Oak Tree Press Blog

DorothyL Best Reads of 2011

2012-02-01T07:34:00.000-06:00

The results are in for DorothyL's annual compilation of the best reads of the year submitted by participants on the largest listserve of mystery readers in the world. Readers submitted books by 787 different authors. No wonder most of us don't make much money. It's a crowded field.

The list is sorted by how many readers mentioned a particular author. Louise Penny ranked number one. No surprise there. Not only is her latest, A Trick of the Light, doing extremely well, but she has many books out, and the list counts all books by an author that are on any reader's top reads list.

I am pleased to report I was tied for 38th. Not bad for a list that contains 787 authors. And each of my books was on at least one list.

Of course the drop off from Louise Penny at number 1 to Mike Orenduff at number 38 is steep. She received six times as many mentions as I did. I only wish I had one sixth of her royalties.

Mike Orenduff

Interview with PI Carney Brogan from "Death of a Flapper"

2012-01-31T11:48:00.000-06:00

We asked Carney Brogan a few questions about his latest case, one featured in the mystery, "Death of a Flapper" from Oak Tree Press, the first in the "Death by the Decade" Series. Carney operates a private detective agency in NYC's Tin Pan Alley.

The time is 1926, the heart of the Roaring '20s and what is known as the Flapper Era. The case: A missing persons caper involving a young woman by the name of Alice Prado.

As soon as Mrs. Lucille Prado came into my office, I figured she had lost her way, that happens a lot in Tin Pan Alley; but when she started to tell her story, about her missing daughter, I paid a little attention, more so when she showed me a photo of Alice, quite a looker. There was something about Mrs. Prado that struck me as honest and earthy, and I told her I'd take her case--but not to expect a lot of success. Grateful for at least that much, she gave me a buck retainer, and I went to work.

Q) Carney, what makes your case so special?

Little did I know that I would run into quite a bunch of characters, many of them from the ranks of high society. I counted on some help from my inside source, Lt. Phil Spillman with the police department, and my friend, Bruno Kowalewski with the city morgue. In addition, I get the lowdown from another friend of mine, Woody Byrd, an ex-musician who combs the streets of the Bowery; and then there's Pops Dempsey, who owns Dempsey's Boxing Gym and who's always good for an odds-on bet.

I started with Alice's recent address, where I found her roommate, aspiring actress/dancer Sally Blair. She told me Alice now went by the name of Arabella Germaine, a real party girl who enjoyed pearls, fancy champagne and even fancier guys. She had been seen in the company of playboy Robert Landon and his group of spoiled, rich kids, including his sister, Regan. Their friends came with the cutesy names of Muffy, Frenchie, Tippy, Hoochie and Spiffy. Plus, I had a lead on some art gallery owner, a fancy pants guy by the name of Victor Cathcourt. Sure, he knew Arabella all right. In fact, she had been his muse in more ways than one.

As I went along, I found a lot of inconsistencies in their stories, plus the kicker: no one had seen Arabella since the weekend--at least not until she showed up in the morgue. Now, as I looked down on that beautiful, pink angel--the girl who had been the life of the party--I knew I had to start earning that buck.

Q) Has this case affected your personal life?

You bet! I guess you could say I fell in love with Arabella, at least the image of her that I had formed in my mind. The high society kids called her "Angel" and I couldn't agree more with that appellation. She was an angel, an ethereal creature, and us mere mortals had been given only a brief glimpse of such beauty and grace.

If that's not a hoot, Sally Blair, the aspiring actress/hoofer, keeps casting goo goo eyes my way, and my friend, Maeve Dempsey, wants to set me up with a friend of hers from the phone company, Harriet Mumson.

Q) What made this case hard to solve?

Well, for one, everyone had an alibi, a lot of slick alibis by my count. The rich sure think they can get away with even such a paltry excuse as murder; but I persevered, if not for Arabella, then for her parents who needed to know why their daughter had been left for dead on a grimy city street. In the process, I almost got myself killed by a mobster named Slim Jim Morelli and his gang. So, I just have to sort all the clues while I share a drink with my friend Phil at Jerry's Gin Joint, a real cat's meow speakeasy.

Q) What have you learned from the case?

Well, for one, women are sure strange creatures. One minute I think I can trust them, and the next--well, I prefer not to say. Although, I can tell you this: I finally got over my infatuation with the dead Arabella, and now I'm focused on Harriet Mumson who sent me violets while I was laid up in the hospital after a tangle with a couple of tough guys. Harriet, or as I like to call her Pixie, just got under my skin for some reason--and who knows? Maybe we'll tie the knot someday...

Carney's story can be found in:

Death of a Flapper (Death by the Decade Series) by Marva Dale and published by Oak Tree Press

now available through Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble.

For more information, go to Oak Tree Press or Ms. Dale's website at merrellspassion.info

Award nomination!

2012-01-30T11:41:00.002-06:00

My book, "The Baffled Beatlemaniac Caper" from Dark Oak Mysteries was nominated for an Eureka! Award for best first mystery novel at Left Coast Crime 2012, "Mining for Murder." The awards will be given out at the conference, March 29-April 1 in Sacramento, Calif.
Sally Carpenter

January 31, Last Day for Early Bird Fee for PSWA Conference

2012-01-29T21:40:00.000-06:00

The Early Bird Fee is $200 for PSWA members and $225 for non-members which includes 2 1/2 days of program, 3 fantastic lunches, the writing awards ceremony, AND the chance to meet the OTP publisher and some of your fellow writers.

http://www.policewriter.com for all the information. You can pay by PayPal or print the registration form and send it in with a check.

Conference Speakers

Want to include the FBI in your novel? Do it right, using the proper context, and understanding how the Bureau operates. John Wills and Herm Groman will discuss FBI practices and terminology in their presentation: FBI Fact and Fiction.

JOHN M. WILLS. John writes both fiction and non-fiction. He has had more than one hundred articles published in various law enforcement magazines and websites, relating to police training, fitness, officer survival, and ethics. He is a monthly contributor to Officer.com, the largest web portal for law enforcement, and is a former Chicago police officer and retired FBI agent. His latest novel, Targeted, will be released in the Spring of 2011. It is the third book in an exciting series John created, called The Chicago Warriors Thriller Series. He also an award-winning author of short stories, many of which have been published in anthologies such as Randy Sutton’s, True Blue to Protect and Serve (St. Martin’s Press), and Stories of Faith and Courage From Cops On The Street, part of the AMG Battlefields & Blessings series . He is an authorized NCAA speaker on the topic of steroids and dangerous drugs
Herman Groman is a retired FBI Special Agent and is the current director of security at large Las Vegas casino/hotel. While in the FBI, he specialized in working deep long-term undercover operations as an undercover agent in the areas of organized crime and narcotics. He also served as the agent in charge of several high-profile public official corruption investigations. Later on in his FBI career, he was a team leader of one of the FBI Special Operations Groups. The specialized group conducted surveillances of major terrorist cell groups and their associates. He served in the infantry in Vietnam and was awarded the purple-heart and bronze star for valor. He resides in Las Vegas with his wife. They have two adult daughters and four grandchildren.

A SHORT AND LIVELY HISTORY OF MONEY LAUNDERING
JOHN MADINGER explores the history and operation of an activity that Business Week called, "the crime of the 21st century." The art and science of making dirty money appear clean goes back a long way, and has become a key part of almost any crime committed for financial gain. The program will look at the first recorded money laundering scheme (it's in the Bible), a money laundering scam that brought down a president, the techniques that terrorists use to finance their operations, and the evolution of modern money laundering, from Al Capone to Bernie Madoff. Money laundering may be the third largest business in the world, and it is certainly a key part of every organized criminal activity on the planet. We'll look at how law enforcement attacks the problem and what the criminals do to avoid getting caught (and losing their money), and will gain a clear understanding of how and why money is laundered today.
JOHN MADINGER recently retired as a senior special agent with the Criminal Investigation Division of the Internal Revenue Service. In his 36-year law enforcement career, he also served as narcotics agent, supervisor, and administrator. He holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Indiana University, a master’s degree in history from the University of Hawaii, and was the honor graduate in the Treasury Criminal Investigation Training Program. He was the recipient of numerous awards and citations from the Internal Revenue Service, the Drug Enforcement Administration and Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces. Throughout his career, he had extensive experience in money laundering, forfeiture, and financial investigations; has developed training programs in these areas for the Treasury and Justice Departments; and has developed and presented money laundering training in the United States, Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean.
John is the author of Money Laundering: A Guide for Criminal Investigators, 3rd Edition, 2011, and Confidential Informant: Law Enforcement’s Most Valuable Tool, both published by Taylor and Francis/CRC Press, as well as Death on Diamond Head, a mystery set in Honolulu, Hawaii and published by Watermark Publishing. He is an active member of Mystery Writers of America and the Public Safety Writers Association.

THEY AIN’T ALL NAMED BUNDY, DAHMER OR GACEY

KATHY COTTRELL, forensic nurse examiner and victim advocate, shares her years of experience working in the trenches with sexual assault victims, dispelling the myths and misconceptions about sex offenders so that authors don't fall into the traps presented by print and electronic media.
KATHY COTTRELL R.N. has a varied clinical background from the Operating Room, Labor and Delivery and clinical instruction to nursing administration, investigating allegations of medical malpractice and, most recently, a legal nurse consultant on personal injury and negligence cases.
For twelve years she was affiliated with the Regional Rape Crisis Service of Rochester, New York, first as a volunteer advocate, then worked her way up the ladder to staff coordinator and eventually director of the four county crisis intervention program which served an average of 1,000 victims of sexual violence and their significant others. Her most recent role with RCS was as a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner, or SANE.

A published author in her own right, Kathy uses her experience in her books and also in professional workshops with the goal of helping authors to incorporate authenticity into their writing. Particularly, she speaks to the impact of sexual violence on victims, the community and advocates.

TALES FROM THE DARKSIDE

JOHN BRAY will share a few stories of cops who crossed the line and ended up in the Administrative Trial Room. The tale of the cop who shot his lover’s unarmed husband, the theft of 100 lbs. of heroin from the locker room, to the Medal of Honor winner who extorted money from “Sonny Red” Gambino.
JOHN BRAY retired as lieutenant after 17 years on the New York City Police Department. After acquiring a BS and Juris Doctor Degree he was admitted to the bar and worked for four years as lieutenant prosecutor in the Department’s internal disciplinary system. After leaving the NYPD, he practiced criminal law for 30 years. Currently he’s the President of the Chesapeake Bay Writers Club and the author of two novels, The Ballad of Johnny Madigan and The Confidential.

ARE YOU GETTING THE MOST OUT OF WORD?
If your favorite writing tools are a legal pad and a fountain pen, this session is not for you. Most of us use word processors like Microsoft Word to get our ideas into print. Tim Dees will discuss techniques within Word that can streamline your workflow and allow you more time for creating and composing. We’ll talk about use of styles, macros, annotations, footnotes and endnotes. Effective use of the tools within Word allow you to produce a publication-ready manuscript, complete with an automatically-generated table of contents, index, and list of references. We’ll also look at an inexpensive writer’s software application called Scrivener. Scrivener has provisions for tracking the characteristics or each person and place in your book, so you don’t confuse details that detract from your story. It even generates character names of user-selectable ethnicity and period.
All those in attendance will receive a CD with narrated tutorial “movies” taking you through each technique, and a trial copy of Scrivener.
Tim Dees has been writing, training and consulting on applications of technology for over 20 years. He spent 15 years as a law enforcement officer in Reno and the Pyramid Lake Paiute Indian Reservation in Nevada before teaching criminal justice at colleges in Nevada, Wisconsin, West Virginia, Georgia and Oregon. Tim has also been the editor-in-chief of Officer.com and LawOfficer.com. He serves on the PSWA board as the resident Alpha Geek. He holds a bachelor’s degree in biological science from San José State University and a master’s in criminal justice from The University of Alabama.

WORKING THE “L” CAR…SELF-PUBLISHING – ONE WRITER’S STORY

The publishing scene has changed. There are many avenues an author can pursue to get their work in the hands of readers. One of those is paths is self-publishing. In the first few months of 2011, KATHY BENNETT decided to self-publish her full-length novel, A Dozen Deadly Roses. In June of 2011 the book was available as an e-book at Amazon, Barnes and Noble and Smashwords making the book available to anyone with an e-reader, computer, tablet, or Smartphone. In October of 2011, A Dozen Deadly Roses was the #1 Police Procedural book at Amazon, and the #10 Suspense book, in the Top 20 of the Mystery/Thriller category, and in the Top 50 of all books being sold at Amazon. The book also made the Top 100 of all Nookbooks sold at Barnes and Noble. Over 40,000 copies had been sold.
In this presentation Kathy will share with you her experience: the good, bad, and the ugly in self-publishing her debut novel. She’ll also discuss how her experience changed in publishing her second book, A Deadly Blessing (which she anticipates being available in early 2012).
KATHY BENNETT retired after twenty-one years as a Los Angeles police officer. Most of her career was working patrol in a black-and-white police car. She also served as a Senior Lead Officer, a Firearms Instructor at the LAPD Police Academy, a crime analyst in the “War Room”, a Field Training Officer, and worked undercover in carious assignments. She was named Officer of the Quarter twice and Officer of the Year once.

THE TRUTH ABOUT PROFILING
Peter Klismet BS, MS, MPA, FBI (Retired) will discuss what the concept of criminal profiling involves, debunk some myths, identify some behavioral clues profilers are trained to seek, explain how going from the 'how' and 'what' differs from looking for the 'why,' at a crime scene, and review the differences between 'method of operation' and 'signature.'
After a 30 year law enforcement career, which included over 9 years with the Ventura (CA) Police Department and over 20 years in the FBI, Pete retired in 1999, the same year he received the National Law Enforcement Officer of the Year award at an International Convention in San Francisco. Pete's FBI offices included Los Angeles; Cedar Rapids, Iowa; Omaha, NE and finally Grand Junction, CO. He was selected as one of the original profilers in 1985 and in addition to considerable FBI training, trained and worked with law enforcement agencies on numerous homicide cases in the Midwest, in addition to his other duties. Pete is a graduate of Metropolitan St. College in Denver, received a Master's Degree from California Lutheran University and a second Master's from the Univ. of Southern California. He is currently an Associate Professor of Criminal Justice at a Colorado community college.

