Your Name: Lillian A. Brummet
Where you are from and where are you now?
Lillian: Originally, I am from California (USA) – However my family moved often so I’ve also grown up in Nevada (USA) and BC (Canada). I even worked up north in the Artic circle for a half a year when I was 18. Now, at 38 years of age, I reside in a sleepy little city of 6,000 in the South-Western area of BC with my husband, Dave - whom I've been with for 18 years. BC is the western most province of Canada and sits above the US states of Washington and Idaho.
How did you get started writing?
Lillian: I have always written for pleasure and as a healing tool, but I began writing as a career in 1999 with the column Trash Talk. I wanted to leave a lasting, positive legacy behind and felt that writing was the tool for me to do this. This continues to be the drive behind my various passions and endeavors.
What do you do when you are not writing?
Lillian: Dave and I purchased our very own home, our first home, nearly 3 summer seasons ago. It was a rental for about 20 years and as such needed a lot of tender loving care, which we provide with every spare moment (and every spare dollar) we have. I am a gardener at heart and I can often be found playing in the dirt. In between these things I am a wife that juggles caring for the house and yard with a drum teaching business that my husband and I operate. Besides writing, I am also a book reviewer and a radio show host. Dave and I produce 2 radio shows, in fact, through the Blogtalk Radio Station.
What would readers like to know about you?
Lillian: Readers tend to want to know what I’ll be doing next. I just completed a cookbook project for our families and friends to enjoy in CD format. Since then, I took a bit of a break on large writing projects for a while but have plans on returning to another project that was started about 20 years ago by my mother. This is an organic gardening guide that offers harvesting tips and a planting calendar for those who are interested in organic gardening using biodynamic, intensive planting methods. I’m not sure where this project will take us, but it is something I’d like to complete and help my mother realize her dream of sharing her knowledge too. Since the release of Purple Snowflake Marketing I've written approximately 24 poems; most of these have already been published in several magazines and read live on radio many times. Just this summer, one of the poems from Towards Understanding was converted into a song by the band Grooveyard for their recently released CD: Place in Time (www.grooveyard.ca). That was a wonderful experience, for sure!
What inspired your first book?
Lillian: Ironically, it was a client from a business I used to run that inspired our first book Trash Talk. She was telling me how afraid she was of being seen taking in the returnable bottles or going to thrift stores - even only to buy Halloween costumes – since she was of the upper middle class. Yet when blue box recycling began in her neighborhood, it was a really big deal to make sure that her items were put on the curb so that she would be “seen” as participating. This got me to thinking about false pride and the importance of helping people realize that living consciously is not always about saving a buck or two, it is about the kind of legacy we want to leave behind when our time is done. So I started with an article on the subject and quickly realized that this was a column in the making - which it proved to be. Trash Talk column ran internationally in a variety of publications and was translated into Spanish and French languages between 1999 and early 2007 – when the last article of this series was written. The articles continue to be picked up and used by various publications. Anyway, as time went on Dave and I realized that this column just was not large enough to allow us to share all of the information we had – that was the spark of inspiration for the book, Trash Talk.
How many books have you written?
Four books in total, but only 3 are available for the public. We are currently looking at the potential for e-commerce on our site for the family cookbook that I completed last winter and possibly for an upcoming gardening book project as well. We haven’t decided yet.
What are the titles of your books and what genres are they?
Lillian: Ok, the other two published books are Towards Understanding and Purple Snowflake Marketing. Towards Understanding is a collection of nonfiction poems; Purple Snowflake Marketing is a guide for developing marketing plans for written pieces (books, articles, etc).
How do you decide on that topic or genre? Why are you specially qualified to write about this topic?
Lillian: Well, a writing teacher once told us that writers should focus on topics they know well or have a genuine curiosity about. So that is where we started and how we continue to work with today.
How do you manage to keep yourself focused and on track when you’re writing a book?
Lillian: A healthy dose of self-discipline! People will also find that they may have to train their family and friends so that their writing time is respected.
Do you write to make money, for the love of writing or both?
Lillian: I tend to write for the pleasure of it although it has grown to be a tool that I use to leave a positive legacy with.
What are some of the marketing techniques you have used? Which were the most successful?
Lillian: Personally I feel any opportunity to build name recognition is an opportunity not to be missed. Every day I put in at least 2-6 hours into some aspect of marketing the book. The Internet has proven to be a powerful tool where an immense amount of information can be found from newsletters, publishers, forums and authors. Every on-line communication we have is an opportunity to plug our book by simply attaching an auto signature. We developed promotional materials (flyers, mini-posters, large posters, bookmarks, and labels) and, of course, galleys and sample packages for editors and booksellers. Most importantly, we had a great website built.
Having a plan of action for every project is vital. Every project should have an outline starting from the title through to the end. There should also be a market plan laid out. Who are you marketing to? How you are going about it? What will you do first? These are the most important tools of a writer.
Most people think of a writing career being one where you have lots of leisure time and creating with words. On the contrary, most of the time is spent marketing and organizing projects. For instance, we might write an article and query it to a market. That market may take a few days to get back to us, but it may also be as long as a year before we hear from them. In the meantime, that article is idle and we do not get paid until after it is published - often several weeks after it is published. Therefore, a writer must have many pieces of their work at various stages of writing and marketing at one time. They need to know where each piece is and its status, at a glance. We use the Excel program to take care of this.
The market plan that we use for our books will take us years to complete and is constantly being amended with new information, new contacts to broach. That is normal, actually. A writer must spend much of their time promoting the book for years after publication in order to keep sales happening until the contract with the publisher is finished. So the more work an author has ahead of them in their marketing plan, the better. Unfortunately, promotion and writing time are unpaid hours.
What are some unique methods of marketing you have used?
Lillian: Free promotional filler articles, book review projects and media interviews are the most
effective frugal marketing tools we have found to date.
Do you sell through a website? If so, what’s the address? If not, why not?
Lillian: We don’t currently sell our books ourselves – we let those in the industry do that for us. We are already overwhelmed with marketing and writing and do not want to take on the additional headaches that come with shipping and handling, lost orders, filling orders and all the taxes and international border issues that may arise from this. We are currently considering, as I mentioned earlier today, of doing e-commerce on our site in the near future with simple “buy now” buttons. The incentive to do this soon is there because of my husband's level 1 hand drum CD and the Grooveyard CD. We are excited about looking into this, but are a little apprehensive as well, because taking on yet another project like this means committing even more time to learn new things. It will, once again, boil down to finding that healthy balance.
Where can people order your books?
Lillian: Virtually anywhere. Trash Talk and Towards Understanding are paperback books printed on 50% recycled paper and are available to order through online and traditional retailers around the world. The books are stocked in numerous library systems in the UK, Canada and the US as well. My personal favorite online retailer is Barnes & Nobles due to their exceptional prices, shipping and speed of delivery - so I do recommend that online retailer.
Purple Snowflake Marketing is currently available as an e-book and as such on can purchase it at places like:
www.twilighttimesbooks.com
www.booklocker.com
www.fictionwise.com
However, in late 2008 Purple Snowflake Marketing will be released as a second edition with 200 more resources and marketing opportunities for writers to access. I am told it will be available in both hard and soft cover format and will be accompanied with a CD so that readers can still access the convenience of live links.
What was the most successful thing you did to promote your books?
Lillian: Without a doubt the most successful thing I did was to build a strong name recognition foundation to work from. With that to work with, doors opened much more easily for us whereever we went. Without it, our marketing efforts would have been much less effective because even if people took the time to listen to or read the exposure we received; they would have had a difficult time finding us online or anywhere else.
What sparks your creativity? Any tips to help others spark their own creativity?
Lillian: Reading other people’s work is a huge inspiration to me on a creative level. I am
constantly learning from others with every word I read.
What do you think motivates people to become authors? What motivated you to get into this unusual industry?
Lillian: The notoriety is probably a big draw for most people - people treat you differently when you are a published author. However the reason behind our books, articles and even our 2 radio shows as well, is to inspire others to live more conscious, proactive and positive lifestyles. In doing so we hope to create a ripple effect of good works or good deeds across the planet.
Tell me about the most unusual things you have done to promote any books.
Lillian: I really enjoy doing crafts, though I rarely have the leisure time (she laughs) and I put this to good use. I reuse breakfast cereal boxes and maps or wrapping paper and create bookmark displays for various applications. I then take these around during our travels and keep an eye out for a friendly counter or bulletin board. I found tremendous success through laundry facilities near high tourist traffic zones in town and also at a popular restaurant that has a display for maps in the front. These were very effective methods to reach those tourists coming through our small city. Because the displays are pretty and attract the eye, they are very effective. I have different styles for different applications and would consider that prior to taking a display in. For instance, if the store serves a predominately male clientele, I take in a display made from a map or wrapping paper with images of antiques. Travelers would enjoy the map design, while families and women would be more attracted to floral and ribbon decorations.
If a potential reader thinks that your book wouldn't interest them, what would you say to convince them to buy?
The answer would vary depending on the book and the targeted audience. For Trash Talk it might be “save money, reduce waste and green the planet”. For Towards Understanding it might be “an emotional journey of finding one’s self and pursuing their passion”. For Purple Snowflake Marketing, I might say “learn how to create a frugal and effective marketing plan for every piece you write”.
This interview was done in conjunction with Nikki Leigh, author of the Book Promo 101 series and owner of Promo 101 Virtual Blog Tours. For more information, visit – www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm and www.virtualblogtour.blogspot.com
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Winton Churchill Talks About Promoting "Email Marketing"
You have been invited to share your promotional experience with others.
Your Name: Winton Churchill
1. Where you are from and where are you now?
I run a consulting business helping executives and owners of small to medium size businesses grow their business. That usually takes the form of systematizing their sales process to eliminate the chaos I see in about 80% of all businesses of this size.
Your Name: Winton Churchill
1. Where you are from and where are you now?
Originally from Miami, Florida and now a vagabond...my business interests mean that I travel quite a bit, my company is based in Los Angeles and my wife and I have a place in Huatulco, Mexico that we consider home base.
2. How did you get started writing?
I came to writing through the back door... through the door of long copy direct marketing and advertising.
3. What do you do when you are not writing?
I run a consulting business helping executives and owners of small to medium size businesses grow their business. That usually takes the form of systematizing their sales process to eliminate the chaos I see in about 80% of all businesses of this size.
4. What would readers like to know about you?
That would have to be my name...I get questions about my name every single day!... and yes, that is my real name...there is kind of a long story about my name and rather than include it here I’ll give your readers this link so they can read the full story if they have an interest: http://www.churchillmethod.com/name.html
5. What inspired your first book?
I do a lot of speaking to small business owners on the topic of growing their business. In particular, my talk about email marketing has been very popular. I got a lot of appreciation for demystifying the concepts and putting them into plain language most business owners and executives could understand. When audience members asked me if I could recommend a book on the topic, I couldn’t find one that explained this stuff in business terms for the non-technical person...so I wrote it!
6. How many books have you written?
This is my first.
8. Why are you specially qualified to write about this topic?
There are a lot of good books about email out there but the complex sales cycle gets neglected. The things that work for selling toiletries through an online catalog site are completely wrong for say an engineering consulting firm that has to build trust and credibility before their prospects buy.
I have been using email in the complex sales cycle for over 20 years...long before most of your readers even had email address. I had the good fortune to work for companies like Apple before they were a household name, and other great companies like Oracle, Sun Microsystems and Spinnaker to name a few. I am very measurement oriented and have seen thousand of testing results in thousands of marketing campaigns and I know what works in certain situations and what doesn’t.
9. How do you manage to keep yourself focused and on track when you’re writing a book?
I have my talks and seminars transcribed and do all my editing from there. I get in to a rhythm with that and it helps me maintain focus.
10. Do you write to make money, for the love of writing or both?
I wrote this book in part because it establishes me as an authority on the topic. Of the people the do the kind of work I do, not one in a thousand has written a book about it...so it definitely elevates one’s work in the eyes of the market.
The other thought I had is that there are so many people who could benefit from email marketing (and aren’t now using it effectively) that I wanted to say something to the business people beyond those who hear me speak.
12. What are some unique methods of marketing you have used? Which were the most successful?
The book is published by MorganJames Publishing and they have done a number of the traditional things like a press release and programs with the booksellers.
The blog tour is one of the most unique and most successful. I could clearly see how effective it is when, on the third day of the tour my book hit the Amazon best seller list.
13. Do you sell through a website? If so, what’s the address? If not, why not?
I sell my company’s products through my main website ( http://www.churchillmethod.com/onlinestore.html ). The book is distributed by Ingram and available at all the usual online locations including Amazon.
14. Where can people order your books?
I have a domain set up that takes you directly to the Amazon sales page:
15. What format are your books – e-book, print, audio etc?
Today, both hardback and paperback.
16. Will you write more books?
Yes, I have one on the works with my wife. It is a book on Winston Churchill’s leadership secrets for college students.
18. What does the future hold for you and your books?
I will continue to do both consulting and writing. I find that working in the field means I can bring a different quality to the work. I find that so many authors on this topic don’t actually work in the field...they interview people that do and write from there. That is one approach but I like to bring the most current knowledge to my readers.
