Why We Don't Need Another Titanic

So this morning I'm drinking my coffee with an ear tuned to the Today Show, when I hear there's an Australian billionaire currently building an exact replica of the Titantic to travel the exact same route in 2016.

Complete with period costumes and music, the unsinkable ship will set sail this time with plenty of lifeboats and modern equipment to locate icebergs. First class passengers will pay a million dollars to sail on the Titanic 2, and steerage will party below like it's 1912.

Global warming will, hopefully, guarantee an iceberg-free trip. They're hailing it as "the safest ship in the world."

I kidd you not.

Shaking my head, I hurt thinking a world that suffers from AIDS, cancer, bad hearts, and starvation while you, Mr. Billionaire, want to build a big boat just for the fun of it.

I suppose people can spend their money any way they want, but this? Seriously?

What more can one say, other than ... what a absolute waste of time, energy, and money.

Okay. I'll step down from my soapbox and get back to work.

Blessings to you and yours.

Oscars For Novelists?

 

Michael and I have seen more than our share of movies this year on the big screen so I’m paying closer attention to the Oscars than usual. But it got me to thinking, why isn’t there an award show for writers? Just for writers.

As a writer, do I dare approach that question without sounding childish?

I can’t help it though. Think about it.

What books or stories have you read recently, or years ago, that you remember vividly? What characters still linger and come to your mind at the strangest times?

What novel, if any, has had the capacity to haunt you for days, weeks, and years?

What author consistently moves you like few others?

What in their voice gives them the edge?

What common thread weaves their unforgettable stories to the cloak of your memory?

And what happens when that book is made into a movie? Are you one of the many who say, "... yeah, but the book was better."

The majority of movies produced are a direct result of the novel. Though some films are retitled, many producers use the book's title. I remember watching old news footage of Margaret Mitchell appearing at the Oscars—a moment of inspiration from my youth. But since, I can’t recall a novelist at the Oscars. I think if they go, they’re seated way in the back somewhere. Perhaps I’m wrong. I hope that I am.

Still, I don’t remember J.K. Rowling, Stephen King, Pat Conroy, or even Jodi Picoult appearing at an awards show. When the cast of The Help walked the Red Carpet last year, was Kathryn Stockett among them? Does anyone know?

Sometimes an actor, when making an acceptance speech, will acknowledge the author. I recall Queen Latifah thanking Sue Monk Kidd for writing The Secret Life of Bees. Quite possibly I’m wrong to think the author should have anything to do with the film once the story is in the hands of Steven Spielberg. Maybe that's awards enough. But when a book is optioned and the rights sold, should the author disappear into oblivion? If not for the book … would the academy-award winning film have been made?

Writers who give breath and blood to create, publish, and promote are not guaranteed success to any degree. No more than any other artist. But if their novel is lucky enough to have made it to the big time--developed into a hugely successful film and recognized by the The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the Oscars, should there not be something more than a nod to the author?

Just sayin’.

Blessings to you and yours.

Rules For Bloggers. Really?

The road less traveled ...

I've been thinking about my blog, in terms of what the "experts" are saying about how to blog, what to blog, and all these rules suddenly popping up all over the Internet and in writing conferences across the country.

Hmmm. Here's a question you may have asked yourself. Am I an expert in anything other than my  personal journey? What do I have to contribute?

"A great deal," is my answer to that question.

After more than a decade of writing and publishing on a full-time basis, I've acquired a bit of knowledge. Often the road less traveled for me winded itself through communities of publicity and promotion where Michael and I blazed our own trails. Together, we cut through one swamp after another, climbed more than a few cold mountains, and cared less when they said "it can't be done." Or, "you shouldn't do it that way."

I've just come off a ten-day trip to the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina where I spoke on three separate occasions. Driving to Franklin, NC, through a blizzard where dozens of cars slid into ditches and off the mountain, I said to Michael, "What are we doing this for?!"

"Because we're compelled to go," was Michael's answer to that question.

I've posted on Facebook about each event, but I can say a thread of brokenness followed me on this trip. I wept on more than one occasion, delivering my speeches. I could not help but think how broken I became before God could make something out of me. For me to deny my walk with God, to renounce my roots, the spiritual side of me--it would be like asking me to cut off my hands and hack out my heart. It's not possible. As much as my work is about the dark side of religion, I know there's a light in the midst of it. I know it as sure as I know the sun will rise in the east every morning.

My point is that my blog has always been, and will continue to be, one of inspiration. Occasionally, I inform and enlighten, but to inspire you--that is my mission. You see, without the struggle, the dark halls and the deep valleys, I would not have the inward fortitude to purse my dreams. Dreams so far out of reach that looking back now, it's nothing less than a miracle I lived through it. I've walked through the valley, and I've stood on the mountaintop, but in the valley I found my inspiration. Do you think, for one second, I will change my message to fit within today's rules for the modern blogger?

