Day 19: Life Lessons #30DaysofGratitude

I'm thankful for my parents who blessed me with many life lessons. And I've been learning new things my whole life. Never stop learning!

Here are the top five life lessons, I really liked this image.

Join in sharing positive vibes and things you're thankful for!

Stop by others participating... Charity Bradford & Diane Burton

7 Ways for #Writers to Get Noticed

Hope everyone is well!
If you're cooped up, it's a great time to write, right?


Last week, I talked about the lonely, secluded life of a writer. This week, I'm telling you to face your fears and get out there and show the world your stuff! If you want your stories to be read, you're going to have to take some risks.

7 Ways for Writers to Get Noticed...

1. Make Connections - whether virtually or face-to-face, you have to say something if you want to get noticed. Go to a conference and meet other writers and readers. Comment on tweets, follow folks who say stuff you can relate to. See what you have in common and be open to what you don't. You never know who you'll meet!
2. Come up with a Gimmick - Some people have natural charisma or charm, others have to create something that draws people to them. It doesn't have to be something dumb or fake--it should represent you and your books. Like that guy on tik tok who rides a unicycle all the time - have you seen the one where he takes down a Star Wars AT-AT Walker? It's great! I haven't found mine yet, but I keep trying...
3. Give Stuff Away - Raffles, Giveaways, Sales, Prizes, Contests... People like free stuff and some of them will notice you when they enter for free stuff.
4. Post Pithy Prose on the Socials - There are a few twitter peeps I love reading. Some of them come up with great quotes or funny pics or thought-provoking questions. They have tons of followers. That's the way to do it! Unfortunately, I usually come up with my funny stuff while I'm at school away from my phone... (sure, that's it)
5. Try New Avenues - Find your readers. Where do they hang out? IRL and online. Create videos, pin stuff, make stuff and post pics of your success and/or failure. The more you do, the better.
6. Give and you will Receive - Guest posts, interviews, reviews, a street team. All great ways you can help other writers and they will help you in return!
7. Don't be afraid to look Silly! In fact, the sillier the better! But it has to be authentic. Sing, dance, recite, dress up, act something out. As long as nobody gets hurt, go nuts.

Even if you only get noticed by a few dozen people, that's a dozen more than knew you before. Maybe they'll pass along the great story about you to others. You never know... If you don't try, you'll never be noticed. Keep at it!

Speaking of getting noticed, I'm almost done with my Taking Back Beast World campaign. It's going pretty well! I've seen interest, made new connections, and republished. Always more to do, but very happy with how it's going. (Still making my rounds to commenters on my guest posts--a good problem to have!)

Today, I'm guest posting at Juneta's wonderful Writer's Gambit blog talking about self-publishing joys and woes, plus a surprise. And my buddy Christine Rains is giving me a super duper review shout out. Hope you can stop by!

And need some hand sanitizer? I'm doing my part with FREE E-books this week, plus Discounted paper books with a free hand sanitizer with each order! Here's the FORM

What advice do you have for getting noticed?

Ever meet someone who turned out to be a great contact?

Happy Writing!

and Wash your hands =)

Read all about it!

Time for IWSG February installment. I'm really struggling to figure out what to do about my books. I'm trying to stay positive that my 6th book will be published SOON, but it's very difficult when so many of my compadres are in sour spirits!

Then finally, I got some GOOD NEWS!

Firstly, I went ahead and commissioned the new cover for WINDY HOLLOW myself with the same artist who creatively crafted the covers of the first two books in the series. He's fabulous! He already sent me a terrific sketch and he captured the image I pictured perfectly. Can't wait to share it (and hopefully set a release date SOON!)

Good news #2 - I entered another Janet Reid Flash Contest--and I came in the top five, with some much needed positive feedback! And I also won a book--Yay! It was great to see Madeline Mora-Summonte got honorable mention in the contest too!

Then I realized that Ms. Reid is the best at giving authors cold hard facts and solid advice that works! So I sent her a question as I debate what my next step will be with my books... Basically, I asked if another publisher might be willing to pick up my series. I have a feeling that since my sales are but a trickle, it would probably be a No. But I look forward to her advice--Here's what she said...

So my dear IWSGers, the writing business has its ups and downs and we just have to deal with it and keep going. There are times when things get downright depressing. Then there are the moments of wonderful and surprising uplifts, so don't give up!

