Scene 12; Act 30: Guest Author Jacquitta A McManus & Labyrinth's Door

With the end of 2010 in sight, I present yet another fine author who is out on her Virtual Book Tour.

Guest Author Jacquitta A McManus

&

Labyrinth's Door

Creating memorable characters is one of the hardest challenges when writing a story. And like a memorable character, a great adventure can make readers’ morn the end of a novel or series. But I also would argue that creating a great adventure itself could be just as hard.

But what makes a great adventure?

I personally love to write adventure stories. It’s the not knowing around the corner that makes me turn the page and stay up late to read … It’s what gets my heart pumping with each word. The wonder and the enchantment is what I seek when I sit down to read but as a storyteller making a great adventure isn’t just creating a memorable character and picking the theme and plot. It takes much more than that.

In my search for what makes a great adventure, I found that it takes memorable characters, an exciting adventure in a believable world, with twists and turns. It takes scenes that fit together in such a way that weaves you in and out of obstacles and through the emotions of the characters, while still revealing a world that your reader’s have never seen.

Reader’s sit down with adventure stories knowing that they are about to go on an adventure, so it’s not the adventure that captivates them … it’s the journey of the adventure. It’s the preparation, the friendships and the obstacles. It’s the wins and the losses. It’s the sum of the adventure they are seeking. They want someone to care about and something to fear as they journey through the adventure.

And it’s that balance I strive for as I create my stories.

To find out more about Jacquitta A McManus’s adventure in storytelling and her answers to the third of the three questions she asked herself as she started down her road of storytelling, follow her as she continues on her virtual book tour.

You can find her on Facebook, Twitter, GoodReads, and her blog: Journey of a Storyteller.

She would love to hear from you. If you would like to order any of her books visit WorldsToDiscover.com or find it on Amazon.com.

Happy Holidays for Family of Oz!!!

With the Chrismahannahkwanzika season now fully upon us, I am most pleased to report that progress on completing Princess Ozma's Royal Command is being made.

Family of Oz has now completed final edits and is going through formatting and such prior to sending it out to the printer.

It has been a long 2 years since Her Majesty commanded me to tell the story of Her new Royal Magician.

Now, with the upcoming publication of Family of Oz on schedule for its January 27th, 2011 premier at the 80th Annual Magi-Fest, I;the Royal Liaison to Princess Ozma, can see the end in sight and breath a welcome sigh of relief.

I am particularly pleased with the cover, which was done by my good friend and stunning artist, Dennis Anfuso.

As always... Par Ardua Ad Alta

James C. Wallace II
Royal Liaison to Princess Ozma

Once More, I Have Achieved My Goal For Nanowrimo!

This was the second year for me to participate in Nanowrimo, a month-long frenzy of writing with then pure goal of writing 50,000 words or more in the 30-day month of November.

Last year, I achieved that goal and wrote Shadow Demon of Oz. This year, I focused on a series of short stories and such as my effort towards winning Nanowrimo.

As of today, November 29, 2010, I made it to 52,784 words!!!



Now, the editing begins amongst the holidays and such...

Another Loss Of Friends

Anyone who has been reading my blog for any length of time knows that I have jones for the auction and all things auctionee, so to speak.

It's not the stuff that I find at these gatherings, nor the thrill of a winning bid, or even the fun of the Ringman, which I do on a regular basis.

No... it's the people I meet there, time and time again.

They bring a unique perspective and a passion that shows up in the oddest ways and is eerily similar to the passion that Oz imbues in folk.

In 4 days, I have lost two dear friends from the auction and it saddens me greatly.

John was one whom I knew from Prairie Creek Auctions in Vigo county, Indiana. He was in his mid-50's, suffered from Diabetes and had one leg. I loved him dearly and we had a running gag about him leaving his leg at home. His wife, who worked at KFC, would sometimes bring me a small container of mashed potatoes and gravy.

Hmmm.. Them's good mashed potatoes and gravy!!!

Betty was a kindly little old lady in her early 90's who attended Shadow Auction Barn here in town. She would come in a wheelchair and had a little slot in the seating across from the snack bar where she sat and bid on anything with roses on it... and fake plants.

That woman loved fake plants. Her front porch was a jungle of plastic leaves, flowers and branches.

If you've read my second book, Shadow Demon of Oz, you'll recognize her as one of the characters at the Umbra Auction Barn.

Both will be missed greatly by family, friends (myself included), and anyone who ever came across their paths.