Something happened to me during those years, I became a different person. Stronger. Determined. My favorite quote, as you may know, is by Helen Keller. "Character cannot be developed in ease and quite. Only through experiences of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, vision cleared, ambition inspired and success achieved."

This is the lifeblood of what I believe. My hope today is that you never have to walk those roads. But if you do, know that your journey is for a reason. Each step forward will present a truth about yourself that may be terrible to bear but the mold will break, resulting in a better, a stronger you. A goal reacher.

Today, I enjoy many blogs. Some of us are called to entertain, teach, make others laugh, and inspire. How you do that is up to you but more than anything, you've got to write your heart. It does not matter if you have ten thousand followers, or only two ... so what. Be true to yourself. And let those who make our rules ... live by them. You don't have to.

Blessings to you and yours.

Thank You, Rebecca

Thank you, Rebecca, for this review ... and for your permission to post it here on my blog. I'm honored.

By Rebecca LeCompte, Co-Founder of Imperfect Wives

Televenge. To me, this word seems a mash-up of televangelist and revenge. I don’t know if that is what Pamela King Cable had in mind when she gave her novel this title, but I think it’s perfect!

I don’t want to give you the run-of-the-mill book review here…you can search those out on Amazon and other places on the Internet if you’d like. Instead, I’d rather tell you about my experience with this unique novel and its amazing author.

(Just to give you a bit of background on me as a reader, as a girl, I read under the covers with a flashlight late at night, in the bathtub, when I should have been doing homework. As an adult, I read a lot of Christian “inspirational” books and a little bit of Christian fiction, but I try not to start anything that looks too good when I’ve got important work to do because I can be a bit obsessive about finishing a great book.)

Pamela first came to my attention about eight months ago when she joined us on The Imperfect Wives Club on Facebook.Each time she posted or commented, I felt drawn to her. I soon discovered that she is an author and that her first novel, Televenge, was to be released in October 2012.

I felt the Lord prompting me to purchase the book and read it, so I bought it within two weeks of its initial release. From the excellent reviews, I was really excited to read it.

Televenge is a perfect blend of mystery, suspense, romance, Christian fiction, chick-lit, and theology study. In the manner of C.S. Lewis, Pamela uses a page-turning story to communicate vital spiritual truths to her readers.

I devoured this book in three days and came away impacted. Pamela drew me into the story, made me love (or despise) the characters and really care about what happened to them. I was rooting for Andie and wanted to see justice for those who were misrepresenting the name of Jesus. The plot twists and turns caught me off-guard.

I was so impressed by this book that I reached out to Pam to tell her. Since then, Pam and I have spoken on the phone several times and I’m pleased to call her my friend.

For us imperfect wives, Pam covers multiple themes in marriage: immaturity, alcohol abuse, pornography, mental health issues, spousal abuse, and the pain of the reality of marriage that isn’t truly Christ-centered.

Pam’s writing captures the pain of sin. And yet…she doesn’t leave her readers feeling discouraged or hopeless.

Pam contrasts sin in the church with congregations that are honestly and authentically serving Christ. In fact, the entire book is a series of contrasts between good and evil, dark and light. As her characters face almost impossible situations, they see God’s faithfulness even when it takes longer than they (or the reader) might like. But isn’t that what happens in real life? Imperfect people make less-than-ideal choices and God is faithful anyway.

In the end, I walked away reminded of the importance of knowing God personally and intimately and the principle that it isn’t enough to rely on someone else to teach you—you must know God’s Word for yourself and have the courage to stand up for what is right.

Pam is going to be our guest on Imperfect Wives Radio tomorrow, Tuesday, February 19 at 10 am EST/7 am PST. You can join us live or archived at  Imperfect Wives Radio, A Compassionate Heart: Interview with Pamela King Cable. Join us as we talk about her novel and so much more, including the importance of having a compassionate heart!
 

On The Road Again ...

Mile by mile, the earth turns gently. It rushes up, then moves away. I’m conscious of its pitch and roll in my stomach, traveling the rising hills and pushing against the horizon. For a little while at least, I empty everything out of my head but what’s on the road ahead of me. Unhappiness that once pumped through my hollowed-out heart is surrendered to the freedom and relief of this time and this place in my life. Knowing the slow climb of Televenge is like our trek up the mountain.

 

Definite. Clear. Forward.

 

The Televenge book tour marches on ... there are tunes in the CD player, my white knight drives the van full of books, and our faithful pup, Scout, keeps watch in the back ...

 

Life is good.

 

Blessings to you and yours.

STORYTELLING REVIVAL!

It's revival time! Back to drama. Television with plots and wondrous characters!

Hallelujah!

It's a throwback to the days when I stayed home from church on Friday nights to watch Dallas and Falcon Crest. The days before Tivo and the Hopper. The days when you couldn't fast forward, replay, or pause to salt your popcorn. The days when only the hint of sex was enough. When you had to pay the price of a movie admission to see a head exploding as it was shot off by a lunatic's gun. When you had to get off the couch to change the channel on a television that stuck out three feet from the wall. But, oh, the primetime drama series of those days!

