Merry Christmas! As usual, I like to have some sort of offer around the holiday as a gift to my readers. This time it's a whole new book. As you know, this year has been a pretty rough one, but I realized this week that City of Light is the THIRD full-length novel I've released in 2015!
About the book: The Demon wants Aisilyn for his bride, and he’s sending his Dark Warrior
to get her. Her sister, Gennavieve, isn’t about to let that happen. She
convinces the Warrior that she is the maiden he’s come for, and
willingly leaves the sacred City of Light with him to spare Aisilyn from
a fate worse than death.
What Gennavieve never considered is what she would do if she fell in love with the servant of darkness.
My gift to you is that I'm having a preorder sale. Right now, and through December 23, City of Light is only $1.99! Once it goes live Christmas Eve the price will go up.
Currently, the only live links I have are for AMAZON and iTUNES. Stay close, though, because I'll be updating this post as the other channels go live. (like now) KOBO is live! And NOOK.
I heard that there's a new space movie out today, so probably some people will be doing that and not worried about e-book shopping. ;) That's cool. The sale is through Wednesday, so you have time.
Merry Christmas, my friends!
Showing posts with label ebooks. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ebooks. Show all posts
Friday, December 18, 2015
Tuesday, December 8, 2015
Books Galore!
I'm on kind of a writer high since getting my edits back for City of Light yesterday. You know how it is, your editor didn't mean to but read it all in one sitting because she couldn't put it down. Yeah, that. :)
You've likely noticed, but I did some work on the website/blog over the weekend as well--just housekeeping things like editing links and updating information. And while I get City of Light up for sale (likely before Christmas), I just wanted to remind you of all the other books I've got out there.
Don't forget you can really capture the Christmas spirit with the audio version of Twelve Days, available through AUDIBLE or on AMAZON. It's also available through the iTunes store, if that's your preference.
I do still have some print copies of my books left, in case you are wanting to gift autographed copies of Birthright or any of my other books. The closer we get to Christmas, of course, the harder it is to get books mailed in time to make it under the tree. Pretty soon, this offer will only be available local contacts. Of course, you can still pick up the print versions online, if the signed copy isn't a priority.
I've put all the purchase links on the right side of the blog, so all you have to do is click your preferred link.
And, naturally, you can pick up e-book versions of my books in case you have an e-reader to fill for a gift for someone on your list. They're all available through iTunes as well in the iBook store. I plan to have the e-version of City of Light live before Christmas, for that last minute gift idea. Of course, Ghost Bride and Tea for Two are always free. (Amazon is still having issues making Tea for Two free, but it's free on all other formats)
Here's wishing you a very merry and safe holiday season!
You've likely noticed, but I did some work on the website/blog over the weekend as well--just housekeeping things like editing links and updating information. And while I get City of Light up for sale (likely before Christmas), I just wanted to remind you of all the other books I've got out there.
Don't forget you can really capture the Christmas spirit with the audio version of Twelve Days, available through AUDIBLE or on AMAZON. It's also available through the iTunes store, if that's your preference.
I do still have some print copies of my books left, in case you are wanting to gift autographed copies of Birthright or any of my other books. The closer we get to Christmas, of course, the harder it is to get books mailed in time to make it under the tree. Pretty soon, this offer will only be available local contacts. Of course, you can still pick up the print versions online, if the signed copy isn't a priority.
I've put all the purchase links on the right side of the blog, so all you have to do is click your preferred link.
And, naturally, you can pick up e-book versions of my books in case you have an e-reader to fill for a gift for someone on your list. They're all available through iTunes as well in the iBook store. I plan to have the e-version of City of Light live before Christmas, for that last minute gift idea. Of course, Ghost Bride and Tea for Two are always free. (Amazon is still having issues making Tea for Two free, but it's free on all other formats)
Here's wishing you a very merry and safe holiday season!
Friday, August 21, 2015
Changes
First let's get the housekeeping out of the way. Yes, I'm still down with my concussion. No, I shouldn't be on the computer--which is why I'm making this short. Seriously, 3 weeks is a long time to be unable to work, drive, walk normally, exercise, or pretty much anything else.
Okay, done whining.
You're going to notice there are a couple of new tabs on my website. One is Audiobooks and the other is the first chapter of Birthright, which is still coming in print and e-book. Several things have been sidetracked by the chaos that my life has become. But stuff is still happening.
Good stuff.
Recently, I made a discovery that totally blew me away. Do you remember my micro-story, Ghost Bride?
Deirdra made me this fantastic cover and you can read the book in roughly ten minutes? Remember that? I had it published in 2011, and shortly thereafter made it free because it's such a short, short story. I put it up on Amazon, Smashwords, and Nook (Barnes and Noble).
Life progressed and I published more books and stories and realized all my income was coming from Amazon, so I became an Amazon girl. I focused on my projects there, stopped publishing to Nook or Smashwords, took advantage of their KDP program, all that jazz.
About three days ago, I started poking around on my Smashwords account because they owe me just under $10--which is their limit for sending a payment. So I looked at my sales and payment reports and was shocked by the numbers I saw.
Mind you, these numbers are for Ghost Bride, which is FREE, so we're not talking income. But I'll get to that in a minute. So we're just talking downloads, not purchases.
2011: (1344--Apple, 1774--B&N, 96--Sony) = 3,214. Averaging 268 per month.
2012: (3528--Apple, 3045--B&N, 138--Sony) = 6,711. Averaging 560 per month.
2013: (4671--Apple, 535--B&N, 48--Sony) = 5,254. Averaging 438 per month.
2014: (1834--Apple, 228--B&N, 9--various) = 2,071. Averaging 173 per month.