Keep Writing!

Try Something New - #Writers do more than write

I write adventure stories. I like action, suspense, and surprises. I encourage people to go out and do, to make life an adventure!

I also say: "the way to get noticed is to put yourself out there," which I know most of us hate doing.

So here's my advice, Take Baby Steps.
Trying new things might seem intimidating. So dip your toes in and test the water to see if you like it. Then, gradually go deeper... Or dive right in and make a splash. It's up to you!

Here's a list of things I encourage writers to try with small starts:

• Make a Video - Don't worry. You don't have to be a star or an actress.
• Starting Small - a slide show is easy to convert to a video. Experiment with easy, free movie making apps with captions and transitions, free/royalty free images and music. Before you know it, you have a book trailer! You might enjoy it and move on to bigger things...
• Film yourself reading an excerpt (TIP: be aware of your background!)
• Do a book review for a friend
• Make a scripted advice video
• More things to try: a Podcast or Vlog
• Self Publishing - This takes a lot of work and money, but if done right can be very profitable.
• Starting Small - there are many free publishing venues to try. Short stories and novellas are a great place to start with trying out the process. Two things you should splurge on: Cover and Editing (unless you are friends with an editor and you can trade services) Once you've experimented with a small publication, you can...
• Try a novel!
• Collaborate on an Anthology
• Compile some short stories
• Book Events - I always encourage authors to get out and represent your books.
• Starting Small - First, attend an event as a reader and see what it's all about, get ideas, meet authors, and get advice--build up confidence. Then try local libraries, bookstores, and free book fairs. Work your way up to...
• Bigger Book Festivals
• Book Conferences
• Vendor Events
• Conventions
• You'll be talking on an author panel before you know it!

So get out there and try stuff! Been there, done that? Share some of your advice!

And here's one of my adventurous friends for my Shout Out of the Week!

Patricia Lynne/Patricia Josephine

Patricia is a Michigander and transplant Yooper––that means she can hold her hands up and point to where she lives in the upper peninsula of Michigan. She's always been creative--starting with wanting to be a dancer, then an artist, and also a musician, in band all through school.

While at Grand Valley State College, she found out being an Art major wasn't for her, but she did learn a ton in her classes and met her hubby in an anime chat room, DragonBall Z. PS, she's a big anime geek.

She loves to cook, makes jewelry and knits--she even sold her wares at local craft shows. And add decorating to her list of talents. But once she tried writing a story she'd been daydreaming about, she never looked back. She even ventured into self-publishing. This woman isn't afraid to try new things!

You can find links to Patricia's books here.

And connect with her...

AND HAVE A HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

What's a Street Team??

First, I want to thank you all for the positive comments and vibes from my last "woe-is-me" post. On the financial front, we are moving on up--actually, downsizing to save mucho money and afford the latest college addition. Plus I'm ready to go back to work at my own pace. Things are working out, as they usually do! I also found some fabulous writing prompts that inspired some new stories! (Like the new IWSG Anthology Contest - Check it out!)

And I came up with a new outlook on life...

Life is like a favorite t-shirt--It starts out bright and clean but eventually gets worn out and stained. It also gets more comfortable and refreshed with every wash!

Next, I wanted to talk about "Street Teams" - What the heck are they? Have you heard of them? Do you have one? Does it work?

Well, I researched it and here's what I found:

• Street Teams have been around forever--they started out as marketing for new artists - Probably because they're cheap, relatively easy, and effective (article 1)
• A Street Team is a group of people actively going out and talking to your potential audience to help sell your product. They create BUZZ - How awesome is that?!

Authors could always use some help with marketing. It's a hard job to do on your own. So here are some thoughts and advice I compiled for creating and managing a Street Team: (article 2)

• RECRUIT! Doesn't hurt to ask. So ask. You have fans. You have followers. Create a form and offer it to them. Many will be happy to give your new book a shout out or tweet at the very least! Hopefully, you'll get some regular reviewers. Mentioning it on Goodreads is also a good place to recruit (article 3)
• PREP - Put together a rap sheet that includes expectations, volunteer duties, and room for suggestions. Let your Street Team pick and choose the best way they can help. Your Street Team will mostly be called upon to help with new releases, but can also be there for between-release-events as needed.
• INCENTIVES - your Street Team deserves a little something for their hard work. Give them a special name, too. And maybe offer a bonus trinket for recruiting more members to join in the fun!
• A SPECIAL PLACE - You need a way to communicate with your Street Team. Now, you can do a group email or even a group message, but for a broader method of notification and fast feedback, a Facebook Page might be more efficient. (article 4)

I know many people (like me) don't like to solicit help. But a Street Team is a voluntary group who shares your passion and love for your work. They want to promote and help you succeed. Then they are guaranteed that more of your books will be published!