It's revival time. The glory days of TV are back ... and it's called Downton Abbey.

Free of commercials, the story moves quickly and you find yourself not only caring for the charcters, but falling in love with them. High tension, plot layers, and a strong theme, Downton Abbey offers up drama on a silver platter, complete with white-gloved servers and well-dressed dinner partners.

My favorite is the Dowager Countess, played by the award-winning actor, Maggie Smith.

"Grief makes one so terribly tired."
"People like us are never unhappily married."
"Lie is so unmusical a word."
"I suppose she has inappropriate costumes for every activity."

Running a close second is Lady Grantham, played by Elizabeth McGovern. If I could go back in time and be anybody, it would be her. But the writers have created a beloved character in the way of Lord Grantham's mother. At the very least, television has returned something that I (for one) have been missing -- Sunday night excitement. Looking forward to that nine o'clock hour reminds me of revolving my Saturday nights around The Love Boat and Fantasy Island.

Storytelling. Its revival is here. The drama of the old-fashioned 'eighties mini-series is back. We're sick of reality shows with no story. We're fed up with violence our children should never see, CSI intrigue that's no longer intriguing, and open-heart surgeries in our living rooms. Give me big hats, couture of the 'twenties, crystal and linen luncheons, and the love affair between the classes. Sound boring? It's anything but.

And I'm loving every second of it.

Don't ya just love good writing, no matter its form?

It's revival time, and I don't even mind the sawdust this time.

Blessings to you and yours. (Oh, and the pictures? My family circa 1920)

A Writer's Ultimate Goal

The best library event ever! The room filled quickly at the Stark County Library, because at this particular library, they can't keep their five copies of Televenge on the shelf. There is a waiting list for Televenge, as well as the five copies of Southern Fried Women, and the list is growing.

There's nothing like speaking to a packed house and selling out of your books.

The warm support from those who had already read the book became evident as they opened up after my reading, and expressed their love for my work. It touched me deeply and I want to express my heartfelt thanks to each person who attended last night's reading.

To speak about your book is one thing, but to speak to a group who is sincerely there to support you and lift you up ... there's nothing like it. Afterward, the books we brought to sell sold out in a matter of minutes. Grateful for every kind word and gesture, I realize this is why I do what I do.

It's not just about making money. It's not just because I love to write and can't see myself doing anything else. It's because my message touches people on some level. It's not just a fluffy story with a protagonist, a bad guy, and lots of pretty prose. Something tangible seeps out of me as I write, and somehow I manage to get that onto the page. It then reveals itself to the reader, who in turn, is changed, blessed, and find they're wanting more.

That has always been my ultimate goal. As a writer, you can't ask for more than that.

Blessings to you and yours.

How Do You Handle Adversity?

No matter the thickness of your skin, adversity comes to us all. When you pour your broken heart and scraped-thin soul into your work, you don’t want rejection. After decades of hard work, to have your scheduled presentation cancelled due to "possibly offending the audience with religious controversy," you have to wonder why you put yourself out there. We won't even talk about the lost revenue.

To have a major institution cancel you by an email from a third party within weeks of presenting, without a full explanation, or even the hint of an apology, as if you were nothing at all but a blip on their schedule ... it's cruel, really.

But it is not the end of the world. To say the least.

I guess few writers wear their feelings on their sleeves. Or blog about it. But I figured, why not? This has not been an easy row to hoe. Might as well see the downside, as well as my victories.

We take the bad with the good and hope for the best. When you get right down to it, my husband lost his 18 year-old daughter to a childhood illness in 1997, and he’s also a recent breast-cancer survivor. At one point in my life, my children and I were homeless. There are a lot worse things. A lot worse.

In the end, God always has a way of turning my adversities into advantages. And I like that.

Onward.

Blessings to you and yours.

 

Writers! What Are You Willing To Do, And Where Do You Draw The Line?

It’s no secret. Vast changes occur daily in the publishing industry and award writers with options. Or do you look at it that way? I’m taking a survey, and asking writers:


Should you continue to jump through fiery hoops while submitting to agents, who may or may not read or answer your query for weeks or months, if at all?


Should writers spend chunks of writing time putting together the items listed below (or something like it) when the market is already saturated?


If editors were open to unsolicited manuscripts, are you confident you could obtain publication with a major house on your own?


If you are an un-agented writer, what are you willing to do to get noticed by a literary agent?


Is self-publishing your first choice, or your last resort?


Be honest. When it comes to literary agents, where do you draw the line?


Proposal Cover letter
One-page sell sheet, summarizing your manuscript
Bio
Story Synopsis
Market analysis
Competitive analysis
Marketing strategies
History of the manuscript
The first fifty pages

One Hell Of A Review From One Hell Of A Blogger

These are my favorite excerpts from Sara's Organized Chaos, a blog, dated January 22, 2013. You can read the entire blog and follow this up-front and in-your-face blogger at http://strandupdate.blogspot.com/ .