Additionally, Ghost Bride on iTunes has 116 customer reviews with an average of 3.5 stars. It has 44 reviews on B&N with an average 3.0 stars. Conversely, it's Amazon rating is 3.5 stars with 11 reviews. You can take all my reviews for all my other books COMBINED and not have 116.
Now, I realize it's my fault for not figuring this out sooner. If I had known my story was getting so much attention in 2012 and 2013 I'd have been promoting my other books very heavily on iTunes. But I didn't. Now isn't the time to cry over spilled milk, and I'm not going to do it. What I am going to do is broaden my vision. Concentrate less on Amazon and keep my other fires stoked and burning as well rather than utterly ignoring them.
I'm also going to do something that a lot of authors don't agree with. I haven't weighed in because I didn't think I had any sway one way or the other. I know that you know that e-books are priced between free and $14, depending on the book, the publisher, and other factors. And I in no way want you to think that I'm devaluing the work--the blood, sweat, tears, sleepless nights, aggravation, and general "why am I even doing this to myself?"--that ALL authors experience. Because I'm not.
My goal has always been to get my books into as many readers' hands as possible. I want to help someone through a rough day, give them something to smile about, give them an escape from their pain. I want to share hope, and share goodness.
I can't do that if nobody is buying my books.
On the flip side of that, I have to eat. And e-books are a lot of work. You're still going to find that my books go through professional edits and formatting, have professional covers, and are a good quality product.
The only thing that's changing is the price.
If you're someone who thinks you can't get a decent e-book for less than $6 or $7 I intend to prove you wrong. This is my business, my company, and my work. I just ran around the internet changing all the prices of my e-books. You can find Tea for Two permafree through Smashwords. (and Amazon, just as soon as they price match) My novels are $1.99. And that's not a sale price. I likely won't put any of my e-books up for more than $3.99. **this applies only to the self published books where I control pricing** Ever. Period. Print books are different. If you want one you can put on your shelf and brag about, then you'll pay print book prices.
I realize there are going to be those of you who think I'm wrong. Who think I'm nuts. Please be gentle. Each of us is going through our own journey, and this is what feels right to me. I've been fighting it a long time, wanting to price my works competitively and support the efforts of my fellow authors. But now it's time to be true to me. My stories have positive messages. My stories are good, quality work. And not everyone has $9.99 to spend on a book they can't even hold in their hands.
But everyone should be able to read.
Okay, done whining.
You're going to notice there are a couple of new tabs on my website. One is Audiobooks and the other is the first chapter of Birthright, which is still coming in print and e-book. Several things have been sidetracked by the chaos that my life has become. But stuff is still happening.
Good stuff.
Recently, I made a discovery that totally blew me away. Do you remember my micro-story, Ghost Bride?
Deirdra made me this fantastic cover and you can read the book in roughly ten minutes? Remember that? I had it published in 2011, and shortly thereafter made it free because it's such a short, short story. I put it up on Amazon, Smashwords, and Nook (Barnes and Noble).
Life progressed and I published more books and stories and realized all my income was coming from Amazon, so I became an Amazon girl. I focused on my projects there, stopped publishing to Nook or Smashwords, took advantage of their KDP program, all that jazz.
About three days ago, I started poking around on my Smashwords account because they owe me just under $10--which is their limit for sending a payment. So I looked at my sales and payment reports and was shocked by the numbers I saw.
Mind you, these numbers are for Ghost Bride, which is FREE, so we're not talking income. But I'll get to that in a minute. So we're just talking downloads, not purchases.
2011: (1344--Apple, 1774--B&N, 96--Sony) = 3,214. Averaging 268 per month.
2012: (3528--Apple, 3045--B&N, 138--Sony) = 6,711. Averaging 560 per month.
2013: (4671--Apple, 535--B&N, 48--Sony) = 5,254. Averaging 438 per month.
2014: (1834--Apple, 228--B&N, 9--various) = 2,071. Averaging 173 per month.
Additionally, Ghost Bride on iTunes has 116 customer reviews with an average of 3.5 stars. It has 44 reviews on B&N with an average 3.0 stars. Conversely, it's Amazon rating is 3.5 stars with 11 reviews. You can take all my reviews for all my other books COMBINED and not have 116.
Now, I realize it's my fault for not figuring this out sooner. If I had known my story was getting so much attention in 2012 and 2013 I'd have been promoting my other books very heavily on iTunes. But I didn't. Now isn't the time to cry over spilled milk, and I'm not going to do it. What I am going to do is broaden my vision. Concentrate less on Amazon and keep my other fires stoked and burning as well rather than utterly ignoring them.
I'm also going to do something that a lot of authors don't agree with. I haven't weighed in because I didn't think I had any sway one way or the other. I know that you know that e-books are priced between free and $14, depending on the book, the publisher, and other factors. And I in no way want you to think that I'm devaluing the work--the blood, sweat, tears, sleepless nights, aggravation, and general "why am I even doing this to myself?"--that ALL authors experience. Because I'm not.
My goal has always been to get my books into as many readers' hands as possible. I want to help someone through a rough day, give them something to smile about, give them an escape from their pain. I want to share hope, and share goodness.
I can't do that if nobody is buying my books.
On the flip side of that, I have to eat. And e-books are a lot of work. You're still going to find that my books go through professional edits and formatting, have professional covers, and are a good quality product.
The only thing that's changing is the price.
If you're someone who thinks you can't get a decent e-book for less than $6 or $7 I intend to prove you wrong. This is my business, my company, and my work. I just ran around the internet changing all the prices of my e-books. You can find Tea for Two permafree through Smashwords. (and Amazon, just as soon as they price match) My novels are $1.99. And that's not a sale price. I likely won't put any of my e-books up for more than $3.99. **this applies only to the self published books where I control pricing** Ever. Period. Print books are different. If you want one you can put on your shelf and brag about, then you'll pay print book prices.