All this and panels too about writing, getting published, and promotion.

http://www.policewriter.com/

DEFENDING GENRE FICTION

2012-01-26T18:38:00.002-06:00

Sunny here. I've posted my opinions over at http://coraramos-cora.blogspot.com/

My Review of The Pot Thief Who Studied Escoffier

2012-01-26T01:26:00.003-06:00

The Pot Thief Who Studied Escoffier

J. Michael Orenduff

The Pot Thief books are known for making the reader hungry and this one is no exception. Herbert Schuze, better known as Hubie, is hired to design and make the prototype for chargers (better known as plates) for a brand new restaurant soon to open in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The hitch is the Schnitzel restaurant is going to focus on Austrian cuisine.

From the beginning nothing seems quite right, from the owner to all the quirky people hired to cook and serve. Hubie gets to know these people better than he’d like because he must do his pottery work in the restaurant while preparation for the grand opening are underway. The cooks are trying out all the new recipes and everyone must try them out. None sound appetizing, and most of the time Hubie sneaks away to find more appealing meals elsewhere.

For followers of the Pot Thief books, Hubie makes plenty of trips back home and to Dos Hermanos Tortilleria in Albuquerque to discuss the happenings and the employees of Schnitzel with his friend, Susannah, over margaritas and chips. In between, he reads about the life and times of Escoffier.

The opening of the Schnitzel is disastrous. Austrian food is not a hit with the epicureans of Santa Fe. The descriptions of the menu items were explicit enough for me to know I would never try them. Never fear though, Hubie does plenty of cooking and eating of much more tantalizing dishes.

Though I haven’t mentioned it yet, there is a murder and of course Hubie is the prime suspect. Along with the quest to find out the true murderer, Hubie is romanced, threatened, creates new dishes, bar tends, attempts a bit of burglary and safecracking, and is nearly murdered. As with all the Pot Thief books, plenty of subtle humor abounds, and Hubie enjoys his Gruet Blanc de Noir.

There’s much to love in The Pot Thief Who Studied Escoffier. It has all the elements that endeared readers to Hubie and this series, good food and drink, unusual characters, great settings, a puzzling mystery and plenty more. Though I recommend that all the books be read, each can be read as a stand-alone.

Marilyn Meredith, Author of Angel Lost and the soon to be published No Bells.

The wonders of cyberspace

2012-01-25T11:31:00.000-06:00

I posted the piece below on my Pot Thief blog and it showed up here. Go figure. I was planning to post just the review portion here, but the intro material works O.K. here, so I'm just leaving it. Which is just as well because I wouldn't know how to remove it anyway.

Mike

Review of NO BELLS by F. M. Meredith

2012-01-25T10:48:00.000-06:00

The Pot Thief Blog has been inactive since the end of the Murder We Write blog tour on December 9. After 14 days of posting blogs on other sites while simultaneously hosting other mystery writers for 14 days on this site, I couldn't bear to hear the word blog, much less do something on on. Then Lai and I left three days later for a month in our apartment in New York City. We enjoyed the Christmas displays in the big stores, saw the Radio City Music Hall Christmas Special, went to the museums and galleries, saw Billy Elliot, a great musical, visited with friends and relatives and lived the carefree life in our cozy pied-a-terre. Cozy? Try 350 square feet with a Murphy bed. Hey, we're lucky to have anything in Manhattan. If it were on the market today, we couldn't afford it.

We returned just in time for the start of the spring semester. Lai had to turn her attention to teaching, and I had to turn my attention to treating a head cold with the staying power of a triathlete. When I finally got well enough to read, I treated myself to a pre-publication copy of F. M. Meredith's latest. So I'm restarting the blog today with a review.

Fans of F. M. Meredith’s long-running Rocky Bluff Police Department mysteries will be happy to learn the newest book may be the best yet. In No Bells, Gordon Butler gets his first leading role in this clever ensemble series. Butler is like Joe Btfsplk, the cartoon character in Al Capp’s Li’l Abner, a poor sap for whom things never quite work out. Meredith’s plot – her best yet – is a perfect fit for the character. Without giving away too much, he wins but he loses. It’s a very satisfying read, and the meaning of the title is not revealed until the end. No Bells is a tightly woven story. Just when you think you know “whodunit,” something happens to change your mind. Then you go back to your first guess. Then a different hunch arises. As always, every member of the Rocky Bluff PD and their family members has a speaking part as their personal lives and police issues give us another glimpse of a town we love to visit.

Five-star review for "Baffled Beatlemaniac Caper"

2012-01-24T14:02:00.002-06:00

Inga's Review posted this reaction to my book on Goodreads.

If you want to read something which is entertaining, fun and has a good suspense story combined with Beatles music and good characters then The Baffled Beatlemaniac Caper is definitely for you! Sally Carpenter’s book is well-written, humorous, and original and it is easy to read! I really enjoyed it! Regarding the plot: Meet Sandy Fairfax: Sandy is 38 years old man who used to be a pop-star and an idol for young fans for many years ago and who has been on the road of deterioration for a while. Since he needs some work he is accepting the offer from his manager to attend a Beatles convention as a guest speaker. When he arrives, then everything is different than Sandy is used to – no limo to pick him up, no suite in the hotel, except the fact that he is still recognized and he still has a fan base. During the fan convention Sandy is ending up in the middle of the murder case and all the clues which are left behind are related to Beatles and their songs. In order to make sure that he is not accused as a murderer, he is using his knowledge from the TV-series he starred – Buddy Brave, Boy Sleuth – to solve the mystery. I loved several aspects in the story. Firstly, I was fascinated by the details of fan convention. I have never ever attended at a fan convention and the spirit and the world of being a fan was very much fun to read about. How the characters know the details of their object of admiration, how they would choose no means to get a fan item – all that was put neatly to the paper by the author! Secondly, the dialogue was very vivid between the characters! Besides that, the inner world of Sandy was very captivating; I really enjoyed reading the book from his point of view. Thirdly, I also loved how the author changed Sandy – he developed through the story in very positive way. Regarding the characters: I liked Sandy because he started out as a middle-aged degraded pop-star with alcohol issues into the person he once was – person who loves music and loves creating and making music. He also grew as a person inwardly from being arrogant into a man who actually has nice personality. Bunny was annoyingly lovable. She was so into Sandy Fairfax that sometimes it seemed like harassment. She was smart and so keen to make sure that her idol Sandy was pleased. It was in one way very adorable and the other way also little too much. The other supportive characters were interesting and believable which also shows that author has thought through the stories of even the smallest and less important people in the book: the hotel manager, band members, police detective – they were all well-written. Generally: The Baffled Beatlemaniac Caper was very entertaining and good book! It’s a book which makes you laugh and smile and creates a lot of positive emotions for the reader. Even though there is a murder story in the novel, it still offers a very positive atmosphere and that is exactly the reason why this book gets a very good evaluation from me! Read it!

SUNNY OVER AT BURIED UNDER BOOKS

2012-01-24T13:16:00.002-06:00

The topic is titled "You've Changed--Has Your Website?"

It's not enough anymore to just put a website up and forget about it. It's also not enough to put down the dates where you are appearing and the latest book you've written. You need to have a website that reflects not only who you are but where you're going. Does your website define you? Does it offer readers a reason to come back?

I looked mine over and realized what was important to me at the beginning of my career path had evolved into something quite different. The marketing sites I concentrated on informing my "Posse" is now available to everyone without any extra effort on my part.

It may be better to give than to receive, and I do get so much more satisfaction sharing the book covers of authors I've brought into Oak Tree and sites of other bloggers. But, what I receive is payback, the willingness of industry people to promote me in return. It's all good.

For the full article, go to
http://www.cncbooks.com/blog/2012/01/24/youve-changed-has-your-website/

To check out Posse Posts on my website, go to: http://sunnyfrazier.com

Website up and Running

2012-01-17T13:26:00.002-06:00

I finally have my website up and running. Check it out at berylreichenberg.com. For a sample of my children's stories go to page 4 and page 5.

I'm writing new titles all the time and recently completed a book entitled "Camouflage" about how animals in the wild camouflage themselves. Reports from my test audience (my grandchildren and other small ones) have been very positive. Whenever I develop a new story, I always see now this audience likes the book and look for ways it can be improved by their comments. I find children are very truthful critics, no sugar coating here.

Time is Running Out for PSWA's Early Bird Registration

2012-01-17T09:27:00.001-06:00

Public Safety Writers Association's Writing Conference which is in July in Las Vegas, has an Early Bird Registration Fee of $200. It runs out on January 31st.

This is a dandy conference for anyone writing mysteries or thrillers because you not only get to hear experts from all sorts of law enforcement and other public safety fields including the FBI, this year we also have a forensic nurse. Of special interest is the fact that we're having a crime scene created by Steve Scarborough (former Las Vegas CSI) and Mike Black (former Chicago cop) and everyone will be able to check it out and come to their own conclusion about it.

Our own publisher, Billie Johnson, and Marilyn Olsen, an editor of long standing, will be discussing the business of writing and publishing.

Go to the website http://www.policewriter.com/ to check out the other speakers. We will have panels on writing and promotion topics too. If you'd like to be on a panel, you need to register before June 1.

You may bring your books for sale also. PSWA only takes 10% of book sales.

And one more thing, the registration fee includes three fabulous lunches.

Hope to see you there.

Marilyn

Guest Blogging Today

2012-01-05T13:56:00.000-06:00

I'm blogging with Amy Corwin today. Please check it out and leave a comment. http://amycorwin.blogspot.com/2012/01/guest-author-ck-crigger.html

Happy New Year everyone.

Carol

New Year's Resolutions

2011-12-31T17:18:00.000-06:00

Many of us create New Year's Resolutions. Many of us don't keep them.

For 2012, my resolutions will be all about writing--especially marketing and promotion. I've made that decision based on studying comments from the numerous writers groups that I follow. It appears that sales of e-books are up mightily! With that in mind:

1. Study the market for e-books. Look at results for Kindle, Nook Books, and more.

2. Make a plan and follow it. Spend 30 minutes a day, twice a week, checking out leads for marketing.

3. Keep a book with records of marketing leads. Record what works.

4. Blog about marketing and promotion one day a week--probably on Fridays.

5. Work on a new book with the e-book market in mind.

What about you? Do you have New Year's Resolutions? Do you have marketing plans for 2012?

Monti

http://marymontaguesikes.blogspot.com/">Mary Montague Sikes

the "famous" poem about booksignings!

2011-12-29T11:48:00.002-06:00

To illustrate that we are not alone out there!

And, since this gem dates back, way back, I'm sure some of you haven't read it. Written by English author Rhys Bowen, the internationally known mystery writer (we should be so rich and famous!), it says it all and always makes me laugh:

"If only you'd come yesterday.

I'm sorry no one's here.

It's always slow on Saturdays

and at this time of year.

Too bad tomorrow's Father's Day

and everyone's out shopping.

Too bad the heat is so intense

that everyone is dropping.

I wish you'd come on Friday night,

it's always such a lark.

We had a line around the block

for Mary Higgins Clark.

I'm sorry that it's been so flat.

Let's take a picture with the cat!

Rhys Bowen (who has been there and done that)"

Now, from me: Good luck to all of us and a very Happy New Year!

Kit

www.kitsloane.net

Thinking About 2012 and Book Promotion

2011-12-28T16:36:00.003-06:00

This is the time of year when everyone starts considering resolutions for the new year. At the top of my list, I have written, "Find ways for better book promotion."

Hmm. A list of ways for better book promotion might comprise my complete list.

I wonder where book signings should be on that list. Probably not at the top.

One of the authors at a group book signing in which I participated earlier this month commented rather grimly, "This is not the best way to sell books." She went on the explain that although she wasn't getting many sales that day, book signings were good for the independent book store owner. To remain in her good graces, she would continue to do signings there, she said.

"What is the best way?" I asked.

She replied by telling me about a program she gave last month at a college in New York state. Part of the prearranged agreement was that copies of her book would be placed on each chair for attendees at the meeting. Not only did she get the sales for those books, but she was paid as a program presenter and her expenses were covered as well. She told me about another author friend of hers who will not agree to speak to a group unless her book is given to each person who attends. What a wonderful way to promote a book and gain new readers.

What is on your list for book promotion? Do you have a list?

Monti
http://marymontaguesikes.blogspot.com/

ARE YOU EMERGING?

2011-12-27T12:46:00.002-06:00

Sunny here. I'm headlining Emerging Novelists, although I believe I emerged quite some time ago. But, the rest of you might contact Mike Murphy, terrific guy, and see if you can "emerge" on his site.
http://www.emergingnovelists.com/

BOOKS BY POSSE AND OPT AUTHORS

2011-12-26T11:54:00.002-06:00

Sunny here.

Patricia Gilgor, one of the members of the Posse, has done a terrific blog spotlighting members titles. The Posse, for those of you who don't know, is a marketing group I set up (I'm the Sheriff) that consists of potential OTP authors, current OTP authors and pretty much anyone who wants to fast-track their marketing skills. We even have badges!

In this week's post, I spotlight nine of the books that were published by
> Posse members in 2011. I hope you'll stop by.
> Next week, I'll be posting the books that are scheduled for 2012
> publication - again, written by members of our wonderful Posse.
>
> --
> http://pat-writersforum.blogspot.com/
>

My OTP Books and Holiday Greetings

2011-12-22T09:29:00.001-06:00

My Oak Tree Press books on display at a book fest--though I'm not exactly sure which one it is, I did so many last year. I went wherever we didn't have to drive too far and didn't cost too much.

One thing abut any kind of book or craft fair, you never really know how it's going to go, but you're bound to sell a few books if you have a good display, something to attract people to your table, and you get up out of your seat to talk to folks who pause and look.

This is the time of year when we are or should be celebrating with your family and friends whatever holiday you favor. For me, it's Christmas, always has been and always will be.

But keep in the back of your mind, once the holiday season is over, you should get busy and map out your promotion strategy for 2012.

