Writing Addictive Fiction
It’s time for a summer celebration. The glorious summer weather is here, and with it (at least in my corner of the world) the easing of COVID restrictions.
To celebrate, I’m having a summer sale.
For a limited time, I’ve discounted Continue Reading
Finding this old photo of me signing my first novel reminded me how far my writing career has come.
This photo was taken at Abraxas Books on Denman Island in October 2012. I was signing copies of Secret Sky with its original cover and title. Abraxas has sold more Gift Legacy trade paperbacks than any other indie bookstore! (Thanks, Abraxas!)
1. I’ve completed SEVEN books in the Gift Legacy, an urban fantasy series about Emelynn Taylor and a secret society of Fliers who live among us and have the gift of flight.
2. The books have received over 225 reviews like this recent one from Midwest Book Review:
Recently, I took a huge step forward in my career. I’ve signed with a publicist: Mickey Mikkelson of Creative Edge Publicity.
Why? The business of being an author includes many tasks. Though it’s taken me a while, I think I have a handle on most of them:
Promotion has always been a weak spot. I’ve yet to master finding quality promotional opportunities that are a good match. And I’d rather chew off an arm than make a cold call to a book reviewer, blogger, or podcaster.
I know it makes no sense, especially after all the work I’ve put into the books. I’m proud of The Gift Legacy and want the books to find new audiences. Emelynn Taylor flies—I want my books to fly, too!
While studying business at UBC, one of the core lessons was recognizing your weaknesses and putting a plan in place to address them. I’ve sidestepped my lack of promotion finesse for far too long.
And Mickey has kept me hopping since January. He has organized more publicity in a month than I’ve managed in a decade. In fact, Mickey has kept me so busy I’ve not had time for much else this month. If I’m not prepping for a podcast, I’m writing guest blog posts or answering interview questions.
The following are just a sample of the gigs Creative Edge has already organized for me. PLEASE share the links on your own social media and “up vote”, “like”, or mark them as “helpful.” Every little bit helps.
Secret Sky reviewed by Anthony Avina
Author appearance on Minddog TV
Character interview with Emelynn Taylor hosted by J.M. Northrup
Author interview on Urban Lit Magazine
Secret Sky featured on Readers’ Entertainment Magazine
There are more. If you’re interested, you can find all the links on my website’s “featured on” page.
I’ve queried a few literary agents about the new book, Blood Mark, and had some interest, but so far haven’t had an offer. I’m not giving up yet, though. I’m also making progress with Crimson Frost, my short Christmas story. Hopefully, it won’t take me until then to finish it!
And if you still haven’t picked up Secret Sky, the eBook is just $2.99. Get your copy from Kindle with one click right here. And if kindle or eBooks aren’t your preference, click on the bookstore tab for other purchase options (or just click on the covers below).
Season’s Greetings from my home to yours
Are you getting your Santa on? Our tree is up and decorated, as is the wreath above the fireplace. The outdoor lights are strung and mostly turn on/off at the designated times; rain plays havoc with the timers and some days they need a little coaxing.
This year, more than ever, we need the cheerful lights. I love it when darkness falls, and the twinkling lights take over. We spark a fire, pour a glass of wine, and soak up the comforting Christmas glow.
The days leading up to Christmas will be quieter this year, but we’ll Zoom with far-flung family and enjoy their company long distance, along with fond reminiscences of Christmases past. For Christmas dinner, I’m preparing beef Wellington with a side of Rumpledethumps (mashed spuds with cabbage, onion, and cheese – SO good), and something green. Beans? Not sure yet.
We’re very lucky here on Denman Island to be able to source locally so much of what goes on our table. Corlan Vineyards produces award-winning wines. Fresh duck and chicken eggs are available all over the island. Neighbouring farms raise chickens, pork, beef, and lamb. Two Roads Farm grows a cornucopia of vegetables, and our general store carries pretty much everything else you might need.
Shopping local is more important than ever. The pandemic has hit artisans particularly hard with the lack of tourists and trade fairs. Many of their wares can be purchased at Abraxas Books and Gifts and the Denman Craft Shop. Each offers a wide selection of thoughtful gifts for everyone on your not-naughty list (and even some for the naughty crew).
Eggnog is a must, and I think I’ll dig out a puzzle and set it up on the card table. And we can’t forget Christmas carols. Following are some YouTube renditions I found for you. Enjoy the season, however you celebrate it. Stay safe and let’s hope 2021 kicks COVID to the curb.
XO
Jo-Anne
And if you’re looking for an escape this holiday season, the gift legacy is available in a boxed set at an exceptional price for a limited time. Season’s greetings.
Everybody wishes they could fly – until it happens.
Banner photo freestocks-org on unsplash