The Shifting Sands welcome another pair of souls into Oz...

James C. Wallace II

Once More, The Wizard of Oz Shows Up At The Auction!

The other day, I found another Wizard of Oz book from the mid-50's that included this wonderful illustration.

The other nice thing about this particular edition of the Wizard of Oz was that it was an unabridged edition, meaning that the Queen of the Field Mice, the Kalidahs, China Country and all the other unique aspects of Oz were not cut out for the sake of brevity and cost-cutting.

Revision: Serendipity intervened today and directed me towards Bill Campbell's The Oz Enthusiast blog site where he gave some great information about this particular volume.

Her Majesty, Princess Ozma is very pleased indeed!!!

James C. Wallace II
Royal Liaison to Princess Ozma

The Madness Of Nanwrimo Begins Anew!!!

Once more, I have begun the daunting task of participating in Nanowrimo;

a month-long marathon writing session designed to expel the demons of our minds onto reams of paper, although in today's culture, that would be virtual paper.

Nonetheless, I take up once more the challenge and take the virtual pen to virtual paper in an attempt to make my dream realities for all to see...

and hopefully enjoy!

Already, the monsters of my brain reach out to speak to me and task me with making them show themselves!!!!

Another Munchkin crosses the Shifting Sands!

The Lullaby League of Oz lost one of its own last month (Sept. 24) with the passing of Olga C. Nardone, the smallest member of the three girls who danced for Dorothy in welcoming her to Munchkin City.

From the files of Wikipedia, we find the following information:

Olga C. Nardone (1919-2010) was an actress and one of the last surviving Munchkins from the 1939 film The Wizard of Oz. She was known as "Little Olga" and "Princess Olga" and was one of the smallest of the Wizard of Oz Munchkins, standing at just 3 foot 4 inches tall. The fact that she had done ballet solos in vaudeville helped get her the part.

I had always thought of her as one of the young children who were brought in to supplement the cast and do the very delicate job of dancing her ballet routine to welcome Dorothy. I didn't realize that she was, in fact, one of the 124 adult pituitary midgets which were hired as Munchkins.

It turns out that, like a few of the Munchkins, she chose a very private life and never embraced the life of Oz here in the Great Outside.

It's a shame but we respect her choice and wish her well on her journey across the Shifting Sands to Oz... and to reunite with the Royal Historian.


James C. Wallace II
Royal Liaison to Princess Ozma

It's been a week since the Chesterton Wizard of Oz Festival and this has been the first opportunity I've had to post a blog entry about the outstanding time I had in the Land of Oz.

As many of you will no doubt notice, 'ol James cut his hair. Given that it's been nearly a hundred degrees every day all summer here in the Land of the Hoosiers, I reached a point where I couldn't take it anymore.

How you ladies deal with long hair in oppressive heat is beyond me.

Anyway, back to Oz.

The weekend of September 17-19 was highlighted on my calander for months as I was really looking forward to this fine festival which is only a few hours from my home.

Last year was the first year I had attended this festival and was, in fact, the very first Oz festival I had ever attended.

As you can tell, day one was highlighted by rain for about half the day. A bit of a bummer but I met many people that day who were very supportive of my writing and book sales of Shadow Demon of Oz went very well.

Here is one of the most unique and imaginative costumes I have ever seen at an Oz festival.

It's the Bucket of Water that Dorothy used to destroy the Wicked Witch of the West.

She called it the 'Weapon of Witch Destruction' and she seemed to be the only one who wasn't annoyed by the rain.

On Sunday, things were looking much better. The characters here were about to go on a tour of the grounds when the Wicked Witch of the West, who had been motionless for several minutes while children cautiously approached her, let out a cackle like none I have ever heard before. It scared everyone in earshot and the kids were especially frightened by her laugh.

As you can see, all of Oz was having a wonderful time.

Here, we see that the Tin man has grown a bit and found a nice place for a special beverage. I hope he doesn't engage in drinking and chopping.

The winner of the Hat Contest makes an appearance at my stall to show off a wonderful Professor Marvel Wagon Hat. Very inventive and unique.

... and of course, there were aspiring Munchkins around every corner. It's amazing how much Oz makes people so happy.


Scraps, the Patchwork Girl decided to make an appearance this year and spent her time with Dennis Anfuso in his stall, which happened to be right next to mine. And if that isn't enough Oz for you, Jack Pumpkinhead and the Sawhorse showed up as well.

Who knew Jack could drive a Hoveround, although technically, it doesn't hover!

