I've moved!

Hello everyone!

I've moved to a new blog...please come and say hello.   Please click  HERE.  It will really make me TRULY happy if you follow me there as well!



BIG HUG to all!!!

My attempt to be funny

Oh my...is it really the 13th of January???  I can't believe I haven't blogged for that long!!!

Are you still there?  Hope you are.  I haven't disappeared.  Just really didn't have anything to say since Christmas.

A friend told me awhile ago that I don't post much about my writing.  I do, don't I? I don't?  Really?  Okay, to prove you wrong, I'm posting a writing exercise that I've done with a writer friend quite recently.  I have never tried humour before and she insisted that I should.  She gave me two sentences - one to be used as my beginning and the other as my ending.

Here are the two sentences:

It worked a treat, stopping for tea
The thought made her itch

Here's what I came up with:

My Nanny Knickers

by Len Lambert

It worked a treat, stopping for tea.  But it sure added at least two inches to her waistline.  She starved herself to death for a week to lose weight and now probably gained twice as much as she had lost in the last seven days.

Katie wanted to look good again for Pierce so today she bought six new pairs of G-string in different colours.  She had decided to try one on and now she looked at herself in the mirror.  Not bad, just a few more pounds to lose.  Tummy still bulging.  Hmmm.  Of course, she had just gulped down fish and chips at Lisa’s.  Must lose more tomorrow by not eating besides carrots.  That would do the same trick.

In the drawer, she looked at her old nanny knickers which almost went up to her chest due to their size.  But she must admit, they were comfortable.  She had gathered them altogether so she could throw them away.  That cleared her drawer, making room for the G-strings.  But she needed more so she promised herself to get a few more pairs at lunchtime at work.

           

Katie sniffed and sneezed, this cold she couldn’t shake off for three days now.  She went into the loo with all her old knickers.  She blew her nose in a tissue and sneezed once more.  She looked at her colourful nanny knickers.  Why am I feeling so gloomy over these?  They’re only knickers for Pete’s sake.  After a good few minutes looking at them, she folded them altogether and chucked them in the bin.  Once again, she looked in the mirror and pulled a face at her reflection.  She was never satisfied with her weight.

When she returned into the bedroom, her six-year old daughter Emma sat on the bed, scissors in hand.

           

“Mum, why are you walking around in baby knickers?  Don’t you know they’re way too small for you now?  You know that, don’t you?”

It was only then that Katie realised that she was still in her G-strings and a T-shirt, nothing else.  It took a few more seconds for her to see that Emma was holding scissors!  What was she doing with scissors? 

“They’re too small for you, Mum, but too big for Barbie so I’ve got to make them smaller to fit her.  You don’t mind, Mum, do you?”  Emma turned to look at her mother waiting for an answer but Kate just looked with mouth open, taking in what was happening.  Her new G-strings were cut in small pieces on her bed!

Without saying a word, she ran back to the loo and grabbed the rubbish bin under the sink. But as she crouched low, she felt the sharpness of the strings slice like a knife!  But something was more important.  She pulled her old nanny knickers out of the bin only to find out that they had gone all gooey with all the tissue and her own mucus stuck on each of them. 

“What am I supposed to wear tomorrow?”

She stared at the sickening sight in front of her.             

How am I going to wear these again?

The thought made her itch.

*******

I write MG and women's fiction and have never tried humour.  This was honestly the first time.  And I am open to all kinds of criticism, as long as it is not rude.

Tell me what you think.  Have you tried writing different kinds of genre?  I'm still trying to find my voice in my writing.  I know that soon, I will have to decide what to focus on.

If you aren't published yet, have you found your "voice" in your writing? If you are a published author, did you try different genres before settling on one specific genre?

A Chat with Author Catherine Ryan Hyde

I am so proud to bring to you the author who brought us Pay It Forward, a very popular, heartbreaking and yet so beautiful story of a young boy who attempts to make this world a better place.  I cannot begin to tell you how awesome she is...but without much further ado, I bring to you the amazing Catherine Ryan Hyde.  Pay It Forward is only one of her novels.  please visit her website HERE to know more about her books.

Our Chat

Len:  I’ve seen the film, Pay It Forward, and saw how much it’s grown into a movement and a foundation.  It’s amazing that a book turned into a film continues to help people.  Please can you tell us how you came up with the story idea?

Catherine:  Yes, absolutely. I used to not like this question because it was a long story and I had told it literally hundreds of times. But I found what I think is a good solution. I edited a videotaped speech where I told the story in proper detail, and I posted it on my YouTube channel. So now I’m glad you asked. Because I’ve put a lot of work into my YouTube channel, and there’s a lot out there for my readers to explore. So I’m happy to be able to give a link to that.