Merry Christmas to you all, and a Happy and Profitable New Year.

Marilyn aka F. M. Meredith

Season's Greetings

2011-12-20T12:00:00.000-06:00

For my last post of the year, I send out a 55-word story, told in code: read aloud to crack the code. For those of you who know "Ladle Rat Rotten Hut," this story is written in the same genre.

To all of you, I wish a happy holiday season!

Rude Off duh Rad-Nodes Raingear

Pour, pore Rude Off. The mother raingears left atom, wooden plywood hem. Rude Off wordy sadist raingear inner hole white whirl. Sopped end sopped tillers nodes tern dread.

Sandy Claws sore Rude Off’s rad nodes end sat, “Aw ride! Yukon guy mice lay!”

Pour Rude Off. Pore guise gutta were call knight!

Sunny's Website

2011-12-18T18:27:00.003-06:00

I've finally updated my website. I have a new link called "Mission: Acquisitions." The covers of some of the books I've discovered in my role as acquisitions editor are on this site. The video Billie and I made is also on this page.

In the NEWS section, there are various photos from different conferences: San Francisco, Puerto Vallarta and Victoria, BC. You can also see what Jeffrey Deaver looks like!

http://www.sunnyfrazier.com/index.html

Book Launch Party Jambalaya Justice

2011-12-17T09:29:00.003-06:00

After months of trying to plan a book launch, I finally settled on tonight to officially launch Jambalaya Justice. I'm having the book launch party at our bar, the Last Stand, at 424 Destrehan, in Harvey, LA, at 7:30 p.m. if anyone happens to be in the New Orleans area. (We're across the river from downtown New Orleans, about a 10 minute drive.)

We're doing a jambalaya cook off, with the winner getting to name a character in the third book, Chocolate City Justice. We did the same for Gumbo Justice, so if you read Jambalaya Justice, the character Christie Bouvier was named by the gumbo cook off winner last year. (One of the strippers in the book was also named by a contest winner in an auction on ebay to benefit the First Amendment Project.)

I think it's going to be slow, because there are a lot of Christmas parties in the area, but I didn't want to put it off any longer. If nothing else, it'll be a nice chance to get out and relax for once, even if I don't make a lot of book sales.

I did sell a few books at the Holiday Bazaar last Saturday at my youngest daughter's school. Vendors paid $30 (it was a Pre-K fundraiser) for a spot in the school yard. It had a nice turnout considering the weather was a little cold for here and sort of dreary. Most vendors had to provide their own tables but I was working our co-op table (equivalent to PTO or PTA), because I am president and didn't have enough volunteers, so at least I didn't have to bring or set up my own table.

My only regret was that I have been operating on such a schizophrenic level lately between the co-op, my "job-job", my article writing job, working on my third book, Chocolate City Justice, and general family duties (two kids, husband, dog, deaf cat, fish), not to mention Christmas, that I forgot to order copies of my first book in time to have them for the event. A lot of the people who bought Jambalaya Justice wanted to buy a copy of Gumbo Justice, the first book, but I only had one to sell and my first customer bought it.

The only negative to this particular venue is that the sheriff sends a tax collector deputy with forms to pay our parish sales tax within 20 days, and she checks our name off a list to prove she gave us the form. So we do have to pay the sales tax relatively quickly.

My advice if you are planning an event--make a list of what you might need and don't assume you've got everything covered just because you've done it before. Especially around the holidays or other hectic times where something you might ordinarily remember may slip your mind.

This brain only holds so much, and I'm pretty sure it's full to capacity at the moment.

guest blog

2011-12-11T15:24:00.001-06:00

Today (Sunday) I am Mike Murphy's guest on his blog, Emerging Novelists, thanks to our PR gal, Jeana. Please visit and leave a comment if you aren't too busy watching football. It's an interesting site for readers and writers, for sure.

And I love the "emerging" part. After nine books I wish I had already "emerged," but it's a slow process and actually "emerging" is probably optimistic!

http://emergingnovelists.com

Happy Holidays to all,

Kit

A basket case

2011-12-05T15:30:00.002-06:00

Each year my parish hosts a charity fundraiser with a silence auction for gift baskets of goods and services donated by members and neighbors. This year I donated a "Mystery Lovers" basket with a signed copy of my book and four other mysteries written by people I know--novels that people would not find in a bookstore. The basket received four bids (one woman bid twice) for a winning bid was $48. The winner was excited that she won and I said I would personalize the book for her if she wanted. I don't get any of the money BTW--all of it goes to the church, the local food pantry and the homeless center.
OTP authors may want to consider donating your books to local service clubs for charity raffles or fundraisers. It's a great way to help a worthy cause, generate good will in your community, and promote your work. And for anyone making a gift basket of books, why not ask OTP authors for a contribution?
Sally Carpenter
"The Baffled Beatlemaniac Caper"

local signing

2011-12-05T10:48:00.002-06:00

I had a GREAT time at the annual Xmas Fair here at our local golf course restaurant. I've been doing this for ten years and it was so terrific to meet, again, lots of my readers. Sold LOTS of books, both new (CLOSE-UP) and earlier stories and chatted with all my devoted readers who are so interested in my characters or, as one asked, "How are the kids doing?" The kids being Margot and Max through 9-adventures!

It's such a treat to meet my readers again and share our stories and answer questions. I always give a good discount. It only seems fair in this day and age. It's worth it when I know 32 more people will be reading my series!

Happy Holidays.

Kit

www.kitsloane.net

New England Crime Bake X

2011-12-02T14:19:00.000-06:00

I recently attended the tenth annual New England Crime Bake—Crime Bake X—convened recently in suburban Boston (Dedham, to be precise).

Comparing notes and experiences with other writers was probably the most enjoyable and helpful aspect of the weekend.

Barry Eisler and Nancy Pickard were Guests of Honor. Past honorees have included Sue Grafton (2009), Harlan Coben (2008) and Robert B. Parker (2004).

Eisler is the author of “Requiem for an Assassin” and “The Detachment,” among many others. He was a participant on several panels. On “Top Guns: Five of Mystery’s Best Discuss the Keys to Success,” he was joined by Pickard, Donald Bain, Renee Paley-Bain and Michael Palmer.

Eisler encouraged the authors in attendance to remain open to suggestions and criticisms.
“You can’t be too possessive of your words,” he advised. “[They] may not be perfect.”

By the way, Eisler’s web site, www.barryeisler.com, is chock full of excellent tips and links for writers.

During that panel, Bain talked about his writing schedule that consists of 10 pages each day, seven days a week—a good way not to lose writing momentum, he explained.

Palmer is a practicing physician who has written several thrillers. He was among the authors who conducted a “master class.” His was about “Creating a Thriller from Alpha to Omega.”

Other authors participating included Gerry Boyle, Margaret McLean, Lynne Heitman and Hank Phillipi Ryan. Phillipi Ryan has a large following in the Greater Boston area and New England. She is the author of four mysteries and is also an on-air reporter for WHDH-TV, the NBC affiliate in Boston.

I found the weekend very enjoyable and informative in an informal and relaxed way. Crime Bale shop talk included various ideas and opinions about publishers, web sites and the debate of Kindle vs Nook. (Even though I’m still confused about which one, if any, to get! Any suggestions?)

And it was great to be among other writers and authors who have all fought the battle of the blank page—be it paper or electronic.

Along these lines, Michael Palmer confessed still to having anxiety whenever he begins a new novel, and drew knowing laughs when he reminded the Crime Bake audience, “It’s not supposed to be easy.”

Letting libraries do the selling as well

2011-12-02T11:59:00.002-06:00

To piggyback on Mike's previous post, writers shouldn't overlook libraries as a good promotion tool. I told my city library about my new book and that I was a local author. Within a month the library ordered five copies of the book, set up a display of the books and had me appear on an author panel. I've also donated copies of the books to other libraries in the county. One librarian contacted me today and said the book has been catalogued and is already circulating. Also, would I be interested in appearing in the library's once a month local author Q&A series? I also plan to mail a copy of the book to my hometown library in the midwest. People who read a library book and love it are likely to buy it, plus the libraries I contacted will no doubt be willing to purchase future books in my series as they come out.
Sally Carpenter
"The Baffled Beatlemaniac Caper"

Letting bookstores do the selling

2011-11-29T18:13:00.000-06:00

What follows is a slightly modified version of an email I sent to the participants of the Murder We Write blog tour I am currently on. I’m not as sanguine about blog tours as most authors are these days, but I have to say the camaraderie with the other writers (many of whom are with OTP) has been worth the hard work.

The background was that we were talking about people pricing their kindle books at ninety-nine cents. I rely primarily on bookstores to sell my books. I know I’m swimming upstream. And I hear the stream is about to run dry. But that’s my plan, and I’m sticking to it. There are approximately 100,000 mysteries on offer at Amazon and no staff who consult with customers. Yes, you can do a search. But if you’ve never heard of Mike Orenduff or the Pot Thief (and about three-hundred-million Americans fall into that category), the chances of you selecting one of my books on Amazon are slim. But I know that every book I place in a bookstore will sell and lead to more sales. Of course bookstores I’ve never heard of order my books, and I’m grateful to them. Most of those books sell, but some are returned. I can hear Billie uttering a bad word at this point.

However, the signed books I personally leave at bookstores are never returned because I don’t take returns. And every bookstore that has taken a signed book from me has eventually ordered more. In some cases, the order may be for just four books. Other orders have been for as many as a hundred. And those orders repeat periodically. Some stores order once or twice a year. Some order every month.

Earlier this fall, I did a signing at The Bookshelf and Gallery in Thomasville, Georgia. The Bookshelf is an appealing store run by an energetic young couple in a town of about 25,000 that still has a bustling downtown. There was a lot of traffic, and the owners and staff seemed to know most of the customers by name. I sold only three books, but that didn’t disappoint me because they asked me to leave eight books – two of each title. Those are gone, and they have re-ordered. Last month, I placed 4 books at E. Shaver Bookseller, a fine little independent store in the historic district of Savannah. I did not do a signing as it was a cold call, but they were excited about the books and displayed them by the front door before I had even left the building.

Lai and I had reasons to be in Thomasville and Savannah, so placing the books was a bonus. But even had special trips been required, I would have made them despite the fact that the gasoline would have cost more than I made on the books. Those few books are merely a beginning. I see every bookstore signing and visit as an investment.

Some of you have heard me explain my strategy – get books in as many stores as possible and let them do the selling. And since this strategy works mostly with indie stores, the loss of Borders was not an issue for me.

I grew up in an age when talk about personal finances was considered tacky, but I have to mention it to finish my point. I get a 50% royalty on Kindle sales. So if my books are priced at .99, that’s half a buck. But when a book sells in a bookstore, I gross $8.97 (60% of the cover price). I can buy the books for $6.50 including shipping costs if I order in bulk, so I make $2.47 on each sale. It costs me about fifty cents a book to mail them, so I make almost $2.00 a book for every book sold in a store. Traveling to a new store costs money, but once I have secured a retailer, all I have to do is receive the orders – almost all by email – and mail the books. And all the costs of this operation come off my income tax.

And the best part is spending time in all those bookstores.

I know this may not last. Bookstores may go the way of record stores. I figure bookstores are not likely to be here in twenty years, but then neither am I. So I’ll continue to let booksellers sell my books and concentrate my time on writing. And looking for my glasses. And getting up out of a chair. And all the other wonderful challenges that age brings along with wisdom. I think I’d trade the wisdom for a bit of youth.

Beatlemania strikes again!

2011-11-22T10:52:00.002-06:00

Fab Four expert Steve Marinucci gave my book a nice review on his Beatles Examiner website in "A murder mystery at a Beatles fan convention? Help!"

Sally Carpenter's book, "The Baffled Beatlemaniac Caper," creates a whodunit in an unlikely setting -- a Beatles fan convention.
The central character is Sandy Fairfax, a former '70s teen idol who, in his prime, played a young adult TV detective. He now becomes the chief suspect in the murder of a tribute band musician and decides to try and clear his name.

The book is filled with numerous Beatles references ("Who was that?," Scott asked. "The Blue Meanie," Bunny said") and stereotypes anyone who has been to a Beatle convention will recognize ("That's Valleri. Most of the fans steer clear of her. She hates anyone that knows more about the Beatles than she does or has gone to more concerts or has a better record collection").

And in the end, the case is solved, but not before Fairfax meets some unusual characters and plays in a rooftop concert all in one weekend.

The murder and convention angles add unusual elements to what is definitely a very unconventional Beatles-related novel and retro mystery that will be of interest to fan fiction fans.
Continue reading on Examiner.com Review: A murder mystery at a Beatles convention? Help! - National Beatles Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/beatles-in-national/review-a-murder-mystery-at-a-beatles-convention-help#ixzz1eSCtor4V

2011-11-19T21:04:00.001-06:00

Sunny here.
The blog has become book promotion. However, I spotted this tidbit and thought I'd share.

Seems Penguin has decided to start doing self-publishing. This used to be called "Vanity Press" and a lable that small, or indie presses, have fought against for years. If you want to have the name of a quality outfit like Penguin on your book cover, it will only cost you between $99 and $594.

Is this what it's come to? Really? I mean, when it's possible to download your books to Kindle for no cost, how is Penguin able to justify this ploy?

The more I read, the prouder I feel about what we're accomplishing over at Oak Tree.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/nov/16/penguin-self-publishing

John Daniel - Behind the Redwood Door

2011-11-15T11:36:00.000-06:00

John Daniel's Blue Heron, the sheriff in his novel " BEHIND THE REDWOOD DOOR", is interviewed by Paula Petty in her blog Paula's Coppers: http://www.paulapetty.com/paulas-coppers.html

Michael Orenduff " The Pot Thief Who Studied Ptolemy"

2011-11-15T10:41:00.002-06:00

We have another review of one of our authors. It comes from Manic Readers , a website that has reviewed many of our books as of lately. They score with a 5 star system. Mike has recieved a 4 1/2 star review! Great Job!