I realize there are going to be those of you who think I'm wrong. Who think I'm nuts. Please be gentle. Each of us is going through our own journey, and this is what feels right to me. I've been fighting it a long time, wanting to price my works competitively and support the efforts of my fellow authors. But now it's time to be true to me. My stories have positive messages. My stories are good, quality work. And not everyone has $9.99 to spend on a book they can't even hold in their hands.
But everyone should be able to read.
Labels:
awesome,
book promotion,
ebooks,
ghost bride,
pricing
Wednesday, June 3, 2015
Be a Scout
Kindle Scout is reader-powered publishing for new,
never-before-published books. It’s a place where readers help decide if a
book gets published.
That's right--readers help decide.
Birthright is a dystopian YA fantasy, currently up for nominations in the Kindle Scout program.
About Birthright:
The unwanted daughter of a king who must have sons, Verity fights against her father’s betrayal the only way she can—by fleeing the relative safety of her past and taking her chances in the unknown, untamed wilderness. Verity must learn who she can trust—and who wants her dead.
Read more and nominate Birthright for publication through Kindle Press. Voting is open June 3 through July 3rd.
Check out Birthright here!
The best part, for readers, is if you nominate the book and it wins--you get a free copy downloaded to your Kindle upon publication.
That's right--readers help decide.
Birthright is a dystopian YA fantasy, currently up for nominations in the Kindle Scout program.
About Birthright:
The unwanted daughter of a king who must have sons, Verity fights against her father’s betrayal the only way she can—by fleeing the relative safety of her past and taking her chances in the unknown, untamed wilderness. Verity must learn who she can trust—and who wants her dead.
Read more and nominate Birthright for publication through Kindle Press. Voting is open June 3 through July 3rd.
Check out Birthright here!
The best part, for readers, is if you nominate the book and it wins--you get a free copy downloaded to your Kindle upon publication.
Labels:
Birthright,
cheri chesley,
ebooks,
new release
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Because Words are Powerful
Ugh. I'm coming down with something and right now would rather be curled up in my bed than doing anything.
But I am here. Why?
Because I believe in my dream. Because words are powerful and outlive their writers.
Because I have to be here. It's something that resonates so deeply inside of me I can't properly name it.
And because I want to give you an update on what I'm doing.
The Tyrant King is flying off shelves (mine, at least--lol). I've ordered 38 copies so far and mailed away 37. I have another order of 10 wending my way soon, but until then this one lone copy sits with The Wild Queen and The Peasant Queen waiting for a reader. :) It's pretty cool.
I'm also hearing great things from readers. One said she'd have read it in a day if she hadn't had to go to school. Another liked it better than the first. Always things a writer loves to hear.
I had decided to focus some time editing my creepy Halloween story when I got blindsided by a fun sci fi YA adventure. Here's my "elevator pitch"
Shape-shifting alien Kelle, long believed to be the last of her kind, is about to face her toughest assignment yet--an American high school on a tiny little planet called Earth.
Now, you know that any creature believed to be the last of their kind is absolutely not--I'm not giving any spoilers away here, since Kelle learns that in the first two pages. The funny thing is (and I'm not trying to be punny here) that as I plot out this story a LOT of humor is coming out. Right now it's shaping up to be a funny and dangerous story, set on Earth but liberally sprinkled with sci-fi elements. And, right now, even as sick as I feel I want to work on it.
I think readers will like Kelle. She's a calm sort of person who's cool under pressure and--though she can choose any form in the galaxy--her preferred shape is that of a shorter humanoid, powerfully built rather than skinny, with dark curly hair and dark eyes.
And I'm going to take her completely out of her element and make her find her place in high school--as a spy.
Even I'm getting excited at how fun it sounds. :)
But I am here. Why?
Because I believe in my dream. Because words are powerful and outlive their writers.
Because I have to be here. It's something that resonates so deeply inside of me I can't properly name it.
And because I want to give you an update on what I'm doing.
The Tyrant King is flying off shelves (mine, at least--lol). I've ordered 38 copies so far and mailed away 37. I have another order of 10 wending my way soon, but until then this one lone copy sits with The Wild Queen and The Peasant Queen waiting for a reader. :) It's pretty cool.
I'm also hearing great things from readers. One said she'd have read it in a day if she hadn't had to go to school. Another liked it better than the first. Always things a writer loves to hear.
I had decided to focus some time editing my creepy Halloween story when I got blindsided by a fun sci fi YA adventure. Here's my "elevator pitch"
Shape-shifting alien Kelle, long believed to be the last of her kind, is about to face her toughest assignment yet--an American high school on a tiny little planet called Earth.
Now, you know that any creature believed to be the last of their kind is absolutely not--I'm not giving any spoilers away here, since Kelle learns that in the first two pages. The funny thing is (and I'm not trying to be punny here) that as I plot out this story a LOT of humor is coming out. Right now it's shaping up to be a funny and dangerous story, set on Earth but liberally sprinkled with sci-fi elements. And, right now, even as sick as I feel I want to work on it.
I think readers will like Kelle. She's a calm sort of person who's cool under pressure and--though she can choose any form in the galaxy--her preferred shape is that of a shorter humanoid, powerfully built rather than skinny, with dark curly hair and dark eyes.
And I'm going to take her completely out of her element and make her find her place in high school--as a spy.
Even I'm getting excited at how fun it sounds. :)
Labels:
ebooks,
great news,
new idea,
The Tyrant King
Monday, July 23, 2012
So I'm a Day Early...
...but I couldn't wait to share the news.
The Tyrant King is an ebook!
Click this link if you have a KINDLE.
