Comments for Rhemalda Publishing

Comment on What is the value of a book? by Robyn Chance

Robyn Chance — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 21:25:51 +0000

Thank you so much for this post. I really enjoyed reading about your found treasure and the story behind it. I couldn’t agree more with what you are sharing here.Some of my favorite afternoons/evenings have been spent in a book store. I come from a family of published authors, and writer’s. I know we create because we must and that we are fortunate to even have a publisher, but it is nearly impossible to just “be” a writer or painter without some other source of income. I remember all of our conversations re: the cost of printing, shipping etc, that raises the bottom line and makes certain printing options not options at all. Now, for my other curiosity…what is the book with the ugly orange cover called?

Comment on The Rookie Report: The Looking Glass by Annie Laurie Cechini

Annie Laurie Cechini — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 14:15:17 +0000

All good points, Steven. It’s hard to find that balance between having goals and having sanity. I think the key is to build your goals around things you can control. I can control how many books I write each year. I can control how many books on craft I take in. I cannot control how many books are sold or what the public response is to them. I think the thoughts of amazing outcomes are great, because they kind of give us a practice moment to think out how we would react, but I try to leave it at that and focus on what is within my ability to manipulate and improve on. Favorite quote: You cannot change the wind, but you can direct your sails.

Comment on The Rookie Report: The Looking Glass by Annie Laurie Cechini

Annie Laurie Cechini — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 14:12:02 +0000

Oh, and it’s so tough, Cas. It’s an addictive world, and I feel like we’re all encouraged to be obsessive about reaching goals that have nothing to do with improving your skills or becoming a better, kinder human being. I’m learning to ignore that side of things and, like you said, focus my energy on learning to tell great stories.

Comment on What is the value of a book? by Douglas

Douglas — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 04:17:57 +0000

I absolutely love this story. Thank you for sharing it. I hope that the trend is a case of things getting worse before they get better though I am sceptical. Again, really moving story.

Comment on ~The Power of One~ by Candace Bowen Early

Candace Bowen Early — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 17:48:03 +0000

I totally agree, Steven.

Comment on The MindMeister of Emma Hox by Emma Hox

Emma Hox — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 07:11:23 +0000

Sometimes I close my eyes and point at an area of the plot chart and then take the time to flesh it out. It is sort of fun that way.

Comment on The MindMeister of Emma Hox by Emma Hox

Emma Hox — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 06:27:42 +0000

Cas,
Every author must choose what works for them and as a math geek this method is my favorite.

I envy people that can just write and let the ideas flow. I have always wished that I could write that way. I think it would save me lots of time.

Emma

Comment on ~The Power of One~ by Steven D. Jackson

Steven D. Jackson — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 10:43:09 +0000

Blimey, what a story! It’s very heartening to hear tales of success and determination amongst all the gloom. If only the world had a few more Mistys!

Comment on The Rookie Report: The Looking Glass by Steven D. Jackson

Steven D. Jackson — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 10:38:12 +0000

I can’t deny I’ve thought on occassion “wouldn’t it be amazing if…” but I’m new to all this so I suppose it’s to be expected! Also I don’t really know how to make it come true, so I’m not losing any sleep over it! Then again if you keep your feet on the ground you’ll never reach the stars…

Comment on The MindMeister of Emma Hox by Steven D. Jackson

Steven D. Jackson — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 10:23:30 +0000

I don’t get the snowflake method either. I had a spider diagram up on my wall when I was revising for my final exams at university, but after spending days staring at connections I had thought were clever to start with I began to feel totally overwhelmed. Too many random thoughts and links. To this day I can’t look at the Criminal Justice Act without freaking out.

I’m more of a snowball person myself. Whack it all together in a lump and see how far you can chuck it. If you hit your mark, awesome. If not, grab some more snow and try again.

Comment on ~The Power of One~ by Candace Bowen Early

Candace Bowen Early — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 14:23:47 +0000

Thanks, Cas! <3

Comment on The MindMeister of Emma Hox by Cas Peace

Cas Peace — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 09:34:43 +0000

I’m afraid it’s not going to work for me, either, Emma! But it’s great that there are different methods of writing and I love hearing how they work for writers. Personally, I don’t even understand the explanation of this method, let alone being able to use it! It looks too much like a flow chart or something to do with mathematics to me – and that sort of thing scares me silly! So I will just stick to my “write ans let the ideas flow” method.

Comment on The Rookie Report: The Looking Glass by Cas Peace

Cas Peace — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 09:30:03 +0000

Annie, you are so right. Too many of us spend too long stiving for the wrong thing. Authors new to publishing especially, I suspect. The important thing is to concentrate on your writing, not trying to be the next huge name in publishing. Only great writing can achieve that, and a writer can only produce great writing by transposing his or her life experiences on to paper. That should be our goal – not some imagined and usually disappointing ‘Holy Grail’.