19. What was the most successful thing you did to promote your books?
Has to be the blog tour and that has spawned a number of other marketing opportunities.
20. What was the least successful thing you did to promote your books?
Press release...didn’t see a lot of activity from that.
22. What makes this book special to you?
I had my first email address in 1980...so I was using email a good 10-15 years before most of the people on the planet even knew what it was. I also knew how effective it could be to build relationships and trust. I am glad to be able to bring that expertise to a large audience with this book.
23. What sort of comments have you gotten about the content of the book?
Feedback has been great...the most common theme is that readers (mostly business owners or executives) say they finally see how they can use email without being branded as a spammer or marketing pest.
24. What makes this a book that other people MUST read and WHY?
Prospects want to get to know the businesses they buy from even more than in the past. Companies are starting to recognize that the quality of the LONG TERM relationships they have makes for better sales, more profit and a better run company. Email is the best tool to build, strengthen and extend that relationship. Spam is a big problem today and many have turned away from email marketing because they incorrectly confuse it with spam. As spam prevention improves email will continue to get even more effective if done right.
25. What people NEED to read this book and WHY?
Anyone who touches sales in a company must understand this medium. In our consulting practice we typically work with the CEO, VP marketing or VP sales to design and implement effective email strategies. As your competitors begin to understand and use email, they have a discernable edge over your business if you don’t have a similar program. They can reach prospects more frequently, for less money and with greater impact than you can. If they pull ahead of you it will be very difficult for you to recover that lost ground.
We also find a lot of sales executives reading this book. Their companies frequently have “glossy brochure” sent out as email campaigns that are largely ineffective. They want sales leads and to build sales relationships. By applying some of the principles in this book they can improve the speed with which they build relationships and close deals.
26. What sparks your creativity? Any tips to help others spark their own
creativity?
My creativity is sparked by the challenge of helping a client take their product or service and turn it into a successful marketing campaign. We find those campaigns can run for months to years because it really speaks to their prospects in a way that their competitors don’t.
When I am wrestling with a challenge like this, I like to immerse myself in as much data as I can dredge up. I talk to customers, past clients, prospects, internal people and when I am drowning in information for a day or 2 I begin to get tiny insights about some aspect of the problem. The insights build into a solution almost the way you would put together a puzzle.
27. What do you think motivates people to become authors? What motivated you to get into this unusual industry?
I think that every author (myself included) believes they have a message or insight that is not being heard.
28. Tell me about the most unusual things you have done to promote any books?
It was accidental...I was traveling to Chicago sitting in an aisle seat. I was preparing to give a talk and wanted to refer to something in my book. To make sure I quoted the information exactly as I put it in the book, I whipped out the book and started flipping through the pages to find my reference. The guy sitting on the window saw the book and asked me about it. I told him I was the author. Turns out that he owns a business and wanted my consulting advice.
29. If a potential reader thinks that your book wouldn't interest them, what would you say to convince them to buy? I'm thinking something better than "Its the greatest book ever." Give me something more specific :)
If they have any responsibility for a business this is an essential process to understand. To me this is like the early days of the telephone, automobile or electric light. Many people thought it would be a passing fad. It’s not. In fact it is looking more like the aorta of the business in 5 years...and if your aorta isn’t up to snuff your business will almost certainly perish.
30. Why does the topic of your book interest you? Why would it interest potential readers? Give us a hook to reel in new readers.
Email marketing completely changes the game. It is a nearly free way to communicate with people...that’s the good news. The bad news...if you don’t communicate well they may not give you a second chance.
If you have to form a relationship with your prospects before they buy, you have a complex sale. Most of what you know about selling won’t work in this new environment. Read this book and you clearly see how to make those changes.
For more information, visit www.churchillmethod.com. Visit www.virtualblogtour.blogspot.com for the most up to date information. His full tour schedule is posted at http://virtualblogtour.blogspot.com/2008/06/winton-churchill-email-marketing-for.html. Winton Churchill is offering a wealth of free gifts for every person that purchases his book Email Marketing. Visit www.churchillmethod.com/bookbonus for full details about how to download all of these free gifts.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Susan Wingate Talks About Her Book Promotion
You have been invited to share your promotional experience with others.
Your Name: Susan Wingate
1. Where you are from and where are you now?
Your Name: Susan Wingate
1. Where you are from and where are you now?
I’m from Phoenix, Arizona and now live in Washington State.
2. How did you get started writing?
My dad was a writer and I always toyed with it when I was young but then started writing seriously about 13 years ago with poetry.
3. What do you do when you are not writing?
Well, lately, I’ve been taking care of a sick kitty, Twinkle. She’s been diagnosed with lymphoma and it’s been fully on my mind. She needs subcutaneous fluids twice a day, a steroid injection twice a day, three tube-feedings and several doses of water throughout the day. She’s really ill and I’m holding out on the hope that we can get her well enough to go through a series of chemo-therapy. But, we’ll see.
When I’m not busy with her, I read and clean and do the things most people do when they’re off work.
4. What would readers like to know about you?
I’m an avid fan of animals.
5. What inspired your first book?
My first book was inspired by an argument with my first husband. I was driving a motor home nearly 1,900 miles en route to where I live today and developed the story line over the time I spent on the road.
6. How many books have you written?
I’ve written four total – one short story compilation and three novels.
7. What are the titles of your books and what genres are they?
“Ravings of a Mad Gentlewoman: A Bold Collection of Writing” is the title of my short story compilation.
“Of the Law” is my first novel and it’s a murder mystery with a strong female antagonist.
“Bobby’s Diner” is my second novel (which has just been released) and it falls into the women’s fiction genre.
“The Last Maharajan” is my third novel and I’m currently shopping it around to publishers and agents.
8. How do you decide on that topic or genre? Why are you specially qualified to write about this topic?
Well, for “Of the Law” I had to do a ton of research. I have a stack of reading material about four feet high for the research – books and information I pulled off of the internet. It prepared me to handle the details of forensics and crime scene investigation. That was a blast. Plus, I met some pretty high level people from the FBI and interviewed them.
For “Bobby’s Diner” and “The Last Maharajan” my credentials (that make me specially qualified) are that I’m a woman. I think I know a thing or two about being a woman, a married woman at that and one who has been through the crushing experience of a divorce.
As for how I decide on a genre, well, usually ideas come bubbling up to the surface and if one feels enticing, then I write about it. But, lately, I’m finding I enjoy writing about women in conflict, especially conflict between mothers and daughters. In fact, I’m beginning a memoir that is interwoven through a fiction story.
9. How do you manage to keep yourself focused and on track when you’re writing a book?
I’ve been writing full-time since February of 2004. That’s when I quit my day job! At first, I bounced around from one thing to the other – from working at the computer to cleaning toilets. Really! I cleaned a lot after I quit my day job – cooked too. But, after about six months I settled in.
I get up every morning, Mondays through Friday and sometimes on Saturday, and get to work.
When I’m writing a book, I edit my work from the previous day and then begin writing new work after that.
10. Do you write to make money, for the love of writing or both?
Well, at first it was all about the burning need to get an idea onto paper. Thirteen years ago I never imagined I’d be writing for a living but here we are. So, things changed for me. I went from not making money with my writing to making money with my writing. But, the one constant has been that burning desire to write. I don’t foresee that ever changing.
11. What are some traditional methods of marketing you have used? Which were the most successful?
Well, I use press releases when anything wonderful happens in my career and I’ve advertised. The press releases are far more successful and cost nothing to nothing much, whereas, advertising is expensive and the dollars spent usually produce nothing much. Also, hiring a publicist (like you, Nikki) is always money well spent. Publicists know markets and the people who make decisions to get your book out. I ALWAYS feel the money spent was worth every dollar when I’ve used publicists.
12. What are some unique methods of marketing you have used? Which were the most successful?
Well, I guess because of the newness of internet marketing I can consider it unique but that’s changing rapidly.
13. Do you sell through a website? If so, what’s the address? If not, why not?
Yes, I have my books available through websites. A reader can buy my first two books through my website, www.susanwingate.com, and my blog, www.susanwingate.blogspot.com, and through Amazon.com. “Bobby’s Diner” is available through the publisher, ebooksonthe.net and also Amazon.com, FictionWise.com and Mobipocket.com. But, there’s a link through my website and blog to get to all of my books.
14. Where can people order your books?
Well, darn, I answered this question too soon!
15. What format are your books – e-book, print, audio etc?
“Ravings” is in print and “Of the Law” is print and ebook. “Bobby’s Diner” has been released in ebook and is expected to go into print later in 2009.
16. Will you write more books?
Of course! It’s my passion.
17. What do you have in the works now?
Right now, I’m working on two books and two screenplays.
18. What does the future hold for you and your books?
Well, I believe it holds the brightest of futures. Everyday my books get in front of more readers. That’s the most rewarding part of what I do.
19. What was the most successful thing you did to promote your books?
Hire Nikki Leigh – oh, wait, that’s you! But, seriously, I feel this is the most successful method of marketing.
20. What was the least successful thing you did to promote your books?
Do the publicity on my own.
21. Tell us about your most recent book.
“Bobby’s Diner” is my latest release and it’s a story of a women in search of what she hopes to find, family and home.
22. What makes this book special to you?
Other than the fact that I wrote it? Well, it’s special because the characters really grabbed hold of me while I was writing it. Plus, I’ve pitted two really good characters against each other. Neither one is what I would call a traditional antagonist.
23. What sort of comments have you gotten about the content of the book?
My ex-husband told me he got teary reading it. That’s good, I thought. Someone else told me that it felt a bit like Flagg’s “Fried Green Tomatoes.” That’s good too.
24. What makes this a book that other people MUST read and WHY?
It’s a story of growth and tolerance which, when I read the news, seems sadly lacking these days.
25. What people NEED to read this book and WHY?
Women. Any woman who has been through the break-up of a love relationship. Any woman who has lost a husband whether through divorce or death.
26. What sparks your creativity? Any tips to help others spark their own
creativity?
When I’m involved in a story I like to flex my creative muscles by writing a few poems before beginning my prose. Writing poetry helps me cement ideas with specific words and phrases. Once I feel my creative juices have been properly stimulated, I begin working on my story du jour.
But, when I feel like I want to stand away from my computer and look at it from a distance, I’ll take my dogs for a walk on the beach. It gets me out of my head. It frees my flow and plus it’s good for me and makes my boys happy.
27. What do you think motivates people to become authors? What motivated you to get into this unusual industry?
I think people write because they need something to say, to communicate something. And, I also wonder if putting pen to paper and then reading what you’ve written doesn’t feed itself a little. Once I read something I’ve written I want to write more and more and more. It’s an addiction.
The industry came along with the writing for me, quite frankly. If I’d been involved in the industry first, the business side of writing, I’m not sure I would’ve become a writer.
28. Tell me about the most unusual things you have done to promote any books?
Once I wanted to teach a workshop at a writing conference and part of doing so was to list all the books I’d written. Well, at the time, I hadn’t a single one. So, I made one up. I self-published my collection, “Ravings,” and sent off my title before the conference. When I showed up to teach I had a box-full!
29. If a potential reader thinks that your book wouldn't interest them, what would you say to convince them to buy? I'm thinking something better than "Its the greatest book ever." Give me something more specific :)
You don’t think sex and violence is interesting? And, if they don’t like that:
You don’t think family conflict is interesting? I’d really have to know the person before I tried to sway them, one way or the other. But, honestly, “Bobby’s Diner” is just one darn good read. I think they’d be missing out if they didn’t read my book.
30. Why does the topic of your book interest you? Why would it interest potential readers? Give us a hook to reel in new readers.
The topic is grounded in family unrest and conflict. To me that’s interesting. And, anyone who has grown up in a family (what?) probably feels a bit like spying on someone else’s troubles.
Okay, here’s a hook:
“Bobby’s Diner” is a story of a woman trying to find herself in a town where nobody wants her. Georgette Carlisle, twenty-five when she saunters into the rustic town of Sunnydale, Arizona, snags husband, Bobby, away from another woman, Vanessa Carlisle. After he dies - fifteen years later when the story begins - he leaves his restaurant called Bobby's Diner to both women. But, that's not the only problem. Bobby's Diner, situated on an attractive highway corridor property, is slated as the next boutique tourist site and sits smack in way of Zach Pinzer's dreams and future with Chariot International Incorporated, a large developer headquartered in Phoenix. Even after Zach arranges to destroy their property and fatally wounds their beloved busboy and gardener, he nearly kills Roberta, Vanessa's daughter. Georgette and Vanessa hold fast to the only thing they have, each other, and they fight. Georgette's story tells a tale of life, love, death, grief, pain, loneliness, and redemption. And, she finds her true family with the most unexpected people.
Thank you, Nikki, for this very thorough interview. Your questions were sometimes difficult but always well-thought out. Sincerely, Susan Wingate.