Click this link if you have a NOOK.
Click this link if you have another e-reader, or simply prefer SMASHWORDS formats.
If you're holding out for a print copy, rest assured I have the typeset file on my computer all ready for me to review. I expect to have print books available online before the end of the month, and IN MY POSSESSION by the first week of August.
Yeah, I'm a bit excited. :)
The Tyrant King is an ebook!
Click this link if you have a KINDLE.
Click this link if you have a NOOK.
Click this link if you have another e-reader, or simply prefer SMASHWORDS formats.
If you're holding out for a print copy, rest assured I have the typeset file on my computer all ready for me to review. I expect to have print books available online before the end of the month, and IN MY POSSESSION by the first week of August.
Yeah, I'm a bit excited. :)
Labels:
ebooks,
great news,
self publishing,
The Tyrant King
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Launch Fail
Today was the day I planned to announce the arrival of my newest short story--just in time for Valentine's Day--Tea for Two. It's a cute, Victorian romance full of mystery, lies, and intrigue. You know, just like a romance should be. :)
Launch fail.
In a world of self-imposed deadlines, this one's a fail. I have this fantastic cover, and a story I've loved since the first time I wrote it over ten years ago. But, as I edited and changed and cleaned and polished this fun story, I realized the zest was gone. The zeal. The interest. And if I couldn't feel the love, how could I write a good romance? It would be bland, boring, without spark. DULL.
After much soul searching and good kick in the pants from my husband, I dropped it. It does no good to work on a project I'm not passionate about, because the reader can tell.
Please don't think I'm just sitting around, though. I want let you know I've still got two irons in the fire, and they're heating up nicely. One is the PRINT version of my book, The Wild Queen, which will soon be available for sale. The other is a brand spanking new contemporary YA called Intersect. It's so new, I'm still working on the first chapter. But I think that's what I needed. I've been editing so much over the last year or so that I just needed to start something fresh. Already I can tell it's going to be amazing. :)
Launch fail.
In a world of self-imposed deadlines, this one's a fail. I have this fantastic cover, and a story I've loved since the first time I wrote it over ten years ago. But, as I edited and changed and cleaned and polished this fun story, I realized the zest was gone. The zeal. The interest. And if I couldn't feel the love, how could I write a good romance? It would be bland, boring, without spark. DULL.
After much soul searching and good kick in the pants from my husband, I dropped it. It does no good to work on a project I'm not passionate about, because the reader can tell.
Please don't think I'm just sitting around, though. I want let you know I've still got two irons in the fire, and they're heating up nicely. One is the PRINT version of my book, The Wild Queen, which will soon be available for sale. The other is a brand spanking new contemporary YA called Intersect. It's so new, I'm still working on the first chapter. But I think that's what I needed. I've been editing so much over the last year or so that I just needed to start something fresh. Already I can tell it's going to be amazing. :)
Labels:
ebooks,
Intersect,
new idea,
print novels,
Tea for Two,
The Wild Queen
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
My Review: Transcendent by various authors
Repeat after me: You WANT to be part of this blog tour. Go enter to win fun prizes. Lots of prizes. Go, NOW!
Why are you still here? Oh, you're back. Ok.
Transcendent is a fun, fun collection of short stories by various authors, some of which you may have heard of. Others, you will.
The first story starts out with a hilarious twist on an old tale, and it just gets better from there.
Oh, and don't forget to check out the other participating blogs:
If paranormal is your thing, or if you're wanting to try something new, you won't be disappointed. You can click on over to GOODREADS and see what people are saying about it. Then, you can head over to AMAZON to pick up the e-book, or wait for the paperback coming SOON!
Click HERE to show these fun authors some Facebook love.
And happy reading. :)
Labels:
blog tour,
contests,
ebooks,
Transcendent,
Wendy Swore
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
For My Next Trick
"Hey, Rocky! Watch me pull a rabbit out of my hat."
"Again?!"
I have no idea where Rocky and Bullwinkle came from this morning. There's really no point in asking. Let's just hope it's not going to be a Rocky and Bullwinkle kind of day.
Get moose and squirrel!
K, I think I'm done.
As I tie up the edits for The Tyrant King, I find myself looking ahead to those days when I wait to hear back from my betas and then the days (and weeks) while I wait to hear from my editor. What should I work on next? The obvious answer is The Lost Princess. She's actually my November project this year. What do do in October?
I think it's time for another e-book, myself.
The Price of Love, tentative release HALLOWEEN. Set in beautiful Scotland in an ancient manor house, this is one love story gone wrong that will send shivers up your spine.
Alita is thrilled to travel to Scotland to meet her future in-laws and plan the final details of her wedding. That is, until she meets her fiance's mother. Then Alita starts having strange dreams, dreams of dying a horrible death--dreams that spur her to dig into an ages-old mystery, and in the process learn not everyone is as they seem.
Yeah, you're right. I need to work on that synopsis. It's early, mind, and I haven't had a lot of sleep. :P
Look for more updates on The Price of Love in the coming weeks.
"Again?!"
I have no idea where Rocky and Bullwinkle came from this morning. There's really no point in asking. Let's just hope it's not going to be a Rocky and Bullwinkle kind of day.
Get moose and squirrel!
K, I think I'm done.
As I tie up the edits for The Tyrant King, I find myself looking ahead to those days when I wait to hear back from my betas and then the days (and weeks) while I wait to hear from my editor. What should I work on next? The obvious answer is The Lost Princess. She's actually my November project this year. What do do in October?
I think it's time for another e-book, myself.
The Price of Love, tentative release HALLOWEEN. Set in beautiful Scotland in an ancient manor house, this is one love story gone wrong that will send shivers up your spine.