The story of my inspiration for the Pay It Forward idea is here: 

http://www.youtube.com/user/cryanhyde#p/u/18/rv2cQws_5cY 

And the channel main page is here: 

http://www.youtube.com/user/cryanhyde 

I have video excerpts for most of the novels, which are little videos I made myself, with excerpts read by me. I have videos from my hiking and travel and other videos that are Pay It Forward related. I hope people will take a look around out there!

L:  You’ve written so many books.  Do you also have a day job?

C:  I do not. Since 1998, I have managed to keep the bills paid with my writing, as well as looking after my retired mom. Although I have to admit that there are times when I am not succeeding in doing so by as comfortable a margin as I might like. But I persevere.

I also have no spouse or children. Which really does explain a big piece of how I manage to get so much done. Nobody ever tugs my sleeve while I’m writing and says, “What’s for dinner?” or “Hey, mom, look at me.” This is not to denigrate spouses and children in any way. But the singular focus helps me to be more prolific.  

L:  Please can you describe to us your writing day?

C:  Well. I can describe two possible days. 

In one, I get up, do 15 minutes of Yoga, check my email, drink a cup of tea, and start writing. Sometime around 2:30 I realize my teeth are not brushed. Sometime around 5:00 I realize I should eat. Having remedied those issues, I get back to work.

On other days, I still do Yoga and tea, but I spend the whole day without writing. If I have a work in progress and I have something worth getting down, I work. If not, I balance the check book and get the oil changed in the car. Because later, when I’m working, I won’t do either of those things.

L:  Are you a plotter or a panster?

C:  Somewhere in between, I think. I like to know where I’m going so I don’t get lost and end up nowhere. But I don’t like to hammer down where I’m going so tightly that I miss an interesting side trip. So I’m forever trying to hit that balance. 

L:  I find your books focus on kindness and love...have you always wanted to write this kind, which I love, of stories?

C:  I think there was a time, a couple of decades ago, where my work was darker and edgier. And then, as I gradually got lighter, so did the stories. 

L:  In ‘When I Found You,’ it was interesting to know about guns  and duck-hunting.  Did you have to interview people about guns and duck-hunting?

C:  Interestingly, though I have never hunted, I know just a little bit about shotguns and hunting because I once took a hunter safety course. Even though I don’t hunt. It’s like this: There was a lottery for permits to hunt mountain lions. Very controversial. There are very few lions, and most people think they should be allowed to live. So a group of us got together and got our hunting licenses, so we could join the lottery. So one of us could hopefully win a permit which we would not use, thus saving one lion. But it all ended rather anticlimactically when the lottery was called off, which I think was for the best.

I did have a friend of mine, who is a hunter, in Pennsylvania, check my work before publication.

L:  In ‘Don’t Let Me Go,’ you wrote about child protective system and social services, was the research challenging to get information that’s in the book? 

C:  Not too much. I was able to learn a lot online. And every case is a little bit different.

L:  Who are your favourite authors?

C:  I read a lot of Young Adult novels (of course I write them as well) and I like Holly Schindler and David Levithan and Jerry Spinelli (who might not be well-known in the UK—I’m not sure).

My favorite adult author is Jonathan Safran Foer.

L:  Favourite books?

C:  My favorite “classics” from when I was young are Flowers for Algernon, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, Of Mice and Men.

More recent favorites are Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close (Jonathan Safran Foer) and The Book Thief (Markus Zusak).

L:  Which writing books would you recommend that would help us writers to improve more our writing?

C:  For those having trouble getting started (or not stalling) I’d recommend Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott. 

In general I don’t think I’d recommend books so much as a good writing (critique) group. I know books feel much safer. Which is the problem. Writers need to get used to hearing feedback. It’s unavoidable.

L:  Your biggest influence?

C:  Nature - particularly the breathtakingly beautiful vistas I see when I hike in the national parks

L:  Greatest weakness?

C:  Potato chips.  Otherwise, I am a fiendishly healthy eater.

L:  Please complete this into a sentence for me:  "When I was a child, I wanted to be...."

C:  A cartoonist.  A songwriter.  An actress.  A film producer.  An animator.  Always something creative.  Just took me a while to find my niche.


*******

It is so nice to get to know you more.  Thank you ever so much for this lovely interview.  It is an honour to have you on my blog.

Friendship Celebration Winners!