Comment on ~The Power of One~ by Cas Peace

Cas Peace — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 09:24:03 +0000

Yay Misty! She sure knows a good writer when she sees one!

Comment on Snowflake Method by The MindMeister of Emma Hox | Rhemalda Publishing

The MindMeister of Emma Hox | Rhemalda Publishing — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 09:38:15 +0000

[...] As a writer, I am fond of the Snowflake method of plot development. [...]

Comment on In my hands by Kate Fall

Kate Fall — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 04:46:43 +0000

Brian, you wrote a great novel and it will do fine out in the world! Congratulations. I loved reading Subliminal.

Comment on ~The Power of One~ by Candace Bowen Early

Candace Bowen Early — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 11:41:35 +0000

You are a very lucky man, but I think you already know that.

Comment on ~The Power of One~ by Brandon

Brandon — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 02:12:31 +0000

That friend? That’s my fiance! Yeah! *raises the roof*

Comment on In my hands by Cas Peace

Cas Peace — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 12:11:38 +0000

Brian, I know exactly how you feel. But just like your children, you can be proud of your creation as it steps out on its own. You have given it your all, and you must have confidence in it, just as you will your children. They might well make some mistakes, just as you will find that not everyone will like your book. But hey, if we were all the same, life would be boring. But you have created something that will live indefinitely, and that is something to laugh, dance, weep and sing about!

Comment on Read a Book in the Bathtub Day by Cas Peace

Cas Peace — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:59:46 +0000

I want one of those baths! Although I guess they’d get soggy pretty quick.
And I’d definitely turn into a prune if I read my current book, Fall of Giants by Ken Follett, in the bath as it’s HUGE! Fortunately, I prefer to read in bed!

Comment on I Don’t Have A Stomach for It by jbchicoine

jbchicoine — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:45:50 +0000

Candace, perhaps it is the ‘visual’ aspect of our personality (combined with an acute imagination) that keeps images with us for so long. Even when I watch television or a movie, it seems to take literally days and days for my brain to process disturbing images. And as you know, writing about a matter delves us that much deeper into other worlds, with all its imagery.

Comment on I Don’t Have A Stomach for It by jbchicoine

jbchicoine — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:45:13 +0000

Cas, On some level, I did want to draw attention to the issue, but I’m simply not the person to delve deeply into it. I did, however, enjoy watching Captain Wesley grapple with his prejudices, and growing as character. I hope I pulled it all off in a dignified and thought provoking way.

As always, thank you for your thoughtful comment!

Comment on In my hands by Douglas Brown

Douglas Brown — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 03:15:36 +0000

Congrats. Pretty awesome feeling, huh? The book looks great.

Comment on Taking It Beyond Inspiration by robynchance

robynchance — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 17:32:01 +0000

Thank you so much Cas! I say, let’s do it! My sister, Megan Chance, is a published author of historic fiction. She has asked me to create illustrations that she can add to her new YA, which I am very excited about. That sheep is Ewela, the main character in my new children’s picture book, “Ewela’s Bad Day”, and my hope is we can make a cute stuffed Ewela to market. We’ll see, but it would be fun. Thank you for all of your kind words, and support.

Comment on I Don’t Have A Stomach for It by Candace Bowen Early

Candace Bowen Early — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 13:42:13 +0000

Excellent post, J.B.

Being a visually oriented person, I also find it difficult to see disturbing images as they have a way of staying with me. Although I touch on matters I find important in my stories, it would be hard for me to research atrocities on a grander scale.

Comment on I Don’t Have A Stomach for It by Cas Peace

Cas Peace — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 13:32:02 +0000

JB, I admire you for tackling such a deep and troubling issue in your novel. I can imagine how you found it impossible to write any harrowing scenes. Still, your work will draw attention to it and that can only be a good thing. We do not always have to know the depth of horror inherent in such depravity to know it needs to be stamped out.
I’m looking forward to reading your book.

Comment on Taking It Beyond Inspiration by Cas Peace

Cas Peace — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 13:27:06 +0000

Robyn, I found this fascinating, thank you for sharing. You have such a talent for color and composition, all examples of your work that I’ve seen really draw the eye, the y almost beg to be looked at. I’m sure children are as irresistably drawn to them as I am. I especially love the ‘Dream Catcher’ sheep, he has such a cuddlable fleece! Makes me wish I was a children’s author, then I could get you to illustrate my books.