Alita is thrilled to travel to Scotland to meet her future in-laws and plan the final details of her wedding. That is, until she meets her fiance's mother. Then Alita starts having strange dreams, dreams of dying a horrible death--dreams that spur her to dig into an ages-old mystery, and in the process learn not everyone is as they seem.
Yeah, you're right. I need to work on that synopsis. It's early, mind, and I haven't had a lot of sleep. :P
Look for more updates on The Price of Love in the coming weeks.
Labels:
ebooks,
editing,
The Price of Love,
The Tyrant King
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
A Story on Layering
Last week, Rebecca had to have port surgery. If you've been keeping up with her BLOG, you'll know that she's been having trouble with the chemo and they had to do something other than the IV method. This is one BRAVE lady, people. She hates all the medical stuff, hates needles, hates hospitals, etc--and has really come through it all amazingly well. Also, Monday (July 4) her youngest had his 4th birthday. He made sure we understood that all the fireworks and parties were for him. :) What a cutie!
Now I have just the teensiest request for me. Here's where the layers come in.
The Wild Queen, my e-book, is the story of a great, epic romance--but it is not a romance novel. Unfortunately, in categorizing the story for sale, someone *cough* me *cough* listed romance as one of the search words. This has led to at least one misunderstanding. A kind reader picked it up on amazon.com expecting a romance, and was sorely disappointed.
Please understand I appreciate feedback, even the not-so-nice kind, because it gives me a chance to analyze my writing, learn and grow. I also understand a review is simply someone's opinion, and I don't intend to try to please everyone. This reader took the story at face value and didn't like what they saw. Because of that, they jumped to a couple of erroneous conclusions, and really socked it to my non-romance romance novel. I've purposely layered this story, making it more complex than it would otherwise appear. I'm also confident I didn't over-complicate the plot because I've had several readers tell me what they think was really going on--and they are right.
So what's my problem? Simply this: the ONLY review the book has on amazon.com is a 1 star review, which I feel does the book--and my efforts to raise money for my friend's medical expenses--a disservice. My request? If you've read the book, please go to the product page on AMAZON and leave your review. I don't want anyone to diss this person's review or sink to name calling, because that's not what this is about. All I ask is that there be other opinions on there, too.
Thanks!
Now I have just the teensiest request for me. Here's where the layers come in.
The Wild Queen, my e-book, is the story of a great, epic romance--but it is not a romance novel. Unfortunately, in categorizing the story for sale, someone *cough* me *cough* listed romance as one of the search words. This has led to at least one misunderstanding. A kind reader picked it up on amazon.com expecting a romance, and was sorely disappointed.
Please understand I appreciate feedback, even the not-so-nice kind, because it gives me a chance to analyze my writing, learn and grow. I also understand a review is simply someone's opinion, and I don't intend to try to please everyone. This reader took the story at face value and didn't like what they saw. Because of that, they jumped to a couple of erroneous conclusions, and really socked it to my non-romance romance novel. I've purposely layered this story, making it more complex than it would otherwise appear. I'm also confident I didn't over-complicate the plot because I've had several readers tell me what they think was really going on--and they are right.
So what's my problem? Simply this: the ONLY review the book has on amazon.com is a 1 star review, which I feel does the book--and my efforts to raise money for my friend's medical expenses--a disservice. My request? If you've read the book, please go to the product page on AMAZON and leave your review. I don't want anyone to diss this person's review or sink to name calling, because that's not what this is about. All I ask is that there be other opinions on there, too.
Thanks!
Labels:
book review,
breast cancer,
ebooks,
rebecca white,
The Wild Queen
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Changes
I got to see Rebecca on Sunday. She's sporting a really cute, black wig now. As she put it, her hubby really likes this one. HERE is where she talks about it on her blog, and you get to see a picture!
She also has been busy working on things other than the cute, butterfly pins. Check THIS out. Personally, I think it's a brilliant idea. I mean, how many brides end up barefoot by the end of the reception? :)
Rebecca also talks about her last round of chemo HERE. And HERE is where she gets up on her soapbox for a little bit and reminds us a little of how precious life really is.
And, if this blog post isn't "linktastic" enough, I've got a few more for you. If you've been haunting my blog, wanting to help out by buying my books, but just find a $4.99 ebook TOO much of a risk, now you can get The Wild Queen for just $2.99!!! Remember, SMASHWORDS offers the book in all formats, but you can also get it directly for your KINDLE or NOOK. I've heard really good things about it. :)
Happy reading!
Labels:
breast cancer,
ebooks,
rebecca white,
The Wild Queen
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Lest We Forget
My friend Rebecca had her second chemo treatment last Thursday. Remember, if you will, to check out her BLOG and leave her comments. She does a pretty good job of chronicling her cancer journey with eloquence and humor.
When she's feeling up to it, she works on these little beauties:
She's been kind enough to do several for me because, in helping her out as much as I can, I'm selling them for $2 each, or giving them to people who help in other ways. I have and wear my own little pink one that is unique and pretty. If you can't read the quote Rebecca puts on each one, it says:
"How does one become a butterfly?" she asked. "You must want to fly so much that you are willing to give up being a caterpillar." ~Anonymous
I've also provided all the handy links to my books so you can pick up whatever you want and, in the process, help Rebecca with her treatment costs. Remember, I'm donating all my book sales income to her *through August 31st, 2011* to help pay her medical expenses. If The Peasant Queen appeals most to you, then you can find the PRINT version here or from your area bookstores. If you'd rather entertain your mind with The Wild Queen, you can find the KINDLE, NOOK or OTHER e-reader versions here.
Or, if you'd rather a quick read, you can snag the chilling short story Ghost Bride for your KINDLE, NOOK, or OTHER e-reader.