I'm announcing the winners today!  But before I give you the results, I'd like to thank the sponsors of the books I'm giving away for their generosity and most of all, their friendship:

Talli Roland

JC Martin

Theresa Milstein

My sincerest thanks wrapped in a big HUG to you all!

Now the winners! 

Lucky (paperback) by Alice Sebold goes to:

L'Aussie Denise

The Breath of Fresh Air (paperback) by Erica James

goes to:

Sharon Mayhew

Build A Man (e-book) by Talli Roland

goes to:

Golden Eagle

The Doll (e-book) by JC Martin goes to:

Gemma

Unidentified (paperback) by Rae Mariz goes to:

Robyn Campbell

Floral Writing Set goes to:

Cortney Pearson

Congratulations!!!

You will receive an e-mail shortly about your prize.  Yayyy! to you all!!!

Wait! Before I say goodbye, have you been to JC Martin's blog?  She's announced the winners to her Birthday Blow-Out!  Here's the link:  JC Martin, Fighter Writer.

Have a fab Sunday, everyone!

Hello You! You're my friend...and I'm celebrating You! ❤

Friendship Give-aways for Thanksgiving!


"...Was my only chance at friendship here destined to be thwarted at every turn?"- Sophie Mercer, Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins

I have met a lot of wonderful people in my life, some of them became very very good friends.  There were, however, many thwarted friendships as well.  There had also been on-line friendships that began well...and ended up really bad.  I'd like to think they are ones that are never meant to be.

Why am I mentioning the thwarted and the unpleasant ones?  Because  I believe life shows us these undesirable things sometimes to let us focus more on the good!  It has made me appreciate more what I have!  This is why, I'm celebrating all the friendships I have in my life!

This message is to thank all of YOU:  Blogger friends, fellow writers and readers out there who have always been there for me.  Whether or not I have something worth reading, you are always there.  I often find myself unable to write anything worthy of posting and yet you keep coming back.  Again and again.

So, please let me tell you.

I heart  ♡♡♡ you all.

I'm celebrating Friendships!! YaY!

This Thanksgiving (in the UK, we don't celebrate Thanksgiving but I'd like to join my my friends in USA and in other parts of the world who are), I'd like to take the opportunity to tell you how grateful I am for each one of you. You know who you are.  I'm so glad that we crossed paths, that we are on-line buddies and that ours is the kind of friendship that has not been thwarted.

As a sign of my appreciation and lurve and with the help and generosity of friends who are donating books (massive thanks!), I'm giving away:

From the Author of Lovely Bones, Alice Sebold.
This is her memoir.

A Breath of Fresh Air by Erica James
A story of finding love again after a tragedy from
a Sunday Times Bestselling Author

An e-copy of Build a Man - donated by the author, 
the Bestselling Novelist Talli Roland
She is also the author of The Hating Game and Watching Willow Watts
Big thanks, Talli!

An e-copy of The Doll by J.C. Martin
A delightfully creepy novellete and a must-read for any horror-lover!
Donated by Author J.C. Martin
Big thanks, J.C.!

A YA dystopian novel by Rae Mariz
This will be sent by mail to one of the winners within the USA only
Big thanks to my friend Theresa Milstein for this book!


and I also have:

A beautiful floral Writing Set with 20 sheets of writing paper and 10 envelopes
plus I'm including some surprise treats inside!

Come on, I know you want them!  It's easy, you can do one, a combination or all of the following:

1.  share this on your Facebook wall - 1 point
2.  share it onTwitter - 1 point
3.  post a link on the side bar of your blog - 2 points
4.  write a blog post about it - 3 points

Please leave me a comment telling me what you've done and which books above you like in order of preference...and don't forget your name and e-mail address so I can let you know if you are one of the winners!

This ends on 30 November 2011, 12 midnight UK Time.  Winners will be announced after 30 Nov.

All giveaways, open internationally.  The Unidentified by Rae Mariz is open within the USA.

I'd love it if you follow me but it is not necessary or a requirement to enter. Sharing the news is to let others know I'm celebrating them, too.  Thank you so much for being here ❤ 

♥♥♥BIG Thanksgiving Hugs!♡♡♡

Don't Let Me Go by Catherine Ryan Hyde

Another book review!  I promise you this is worth your time.  I just loved this book to bits and I really have to share it!

You probably have seen the film, Pay It Forward which stars Kevin Spacey, Helen Hunt and Haley Joel Osment.  The film was based on the novel by Catherine Ryan Hyde.  I had the honour of meeting Catherine on-line after I searched for her on Facebook as soon as I began reading Don't Let Me Go.  Let me tell you, it's not only her book I find amazing, Catherine herself is pure awesomeness!

