeless, the destitute and the mournful. When people come and find it to be anything short of a loving assembly, not all of them will recover. In that case, who is guilty? We can't blame it on the devil, but must cleanse our own hearts from hypocrisy. It's okay to have a bad day or moment in life. It's a different thing to habitually practice behaviors that cause the morale of in the Church to decline.

When innocence is lost, the Body of Christ should be positioned to take in the hurting souls. It is our job to nurture people and give them back to God.

Many children have lost faith in adults. Some children are not raised with parents that understand what it is to protect their children. Some children need protection from the very people that should protect them. Some children are defenseless against the adults in their lives.

In my childhood, my problems were not with other children. My problems came from adults forcing me to grow up too fast. My problems came from men who refused to allow me a childhood. My problems came about when the people who were supposed to protect me did not do what they promised. I'm only one person. There are many more who have endured similar or worse problems.

When innocence is lost too early, a young person's world can soon deteriorate into a pit of darkness. When life seems continually dark from a very young age, hope is easily lost. As adults, we should seek to protect children, even if the children are not our own. We should foster a child's individuality while yet cultivating the attributes of Christ in them. We should provide a safe haven for children, giving them a place where they can grow into who God called them to be without fear of harm or negativity. We all have a part to play in protecting and safeguarding children since they cannot do it for themselves.

 Of course, not only children are affected by the darkness in this world. Adults are just as often disheartened by the cruelty in the world as children are. For those blessed to go through life in a somewhat naïve state, the sure awakening to the brutality of life can be very disturbing. Life doesn't just happen to the unsaved, but life happens even to the saved. Life happens inside and outside of churches. Life happens to people of all ages and in all cultures. To live means to endure hardships and trials. Adults are sometimes robbed of their ability to bear up under burdens. Just like children, many adults are forced to realize that not everybody in their lives mean them well.

In my own life, many times I was dismayed at how fickle friends can be, at how phony saints can be and at how easily hurt I could be. It seemed that just as I figured myself out, a change would come. Just when I thought I couldn't cry any longer, more tears would make their way to my eyes. I found myself distraught in the world and disenchanted in the fellowship of believers. I wondered where my answer would come from. I had no role models and nothing tangible that I could grab hold of. I felt destined for history to repeat itself.

There is a terrible injustice both in the world and in today's churches, a common ground, if you will. Neither the world nor some churches like to be confronted with issues of moral decay and degradation. People hate to come face to face with any issue that shows they have been failing in their duties. It is not customary for most people to deal honestly with themselves. It's easier to deal with others from far off distances. A child marrying her teacher in another state is considered "sad and heart-wrenching", but we only shake our heads at it. It's news and nothing more. It serves as entertainment, in the crudest sense of the word. Of course, if our child marries his/her teacher, then it becomes an outrage and something must be done! How sad! Innocence is innocence, whether far off or close to home.

When innocence is lost and even beforehand, the answer is always found in Christ Jesus. No matter the circumstance or trial, we must learn to develop a relationship with God, and to introduce our children to God while helping them to build a relationship with Him for themselves.

*****

Lacresha Hayes has honored us with her wonderful message the past few days.  I want to thank her for being so open with everyone.  We love you Lacresha!!!

 


Posted by joyceanthony at 1:03 AM EDT
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