And if you're not much of a reader, or don't enjoy YA fantasy novels, you can simply share the link for this post through Facebook or Twitter, or even on your own blog. There more people who know, the more help Rebecca will receive. You never know--just a couple clicks of your mouse may make all the difference! :)
When she's feeling up to it, she works on these little beauties:
She's been kind enough to do several for me because, in helping her out as much as I can, I'm selling them for $2 each, or giving them to people who help in other ways. I have and wear my own little pink one that is unique and pretty. If you can't read the quote Rebecca puts on each one, it says:
"How does one become a butterfly?" she asked. "You must want to fly so much that you are willing to give up being a caterpillar." ~Anonymous
I've also provided all the handy links to my books so you can pick up whatever you want and, in the process, help Rebecca with her treatment costs. Remember, I'm donating all my book sales income to her *through August 31st, 2011* to help pay her medical expenses. If The Peasant Queen appeals most to you, then you can find the PRINT version here or from your area bookstores. If you'd rather entertain your mind with The Wild Queen, you can find the KINDLE, NOOK or OTHER e-reader versions here.
Or, if you'd rather a quick read, you can snag the chilling short story Ghost Bride for your KINDLE, NOOK, or OTHER e-reader.
And if you're not much of a reader, or don't enjoy YA fantasy novels, you can simply share the link for this post through Facebook or Twitter, or even on your own blog. There more people who know, the more help Rebecca will receive. You never know--just a couple clicks of your mouse may make all the difference! :)
Saturday, May 14, 2011
The Easiest Way to Give
I want to introduce you to someone. Her name is Rebecca White. She's married to a kind man, and they have three young children ages 10 to 3. Becky home schools, she does awesome crafts, and she makes jewelry. She even made me this necklace. 
She's 35 years old.
And she has breast cancer.
Becky found a lump and wanted to ignore it. She's young, younger than the recommended age to get a mammogram. But she had to have it checked out, because she's conscientious that way. Because, even when scared, she does what she knows she has to do.
She got the call the afternoon of Wednesday, May 11th. Thursday she went to see the surgeon. Friday morning they did a mastectomy. That's right--two days after finding out.
As I type this, she's still up at the hospital recovering from surgery. I'm desperately resisting the urge to hover in the hospital hallways, because I know I can't do any good there.
Here's why I am telling you about Becky. This diagnosis has come at one of the worst times possible (as if there is such a thing as a good time to have breast cancer). her husband recently had back surgery, and is still recovering. And we all know medical treatments and procedures are expensive.
For the sake of Becky's family, for their well being and to help prevent financial devastation, I am donating ALL my royalties from my book and e-book sales to them to help pay their medical expenses. This includes all royalties and sales through August 31, 2011. Here's where you can help. In as little as a couple of clicks of your mouse, you can purchase a book or e-book and contribute to my cause.
Just so you know, Smashwords.com offers books in ALL e-reader formats, so you can just go there and get whatever you need. I offer the other links in case you prefer to buy directly from Amazon.com or Barnes and Noble.
Ghost Bride is a short story, a ghost story even. It's a fun, quick read that's sure to entertain. Keep your friends close, but your enemies closer. You can buy it on Amazon, Smashwords or BN.com.
The Peasant Queen is my first print novel, but is also available as an e-book if you prefer. Discover the magic.
Here's the summary: After running away from home, Krystal is transported to a faraway kingdom where an evil tyrant is bent on taking the crown - and Krystal's hand in marriage. But when she falls in love with the rightful heir to the throne, she must make an impossible choice: sacrifice her one chance at happiness or face the destruction of an entire kingdom.
You can purchase the PRINT version, or the KINDLE or NOOKBOOK.
The Wild Queen is an unofficial prequel to The Peasant Queen and my first novel length e-book. Roweena is the crown princess of Norvallen, a tiny kingdom with only one thing of value—the Healer’s Grove. The trees in this small section of forest are enchanted, giving a sap that can be mixed into potions or salves to heal almost any wound.
And it’s in high demand.
Lucien, the young king of neighboring Demarde, comes to Roweena’s father seeking an alliance, but comes away with a marriage contract for young Roweena’s hand. Furious and stubborn, this untamed beauty vows he will never conquer her. But the contract purposely gives her time to come to terms with her fate.
Before Lucien can return, Roweena’s home is attacked and her parents are murdered. The Healer’s Grove is also attacked—burned to the ground. With nothing more than her horse and the clothes on her back, Roweena goes to the only person she knows can help her. Lucien.
Purchase The Wild Queen for KINDLE, NOOKBOOK, or at SMASHWORDS.
Thank you. Remember, a little click can go a long way.
She's 35 years old.
And she has breast cancer.
Becky found a lump and wanted to ignore it. She's young, younger than the recommended age to get a mammogram. But she had to have it checked out, because she's conscientious that way. Because, even when scared, she does what she knows she has to do.
She got the call the afternoon of Wednesday, May 11th. Thursday she went to see the surgeon. Friday morning they did a mastectomy. That's right--two days after finding out.
As I type this, she's still up at the hospital recovering from surgery. I'm desperately resisting the urge to hover in the hospital hallways, because I know I can't do any good there.
Here's why I am telling you about Becky. This diagnosis has come at one of the worst times possible (as if there is such a thing as a good time to have breast cancer). her husband recently had back surgery, and is still recovering. And we all know medical treatments and procedures are expensive.
For the sake of Becky's family, for their well being and to help prevent financial devastation, I am donating ALL my royalties from my book and e-book sales to them to help pay their medical expenses. This includes all royalties and sales through August 31, 2011. Here's where you can help. In as little as a couple of clicks of your mouse, you can purchase a book or e-book and contribute to my cause.