Without much further ado, let me share with you this astonishing book!

Back cover summary:

Sometimes a child knows better... 


GRACE 
Ten-year-old Grace knows that her mum loves her, but her mum loves drugs too. And there’s only so long Grace can fend off the ‘woman from the county’ who is threatening to put her into care. Her only hope is... 

BILLY 
Grown-man Billy Shine hasn’t been out of his apartment for years. People scare him, and the outside world scares him even more. Day in, day out, he lives a perfectly orchestrated silent life within his four walls. Until now. . . 

THE PLAN 
Grace bursts into Billy’s life with a loud voice and a brave plan to get her mum clean. And it won’t be easy, because they will have to confiscate the one thing her mum holds most dear . . . they will have to kidnap Grace.

Why I like it:

A heartwarming tale of friendship and love.  Love in all forms.  The story depicts the goodness of humanity.  That in each of us lies kindness, no matter who or what we are.

I loved the characters in this story.   It's a feel-good book that would make you wish there was a Book 2.  It's funny, soul-soothing...full of selflessness and compassion.

I am particularly impressed with how the author switched point of view from an adult to a 10-year old girl.  I think it's brilliant!

I am now definitely a fan of Catherine Ryan Hyde!

"So I guess people figure it's not as hard to lose your mother when you never got along anyway.  But they're wrong.  They're dead wrong.  It's always hard to lose your mother.  Always.  If you loved her, if you hated her.  If she smothered you, if she ignored you.  It doesn't matter.  She's your mother.  Your mother.  That's just a very tough bond to break." 

- Jesse, page 233, Don't Let Me Go by Catherine Ryan Hyde

Disclaimer: I own a copy of the book above. This is an honest review and I was not compensated for this.

String Bridge by Jessica Bell

A Book Review and An Interview Part 2

As promised, fellow bloggers, I'm back with Jessica Bell again.  I've got 3 more questions answered by the lovely Jessica! (Thanks again, Jess!).  But before that, let me tell you about her book, String Bridge and why I like it.

Blurb:
Greek cuisine, smog and domestic drudgery was not the life Australian musician, Melody, was expecting when she married a Greek music promoter and settled in Athens, Greece. Keen to play in her new shoes, though, Melody trades her guitar for a 'proper' career and her music for motherhood. That is, until she can bear it no longer and plots a return to the stage--and the person she used to be. However, the obstacles she faces along the way are nothing compared to the tragedy that awaits ...

Why I like it:

Definitely gripping.  It might be a cliche to say it's 'unputdownable' but there isn't any other way to describe it.  Just amazing.

With a storyline so consuming, it felt like being in some sort of a trance reading this book.  I couldn't stop.  It felt like being on a rollercoaster of emotions.  Just when you think Melody is going to make a long-time dream come true, just when everything is all coming together - piece by piece...BANG!  Everything shatters.  How does Melody put all the pieces back together again?  Where does she go?  What is in store for her?

Intense writing.  Outstanding dialogue.  Impressive metaphors.  Jessica Bell writes beautifully.  String Bridge is a powerful novel.

One of my favourite parts (my ARC copy is full of markings!):

"I just want my mother's hugs.  I need soothing maternal hugs without having to explain why.  And even though the hugs are in the form of a gentle voice through a phone, I can still imagine these hugs - the reassuring scent of henna and coconut moisturizer - her smooth skin against my cheek as she kisses and breathes me in."  - Page 164

Before I can reveal too much, I guess I must stop here.  But let me tell you.  This is definitely a MUST-READ.

and below is the rest of the interview. Hope you all enjoy it like I did!

*******
A Chat with Author Jessica Bell, Part Two:
The One where she talked about having children!


Len:  In String Bridge, Melody has a daughter...do you see yourself being a mother yourself in the near future?  Do you dream of having children? 

Jessica:  Oh yes, definitely. I love kids. But I'm really not sure I'm ready, to be honest. My "career" has just started to kick off, and I'm a bit worried about putting myself into Melody's shoes! lol But you know what? I'm not getting any younger, so I think I might just have to bite the bullet. Soon.

Len:  There's a lot of humourous lines/parts in String Bridge that really made me chuckle.  For example on page 165, you wrote:  "Oh, how I'd love to squash someone's head between two trashcan lids.  I could make music at the same time.  Become a member of Stomp."

I think this is hilarious.  Did they naturally come as you wrote the first draft?

Jessica:  Nope. Usually that stuff comes in much later. These things are like extra touches. The icing on the cake, sort of thing.