She's sassy, a strong woman of character who doesn't hold much back. I guess that's why I like her. She uses words that will offend some, but gosh darn it ... she speaks her mind without reservation. Whether or not you agree with her, she gets her points across.

You may have to cover your virgin ears, but ... hey ... like I said ... I like her. I like her a lot. I've actually liked each and every blogger on this blog tour. Supportive, each blogger has given great reviews, for which I'm grateful. Generous with their words, the blogger's reviews on Televenge are gifts to treasure. This one especially.

Obviously.

She gave me one hell of good one. So good, I had to quote some of it on my own blog.

Enjoy!

I'll be honest with you. When I first opened my package and saw how huge this book was, I know I said out loud, "Jesus Christ, I need to start looking to see how many pages there are going to be. Shit." It's 584 pages. I know, you're hyperventilating, aren't you? Well I'm going to tell you that every piece of this book is needed. You know I hate fluff and I'm the first one to tell an author to stop putting so much useless shit in your book just to make it a normal sized novel, you're wasting my time. But not the case in this book. I really thought it would be and I kept looking for it, but in hindsight, you need everything. Everything plays a piece in the end, ultimately.

I don't know where to even start. Seriously. I'm sitting here wondering how to review this but I'll tell you that when I finished it? I had to not read for a few days. I had to emotionally get my shit together because it takes a lot out of you ...

The most fascinating thing about this book is the religion aspect. Anyone who knows me knows I don't subscribe to church. I have never thought that a pastor or a preacher has any right interpreting a piece of religious writing that may or may not be true. The fact is, nobody really knows and the people who don't acknowledge that, scare the shit out of me ...

Every time you think you've figured it out, you didn't. You're so wrong it's shameful. And as the book winds down you think surely there can't be any more surprises ...

And when the entire ball of yarn unwinds and you see everything as a timeline? Man. I'd have to think any other person would give up hope all together but Andie doesn't. Andie is the epitome of a strong woman ... I still can't get over how so many people failed her. People who really loved her knew something wasn't right and they either hid hurtful secrets or turned a blind eye and said Jesus said this is how it should be. And to know that there are so many people in the world that really believe Jesus thinks this kind of behavior is OK is insane. And terrifying.

For this being such a huge book, every loose end was finished. Well, there is one with Suri (yes, you read that right) that I wish we knew more about. I won't even tell you who Suri is because it would ruin a huge plot point in the book for you. But everything else? Tied up, perfectly. Well, as perfectly as all of these troubled characters could be ...

I can't tell you how much I want you to read this book. I want you to read it right now ... You'll enjoy it, love it, be horrified and hopeful all at once. I am even going to say it's probably one of the best books I have ever read. Truly. I can think of just a few books in my lifetime that I've read that have pulled at me and this is one on a very short list. I can't explain it, it just is.

 

Thank you, Sara!!!

 

 

 

What's The Highlight Of The Week, Pray Tell?

Sometimes I don't know if I'm comin' or goin' ... the days fly by and every once in a while I get a glimpse of where I want to be ... Today, Charlene Wilson honored me by her interview. It's the featured Highlight of the Week. http://highlightedauthor.com/2013/01/welcome-pamela-king-cable/  Charlene's book blog is a thing of beauty (in this writer's opinion) and it made me take a look back at just how far I've traveled on this journey. Where I've come from ... where I'm going ...

I've traveled thousands of miles ... navigated many cities and hundreds of small towns ...

from coast to coast ...

I've stood on every type of landscape, spoken to well over 200 groups in every type of venue, been on TV and radio, and have had my picture taken with some well-known authors, agents, and editors.

 

But one thing never ceases to astound me. One thing stands out in my mind as the crux of real achievement. Something no writer can do without. It is the one thing critical to a writer's success. I've discovered it takes more than the natural talent of a great storyteller. It takes more than knowing your craft like you know your name. It's not about how many writing conferences you rack up in a year, or the prestigious contacts you've made. It has nothing to do with social media, or landing an agent, or a book contract. Degrees, awards, accolades, and TV interviews ... none of it means a thing, without this one thing. One vital attribute. Humility.

  

I've always said a writer can live without a lot of things. Courage isn't one of them. Humility, my friend, is the other.

 

There's nothing wrong with taking pride in your work. But you've got to look back. See how far you've come, in order to know where you're going. Without a humble spirit, you can't help others. You can't pay it forward, and you've got to pay it forward. Kindness, a gentle spirit, and the ability to be truly thankful each and every time someone puts you and your work on their blog, web site, and facebook page. Every time somebody mentions you, or says something kind or good about your work it's not always possible to thank them all, but in your heart you better offer up a word of thanks. You must. He knows the intent of our hearts, He knows. And I have to believe it's the secret to success.