I also had the great pleasure of meeting Rick Ewigleben and Todd Bates just a few stalls down from me. They are wonderful people who made me feel very welcome. I look forward to seeing them at every opportunity in the Land of Oz.


It's amazing how a little nice weather really brings out the crowds. There were loads of people everywhere and many unique visions of Oz to be seen.

Such is the devotion to Oz that many people had tattoos of Oz. Some were very small and hardly visible... and then some were like this one. Now, I'm not a tattoo kinda guy, so don't expect me to get one, but boy, when some people get one, they don't go half-hearted at it, do they???

Of course, there were the wonderful ambassadors of Oz, who we know as the Munchkins of Oz.

Jerry Marin, the Lollipop Guild Munchkin was in wonderful spirits today and had a smile that could not be wiped off if you had used a steel-wool pad.

Karl Slover, the First Trumpeter was also present and happy as always.

... and of course, there was Margarette Pellegrini, the Flower-Pot Munchkin.

Just as in Chittenango, these fine and wonderful representatives from the Land of Oz made the festival more special than normal. Their spirit, enthusiasm and love of Oz made everyone in the room fall in love with them, without even trying.

Princess Ozma has often said that no finer ambassadors could have been chosen for the task of representing Her Majesty and the World of Oz.

It seems Dorothy has grown up a bit. But wait, what's that she's carrying? Why, it's a Longaberger Basket. Apparently, Dorothy has gotten more expensive tastes in baskets.

As the day wound down, we see Glinda the Good Witch and Ruler of the South; Quadling Country paying a visit to fellow author, Julienne La Fleur and checking out her book.

The crowds were fantastic and it was a joy to see Oz is still loved by so many people, young and old alike.

As we bid farewell to another year of Oz in Chesterton, I look forward to next year, when the Royal Magician of Oz Trilogy will be complete with the publication of Family of Oz.

It has been a long two years since Her Majesty commanded me to tell of Her new Royal Magician and his adventures in Oz. Since that day, I have met the most wonderful people and had the best time anyone could possibly have.

Finally, I make my way down the road of yellow brick and back home to the Land of the Hoosiers, where my wonderful wife awaits me with a steaming bowl of Potato Soup and all the love and support any man could ask for.

My report to Her Majesty, Princes Ozma; Royal Sovereign and Ruler of Oz will be very appreciative of all the folks in Chesterton, with a special thank-you to Machelle Blount, Celeste Hertz and every yellow-shirted volunteer that helped make our time in Oz well worth the trip.

Par Ardua Ad Alta!!!

James C. Wallace II
Royal Liaison to Princess Ozma

I'm off to see the Wizard!

In a matter of hours, I'll find my self in the Land of Oz.

http://www.ozfestivalchesterton.com/

Wish me luck as I cross the Shifting Sands and find the Emerald City!!!

Frank Zappa Spinning In His Grave!

An odd analogy, I know... but I did something today that I normally never do.

I censored myself and removed a blog post.

Now, I can't recall the last time I did that, though I have once or twice.

I had done my research, I was confident of my posting and was intrigued when a colleague made a valid point against my actions.

As I have a great deal of respect this colleagues opinion, I listened (read) with an open mind and found this person's argument to be valid and fair.

Hence, I censored myself today.

My idol of free speech and copyright, Frank Zappa would be spinning in his grave right now. '
My apologies Frank, for the misstep.

Frank Zappa on Crossfire
WARNING: This video contains harsh, vulgar language. Young children and sensistive people should not listen to this recording.

Please pardon the frank language, but Frank was being frank that day. (hey, that was a pun!)

Scene 6; Act 3: Guest Author Diane Griffin; Author of Everything You Wanted to Know About the Security Clearance Process, But Are Afraid To Ask

The heat has diminished somewhat, but not by much! Good thing I sits in front of a fan, thumbing through the Virtual Book Tour and wondering who our next guest is. Turns out its:

Diane Griffin; Author of Everything You Wanted to Know About the Security Clearance Process, But Are Afraid To Ask: Professional Guidance for Obtaining and Maintaining a Security Clearance.
Who knew that visitors to the Land of Oz needed a security clearance? Apparently Ms. Griffin did.

She also wins first prize for the longest book title I have hosted to date.

Just kidding, of course, but now on to the business at hand. I present to you our next Virtual Book Tour Author; Diane Griffin.