Len:  On page 213, you wrote (as Melody):  "Somewhere up there is us, a happy us, in some parallel universe, living the way we're supposed to be.  I truly believe that the earth is our practice ground - the place where we are to test things out, to make mistakes, to discover what we believe in, what we are passionate about.  Death is when we move on and go up there - to the real world; to start again, to rectify our mistakes and live a happy and fulfilling existence.  There is no hell.  Earth is hell.  This is where we are allowed to sin.  Up there, is where we no longer want to."

I loved this part.  It is very deep.  I had to stop and think after reading this part...and then I read each word again, slowly, making every word feel like tiny morsels of food in my mouth, savouring them.

Which makes me ask this question:  do you personally believe this?  Do you believe in the life after death?

Jessica:  Firstly can I just say, that what I love about reading is savoring phrases.  When I find things like this, I underline them and mark the page on the inside of the cover.  When I find things I want to underline, the book becomes a prized possession and will never leave my bookshelf, not even into borrowing hands.  That said, I am SO THRILLED, you felt like this about something in MY book!!!  Did you know that that is the only thing I have ever wanted from my readers?  This is the most exciting moment, I have to tell you.  This is what I wanted.  I wanted people to savor my words.  So thank you so much, Len, thank you for savoring them!!!

In answer to your question, yes, I believe this.  I am not a follower of any particular religion, and I don't believe in "God" the way many do.  But I do believe there is something greater than us out there.  And I believe there is so much more than what we experience here.  I truly think the earth is our playground where we grow, learn, pick up our own shit.  But I don't believe that our transitions happen chronologically.  I believe it's possible we have already moved on in some other time frame.  I believe we are whatever and wherever we imagine ourselves to be.

****

Jessica, thank you once again. It's such a pleasure to have you on my blog.  

And...

Congratulations on being on the Bestselling List on Amazon!!!! 


*****


Disclaimer:  I received an ARC of the book above from the publisher for an honest review and I was not compensated for this review.

The Healing Spell by Kimberley Griffiths Little

I waited so long for this book to arrive on my doorstep so that when it finally did, I almost screamed in delight!

Livie, the main character, did not only make me reconnect to my child-self but also helped me come to terms with the things in my past, things I can never change.

The Healing Spell by Kimberley Griffiths Little helped me understand my own fears when I was an eleven year old girl.  Most of all, it made me understand and love my mother more than I already do or did.

This is one of the books that I highly recommend to both children and adults alike.  It's an emotionally powerful book.  It may not have the same effect on you but I can assure you that it is an excellent read.  I am certain you will enjoy every word, every page.  To me, this means I will be reading more books by Ms Little.



Back cover blurb:


Twelve-year-old Livie is living with a secret and it's crushing her. She knows she is responsible for her mother's coma, but she can't tell anyone. It's up to her to find a way to wake her momma up.

Stuck in the middle of three sisters, hiding a forbidden pet alligator, and afraid to disappoint her daddy, whom she loves more than anyone else, Livie struggles to find her place within her own family as she learns about the powers of faith and redemption. Livie's powerful, emotional, and sometimes humorous story will stay with readers long after the last line is read.

Set in the lush bayou of Louisiana, Kimberley Griffiths Little brings Livie's story to life with power and grace.

Disclaimer:  I own a copy of the book 'The Healing Spell.'  This is an honest review and I was not compensated for this.

What are you reading?

Whew.  That was close!  I thought I lost this blog.  *Inhale.  Exhale.*  No, don't blame Blogger.  It wasn't Blogger.  It was me.  I logged in using the wrong email address, hahaha!

Moment of craziness over.

Wow! It's finally October.  Summer is gone!  We had a lot of sunshine over here in England last week and before that...and yes, it was heaven for most people.  Me?  I had heat rash around my neck! Eeeeekkk! But no worries, it's fading away slowly, thank God.

No big news about myself today but guess what?  JUICY NEWS about our pals, Theresa Milstein, Talli Roland, India Drummond and Jessica Bell!


In no particular order:

Juicy News 1:  Author Theresa Milstein's short story "Allured" is included in a YA anthology, Fangtales - and it is NOW AVAILABLE on Barnes and Noble and Amazon.com.  Check it out!

She's got a blog tour promoting Fangtales - go visit her BLOG to find out more!

Theresa is also doing a guest post right here, yes, on this blog, on the 27th October.  Please don't forget the date and see us in two weeks' time.

Juicy News 2:  Another prolific writer and talented author, Talli Roland, is self-publishing her latest novel, Build a Man!  I can't wait to get my copy!  What are you waiting for?  Check it out!  Click HERE.