I hope this was helpful. I'm going to start recruiting a Street Team soon for my next release: WINDY HOLLOW - which has a release date - January 19, 2019! Let me know if you'd like to read and review an ARC.

I'd love to hear your thoughts on Street Teams - Do you have one?

Thirdly, here are the results of my latest survey - interesting info on WRITERS CAREER GOALS:

Of those who have an agent, no one was sure if she was helping them, yet...

Do you have tips for making a living from writing?

• Diversify - be a speaker as well as a writer.
• Know how to market yourself well!
• Write a lot of books!
• No. Though I've found when I pursue something, it eludes me. When I stop chasing it, it comes to me. Like a cat.
• Not really. It's a personal thing with me.
• Nope
• Nope, just learning, watching and listening while taking notes and practicing.
• I wish I knew how to make money from writing!

Finally, the best for last. My SHOUT OUT OF THE WEEK:

ELIZABETH SECKMAN!

I'm so lucky to know this sweet woman in person! Liz and I live close enough to do book events together, at least one a year, sometimes more. We both raised boys, so we have lots to commiserate and relate with each other about--and we both have loads of advice, stories, and some recipes to share on our joint venture website: The Really Real Housewives of America. She's supportive, loves her family, and always sees the bright side!

Originally from Ohio, Elizabeth was moved to West Virginia and so was dubbed "Grit" as a child. She grew up in a tiny town with no red lights and no fast food where everyone knows everybody--oh the gossip! Thankfully she escaped to Marshall University then began a family of her own. (I'd say writing is her escape!) Liz is a daydreamer, a football mom, and an author of Women's Fiction & Romance.

"I have boys, books, and a dirty house. It's all good."

facebook ~ twitter ~ pinterest

By the way, since I'm in the process of moving, my posts will be a little scattered. But you know how life goes!

Got any advice or more info on Street Teams? Or how to make a living as a writer? Do tell!

Writing Inspiration - with Links!

Ever need a break from a WIP? Or find yourself ready to stab at something new and aren't sure where to start or what to write about? Like deciding how to cut a watermelon - you can't wait to eat it, but where to plunge the knife?

For July's Insecure Writers Support Group session, I thought I'd pass on a little writerly inspiration...

Writers are jam-packed full of ideas and stories. Most of the time... But sometimes we all need a little inspiration. When you're ready to write a short story or new book idea--especially if you're considering a genre outside your comfort zone--it can be hard to focus and pick a plot that can go the distance to become a full-fledged story. And usually our muses are scarce when we need them most!

So I've compiled some links for prompts, challenges, and even submissions! to help you choose a direction that will put you in the mood for writing...

• One of my favorite newsletters is from Shannon Lawrence, The Warrior Muse. she usually includes awesome links for submissions with topics that will inspire you - and they pay!
• If you're into new twists and stretching your writing muscles, try Chuck Wendig's blog Terrible Minds and his weekly challenge every Friday. Warning, he can be crass, but that's part of his charm--he tells the hard truths about writing!
• The IWSG has a fun little prompt every Wednesday on Instagram, plus extra daily challenges for the summer! Instagram itself with all the pics can be inspiration for a poem or a drabble.
• WEP - Write, Edit, Publish is a bi-monthly challenge sponsored by 4 fabulous ladies: Denise, Renee, Olga, and Nilanjana - and you might even win a gift card!
• A couple of author friends have published writing prompt/submission & publication books:
• A Pocket-Sized Jumble of 500+ Writing Prompts by Tyrean Martinson
• 10 Sparks to Guide you from Idea to Publication by Chrys Fey

If you have others to share, please do. We can all use some inspiration!
Happy Writing!

Now, for my SHOUT OUT of the WEEK!