Comment on Lessons Learned by There Is No Magic Bullet « The Practical Free Spirit

There Is No Magic Bullet « The Practical Free Spirit — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 16:31:57 +0000

[...] there are the writers like Alexandra MacKenzie, who took ten years after the workshop to be ready to learn from one of her instructors. Because you can’t always control the timing of these sorts of things. And there are also the [...]

Comment on I Don’t Have A Stomach for It by J. B. Chicoine

J. B. Chicoine — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 04:07:50 +0000

Donna, I prefer to deal with the origins of a matter rather than the symptoms–even still, it’s such a huge issue; my novel only scratches the surface. Just the same, I hope to have dealt with it in a thought provoking as well as entertaining way.

Thanks so much for stopping over and sharing your thoughts.

Comment on I Don’t Have A Stomach for It by Donna Hole

Donna Hole — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 02:56:52 +0000

I doubt the atrocities of slavery would have happened without the avarice of prejudice. I think I’d rather read and exploration of that aspect myself.

It seems to have been a good choice for you JB; the story was told in the way it should have been and now its about to be published. Well done

……..dhole

Comment on Like Squeezing Blood From a Stone by Anthony

Anthony — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 20:55:17 +0000

I can’t wait to read it!

Comment on I Don’t Have A Stomach for It by jbchicoine

jbchicoine — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 18:09:00 +0000

Yeah, when I tried to write Captain Wesley as a slave trader, he said “I’m no saint, but I certainly will not be a party to such atrocities!” to which I said, “Yeah, but I’ve got this whole plot basically worked out–you’re gonna mess things up!” to which he responded, “Tough! Fix it or I won’t play!”

What choice did I have?

Comment on I Don’t Have A Stomach for It by Carol Newman Cronin

Carol Newman Cronin — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:11:41 +0000

And that is what’s so frustrating and yet so satisfying about our characters; they are part of us and yet wholly independent at the same time. And that’s why outlining doesn’t work!

Comment on Market Your Book Without Emptying Your Bank Account by Tiffany Cole

Tiffany Cole — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 05:04:39 +0000

Thanks! If I wrote a promotion book for authors, it definitely wouldn’t be full of traditional marketing terminology. Sure, I know a good amount of terminology, but I wouldn’t want my book to be like a textbook. I’d want it to be like…me conversing what I currently know about marketing to the best of my ability and hoping someone learns something from it, yknow. I’m certainly not an expert, so my aim would be never giving that impression.

lol, I’m just rambling now. ^_^

Comment on Market Your Book Without Emptying Your Bank Account by Tiffany Cole

Tiffany Cole — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 04:57:03 +0000

Thanks for reading it! I’m glad you found it helpful. Since I know there is so much more I can say about all of that, I had this feeling that this post would be too vague.

Comment on ~The WALL~ by Candace Bowen Early

Candace Bowen Early — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 17:56:47 +0000

Thanks, Michelle! I so wish I could think like you.

Comment on ~The WALL~ by Candace Bowen Early

Candace Bowen Early — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 17:55:07 +0000

That’s great advice, Robyn. Thanks, I’ll try it!

Comment on Lessons Learned by Alexandra MacKenzie

Alexandra MacKenzie — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:19:03 +0000

Cas, when I said “harsh”, what I really meant was, “He was brutally honest with us about the publishing industry, and we really didn’t want to hear it.” He’d say things like, “We get 800 short story submissions a month. The assistants pass along the best to me, and I have time to read the first three paragraphs, and they’ll tell me whether to keep reading or not.”

We were horrified. THREE PARAGRAPHS?!? You can’t judge me and my work in three paragraphs! Well, sitting here with the benefit of hindsight and years (decades, actually) more experience, I can say that he was simply telling us the truth. It just took me a long time to recognize it, accept it, and to then do the work needed to tell a potential reader in half a page that my writing is worth more of his or her time.

The intensified nature of the whole workshop also contributed to my issues at the time — people have described Clarion as a “boot camp for writers”. It basically compressed about two years’ worth of workshop experience into six weeks, and by the time Gardner did his week (the fourth week), we were all pretty fried and our emotions were on heightened alert much of the time. It’s not a workshop where people hold back on their opinions — they weren’t mean, just honest. Some of us had been coddled too much before attending Clarion by positive praise, and we truly did need to hear that our work wasn’t ready yet for the world to see. It was an incredibly valuable experience, and one that took me years to recover from! Some of my classmates went on to decent publishing careers — and some of them never wrote again. I’m glad I finally picked myself up again.