Juicy News 3:  Let's not forget to mention that Author India Drummond custom designed the cover for Build a Man! Look at that! How amazing!  I'm so impressed!  So if you have a book that you'd like custom artwork for - you know who to call.

Juicy News 4:  Author Jessica Bell's  String Bridge, is coming out in November!  Woot, Jess!!!!  Only a month away!  I've read this book and I so loved it.  I will be posting a review on this one soon.

Just want to give you the heads up, blog friends!  I will see you again after a few days hopefully.  Anyway, I will be over at your blogs!  *HUGS*

Interview with Author Amber Argyle

Thank you to all who have left a comment on my last post.  Yes, that was a review of the enthralling novel, Witch Song.  Today, I bring to you the author behind it, Amber Argyle!

What was your job before you became a writer?


The same job I have now - a full time mom.  I love being at home with my kids (most of the time).  One of my favorite parts is reading them stories.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?


Spare time?  What's that?  LOL  With three kids, cleaning, cooking, writing, editing, and marketing; I really don't have much spare time. Although I have been doing Zumba aerobics.  I'm terrible.  Really, really terrible.  But it's so much fun.  I love it when you get an amazing workout and you don't even realize it.

If I had a spare time, I'd scrapbook and play basketball.

Did you struggle to get published?  Can you tell us your experience on getting published?

Long, long story. I’ll try to give the short version. Being an author meant so much to me that I didn’t pursue it for a while for fear of failing. After the birth of my very colicky baby, I desperately needed some sort of stress release and started writing January of ‘06. I was offered a publishing contract for my first book (Priestess Prophecy) fall of June of ’08. I turned that contract down because the terms were rotten. Shortly after, I found an agent who subbed Priestess. I broke up with my agent after about a year. I shelved Priestess and started circulating Witch Song. Rhemalda Publishing offered me a contract August of 2010. I’m so grateful/lucky to have such a fantastic publisher.

Where’s your favourite place to write - is it inside your own home or do you have to go out somewhere - into the woods, by the beach or in a cafe - to find the inspiration?

I’m trying to imagine myself writing in a café with my three kids tipping over the displays and running out into the road. It’s making me very tired. ;) I write at home, in my family room so I can keep an eye on my chillins.

Let’s talk about your debut novel, Witch Song – how long ago was it when you began to write this novel?

I started writing Witch Song summer of ’07. I finished the first draft in a month. I edited it pretty steadily for another 6 months. Then I worked on it off and on when the muse struck.

Can you tell us about Witch Song?  What is it about?

My 14 year old protagonist, Brusenna, is the last Witch left. All the others are being held captive. And without the Witches to control nature, seasons are crossing hardened boundaries, seeds rot in the soil, and the heavens are sealed shut. If Brusenna doesn’t find and free the others soon, there might not be anything left to save.  

Did you have to research to write the story?

There’s an epic sea battle near the middle of the book, so I had to do a lot of research on cannons, ships, and sailing. I also had to do a lot of research on tropical climates.

Are you working on another novel right now?

I’m editing Daughter of Winter, which should come out next year (finger’s crossed). I’m trying to fit in the first draft of The Forbidden Forest, but I just can’t find the time.

What would you like to read? Any favourite books?  Favourite authors?

I absolutely love Shannon Hale and Kristin Cashore. Let’s face it, the girls can write an write well. I also like Brandon Mull, Tolkien, David Farland, Jessica Day George, Clare B Dunkle, Jennifer Roberson, Suzanne Collins, Clare B Dunkle, Aprilynne Pike, and Robin McKinley. I could probably go on forever.

Do you think any of your favourite authors has influenced your writing?

Absolutely. David Farland has taught me so much about the craft of writing. When I get stuck, I read a great book and that usually propels my writing into high gear.

Do you have any tips to share with aspiring writers out there on how to get published?

Worry more about becoming a great writer than about getting published—because being published is a byproduct of great writing. Also, improving your writing is something you can control. Being published is not (unless of course you self pub).

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Thank you very much, Amber.  It’s been a pleasure to have you on my blog. 

The Third Writers' Platform Building Campaign

Have you heard about the third Writers' Platform Building Campaign?  If you haven't, this is to let you know that Rachael Harrie of Rach Writes is running it from 22 August to 31 October 2011.  Please check it out.

For more details, here's the link to Rachel's blog:  Rach Writes

See you there!

Title or Cover?

I had a lovely chat tonight with a good friend who is both a writer and editor.  One of the things we discussed was what makes one pick up a book, what makes one take a second look and eventually walk down to the till to buy it?