Bio: Diane Griffin, President and owner of Security First & Associates, says her motivation for writing Everything You Wanted to Know About the Security Clearance Process, But Are Afraid To Ask: Professional Guidance for Obtaining and Maintaining a Security Clearance came from the more than two decades of people she has assisted, both in her role as a private security contractor, and as the head of personnel or security within major governmental contractors, in finding their way through the complicated security clearance chain. Diane, is nationally recognized as an expert in the design and delivery of security throughout the intelligence community and has worked with a variety of clients throughout the US Government and industry. Diane is a past membership chairperson and current secretary of the National Classification Management Society (NCMS) and is active in several professional security organizations.

Diane received her B.S. degree in Human Resource Manager from Colorado Christian Univ. and MBA degree in Management from University of Phoenix. Author of several articles on Security and she volunteers with shelters, collecting used Cell phones for Women of Domestic Violence. In addition, volunteers with the foster care program, creating a program called Bags & Bears for Foster care, collecting pack backs and teddy bears for children in the foster care program. Diane is single again and has one child.

Synopsis: If you have plenty of time to click around through myriad government websites and the patience to cut through red tape and make sense of confusing bureaucratic talk, you may be able to find some of the answers to your questions about the security clearance process,” Griffin says. “Chances are, however, that you will still be left with some of your questions unanswered, because there are some questions that the government just doesn’t address. So, unless you know someone who is well acquainted with the process from a first-hand perspective, good luck.

“What I sought to do was compile all of these answers into one easy-to-read compendium of advice and guidance, giving my readers signposts along the way to assist them in navigating through the clearance process. I believe I’ve come up with a volume that will greatly help its users, and being able to assist folks in working through this process is extremely gratifying to me.”

GROUNDBREAKING SECURITY CLEARANCE EBOOK A ONE-STOP KNOWLEDGEBASE FOR THOSE CONFUSED BY THE SECURITY CLEARANCE PROCESS

Blog:

Today’s economy is one of the most difficult times in recent history to find work, and many people are not even making use of their college degrees as related to employment! The number of people unemployed is staggering, and the overall lasting impact on our nation as a whole is, I believe, still not completely understood. There is hope, however.

President Obama plans on hiring 270,000 people for federal jobs. Many of those positions will require a security clearance. These jobs will become available in varying fields, and encompass all types of skills sets. The war on cyber crime has been declared, but our country is facing a shortage of computer professional holding valid security clearances,

Federal jobs, as I am sure you know, provide an opportunity for a solid career path complete with its own set of benefits and rewards that are becoming less and less common as small business America is forced to spend less and less money on these things for its employees in a tough economy. As I mentioned, most of the federal jobs that will be available for your students will require a security clearance of some type. For those with the skills to obtain a high-paying or advanced position, higher and higher levels of security clearances will be needed. This is nothing new, but with the changes that have taken place since the Patriot Act was enforced, the process is quite complex. Many people are discouraged by this and end up taking jobs elsewhere as a result when they could be quite successful if they could just get past that initial phase of getting the security clearance.

For the past 20 years, I have been walking people through this process and helping them get on the right path to security and success. My company, Security First and Associates, has assisted individuals, government contractors, and entire companies in getting the security clearances they needed in order to get the job, be awarded that contract, or be able to continue working as a vendor to the federal government.

Everything You Need to Know About the Security Clearance Process, But Are Afraid to Ask is now available for $19.95, from my website, amazon & lulu.

Amazon: Everything You Need To Know About The Security Clearance Process But Are Afraid To Ask

Lulu: Everything You Need To Know About The Security Clearance Process But Are Afraid To Ask

Security First Associates

Promote Your Page Too

Reviews:

5.0 out of 5 stars Actionable guidance in 65 pages, June 14, 2010 By L. Evans "collaborative-action" (Pacific NW) - This review is from: Everything You Need To Know About The Security Clearance Process But Are Afraid To Ask (Kindle Edition) When I read an instructional book, I'm looking for help. That means it needs to be easy to understand and formatted in a way to quickly find what I'm looking for. Diane Griffin's book, "Everything you need to know about the security clearance process, but are afraid to ask" does this and more. She even adds a bit of humor that may address some people's real fears about the security clearance process. ... all in a fully-packed 65 pages of actionable instruction. Well done! -Lori Leavitt Evans, Performance & Risk Management Expert Abrige Corp. ([...]) & C-Secure Systems ([...])