The Pot Thief Who Studied Ptolemy centers around extremely rare and beautiful Ma pots from the mysterious San Roque pueblo. San Roque is the Spanish name; the Indians refer to themselves as the Ma and these pots are sacred to them. A former UNM professor, Masoir, believes the recently retired head of the Anthropology Department, Gerstner, never returned them; that he, in fact, stole them.
This sets Hubert off to find out if the pots are indeed in Gerstner’s apartment in the Rio Grande Lofts and another adventure.
The Pot Thief mysteries are intelligent without being condescending. There’s a wonderful sense of humor with Hubert often leaning toward self-deprecating, but never mean. The flow is easy and laid back, the writing clean and uncluttered even while being descriptive enough to make me feel I’m in Albuquerque. I love Hubie’s description of the sound of the Ma language, “I liked hearing the sibilant consonants that sounded like dry leaves being chased by the wind across sandy ground.” I’ve never heard the Ma language but this gives me such an incredible sense of the sound that I can hear it in my head. I never fail to learn quite a few truly interesting tidbits when reading the series.
The characters are a joy to spend time with. Susannah and Hubie’s relationship is delightful. I love the laugh out loud banter between them and look forward to 5 o’clock margaritas at Dos Hermanas Tortilleria. Susannah is steadily working her way through the university’s catalog while she searches for “a nice guy.” Hubert is, well Hubert.
Ms. Gladys and her casseroles, Tristan the techno geek (but adorable to women) nephew, Father Groaz (of the thick accent), Martin Seepu of a local pueblo who sells Hubie pots his uncle makes, Whit Fletcher the cop who often bends the rules for Hubie, Layton Kent big shot lawyer extraordinaire, and last but not least Consuelo and Emilio to whom Hubie is devoted. Then there’s Albuquerque, NM itself; the landscape, culture, food, peoples past and present, the lore all permeate The Pot Thief mysteries creating an indelible sense of place as important as the wonderful characters.
For someone who claims he isn’t a burglar, Hubie is becoming extremely adept at breaking and entering. Once again the book he’s reading, Ptolemy, plays into his mental efforts to solve the problem of the Ma pots and the murder that just happens to occur along the way. Can Hubie, with the help of Susannah, margaritas, Tristan, and a few other friends solve the mystery of the missing Ma pots? Who is the beautiful and successful Stella? She keeps telling everyone they know her but Hubie doesn’t have a clue, though she does look familiar. He has to wonder why she’s so interested. After all, he’s not the type of fella women like Stella are usually attracted to. Will Hubie solve the mysteries of the Ma pots, the murder, and Stella? You’ll just have to read The Pot Thief Who Studied Ptolemy to find out. You won’t be disappointed.
The second in the series is stronger and even more enjoyable than the debut. I’m so hooked and looking forward to the next two.
Simply put I LOVE The Pot Thief mysteries.

If you would like to see the review in its original form you can at http://www.manicreaders.com/index.cfm?disp=reviews&bookid=16816

2011-11-14T10:22:00.000-06:00

This appeared on the Creatures and Crooks Blog (a wonderful site for reviews by the way) http://cncbooks.com/blog/

Angel Lost
F. M. Meredith
Dark Oak Mysteries, February 2011
ISBN No. 978-1610090056
Trade Paperback

The small town of Rocky Bluff in Ventura County is abuzz with excitement. An angel is sighted in the window of a downtown store. Residents gather to view the angel and give their opinion as to the reason the angel has appeared. Most agree that it is a miracle but no one knows how the angel happened to appear.

There’s also a lot of excitement regarding the forthcoming marriage of Officer Stacey Wilbur and Detective Doug Milligan of the Rocky Bluff Police Department. The wedding has been planned down to the smallest detail with Stacey’s family and friends all pitching in to make Stacey’s wedding a day to remember.

Abel Navarro, Stacey and Doug’s fellow worker, has a lot on his mind. Abel’s mother is beginning to show signs of Alzheimer’s. The new addition to the Rocky Bluff Police Department, Vaughn Aragon, a transfer from Los Angeles, is having second thoughts about requesting the transfer to Rocky Bluff. Vaughn is haunted by a shooting that happened in Los Angeles but is not comfortable enough to share his experience with his fellow officers.

However, there is more going on than the angel miracle and the personal happenings of the officers in the close knit community. The department has received several complaints about an early morning jogger who is flashing women on the beach. When Stacey takes on the job of attempting to catch the jogger, she runs into more trouble than she ever expected.

This is the seventh book in the Rocky Bluff series. The book can be read as a stand-alone. Many of the characters have been highlighted in previous books in the series and readers will be glad to see their return. Although a lot of the book dwells on happy events, there is plenty of crime going on in Rocky Bluff to keep the readers glued to the book.

Reviewed by Patricia E. Reid, March 2011.

(Patricia let me know about the review which she sent many places--but for some reason it took awhile to appear on this blog.)

Marilyn

Yet another older title comes alive....

2011-11-11T09:34:00.002-06:00

Manic Readers has been very busy reviewing several of our authors books, and many of them have been our older titles. Here is yet another for your reading pleasure. Great Job Augustus Cileone !~~

Maxwell Hunter is an English teacher for Eastern Friends School in Pennsylvania. Hunter has a keenness for mystery solving and is a perfectionist who specializes in detail. Because of Hunter’s position at the school and his familiarity with the people involved, Lt. Frank DiSalvo decides to ask for his help in solving the murder of George Wheeler. But, as it turns out, Wheeler isn’t the only one to be murdered as other bodies begin to pile up, each with bazaar circumstances and each in some way connected with the school. Because of his sharp eye for detail and his ability to assemble pieces of a puzzle, Hunter is able to identify a literary modus operandi. Can he use his knowledge to predict the next attack and prevent another murder?
I felt an immediate dislike for the protagonist Hunter, to me an aging hippie with a gigantic chip on his shoulder and in most instances would have stopped reading at that time. I’m glad I didn’t. A Lesson in Murder is a good story, the other characters are interesting and well developed and the plot is good as well. Overall it’s a good read and was well worth overlooking my aversion for one main character.

If you would like to See the review you can at http://www.manicreaders.com/index.cfm?disp=reviews&bookid=17235

Now the Real Work Begins!

2011-11-09T12:14:00.002-06:00

I now see how publishing a book can become addictive. Seeing my first Oak Tree book, "Ants on a Log", on the Amazon and Barnes and Nobel Websites is a thrill. It makes me want to write and publish more children's stories. I'm sure all you established authors know this feeling.

Although I have self-published over 30 titles on Blurb.com, it doesn't compare to the wider circulation and exposure Oak Tree has provided. Thanks to Billie and all the great staff at Oak Tree for your assistance in making this happen, Beryl Reichenberg

guesting with our Marilyn Meredith

2011-11-09T09:41:00.003-06:00

Today on Marilyn's always interesting blog, http://marilynmeredith.blogspot.com/, I write about the "inspiration" for my new book, CLOSE-UP. I know inspiration is an amorphous word meaning almost anything to anybody, but I went back over my other eight standalone mysteries in my Margot & Max series, and I realized that each story had it's OWN story of why I decided to devote all that time to it!

For CLOSE-UP, I was privy to a backstage conversation between a director of photography and the makeup artist on a shoot for I forget what, probably a TV commercial. What I heard between these two production professionals was interesting to say the least. Out of context conversations always seem curious to me. They can lead to misinterpretation and misunderstandings or in this case, the couple of sentences I overheard led me to write 75,000 more words!

Thanks, Marilyn, for letting me describe how it happened!

Kit

www.kitsloane.net

The Astral Gift

2011-11-07T18:20:00.000-06:00

I thought just for fun, I'd promote The Astral Gift which is available from Oak Tree Press on Kindle.

This was the first mystery I ever wrote. It has quite a varied history. First it was published by a publishing company in Canada that turned out to be crooked. At first they acted like any publishing company--then they began doing strange things. When they published The Astral Gift, I had a great book
signing set up and the company sent 50 books. Nearly all were sold. When I approached them for more books, they disappeared off the face of the earth. That meant no more books and no royalties at all.

Then I found a small publisher in Bakersfield who published the book as a mass market paperback as it had been previously. It sold moderately well. (This is the publisher who published the first of my Deputy Tempe Crabtree series and later passed away unexpectedly.)

I found another publisher, this one published the book as an e-book and trade paperback. Though I could tell the book was selling, I received no royalties. This publisher had other books of mine and still no royalties. I finally asked for an accounting and he sent me a really small check, but no accounting. Time to sever the relationship--and I did.

Eventually, I met Billie, she published my Rocky Bluff P.D. series that had been published by the publisher I just spoke about, then another publisher who did two of the books then decided to go out of business. When Kindle books became so popular--Billie agreed to put that one on Kindle which really hasn't done much.

I had a great time writing it, it's all about a young woman who was abused as a child and used astral projection as an escape. When she's grown, the astral projection returns unbidden and she has no control over it. When her roommate is murdered, she becomes the primary suspect because she knows too much about the crime. Of course there's some romance thrown in.

Have I ever astral projected? No, but you can research anything. I had a reader tell me that he knew I had because I described it so well. So--if you want to try something different, order The Astral Gift for your Kindle.

Marilyn

Sally Carpenter Interview

2011-10-31T13:01:00.002-05:00

A very nice Interview on Sally Carpenter, by Buried Under Books....

http://www.cncbooks.com/blog/2011/09/04/building-a-3-d-character-through-research/

2011-10-31T12:26:00.002-05:00

New Reviews for Dumpster Dying from Buried Under Books... Nice read. http://www.cncbooks.com/blog/2011/09/01/book-review-dumpster-dying-by-lesley-a-diehl/

http://www.cncbooks.com/blog/2011/10/29/book-review-dumpster-dying-by-lesley-a-diehl-2/

Manic Reader Review of The Pot Thief Who Studied Pythagoras

2011-10-26T12:34:00.003-05:00

We just had another book reviewed through Manic Readers..... wonderful review for Mike Orenduff !!! " The Pot Thief Who Studied Pythagoras "

http://www.manicreaders.com/index.cfm?disp=reviews&bookid=16817

Fab four fans love 'Baffled Beatlemaniac Caper'

2011-10-24T11:01:00.001-05:00

This review was recently posted on Beatles-Freak.com. Readers can sign up at this site for a giveaway drawing for a free copy of the book. The signup deadline is Oct. 29.

Book Review: The Baffled Beatlemaniac Caper by Sally Carpenter
What a delight this book was to read! I had seen this book mentioned on BeatlesNews.com and decided to find the author and ask for a review copy. Ms. Carpenter said she’d contact her publisher about getting a copy to me, but after several weeks my mailbox was still empty, so I just bought my own. I prefer buying my own copies to review anyway so I don’t feel obligated to the authors/bands/producers.
Though not really a Beatle book, this fictitious murder mystery takes place in 1993 at a Beatles convention in southern Indiana. When a member of the local Beatles tribute band is murdered, Sandy Fairfax becomes suspect #1 in the eyes of the local police. Sandy is a childhood TV star turned popstar in the 70′s. Pulling from his four years on TV as Buddy Brave, Boy Sleuth, Sandy sets out to clear his name and find the real killer.
This is author Sally Carpenter’s first book in her ‘Sandy Fairfax Teen Idol Mystery Series’ and I think she’s done a great job depicting the nuances of a Beatles fan convention. Throughout the book, we Beatles fans will find many similarities to the well-known Fest for Beatles Fans that take place every year in NY and Chicago. In fact, Ms. Carpenter even mentions Mr. Lapidos’ conventions in her book. Another nice touch is the chapters are named for Beatles songs and Beatles lyrics are hidden within the text of the book.
I find this book to be a great little easy and leisurely read. I only wish Ms. Carpenter were going to write more stories with the Beatles as a theme.
By the time I was halfway through this book, my review copy showed up in the mail! So, I’d like to share this copy with my readers. Anyone posting a comment in the comments section of this post will be entered to win a copy of ’The Baffled Beatlemaniac Caper’! Contest entries will only be accepted until 11:59 pm on Saturday, October 29, 2011. I will use the random number generator at Random.org to pick the winner and post it on Sunday, October 30th. Good Luck!
You can read another review of this book and an interview with the author here.
This book is available on Amazon.com.
I rate this movie: 3 out of 4 Beetles

Emerging Novelists and other interviews

2011-10-23T13:22:00.004-05:00

Thanks to Jeana, Emerging Novelists has posted an interview with me as well as background information about Jambalaya Justice. The site is at http://emergingnovelists.com/ and the interview is at http://emergingnovelists.com/Interviews.html.

Every time I do an interview, I wonder what information I should include. Obviously, I want to include things readers might find interesting about me, and those things that might make a reader want to take a look at one of my books. But there's always that hesitancy about how much personal information to include.

Some things to stay away from are obvious, such as no names of my kids or my pets, address and phone number off limits, school names and direct employers name avoided, but there are other things that are not quite as clear cut.

I try to include things I consider public record, such as things people could find out about me anyway. While I clearly want to avoid drawing the interest of stalkers and serial killers, especially because I write about stalkers and serial killers, I also want to spice up my background a little to seem interesting enough that someone might want to know what I write about.

Holli Castillo
www.jambalayajustice.com

A Great Review of an older title

2011-10-21T10:46:00.003-05:00

I have added most of our books on a website called manic readers. A review of an older title came through today. I wanted to share it with all of you, it is a wonderful review the best this site will give. http://www.darkdivasreviews.com/?p=6473

2011-10-14T10:27:00.003-05:00

Denise Solter's "Jetta's Journey" just had a Big review, in Healthy Pets Magazine ! This is such fabulous news I wanted to share it with all the Oak Tree Press authors. Way to go Denise !!!!

Disappointed with Book Store Signings?

2011-10-13T01:37:00.007-05:00

This is a photo from a couple of years ago at Nipomo.

I seldom do a traditional bookstore signing anymore. For one thing we don't have any traditional bookstores anywhere near by. We do have a used bookstore and I've done and will continue to do bookstore signings there. For a couple of reasons, I really want the owners to make it and they are wonderful about furnishing refreshments, setting everything up for me, though I'm the one who does all the advertising. The last one I did wasn't all that great, only 4 books were sold. However, the owners have me leave books on consignment and the do sell them. Just received a nice little check today.