GWEN GARDNER!

A partner in crime (& mystery) literally! We've been blog friends forever and were both honored to be part of the TICK, TOCK - A STITCH IN CRIME anthology sponsored by IWSG.

Gwen writes fabulous cozy mysteries solved with the help and despite the hindrance of ghosts, like from her awesome Indigo Eady series. Gwen adores travel and experiencing the cultures and foods of different countries. She is always up for an adventure and anything involving chocolate - not necessarily in that order.

I love her blog header - gorgeous!

FINAL NOTES...

While I was in Atlanta, I got to have lunch and catch up with Sherry Ellis!

See my newsletter for more pics and info on my whereabouts and going-on.

And there's only one more week for my BEASTLY SUMMER GIVEAWAY!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Reasonable Writing Goals and How to Stick to Them

For many of us, writing every day is a necessity, not just a goal.

But some days, our schedules don't allow any time to write. That's when we need to set goals--to make time! Here's my advice:

• WHAT'S YOUR SETTING? - I can write just about anywhere: waiting rooms, baseball fields, the pool, or anywhere I can find a quiet corner. Whether you need silence or sound in the background - we all have a special setting that helps us produce the best writing. How about you?
• WHAT'S YOUR TIME FRAME? - How much time do you need to feel like you've accomplished something? And is it reasonable to carve that much time into your schedule?
• WHEN DOES YOUR BRAIN WORK BEST? - Are you a crafty night owl? Or an early bird setting a trap for that worm? Pick the best time you can manage to steal!
• WHAT'S YOUR PRIORITY? - Do you have a deadline? Or can you freestyle? Sometimes, when we get that hallowed writing time, we spend half of it deciding what to work on. To save time, I jot down a list and revise it as I go, but sometimes I can write away and ignore it. It's your writing time, use it as you see fit!
• DON'T WASTE IT! - Stay off social media! Unless you are specifically using your writing time to research, organize, advertise, or publicize, DO NOT SURF! Save that for your other down time. We have work to do!

Now put all your answers together and set aside some time for YOU to WRITE. Voila! A customized, doable goal. And don't worry how much or little writing you get done--just keep at it!

\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\

And for this week's SHOUT OUT... The fantastic Fable Writer,

ANGELA BROWN!

I have been friends with Angela forever! She's positively perky, she always tells it like it is, and she's an excellent source for all things YA - especially dystopian and urban fantasty. She's published NEVERLOVE and THEY ALL FALL DOWN of the Shadow Jumpers series, FRAILTIES OF THE BOND and ATONE of the NEO Chronicles, and Coming Soon: BEACON, published by Evernight Teen publishing.

Recently, she's completed Fable Ranger II, in her MG Fairy Tale mashup series. Great stuff to look forward to!

She's also a part of Untethered Realms - a supernatural compilation of anthologies by a stunning group of authors - check it out on Goodreads.


Hope you have a great week!

And don't forget to enter my fun summer GIVEAWAY!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Keys to Breaking the Block

You're writing, writing, writing, then...


via GIPHY

BAM! Writer's block. Why are my characters here? Where are they going? And how do they get there?

Fear not! Writer's Block is all in your head - and so are the answers to each of the above questions. Instead of forcing them out, try these easy steps to clear your mind...

from yarn

Then, when it's prodigiously empty enough, the words will flow again!

Breaking the Block:

1. Take a walk
2. Have a snack
3. Phone a friend
4. Read
5. Watch a movie
6. Take a nap
7. Work on something else
8. Clean or organize
9. Play a game
10. Draw or doodle

There are so many distractions that can take your mind off your Block. It's like when a couple is trying so hard to have a baby, then they give up, maybe even adopt one, and Bang! Preggers! (I have several friends who've had this happen) It's because the stress is gone. Relax, stop worrying, and good things will come.

Please note I didn't say get on social media. I never recommend it for inspiration. Social media is like a narcotic painkiller - it's okay in small doses, but use it too much and it's addictive leading to abuse.

Now back to our Blockage. If you've tried a few of these things and you're still stuck on how to proceed, here are some methods for figuring out your characters' next moves...