For more information -
Website Address: http://www.susanwingate.com
Primary Blog Address: www.susanwingate.blogspot.com
Ebook can be ordered at: www.ebooksonthe.net/catalog/eBooks_Catalog_NewBooks2.html
For more information about Susan Wingate’s virtual book tour and her full schedule at http://virtualblogtour.blogspot.com/2008/08/bobbys-diner-by-susan-wingate.html
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
"Ask Nikki Leigh" - Answering Your Promotional Questions
I've thought it would be fun to be an advise columnist for years. But, I would have to do that under an unknown identity :) Today, it hit me that it might be fun to add a promotional advise column to my Muze's Musings blog. So, I want to extend an invitation to people to send me their questions about writing, publishing and especially promoting. Once I start getting regular questions, I'll feature one or two on my radio show - Book Promo 101 - Write, Publish and Promote. Seems like that could all work together.
So, I invite you to send me your writing, publishing and promoting questions. But, I need to give you give you two warnings -
1 - I reserve the right to chose which ones to answer - and when to answer them
2 - I reserve the right to give you an honest answer - I should mention that I can sometimes be blunt, but I will make every effort to be kind and I will make an effort to make all the answers helpful.
The good news - I will leave the comment option on my blog and I invite others to share their thoughts. If the Ask Nikki idea really takes off, I'll move it to another blog. For now, the questions and answers will be posted at www.muzesmusings.blogspot.com and please submit your questions to AskNikkiLeigh@gmail.com That is the address for your questions. I look forward to hearing what people want to learn more about.
Nikki Leigh --- Send questions to ---- AskNikkiLeigh@gmail.com
Book Promo 101 - http://www.nikkileigh.com
Follow Me on Twitter - www.twitter.com/litekepr
Nikki Leigh Promotional Services - www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm
So, I invite you to send me your writing, publishing and promoting questions. But, I need to give you give you two warnings -
1 - I reserve the right to chose which ones to answer - and when to answer them
2 - I reserve the right to give you an honest answer - I should mention that I can sometimes be blunt, but I will make every effort to be kind and I will make an effort to make all the answers helpful.
The good news - I will leave the comment option on my blog and I invite others to share their thoughts. If the Ask Nikki idea really takes off, I'll move it to another blog. For now, the questions and answers will be posted at www.muzesmusings.blogspot.com and please submit your questions to AskNikkiLeigh@gmail.com That is the address for your questions. I look forward to hearing what people want to learn more about.
Nikki Leigh --- Send questions to ---- AskNikkiLeigh@gmail.com
Book Promo 101 - http://www.nikkileigh.com
Follow Me on Twitter - www.twitter.com/litekepr
Nikki Leigh Promotional Services - www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm
Friday, August 22, 2008
How to Submit Your Promotional Interview
Below are the interview questions. If you would like to submit your promotional interview for possible inclusion on this blog - copy the questions below and paste them into an RTF document file. Answer all questions completely and you can send your picture to be posted with the interview if you want. All interviews are posted on a first come, first serve basis and you will be notified when your interview is posted. Please complete the Q & A and email to nikki_leigh22939@yahoo.com and put "Promotional Interview" in the subject line.
Nikki Leigh
You have been invited to share your promotional experience with others.
Your Name:
1. Where you are from and where are you now?
2. How did you get started writing?
3. What do you do when you are not writing?
4. What would readers like to know about you?
5. What inspired your first book?
6. How many books have you written?
7. What are the titles of your books and what genres are they?
8. How do you decide on that topic or genre? Why are you specially qualified to write about this topic?
9. How do you manage to keep yourself focused and on track when you’re writing a book?
10. Do you write to make money, for the love of writing or both?
11. What are some traditional methods of marketing you have used? Which were the
most successful?
12. What are some unique methods of marketing you have used? Which were the most successful?
13. Do you sell through a website? If so, what’s the address? If not, why not?
14. Where can people order your books?
15. What format are your books – e-book, print, audio etc?
16. Will you write more books?
17. What do you have in the works now?
18. What does the future hold for you and your books?
19. What was the most successful thing you did to promote your books?
20. What was the least successful thing you did to promote your books?
21. Tell us about your most recent book.
22. What makes this book special to you?
23. What sort of comments have you gotten about the content of the book?
24. What makes this a book that other people MUST read and WHY?
25. What people NEED to read this book and WHY?
26. What sparks your creativity? Any tips to help others spark their own
creativity?
27. What do you think motivates people to become authors? What motivated you to get into this unusual industry?
28. Tell me about the most unusual things you have done to promote any books?
29. If a potential reader thinks that your book wouldn't interest them, what would you say to convince them to buy? I'm thinking something better than "Its the greatest book ever." Give me something more specific :)
30. Why does the topic of your book interest you? Why would it interest potential readers? Give us a hook to reel in new readers.
This interview was done in conjunction with Nikki Leigh, author of the Book Promo 101 series and owner of Promo 101 Virtual Blog Tours. For more information, visit – www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm and www.virtualblogtour.blogspot.com
Nikki Leigh
You have been invited to share your promotional experience with others.
Your Name:
1. Where you are from and where are you now?
2. How did you get started writing?
3. What do you do when you are not writing?
4. What would readers like to know about you?
5. What inspired your first book?
6. How many books have you written?
7. What are the titles of your books and what genres are they?
8. How do you decide on that topic or genre? Why are you specially qualified to write about this topic?
9. How do you manage to keep yourself focused and on track when you’re writing a book?
10. Do you write to make money, for the love of writing or both?
11. What are some traditional methods of marketing you have used? Which were the
most successful?
12. What are some unique methods of marketing you have used? Which were the most successful?
13. Do you sell through a website? If so, what’s the address? If not, why not?
14. Where can people order your books?
15. What format are your books – e-book, print, audio etc?
16. Will you write more books?
17. What do you have in the works now?
18. What does the future hold for you and your books?
19. What was the most successful thing you did to promote your books?
20. What was the least successful thing you did to promote your books?
21. Tell us about your most recent book.
22. What makes this book special to you?
23. What sort of comments have you gotten about the content of the book?
24. What makes this a book that other people MUST read and WHY?
25. What people NEED to read this book and WHY?
26. What sparks your creativity? Any tips to help others spark their own
creativity?
27. What do you think motivates people to become authors? What motivated you to get into this unusual industry?
28. Tell me about the most unusual things you have done to promote any books?
29. If a potential reader thinks that your book wouldn't interest them, what would you say to convince them to buy? I'm thinking something better than "Its the greatest book ever." Give me something more specific :)
30. Why does the topic of your book interest you? Why would it interest potential readers? Give us a hook to reel in new readers.
This interview was done in conjunction with Nikki Leigh, author of the Book Promo 101 series and owner of Promo 101 Virtual Blog Tours. For more information, visit – www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm and www.virtualblogtour.blogspot.com
Promotional Interview with Dave Richardson
You have been invited to share your promotional experience with others.
Your Name:
Dave Richardson
1. Where you are from and where are you now?
Born and raised in Southern California. Now live in Kansas.
2. How did you get started writing?
My 2nd son, Craig, (I have 4 sons), had tried for years to get me to put down in writing the stories I had related to them regarding my Vietnam experiences. (Incidentally, he has followed somewhat in my footsteps by becoming an Army helicopter pilot who served in the Panama incursion as well as Gulf Wars 1 & 2. He did Medivac [the Army version of rescue] in Panama and Gulf War 2. By the way, I have forgiven him for being in the Army instead of the Air Force!)
I resisted his efforts until I received a preliminary account of the ‘Streetcar’ rescue by Kenny Fields, the last guy I rescued. I thought it might be fun to write a counterpoint narrative, telling the story from my point of view, and found it to be enjoyable.
That was when Craig and I began working in earnest on the project—I wrote the narratives and supplied the photos, while Craig did the maps and supporting documents.
All of my sons, David, Craig, Eric and Mark plus my wife, Kaye, have participated in one fashion or another during the creation of this book.
3. What do you do when you are not writing?
Read; work with computer; enjoy life with wife, Kaye.
4. What would readers like to know about you?
I am a Christian. Decided while in the 7th grade I wanted to attend college, become a pilot with the USAF, retire and teach school—that is what I have done. (I flew a variety of helicopters and taught 8th grade Mathematics.) Wife and I are High School sweethearts. We live on the shore of a small lake in rural Kansas.
5. What inspired your first book?
My experiences as a combat rescue helicopter pilot in Vietnam.
6. How many books have you written?
One.
7. What are the titles of your books and what genres are they?
Vietnam Air Rescues. Historical/biographical.
8. How do you decide on that topic or genre? Why are you specially qualified to write about this topic?
Because I lived it. This book is an auto-biographical summary of my 7 rescues, plus other related instances that occurred while I was serving in Vietnam as a combat helicopter rescue pilot.
9. How do you manage to keep yourself focused and on track when you’re writing a book?
I try to pick a time when I am fresh and not involved in other things; then I ‘write up storm’ for awhile; then quit and do something else. Finally I review what I have just written and make corrections as they occur to me.
10. Do you write to make money, for the love of writing or both?
Originally, I wrote this book for the benefit of my children. Later, when others began requesting copies, I decided to have it published commercially. I found that I do enjoy writing and have been quite pleased to discover that others are interested in what I have written.
11. What are some traditional methods of marketing you have used? Which were the most successful?
Other than giving a few talks locally, this is my first attempt to market my book.
12. What are some unique methods of marketing you have used? Which were the most successful?
See answer #11
13. Do you sell through a website? If so, what’s the address? If not, why not?
Both through a website and directly through Amazon. The website address is: www.vietnam-air-rescues.com. The book is currently available in 2 formats: (1) as a printed book available through Amazon and (2) as a downloadable eBook. Both are linked from the website. I will soon have a third option—in audio book form. In addition, the book is available in Kindle format at: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B001CDMNYU.
14. Where can people order your books?
See answer #13
15. What format are your books – e-book, print, audio etc?
See answer #13
16. Will you write more books?
Although I have frequently been asked this question, I do not envision writing more books (at least not for the moment!)
17. What do you have in the works now?
Nothing.
18. What does the future hold for you and your books?
Using my 30 minute power point presentation, I plan to offer my services as a speaker at churches, civic clubs and the like, hoping that I can stimulate interest in sales of the book.
19. What was the most successful thing you did to promote your books?
Speaking locally, I have managed to generate both interest and sales. I am hoping this blog tour will acquaint those in other areas with the availability of my book on Amazon. Another idea that has helped was to make, and distribute free of charge, bookmarks with advertising material about my book on them.
20. What was the least successful thing you did to promote your books?
Fortunately, the few things I have done to date have all proven successful.
21. Tell us about your most recent book.
“Vietnam Air Rescues” comes in several parts. Part 1 is my take on the history of the Vietnam War. Part 2 gives general background on how the rescue system worked. Part 3 presents the details of my 7 rescues. Part 4 is a collection of 30+ anecdotes concerning things that happened to me apart from a particular rescue. Part 5 is a summation of general topics. Part 6 contains a final word. and Part 7 is a glossary of military jargon for the non-military minded. Scattered throughout the book, at appropriate places, are over 100 photos, maps and drawings.
22. What makes this book special to you?
It relates a period in my life that was both stressful and joyous; when I was asked to gamble everything for the sake of others. Fortunately, my training and equipment stood me in good stead. Most important, at least in my view, is that the Lord stood by me and returned me home safely.
23. What sort of comments have you gotten about the content of the book?
Approaching the 100 books sold mark, all the comments I have received have been positive. In addition to the verbal remarks from people who have read the book, there are 5 reviews on Amazon which are all praising the book.
24. What makes this a book that other people MUST read and WHY?
I tried to be both factual and dispassionate in my storytelling. Many people have very different conceptions of the Vietnam War, both positive and negative. I was involved in the effort to save American lives, without regard to politics. I hope people will read about this and perhaps get a new view or slant on what went on—this time from a positive view.
25. What people NEED to read this book and WHY?
Both those who lived through the Vietnam years and those who knew only know about it from history books.
Surprisingly enough, a lot of women have been fascinated by this book. I
would have thought it would appeal mainly to men, but that doesn’t seem to be the case. Several women have commented that it has allowed them to understand what happened to their father or husband when they served in Vietnam.
I did not keep a diary while I was there, so I wasn’t able to give a day to day account of my experiences. What I tried to do, and what some people have said they find fascinating, was to record the bare facts and avoid any hyperbole, while still communicating the details of rescue operations.
26. What sparks your creativity? Any tips to help others spark their own creativity?
In my case, there was little creativity involved, as these are tales of what actually happened to me in a manner that is burned into my memory.
In my case, I had constant support and input from my wife and all four sons, who encouraged me and occasionally prompted me to include tidbits I might have forgotten to include.
27. What do you think motivates people to become authors? What motivated you to get into this unusual industry?
See answer #2
28. Tell me about the most unusual things you have done to promote any books?
To date, my promotion has been limited to speaking to churches, civic clubs and historical societies.
One bit of advice I received, which I believe has been of benefit, was to make bookmarks advertising the book and give them away. This has seemed to work quite well.
29. If a potential reader thinks that your book wouldn't interest them, what would you say to convince them to buy? I'm thinking something better than "Its the greatest book ever." Give me something more specific :)
This is a book that is more about saving peoples lives than war itself. I would encourage them to read a single rescue sequence to see if they found the descriptions interesting.
I knew that not all my readers would know about or remember the background of the Vietnam War, so I put in a section detailing my impressions of how and why we, as a country, became involved.
For the same reason, I included a background of life as a Jolly Green pilot and a bunch of anecdotes not directly related to rescue itself.