 

Without humility you won't stay on top long. You won't even see the top that few have seen.  You'll ride a wave, but it'll take you out to sea and drop you into a cold ocean, instead of setting your feet firmly on a golden shore.

 

So for me, this week ... the Highlight of the Week http://highlightedauthor.com/2013/01/welcome-pamela-king-cable/ is an honor, but it's also a humbling experience. Any success I experience is due to the hundreds of folks who have cheered me on and the thousands of readers who have taken a chance and bought the book. For that, I'm eternally grateful. And forever ... humbled.

 

Blessings to you and yours.

Vows To Last A Lifetime

Ten years ago TODAY, I married my best friend. A man of integrity, wisdom, and strength for the both of us. There's not a lot more to say, that I haven't already said about him on my blog and on Facebook. So, I'll just quote myself.

From the acknowledgements in Televenge ...

And last but never least, I want to thank Michael Cable. If it had not been for your unfailing love and unswerving patience there would be no Televenge. None of this could have been possible had you not picked me out of the miry clay many years ago and given me this whole new wonderful life. Your constant devotion made it possible for me to be a writer. Not once in over ten years did you complain of my endless hours of writing. Your uncompromising belief in me is mind-boggling, and your sacrifice epitomizes what it means to love me as Christ loves the church. Thank you for never allowing me to give up. With you, I found unconditional love and the true meaning of the word, husband. I’m grateful to be made from your rib, a man of extraordinary integrity, insight, and strength, the vessel through whom God has chosen to love me in ways I never thought possible. There are no words.

 

 

 

To Hold Time In Your Hands

I've been antiquing all week-end. One of my favorite things to do ... as a writer. Michael and I took a quick trip to Columbus to visit with our daughter. Among the things we love in Columbus (besides eating in fabulous Columbus restaurants) is to hunt the best antique shops.

Antique shops are a place where the writer can connect with history up close and personal. I'm not talking about expensive antique furniture. It's the little things that set my soul on fire. Vintage linens and jewelry, a set of tin canisters from the 1950s, hats and purses from the 1920s, quilts, book ends and of course, old books. My mind wanders while the stories percolate under my skin. I'm usually itching to start writing after a weekend of antique and thrift store shopping.

Sunday we discovered an antique mall where someone had collected thousands of old postcards from every city in Ohio. People communicated via postcards from the late 1800s until they installed telephones in the 1930s and 40s. To me, postcards were the first form of TEXTING. It was a way to send a "quick" message to Auntie in the next town or state.

It cost a one cent stamp to send a post card. All the cards in the bins were addressed in a simple fashion. Miss Bella Juhn, Mansfield, Ohio. Somehow, it magically arrived in Miss Bella's mailbox. No house number, no zip code. The Mansfield postman just knew where Miss Bella lived.

Amazing.

Sifting through those postcards, I wanted to spend the day reading each and every fascinating one of them. My daughter bought three to frame. Each card cost from one to two dollars. Can you imagine what the sender of that postcard would think if they knew we paid two dollars for their penny postcard?

I bought only one. One that begged me to take it home. The card was postmarked Wooster, Ohio, July 24, 2:30 p.m., 1909 from a man to his sister in Mansfield. It reads as follows:

Dear Sister,
I got your card this morning. It was a beauty. Well I am trying to be good but I can't, so I'll just be careful and let it go at that. I heard a lot of darkies sing last night. They were wonderful. It was the Ferguson Jubilee Singers. I never laughed so hard in my life. Goodbye, your brother.

A simple note from a brother to his sister in a town about forty miles away. Communicating was by telegraph or post. Or showing up unannounced. His sister had told him to "be good." Hmmm. I can imagine an entire scene based on that one sentence. And of course the word "darkies" caught my eye. As if it was normal to say. The other side of the card is an old picture of some park in Wooster, Ohio that no longer exists. It's a housing development now.

Holding this piece of history in my hands, my fingers tingle. Any old picture, like the one above, is packed full with story. Old books, photographs, postcards, letters, and maps--an abundant supply of story. Mixing the real of the past with fiction is a calling for some. It's up to the writer to pull it out and make something beautiful out of it.

Blessings to you and yours.

Oh, To Be A Balanced Writer

This is me. Speaking to a large group of readers. It's part of what I do. But it's not really who I am. Although I enjoy speaking in public, I'm a writer who speaks. Not a speaker who writes.

 

Writers must find comfort in their own work. In what they write. Even a small amount. Agreed, we must first be a reader to become a good writer ... but sometimes ... it's good to pick up your own work and read it. For the fun of it. For the comfort of it. Don't try to rewrite what's already published, just enjoy it as a reader. Here's why:

 

Perfection is an impossibility. During the writing process, you can strive for it, but obsessing over perfection is like trying to walk on water. You're not Jesus. Believe me, when I say I struggle with perfection. To the point that it's painful.