Just so you know, Smashwords.com offers books in ALL e-reader formats, so you can just go there and get whatever you need. I offer the other links in case you prefer to buy directly from Amazon.com or Barnes and Noble.

The Peasant Queen is my first print novel, but is also available as an e-book if you prefer. Discover the magic.

You can purchase the PRINT version, or the KINDLE or NOOKBOOK.

And it’s in high demand.
Lucien, the young king of neighboring Demarde, comes to Roweena’s father seeking an alliance, but comes away with a marriage contract for young Roweena’s hand. Furious and stubborn, this untamed beauty vows he will never conquer her. But the contract purposely gives her time to come to terms with her fate.
Before Lucien can return, Roweena’s home is attacked and her parents are murdered. The Healer’s Grove is also attacked—burned to the ground. With nothing more than her horse and the clothes on her back, Roweena goes to the only person she knows can help her. Lucien.
Purchase The Wild Queen for KINDLE, NOOKBOOK, or at SMASHWORDS.
Thank you. Remember, a little click can go a long way.
Labels:
breast cancer,
ebooks,
fund raiser,
rebecca white
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
The Home Stretch
Launching an e-book can be complicated. You want to make sure you're not just putting a story up for the sake of saying you've done it. You want--at least I want--to be sure I'm putting the best story out there that I can.
But, we're in the home stretch now. On Friday, May 13th, readers will be able to purchase The Wild Queen for their e-readers or even home computers.
In case I haven't shared yet, (or if you missed it) The Wild Queen is the story of King Lucien and Queen Roweena--Gregory's parents.
Roweena is the crown princess of Norvallen, a tiny kingdom with only one thing of value—the Healers' Grove. The trees in this small section of forest are enchanted, giving a sap that can be mixed into potions or salves to heal almost any wound.
And it’s in high demand.
Lucien, the young king of neighboring Demarde, comes to Roweena’s father seeking an alliance, but comes away with a marriage contract for young Roweena’s hand. Furious and stubborn, this untamed beauty vows he will never conquer her. But the contract purposely gives her time to come to terms with her fate.
Before Lucien can return, Roweena’s home is attacked and her parents are murdered. The Healer’s Grove is also attacked—burned to the ground. With nothing more than her horse and the clothes on her back, Roweena goes to the only person she knows can help her. Lucien. But he can do nothing with no legal claim to Norvallen, so they marry.
Lucien and his army destroy the invaders and rescue what remains of Roweena’s people. He then makes Norvallen a part of his kingdom, but separate, ruled by a man Lucien trusts who answers only to him.
Roweena tries to carve a piece of life out for herself in Demarde, but her wild ways often clash with Lucien’s calm, reasoning manner. They have a son, Gregory, and then a daughter, Falina. When Roweena is pregnant for the third time, she vanishes. Speculation runs rampant. Was she kidnapped, fallen victim to a mysterious enemy? Or did she run away?
Enjoy!
But, we're in the home stretch now. On Friday, May 13th, readers will be able to purchase The Wild Queen for their e-readers or even home computers.

In case I haven't shared yet, (or if you missed it) The Wild Queen is the story of King Lucien and Queen Roweena--Gregory's parents.
Roweena is the crown princess of Norvallen, a tiny kingdom with only one thing of value—the Healers' Grove. The trees in this small section of forest are enchanted, giving a sap that can be mixed into potions or salves to heal almost any wound.
And it’s in high demand.
Lucien, the young king of neighboring Demarde, comes to Roweena’s father seeking an alliance, but comes away with a marriage contract for young Roweena’s hand. Furious and stubborn, this untamed beauty vows he will never conquer her. But the contract purposely gives her time to come to terms with her fate.
Before Lucien can return, Roweena’s home is attacked and her parents are murdered. The Healer’s Grove is also attacked—burned to the ground. With nothing more than her horse and the clothes on her back, Roweena goes to the only person she knows can help her. Lucien. But he can do nothing with no legal claim to Norvallen, so they marry.
Lucien and his army destroy the invaders and rescue what remains of Roweena’s people. He then makes Norvallen a part of his kingdom, but separate, ruled by a man Lucien trusts who answers only to him.
Roweena tries to carve a piece of life out for herself in Demarde, but her wild ways often clash with Lucien’s calm, reasoning manner. They have a son, Gregory, and then a daughter, Falina. When Roweena is pregnant for the third time, she vanishes. Speculation runs rampant. Was she kidnapped, fallen victim to a mysterious enemy? Or did she run away?
Enjoy!
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Another Ebook
I'm really excited to announce the coming of The Wild Queen, a not-quite-novel-length prequel to my published novel, The Peasant Queen. My excellent cover designer, Deirdra Coppel, has come through once again. Don't you agree?

Here's a little about the story:
Roweena is the crown princess of Norvallen, a tiny kingdom with only one thing of value—the Healer’s Grove. The trees in this small section of forest are enchanted, giving a sap that can be mixed into potions or salves to heal almost any wound.
And it’s in high demand.
Lucien, the young king of neighboring Demarde, comes to Roweena’s father seeking an alliance, but comes away with a marriage contract for young Roweena’s hand. Furious and stubborn, this untamed beauty vows he will never conquer her. But the contract purposely gives her time to come to terms with her fate.
It gives her too long. Before Lucien can return, Roweena’s home is attacked and her parents are murdered. The Healer’s Grove is also attacked—burned to the ground. With nothing more than her horse and the clothes on her back, Roweena goes to the only person she knows can help her. Lucien. But he can do nothing with no legal claim to Norvallen, so they marry.
Lucien and his army destroy the invaders and rescue what remains of Roweena’s people. He then makes Norvallen a part of his kingdom, but separate, ruled by a man Lucien trusts who answers only to him.