There's a bookstore up in the mountains above Fresno that I really like to go to and I usually give some kind of presentation on a subject the local writer's group has asked for. Unfortunately sales haven't been all that good lately, so I may scratch it off my list.

In my little town, I have books on consignment in our local thrift shop. Once a month I get a check from the organization that runs the shop.

Where I seem to do best selling books is craft fairs and book festivals. This weekend we have a big one in our town, The Apple Festival. It's work because we have to put up our own tent, I have some great banners that I hang, we haul in a table, the table decorations, two chairs, a cooler with water and snacks, and of course the books.

I always attend the Central Coast Book Festival, another good one and they furnish the tables, table cover, and 2 chairs. I like to go to the craft fair put on by the Friends of the Library in Nipomo also. In fact, I'll do just about anything that involves going to the Central Coast.

I know that there are these sorts of events in every state because I see postings from other authors.

Any other ideas folks for selling your paper books?

Marilyn

Photo from Bouchercon

2011-10-10T17:49:00.000-05:00

My good friend, Radine Trees Nehring, sent me this photo taken at Bouchercon.

I didn't get to go this time, but Radine did. I had recently seen her at Killer Nashville, and in face Billie went to dinner with us and our spouses one night while we were there.

Jeana, Oak Tree Press's fearless publicity person, is in the middle, and on the left is our great publisher, Billie Johnson.

Billie and Jeana took the opportunity to drive down to Bouchercon and spread the word about OTP's book. I thought you'd all like to see this.

Marilyn

DUNDEE INTERVIEW NOW UP AT EMERGINGNOVELISTS SITE

2011-10-09T19:42:00.000-05:00

As arranged thanks to Jeana, a new interview with yours truly just went up today at Mike Murphy's http://emergingnovelists.com/ . Same site will soon be featuring other OTP authors, so please give it a look-see.
Hope everyone is getting out and about on these lovely weekends and enjoying the fall colors (which, unfortunately, are rather sparse out my way). It won't be long before the primary color for many of us is going to be white.

Persevere --- WD

A Good Time To Read

2011-10-09T07:35:00.000-05:00

What are you reading?

Note I didn’t ask what you’re writing, which might be the obvious question on a blog like this.

The reason for my question is because October is National Book Month—a time to honor and celebrate the book.

One of the key ingredients of advice to aspiring writers is to read. The neophyte might then ask, what am I to read? Does it mean how-to books? Books written by the advisor? What?

Personally, I’d say a writer should read the types of books he or she wishes to write. Most would-be writers are already readers. Inspired by the books they read for pleasure or edification, they strive to emulate, feeding both an innate need and a desire to share their thoughts and imaginings with others.

What moves a person to become a writer or engage in other creative activities is a matter for the psychologist and not our interest here. What is obvious is not every person who loves to read becomes or wants to become a writer. What is also obvious is the person who wants to write will eventually do so, regardless of advice or lack thereof.

I’ve never met a writer who wasn’t a reader. I think most of us would agree it was love of reading that first stimulated our desire to write. How, then, should a writer read? The answer, of course, is alertly. No writer worth his/her salt should ever read without a notebook at hand.

As Dumas put it a long time ago: Writing can not be taught; it can only be learned. One learns, initially, by reading. Anything you read will influence your writing style, either consciously or subconsciously. That’s why many novelists refrain from reading while working on a book. However, it has been found that reading good writing can provide the impetus for recharging the creative juices when you’re stalled or suffering a block. Even junk can be beneficial, but if you want to do creative writing, then you should read the best writing available. You can improve your style, your language and rhythm by the subconscious influence of good literature.

I Can Sleep When I'm Dead

2011-10-07T18:27:00.004-05:00

I've been crazy busy (as you might be able to tell from my title), between handling cases for my "job-job", writing articles for my second "job-job," working on the third in my series, Chocolate City Justice, doing what I need to as president of my youngest daughter's school Co-Op (similar to PTA or PTO), and trying to squeeze in a little promotion around helping with homework, making sure everyone has clean underwear, and scooping out the litter box. I do lead a glamorous life, don't I?

With the limited time I have had for promotion I was excited to get an email from Morgen Bailey this morning reminding me that an interview on her blog was up today. I did the interview a few months back, when things were a tad slower, and am glad I did. At the time, it seemed October as such a long way off, but now it seems as if it flew by. Her interview can be found at http://wp.me/p18Ztn-Xf

In the interview, I also have an excerpt from Chocolate City Justice.

My contest winner from Ebay's First Amendment Project auction finally came to the Big Easy and enjoyed a few drinks with us at our bar. I was a little nervous, hoping she and her husband wouldn't think we were all crazy, but we got along famously and had a great time, despite the fact that we have rival football teams. I now consider her a new friend. She ended up naming a stripper in Jambalaya Justice, Pamela "Bubbles LaRue" Briggs. Pam was a hoot and I couldn't believe how much we all ended up having in common. I'm getting ready to send her a copy of Jambalaya Justice as part of her auction winning, and hope she comes back down when Chocolate City Justice is out.

I also have three things coming up on my agenda. First, I'm going to plan my book launch for Jambalaya Justice at the bar now that I have copies of Jambalaya Justice with the edited cover showing the seal from the PSWA fiction award. I think I'll stick with what worked already and let the attendees compete in a jambalaya cook off, with the winner getting to name a character in Chocolate City. (Last year's gumbo cook off winner for the book launch party for Gumbo Justice named a punk rock internet cafe clerk in Jambalaya Justice, "Christi Bouvier.")

I also am going to be revamping my blog. I think I am going to have one day a week to do post interviews, and one day a week see if I can get someone to guest blog, and one day a week post a review of a recent read. The other days will have to be downtime, maybe a thought of the day or let someone post a writing sample for others to critique, I'm not quite sure yet. I will let everyone know when it is up and running the way I want it to be, because I am hoping some of you will want to participate and get a little free publicity.

And speaking of publicity, I also want to do a virtual book tour, but am torn between paying for one or setting up one myself. Without having the time to do the research, I am thinking it would be better to pay to have one set up for me. There are also other free promotional opportunities, as well as inexpensive pay ones, but I have to make time to fit them into the schedule.

If anyone has a particularly good or bad experience with any particular virtual tours or promotion sites, I would appreciate the information. I previously did an inexpensive package with Apex for Gumbo Justice and my book sales went up, but it is difficult to know if that was an anomaly, or actually related to what the company did. The price did include a book trailer and a few other things. If anyone else has had experience with them that differed from mine, please post. I think everyone wouldn't mind knowing if there are inexpensive promotional pay sites that are worth it, or more expensive sites worth their price.

Holli Castillo
Jambalaya Justice
www.hollicastillo.com

Become a Better Blogger

2011-10-07T12:25:00.000-05:00

It's great that we have this blog for Oak Tree authors. I'm guilty of not visiting as often as I should or could. Recently I posted the following tips on my blog, and I think they can be useful for all of us.

Here are some of the tips I have learned that can help one become a better blogger:

1. Focus. Pick a topic and become known mostly for that topic. Alex is known for his movie reviews. And, no, scattered is not a good topic!

2. Visit the blogs of others. Follow the blogs you like.

3. Tweet about your blog and the blogs you follow.

4. Post regularly, even if it is only once or twice a week.

5. Write often about those things that will help others. Write sometimes about the things you love. Although I don't believe I have many artists among my followers, I sometimes cannot resist writing about art. Occasionally, I need to write about baseball as well. That's definitely breaking the rule on focus.

6. Join blogfests that interest you. You'll meet new people there and make friends. You'll expand your horizon.

7. Spend an hour a day, if you can, developing your blogging skills. If you can only spare 30 minutes, use that time to your advantage. It will be time well-spent.

8. Take a look at your blog statistics and see which posts attract the most visitors. I have never topped the number of visitors I got the day I posted my thoughts on the sudden ending to the Medium television series.

Today, my book, Jungle Jeopardy is highlighted on Michael Di Gesu's In Time blog.

Monti
Mary Montague Sikes
Passenger to Paradise books
NotesAlongTheWay

New blog post

2011-10-05T10:28:00.006-05:00

I have a new blog post up on Morgen Bailey's writing pages site. I'm discoursing on the Power of Names, if anyone is interested.

http://morgenbailey.wordpress.com/2011/10/04/guest-post-‘power-with-a-capital-p’-by-carol-crigger/

Carol

Sally Carpenter

2011-10-03T11:37:00.008-05:00

Lorie Ham over at Kings River Life Magazine has been very good to many of our authors here at Oak Tree Press, having our books reviewed and then doing many interviews and giveaways.

Sally Carpenter and her book "The Baffled Beatlemaniac Caper " was just interviewed you can read her interview at http://kingsriverlife.com/10/01/mystery-author-sally-carpenter/

Jeana

Clark Lohr

2011-10-03T11:30:00.004-05:00

Mike Murphy over at Emerging Novelist has begun to work with me featuring our OTP authors. This week the featured novelist is Clark Lohr "Devil's Kitchen" http://emergingnovelists.com/

The Arizona Daily Star had this to say about Clark and his book... " A mix of local history and heady intrigue introduces trigger-prone Many Aguilar, a Hispanic-Yaqui sometime sheriff's deputy and sometimes P.I.who gets mixed up in a border drug war. Well written and well plotted, Lohr focuses on a violent slice of Southwestern life."

From Sally Carpenter

2011-10-01T21:40:00.000-05:00

I have my first review of my first OTP book! Terrance McArthur wrote a terrific review of "The Baffled Beatlemaniac Caper" for the online magazine Kings River Life. OTP's own Marilyn Meredith interviews me as well. A big thank you to both! Earlier this year the magazine published my short story "Faster Than a Speeding Bullet," something I wrote to amuse myself while waiting for my book's release. "Faster" can be found in the KRL archives and concerns a murder among the costumed characters who work for tips among the tourists in Hollywood.

The review link is http://kingsriverlife.com/10/01/mystery-author-sally-carpenter/

Lingering Spirit is a Finalist for An Epic Award

2011-09-28T01:56:00.000-05:00

Lingering Spirit is a romance with a touch of the supernatural.

It is now a finalist in the Supernatural/Metaphysical category in the Epic awards.

Lingering Spirit has a long history. The story is based on something that actually happened in our family long ago--and in fact, the book itself was written a long time ago. Then it was published as an e-book with a publisher that will not be named--it's enough for me to say that for various reason I pulled the book.

When I became acquainted with Billie Johnson and she'd published my Rocky Bluff P.D. crime novel (which was actually #5 in the series), she asked me if I had any other books. And of course, I gave her Lingering Spirit which became a trade paperback and then more recently appeared on Kindle, within the right time frame to be entered in the Epic contest.

I've had other books final in the Epic contest--some up against Mike Orenduff's wonderful Pot Thief series--and I've never won. Maybe this time will be a charm, who knows.

In any case, I'm thrilled. It's great to be a finalist again.

Marilyn
http://fictionforyou.com

News Flash from Bouchercon

2011-09-26T09:46:00.005-05:00

Boy, I really don't like coming in on top of the news about LINGERING SPIRIT! But I need to share a little about our trip to Bouchercon!

Jeana and I arrived about noon, and headed straight for the dealers room. Along the way, we bumped into Beth, the conference organizer for Killer Nashville, and had a chat with her. Also we spent a lot of time perusing the goodie tables and picking up interesting things, and notices of upcoming events.

In the dealer room, we chatted with several booksellers and Jeana handed out our catalog ... our BEAUTIFUL catalog. And presto! There was Radine Trees Nehring and her husband!

Then we connected with Mike Black and Shauna, who passed on celebrity bowling (I think!) to spend a little time with Jeana and me in the hospitality room.

It was a fast trip, but excellent. Now we are scheming to see if we can pull off attending LOVE IS MURDER!

Bouchercon is HUGE, but this one seemed really well-organized and well-laid out. This is a "movable feast" conference, so when it comes to your area, attend!

Billie Johnson

Fun with Floods!

2011-09-25T10:35:00.000-05:00

Water coming to create my underground pool!

Water leaving to create my moldy basement!

I’ve been thinking about things like earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, tornados, and forest fires. Well, actually, I’ve been obsessed with floods lately especially since a recent one in my area turned my basement into a swimming pool, then into a swamp, and now it’s just damn damp with accompanying mold and mildew and bugs, and… Well you don’t want to know.

I write a lot about disasters in my work. Since they’re on my mind now, I thought I’d give consideration to why I include them and how I use them.

There’s nothing like a really good wild fire to spice up a book.

Obviously, you say. But it’s got to be more than that. Natural disasters do make a read exciting, but they need to grow out of both the plot and the setting. Since I write about small towns, these cataclysmic events seem to emerge naturally from the setting. Drought in an area can become a raging wild fire chasing people out of their homes and creating, well, romance for me. In Dumpster Dying a wildfire chases my protagonist Emily Rhodes along with her friend Donald into an alligator-infested slough. Should they become shrimp on the Barbie or bouillabaisse with the gators? Or just kiss before dying? A writer can use a natural disaster in any setting, as long as the groundwork is purposefully laid so that the disaster works with the plot and/or the writer uses it to say something about the character(s).

Disasters are opportunities for character development

In my example above, the reader may have suspected Donald was romantically inclined toward Emily although I suspect Donald himself was surprised by his actions (the guy is not too in touch with his feelings). Put a character in a life and death situation and a flagging libido is set aflame. For Emily, the presentation of a fire brings out her courageous side, an aspect of her personality she is discovering as the story evolves. A writer can make the emergence of a personality trait especially significant if the disaster is one the character is particularly terrified of such as heights or fear of drowning. Using the disaster to throw this challenge at the character produces great tension and will get the reader rooting for the individual to conquer this fear.

Bad guys think they can harness catastrophe

A tornado in one of my manuscripts seems to be just the right moment for the villain to take advantage of the heroine and her lover. It’s a great writer’s ploy to have the protagonist encounter the disaster paired with the evil workings of the killer. It gives the killer a moment of glee to think he or she can have their way. To the reader it seems as if evil will triumph, but Mother Nature can turn in a second. Not only can one not fool Mother Nature, but one ought not to mess with her either. A disaster can become the “Black Moment” for the protagonist, but in the hands of a writer who chooses to align the protagonist with cataclysmic events, it can bring down the villain. My villain couldn’t swim, so his pursuit of the protagonist in a boat damaged by the storm is his undoing.