• First, how far are they from the goal? Do they need to overcome more obstacles? Have you tortured them enough? If not, go to extremes. What's the worst that could happen? You will either argue with yourself or you'll use it.
• Next, ask some random questions, like: What's going on around them? Do they need to lose or find something to move on? How do they feel? Are emotions getting in the way? Do they need a surprise or shock?
• And lastly, ask yourself: What would you do if you were with them? Would you be snarky? or helpful? or tricky? or encouraging? or what?

Questions, What Ifs, Trial and Error - those are a Writer's Block's worst enemy. Ask enough questions and you'll be back into your story in no time!

~ + ~ + ~ + ~

Now for this week's shout out...

L. Diane Wolfe

Diane is insanely talented and hard-working! She conducts seminars on promotion, leadership and goal setting. With loads of experience and credentials, she travels the East Coast for interviews and speaking engagements, maintains several websites & blogs, offers book formatting consultation, and does sessions for schools.

Her latest guidebook is How to Publish and Promote Your Book Now! She also recently published an an inspirational self-help book Overcoming Obstacles With SPUNK! The Keys to Leadership & Goal-Setting with seven other authors which features the five keys to success.

“With a positive attitude, any goal can be achieved!” 

- L. Diane Wolfe, Owner of Dancing Lemur Press and Freedom Fox Press

~ + ~ + ~ + ~

Before you go--I have to tell you about these 2 GIVEAWAYS!

To celebrate my just-signed contract for Beast World #3 - WINDY HOLLOW, I set up a Giveaway on Amazon for 2 winners to receive paperback copies of #2, CRADLE ROCK. But naturally, that was over in less than an hour. I don't know how that happens!

So, since I haven't done a Rafflecopter in a long while, I thought I'd do one of those too. This one has loads of prizes and will be open for a month.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

(Or if you'd like to review it, I'd be happy to send you a free e-copy. Just ask!)

Thanks for stopping by!

How to Create Compelling Characters - the Wild Child

This week we have the Insecure Writers Support Group meeting.

With my new format, I try to encourage writers and give writing advice. But the IWSG is also a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on, or a crash-test dummy to smash if you need to let out frustrations. I actually did all of the above last week in my Really Real Housewives post, so I'm feeling much better.

My problems also took backseat perspective when I read some other way more serious circumstances of writers I'm friends with. I'm praying for C. Lee McKenzie (who just released a book and was struck by tragedy) and Cassie Mae (who's been a beloved example of finding joy in life and thankfully still with us). These  are blog-friends I've known and worked with for a long time. They're going through extremely rough patches and could use the support. Thank you.

And if you need to vent or celebrate - I'm listening!

~ * ~ * ~     ~ * ~ * ~     ~ * ~ * ~

Now, for my Character Advice...

Whether they know it or not, readers want to connect with characters. Readers love a book because they can relate to them. This connection steers the success or failure of a book. If readers don't like the characters, they don't care what happens to them and they'll put the book down, or not buy it in the first place. But how do we write good, quality, jump-off-the-page characters?

Here are my humble suggestions for traits of Compelling Characters:

• Use qualities that remind readers of themselves or those close to them - keep characters realistic. Ask the question: "Would someone really do that?" And if your character does it anyway, they better have a darn good reason--motivation other than just moving the story along.
• Not all good guys are perfect - they have flaws; not all bad guys are evil to the core - they have redeeming features. Just like in life, some traits are hidden, but come out eventually!
• Characters act the way they do for a reason - they aren't just nice or mean for the sake of the scene, there's got to be deeper roots to their personality traits. Readers see through fake, flat characters - like "B-movie actors," not worth their time or money.

Example: The WILD CHILD
This week is my middle son's 18th birthday - can you believe it? I certainly can't! He's my Wild Child, the Act-first/Pay-later, no risk too great Daredevil. His "Wonder Years" have been a complete saga, and we keep wondering if he will survive Part 2: Life In the Real World.

We pick up as the saga continues... My adventurous son has decided to forego college (for which he got a nice scholarship) and join the Army. He's been a "Me do it!" kid since he was two, so once he's made his mind up, there's no convincing him otherwise. It was unexpected, but not a complete shock. We've learned to just go with it, for the most part. We support whatever choice he makes and hope for the best.