Roweena tries to carve a piece of life out for herself in Demarde, but her wild ways often clash with Lucien’s calm, reasoning manner. They have a son, Gregory, and then a daughter, Falina. When Roweena is pregnant for the third time, she vanishes. Speculation runs rampant. Was she kidnapped, fallen victim to a mysterious enemy? Or did she run away?
Watch this blog closely during April for announcements of when The Wild Queen will be available!

Here's a little about the story:
Roweena is the crown princess of Norvallen, a tiny kingdom with only one thing of value—the Healer’s Grove. The trees in this small section of forest are enchanted, giving a sap that can be mixed into potions or salves to heal almost any wound.
And it’s in high demand.
Lucien, the young king of neighboring Demarde, comes to Roweena’s father seeking an alliance, but comes away with a marriage contract for young Roweena’s hand. Furious and stubborn, this untamed beauty vows he will never conquer her. But the contract purposely gives her time to come to terms with her fate.
It gives her too long. Before Lucien can return, Roweena’s home is attacked and her parents are murdered. The Healer’s Grove is also attacked—burned to the ground. With nothing more than her horse and the clothes on her back, Roweena goes to the only person she knows can help her. Lucien. But he can do nothing with no legal claim to Norvallen, so they marry.
Lucien and his army destroy the invaders and rescue what remains of Roweena’s people. He then makes Norvallen a part of his kingdom, but separate, ruled by a man Lucien trusts who answers only to him.
Roweena tries to carve a piece of life out for herself in Demarde, but her wild ways often clash with Lucien’s calm, reasoning manner. They have a son, Gregory, and then a daughter, Falina. When Roweena is pregnant for the third time, she vanishes. Speculation runs rampant. Was she kidnapped, fallen victim to a mysterious enemy? Or did she run away?
Watch this blog closely during April for announcements of when The Wild Queen will be available!
Friday, April 1, 2011
Bees in My Butt Blog Fest

This is me totally dropping the ball.
My friend, Rebecca Shelley, trusted me to put up this blog fest info and link last week. Or even the week before. I started well, but then the email got lost in the swamp that is my email inbox.
If you're quick, you can still enter the contest. Drawing will be held Monday.
HERE is the purchase link to buy Bees in My Butt for $3. Coupon code: 3UKPPPQM
I want you to know I've read the books, and I find them honest (in the way they depict smart kids) and very funny. This is entertaining stuff, and Rebecca is not short on talent. Even though you've missed the fun, please don't hesitate to check out these books. They're worth it. :)
You can read about the Blog Fest HERE.
And here's a little about the books: Take Monkey, a literary genius with flatulence; Bean, a science and math guru; Vinny, a computer whiz who can't keep her mouth shut;
and Art, an artist who can shoot a basketball like a pro, confront them with a mess of fourth grade trouble, and watch the fun
explode.
In Bees in My Butt, the first book of the Smartboys Club series, the members of the Smartboys Club use their skills to battle a group of crazed Ninjas that take over the school. And it happens on a day when Monkey has the worst case of flatulence imaginable.
Labels:
bees in my butt,
blog tour,
ebooks,
rebecca shelley
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Keep Moving Forward
Well, I did it! I mailed the complete submission packet for The Tyrant King to the publisher this morning. Now, it's up to them.
So I'm moving on, too. A really great friend of mine, who happens to be a GENIUS artist, Deirdra saved me yesterday. Check out the cover she came up with for one of my new ebooks.
My version, my own, pathetic attempt, involved what was supposed to be a tattered wedding veil on black velvet with blood splatters. I won't subject you to the pain of viewing it. Thank you, Deirdra, for being so brilliant!
As I sit in my post-submission euphoria, I'm eager to tackle the next projects: ebooks. Ghost Bride is a super short one I'm only going to sell for 99 cents. The Wild Queen, being an installment of The Peasant Queen series, may be as much as $5.00. (I know, don't blow a gasket lol) The Price of Love, may sell for $2 or $3, depending on several things. The more I research, the more intimidated I become--but that's cool, because I'm going to do it anyway. :)
But I have the entire month of April to accomplish this. 3 ebooks published by April 30th. I'm working on revisions, and cover art, and getting all my ducks in a row formatting-wise before I start launching books. I'm also going to attend a class on ebooks (as long as it doesn't interfere with my presentations) when I'm here:
I highly suggest, if you're in or near the area of Ephraim, UT on April 9th you come check it out. You can't beat free, and there's going to be tons of good information passed around.
See you soon!
So I'm moving on, too. A really great friend of mine, who happens to be a GENIUS artist, Deirdra saved me yesterday. Check out the cover she came up with for one of my new ebooks.

My version, my own, pathetic attempt, involved what was supposed to be a tattered wedding veil on black velvet with blood splatters. I won't subject you to the pain of viewing it. Thank you, Deirdra, for being so brilliant!
As I sit in my post-submission euphoria, I'm eager to tackle the next projects: ebooks. Ghost Bride is a super short one I'm only going to sell for 99 cents. The Wild Queen, being an installment of The Peasant Queen series, may be as much as $5.00. (I know, don't blow a gasket lol) The Price of Love, may sell for $2 or $3, depending on several things. The more I research, the more intimidated I become--but that's cool, because I'm going to do it anyway. :)
But I have the entire month of April to accomplish this. 3 ebooks published by April 30th. I'm working on revisions, and cover art, and getting all my ducks in a row formatting-wise before I start launching books. I'm also going to attend a class on ebooks (as long as it doesn't interfere with my presentations) when I'm here:

I highly suggest, if you're in or near the area of Ephraim, UT on April 9th you come check it out. You can't beat free, and there's going to be tons of good information passed around.

See you soon!
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