My hope was that even those who were vehemently opposed to the war would find something interesting they could relate to.
30. Why does the topic of your book interest you? Why would it interest potential readers? Give us a hook to reel in new readers.
I think most people are intrigued by ‘how it really was’ stories. The Air Force rescue portion of the Vietnam War, for some reason, has been mostly overlooked, so this is something new for most readers.
It interests me because I was there and experienced all the various incidents described.
Others, I think, find themselves fascinated by the lengths our country went to in attempting to rescue those in harms’ way.
This interview was done in conjunction with Nikki Leigh, author of the Book Promo 101 series and owner of Promo 101 Virtual Blog Tours. For more information, visit – www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm and www.virtualblogtour.blogspot.com
Your Name:
Dave Richardson
1. Where you are from and where are you now?
Born and raised in Southern California. Now live in Kansas.
2. How did you get started writing?
My 2nd son, Craig, (I have 4 sons), had tried for years to get me to put down in writing the stories I had related to them regarding my Vietnam experiences. (Incidentally, he has followed somewhat in my footsteps by becoming an Army helicopter pilot who served in the Panama incursion as well as Gulf Wars 1 & 2. He did Medivac [the Army version of rescue] in Panama and Gulf War 2. By the way, I have forgiven him for being in the Army instead of the Air Force!)
I resisted his efforts until I received a preliminary account of the ‘Streetcar’ rescue by Kenny Fields, the last guy I rescued. I thought it might be fun to write a counterpoint narrative, telling the story from my point of view, and found it to be enjoyable.
That was when Craig and I began working in earnest on the project—I wrote the narratives and supplied the photos, while Craig did the maps and supporting documents.
All of my sons, David, Craig, Eric and Mark plus my wife, Kaye, have participated in one fashion or another during the creation of this book.
3. What do you do when you are not writing?
Read; work with computer; enjoy life with wife, Kaye.
4. What would readers like to know about you?
I am a Christian. Decided while in the 7th grade I wanted to attend college, become a pilot with the USAF, retire and teach school—that is what I have done. (I flew a variety of helicopters and taught 8th grade Mathematics.) Wife and I are High School sweethearts. We live on the shore of a small lake in rural Kansas.
5. What inspired your first book?
My experiences as a combat rescue helicopter pilot in Vietnam.
6. How many books have you written?
One.
7. What are the titles of your books and what genres are they?
Vietnam Air Rescues. Historical/biographical.
8. How do you decide on that topic or genre? Why are you specially qualified to write about this topic?
Because I lived it. This book is an auto-biographical summary of my 7 rescues, plus other related instances that occurred while I was serving in Vietnam as a combat helicopter rescue pilot.
9. How do you manage to keep yourself focused and on track when you’re writing a book?
I try to pick a time when I am fresh and not involved in other things; then I ‘write up storm’ for awhile; then quit and do something else. Finally I review what I have just written and make corrections as they occur to me.
10. Do you write to make money, for the love of writing or both?
Originally, I wrote this book for the benefit of my children. Later, when others began requesting copies, I decided to have it published commercially. I found that I do enjoy writing and have been quite pleased to discover that others are interested in what I have written.
11. What are some traditional methods of marketing you have used? Which were the most successful?
Other than giving a few talks locally, this is my first attempt to market my book.
12. What are some unique methods of marketing you have used? Which were the most successful?
See answer #11
13. Do you sell through a website? If so, what’s the address? If not, why not?
Both through a website and directly through Amazon. The website address is: www.vietnam-air-rescues.com. The book is currently available in 2 formats: (1) as a printed book available through Amazon and (2) as a downloadable eBook. Both are linked from the website. I will soon have a third option—in audio book form. In addition, the book is available in Kindle format at: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B001CDMNYU.
14. Where can people order your books?
See answer #13
15. What format are your books – e-book, print, audio etc?
See answer #13
16. Will you write more books?
Although I have frequently been asked this question, I do not envision writing more books (at least not for the moment!)
17. What do you have in the works now?
Nothing.
18. What does the future hold for you and your books?
Using my 30 minute power point presentation, I plan to offer my services as a speaker at churches, civic clubs and the like, hoping that I can stimulate interest in sales of the book.
19. What was the most successful thing you did to promote your books?
Speaking locally, I have managed to generate both interest and sales. I am hoping this blog tour will acquaint those in other areas with the availability of my book on Amazon. Another idea that has helped was to make, and distribute free of charge, bookmarks with advertising material about my book on them.
20. What was the least successful thing you did to promote your books?
Fortunately, the few things I have done to date have all proven successful.
21. Tell us about your most recent book.
“Vietnam Air Rescues” comes in several parts. Part 1 is my take on the history of the Vietnam War. Part 2 gives general background on how the rescue system worked. Part 3 presents the details of my 7 rescues. Part 4 is a collection of 30+ anecdotes concerning things that happened to me apart from a particular rescue. Part 5 is a summation of general topics. Part 6 contains a final word. and Part 7 is a glossary of military jargon for the non-military minded. Scattered throughout the book, at appropriate places, are over 100 photos, maps and drawings.
22. What makes this book special to you?
It relates a period in my life that was both stressful and joyous; when I was asked to gamble everything for the sake of others. Fortunately, my training and equipment stood me in good stead. Most important, at least in my view, is that the Lord stood by me and returned me home safely.
23. What sort of comments have you gotten about the content of the book?
Approaching the 100 books sold mark, all the comments I have received have been positive. In addition to the verbal remarks from people who have read the book, there are 5 reviews on Amazon which are all praising the book.
24. What makes this a book that other people MUST read and WHY?
I tried to be both factual and dispassionate in my storytelling. Many people have very different conceptions of the Vietnam War, both positive and negative. I was involved in the effort to save American lives, without regard to politics. I hope people will read about this and perhaps get a new view or slant on what went on—this time from a positive view.
25. What people NEED to read this book and WHY?
Both those who lived through the Vietnam years and those who knew only know about it from history books.
Surprisingly enough, a lot of women have been fascinated by this book. I
would have thought it would appeal mainly to men, but that doesn’t seem to be the case. Several women have commented that it has allowed them to understand what happened to their father or husband when they served in Vietnam.
I did not keep a diary while I was there, so I wasn’t able to give a day to day account of my experiences. What I tried to do, and what some people have said they find fascinating, was to record the bare facts and avoid any hyperbole, while still communicating the details of rescue operations.
26. What sparks your creativity? Any tips to help others spark their own creativity?
In my case, there was little creativity involved, as these are tales of what actually happened to me in a manner that is burned into my memory.
In my case, I had constant support and input from my wife and all four sons, who encouraged me and occasionally prompted me to include tidbits I might have forgotten to include.
27. What do you think motivates people to become authors? What motivated you to get into this unusual industry?
See answer #2
28. Tell me about the most unusual things you have done to promote any books?
To date, my promotion has been limited to speaking to churches, civic clubs and historical societies.
One bit of advice I received, which I believe has been of benefit, was to make bookmarks advertising the book and give them away. This has seemed to work quite well.
29. If a potential reader thinks that your book wouldn't interest them, what would you say to convince them to buy? I'm thinking something better than "Its the greatest book ever." Give me something more specific :)
This is a book that is more about saving peoples lives than war itself. I would encourage them to read a single rescue sequence to see if they found the descriptions interesting.
I knew that not all my readers would know about or remember the background of the Vietnam War, so I put in a section detailing my impressions of how and why we, as a country, became involved.
For the same reason, I included a background of life as a Jolly Green pilot and a bunch of anecdotes not directly related to rescue itself.
My hope was that even those who were vehemently opposed to the war would find something interesting they could relate to.
30. Why does the topic of your book interest you? Why would it interest potential readers? Give us a hook to reel in new readers.
I think most people are intrigued by ‘how it really was’ stories. The Air Force rescue portion of the Vietnam War, for some reason, has been mostly overlooked, so this is something new for most readers.
It interests me because I was there and experienced all the various incidents described.
Others, I think, find themselves fascinated by the lengths our country went to in attempting to rescue those in harms’ way.
This interview was done in conjunction with Nikki Leigh, author of the Book Promo 101 series and owner of Promo 101 Virtual Blog Tours. For more information, visit – www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm and www.virtualblogtour.blogspot.com
Promomtional Interview with Hugh Ballou
Your Name: Hugh Ballou
1. Where you are from and where are you now?
I grew up in Atlanta, GA in the neighborhood where “Driving Miss Daisy” was filmed. I have lived in the South all my life in Georgia, Florida, Alabama, and now in Virginia. Now, I am living in Blacksburg, VA with my wife, Leigh Anne Taylor, who is a pastoral church musician as I was for 40 years.
2. How did you get started writing?
Writing for church publications was a regular discipline for many years. It was a challenge for me to put facts, processes and theory into words that people would actually read and understand. Then, I began writing articles for other publications. Once I began to receive feedback on the articles, I realized that I could put together larger sections of information and then ended up with the idea for my first book. I received a rejection from a publisher, so I decided to self-publish that book to get it into the hands of people who would appreciate the information. I am now in the third printing of that book and it is included in the online catalogue of the publisher that rejected it.
3. What do you do when you are not writing?
I teach leaders basic leadership concepts from my writing and learn more about how to communicate fundamental concepts of leadership. I also continue to work with other conductors of musical ensembles to promote good music and great musical events worldwide. I love the passion of making great music with great musicians. In fact, I learned my leadership skills in my 40-year career as conductor.
4. What would readers like to know about you?
I help leaders create new paradigms for leadership. Presenting leadership skills from the perspective of a musical conductor is a fresh approach to a subject that may be stale in some training arenas. I am also passionate about cooking for my family! Both of the passions are me sharing the best of my God-given skills.
5. What inspired your first book?
After talking to many leaders who struggled with the same issues, I was inspired to share my story with them verbally. Once I discovered that the same issues were coming up again and again, I realized that it was time to write about those topics so I could touch more people. I do not consider myself to be a writer, so to overcome the feeling of inadequacy on that subject I began to write!
6. How many books have you written?
I have written 5 books. Transforming Power is actually the 5th book. It jumped over the 4th book, which is in its final stages. The 4th book, Leaders Transform, will be out early in the fall along with the 6th book, which is a companion workbook for #5.
7. What are the titles of your books and what genres are they?
All of my books are about Transformational Leadership. Leaders seeking to transform organizations, systems, and people’s lives need a constant source of inspiration and a resource for new and revised skills. My books can be categorized as “Leadership Tools” for those who want to keep “sharpening the saw,” as Stephen Covey puts it. I write books for people like me. People who want to read a brief chapter or illustration and get back to work - for people who want practical ideas that are immediately applicable – and for people who want realistic, not academic solutions.
8. How do you decide on that topic or genre? Why are you specially qualified to write about this topic?
Having working in many different situations as leader, I made all the classic mistakes and some really creative mistakes. I want to share the knowledge I gained from my mistakes. I wish I had had a resource like this so I could have made some better choices along the way as a leader! I actually developed and perfected systems and processed that worked. They worked really well! People would ask me, “How did you get that result?” So, I tell then through my writing. Some read, some don’t - some listen, some don’t - some succeed, some don’t – I’m happy if anybody applies anything is suggest and succeed.
9. How do you manage to keep yourself focused and on track when you’re writing a book?
I outlined my first book and put away the outline for 2 years. Once I left a job with a regular paycheck, I needed to get clients. So I needed some credibility and decided to bring out the outline and write the book. In looking over the outline, I decided to start with the chapter “Getting Things Done: Choosing priorities, running meetings and ordering our time.” I knew what to do; I just needed to apply what I already knew. Once I finished that chapter I was obligated to follow what I had suggested to others. My credibility rested in being able to focus and manage my time. So, I scheduled writing appointments with myself and kept the appointments. I finished the book in 30-days, sent it to the printer and was selling it a month later!
10. Do you write to make money, for the love of writing or both?
11. What are some traditional methods of marketing you have used? Which were the most successful?
Word-of-mouth is the most traditional, most successful and most cost effective! People telling people becomes a powerful system. This not only sells books, but it also validates me in my position as mentor of success. Word-of-mouth is also fastest and most thorough, especially when combined with an online viral marketing program such as a blog tour. I have been on a blog tour for the past month and I can see measurable results with book sales online.
12. What are some unique methods of marketing you have used? Which were the most successful?
I asked some business owner who are in similar or compatible businesses to give the purchasers of my book a gift that will assist them in their leadership journey. Everyone that I asked responded positively! So, I created a gift list of over $4,000 worth of leadership resources that are free or are major discounts on products or services – most are free. Each of these businesses also agreed to send out my message about the book to their contact list on a specific day. This is currently bringing wonderful results and a lot of traffic to my site as well as the sites for each of the contributors of gifts. When you ask people to share resources and you are willing to share with them, it works!
13. Do you sell through a website? If so, what’s the address? If not, why not?
I created a website just for the book - http://www.transforming-power.com
On this site I placed reasons people should have my book and told them about the free gifts. I also made a welcome video and told them what I had, why I was good for them and what to do next. I think simplicity is powerful! I can track who comes, how long they stay, if they purchase and were they come from.
14. Where can people order your books?
On http://www.transforming-power.com there’s a link to the book on Amazon.