Comment on Lessons Learned by Cas Peace

Cas Peace — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:09:20 +0000

Alex, what a wise post this is! Not only does it highlight the merits of listening to the advice of those with more experience, it vividly reveals how difficult it can be to take that advice on board. Some of the latter, in your case, might be due to the way in which you received it. Your phrase “he was very harsh with us” is quite telling. In my younger days I was a horse-riding instructor, and I taught people of all ages and levels of experience. What this taught me, was that everyone learns at differing rates and that there are many ways of explaining something. As a teacher – of anything -you should always take your pupils’ individuality into account when trying to teach them. Maybe in your case, Gardner Dozois did not present his advice in the best possible way for you to hear. But there again, maybe you really didn’t want to hear it! These things work both ways.
I’m sure he’d be very proud of you now!

Comment on Twisted Tales by Michelle Davidson Argyle

Michelle Davidson Argyle — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 02:41:33 +0000

Oh, I love twists in stories. I think most good stories have them, but perhaps many do not rely on them. Sometimes they are just more subtle than others. Can’t wait to read your book.

Comment on Like Squeezing Blood From a Stone by Michelle Davidson Argyle

Michelle Davidson Argyle — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 02:10:13 +0000

Michael, I remember reading a post or several posts about this, and I think you’re right. It seems really natural to use stories in this way, and it probably just happens subconsciously for the most part. I think if I set out to do it consciously, it would be an epic fail. Hah.

Comment on Like Squeezing Blood From a Stone by Michelle Davidson Argyle

Michelle Davidson Argyle — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 02:08:22 +0000

Thank you, Meghan! I can’t wait to get it out there, that’s for sure.

Comment on Like Squeezing Blood From a Stone by Michael Offutt

Michael Offutt — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 01:56:43 +0000

I have often thought that writers use a story as a kind of catharsis. Hence the rise of dystopian fiction to echo things that are happening in the real world. Or in the rise of heroines who fight back against their attackers like those featured in the stories of Atwood or Stieg Larsson via “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo”.

Comment on Like Squeezing Blood From a Stone by Michelle Davidson Argyle

Michelle Davidson Argyle — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 17:09:35 +0000

Cas, thank you so much for your comment. I finished Scales last night, and I am so relieved and happy and excited and frightened about everything all at once! I definitely invest some of my soul in everything I write, but this one seemed to be more than usual, which made it that much harder. I’m so happy you understand.

Comment on Like Squeezing Blood From a Stone by Meghan

Meghan — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 17:06:38 +0000

Michelle, I LOVED Cinders and can’t hardly wait to re-read all three as the omnibus!

Comment on On Editing … A Door Called Sally. by Cas Peace

Cas Peace — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 10:53:57 +0000

Oh Robyn, that’s so funny! Yes, let’s all start using “midden” amd “sally port” – how awesome would it be to get them back in the modern dictionary! They’d have to credit Rhemalda and King’s Envoy in the entry, and that would be SO cool!

Comment on On Editing … A Door Called Sally. by Cas Peace

Cas Peace — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 10:50:44 +0000

Yes, Steve, your weird thing was definitely “slightly”. It was so funny that you didn’t realise how much you used it!
I hope I didn’t cause you too much dismay and horror when I edited Shifter – but I think you’ll now agree it was worth it!
Looking forward to reading the next book, btw.

Comment on On Editing … A Door Called Sally. by Cas Peace

Cas Peace — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 10:48:08 +0000

Michelle, I SO envy you having swords in the house! I really want to get one for myself (it would be the sword that Sullyan uses) but it’s diffiult to know what sites to visit. Do you or your husband know of any good replica sword makers?
And I so agree about Rhemalda – we are all very foirtunate!

Comment on Twisted Tales by Cas Peace

Cas Peace — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 10:44:20 +0000

Steve, you are one seriously twisted person! And don’t worry – I won’t give Shifter’s secret away either (whether there is one or not!)

Comment on Like Squeezing Blood From a Stone by Cas Peace

Cas Peace — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 10:35:31 +0000

I can’t wait to read your omnibus, Michelle, it sounds wonderful. Regarding your comment about whether painful fiction is more important than not so painful, I would say that it definitely is – at least for the author. I also believe that a writer cannot possibly hope to really connect with readers unless they invest some of their soul in everything they write. And investing your soul can be a painful (and also cathartic!) process.
xx

Comment on Market Your Book Without Emptying Your Bank Account by Cas Peace

Cas Peace — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 10:27:42 +0000

Great article, Tiffany. You absolutely should write a book about marketing! It’s great to read someone who can simplify all the wealth of confusing information out there and help writers make a sensible and effective marketing plan. You go, girl!

Comment on Market Your Book Without Emptying Your Bank Account by Tiffany Cole

Tiffany Cole — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 15:23:32 +0000

Thanks! Writing the article really helped me realize that I have enough thoughts about promotion and marketing from experiments over the years to actually self-publish a book on the matter. I did read a lot of Rhemalda posts before I wrote mine just to get a feel of the posts here (and because I’ve always wanted to read lots of posts here). I love the stuff you’ve posted, about your experiences doing things. Very insightful.