Is it the title?  A book must have an eye-catching title, mustn't it? Something that captivates perhaps?

Is it the cover? Does it have to have an enthralling photo?  Does the colour matter?

I must admit that what catches my eye most of the time is the title, cover is only second.  Most of time the cover doesn't really matter to me as long as I like the summary on the back cover.  But the title must get my attention first.

This, for me, is a perfect title and cover.

My judgement is not always right of course.  I do make a mistake of getting a book that I think is good and end up not being able to finish it because the first 3 chapters aren't interesting enough for me.  But then again, I must mention that there were cases when I chose the right books! Take for example Diane Chamberlain's Breaking the Silence (see above).  I loved the title.  I loved the cover.  And it did not disappoint!  It was a story that I both enjoyed and loved. (I've posted a book review on this one, click HERE.) Would you say it was a perfect package?  I'd say it was.  Maybe for my taste.  It all depends on one's taste at the end of the day, doesn't it?

The cover is just so heavenly. Ahhh!

How about a good cover?  The perfect example here is Sister by Rosamund Lupton.  I did not choose it for the title.  I got it because of the fascinating cover! It just looks so immaculate to me.  I mean I could just put that cover in a frame and I've got a beautiful winter scene on my desk.  The story is even better!

It is a lot easier to say 'oh I like that title'  or 'oh, I'll get that, the cover intrigues me' when you are a reader but when you are the one writing the story and it is your own manuscript you are finding a title for, it is a different kettle of fish.  There are words that don't sound catching to me, words that for others would probably sound interesting.

I'm currently working on a novel which I originally called 'When I Close my Eyes.'  It began as a short story which I submitted to a writing competition (which sadly did not win), now it's turned into a novel.  My writer/editor friend suggested the new title, Voice of Silence.  When I first saw her email and I read it out loud, it just sounded so perfect.  It felt right.  But that's just me.  I don't know if it sounds right to other people.

So I will have to ask these questions:

As a reader, do you look for an eye-catching title to make you get the book?  


As a writer, how do you decide on the title of your manuscript?  Do you follow your instinct?  Does it have to feel right?  


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My Book Give-away!

I will be announcing who gets the book, Starring in the Movie of my Life by Laurel Osterkamp in the next few days so please stay tuned! :)

You still have a chance to enter, please check it out by clicking HERE.

Tiny Dancer and Fascinating Females

I've got to share some exciting news!!!

One - My short story, Discovering the Gift, will be included in a Tiny Dancer anthology, published by Literary Mix Tapes.  I am very thrilled to tell you that two lovely ladies are also writing for it, Theresa Milstein and Jessica Bell.  Theresa told me about the anthology and I'm really very chuffed that I got included!

And two - My non-fiction piece, Moments, is going to be included in a book project, Fascinating Females.  And do you know that Michelle Alba-Lim is still looking for participants for this book project?  Yes, she still is! For those who are interested, please see details below.  Thank you, Theresa for helping spread the word.

I'm now inviting anyone who has a fascinating story or article to share, to send it to fascinatingfemales@yahoo.com.

You may write it as a mini-biography, a snapshot, or a vignette. You can write about your adventures (or misadventures) in Mensa, Rotary, Toastmasters, the Red Cross, WOVI, ASTD, SHRM, IAC, the military, or any organization/s (or movements) you belong to. You can write about your life as a wife, a mom, a sister, a girlfriend, a daughter, a student, etc., or you can write about a single defining moment in your life, and so on.

Note that fascination, like beauty, is in the eye of the beholder, so what you may consider as a humdrum, boring life may be fascinating for others.

You will retain full copyright to whatever gets published, and can have your articles published again anywhere.

Articles can be anywhere from 1-4 pages of letter size (8-1/2 x 11), double-spaced, font 12, Times New Roman.

You may write in first person or third person (whichever you prefer). You may opt to use a pseudonym if you wish.

Please email me at fascinatingfemales@yahoo.com if you have any questions or suggestions.

Looking forward to seeing some fascinating articles in my inbox very soon!

Michelle Alba-Lim

Michelle is also on Facebook.  

Thank you all and have a wonderful Friday!!! 

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I have a book give-away!

Please don't miss my book giveaway - Starring in the Movie of my Life by Laurel Osterkamp, please click here to see my post.  The book is a finalist for Chick-Lit and International Book Awards (Women's Fiction and Young Adult Fiction).  To see more details, please visit Laurel's website and Blog.