15. What format are your books – e-book, print, audio etc?
Transforming Power is in print. My other books and in print and also available as eBooks from http://www.leaderstransform.com/products.htm
I am moving toward recording each book in various audio formats for ease of use – just like the books – short and to the point!
16. Will you write more books?
Leaders Transform: A Guide for Transformational Leaders and Leaders Transform: An Expanded Workbook for Transformational Leaders are due out this fall. Also, A Devotional Guide for Christian Transformational Leaders is in the works for next year. All these books follow my leadership coaching model, which groups leadership processes and skills into 4 areas: Foundations, Relationships, Systems and Balance. In my experience, the simplicity of categorizing everything about leadership into 4 topics can help to focus and unify strategies for leaders.
17. What do you have in the works now?
I am working on a 12-month teleseminar with study guide for leaders wanting to transform and organization, systems or people’s lives. This online and at home program will be announced through my online training site, Leadership TeleSeminar (http://www.leadershipteleseminar.com ) and will begin in the fall. This is a way for organizations to get a jump-start on a strategic plan that usually costs $25,000 to $50,000! In addition, many organizations with a strategic plan have parked it on a shelf or in a drawer and that plan is not a part of the DNA of the organization, so it is doing them no good al all! My strategy is to provide traction for plans so that organizations can transform!
18. What does the future hold for you and your books?
I am hoping to get more books into the hands of more leaders. Bloom’s Taxonomy (http://www.officeport.com/edu/blooms.htm) tells us that knowledge is at the base of the learning pyramid. I am currently working with the Cooperative Leadership Institute (http://www.vtcli.com/) to put my training into an online, interactive process. There are many things that leaders can study in books and online to stretch themselves and build some basic skills.
19. What was the most successful thing you did to promote your books?
Contract with viral marketing specialists who understand how to get a process started and build momentum. It is also important that authors participate in their own marketing efforts – either with viral programs or programs with publishers. It’s important to adequately describe what’s so good about the book, why people need it and what you want them to do next (tell them to buy it!).
20. What was the least successful thing you did to promote your books?
Running tradition print ads is like gambling. Most of the money is wasted unless it is in a form that connects with specific, targeted audiences.
21. Tell us about your most recent book.
Transforming Power: Stories from Transformational Leaders for Inspiration and Encouragement is a unique collection of stories that demonstrate the effectiveness of visionary leaders. Every story has a valuable perspective and provides good leadership principles that can be applied in any type of organization. Good leadership is applicable wherever people lead. Each contributing author shares insights from their perspective. My first books are the “How To” of leadership giving strategies and systems for leaders. This book teaches through stories. We all learn in different ways, so it’s important to have a variety of methods for learning. I learn from the “how to” resources, however, I am empowered to observe or to read about accomplishments.
22. What makes this book special to you?
Each author wanted to share from his or her own experience and, almost without exception, these authors responded with a resounding “Yes” when asked to contribute. I know each of these authors and I understand their passion for leadership and for changing people’s lives. As I read and reread each story, I remember, with gratitude, my conversations with each author and their response to my request. This book, in itself, represents transformation. I was able to transform an idea into reality. Once I was able to articulate my goal and share that goal with others, the idea began to manifest itself into physical form. I was the Transformational Leader in this instance.
23. What sort of comments have you gotten about the content of the book?
Several people important to me have written or called to tell me how they loved this book and many have used the same comment – “This is a really good book!”
24. What makes this a book that other people MUST read and WHY?
I get tired of the same old stuff! I know that other people must feel the same way. These are some fresh and exciting perspectives on leadership. Organizations fail because of lack of visionary leadership. Transformational Leaders lead with charisma with a clearly articulated vision. What new leaders and especially older, more mature leaders need most is passion and inspiration! This book provides the fire for that passion!
25. What people NEED to read this book and WHY?
This book is for leaders of organizations, leaders of teams, future leaders, and people who know leaders. Basically, this book helps promote good leadership for everyone. In fact, we are all called to lead somewhere at sometime in our lives, so, why not be ready before that opportunity comes? We each impact others in a positive, negative or neutral way – the choice is ours! Reading Transforming Power will equip people with the positive mental attitude to be that positive influence with everyone they meet. This not theory – it works!
26. What sparks your creativity? Any tips to help others spark their own creativity?
I feel empowered by the words, “I don’t think you can accomplish that.” My response is, “Watch me, and get out of the way!” Barriers and obstacles are opportunities for problem solving. The difference in barrier and opportunity in usually defined as perspective. My motivation is solving problems and helping leaders find ways to strengthen skills to solve their problems. I am empowered by each leader that succeeds – so, hearing that I have made a difference in someone’s live sparks my enthusiasm and creativity.
27. What do you think motivates people to become authors? What motivated you to get into this unusual industry?
It is with great fear of rejection and ridicule that keeps some people from sharing their thoughts with others. I knew that this could be a possibility, however, I also know that I would grow in my own skills when becoming vulnerable and transparent. I teach leaders to be vulnerable in order to be effective, and to lead by example. In order to be effective in leadership myself, I wanted to set the example. People may not think that I am always correct, however, many say that they have learned something of value. Writing let’s me share with more people at the same time.
28. Tell me about the most unusual things you have done to promote any books?
I have loaned books to people for a week and asked them to respond to a specific chapter or point in the book. When I return to collect the loaned book, they write me a check about 90% of the time.
29. If a potential reader thinks that your book wouldn't interest them, what would you say to convince them to buy? I'm thinking something better than "Its the greatest book ever." Give me something more specific :)
If one story in this book could help you thing about creative solutions for your organization or change your life, would it be worth having the book? If you didn’t want to keep the book, could you think of someone who could benefit from some good leadership suggestions? Either way, it’s worth having a copy to read and to share.
30. Why does the topic of your book interest you? Why would it interest potential readers? Give us a hook to reel in new readers.
If an organization is stagnant because the leader is stale this can be an empowering resource. It’s also for leaders who are just “stuck.” It’s worth having the book to get just one idea that could ultimately change someone’s life – it might be the reader who is changed – how powerful is that?
This interview was done in conjunction with Nikki Leigh, author of the Book Promo 101 series and owner of Promo 101 Virtual Blog Tours. For more information, visit – www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm and
www.virtualblogtour.blogspot.com
1. Where you are from and where are you now?
I grew up in Atlanta, GA in the neighborhood where “Driving Miss Daisy” was filmed. I have lived in the South all my life in Georgia, Florida, Alabama, and now in Virginia. Now, I am living in Blacksburg, VA with my wife, Leigh Anne Taylor, who is a pastoral church musician as I was for 40 years.
2. How did you get started writing?
Writing for church publications was a regular discipline for many years. It was a challenge for me to put facts, processes and theory into words that people would actually read and understand. Then, I began writing articles for other publications. Once I began to receive feedback on the articles, I realized that I could put together larger sections of information and then ended up with the idea for my first book. I received a rejection from a publisher, so I decided to self-publish that book to get it into the hands of people who would appreciate the information. I am now in the third printing of that book and it is included in the online catalogue of the publisher that rejected it.
3. What do you do when you are not writing?
I teach leaders basic leadership concepts from my writing and learn more about how to communicate fundamental concepts of leadership. I also continue to work with other conductors of musical ensembles to promote good music and great musical events worldwide. I love the passion of making great music with great musicians. In fact, I learned my leadership skills in my 40-year career as conductor.
4. What would readers like to know about you?
I help leaders create new paradigms for leadership. Presenting leadership skills from the perspective of a musical conductor is a fresh approach to a subject that may be stale in some training arenas. I am also passionate about cooking for my family! Both of the passions are me sharing the best of my God-given skills.
5. What inspired your first book?
After talking to many leaders who struggled with the same issues, I was inspired to share my story with them verbally. Once I discovered that the same issues were coming up again and again, I realized that it was time to write about those topics so I could touch more people. I do not consider myself to be a writer, so to overcome the feeling of inadequacy on that subject I began to write!
6. How many books have you written?
I have written 5 books. Transforming Power is actually the 5th book. It jumped over the 4th book, which is in its final stages. The 4th book, Leaders Transform, will be out early in the fall along with the 6th book, which is a companion workbook for #5.
7. What are the titles of your books and what genres are they?
All of my books are about Transformational Leadership. Leaders seeking to transform organizations, systems, and people’s lives need a constant source of inspiration and a resource for new and revised skills. My books can be categorized as “Leadership Tools” for those who want to keep “sharpening the saw,” as Stephen Covey puts it. I write books for people like me. People who want to read a brief chapter or illustration and get back to work - for people who want practical ideas that are immediately applicable – and for people who want realistic, not academic solutions.
8. How do you decide on that topic or genre? Why are you specially qualified to write about this topic?
Having working in many different situations as leader, I made all the classic mistakes and some really creative mistakes. I want to share the knowledge I gained from my mistakes. I wish I had had a resource like this so I could have made some better choices along the way as a leader! I actually developed and perfected systems and processed that worked. They worked really well! People would ask me, “How did you get that result?” So, I tell then through my writing. Some read, some don’t - some listen, some don’t - some succeed, some don’t – I’m happy if anybody applies anything is suggest and succeed.
9. How do you manage to keep yourself focused and on track when you’re writing a book?
I outlined my first book and put away the outline for 2 years. Once I left a job with a regular paycheck, I needed to get clients. So I needed some credibility and decided to bring out the outline and write the book. In looking over the outline, I decided to start with the chapter “Getting Things Done: Choosing priorities, running meetings and ordering our time.” I knew what to do; I just needed to apply what I already knew. Once I finished that chapter I was obligated to follow what I had suggested to others. My credibility rested in being able to focus and manage my time. So, I scheduled writing appointments with myself and kept the appointments. I finished the book in 30-days, sent it to the printer and was selling it a month later!
10. Do you write to make money, for the love of writing or both?
11. What are some traditional methods of marketing you have used? Which were the most successful?
Word-of-mouth is the most traditional, most successful and most cost effective! People telling people becomes a powerful system. This not only sells books, but it also validates me in my position as mentor of success. Word-of-mouth is also fastest and most thorough, especially when combined with an online viral marketing program such as a blog tour. I have been on a blog tour for the past month and I can see measurable results with book sales online.
12. What are some unique methods of marketing you have used? Which were the most successful?
I asked some business owner who are in similar or compatible businesses to give the purchasers of my book a gift that will assist them in their leadership journey. Everyone that I asked responded positively! So, I created a gift list of over $4,000 worth of leadership resources that are free or are major discounts on products or services – most are free. Each of these businesses also agreed to send out my message about the book to their contact list on a specific day. This is currently bringing wonderful results and a lot of traffic to my site as well as the sites for each of the contributors of gifts. When you ask people to share resources and you are willing to share with them, it works!
13. Do you sell through a website? If so, what’s the address? If not, why not?
I created a website just for the book - http://www.transforming-power.com
On this site I placed reasons people should have my book and told them about the free gifts. I also made a welcome video and told them what I had, why I was good for them and what to do next. I think simplicity is powerful! I can track who comes, how long they stay, if they purchase and were they come from.
14. Where can people order your books?
On http://www.transforming-power.com there’s a link to the book on Amazon.
15. What format are your books – e-book, print, audio etc?
Transforming Power is in print. My other books and in print and also available as eBooks from http://www.leaderstransform.com/products.htm
I am moving toward recording each book in various audio formats for ease of use – just like the books – short and to the point!
16. Will you write more books?
Leaders Transform: A Guide for Transformational Leaders and Leaders Transform: An Expanded Workbook for Transformational Leaders are due out this fall. Also, A Devotional Guide for Christian Transformational Leaders is in the works for next year. All these books follow my leadership coaching model, which groups leadership processes and skills into 4 areas: Foundations, Relationships, Systems and Balance. In my experience, the simplicity of categorizing everything about leadership into 4 topics can help to focus and unify strategies for leaders.
17. What do you have in the works now?
I am working on a 12-month teleseminar with study guide for leaders wanting to transform and organization, systems or people’s lives. This online and at home program will be announced through my online training site, Leadership TeleSeminar (http://www.leadershipteleseminar.com ) and will begin in the fall. This is a way for organizations to get a jump-start on a strategic plan that usually costs $25,000 to $50,000! In addition, many organizations with a strategic plan have parked it on a shelf or in a drawer and that plan is not a part of the DNA of the organization, so it is doing them no good al all! My strategy is to provide traction for plans so that organizations can transform!
18. What does the future hold for you and your books?
I am hoping to get more books into the hands of more leaders. Bloom’s Taxonomy (http://www.officeport.com/edu/blooms.htm) tells us that knowledge is at the base of the learning pyramid. I am currently working with the Cooperative Leadership Institute (http://www.vtcli.com/) to put my training into an online, interactive process. There are many things that leaders can study in books and online to stretch themselves and build some basic skills.
19. What was the most successful thing you did to promote your books?
Contract with viral marketing specialists who understand how to get a process started and build momentum. It is also important that authors participate in their own marketing efforts – either with viral programs or programs with publishers. It’s important to adequately describe what’s so good about the book, why people need it and what you want them to do next (tell them to buy it!).
20. What was the least successful thing you did to promote your books?
Running tradition print ads is like gambling. Most of the money is wasted unless it is in a form that connects with specific, targeted audiences.