Comment on Market Your Book Without Emptying Your Bank Account by Sierra Carrillo

Sierra Carrillo — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 10:30:33 +0000

Very helpful, Tiffany. I plan on using some of these tips if not all. I’ve been waiting for this article to surface, and it’s well-written. Thanks.

Comment on Market Your Book Without Emptying Your Bank Account by Douglas Brown

Douglas Brown — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 04:13:59 +0000

Great job, Tiffany. Welcome to the Rhemalda blog. Very informative post that everyone should read.

Comment on Blog Tour Tips and Tricks by Market Your Book Without Emptying Your Bank Account | Rhemalda Publishing

Market Your Book Without Emptying Your Bank Account | Rhemalda Publishing — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 23:06:18 +0000

[...] guest appearing. For tips on how to go about putting your own virtual tour together, the article ‘Blog Tour Tips and Tricks’ by Rhemalda Publishing is extremely [...]

Comment on Plan Your Marketing Approach by Market Your Book Without Emptying Your Bank Account | Rhemalda Publishing

Market Your Book Without Emptying Your Bank Account | Rhemalda Publishing — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 23:05:56 +0000

[...] a book’s personality in regards to marketing? Well, Rhemalda has a great article called ‘Plan Your Marketing Approach’ that has the questions you should answer to properly come up with a marketing plan for your [...]

Comment on On Editing … A Door Called Sally. by robynchance

robynchance — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 01:20:50 +0000

I will have to try to start using “Sally port” in everyday conversation. For example, “Come on in, no not through the garage, use the Sally port.” Or ” Did you see the neighbors new Sally port? Now that is something!” I could also start to use the term “midden” more frequently. “Take this mess out to the midden will you?” or “Did you see the neighbors new Sally port, it belongs in a midden heap as far as I am concerned.” Yeah, I like that, thanks Cas,

Comment on ~Setting The Record Straight~ by Steven D. Jackson

Steven D. Jackson — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:32:15 +0000

Admittedly I have little knowledge of the world of big publishers, but I’d imagine that having less control over your work and over the entire process might be a bit of a shame. I like being involved; I’d hate to think what it’s like any other way. So if this experience is the “small publisher” experience; I think I’d choose it over the “big publisher” experience any day. As it is, I think this is the Rhemalda experience, which is in a league of it’s own and of which I’m proud to be a part.

Comment on On Editing … A Door Called Sally. by Steven D. Jackson

Steven D. Jackson — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:24:10 +0000

Michelle, I want your husband’s job!!!

Anyway…a manuscript covered in red, Cas? Hmmm now why does that strike a chord within me…a suppressed memory perhaps, of the dismay and horror of seeing more red than black…hehehe!

I think my particular weird thing was “slightly”. Slightly slightly slighty. Everywhere.

And I agree about the British thing. My next book has a lot of chapters set in and around Windsor (because I practically grew up looking at the Castle and my Mum wants me to put it in) so I may take another trip up there to remind myself of it.

Fantastic post btw

Comment on My favorite Part by Steven D. Jackson

Steven D. Jackson — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:17:35 +0000

That photo is amazing Doug, as is the post. I can’t wait to read Tamed!

Comment on ‘Arty Time! by Steven D. Jackson

Steven D. Jackson — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:15:52 +0000

Yay! Hope so!

Thanks for the comments guys; you both have books with amazing cover art so I’m very excited.

Comment on My favorite Part by Michelle Davidson Argyle

Michelle Davidson Argyle — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 04:49:39 +0000

I have to admit that one of my favorite parts of being an author is having people go out of their way to tell me how much they enjoy my work. It truly is a magical thing. Truly. I save all those emails and look at them when I’m feeling down. Rhemalda is so great to work with, I agree! They care SO much about each and every book and the authors. It is truly great to be here.

Comment on On Editing … A Door Called Sally. by Michelle Davidson Argyle

Michelle Davidson Argyle — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 04:46:07 +0000

Who knows all the parts of a sword? Me, me, me! Hahah, that would be because of my husband, the fight choreographer. We literally have an armory here in our home. Anyway, great post! I think editing can be a really great experience with the right people involved. The editors at Rhemalda are open and willing to listen, and that makes a huge difference. It also helps when the author is open, as well. The point is to get a great book out there, clean and polished and readable. The editors make that all work, and I’m so grateful!