A Chat with Author Laurel Osterkamp

I know I've been quiet again for the past week or so.  Been busy again. I hope all of my blogger friends in the USA had a happy fourth of July! And to my friends in Canada, hope you all had an exciting celebration of Canada Day!!!

As promised, I am back with another blog interview with the lovely author, Laurel Osterkamp.  Check it out how she attempted to get published by a mainstream publisher and how she grew impatient but ended up happy to be independently publishing her own books.  I've enjoyed this interview and learned a lot from Laurel.  I hope you enjoy it, too, and pick a thing or two!

Hello, Laurel, welcome to my blog! I am very pleased to have you with me today! 

Len: What was your job before you became a writer?

Laurel Osterkamp (LO) - Actually, my primary job right now is as a high school teacher. But my dream is to one day make enough money from writing that I can focus only on that.

Do you remember the first writing piece you’ve written?

LO - When I was little I wanted to be an actress, so I wrote a lot of plays. I remember writing something about three girls at boarding school. I’m sure it was God-awful!

What was your first published work? (Was it a short story, an essay, a poem?)

LO - Well, maybe this doesn’t count, but my writing obsession began when the comedy sketches I wrote were performed. I used to do comedy-improvisation, and I began to enjoy writing for the groups I performed with more than actually performing with them. Then I did an adaptation of GlenGarryGlenRoss, called GwenHairyGwenGloss, and it was set in a beauty parlor with an all female cast. It got a lot of attention, and it was loads of fun!

What was your first published novel?

LO - Following My Toes

(Find out more about Laurel's books on her Blog - http://laurelosterkamp.blogspot.com/)

Did you struggle to get published? Can you tell us your experience on getting published?

LO - I made an attempt to get published by a mainstream publisher, but when it didn’t work out right away I grew impatient. I also had an agent agree to take me on, only to never hear from her again! Now I’m happy to be independently published, because the industry is changing so quickly with the emergence of e-readers. So much more is possible now, and it’s nice be in control of certain decisions, like pricing. 

Do you want it quiet when you write or do you prefer some kind of music in the background to help you concentrate?

LO - I love to listen to music. I often make itune playlists to coincide with the theme or story of whatever I’m working on.

(Thank you, Laurel, for sharing with us a photo of your work space!)

Let’s talk about your latest novel, Starring in the Movie of my Life – how long ago was it when you began to write this novel?

LO - Gosh – I guess it’s been about five years!

Can you tell us about Starring in the Movie of my Life?  What is it about?

LO - To put it simply, it’s about two very different women who want to be saved by the same man. Ultimately, they have to learn how to save themselves.

Did you have to research to write the story?

LO - I read some articles by men about how women propelled them to cheat on their significant other. That’s how I crafted Melody’s “five step plan” to lure Nate away from Samantha.

How did you create your characters?  Are they real people?

LO - I usually start by giving them a heroic quality, like being extremely compassionate or a survivor. Sometimes I’ll think of friends or family to help inspire these characters, but ultimately they’re always fictional.

Do you see yourself in any of your characters in this particular novel you’ve written?

LO - Not so much. I realized when I was done writing Starring in the Movie of My Life that Melody and Samantha are total opposites… the ying to each other’s yang. I share qualities with both of them, but I’m also very different from each of them too.

Do you have a favourite character in Starring in the Movie of my Life?

LO - I love Samantha and Melody equally. Even though a lot of readers think Melody is a bad person, I respect her strength and intelligence. So choosing which one I like better would be like choosing between my children. Ha ha. That’s silly, isn’t it?

(Len: I agree, Laurel.  It is.)

Are you working on any other projects right now?  If so, can you tell us about them?

LO - I’m working on a novella that will hopefully be available soon. It’s about a girl/woman who loves political campaigns. Four different occasions in her life are visited: the prom, a wedding, a funeral, and a baby shower. It’s called Campaign Promises.

(Len:  Sounds another interesting story, Laurel!)

Do you have any tips to share with aspiring writers out there on how to get published?

LO - Only this: Remember that the industry is changing more and more every day. There is no easy route, and there are pros and cons to whichever path you decide to take. Figure out which path is right for you, and don’t give up when you’re confronted with obstacles, because you will be!

Thank you very much, Laurel.  It’s been a pleasure to have you on my blog. Do you have anything else to add?

LO - Len, thanks so much for having me!

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It has been a pleasure, Laurel.  Thank you for your time.  To all my writer/blogger friends, I invite you all to visit Laurel's Blog - please click HERE.

She also has a blog tour!  You can check all participating bloggers on Chicklit Plus Blog Tours promoting her latest novel, Starring in the Movie of my Life, don't miss it, please click HERE.