I say all this to introduce him as a perfect Wild Child main character: He's hilarious, smart, and handsome - with zero thought for consequences. This has led him into trouble many times - perfect for an action movie with tons of pitfalls he has to figure his way out of. He's super sweet with an innocence about him, yet so mischievous and ornery. A lady-killer who hates to be told what to do and has trouble admitting when he's wrong. Like Han Solo or Peter Quill. That's my Logan.

And I love every bit of him, wouldn't change a thing. When he calls, you know it's serious -- I just cringe and bear it. One of these days, I'll write his action hero adventure story - I've got so much material!

~ * ~ * ~     ~ * ~ * ~     ~ * ~ * ~

And of course, I need to give my weekly SHOUT OUT!

Heather M. Gardner

We've been friends from the beginning--blogging beginnings, that is. We've helped each other through tough writing blocks, first book publishings, and dealing with not-so-friendly situations. Meeting Heather in person is definitely on my bucket list - as well as she lives in New York, a place I suppose I have to go sometime as the birthplace of the publishing industry in the US, right?

Heather writes Romantic Thrillers, starting with the juicy Maguire's Corner series, One Good Catch and Already Home. I'm not big on Romance, but Heather's got talent and kept my attention! She also shares the load as an Insecure Writers Support Group admin, as well as a caretaker of some unruly gnomes. A truer writing confidant you'll never find. So glad I know her. Stop by her place and say hello - she'd love it!

Have a great week, you guys. Thanks for stopping by!

How to Stand OUT!

Welcome IWSG-ers!

Are you outstanding in a field? or just out standing in a field?

my grandparents' Maplevale Farm--yes, that's a plane!

I think more often I feel like the latter... lost in a sea of hay fever. But seriously, have you seen how many books are out there? It's very hard to get noticed when you're five-foot-three in a forest of Amazons (ha ha) So what's a shorty to do? How can we get our books noticed?

Not that I'm a pro at this, but I do have some suggestions:

1. Have an incredible, impeccable COVER - it has to be eye candy, but not too detailed or busy. The title has to shine and the font/graphics should give readers a feel for the genre. It's hard to be unique, but not impossible - and worth a pro.
2. Be more SOCIAL - I'm not good at this. I don't want to post too often for fear of being obnoxious. But I've noticed people who are posting regularly and as long as it's not "buy my book" twenty times a day, it's good press. If what you say is funny and relatable, you'll get noticed and retweeted. I just wish I had more time to think up cool things to say... But that's where scheduling tweets and posts comes in handy. When I do get some spare time, I prepare several tweets/posts and spread them out over a week or two. I'm working up to more postings, but I still have that nagging - don't nag! feeling!
3. Be more VISIBLE - This one, I do. And I talk about it a lot because it's where I connect with the most readers and sell the most books. Get out there! Whether it's a book event, genre-con, or even a craft/vendor show, people want to meet the author! I just did an event this past weekend - see my NEWSLETTER for pics and details!
4. Reach out for Reviews and online Guest Appearances - This can be difficult, but you are your own publicist. There are many review websites, but most are clogged with a backlog of books to review, so ask early as you can. Other people to ask: people who liked your other books or that are friends with you on Goodreads. 
5. SALES and GIVEAWAYS - I've had good response on Goodreads and Amazon with raffles/giveaways and putting books on sale, but less so with giveaways on the blogs. This is something that needs constant promotion and outreach to get people to sign up... Hit or miss, but if done once in a while, worth a shot! The best way is to do a group giveaway, then there's cross-promotion!

If you have any thoughts or additional ideas - fire away!

And now for the results of our little #writerslife survey 16

Have you ever won a writing contest?

How many paper books do you own?

How many ebooks are on your device right now?

What percentage of your books/ebooks are unread?

How many story ideas do you have waiting to be written?

What is your go-to book/movie/place when you need inspiration (of any kind)?

• Harry Potter - still popuar with multiple entrants!
• Music, music, and more music - my guitar, or music that jives, but sometimes sad music
• My mind - Brain space!
• By accident
• The Prince of Persia, plus Star Wars, & Kevin Costner movies!
• Youtube
• Barnes and Noble
• Nature!

Some results were surprising, some were not, but all were fun to tally!

This month's survey will be about MARKETING - and to boost responses, I'm adding a GIVEAWAY for all participants! Look for it on April 16.

Lastly, I mentioned my Newsletter earlier, but it also has a sneak peek of the PRINCESS B cover. I finally found the perfect illustrator to represent her...