Comment on ~The WALL~ by Michelle Davidson Argyle

Michelle Davidson Argyle — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 04:40:03 +0000

I don’t think I’ll be able to write press releases super well, but I’ll at least try. I don’t like the gimmicky-sounding ones. They just aren’t my style at all, so it will be difficult to figure out what works for me and my books. As far as reviews go, some people use the rating system on Goodreads to sort books according to how much they want to read them. There are no rules that state what the stars have to be used for, so I totally don’t let that bother me anymore. I don’t think everyone uses them for the same purpose, and it’s all subjective anyway. My life has greatly improved since I stopped reading and looking at reviews. I don’t feel they are for me. Everyone is different, though.

I wish you the best of luck on your press releases!

Comment on ‘Arty Time! by Michelle Davidson Argyle

Michelle Davidson Argyle — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 04:34:45 +0000

Your book sounds fascinating! I love the ideas you’ve expressed here about it, and I’m excited to see the cover as well. The art team is really great to work with. You have a lot to look forward to!

Comment on No Good Deed Goes Unpunished in the Fire Service by Michelle Davidson Argyle

Michelle Davidson Argyle — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 04:16:01 +0000

I have a terrible memory, but I remember reading awhile ago that you said nobody at your work would even read your books…so this goes to show they are at least reading your work! So awesome.

Comment on ~Setting The Record Straight~ by Michelle Davidson Argyle

Michelle Davidson Argyle — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 04:12:30 +0000

Thank you for this post, Candace! Well-said. We are definitely a family here, and I’m happy to be a part of this experience.

Comment on It’s about time by Michelle Davidson Argyle

Michelle Davidson Argyle — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 04:09:16 +0000

I have heard such good things about your book! Can’t wait to get a copy. I just finished edits on THE BREAKAWAY with Diane. She is a wonderful editor, and a delight to work with. I’m happy this all turned out well for you!

Comment on Part One, “The Inspiration” by Michelle Davidson Argyle

Michelle Davidson Argyle — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 04:05:32 +0000

How wonderful that you keep all those tings in a journal! I have a terrible memory, so you’d think I’d keep a consistent journal, but I don’t. As far as book ideas go, I really don’t get many. I let a lot of them pass me by because there’s no way I could follow all of them through. Since I am easily overwhelmed, I like to let them flutter by and then wait for the great ones to come fluttering back and stick. One always does, and that’s what becomes my next book. Sometimes it takes awhile, but so far it’s always happened. Can’t wait for the second part!

Comment on My New eReader and Its Evil, Twisted, Conniving Hold on My Heart by Michelle Davidson Argyle

Michelle Davidson Argyle — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 04:00:41 +0000

There are things I love and things I hate about e-readers. I have a Kindle, but I find what I use it for most is to read fellow writer’s unpublished manuscripts. It’s REALLY helpful for that kind of thing.

Comment on Past Perfect by Michelle Davidson Argyle

Michelle Davidson Argyle — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 03:57:02 +0000

Sticking in the 1920′s sounds like a plan to me! For my next full-length novel, I go even farther back that that, and I’m scared. I’m scared of all the research and that I’m going to get something wrong. I think it will be fun, though, and like you say, no cell phones! It’s kind of a huge relief!

Comment on Frenzied Mob of Kindle Readers Burn Down Library–Megan Fox Uninjured by Michelle Davidson Argyle

Michelle Davidson Argyle — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 03:53:08 +0000

That IS a great price for The Bone Sword! I really enjoyed that book. I also really love my Kindle. I use it for editing. A lot. And for reading unpublished manuscripts. It’s very helpful. I do buy some books on it, but I also still buy paper books. Still, I have limited budget and space, so it’s nice to put some stuff on the Kindle. Glad you love yours!

Comment on The Rookie Report: Firsts by Michelle Davidson Argyle

Michelle Davidson Argyle — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 03:49:20 +0000

You nailed that! It’s a crazy roller coaster, that’s for sure, and it just gets more and more fun, let me tell you. I thought things would get easier with each book, but so far it has been just as nerve-wracking. Maybe on other levels, but still.

By the way, I am so happy you are here.

Comment on Layering by Michelle Davidson Argyle

Michelle Davidson Argyle — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 03:43:12 +0000

I’m so sorry it has taken me forever to come over here and read your post. It’s beautiful! I love how you describe this, and I’m thinking it is just as hard to change some things in a draft as it is to scrub something out in a watercolor. Sometimes, I imagine, you just have to start completely over. I had to do that with MONARCH. Thanks for sharing this!

Comment on The LOOK by Michelle Davidson Argyle

Michelle Davidson Argyle — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 03:38:30 +0000

Aww, this is sweet, and I love the picture! We have certain looks that are passed down in our families. I like the “You are SO awesome” ones best.