4. Humor comes after

Don’t think because you write humor that you can’t use disasters to your advantage. The aftermath of a storm, fire, or flood is the perfect place to let your reader breath a sigh of relief and laugh at the same time. In the sequel to Dumpster Dying, Emily and her detective friend Stanton Lewis have abandoned their car because a storm has dropped a tree limb on the hood. They prepare to walk to shelter when Lewis notices Emily is not beside him. Emily, who is barely over five feet tall, has stepped into water up to her waist. When he asks her in exasperation what she is doing, she replies, “swimming.”

I’ll bet you can think of other ways disasters add to the story. I’d add more but I’ve got to buy another bottle of Clorox and get to the basement. Now where did I put that bug spray? Die, you little bugger, Die!

Lesley A. Diehl, author of Dumpster Dying “I like to put my characters in harm’s way.”

Your Promo Plan

2011-09-24T01:04:00.000-05:00

Laurie McLean, an agent with Larsen Pomada Agency, was one of the main speakers at the Central Coast Writers Conference. She had a lot to say about promotion and the promotion of e-books. She also helps people with their promotion plan. http://agentsavant.com/

Here are some of the tips she gave:

Decide what your goals are. Check your publishing contracts. See if you have back lists title, books that you wrote but never got published that could become ebooks.

Develop your brand. Decide what you unique brand is. Make yourself stand out. Always put your name in the labels or tags on your blog.

If your going to prepare your ebook manuscript for posting on Smashwords, Amazon's Kindle and Barnes and Noble PubIt, format your book correctly for each ebook distributor. Select the best ebook sites. Create POD copies for printed books. (Frankly, I'm quite happy to have a publisher who does this for me, yay, OTP. I have enough trouble finding time to write two books a year and do a good job promoting them.)

Be sure to have a good cover--pay for someone to do it. (Again, aren't we fortunate to have a great publisher who does the cover?)

Create cover and inside blurbs.

Solicit endorsements.

Post your ebooks. (Can take a long time.)

Use effective online and offline marketing to increase sales potential.

You must have your own blog and website.

Book reviews especially form online reviewers.

Guest blogs.

Comments on others' blogs.

Video book trailers

Use social media.

Boodreads/Library Thing, be an active part of these communities.

Business Cards. (They are my favorites, I handed out close to 100 at the CCWC and CC Book Festival this weekend.)

Bookmarks.

Postcards.

Press Release--she said this was old school and prefers HARO.

Amazon Author Central (If you haven't done this one yet, be sure to put it on your to-do list.)

Kindle Boards (Be careful with this, they aren't happy about authors' promoting, but do have special places you can do it.)

Be flexible.

You decide where you are going to do your marketing. (Not all things work for all people--figure out what you enjoy and what actually seems to have results for you.)

Be yourself, be nice, be a friend, don't spam, just interact.

If you ever have the chance to hear Laurie McLean speak or take a workshop from her, do it, you won't be sorry.

(My comments are in the parenthesis.)

Marilyn
Books by Marilyn

Blogging 101

2011-09-24T01:03:00.002-05:00

After going to Central Coast Writers Conferences and hearing about blog etiquette, I just have to comment here on what a blog should do.

This blog is for Oak Tree Press and when we post we need to do the best job ever.

A blog should have something interesting to say, give a report about something that happened, certainly should promote new books by Oak Tree Press. Reviews from Oak Tree authors would be most appropriate on this blog. Authors love promotion tips. A blog post should have between 200 and 500 words.

Every blog should have content and not just a URL to take someone away from the site.

If you want someone to go look at another blog you're on, fine, but first write something of interest, at least something about the blog, why you're there, anything that will be of interest, then put the URL.

If you have photos to share, put them up, they always perk up a blog.

When you do post, promote the blog. Go to Facebook and all the other places you frequent and let them know you put something new on the OTP blog so others will come and read the blog.

Hoping this will help the OTP blog to be a place readers frequent because of the content that appears here.

Marilyn
http://fictionforyou.com/

Advance PR

2011-09-23T10:57:00.004-05:00

I'm not sure when my next one, CLOSE-UP, will be released, but I already have great, oversize postcards with the cover and the synopsis on the back with a favorite reviewer of the series quoted. I just put "Oak Tree Press, Fall 2011" at the bottom. This way I can give them out at the local events I have scheduled and, hopefully, whet some readers' appetites! It's good to order these postcards as early as you're able because, believe me, when they advertise "Overnight," they're being very optimistic!

Also don't forget alumnae magazines. My college puts out a beauty and was happy to share my book news with a bit of info on the new one to come. Plus they added the fact that my husband was named Professor of the Year at St. Mary's College and we used to have "mixers" with St. Mary's boys way back then and HATED to go! We thought they were so geeky! Now they're co-ed, too. How times change.

So think ahead and do what you can for yourself and your new stories!

PS my daughter Annie Sperling, a production director in Hollywood, does my covers and we had fun with this one. It's part photograph and part pure painting with a dear friend of ours, Kim Andersen, acting the part of my protagonist, Margot O'Banion. I don't know how Annie manages to put these together, but I do love them and appreciate her time and energies spent on them. She works 17-hr days and somehow finds the time for her mum!

Kit

www.kitsloane.net

Bloggin' Fever

2011-09-21T14:17:00.002-05:00

I'm guest blogging at Augie Corner and we're chatting about teen idols. Who was the inspiration for Sandy Fairfax, the hero of my OTP mystery "The Baffled Beatlemaniac Caper"? Find out at http://augiecorner.blogspot.com.

Sally Carpenter

WHAT DOES YOUR PUBLISHER REALLY THINK?

2011-09-20T14:36:00.001-05:00

I interviewed Billie over at Buried Under Books. Part II tomorrow.
http://www.cncbooks.com/blog/

Central Coast Book Festival

2011-09-19T21:00:00.000-05:00

It was a beautiful day in San Luis Obispo!

Last year at the festival it was so windy that some of the umbrellas blew away and had to be chased down before they hurt someone, they did wipe out a couple of display tables.

The good weather brought lots of people out to see what was going on in front of the Old Mission. We were in a good spot and I had lots of visitors and good sales.

It was fun to chat with other OTP authors and see some perform at the author readings. (They happened right across the way from us so we didn't miss out on any.) Sunny was a hit as was Susan Vondrak.

One key to selling is to engage with people walking by. I didn't stand up like I usually do because I had a bum knee--but that didn't stop me from smiling and urging people to come closer to take a look at my books. I handed out all the business cards I'd brought, and I came with lots.

I wasn't as pleased with the talk I gave--it was a long ways to walk on a bum knee, it was way too hot in the room, the person who spoke before me was reluctant to leave so I didn't really have the time I needed to set up and I felt rushed. I probably won't do that again.

Fortunately, my husband manned the table while I was gone and he even made two sales.

This is a great book festival, and if possible, I'd like to go again.

Marilyn
http://fictionforyou.com/

Packing Your Book Cart

2011-09-17T22:25:00.002-05:00

Hi gang! Sunny here.

Tomorrow I leave for San Luis Obispo for the annual one-day book event. It's outdoors in front of the mission. Besides books, there's music, speeches and lots of tables to check out. People walk their dogs and the riverwalk right below is gorgeous.

So, what are the tricks to handling such an event? Everyone does it differently, but here's my tips:

The table. Tables can cost, but I'm a member of the Central Coast Sisters in Crime and they always assign me time to man the table. We sell each other's books while they are speaking or enjoying the rest of the event.

I have a boxy cart with wheels and a long handle my sister picked up at Costco. Many of us travel with these carrying cases. In it are copies of my mysteries and the Valley Fever anthology. Many of the coast people have ties with the Valley people. Nice crossover.

My books are bound in a "set" with raffia and small plastic grape clusters I found at Michael's. I lower the price to $20 for the set, more likely to make easy sales and don't have to worry about change.

I also have the usual business cards and my editor cards. I steal my name cards from panels at conferences, so I keep a few of those in my cart. I also have cardboard book holders to keep my books upright and on display. They fold up and are very useful. A friend got them for me.

My give-aways are astrology-themed pencils. I will sharpen them then snap off the points so children won't stab their eyes out. I'm not big on children, but I'm not out to maim them.

Sometimes, when I have my own table, I have an astrology throw that I cover the table with. This time I'm only taking an astrology cup and saucer to put business cards in. My friends get me astrology stuff as they come across it.

And, I have a wooden tray with a winery logo to set my books on. Although my books are in raisin country, the people on the coast have all sorts of wineries.

I also have my signing book out to collect addresses. Remember, I have another book coming out and these are my potential customers.

I'm bringing a few Oak Tree Press catalogs to hand out to bookstores. There are about 5 of us OTP authors meeting there for the day.

Would love to hear how some of you experienced authors handle signings. For you pre-published authors, start thinking in terms of what's ahead.

On Conventions and Conferences

2011-09-15T08:58:00.000-05:00

Seeing Jenna's post about she and Billie going to Bouchercon this weekend gave me a tinge of regret. Bouchercon is an experience every author should have. One thing people don't always realize is that Bouchercon is as much for fans--maybe even more--than it is for mystery writers.

Bouchercon is the biggest mystery event there is, meaning it has the biggest name mystery writers and the most people attending. I went to last year's in San Francisco and had a marvelous time. It can be a bit overwhelming because of the number of people.

Bouchercon is a great place to talk to other writers and meet fans--for an author with a small press it isn't the place to sell a lot of books. I didn't even try last year. My goal was to have a good time--and I did.

Left Coast Crime is also a convention--not quite as big or as intimidating as Bouchercon. Last year it was in New Mexico, and Oak Tree's own Michael Orenduff won the prestigious Lefty award. 2012's LCC is being held in Sacramento, and yes, I'm already signed up for that one.

Thrilller Writers have a convention too, so far it's always been in New York.

Romance writers have two huge conventions every year, one put on by Romantic Times and the other by Romance Writers of America. I've never been so can't really comment on what they are like except to say I know both are really expensive to attend.

A conference is an event where you got to learn something. Though there are panels and speakers at conventions that impart wisdom, a lot of what's going on is a showcase for authors and that's why the fans go to see and hear their favorites.

A conference like PSWA is geared to help writers of all kinds, mystery, non-fiction, etc. It is a writers conference.

This weekend I'll be an instructor at the Central Coast Writers Conference in San Luis Obispo, my topics Mystery Writing 101, and The Importance of Setting, or Where the Heck Are We? Lots of stuff is going on around the conference too.

We'll be having dinner tonight with mystery authors Victoria Heckman and Sue McGinty and their significant others. Tomorrow the conference begins. Saturday is the day I give my classes, and that night there is a special party for all those who worked at the conference.

Sunday is the Central Coast Book and Author Festival where I'll have a table with my books--and a few other OTP authors will too. I'm giving a talk at 11 on Where I Get My Ideas.

So if you never knew before, that's the difference between a convention and a conference.

What you get out of any of these events is really up to you. It's important that you talk to everyone and not just hang out with friends. Have cards with your book cover on one side and information about you and your book on the other and give them out to everyone.

Those of you at Bouchercon, have a great time!

Marilyn
http://fictionforyou.com

Thanks,Jeana

2011-09-13T10:38:00.001-05:00

I love the posts Jeana is sending out about the signings and appearances OTP authors are doing. While I can't attend any of them, being a little off the beaten path, I enjoy the way they help me keep in touch.

I'm doing a signing at the local Hastings bookstore this Saturday. I'm going to try lassoing the people who come in to rent movies. Think it'll work?

Carol

Word's getting around

2011-09-12T19:15:00.002-05:00

I'm guest blogging at Have a Marlis Day!, http://marlisday.wordpress.com. Marlis Day is an author who lives in Southern Indiana, not far from where my mystery, "The Baffled Beatlemaniac Caper" is set. She graciously interviewed me for her blog and so far I have two comments from people interested in the book.

Last week the Acorn Newspapers in California ran an article about my book. Someone on the East Coast saw the story on the Internet and posted a link to her website, www.beatlesnews.com.

The power of the Internet continues to amaze me, that people across the country can be in instant communication and authors can send out publicity coast to coast in minutes. Stay tuned!
Sally Carpenter

KEITH BETTINGER 9/11 GUEST BLOG

2011-09-11T14:11:00.003-05:00

I re-posted Keith Bettinger's post about 9/11 on my blog at
http://www.gumbojustice.blogspot.com/

I wasn't planning on a guest blog but when I read Keith's post I emailed him and asked him for permission to re-post it because I found it so compelling, particularly from him.

Holli Castillo
www.hollicastillo.com
Jambalaya Justice now available

HELP WANTED!

2011-09-11T12:20:00.001-05:00

Sunny here.

I was asked what an acquisitions editor does, so I wrote a sassy piece for the following site. Had much fun with the "Help Wanted" ad (fictional, of course).
http://sweatercursed.blogspot.com/2011/09/please-welcome-acquisitions-editor.html?spref=fb

Book Festival For All Ages in San Luis Obispo, CA

2011-09-09T12:04:00.004-05:00

For the third year in a row, I'll be at the Central Coast Book and Author Festival in the San Luis Obispo Mission Plaza, Sunday September 18 from 10 am to 4 pm. Held each year by the Foundation for SLO County Public Libraries, this event features public readings, book sales and various workshops. Also included is a display at county libraries of handmade book art and illustrations for published books. I'll have a table at the festival selling my children books, will participate in the public readings and have had several of my handmade books and illustrations displayed at the public libraries.