Got any outstanding advice? Can you relate to the survey results?

Enjoy the Spring! Happy Writing!
And Happy A to Z Blogging Month!! Tell me your theme if you're playing!

#WritersLife Survey 7 - How do writers make TIME?

I guess it was time I made a badge for my surveys, eh? This is my desk - it says, "Have fun, but get your work done!"

Well, over in my neck of the galaxy, we only have a couple weeks left of school. This past week, I really enjoyed my temporary classes, and I was able to do my own lesson for some new kids. It was a refreshing change of pace. I love seeing students light up with discovery and letting their own abilities shine through, connecting learning to life.

My regular kids come back Monday. Over this long journey, we've had some good days, some bad days, and some really bad days where I didn't know if I wanted to go back. But I always do. I won't let them get the better of me. Instead, I take these tough times and figure out how to make the next day better. I ask myself, What can I do to help a child who has a rough home life behave better? How can I inspire them to feel good about themselves? And I always PRAY! Sometimes it's not about the schoolwork. Kids won't listen or learn if they need attention or affection. They need to feel safe and important first. They need to know teachers care about them.

Moving on! Though it's been a worthwhile experience and given me many ideas, working so much has really taken a bite out of my writing time. Only two more weeks and I get to ramp it up in the summer! Woo hoo!

Which brings me to this month's survey. How do writers make TIME?



PS - HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY! My boys took me to see GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY for Mother's Day - I'm a happy Momma!

#writerslife Links and Survey Results - What are you looking for?

No fools on April 1 this year. It came and went without any teasing or jests. I was a little disappointed. But that's okay, I'm on spring break and enjoying my extra time off! Yippee!

I don't have any complaints this month for IWSG, so I thought I'd share some Useful Links & Advice for Writers in whatever stage of writing you might be in...

Stage One - Writing
**Believe it or not, this is the easiest stage! Here are some helpful links to get you through...

• Beta readers/CPs - I have some regulars, but I usually ask someone new with each book to get a fresh perspective
• Writer's Digest - awesome site for writing advice and writer chat rooms to ask writerly questions. It also takes you through all the next phases, with new agent articles and book event info
• Absolute Write - a total site for writers to communicate, bounce ideas off each other, and play writerly games - I had to give it up because I was having too much fun playing the games and not writing!
• The A to Z Blog Challenge - I made so many contacts through this challenge, going on right now! It's changed format to keep up with the times, but if you can get involved, it'll open your horizons!
• And of course, there's the IWSG! Beyond the monthly blog postings, the website offers many great articles full of writerly advice.

Stage Two - Finding an agent/publisher

• Query Shark - Janet Reid is the queen of queries and she tears them to shreds to help you get to the core of your query. Read and Learn!
• MS Wishlist - a continuous feed of agents and what they are seeking, right now!
• #PITMAD and more - twitter pitch contests held throughout the year with agents reading your blurbs! Hosted by Brenda Drake 
• Writing Contests - google and enter! smaller publications on your resume is a great start 
• Writing Conferences - google and GO! You can usually set up appointments to pitch to an agent which  is worth the experience even if you don't get a bite.

Stage Three - Marketing your book

• L. Diane Wolfe - this woman has tons of experience and great advice for marketing your book and more - check her out!
• Jane Friedman - I've been following Ms. Friedman since I started writing. She's got links, advice, news, and all the latest trends in the industry. Highly recommend checking her out.
• Book Events - google and GO! Get out there and sell. You have to start somewhere! (I've got lots of advice on book events)

Now for my #writerslife survey results

What's a good/constructive/funny comment you've received from a CP/Beta Reader or Editor?
It was tough to remember some, but here are a few that stuck out!

"n,lxdjfjgkzmgxdfbbbbbxkbzx... Oh! Sorry. Baby butt." - love this one!

It's a rough draft. Don't worry. You'll make it better. 

You're just sick! Meant in a nice way, I'm sure!

You just made me cry! two people said this =)

And here's one of mine - Hahahaha I always enjoy his brand of insanity in these books!

Lastly, I posted my quarterly newsletter this week with details about upcoming publications, my event schedule - where I've been, where I'm going (besides crazy) - and what I'm working on!

Subscribe to Tara Tyler's Newsletter