We're constantly bombarded and overwhelmed by the industry and it's changes. By the plethora of writing information on the Internet, social media, and every new book published on writing. At some point in your career, you feel as though you must read and study it all.

It's impossible.

What gives a writer a leg up? Is it a degree and a fancy teaching position? A long list of popular published books by Random House? A presenter spot on writing conference rosters across the country, proving your expertise to the wannabes?

It looks good on a resume. I'll give you that. It may even raise a few literary eyebrows when it appears on your book proposal or query.

But is it enough? Is it a guarantee of success?

Writers must maintain. Although some well-knowns are continually guaranteed a spot on bestseller lists, you're probably not one of them. (You know who these folks are.) Early in their career they blew straight to the top, selling thousands and making millions. They made their publishers rich. So they're guaranteed those coveted bestseller spots, resting on bitter laurels. Amazingly enough, readers feel safe spending their book money on yet another novel by ... well ... you know the Walmart list. Costco. Kmart. Walgreen's. Target.

Other than the Walmart author, how many writers are secure in their career direction?

Few, if any.

So where does that leave us?

The apostle Paul said to be content in every situation. Can we attain even a measure of contentment on our journey to publish?

We must be content to just ... write.

I'm not saying don't bother studying the industry. Not at all. But don't be consumed by it. At some point you must trust that someone else has your back. Someone of your choosing must take the reins, fill in the gaps, and help you once the book is written. You can't do it all. It's impossible. And stop feeling guilty about it. Unless you have some well-deserved help, that slippery thing we call publicity is going to slip through the cracks. You're a writer. You need to research, outline, and write that next book. Doesn't matter if you self-publish or have landed a contract with one of the Big 6. (Or is it 5 now?) You've got to find a trusted individual who will make the connections with your agent, editors, reporters, and book those appearances for you.

You're only one person, after all. Quit whining about it.

This morning, I found comfort in the pages of Televenge. Other than reading in public from chosen chapters, it's been a while since I've flipped through the chapters and randomly read from my own book. I found a great deal of comfort there as I recalled the struggle for finding the right word, and how I cried at the end of certain scenes or when finishing that first draft. It all came back to me, the journey of that book. The warm feelings of security in knowing ... I'm a writer.

I'm well aware of the push for writers to "get out there and build that platform!" Well, yeah. It's a necessary evil. We got to work our tail off. Right. Heard it. Something we're destined for, like it or not. So you might as well buck up. You must meet your readers. Get out there and speak, no excuses, on social media sites and up close and personal. Which is why this profession is not for everybody who thinks they have a book in them. But at some point, we got to find a balance.

We have to hold on to those words ... I write.

And be at peace.

Blessings to you and yours.

I WRITE

 

In Kathryn Stockett's novel, The Help, when Stuart asks Skeeter, "What do you do with your time?" she answers emphatically, "I write."

I wonder what went through Kathryn's mind when she wrote those two words. I write.

It's the second day of the new year, and yesterday on the first day of the new year, I pulled the covers over my head and screamed ... "NO MORE! I'M SICK OF IT. I DON'T WANT TO DO THIS ANYMORE!!!"

Can we get real, here? Can we stop with the cutesy blogs and read something real? Can I write my heart this morning without backlash? Without somebody thinking I'm wallering in self-pity? Because I really just want to write what I'm feeling today, without pretense. Without agenda. Without that forced smile we all know so well.

Time to hash out a few words and see if anybody out there ... relates.

Every day I read all the wonderful blogs by other writers. Encouragement abounds. Positive messages and quotes and anecdotes fill the Internet. Every time I open my email, it's overflowing with writers, editors, bloggers, literary agents ... some folks I know, others I don't ... all telling me what to do and what not to do to be successful in the new year. It makes me wonder. How many of them have given up at some point. Just chucked in the towel and said ... enough. Enough of this bullshit.

The market is over-saturated. It reminds me of Noah and the ark. Only a select few are hand-picked by the "publishing gods" to travel on the ark, while the rest of us tread water, pound on the doors, and scream to be heard.

Now ... God knows ... I'm grateful. For every positive review of Televenge. For every letter of love and support. There have been many. I'm thankful for those who have expressed encouragement on my behalf and continue to do so. I'm not talking about that. That's not what this post is about. But the journey with Televenge as my debut novel has also taught me a few new things about the industry. The biggest is that although I've been a writer since I was a bitty girl, a full-time writer since 2003, the struggle is FAR from over.

In fact, I feel as if I've bounced along this pioneer trail on a wagon train heading west for over a decade. I've nearly drowned crossing the Mississippi, manuevered through a few prarie fires, and fought off one too many Pawnee with only a double-barrel and a fast horse. And now ... I'M STANDING AT THE BASE OF THE DAMN ROCKY MOUNTAINS.

I thought, at least, I would get a glimpse of home. How the hell do I get over this mountain?

It's enough to send a body under the covers.