Comment on Expect Unusual Excitements. by Michelle Davidson Argyle

Michelle Davidson Argyle — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 03:34:07 +0000

That is seriously awesome! Really, how amazing is that? I’ll bet that would make Eve smile too.

Comment on ~The WALL~ by robynchance

robynchance — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 01:51:32 +0000

Maybe because the press releases are about you and your work, rather than a character and a plot. Promoting our successes can be very difficult, and I am not surprised you found a wall blocking your way. Perhaps slightly removing yourself from the process might help. For example, think of yourself as a character and then give her the “uumph” she needs to embrace her accomplishments and promote her successes. I don’t know…it might help. I am running into the same wall, and it is always easier to give advice than to take it.

Comment on ~The WALL~ by Candace Bowen Early

Candace Bowen Early — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 15:00:29 +0000

Thanks for taking another chance, Cas.

Actually, I am lucky enough to have a rock I can lean on. My great friend and neighbor is not only a sounding board, he proofs my blogs and talks me off the ledge when I’m feeling overwhelmed. I’m managing to muddle my way through. Emmaline gave me a few topics and I ran with them. For some reason, I find that so much easier when it comes to press releases than coming up with ideas of my own. I guess I am just not a very good self-promoter~lol.

As always, thank you for your insightful input. It always helps!

Comment on On Editing … A Door Called Sally. by Cas Peace

Cas Peace — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 11:15:43 +0000

Absolutely, Kate! I’ve had to do both with my writing clients and I definitely prefer being the fiction editor. Novel-reading ought to be about learning just as much as simply enjoying a book. Stories that evoke conversations are the best!

Comment on My favorite Part by Candace Bowen Early

Candace Bowen Early — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 14:26:11 +0000

I couldn’t agree with your sentiments more, Doug. I had a bounce in my step for a week when I received a card in the mail from a lady who enjoyed my first novel. For me, hearing positive feedback makes all the long hours of writing and editing worthwhile. How lucky we are to have such an amazing publisher who understands how we feel.

Comment on My favorite Part by Cas Peace

Cas Peace — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 10:35:23 +0000

I’m with you, Doug, in that the most important aspect of writing, for me, is pleasing readers. Yes, the money success would bring would be lovely, but it’s not my goal or desire. What I yearn to see is people getting the same feelings, the same intense pleasure and involvement out of my novels that I had while writing them. Receiving emails that tell you how much a complete stranger enjoyed your book is the absolute pinnacle of writing for me.
And I totally agree with you about Rhemalda. None of this would be possible without them, we are so fortunate to have found them and to belong to this beautiful family of talented people!
I’m looking forward to reading Tamed and will leave you a review once I’m done.
xx

Comment on On Editing … A Door Called Sally. by Cas Peace

Cas Peace — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 10:27:32 +0000

Oh yes, Candace. it really is wonderful how many castles, both ruined and still lived-in, that there are in Britain. Fantastic for writers of historical novels – you can actually touch, smell, hear and see what living in such a place would be like. My own little cottage is Victorian, but I would fill it with medieval-style furniture if I could. (The real thing, which you can still get, is eye-wateringly expensive!)
xx

Comment on On Editing … A Door Called Sally. by Cas Peace

Cas Peace — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 10:21:40 +0000

Aww, Doug, you can’t make a statement like that and then leave us hanging! Maybe we authors ought to collaborate on a “Mistakes I’ve Made” blog. I have a HUGE one I could share concerning the submission process!

Comment on On Editing … A Door Called Sally. by Candace Bowen Early

Candace Bowen Early — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 02:14:23 +0000

First I have to say how absolutely cool I find it that you can visit castles whenever you want to. That being said, I couldn’t agree with you more. In A Knight of Silence, I had to omit numerous medieval words I would have rather left in the book. However, after realizing that the average reader is most likely not a castle and medieval era fanatic like I am, I accepted it as having to be done. For me, publishing is a learn as you go process. I still keep my fingers crossed that my manuscript is not glowing red when I open it, however.

Wonderful post, Cas.

Comment on On Editing … A Door Called Sally. by Kate Fall

Kate Fall — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 02:11:26 +0000

Your post really shows the difference between a proofreader and a fiction editor, too. The proofreader would look up sally port on Google and keep going. The fiction editor wants readers to love your book and wants to open up conversations with you about your book.

Comment on Author of TAMED on NBC4 Morning Show by Douglas R Brown

Douglas R Brown — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 00:35:22 +0000

Thanks, Annie.

Comment on On Editing … A Door Called Sally. by Douglas R Brown

Douglas R Brown — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 00:34:25 +0000

The red nearly kills me every time but I am so thankful and happy afterwards. You should hear some of the mistakes I’ve missed. A big one recently, huh, Rhett?