21. Tell us about your most recent book.
Transforming Power: Stories from Transformational Leaders for Inspiration and Encouragement is a unique collection of stories that demonstrate the effectiveness of visionary leaders. Every story has a valuable perspective and provides good leadership principles that can be applied in any type of organization. Good leadership is applicable wherever people lead. Each contributing author shares insights from their perspective. My first books are the “How To” of leadership giving strategies and systems for leaders. This book teaches through stories. We all learn in different ways, so it’s important to have a variety of methods for learning. I learn from the “how to” resources, however, I am empowered to observe or to read about accomplishments.
22. What makes this book special to you?
Each author wanted to share from his or her own experience and, almost without exception, these authors responded with a resounding “Yes” when asked to contribute. I know each of these authors and I understand their passion for leadership and for changing people’s lives. As I read and reread each story, I remember, with gratitude, my conversations with each author and their response to my request. This book, in itself, represents transformation. I was able to transform an idea into reality. Once I was able to articulate my goal and share that goal with others, the idea began to manifest itself into physical form. I was the Transformational Leader in this instance.
23. What sort of comments have you gotten about the content of the book?
Several people important to me have written or called to tell me how they loved this book and many have used the same comment – “This is a really good book!”
24. What makes this a book that other people MUST read and WHY?
I get tired of the same old stuff! I know that other people must feel the same way. These are some fresh and exciting perspectives on leadership. Organizations fail because of lack of visionary leadership. Transformational Leaders lead with charisma with a clearly articulated vision. What new leaders and especially older, more mature leaders need most is passion and inspiration! This book provides the fire for that passion!
25. What people NEED to read this book and WHY?
This book is for leaders of organizations, leaders of teams, future leaders, and people who know leaders. Basically, this book helps promote good leadership for everyone. In fact, we are all called to lead somewhere at sometime in our lives, so, why not be ready before that opportunity comes? We each impact others in a positive, negative or neutral way – the choice is ours! Reading Transforming Power will equip people with the positive mental attitude to be that positive influence with everyone they meet. This not theory – it works!
26. What sparks your creativity? Any tips to help others spark their own creativity?
I feel empowered by the words, “I don’t think you can accomplish that.” My response is, “Watch me, and get out of the way!” Barriers and obstacles are opportunities for problem solving. The difference in barrier and opportunity in usually defined as perspective. My motivation is solving problems and helping leaders find ways to strengthen skills to solve their problems. I am empowered by each leader that succeeds – so, hearing that I have made a difference in someone’s live sparks my enthusiasm and creativity.
27. What do you think motivates people to become authors? What motivated you to get into this unusual industry?
It is with great fear of rejection and ridicule that keeps some people from sharing their thoughts with others. I knew that this could be a possibility, however, I also know that I would grow in my own skills when becoming vulnerable and transparent. I teach leaders to be vulnerable in order to be effective, and to lead by example. In order to be effective in leadership myself, I wanted to set the example. People may not think that I am always correct, however, many say that they have learned something of value. Writing let’s me share with more people at the same time.
28. Tell me about the most unusual things you have done to promote any books?
I have loaned books to people for a week and asked them to respond to a specific chapter or point in the book. When I return to collect the loaned book, they write me a check about 90% of the time.
29. If a potential reader thinks that your book wouldn't interest them, what would you say to convince them to buy? I'm thinking something better than "Its the greatest book ever." Give me something more specific :)
If one story in this book could help you thing about creative solutions for your organization or change your life, would it be worth having the book? If you didn’t want to keep the book, could you think of someone who could benefit from some good leadership suggestions? Either way, it’s worth having a copy to read and to share.
30. Why does the topic of your book interest you? Why would it interest potential readers? Give us a hook to reel in new readers.
If an organization is stagnant because the leader is stale this can be an empowering resource. It’s also for leaders who are just “stuck.” It’s worth having the book to get just one idea that could ultimately change someone’s life – it might be the reader who is changed – how powerful is that?
This interview was done in conjunction with Nikki Leigh, author of the Book Promo 101 series and owner of Promo 101 Virtual Blog Tours. For more information, visit – www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm and
www.virtualblogtour.blogspot.com
David S Grant Promotional Interview
You have been invited to share your promotional experience with others.
Your Name:
1. Where you are from and where are you now? [DG] Born in Milwaukee, WI, currently live and work in New York City.
2. How did you get started writing? [DG] Like most, I guess I’ve always been writing. It was around the year 2000 when I started and finished my first novel.
3. What do you do when you are not writing? [DG] Working in the corporate world and having fun. My books have a very “live in the moment” appeal and I try to live the same way, enjoying life, daily. Not just focused on the “end goal”, but enjoying the ride along the way.
4. What would readers like to know about you? [DG] The question I often get from readers is where do I get my ideas, whether for my novels or short stories. Many stories from my short story collection, Emotionless Souls, came from my work in offices. I find the corporate setting provides a nice back drop for disturbing stories no one wants to discuss.
5. What inspired your first book? [DG] Part fiction and part autobiographical, my first book (just recently published as a double novel with Blackout, the sequel) was inspired by both my life, stories of friends, and my love of transgression fiction.
6. How many books have you written? [DG] I have written four books. Corporate Porn was published in 2005 through Silverthought Press. Emotionless Souls, my short story collection, and novella The Last Breakfast were published in March 2008 through Brown Paper Publishing. The drug and rock fueled double novel, Bleach and Blackout is now available through Offense Mechanism, an imprint of Silverthought Press.
7. What are the titles of your books and what genres are they? [DG] Literary fiction, humor, transgression fiction, and social satire. That pretty much covers it.
8. How do you decide on that topic or genre? [DG] For me it’s not really a decision I can make. These are the types of books I enjoy writing. Regardless of an audience this is my passion, my entertainment. My therapy.
9. How do you manage to keep yourself focused and on track? [DG] If writing for enjoyment this is easy, I personally do not write each day, but rather log notes and outline, only writing when ready to really focus on my project. I admit that I am a binge writer and am seeking help with my problem.
10. Do you write to make money or for the love of writing? [DG] For the love of writing. I am fortunate that I have great publishers working with me that turn my writing into fantastic books. Of course, if I can make money, and maybe someday a career out of this that would be the icing on the cake.
11. What are some traditional methods of marketing you have used? [DG] Press releases, book release parties, and book signings.
12. What are some unique methods of marketing you have used? [DG] Writing short stories and posting on literary websites as a way to promote a novel; writing for websites in exchange allowing me to promote my work.
13. Do you sell through a website? If so, what’s the address? If not, why not? [DG] My website, http://www.davidsgrant.com, contains links to all of my books, interviews, and reviews.
14. Where can people order your books? [DG] At my website, http://www.davidsgrant.com and also at these locations: www.silverthought.com, www.brownpaperpublishing.net, www.amazon.com, www.barnesandnoble.com, www.target.com, and www.borders.com. My books can also be purchased at the following book stores in New York City: St. Marks Bookstore (Manhattan), Drougas Books (Manhattan), and Book Court (Brooklyn).
15. What format are your books – e-book, print, audio etc? [DG] Print
16. Will you write more books? [DG] Yes, I have a finished manuscript being reviewed and am also working on Bliss, a prequel to Bleach and Blackout.
17. What does the future hold for you and your books?[DG] I hope to continue working with my current publishers with future projects and promotion of my current catalog.
18. What was the most successful thing you did to promote your books? [DG] Anytime you can get someone to read and review your books brings potential new audiences to your work. Reviews, whether online or in print, have opened up my books to subsequent reviews and also publishers requesting my work.
19. What was the least successful thing you did to promote your books? [DG] It’s hard to say, specifically the viral online marketing what works and what doesn’t. I have learned that a well worded AND timed press release makes a world of difference for initial promotion and making people aware of your books.
This interview was done in conjunction with Nikki Leigh, author of the Book Promo 101 series. For more information, visit – www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm.
Your Name:
1. Where you are from and where are you now? [DG] Born in Milwaukee, WI, currently live and work in New York City.
2. How did you get started writing? [DG] Like most, I guess I’ve always been writing. It was around the year 2000 when I started and finished my first novel.
3. What do you do when you are not writing? [DG] Working in the corporate world and having fun. My books have a very “live in the moment” appeal and I try to live the same way, enjoying life, daily. Not just focused on the “end goal”, but enjoying the ride along the way.
4. What would readers like to know about you? [DG] The question I often get from readers is where do I get my ideas, whether for my novels or short stories. Many stories from my short story collection, Emotionless Souls, came from my work in offices. I find the corporate setting provides a nice back drop for disturbing stories no one wants to discuss.
5. What inspired your first book? [DG] Part fiction and part autobiographical, my first book (just recently published as a double novel with Blackout, the sequel) was inspired by both my life, stories of friends, and my love of transgression fiction.
6. How many books have you written? [DG] I have written four books. Corporate Porn was published in 2005 through Silverthought Press. Emotionless Souls, my short story collection, and novella The Last Breakfast were published in March 2008 through Brown Paper Publishing. The drug and rock fueled double novel, Bleach and Blackout is now available through Offense Mechanism, an imprint of Silverthought Press.
7. What are the titles of your books and what genres are they? [DG] Literary fiction, humor, transgression fiction, and social satire. That pretty much covers it.
8. How do you decide on that topic or genre? [DG] For me it’s not really a decision I can make. These are the types of books I enjoy writing. Regardless of an audience this is my passion, my entertainment. My therapy.
9. How do you manage to keep yourself focused and on track? [DG] If writing for enjoyment this is easy, I personally do not write each day, but rather log notes and outline, only writing when ready to really focus on my project. I admit that I am a binge writer and am seeking help with my problem.
10. Do you write to make money or for the love of writing? [DG] For the love of writing. I am fortunate that I have great publishers working with me that turn my writing into fantastic books. Of course, if I can make money, and maybe someday a career out of this that would be the icing on the cake.
11. What are some traditional methods of marketing you have used? [DG] Press releases, book release parties, and book signings.
12. What are some unique methods of marketing you have used? [DG] Writing short stories and posting on literary websites as a way to promote a novel; writing for websites in exchange allowing me to promote my work.
13. Do you sell through a website? If so, what’s the address? If not, why not? [DG] My website, http://www.davidsgrant.com, contains links to all of my books, interviews, and reviews.
14. Where can people order your books? [DG] At my website, http://www.davidsgrant.com and also at these locations: www.silverthought.com, www.brownpaperpublishing.net, www.amazon.com, www.barnesandnoble.com, www.target.com, and www.borders.com. My books can also be purchased at the following book stores in New York City: St. Marks Bookstore (Manhattan), Drougas Books (Manhattan), and Book Court (Brooklyn).
15. What format are your books – e-book, print, audio etc? [DG] Print
16. Will you write more books? [DG] Yes, I have a finished manuscript being reviewed and am also working on Bliss, a prequel to Bleach and Blackout.
17. What does the future hold for you and your books?[DG] I hope to continue working with my current publishers with future projects and promotion of my current catalog.
18. What was the most successful thing you did to promote your books? [DG] Anytime you can get someone to read and review your books brings potential new audiences to your work. Reviews, whether online or in print, have opened up my books to subsequent reviews and also publishers requesting my work.
19. What was the least successful thing you did to promote your books? [DG] It’s hard to say, specifically the viral online marketing what works and what doesn’t. I have learned that a well worded AND timed press release makes a world of difference for initial promotion and making people aware of your books.
This interview was done in conjunction with Nikki Leigh, author of the Book Promo 101 series. For more information, visit – www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm.
Friday, August 15, 2008
Promotional Discussion with Jill Lublin
You have been invited to share your promotional experience with others.
Your Name: Jill Lublin
1. Where you are from and where are you now?
From Detroit Michigan and I now live near San Francisco CA
2. How did you get started writing?
I owned a PR agency and I was speaking to promote my business and to inspire
others to do their publicity. One day I met a literary agent who said that I should put my knowledge into a book. So Guerrilla Publicity was born.
3. What do you do when you are not writing?
Going into nature- hiking, being by the beach and reading books, and playing
with my cats.
4. What would readers like to know about you?
They’d like to know that I am a committed person to other’s success. I am
passionate about what I do, that I love being an inspiration. I’m excited that I
can do what I love and help others. I walk my talk and do what I teach other
people to do.
5. What inspired your first book?
See above.
6. How many books have you written?
3 (Networking Magic, Guerrilla Publicity, and Get Noticed…Get Referrals) and 1 more on the way (Guerrilla Publicity 2nd edition)
7. What are the titles of your books and what genres are they?
See above for title- all title are business genre
8. How do you decide on that topic or genre? Why are you specially qualified to
write about this topic?
My books get written because of my expertise and then molded for what’s
needed in the market place today. I have been practicing getting noticed for 22
years through publicity, networking, and teaching others how to be influential.
9. How do you manage to keep yourself focused and on track when you’re
writing a book?
I have tremendous help, including writers, incredible assistants, and a great
team. It does take a village to write and promote a book.
10. Do you write to make money, for the love of writing or both?
Writing a book is an expensive proposition involves tremendous time, energy and
resources, it is not for the faint of heart. I love writing because it distributes
information out in a way that supports people on a need to know basis and
leaves a legacy of the knowledge I have for others to share.