Like many book festivals, I find it is great fun talking with the public, especially the children who stop by my table. I encourage them to write and illustrate their own stories and publish them. As part of that encouragement, I show them a book my 4 year old granddaughter Zoe, wrote and illustrated and a story of mine illustrated by another 6 year old little girl. This interaction also gives me ideas for new stories and allows me to see how these children react to my books and illustrations. I find that children are very honest critics. I'm looking forward to this year's festival. If you're in town, drop by, Beryl Reichenberg

Devil's Kitchen

2011-09-06T12:06:00.001-05:00

Kings River Life Magazine just gave a great review on Clark Lohr's "Devil's Kitchen" They are doing a giveway as well http://kingsriverlife.com/09/03/western-america-native-american-mysteries/

Jambalaya Justice

2011-09-06T11:53:00.001-05:00

Kathryn over at Mysteries Etc just posted a great review of Jambalaya Justice by Holli Castillo you need to go check it out .....http://mysteriesetc.blogspot.com/2011/08/review-jambalaya-jutice-by-holli.html

Possum Belly Queen

2011-09-06T10:51:00.002-05:00

Terry Ambrose ( a contact and recent friend of mine) Just wrote a wonderful article on Possum Belly Queen by Robert O'Hanneson. Definately worth a read .... http://www.examiner.com/fiction-in-san-diego/possum-belly-queen-carnivals-and-human-trafficking

Waiting for TS Lee

2011-09-03T17:27:00.003-05:00

Down here in N.O. we are stuck indoors for a few days, waiting to see what kind of flooding, power outages, and wind damage tropical storm Lee may cause. It started yesterday, the pelting rain and hail and blustery wind keeping me up all night, waiting for the telltale sound of the freight train we've been warned accompanies tornadoes.

The rest of the family slept just fine, blissfully unaware that I was up, alternating between watching the news alerts and peering out the window, searching for funnel clouds. The weather isn't so bad at the moment, breezy with sporadic rain, but the storm hasn't even reached the coast yet. When it strikes land, we'll be in for a little action, because N.O. is going to be on what is referred to as the "wet side" of the storm, east of where the storm makes landfall.

I'm trying to decide how to use the downtime. I have promotion to do for Jambalaya Justice, my writer sites to catch up on and organize, and paperwork for my daughter's school--where I'm PTO president--to complete.

With all of that, the main thing I feel like doing is working on number three in the series, Chocolate City Justice. Coincidentally, I was contacted last night through Facebook by the fiance of one of the police officer defendants convicted in a major Katrina police shooting. She wanted to know if I might be appointed to represent her fiance on the appeal, but since it's a federal conviction and I'm appointed for state court only I won't be. She mentioned he read Gumbo Justice in a few hours and she is getting Jambalaya Justice for him to read while he awaits sentencing. I also mentioned to her how I am working on the third book which takes place during the hurricane and how eager I was to make sure I accurately and fairly portrayed the struggles faced by the NOPD during that time, and she said she would be happy to pass any questions along to him or set up a meeting with him. It's definitely a small world.

Holli Castillo
www.hollicastillo.com

Writing is a Passion by Marva Dale

2011-09-01T22:46:00.000-05:00

Since my retirement, I've concentrated on my love of writing. My first published book came about as a fluke when I sent my query and manuscript to the wrong publisher. Fortunately, the publisher liked my writing and now I have eight ebooks published through booksofdesire.com in the sexy romance genre, and written under my pen name of Deborah Merrell. Now, under the nom de plume of Marva Dale, I'm proud to say I'm a new author with Oak Tree Press. My new series, Death by the Decade, features a murder mystery within each decade, staring with my 1920s novel, Deah of a Flapper. I really find it exciting as well as educating delving into the series and coming up with new story lines. So far, I'm up to the '70s, and my working titles include Fatal Follies (30s), Dangerous Victory (40s), Blue Suede Kill (50s) and Decease Signs (60s).
So, I've been writing, writing, writing! Thankfully, I have a very understanding husband who encourages my passion, whether I'm writing as Deborah Merrell or Marva Dale. If you'd like to find out more about my work please visit my website at: merrellspassion.info. Plus, you can follow me on Twitter @merrellspassion and FaceBook. To me, writing is a great passion and I do it because I love it! And I'm just thrilled that others enjoy reading my works. Salud and happy reading! --Deborah Merrell/Marva Dale.

2011-09-01T18:00:00.001-05:00

Morgen Bailey has posted an interview with me. I'm #113. She does great interviews and really knows how to draw one out. Check it out here: http://morgenbailey.wordpress.com/2011/09/01/blog-interview-no-113-with-historical-and-suspense-western-author-carol-crigger/

Carol
TWO FEET BELOW

Jambalaya Justice

2011-08-31T23:14:00.008-05:00

I am excited to announce Jambalaya Justice is now shipping from Amazon and Barnes and Noble. I can't wait for it to be available on Kindle and Nook as well.

I happened to set up my author page for Manic Readers finally, and on the side bar saw a review had been posted to Amazon of Jambalaya Justice already, from someone I didn't know. It was only 4 stars, but it was actually an excellent review. The part I most appreciated was that the reader said you didn't need to read Gumbo Justice to enjoy Jambalaya Justice. That was one of my biggest fears, not knowing if I included enough back story for the current story to make sense, or if the previous information was introduced in a subtle enough fashion. There is nothing as distracting as an info overload. Most writers make the mistake of info dumping at the beginning, but even doing it further into the book really can draw the attention away from the story.

I envy those writers who can wrap up a story so completely in a novel that they barely need to refer to anything that has already happened in the past. Especially ones who tie up the story and still end with a cliff hanger to push you into the next book.

In any event, I was extremely pleased to see a review from someone I didn't know. As writers, we all have writer friends who will go and write an excellent review for us even if they weren't particularly thrilled with the book, right or wrong it's a little quid pro quo for when their book comes out. And of course family members who mean well will gush in a book review, not realizing anyone who reads the review may guess it's the writers mama or daddy writing the review. So it did my heart good to get a completely unsolicited good review from someone I don't know, especially when I know only a few books were sold before they were resubmitted.

So now it's time to up the promotion and get the machine going again, as I work on the third novel Chocolate City Justice, which so far is a little different than the first two books. Taking place just as Katrina starts, I don't have my courtroom scenes to fall back on, which I think is one of my strengths but also my safety net. In Chocolate City, it's just the characters who are getting tested by mother nature and by each other, and it might just be a little bit darker than the first two. I can't wait to finish it!

I am also trying to organize my blog so I have different features each day, and am hoping to have more guest blogs, interviews and reviews, so once I have it organized I'll be sending out a shout out for anyone who wants to contribute and get a little face time on a blog. Until then, check out Jambalaya Justice and leave an unbiased review if you get a chance.

2011-08-31T17:15:00.002-05:00

Just thought I'd mention a little something I noticed as I was selling books at a multi-author signing last weekend. Altogether, our two tables held around twenty books. Two of the books were mine, one of them being Two Feet Below, published by OTP. As people strode past, I could see their eyes were caught by Two Feet's cover, and when they stopped to browse, about seven times out of ten it was Two Feet they picked up. I won't say a county fair is the best place to sell books, but at least I gave out a lot of post cards and business cards, and I'm gratified that my book's cover draws so much attention. Thanks, Billie. Here's hoping we can find one that works as well for Three Seconds to Thunder.

Carol

It's all about cooperation...

2011-08-30T10:22:00.000-05:00

I feel like I've been walking under a lucky star the last two weeks and want to share the ride and recognize Jeana Thompson for all the work she does on behalf of Oak Tree authors. I just want to encourage everyone to do everything that Jeana asks for publicity for Oak Tree. Two weeks ago I received a great review for A Case of Hometown Blues" in the Lansing State Journal where I was called a “promising Michigan author” in the same article with Loren D. Estleman, one of my all time favorite authors! You can read it here: http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/article/20110814/ENTERTAINMENT07/108140441/Michigan-writers-impress

Jeana must have sent them an ARC. On a side note, the reviewer owns a book store that I will surely be visiting in the next few days! Earlier this week Jeana sent out an email about Manic Readers. They also do a great job. My review is at
http://www.manicreaders.com/index.cfm?disp=reviews&bookid=16121 For a taste of it: “A Case of Hometown Blues is a good story with several twists and turns along the way. It clearly brings out the vulnerability of the protagonist as he searches for the truth. The remaining characters were well done and the plot was very good as well.”

My third review was from one of Sunny’s recommendations. John Brantingham said “I recommend "A Case of the Hometown Blues" for its realism and the fun you’ll have by following Malone.” See the entire review where he talks about psychopaths at
http://diamondbar.patch.com/blog_posts/a-case-of-hometown-blue-by-ws-gager

I’m not a superstitious person but I am feeling very lucky and honored. Third book, three great reviews and the hope that all this will begin to translate into getting the word out about my Mitch Malone Mysteries. It is never too early to begin talking about your book and lining people up to do reviews. Start early, quickly get Jeana everything she needs and don’t give up.

W.S. Gager
www.wsgager.blogspot.com

"Bogey Nights " Marja McGraw

2011-08-29T12:15:00.001-05:00

New review for " Bogey Nights " by Marja McGraw go see it at http://www.nightowlreviews.com/nor/Reviews/Josie-reviews-Bogey-Nights-by-Marja-Mcgraw.aspx

Wendy Gager "A Case of Accidental Intersection "

2011-08-29T12:06:00.001-05:00

Go Check out Wendy Gager's " A Case of Accidental Intersection " Review http://www.nightowlreviews.com/nor/Reviews/Josie-reviews-A-Case-Of-Accidental-Intersection-by-W-S-Gager.aspx

A teen idol speaks his mind

2011-08-29T10:27:00.003-05:00

This week (starting Aug. 29) the protagonist of my new OTP book, The Baffled Beatlemaniac Caper, discusses his first case on Paula's Coppers, a fun blog that interviews the characters rather than the author. My hero is Sandy Fairfax, a 38-year-old former teen idol/TV star that unwittingly becomes an amateur sleuth when he makes a guest appearance at a Beatles fan convention. Enjoy! www.paulapetty.com/paulas-coppers.html

Sally Carpenter

Crafty Killers

2011-08-26T10:36:00.002-05:00

I'm blogging today at Killer Crafts and Crafty Killers http://anastasiapollack.blogspot.com/2011/08/book-club-friday-guest-author-mike.html, and giving away a free book to a randomly selected person who leaves a comment. The selection is by Lois, the host, so I can't guarantee that one of my Oak Tree friends will be chosen, but you can't win if you don't comment. Plus, you might be interested in what I say about why we read. Then again, you probably already know my answer.

Mike Orenduff

WELCOME TO JEFFERSON COUNTY

2011-08-21T09:00:00.002-05:00

I moved to a small town in Humboldt County, California almost ten years ago, and I’ve wanted ever since to write about Humboldt’s amazing geography, its scenery, its history, its economy, and mainly its people. The trouble is, I write fiction—mystery fiction—in which people get killed and things sometimes get ugly. I didn’t want to paint my home town and my home county in a bad light, and I didn’t want to get in trouble with friends who don’t understand the difference between “normal” life, where conflict is to be avoided or quickly resolved, and fiction, where conflict is required and even relished.

So how could I celebrate this remarkable place, this land of rocky coastline, rugged mountains, and forests of towering redwood trees; this gentle balance between meadows full of peaceful dairy cows, fishing harbors, town squares, friendly taverns, and Victorian houses; a land rich with the history of lumbering, salmon fishing, and Native American culture? Not to mention the illegal cash crop for which Humboldt County is best known. Can’t leave that out.

Problem: I don’t want to tick off the authorities. Do I want the county sheriff, the city police, or the town council to get their feelings hurt by this newcomer, this mystery writer, who thinks law enforcement can sometimes be inept or corrupt? No way.

Problem: I don’t want to do a lot of research on the history of Humboldt County and try to get it right but inevitably get it wrong in the eyes of some local historians, because the history of this county is to a large extent a matter of contention.

So I’ve done what we all do in this business. Made it up from scratch. Forget research. Forget the facts. I kept the salmon fishing and the logging and the Native presence and the scenery. I kept the mountains, the redwood forests, and the rocky beaches, the town square and the friendly bar. But I have peopled the place with fictional characters who have somehow become realer to me than the people I meet on the streets, roads, and trails when I’m not writing.

Novelists get to do that, and it feels powerful and fun. We are historians of feuds, fights, and fanfares that never happened. We tell the truth about a bunch of lies. We dial up the drama of “reality,” in the interest of entertainment. And sometimes people get hurt. Some even get killed. Too bad. Some people fall in love. That’s nice, unless it’s also too bad. Love and death. It happens to us all.

And in fictional Jefferson County, California, up in Redwood Country between the rocky Pacific shore and the Jefferson Alps, you’ll find love and death in high gear. I invite you to come and visit me in Jefferson County, by reading my new mystery novel, Behind the Redwood Door, in late November, when it will be published by the wonderful folks at Oak Tree Press.

Publishing Options and Choices

2011-08-19T09:45:00.002-05:00

We do have a lot of choices these days.

I know many authors are choosing to publish themselves on Kindle. Unfortunately, some haven't done the final editing and polishing--and others aren't even at the stage where they should be published.

I don't know about anyone else, but I went through many stages of learning about writing: First I was a voracious reader, so I knew what books were supposed to look and read like.

I subscribed to Writers Digest and read it from cover to cover.

I read many books on writing and publishing.

I went to writer's conferences.

And all the time I was writing and submitting.

I learned the most about writing from the critique group I joined in 1981 and still belong to.

Despite all that, I'm quite happy to have a publisher who takes care of the formatting, designing the cover, etc. etc.

That's my choice.

Marilyn

MORGEN BAILEY INTERVIEW WITH WAYNE DUNDEE

2011-08-17T10:23:00.000-05:00

Hi Everybody -

Thanks to the tip Jeana sent out to everyone last month, I did an interview for Morgen Bailey and it posted today (8/17/11). Morgen has a very interesting, entertaining interview style --- interspersing her own comments and reactions with the questions so that the overall result seems more like, as she puts: "A friendly chat." When I mentioned that I had a book published with Oak Tree Press she responded that OTP authors were "popping up everywhere". Prior to my interview she has already posted other writers from our group.
You can check out the whole works at: http://morgenbailey.wordpress.com/blog-interviews

Persevere --- WD

Off to Nipomo and Another Book and Craft Festival

2011-08-17T09:25:00.003-05:00

On Friday we'll head over to Santa Maria (CA coastal city) and check into the Santa Maria Hotel. It's an historic hotel where all the old-time movie stars would stay when headed up the coast. The rooms have labels as to who stayed in which room. We've stayed there before and it's interesting and has a bit of a haunted feel.