Comment on ~The WALL~ by Cas Peace

Cas Peace — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 14:02:50 +0000

Candace, I tried to leave you a comment shortly after you posted this, but something went wrong and my reply got disappeared. I’d forgotten to copy it before hitting “submit”, so I lost the whole thing. Now I’m trying again!
I sympathize with your press release problem – it’s one I’m also going to face. I’m going to try enlisting the help of my husband, who has much better ideas when it comes to promotion than I do. He is not afraid to blow his wife’s trumpet, so that should make things easier for me.
Do you not have someone who can help you like this? There’s no rules that say the releases have to be written exclusively by you!

Comment on Author of TAMED on NBC4 Morning Show by Annie Laurie Cechini

Annie Laurie Cechini — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 19:19:51 +0000

So cool! Way to go!

Comment on ~The WALL~ by Candace Bowen Early

Candace Bowen Early — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 03:48:21 +0000

At least you gave a thought to it, Tiffany. I never gave press releases a thought because I never imagined they would apply to me. I am extremely happy that they do, but I’m still having trouble with them~lol. Thanks for taking the time to comment.

Comment on ~The WALL~ by Tiffany

Tiffany — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 19:59:43 +0000

I know what you mean in regards to fear about press releases. I actually like promotion. I’m somehow able to jump between writing, editing, reviewing, and promoting, but the idea of putting together press releases gives me quite the headache. Though it is, perhaps, because I haven’t done the proper research for a press release.

Comment on ~Setting The Record Straight~ by T. J. Robinson

T. J. Robinson — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 05:39:24 +0000

Well said Candace! It still puzzles me how we as writers tend to want to discredit everyone but ourselves (including me). Perhaps it’s the way of the industry, but I wish we could all remember that there is no one-size-fits-all in writing, and we should respect and appreciate the work of others, even if it is not something that fits our personal tastes.

Comment on ~ON BEHALF OF THE KING~ by ~The WALL~ | Rhemalda Publishing

~The WALL~ | Rhemalda Publishing — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 17:09:12 +0000

[...] you read my blog, “On Behalf of the King,” you know that I come up blank when it comes to writing reviews. I just do not feel confident [...]

Comment on No Good Deed Goes Unpunished in the Fire Service by Konstanz Silverbow

Konstanz Silverbow — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 03:56:31 +0000

That’s awesome! I don’t think I have laughed that hard in months. Thanks so much for the laughs! (Can’t wait to read the book!)

Comment on The Rookie Report: Firsts by Annie Laurie Cechini

Annie Laurie Cechini — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 16:33:07 +0000

Hehe, that is a great way to think about it! I can handle the Mater Horn (just not California Screamin’. NEVER. AGAIN.)

Comment on The Rookie Report: Firsts by Annie Laurie Cechini

Annie Laurie Cechini — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 16:30:53 +0000

Hehehe, I love that movie. Specifically that part of that movie, because so often we get our dreams and then feel a bit like that. It’s alright though, I have a good support network for the despicable human being days.

Comment on ‘Arty Time! by Cas Peace

Cas Peace — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 13:23:15 +0000

Steve, I could hear the tone of your voice getting higher and higher and more excited as your post went on! The *excited squealing* at the end was almost redundant, you conveyed it so well.
I completely agree with you about judging books by covers – I think every reader does it, intentionally or not. After all, whether a print book or an ebook, the cover picture is always the first thing we see. Being primarily visual animals, it is instinctive for us to be attracted by pleasing covers, or turned away by what we perceive as unattractive ones. So your cover is a vital component of your book.
As someone who is very familiar with Shifter – and a HUGE fan – I too will be very excited to see what the Rhemalda art team come up with. I also hope you manage to have an idea or two incorporated into it, although judging by your post, your primary school teachers may have been right…

Comment on ~Setting The Record Straight~ by Candace Bowen Early

Candace Bowen Early — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 17:35:11 +0000

I couldn’t agree more. Thanks for taking the time to comment.

Comment on No Good Deed Goes Unpunished in the Fire Service by jbchicoine

jbchicoine — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 15:48:05 +0000

Well, I suppose you could use this to your advantage. Next time someone starts razzing you, Just say “Watch it Dude, you just might end up in my next novel!” Who’s to say how you might cast him?! Oh, the possibilities!

Comment on ~Setting The Record Straight~ by jbchicoine

jbchicoine — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 15:38:27 +0000

And how many authors of big publishing houses are offered the privilege of writing articles for their publishers website or blog (especially if they are new or mid-list)? Any writer/author who has done their research knows that whether they sign with the big 6 or a small press, much of the marketing falls in the authors lap. Personally, I like that–more control over my own writing career.
At least at Rhemalda, we have personal contact and support from our team!