11. What are some traditional methods of marketing you have used? Which were
the most successful?
Mostly I’ve used publicity on an ongoing basis to support all my books (list books). I also speak and give seminars which are a great marketing tool (list ccp). My ongoing publicity campaign with someone on the phone for me day in and day out for years has actually made the biggest difference.
12. What are some unique methods of marketing you have used? Which were the
most successful?
13. Do you sell through a website? If so, what’s the address? If not, why not?
Yes. www.jilllublin.com
14. Where can people order your books?
Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Jill Lublin.com, plus all bookstores around the country.
15. What format are your books – e-book, print, audio etc?
Print.
16. Will you write more books?
Yes.
17. What do you have in the works now?
I have in the works a book called Stopped in my Tracks about my accident where I fractured both ankles in January 2008. I was laid up and stopped in my tracks for close to four months. I’m also shooting a TV show Messages of Hope from around the world, and I have the second edition of Guerrilla Publicity coming out the fall of 2008. This was due to the success of the first edition.
18. What does the future hold for you and your books?
That it becomes a best seller status and that I create more TV exposure.
19. What was the most successful thing you did to promote your books?
Blog Touring and good general publicity focus. National Radio Tour, Business
magazines.
20. What was the least successful thing you did to promote your books?
Let it sit on the shelf and do nothing, which I do not do.
21. Tell us about your most recent book.
Spread the word about your business using proven public relations techniques
To win over potential clients, you need to know how to get yourself noticed. Self-promotion expert Jill Lublin shows how to cultivate relationships and get referrals by using the same strategies that publicists and brand managers use to gain more attention for their products. Get Noticed . . .Get Referrals shows you, whether you're a business owner, entrepreneur, or sales professional, the proven methods for creating memorable messages about your business.
22. What makes this book special to you?
The book is special to me because my life has always been about serving people
and helping them build their business – helping them get noticed. So this book
fits in just beautifully.
23. What sort of comments have you gotten about the content of the book?
I'm the shameless, outspoken, center of attention... but only in a room where I know people, have already built a reputation or where I have a wingman watching my back. People are often shocked to hear that in a room where I don't know anyone, I'm often a shy wallflower and have trouble breaking the ice. With this book, Jill has expertly crafted a strategy for even me to make an impact in a room full of strangers. Thank you!
Ms. Lublin, in “Get noticed… Get referrals”, describes and explains the steps and provides worksheets to personalize each step that is essential to uncork each individuals ‘genie in the bottle’. Once the ‘genie’ is unleashed …lookout world!!! Good stuff happens and the magic is in demand. Reading Get Noticed… Get Referrals by Jill Lublin is like sitting down with a cup of coffee and picking her brain. Her conversational style of writing combined with her suggestions of specific activities makes the often-daunting prospect of networking seem more a matter of practicality than a talent that some people just naturally have.
In today’s society, many of us feel pressured to accomplish more and in doing so we often neglect the art of building relationships with others. Lublin uses simple outlines and lists to help even the most time-pressured devise strategies for making connections and deepening relationships. Her ideas are practical not only for networking professionals but for anyone who wants to do a better job of connecting with people.
24. What makes this a book that other people MUST read and WHY?
Simple, easy and fast to read.
25. What people NEED to read this book and WHY?
Anybody who has a business and needs support in building it. Anyone who wants
more clients and more visibility. Anyone who doesn’t want to become the statistic of new businesses failing within the first five years.
26. What sparks your creativity? Any tips to help others spark their own creativity?
Give yourself time during the week to focus on. Anything you focus on grows. Also make sure you have time for rest and rejuvenation, for instance when I’m in nature I’m very creative. When I do nice things for myself like a massage and pampering things I find I often get creative thoughts.
27. What do you think motivates people to become authors? What motivated you to get into this unusual industry?
My book was really born out of my knowledge and that is my excitement of putting my knowledge into a form that people could pick up and enjoy!
28. Tell me about the most unusual things you have done to promote any books?
I have a great story about my friend Randi Peyser when she wanted to get her book published stood on a busy street corner and held up a sign that said “Author Seeks Publisher”. Randi believes practicing random acts of chutzpah. Although it isn’t what I did personally, this is a great example of doing what it takes to Get Noticed!
29. If a potential reader thinks that your book wouldn't interest them, what would you say to convince them to buy? I'm thinking something better than "It’s the greatest book ever." Give me something more specific :)
This is a quick easy to read, no kidding, fast, and tactical, information filled book that is oriented toward, building your team, getting you more referrals, building your client base, and having more profit.
30. Why does the topic of your book interest you? Why would it interest potential readers? Give us a hook to reel in new readers.
Only read if you think you can stand more business and more profit.
This interview was done in conjunction with Nikki Leigh, author of the Book Promo 101 series and owner of Promo 101 Virtual Blog Tours. For more information, visit – www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm and www.virtualblogtour.blogspot.com
Your Name: Jill Lublin
1. Where you are from and where are you now?
From Detroit Michigan and I now live near San Francisco CA
2. How did you get started writing?
I owned a PR agency and I was speaking to promote my business and to inspire
others to do their publicity. One day I met a literary agent who said that I should put my knowledge into a book. So Guerrilla Publicity was born.
3. What do you do when you are not writing?
Going into nature- hiking, being by the beach and reading books, and playing
with my cats.
4. What would readers like to know about you?
They’d like to know that I am a committed person to other’s success. I am
passionate about what I do, that I love being an inspiration. I’m excited that I
can do what I love and help others. I walk my talk and do what I teach other
people to do.
5. What inspired your first book?
See above.
6. How many books have you written?
3 (Networking Magic, Guerrilla Publicity, and Get Noticed…Get Referrals) and 1 more on the way (Guerrilla Publicity 2nd edition)
7. What are the titles of your books and what genres are they?
See above for title- all title are business genre
8. How do you decide on that topic or genre? Why are you specially qualified to
write about this topic?
My books get written because of my expertise and then molded for what’s
needed in the market place today. I have been practicing getting noticed for 22
years through publicity, networking, and teaching others how to be influential.
9. How do you manage to keep yourself focused and on track when you’re
writing a book?
I have tremendous help, including writers, incredible assistants, and a great
team. It does take a village to write and promote a book.
10. Do you write to make money, for the love of writing or both?
Writing a book is an expensive proposition involves tremendous time, energy and
resources, it is not for the faint of heart. I love writing because it distributes
information out in a way that supports people on a need to know basis and
leaves a legacy of the knowledge I have for others to share.
11. What are some traditional methods of marketing you have used? Which were
the most successful?
Mostly I’ve used publicity on an ongoing basis to support all my books (list books). I also speak and give seminars which are a great marketing tool (list ccp). My ongoing publicity campaign with someone on the phone for me day in and day out for years has actually made the biggest difference.
12. What are some unique methods of marketing you have used? Which were the
most successful?
13. Do you sell through a website? If so, what’s the address? If not, why not?
Yes. www.jilllublin.com
14. Where can people order your books?
Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Jill Lublin.com, plus all bookstores around the country.
15. What format are your books – e-book, print, audio etc?
Print.
16. Will you write more books?
Yes.
17. What do you have in the works now?
I have in the works a book called Stopped in my Tracks about my accident where I fractured both ankles in January 2008. I was laid up and stopped in my tracks for close to four months. I’m also shooting a TV show Messages of Hope from around the world, and I have the second edition of Guerrilla Publicity coming out the fall of 2008. This was due to the success of the first edition.
18. What does the future hold for you and your books?
That it becomes a best seller status and that I create more TV exposure.
19. What was the most successful thing you did to promote your books?
Blog Touring and good general publicity focus. National Radio Tour, Business
magazines.
20. What was the least successful thing you did to promote your books?
Let it sit on the shelf and do nothing, which I do not do.
21. Tell us about your most recent book.
Spread the word about your business using proven public relations techniques
To win over potential clients, you need to know how to get yourself noticed. Self-promotion expert Jill Lublin shows how to cultivate relationships and get referrals by using the same strategies that publicists and brand managers use to gain more attention for their products. Get Noticed . . .Get Referrals shows you, whether you're a business owner, entrepreneur, or sales professional, the proven methods for creating memorable messages about your business.
22. What makes this book special to you?
The book is special to me because my life has always been about serving people
and helping them build their business – helping them get noticed. So this book
fits in just beautifully.
23. What sort of comments have you gotten about the content of the book?
I'm the shameless, outspoken, center of attention... but only in a room where I know people, have already built a reputation or where I have a wingman watching my back. People are often shocked to hear that in a room where I don't know anyone, I'm often a shy wallflower and have trouble breaking the ice. With this book, Jill has expertly crafted a strategy for even me to make an impact in a room full of strangers. Thank you!
Ms. Lublin, in “Get noticed… Get referrals”, describes and explains the steps and provides worksheets to personalize each step that is essential to uncork each individuals ‘genie in the bottle’. Once the ‘genie’ is unleashed …lookout world!!! Good stuff happens and the magic is in demand. Reading Get Noticed… Get Referrals by Jill Lublin is like sitting down with a cup of coffee and picking her brain. Her conversational style of writing combined with her suggestions of specific activities makes the often-daunting prospect of networking seem more a matter of practicality than a talent that some people just naturally have.
In today’s society, many of us feel pressured to accomplish more and in doing so we often neglect the art of building relationships with others. Lublin uses simple outlines and lists to help even the most time-pressured devise strategies for making connections and deepening relationships. Her ideas are practical not only for networking professionals but for anyone who wants to do a better job of connecting with people.
24. What makes this a book that other people MUST read and WHY?
Simple, easy and fast to read.
25. What people NEED to read this book and WHY?
Anybody who has a business and needs support in building it. Anyone who wants
more clients and more visibility. Anyone who doesn’t want to become the statistic of new businesses failing within the first five years.
26. What sparks your creativity? Any tips to help others spark their own creativity?
Give yourself time during the week to focus on. Anything you focus on grows. Also make sure you have time for rest and rejuvenation, for instance when I’m in nature I’m very creative. When I do nice things for myself like a massage and pampering things I find I often get creative thoughts.
27. What do you think motivates people to become authors? What motivated you to get into this unusual industry?
My book was really born out of my knowledge and that is my excitement of putting my knowledge into a form that people could pick up and enjoy!
28. Tell me about the most unusual things you have done to promote any books?
I have a great story about my friend Randi Peyser when she wanted to get her book published stood on a busy street corner and held up a sign that said “Author Seeks Publisher”. Randi believes practicing random acts of chutzpah. Although it isn’t what I did personally, this is a great example of doing what it takes to Get Noticed!
29. If a potential reader thinks that your book wouldn't interest them, what would you say to convince them to buy? I'm thinking something better than "It’s the greatest book ever." Give me something more specific :)
This is a quick easy to read, no kidding, fast, and tactical, information filled book that is oriented toward, building your team, getting you more referrals, building your client base, and having more profit.
30. Why does the topic of your book interest you? Why would it interest potential readers? Give us a hook to reel in new readers.
Only read if you think you can stand more business and more profit.
This interview was done in conjunction with Nikki Leigh, author of the Book Promo 101 series and owner of Promo 101 Virtual Blog Tours. For more information, visit – www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm and www.virtualblogtour.blogspot.com
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Promotional Discussion with Jim Musgraves
You have been invited to share your promotional experience with others.
Your Name:
Jim Musgrave (a.k.a. Efraim Z. Graves)
1. Where you are from and where are you now?
Fall River, Massachusetts. San Diego, California
2. How did you get started writing?
I wrote in high school on the paper and I began seriously writing fiction after I received my Creative Writing M.A. from San Diego State University in 1987.
3. What do you do when you are not writing?
I teach college English courses (both online and in the classroom).
4. What would readers like to know about you?
I am a recovered alcoholic with 21 years sobriety.
5. What inspired your first book?
It was a non-fiction book for online writers called The Digital Scribe: A Writer’s Guide to Electronic Media (AP Professional Press, 1996). I wanted to create a book for writers new to online technology.
6. How many books have you written?
Four novels, one collection of short fiction, two non-fiction books.
7. What are the titles of your books and what genres are they?
Lucifer’s Wedding (horror), Russian Wolves (political thriller), Sins of Darkness (political thriller), Iron Maiden (alternate historical, American Civil War), The President’s Parasite and Other Stories (short stories), The Digital Scribe: A Writer’s Guide to Electronic Media (technical), and Argument Online (composition ebook).
8. How do you decide on that topic or genre?
Most of my books have a socio-political emphasis.
9. How do you manage to keep yourself focused and on track?
With non-fiction, I have an outline. With fiction, I have my imagination, and I want to see what happens next.
10. Do you write to make money or for the love of writing?
Both.
11. What are some traditional methods of marketing you have used?
I have taken out ads, done radio talk shows, developed book trailers, and used a web site and blogs.
12. What are some unique methods of marketing you have used?
Book trailers and niche ads.
13. Do you sell through a website? If so, what’s the address? If not, why not?
I publish my own titles at http://www.contempinstruct.com/books/books.htm
14. Where can people order your books?
Any major online retailer and at my site.