5.0 out of 5 stars Comprehensive Guide On The Security Clearance Process- Highly Recommended!,June 12, 2010 By CFH "chillnhill" (Blue Ridge Summit, PA USA) - See all my reviews (TOP 50 REVIEWER) This review is from: Everything You Need To Know About The Security Clearance Process But Are Afraid To Ask (Kindle Edition) "Everything You Need To Know About The Security Clearance Process But Are Afraid To Ask" is an excellent resource for individuals and companies that need to understand the often intimidating process of obtaining a security clearance. Back in the early 1990s I went through the Security Clearance process to get access to DoE and FAA facilities in order to work on Data Networks and truly wish that Diane Griffin's comprehensive book was availible to me at that time! The book is easy to read, leaving out unnecessary jargon, and covers all of the questions that an applicant will have and many that I didn't think of on my own. The inclusion of sample forms was very helpful but most importantly, the chapter containing the "odd" questions Diane has been asked will likely put a few minds to rest about what will and won't be a considered an impediment to obtaining a clearance. Highly Recommended! CFH

So close... yet so far away!

Having completed chapter 40 last night, it would seem that my 40 chapter goal is being exceeded... by at least 4 more chapters.

Not quite my intention but the story dictates the length and the story is really progressing now.

Ad hoc, ad loc, quid pro quo... So little time, so much to know!

Nearing the Finish Line!

On the Summer Solstice, I set myself to the task of writing Family of Oz. I had been awaiting the muse for some time and it was during the evening of the Summer Solstice when the muse finally chose to strike.

Since then, I have been actively involved in the writing, along with several other projects tertiary to this one.

I usually average a chapter a night, though this book has gone a bit slower than both Magician of Oz and Shadow Demon of Oz. It has now been 41 days and I've completed 36 chapters. At just a hair over 60,000 words so far, I'm very pleased at my progress so far, though I never thought Family of Oz would wind up longer than Shadow Demon of Oz.

With the end in sight, I have finally brought together all the elements that had been developed over the last two books.

Now, it's time to wrap things up and complete Her Majesty's Royal Command.

Soon, the fun really begins!

A howl of a good time: Unofficial world record set in TH

A howl of a good time: Unofficial world record set in TH

Howl Yea! For Child Safety in the Wabash Valley‏!

A Guinness Book of World Records Attempt for the Most Number of People Simultaneously Howling at the Full Moon.

The Center for Public Service and Community Engagement at Indiana State University, in conjunction with C.H.A.N.C.E.S. for Youth of Terre Haute, Ryves Youth Center at Etling Hall and the Terre Haute Children’s Museum are co-sponsoring Howl Yea! For Child Safety in the Wabash Valley on July 26th, 2010 from 8:30-10:00pm at the Indiana State University Fountain area of Dede Plaza located next to the Hulman Memorial Student Union in the center of campus.

This event is designed to promote the local non-profit organizations which serve the youth of the Wabash Valley and bring about further awareness of their programs and facilities, as well as highlighting issues related to child safety and awareness throughout the Wabash Valley.

The centerpiece of this event features a Guinness Book of World Records Sanctioned Attempt for the Most Number of People Simultaneously Howling at the Full Moon.

The current record stands at 250 people and the goal of the Howl Yea! For Child Safety in the Wabash Valley is to break this record and be officially recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records Organization.

The record-breaking event is free of charge and the public is highly encouraged to attend and be a part of an official world record.

Registration for the event begins promptly at 8:30pm and is a required part of the official program. Registration will occur on sight at the ISU Fountain area of Dede Plaza located next to the Hulman Memorial Student Union in the center of campus. In order to be considered as an official participant in the Guinness Book of World Records Sanctioned Attempt for the Most Number of People Simultaneously Howling at the Full Moon, all participants must be registered prior to the attempt.

The Guinness Book of World Records Sanctioned Attempt for the Most Number of People Simultaneously Howling at the Full Moon will begin at10:00pm and will last only a few minutes.

C.H.A.N.C.E.S. for Youth of Terre Haute, Ryves Youth Center at Etling Hall and the Terre Haute Children’s Museum, along with the Center for Public Service and Community Engagement at Indiana State University will have representatives available to discuss their programs and mission of service for the youth of the Wabash Valley.

For more information regarding the Howl Yea! For Child Safety in the Wabash Valley event, including the Guinness Book of World Records Sanctioned Attempt for the Most Number of People Simultaneously Howling at the Full Moon, please contact James C. Wallace II, Event Organizer at howlyea2010@yahoo.com or 812.841.0886.