Through all the unfairness within this industry, it doesn't matter. Not anymore. There's plenty of broken dreams out there. An abundance of struggling writers pounding on the ark. What is it that will set some of us apart? The story of a lifetime? The perfect editor/agent/publisher/book deal/book tour? Thousands of Facebook friends and Twitter followers? When the moon/stars/plants all line up?

None of the above.

The answer is simple. To get out of bed every morning, and write. To not think about the outcome or the awards or those who have let you down. The answer is to put social media on the back seat of the bus, and your butt in the driver seat. To do the one thing God has called you to do.

I'm a writer. It's what I do. The unvarnished truth is after all the new year resolutions are made and broken, after all the glass half-fulls are put to bed, I'm still wagon-training.

This morning I woke up and realized ... I can't go back. I've come too far. What is it that makes me get out of bed? What is it?

I write.

It's just that simple.

Blessings to you and yours.

In Anticipation Of A New Year

It's the last day of 2012 ... New Years Eve, and I can't help but think this year went by like the flash of my old Kodak Instamatic. And the problem is ... we can't get a second of it back. Or maybe that's a good thing depending on how you look at it.

All the things we wish we would've said, could've done, should've prioritized ... to late now.

I spent the first part of the year deep in the final few edits of Televenge and working with my publisher and publicist to launch my debut novel. And it feels like the year was absorbed with Televenge. The launch, the book tour, the blog tour, facebook, twitter, blogging, and talking to hundreds of people ... the publicity train never stops for me. I won't be getting off this sucker for quite a while.

In the meantime, I'm nearly finished with final edits of the third book, and I've already researched and outlined the fourth. Where it's heading is a guess, I just know I'm writing and loving these new stories. Funny, how you think the book you just published was the "book I was born to write" when the one you're working on is every bit as absorbing. I'm thrilled with the process, once again, and feel myself changing as a writer. In a good way ... at least I hope so. At least you never stop learning.

Many things happened this year with family and friends, good, bad, and not so good ... but the one thing my body continually reminds me of is that ... I'm another year older. Having fought the good fight with my husband's breast cancer, we endured three surgeries this year. And yet I have to say, it was still a great year. We beat the breast cancer, and after two cataract surgeries, Michael can now see again. "Magic eyes," we call them. Having great friends to support us, we couldn't have been more blessed.

I'm looking forward to 2013. Thirteen is my lucky number. I was born on the 13th. So, we shall see what the new year brings ... I'm hoping for specifics this year. I have a battle plan. I have a list, in fact.

But right now ... at this moment ... I just want to say thank you. To my readers, to all those who stood behind Michael and I during 2012. I thank you from the bottom of my heart. God only knows where I'd be without your love and support.

So, however you bring in the new year, drinking cheap champagne, rocking out in front of the TV and imagining you're in Times Square, or sleeping in a warm bed ... just know I'm wishing you the best year ever. And I mean it. I've said it a thousand times, and I'll say it again ...

BLESSINGS TO YOU AND YOURS IN 2013!

Why It's Hard For An Author To Give An Honest Book Review

 



I don't give book reviews unless it's a four or five-star review. I don't even like to give four-star reviews. For obvious reasons.

As an author myself, to give anything less than a great review is ludicrous. I mean, who the hell do I think I am?  ...

But c'mon ... writers are constantly reading. When we aren't writing, we're reading. And lately, I've read some pretty awful stuff. But can I say what? Of course not. I'm not that stupid.

You can be sure when I review a book, it's because it's fabulous. In my review, I'm sincere, meaning every word.

I love a great read, stuff you haven't seen before, the kind of book that roots in my soul, creating great vines of tangled prose I will never escape from. Godamighty, it's the stuff legends are made of ... great stories to soothe the mind of the tormented and stir the rage of the stoic. There's nothing better than a life-changing story. I've read a few in my life that remain close to me to this day.

But back to the "terrible-awful". (Love those words from Kathryn Stockett's novel, The Help) ... I recently spent a couple days with my nose in a novel that was heralded as one of the top five of 2012. And I'm not talking about 50 Shades of Gray. That's the one exception I made earlier this year, and I won't waste another breath on it. The novel I'm talking about was recommended to me by numerous friends and so, I bought it and could not for the life of me, get through the first 100 pages. I gave it 100 pages and stopped. Ugh. I was so disappointed and figured it's just me. Me. Everybody loves this. There's something wrong with me.

So I read ten more pages, stopped, took out my book marker, and put it back on my shelf. I wish I could say why I didn't like it, but it would give it away ... so I'll just leave it at that.

Writers, authors -  we cannot give honest book reviews. Not of the books we don't like. It's makes us look haughty. Prideful. Like a Kardashian at a country club. Nose in the air know-it-all.

And I'm not so ignorant to think everyone will love everything I write. That's the beauty of books. There's something for everybody.

As an author, it's just not a good idea to be anything other than humble. If I don't have something nice to say about another author's work, I don't say anything at all. Raised by a southern mother, it was the code she lived by. A code I've passed down to my own daughter.