15. What format are your books – e-book, print, audio etc?
Print and ebook. Two of my short stories are in audio format sold through Sniplits.com http://www.sniplits.com
16. Will you write more books?
Yes, as I would die without writing.
17. What do you have in the works now?
A horror fantasy called The Night Visitors.
18. What does the future hold for you and your books?
As the public becomes more aware of independent authors and publishers, I believe my work will become well known. There is, in my opinion, a definite move away from big publishing.
19. What was the most successful thing you did to promote your books?
The Blog Tour with promotional specialist, Nikki Leigh.
20. What was the least successful thing you did to promote your books?
I took out an ad in a Civil War newspaper, and then I sent my novel in to be reviewed. The person “assigned” to review the book never read the book and gave it a horrible review based totally on what he saw on the cover! Luckily, I was able to write to the editor and prevent the review from being published.
Your Name:
Jim Musgrave (a.k.a. Efraim Z. Graves)
1. Where you are from and where are you now?
Fall River, Massachusetts. San Diego, California
2. How did you get started writing?
I wrote in high school on the paper and I began seriously writing fiction after I received my Creative Writing M.A. from San Diego State University in 1987.
3. What do you do when you are not writing?
I teach college English courses (both online and in the classroom).
4. What would readers like to know about you?
I am a recovered alcoholic with 21 years sobriety.
5. What inspired your first book?
It was a non-fiction book for online writers called The Digital Scribe: A Writer’s Guide to Electronic Media (AP Professional Press, 1996). I wanted to create a book for writers new to online technology.
6. How many books have you written?
Four novels, one collection of short fiction, two non-fiction books.
7. What are the titles of your books and what genres are they?
Lucifer’s Wedding (horror), Russian Wolves (political thriller), Sins of Darkness (political thriller), Iron Maiden (alternate historical, American Civil War), The President’s Parasite and Other Stories (short stories), The Digital Scribe: A Writer’s Guide to Electronic Media (technical), and Argument Online (composition ebook).
8. How do you decide on that topic or genre?
Most of my books have a socio-political emphasis.
9. How do you manage to keep yourself focused and on track?
With non-fiction, I have an outline. With fiction, I have my imagination, and I want to see what happens next.
10. Do you write to make money or for the love of writing?
Both.
11. What are some traditional methods of marketing you have used?
I have taken out ads, done radio talk shows, developed book trailers, and used a web site and blogs.
12. What are some unique methods of marketing you have used?
Book trailers and niche ads.
13. Do you sell through a website? If so, what’s the address? If not, why not?
I publish my own titles at http://www.contempinstruct.com/books/books.htm
14. Where can people order your books?
Any major online retailer and at my site.
15. What format are your books – e-book, print, audio etc?
Print and ebook. Two of my short stories are in audio format sold through Sniplits.com http://www.sniplits.com
16. Will you write more books?
Yes, as I would die without writing.
17. What do you have in the works now?
A horror fantasy called The Night Visitors.
18. What does the future hold for you and your books?
As the public becomes more aware of independent authors and publishers, I believe my work will become well known. There is, in my opinion, a definite move away from big publishing.
19. What was the most successful thing you did to promote your books?
The Blog Tour with promotional specialist, Nikki Leigh.
20. What was the least successful thing you did to promote your books?
I took out an ad in a Civil War newspaper, and then I sent my novel in to be reviewed. The person “assigned” to review the book never read the book and gave it a horrible review based totally on what he saw on the cover! Luckily, I was able to write to the editor and prevent the review from being published.
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Promotional Interview with Pamela S Thibodeaux
You have been invited to share your promotional experience with others.
Your Name:Pamela S Thibodeaux
1. Where you are from and where are you now?
PST: I am a native of Louisiana and currently reside in my hometown of Iowa, Louisiana (about 15 miles east of Lake Charles)
2. How did you get started writing?
PST: While pregnant with my daughter, who is now 25, I read one-too-many disappointing romances and thought "I can do better than that!" I'm still not sure if the book was really all that bad or if that was just one of those hormonal moments, but that was the moment my writing career began.
3. What do you do when you are not writing?
PST: I work full-time as an Insurance Sales Producer so my writing time is limited, however when I'm not actively working on a project, I'm usually editing or promoting my career.
4. What would readers like to know about you?
PST: That Jesus is as real to me as He is in the lives of my characters.
5. What inspired your first book?
PST: My first book penned, Tempered Hearts, is now published and was inspired by the thought of a woman veterinarian and a rancher who clash from the moment they meet. She is young, innocent, inexperienced, but a whiz when it comes to horses. Though not much older, he is arrogant, experienced, and jaded when it comes to love. Only when they realize the truth in a statement made by his grandfather (who hires her for the summer) can they make peace with their pasts and open up to the love between them. That statement….. “Only when hearts are tempered, minds are opened and wills are softened can man discern the will of God for his life.”
6. How many books have you written?
PST: I have four full length novels and two short stories published as well as two novels and another short story due out in 2008. I have one more full length novel and a gift book complete that are looking for a home.
7. What are the titles of your books and what genres are they?
PST: I write "Inspirational with an Edge!" romantic fiction. Tempered Hearts, Tempered Dreams & Tempered Fire (books 1-3 in 5 part series) and The Inheritance are my full-length novels. Cathy's Angel & Choices are short stories. The upcoming releases are, Tempered Joy and The Visionary (full length) and A Hero for Jessica (short).
8. How do you decide on that topic or genre?
PST: When I initially started writing I wrote romance. Period. In 1989 I recommitted my life to Christ and committed my writing to Him, praying that I not write "just another romance" but something that will glorify Him. That's when my focus changed to incorporate the characters' faith into the plot.
9. How do you manage to keep yourself focused and on track?
PST: I'm not sure that I do, LOL! Half the time, I just fumble along on a wing and a prayer, doing what I can do, when I can do it and let things fall where they may. One thing that I've found that helps me is to make "to do" lists. I'm not a huge goal setter in the traditional sense, because I feel pressured and then guilty if my goals don't materialize in the time frame I've allotted so these lists work better for me. Of course as I scratch off one thing, three are added, but this helps me prioritize and see my progress. Having a list also helps me refocus and resume when I put everything aside to do edits.
10. Do you write to make money or for the love of writing?
PST: Oh, I LOVE this question! Make money? Does anyone really write to make money? Yes, I'm sure there are those that do...especially when you reach a certain level of success. However, for me, the message is more important than the money. Of course, my one way to know that that message is getting out there is by the number of sales. :-)
11. What are some traditional methods of marketing you have used?
PST: Book signings, press releases, speaking engagements, interviews, reviews.
12. What are some unique methods of marketing you have used?
PST: One unique way is to make what I call an "envelope flyer;" a small flyer (about the size of a bookmark) that gives a brief description of my books. Leaving this with your tip at a restaurant, passing out to people you see reading on an airplane or anywhere else, leave with bank tellers, anyone and everyone you can think of can help get your name out. Does it work? In my experience, yes. I've seen an increase in sales when I do this.
13. Do you sell through a website?
PST: If so, what's the address? If not, why not? Although you can find out about my books and read excerpts on my website http://www.pamelathibodeaux.com, I don't sell my books there because they are available through the publisher's websites.
14. Where can people order your books?
PST: Ebooks can be purchased through the publisher's websites and print books through Amazon.com or from their favorite book store.
Link to buy Tempered Series E-books: www.comstar-games.com/csgstore/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=25_27
Link to buy The Inheritance E-Book: www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=410
Link to buy all full-length titles @ Amazon: www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/search-handle-url/002-3165282-8434425
Link to find short E-books @ The Wild Rose Press: www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=index&manufacturers_id=142
15. What format are your books - e-book, print, audio etc?
PST: Ebook and print.
16. Will you write more books?
PST: I sure hope so! I'd love to try my hand at writing at least one historical and I pray daily that God gives me more stories to write.
17. What do you have in the works now?
PST: 1 novel, 1 short story and 1 script are currently "in the works."
18. What does the future hold for you and your books?
PST: Great success! Isn't that the prayer of every writer? :-)
19. What was the most successful thing you did to promote your books?
PST: I'm not sure I can pinpoint one single thing except maybe an ad in Romantic Times.
20. What was the least successful thing you did to promote your books?
PST: I don't think any form of promotion could be considered "unsuccessful" because every form of promotion is a step forward.
This interview was done in conjunction with Nikki Leigh, author of the Book Promo 101 series. For more information, visit - www.nikkileigh.com/promo.h
Your Name:Pamela S Thibodeaux
1. Where you are from and where are you now?
PST: I am a native of Louisiana and currently reside in my hometown of Iowa, Louisiana (about 15 miles east of Lake Charles)
2. How did you get started writing?
PST: While pregnant with my daughter, who is now 25, I read one-too-many disappointing romances and thought "I can do better than that!" I'm still not sure if the book was really all that bad or if that was just one of those hormonal moments, but that was the moment my writing career began.
3. What do you do when you are not writing?
PST: I work full-time as an Insurance Sales Producer so my writing time is limited, however when I'm not actively working on a project, I'm usually editing or promoting my career.
4. What would readers like to know about you?
PST: That Jesus is as real to me as He is in the lives of my characters.
5. What inspired your first book?
PST: My first book penned, Tempered Hearts, is now published and was inspired by the thought of a woman veterinarian and a rancher who clash from the moment they meet. She is young, innocent, inexperienced, but a whiz when it comes to horses. Though not much older, he is arrogant, experienced, and jaded when it comes to love. Only when they realize the truth in a statement made by his grandfather (who hires her for the summer) can they make peace with their pasts and open up to the love between them. That statement….. “Only when hearts are tempered, minds are opened and wills are softened can man discern the will of God for his life.”
6. How many books have you written?
PST: I have four full length novels and two short stories published as well as two novels and another short story due out in 2008. I have one more full length novel and a gift book complete that are looking for a home.
7. What are the titles of your books and what genres are they?
PST: I write "Inspirational with an Edge!" romantic fiction. Tempered Hearts, Tempered Dreams & Tempered Fire (books 1-3 in 5 part series) and The Inheritance are my full-length novels. Cathy's Angel & Choices are short stories. The upcoming releases are, Tempered Joy and The Visionary (full length) and A Hero for Jessica (short).
8. How do you decide on that topic or genre?
PST: When I initially started writing I wrote romance. Period. In 1989 I recommitted my life to Christ and committed my writing to Him, praying that I not write "just another romance" but something that will glorify Him. That's when my focus changed to incorporate the characters' faith into the plot.
9. How do you manage to keep yourself focused and on track?
PST: I'm not sure that I do, LOL! Half the time, I just fumble along on a wing and a prayer, doing what I can do, when I can do it and let things fall where they may. One thing that I've found that helps me is to make "to do" lists. I'm not a huge goal setter in the traditional sense, because I feel pressured and then guilty if my goals don't materialize in the time frame I've allotted so these lists work better for me. Of course as I scratch off one thing, three are added, but this helps me prioritize and see my progress. Having a list also helps me refocus and resume when I put everything aside to do edits.
10. Do you write to make money or for the love of writing?
PST: Oh, I LOVE this question! Make money? Does anyone really write to make money? Yes, I'm sure there are those that do...especially when you reach a certain level of success. However, for me, the message is more important than the money. Of course, my one way to know that that message is getting out there is by the number of sales. :-)
11. What are some traditional methods of marketing you have used?
PST: Book signings, press releases, speaking engagements, interviews, reviews.
12. What are some unique methods of marketing you have used?
PST: One unique way is to make what I call an "envelope flyer;" a small flyer (about the size of a bookmark) that gives a brief description of my books. Leaving this with your tip at a restaurant, passing out to people you see reading on an airplane or anywhere else, leave with bank tellers, anyone and everyone you can think of can help get your name out. Does it work? In my experience, yes. I've seen an increase in sales when I do this.
13. Do you sell through a website?
PST: If so, what's the address? If not, why not? Although you can find out about my books and read excerpts on my website http://www.pamelathibodeaux.com, I don't sell my books there because they are available through the publisher's websites.
14. Where can people order your books?
PST: Ebooks can be purchased through the publisher's websites and print books through Amazon.com or from their favorite book store.
Link to buy Tempered Series E-books: www.comstar-games.com/csgstore/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=25_27
Link to buy The Inheritance E-Book: www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=410
Link to buy all full-length titles @ Amazon: www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/search-handle-url/002-3165282-8434425
Link to find short E-books @ The Wild Rose Press: www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=index&manufacturers_id=142
15. What format are your books - e-book, print, audio etc?
PST: Ebook and print.
16. Will you write more books?
PST: I sure hope so! I'd love to try my hand at writing at least one historical and I pray daily that God gives me more stories to write.
17. What do you have in the works now?
PST: 1 novel, 1 short story and 1 script are currently "in the works."
18. What does the future hold for you and your books?
PST: Great success! Isn't that the prayer of every writer? :-)
19. What was the most successful thing you did to promote your books?
PST: I'm not sure I can pinpoint one single thing except maybe an ad in Romantic Times.
20. What was the least successful thing you did to promote your books?
PST: I don't think any form of promotion could be considered "unsuccessful" because every form of promotion is a step forward.
This interview was done in conjunction with Nikki Leigh, author of the Book Promo 101 series. For more information, visit - www.nikkileigh.com/promo.h
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