Scene 5; Act 2: Guest Author Trish Silver; Author of When I Remember Love

The Virtual Book Tour approaches its next stop, which just so happens to be located adjacent to the oven that appears to be set on 450 degrees. So make sure the rack is on the center pins, the timer is set and the book is totally basted.

I present our next author; Trish Silver;

Author of When I Remember Love

I was born and raised in Whitefish Bay, WI. I went to college at the University of Cincinnati. I moved to Los Angeles in the turbulent 1960's and met my husband Ed. We have been happily married for 41 years and have two sons, Matthew and David. We also have two grandchildren, Jack and Sarah.

Book Info: When I Remember Love is my first book. It is a contemporary romance novel about a rock superstar, Aidan, who realized fame by winning an American Idol type of television reality competition. He falls in love at first sight with the beautiful Jenna and together they navigate through the rocky road fame presented them.

You can learn all about it on my website: http://trishsilver.com.

It can be purchased on my site, Amazon.com, and BarnesandNoble.com, and SmashWords.com.

There is a Kindle version.

Who would have thought that I would ever write a romance novel? I am a big fan of American Idol and after watching the show one night, my story unfolded in a dream. It was like watching a movie; at that moment, I knew that someday my book would become a film. I could see the look on the face of my handsome pop star, Aidan, as he saw his beautiful Jenna for the first time. Jenna, star struck whispered in my ear," He’s the one!" As the story came to me vividly scene by scene, I became a fan of my characters.

Personally, I wanted to help Jenna build Jenna's House, a home for the homeless. Also, I wanted my characters to overcome the many obstacles that sudden fame bestowed upon them. It’s not like the usual romance novel; I took a chance and wrote outside the box. It was my intention that my readers look upon married love in its purest form without cheating or abuse of any kind.

I wanted my readers to hear the music that Aidan sang to his audience and to Jenna and was lucky enough to become part of a brilliant songwriting team. You may hear it on my website: http://trishsilver.com. And you can get a preview of the story by watching the book trailer video on my site and hear one of our original songs sung in the background too. If you like a good love story like I do, you will adore this book.

Renowned Wabash Valley author James C. Wallace II will be appearing at the Rockville Farmer's Market in downtown Rockville, Indiana to discuss and autograph his latest children's book, Shadow Demon of Oz.

Mr. Wallace has been commissioned by Princess Ozma, Ruler and Royal Sovereign of Oz to tell her story of her newest Royal Magician of Oz, young Jamie Diggs, the great grandson of the original Wizard of Oz, O.Z. Diggs.

The Royal Magician of Oz Trilogy features Magician of Oz and Shadow Demon of Oz, both of which are currently available through Amazon.com and Barnesandnoble.com.

Family of Oz, the third and final volume of the trilogy is due out in early 2011.

Scene 3; Act 4: Guest Author April Blanding; Author of Diamonds in the Rough

The heat is less oppressive, but not by much! Good thing I sits in front of a fan, thumbing through the Virtual Book Tour and wondering who our next guest is.

Turns out its: April Blanding; Author of Diamonds in the Rough.




Now, somebody pass me a cold soda and turn the fan up higher.




“Jumping In”

Although I am only a first time author, I have gotten a slew of questions about the publishing industry and process. I don’t consider myself an expert, but I do have some knowledge about the business. However, I am still learning. Since this is my first guest blog post, I figured I would use the space to discuss some of the things I’ve learned and give some tips to those who are looking to “jump into” this business. As you read, please remember that some of this is fact and some is a matter of opinion. Also, no two authors will have the same experience in this business so their views will be different.


Research Publishing Companies

I consider this as my first rule of thumb. It is also the first thing I tell people who show interest in joining this business. It is very important that you research the company that you want to join. If you don’t, you may go in expecting more than what you are going to get in return. It helps to ask other authors what they like or dislike about the company so you can get an idea of what you’re getting yourself into. You still have to keep in mind though that everyone’s experience is different. Whereas one author may be content with the company, another author may be marking off the days when his/her contract is up. You may not even know what is considered a “good” publishing company until you have something to compare it to.


Another suggestion that I give is to submit your manuscript to a company that specializes in your genre. For example, you do not want to submit a science fiction novel to a company that only publishes romance. More than likely, the company is not going to be interested since it is not their focus. If you review the submission guidelines, most companies state specifically what they are looking for (sometimes even down to the page count!). Make sure to follow the guidelines! It is your first step to getting your manuscript reviewed!