Our plan is to have dinner in Pismo with friends, a fellow author and her hubby, I usually only see her once a year--but this year she also came to PSWA so I had another chance to visit with her.

On Saturday, we'll both be at the Nipomo Library's Book and Craft Fair from 9 to 2. I've attended this event twice before and though it's small, there are lots of book lovers in Nipomo. Isn't that a great name for a city though?

The following week we're jumping on a plane for Nashville with our destination being Killer Nashville. Our fearless publisher will be there too, so I hope to spend at least a little time with her too.

What are you up too?

Publishing options

2011-08-16T11:11:00.001-05:00

Sunny here.

Over at Anne Allen's blog she describes various publishing options. I felt she described small publishing very well.

http://annerallen.blogspot.com/2011/08/way-we-publish-now.html

Speaking of Lion's. . . .

2011-08-14T19:37:00.003-05:00

I went to the Lion's Club in Hanford as a guest speaker. They DO like their beer! They tried to get me to chug, but I don't drink when I'm presenting. However, I was in the Navy and won a few chugging contests. . . .They served BBQ chicken at the free buffet-- too bad I don't like white meat.

Sold $70 worth of books, did give-aways of 3 books, a horoscope and to be a character in A Snitch In Time. They want to give me a book launch.

Did you know Lion's Club was promoted by Helen Keller? Their mission is to give eye care to the needy. They also put on a beer fest around here.

2011-08-14T17:27:00.002-05:00

Last Saturday I took my books to a rural farmer's market. I sold a few--enough to make expenses plus a bit over, but then something wonderful happened. On Wednesday I received a phone call. The woman who'd bought one of my westerns wondered if she could come to my house and buy another. Not being a total idiot, I said yes. This lovely lady bought four more various titles and is already looking forward to Three Seconds to Thunder when it comes out. Made my day, I can tell you. Happy sales to everyone.

Carol

Two Feet Below

Robert O'Hanneson's Interview

2011-08-12T08:48:00.002-05:00

Go See Robert O'Hanneson's Interview with Morgen Bailey on Possum Belly Queen http://morgenbailey.wordpress.com/2011/08/12/blog-interview-no-92-with-mystery-thriller-author-robert-o%e2%80%99hanneson/

Secretaries, then and now

2011-08-10T13:54:00.001-05:00

Sunny here.
Not sure if you are aware that Oak Tree has started a Western line, Wild Oaks. Carol Crigger is one of our first Western titles published. She got a terrific review over at
http://www.westernwriters.org/2011_August_Roundup_BOOKSHELF.pdf

One part of her review made me think that protag China Bohannon is somewhat an earlier version of my character, Christy Bristol. This is the description in the review that brought that thought into my head:

"Although China’s job is to answer messages, send out bills, take care of the books, and handle other office work, truth is, she has a nose for trouble and for getting to the bottom of a case."

I guess secretaries have always been a "problem" in the work force!

IN A WORD

2011-08-09T12:45:00.002-05:00

Sunny again.
I'm over at Buried Under Books doing my every-six-week blog. This time I'm talking about the word choices authors make and how to improve your writing.
http://www.cncbooks.com/blog/2011/08/09/in-a-word/

FYI

2011-08-09T10:57:00.001-05:00

Sunny here, business as usual.

You know how your email gets cluttered with notifications of all those sites you were interested in but no longer monitor? Today, I did a bit of clean-up. I unsubscribed to sites that I really stopped being involved with a long time ago. However, I found a site I'd basically been ignoring. It's called Meet Up info@meetup.com I suppose it's everywhere but you are notified by your zip code.

Today I contacted two meet up groups to see if they would be interested in having me come and speak. The first was a group of women from the nearby Navy base. It can be boring and daunting to get stationed in a place you know nothing about. Good thing I write exclusively about the San Joaquin Valley! I also grew up on that base and have maintained my military ties with the American Legion. If this group accepts me, I can get them involved with other literary events in the area, such as the Hanford Book Fest, Sisters in Crime and my book launch.

The second group I contacted was a professional women's group. I also offered to speak, this time on being acquisitions editor for a small publisher house.

Tonight I'm speaking at the local Lion's Club. I met one of their members while on a train ride and he suggested me as a speaker.

I encourage all of you to investigate this site and see what groups are available to sell your novels.

Why does it have always have to be about the sex scene?

2011-08-07T22:43:00.003-05:00

People always mention the sex scene: reviewers, coworkers, parents of friends and loved ones, fellow writers, and random fans on the Internet and in person. Without fail. Always.

The sex scene.

Some back-story: I have a scene in my book where the main character runs over another person with a police car. The guy who gets run over was shooting a gun at the time. In a different part of the book, the main character bites a dude’s ear off. But do these various readers ever talk about that exciting and dramatic prose? Nope. The sex scene wins out every time.

I once spoke on the phone with a reporter from the SF Weekly here in San Francisco, a reporter who wound up writing a review in said newspaper. She thought the book was kind of like “cop-porn” at parts. I laughed and then promptly sighed with deep, heartfelt resignation.

Just to be clear, there is ONE sex scene in my book. One. It’s in the first few chapters. It happens in a bathroom, so it’s not very long - a few pages at best. Two people can only have sex in a public restroom for so long before it becomes either terribly apparent that it:

a. smells really horrible or

b. you get kicked out.

It’s not really a romantic endeavor. It’s more carnal and usually brief. To carry such a scene on any longer would completely blow the suspension of disbelief.

None the less, bam. Every-freaking-time.

I ask of this blog’s readers: have you ever read any William Gibson? Even if you aren’t a fan of the cyberpunk/sci-fi genre, you have probably heard of his novel, Neuromancer. It’s generally considered to be the first such novel in the genre.

Well his books are literally filled with sex - sexual tension, sexual innuendo, sex with underage girls, violent sex, sex in cyberspace (long before anybody had any idea that would be something that could actually happen one day), and sex in various forms of transportation.

I guarantee you nobody ever asked him about the sex scenes in his book. Why? Because he was brilliant. I’m just a hack who hopes you like fart jokes and violence. I guess sex in bathrooms, too.

Daniel B. Silver wrote a book once and you can buy it through OTP and B&N. Laugh with him or at him via www.dangersilver.com. Follow him at @DangerSilver.

Here's a piece by a former Border's Employee

2011-08-05T09:45:00.004-05:00

http://www.thestranger.com/seattle/books-without-borders/Content?oid=9322294

Here's a detailed article by a former Border's employee, telling of the chain's demise from his POV inside the organization.

I'll reserve my comments for a later time...

Billie

PS My apologies to Marilyn Meredith!

Why Westerns? Bonnie Kelly

2011-08-03T11:37:00.000-05:00

Westerns are not as popular as they once were. I don’t understand is why. Picture the world as it is today. The world of boom boxes, back up beepers (those really drive me insane), noise, noise, noise. Everywhere you turn, everything you do is contributing to making you deaf. Even in your home you can’t get away from it, your vacuum cleaner to your blender makes you crazy. Then you just sit down to watch your favorite television show and your next door neighbor has decided to have a party. You might be able to deal with the music if it wasn’t for the bass invading your house from the ground up through your cement floors right into your body and your brain which considers a violence you could not imagine yourself capable of.

Life changed for me when moved from a big city to 16 acres of lakefront property and spent summers swimming, boating and fishing, chasing fireflies, and watching Great Blue Herons silently hunt from turtle mounds and lily pads.

In spring lilacs bloomed, then dogwood, and after that autumn’s brilliant colors painted the trees surrounding the lake before the snow of winter brought its quiet stillness to the world.

We used kerosene lamps for light, drank fresh spring water from a pump outside the house and trudged out back to the outhouse. I walked 3 miles to a one room school house past apple orchards with no fences where we could pick the fruit. One bite into of those crisp apples and juice would run down your chin. Today they tell you to eat fresh fruits and vegetables, but who can stomach the dry mealy apples and unripe tomatoes passed off as healthy eating.

A move to the desert found us riding horses on Squaw Peak Mountain. A family of Navajo, wearing their native dress, rode into downtown Phoenix one Saturday afternoon in a horse drawn wagon. The desert sunsets were spectacular. In summer we’d camp at the lakes in the mountains to escape the heat.

I still have the urge to see things as they might have been and have camped in Sequoia National Park, as far south as Tampico, Mexico and as far north as Alaska. In 2004, I put my dog in a van and we traveled almost 10,000 miles across this awe-inspiring country. And this I know, these experiences have taught me that I’d rather hear a bird sing than a jack hammer pound cement. I’d rather here a chorus of frogs calling for mates than listen to some boom box pound in my head, and I’d rather listen to the wind in the trees and see the stars fill the night sky.

And this is why I write westerns. They can be many things, stories of adventure, romance, mystery and more. But whatever tale they choose to tell, of this we can be sure—it happens in a time and place of grand and glorious wonder.
I want to thank Billie for publishing my western novel, Blessings, Bullets and Bad Bad Men, first as an ebook and now being printed, and available at Amazon. And thanks to Sunny for always being available when needed.
As Billie would say. "YAAAY!"

Why Westerns? by Bonnie B.A. Kelly

2011-08-01T19:55:00.000-05:00

Happy Memories From a Dark Oak Winner.

2011-08-01T16:47:00.003-05:00

The call I received on that warm September evening eleven years ago changed everything for me. At 8:30 P.M. on the Monday of a Labor Day weekend, Billie Johnson of Oak Tree Press telephoned with mind-boggling news. My first Lake George Mystery, An Affinity for Murder, had been chosen one of two winners in her 2000 Dark Oak contest. Although Billie had notified me a few days earlier that I was a semifinalist and asked me to fill out a marketing form, I hadn’t jumped to any conclusions. I’d already experienced enough disappointment in the book publishing world that I thought her request might be only a formality. Marketing wasn’t my strong suit, but I developed a plan.

In her call that evening, Billie explained she’d intended to use the marketing form to help her choose between me and the other finalist, Wendy Howell Mills, author of Callie & the Dealer& a Dog Named Jake. Since she’d liked both our books, she said, and had been pleased with both our marketing responses, she’d decided to declare us co-winners.

Billie filled me in on the details, her voice fading in and out as she traveled along a Pacific coast highway. Almost three thousand miles away in upstate New York, I stared out my kitchen window, watching the sun sink behind the trees in the back yard and struggling to assimilate what this news meant.

The back story -- For me, getting words down on paper or up onto the computer screen provided the ultimate high. I’d found a variety of ways to make books and writing an important part of my life. I’d been a small town correspondent for an area newspaper, a high school librarian who loved reading, selecting and promoting books, a yearbook adviser and, after I became involved in our school’s career education program, a contributor of more than 100 articles on career topics to three magazines for young people.

My life was busy at home and at school. My husband and I juggled two full-time jobs, six children and lots of responsibilities. I loved writing for Career World Magazine, free-lancing for other career publications and submitting occasional pieces on books or travel to other magazines. In our lively household, I’d found the best way to squeeze in my writing was to set the alarm for 5 A.M. and get to it while the house was quiet.

Once I understood the basics of writing for publication, it was a hop and skip to writing mysteries. The nearby Lake George area, rich in history with present day tourism and environmental concerns, offered a terrific setting. Topping my list of possible subjects – Georgia O’Keeffe who’d spent fifteen summers at the lake and painted some of her best loved masterpieces there. Great research possibilities there for a librarian.

In my efforts to craft a story around long-lost O’Keeffe paintings, I was aided and abetted, as mystery writers like to say, by a terrific young writer, Matt Witten, at the time from nearby Saratoga Springs. When Matt taught a course for the Lake George Arts Project, he proved to be an inspiring teacher and pushed his students to try for publication. A few years before, he’d been awarded an Unpublished Writers Grant by the Malice Domestic mystery writers’ organization for his first book, Breakfast at Madeline’s. He urged me to apply, and I want to pass on his advice to others. I suggest that anyone reading this who has not yet published a book check out the information about the grant on the Malice Domestic website.

There’s plenty of time to apply before this year’s deadline.

Winning a Malice grant propelled me into another extraordinary time. Not only was I awarded $500 (the grant is $1000 now) and admission to the Malice Domestic Conference, but that was just the beginning. Soon after, an agent telephoned me. I had no idea how unbelievable that was. I put him off, not once but twice, before he called a third time and I agreed to have him represent me. Affinity made the rounds of New York publishers but, despite the agent’s efforts, it was rejected by one after another.

“Tell me what they don’t like and I’ll make changes,” I said, but it wasn’t that easy. “I liked it. I just didn’t like it enough,” was one of the standard responses. Comments like that didn’t help me discover how I could make the book more appealing.
By this time, Matt Witten had moved his young family to California where he’d become a writer for Law and Order, already a television hit. When he read about Oak Tree’s Dark Oak contest, he urged me to apply. Once again, his advice was right on target.
At the 2001 Malice Domestic Conference in Washington, D.C., co-winner Wendy Howell Mills and I signed books for one another, received our Dark Oak awards and appeared on panels to talk about our books.

The next year, An Affinity For Murder (unchanged) was nominated as a Malice Domestic Best First Mystery – another terrific time. Seeing news of this year’s Dark Oak contest on the Oak Tree website has brought back many happy memories I thought would be fun to share.

Check me out at www.annewhitemysteries.com
Anne White’s Lake George Mysteries: An Affinity For Murder ( Oak Tree Press,c2001). Other Lake George Mysteries: Beneath The Surface, c2005, Best Laid Plans, c2006, Secrets Dark and Deep c2007, Cold Winter Nights c2009, with Hilliard and Harris. Available on Kindle and Nook.

Challenge Accepted?

2011-08-01T10:53:00.002-05:00

Over on my Face Book page is an interview by Brit Morgen Bailey. I issued a challenge to all of you in the comments section. You can also find the interview at http://morgenbailey.wordpress.com/2011/08/01/blog-interview-no-81-with-mystery-and-children%E2%80%99s-author-sunny-frazer/#comment-581

Easier just to go on Face Book. I'll also post on the OTP FB site.