If I'm asked to critique a manuscript, that's between me and the writer ... but once the book is published, then as an author myself, it's best left to the readers to judge. Not me. I live in a glass house. I never throw stones.

Blessings to you and yours.

Oh, To Change The World With Love!

It's been a rough week. One day after I was on Fox News Radio, the nation was suddenly thrown into mourning over the loss of innocent children. My mind has been burdened with this tragedy, and I'm finding it hard to concentrate on little else. Christmas has taken a different turn for me. As a grandmother of three, ages 5, 3, and 2 ... I can't seem to wrap my mind around what has happened and the questions are raging.

Nevertheless ... I've decided to post the podcast today, because the message behind it is about love. And kindness. And decency. And loving our neighbors.

Vipp Jaswal has honored me by asking me to once again appear on his highly-rated radio show from New York City, along with Robin Whitley, a pastor who wrote In a Southern Closet. Vipp is an amazing man whom I've grown to know and respect as one of the top men in the media. His soothing voice is like being comforted by a good parent. I can't express enough how appreciative I am that he has requested me to return to his show.

I hope you enjoy this podcast. A subject that will stir the emotion. God Loves You Just The Way You Are.
http://foxrad.io/5iY

Blessings to you and yours.

Is Love A Basic Human Right?

"Where, after all, do universal human rights begin? In small places, closest to home, so close and so small that they cannot be seen on any map of the world. Yet they are the world of the individual person: The neighborhood he lives in; the school or college he attends; the factory, farm or office where he works. Such are the places where every man, woman, and child seeks equal justice, equal opportunity, equal dignity without discrimination. Unless these rights have meaning there, they have little meaning anywhere. Without concerted citizen action to uphold them close to home, we shall look in vain for progress in the larger world." Eleanor Roosevelt

A quote by a great woman. A quote near and dear to my heart.

Today I'm about to go on the Vipp Jaswal Show for the second time, Fox News Radio in New York City. I'm honored to be asked back, to say the least. But this time it's an extremely controversial subject. One that seems to hit many Christians smack between the eyes. Unless they avoid talking about it altogether, they're growing more militant regarding this subject by the day, it seems. I have decided to be a voice crying in the wilderness, taking the road less traveled. Such has been my life.

But it also seems that God has given me a podium. Handed me a microphone and said, "I'm giving you the opportunity to speak to the world." Opportunities like this come along but few times in one's lifetime.

Courage. A word I find that follows me like a shadow.

I’m not out to convert or convince, however. What you believe is your right. I don’t care what you believe, frankly. My message is one of decency, kindness, and of moral courage. I believe Christ’s message was about love, forgiveness, kindness, and compassion. Basic human rights. Sometimes, we just have to be reminded.

So, stay tuned. I'll post the link in the next couple days.

Blessings to you and yours.

For The Love Of The Book

I heard an interesting conversation the other day. An independent bookstore owner said he was sick and tired of folks coming into his store just to check out what they can buy on Amazon.

Really. Who does that?

Why do people use the bookstore as a showroom for Amazon? Well, the answer is simple. Price. And unfortunately, the "look inside" feature on Amazon is not enough for some folk. They like to see the book first. Sounds crazy, but it's true.

Unless, of course, you buy e-books. But that's another story.

Just like everything else, the cost of a book has gone up. I had to sympathize with the store owner, and yet we all know it's a dying business. Personally, I love the bookstore experience. Browsing, taking my time to leaf through books, the smell of coffee, the soft chair to sit and read a chapter or two. Discovering a new author and buying that debut novel! I love it. And I've begun to use Amazon as a place to find books I want to buy in bookstores. It's my own personal fight to keep the brick and mortar stores alive as long as possible.

I remember when my publisher was debating on whether or not to make my novel, Televenge, a hardback or trade. Hardback novels, especially for debut novels, are "prestigious" and supposed to show a certain amount of "class" for the author. It's been said that some of the bigger book reviewers won't even review a trade. But these times ... they are a-changin'.

Televenge in hardback would've cost upward to around $35.00. It's 580 pages, after all. My concern ... I wanted people to buy it! Some readers only have so much money in their book budget. So we decided on trade paperback, at the low cost of $19.95. What a deal. And I still got reviewed by The Library Journal and Publishers Weekly.

You've heard me say it before, but I love the feel and smell of paper and ink. A book you can hold in your hands, whether old or new, is a wondrous thing. That's not to say that e-books aren't great, because they are. They've got their place and lots of folks love them. But the entire bookstore experience is what I'm talking about today. Before it all goes away, like Blockbuster video and Woolworth's, enjoy your time in your nearest independent bookstore. Buy birthday, Christmas, and Mother's Day gifts from your local book merchant. Browse the store, notice the little things, the smells, the feel of the books, the light in the room, burn it into your memory. Because one day, that's all it will be. A memory.

Blessings to you and yours.