Know Your Budget

I would highly suggest that you choose your publishing company based off your budget. Even if your company does not charge you a fee for their services, you will still need money for marketing purposes and travel. Be prepared for it!


If you want to self-publish, be prepared to handle almost all of the expenses. Yes, you keep creative control over your work, but you are also responsible for the costs. This can include cover design, editing, etc, depending on the package that you purchase.


Remember this: it takes money to make money!


Keep it One Hundred

Since it is your work and your dream, you are naturally going to put in one hundred percent. You want everything to be perfect even down to the period at the end of the sentence. Going into the business, you expect to get the same thing in return. Well, the truth is, it doesn’t always happen. I have met a slew of authors and have heard some horror stories. Your vision for your work may be to inspire while someone else’s is to simply make money. Some companies do not care if your book has errors. They will publish it in a heartbeat without a second thought.


Out of all the tips I’ve given, the most important one is this: Do not ever give up. If you have a dream, take control to make it a reality. The only person who can stop you is YOU!

Diamond is the Rough can be purchased form the following retailers:

barnesandnoble.com

amazon.com

booksamillion.com

passionatewriterpublishing.com

April L. Blanding/ Vogue
Simply Vogue- http://www.simplyvogue.net/
faith...hope...trust

Howl Yea! For Child Safety in the Wabash Valley‏

A Guinness Book of World Records Attempt for the Most Number of People Simultaneously Howling at the Full Moon.

The Center for Public Service and Community Engagement at Indiana State University, in conjunction with C.H.A.N.C.E.S. for Youth of Terre Haute, Ryves Youth Center at Etling Hall and the Terre Haute Children’s Museum are co-sponsoring Howl Yea! For Child Safety in the Wabash Valley on July 26^th, 2010 from 8:30-10:30pm at the Indiana State University Fountain area of Dede Plaza located next to the Hulman Memorial Student Union in the center of campus.

This event is designed to promote the local non-profit organizations which serve the youth of the Wabash Valley and bring about further awareness of their programs and facilities, as well as highlighting issues related to child safety and awareness throughout the Wabash Valley.

The centerpiece of this event features a Guinness Book of World Records Sanctioned Attempt for the Most Number of People Simultaneously Howling at the Full Moon.

The current record stands at 250 people and the goal of the Howl Yea! For Child Safety in the Wabash Valley is to break this record and be officially recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records Organization.

The record-breaking event is free of charge and the public is highly encouraged to attend and be a part of an official world record.

Registration for the event begins promptly at 8:30pm and is a required part of the official program. Registration will occur on sight at the ISU Fountain area of Dede Plaza located next to the Hulman Memorial Student Union in the center of campus. In order to be considered as an official participant in the Guinness Book of World Records Sanctioned Attempt for the Most Number of People Simultaneously Howling at the Full Moon, all participants must be registered prior to the attempt.

The Guinness Book of World Records Sanctioned Attempt for the Most Number of People Simultaneously Howling at the Full Moon will begin between 10:15-10:30pm and will last only a few minutes.

C.H.A.N.C.E.S. for Youth of Terre Haute, Ryves Youth Center at Etling Hall and the Terre Haute Children’s Museum, along with the Center for Public Service and Community Engagement at Indiana State University will have representatives available to discuss their programs and mission of service for the youth of the Wabash Valley.

For more information regarding the Howl Yea! For Child Safety in the Wabash Valley event, including the Guinness Book of World Records Sanctioned Attempt for the Most Number of People Simultaneously Howling at the Full Moon, please contact James C. Wallace II, Event Organizer at howlyea2010@yahoo.com or 812.841.0886.

Scene 2; Act 1: Guest Author Susan Hanniford Crowley; Author of

Two days later and it's still HOT!!! So hot that you could melt a vampire, or so I've heard.

Our next guest author on the Virtual Book Tour just might have a thing or two to say about that.

So, without further ado, (and who needs more ados?), I present Guest Author Susan Hanniford Crowley; Author of: WHEN LOVE SURVIVES
THE STORMY LOVE LIFE OF LAURA CORDELAIS
A VAMPIRE FOR CHRISTMAS
&VAMPIRE IN THE BASEMENT - Coming Soon!

Summer Nights, Vampire Bites

By Susan Hanniford Crowley (totally fang in cheek)

Tall, dark-haired, dark-eyed vampire David Hilliard walks in and takes a seat. A minute later, blonde Laura Cordelais comes in and sits in his lap.

"I apologize for Susan's tardiness. I hope you don't mind that she sent Laura and me ahead. So this is Oz."

"At least it's not scorching hot, like Manhattan," said Laura.

"I didn't think vampires were affected by the heat?" Susan walks in and sits in a chair.

"We're not."

Laura winced. "It's just when it's hot, all the New Yorkers are out doing things more than normally. There are humans everywhere."

"That's true. It's very hard to do what we do, when there are human everywhere," explained David.

"What do you do?"

The two just grinned.
Susan enjoyed prodding a little. "Let's talk about the Arnhem Knights."

When David shows fangs, it's more than a little frightening. Laura gets up and waves her hand, an arc of lightning shimmering around her.

"David's in a mood. When there are so many humans out and about, the uncivilized vampires go on a spree. The goal of the Arnhem Society is to civilize the vampires of the city. The purpose of the Arnhem Knights is to protect humans from death at the hands of vampires."

"We also give aid to supernaturals in trouble," he added.

"So this week's been bad?"

"Oh, God, yes. But not as bad as when that vampire movie came out. People were standing in lines outside of theaters, around the building, and vampires were si

zing them up for a late night snack." Laura sighed.

Susan shivered. She was in one of those lines.

"So any advice for the readers of Oz?"

"Yes," said David, "Stay inside. Watch tv. Read books."

"Like the Vampires in Manhattan series," added Laura.

WHEN LOVE SURVIVES is about Regina, a half leprechaun/half elf who discovers her magic on the day the World Trade Center is attacked. Gregor (shapeshifer) saves her by pulling her into a coffee shop minutes before the calamity, and they fall in love during their efforts as rescue workers. This story is also a sneak peak into the supernatural diversity of the city.

It’s available at http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-w

henlovesurvives-362921-143.html

and at fine ebooks stores everywhere.

For a review, see: http://wickedreadingsbytawania.blogspot.com/2010/05/review-when-love-survives-by-susan.html

THE STORMY LOVE LIFE OF LAURA CORDELAIS is about Laura, a Telkhine, a rare race of supernaturals who control storms, and the tall, handsome, dark-haired, and mysterious vampire David Hilliard. While Laura is falling from the Brooklyn Bridge, David is begging God to take pity on his loneliness. He gets a vision of a woman falling. What he doesn’t know is that saving Laura plunges them both into an underworld of voodoo and sorcery, from which no one escapes. Does he love her enough to die for her? This book is filled with strange supernaturals the world has forgotten and a hot passion between two lovers who are fighting to keep together. A vampire is not worthy of a Telkhine. Does Laura really believe that?

http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-thestormylovelifeo

flauracordelais-374695-139.html

It’s also available in Kindle at Amazon Books. http://www.amazon.com/Stormy-Love-Laura-Cordelais-ebook/dp/B00318D5VY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2&s=digital-text&qid=1278215109&sr=1-1

We’re also waiting for the date of its print release.

A VAMPIRE FOR CHRISTMAS is about dashing vampire and Arnhem Knight Trevor Stenwood. He’s found the woman of his dreams but she’s marked for death by demons. She has him so awestruck that he can’t find the words to talk to Georgia Blake. Georgia thinks he is a stalker. How can he protect her life if she’s afraid of him? A warm, sizzling tale reminding us that love comes in the most unexpected way.

Georgia and Trevor’s ebook can be purchased at http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-avampireforchristmas-387184-139.html

Coming soon from Tease Publishing LLC: A new ebook in the series, one with a humorous tone—VAMPIRE IN THE BASEMENT.

I will be participating in the Authors After Dark Romance Unlimited Convention in Secaucus, New Jersey, September 16-19. There's still time to register. There will be tons of fun events, panels, workshops, parties, a charity auction, and giveaways. Here's the link:

http://authorsafterdark.blogspot.com/p/aad-confrence-info.html

For those that are attending Authors After Dark Romance Unlimited Convention, come up to me and say “I saw you on the Magician of Oz blog” and I will give you a small gift, while my supply lasts.

For more information about Susan Hanniford Crowley, her vampires and other supernaturals, visit:

Website: http://www.susanhannifordcrowley.com
Where love burns eternal!
Romance Blog: http://nightsofpassion.wordpress.com

Twitter: http://twitter.com/SHCrowley

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/people/Susan-Hanniford-Crowley/629298868

Tease Publishing: http://www.teasepublishingllc.com/authors.htm

Thank you.