Sunday, July 30, 2006
Cover art
I'm thrilled to bits here, because the cover for my first Juno novel, The Strangeling, will be this gorgeous image by artist Linda Joyce Franks. It's so perfect for the story, I love it to bits.
Friday, July 28, 2006
A week in the life of…
It has been one of those odd weeks, where not a lot of actual new writing got done while I dealt with all the other stuff a writer has to do. I’m closing shop early today because we're out on the town tonight for a much-needed session of fun, but for those who are interested in the writing life, here's how the week went on that side of things:
· Completed and subbed a short story, started a second, plotted a third.
· Set up spreadsheets for 06-07 (yes, we're this far into the financial year and I’m only doing it now, naughty me, but that’s me getting better at the job, honestly!)
· Chatted with fantasy editor over various, including possible cover art; got confirmation from artist on an image we both loved and hoped to get for THE STRANGELING (yippee! It's an artist whose work I admire immensely, so I'm very happy indeed. More news on that soon)
· Chatted excitedly with agent and contemporary editor about first reviews for DOUBLE DARE (editor is having a drink in my honour at the RWA conference, I couldn’t be more thrilled!)
· Prepared a published short for resubmission elsewhere (transcribing the editor’s edits, learning along the way)
· Dealt with a bit of promo for DOUBLE DARE, booked a slot in Romance sells and filled out online forms, this also involved the trepidation of setting up paypal account, eek.
· Began editing a two-year-old partial of a novel, ready to crack on with the full next week. This mostly seemed to involve me making notes to insert more action scenes, and the current word count going down LOL
· Added to my list of web updates. It’s getting long, so that will need doing soon, too.
Real life did it's best to scupper one whole day, but I pulled back a couple of hours after a hospital session (nothing unusual for me.) Most full time writers are way busier than me, but it gives you an idea of how all-over-the-place it can be. Come Monday, I’ll be in heavy writing mode on UNVEILING THE SORCERESS, which will last through to the end of September. Before Monday, I hope to finish up that short I began, if not I’ll be doing it in the evenings, which is also a good routine for me, variety is one way to freshen up the mind.
On a different subject –- music -- I’m kicking myself because I realised I missed MY RUIN playing locally, on their first UK tour. Boohoo! I badly wanted to go, and just totally overlooked getting tickets (which is how I usually keep it in mind, with them stuck all over the walls so I can’t miss them.) I’ve also just realised I forgot to blog about other gigs we went to recently, including COVENANT and THE SISTERS OF MERCY. Oops, I am supposed to be doing that here, too. Mind like a sieve, or fiction overriding the facts of life -- you decide. Briefly, Covenant were superb. We had a fabulous time with those lovely industrial strength Swedes. The Sisters were good, if not on top form. I made allowances, because we’re all getting on :-) and they were mid way on the longest tour they’ve ever done (I felt harrowed just reading the schedule.) There was also the no-small-fact that The Von had a broken rib and was barely able to move. Thought he did pretty good, considering. We had a great time at the Leeds gig, but we were up on the balcony. People in the audience itself were somewhat swamped in that old goth magic, otherwise known as dry ice, hehe.
Right, got to dash and get some stuff done before playtime. Hope you all have a super weekend!
· Completed and subbed a short story, started a second, plotted a third.
· Set up spreadsheets for 06-07 (yes, we're this far into the financial year and I’m only doing it now, naughty me, but that’s me getting better at the job, honestly!)
· Chatted with fantasy editor over various, including possible cover art; got confirmation from artist on an image we both loved and hoped to get for THE STRANGELING (yippee! It's an artist whose work I admire immensely, so I'm very happy indeed. More news on that soon)
· Chatted excitedly with agent and contemporary editor about first reviews for DOUBLE DARE (editor is having a drink in my honour at the RWA conference, I couldn’t be more thrilled!)
· Prepared a published short for resubmission elsewhere (transcribing the editor’s edits, learning along the way)
· Dealt with a bit of promo for DOUBLE DARE, booked a slot in Romance sells and filled out online forms, this also involved the trepidation of setting up paypal account, eek.
· Began editing a two-year-old partial of a novel, ready to crack on with the full next week. This mostly seemed to involve me making notes to insert more action scenes, and the current word count going down LOL
· Added to my list of web updates. It’s getting long, so that will need doing soon, too.
Real life did it's best to scupper one whole day, but I pulled back a couple of hours after a hospital session (nothing unusual for me.) Most full time writers are way busier than me, but it gives you an idea of how all-over-the-place it can be. Come Monday, I’ll be in heavy writing mode on UNVEILING THE SORCERESS, which will last through to the end of September. Before Monday, I hope to finish up that short I began, if not I’ll be doing it in the evenings, which is also a good routine for me, variety is one way to freshen up the mind.
On a different subject –- music -- I’m kicking myself because I realised I missed MY RUIN playing locally, on their first UK tour. Boohoo! I badly wanted to go, and just totally overlooked getting tickets (which is how I usually keep it in mind, with them stuck all over the walls so I can’t miss them.) I’ve also just realised I forgot to blog about other gigs we went to recently, including COVENANT and THE SISTERS OF MERCY. Oops, I am supposed to be doing that here, too. Mind like a sieve, or fiction overriding the facts of life -- you decide. Briefly, Covenant were superb. We had a fabulous time with those lovely industrial strength Swedes. The Sisters were good, if not on top form. I made allowances, because we’re all getting on :-) and they were mid way on the longest tour they’ve ever done (I felt harrowed just reading the schedule.) There was also the no-small-fact that The Von had a broken rib and was barely able to move. Thought he did pretty good, considering. We had a great time at the Leeds gig, but we were up on the balcony. People in the audience itself were somewhat swamped in that old goth magic, otherwise known as dry ice, hehe.
Right, got to dash and get some stuff done before playtime. Hope you all have a super weekend!
Thursday, July 27, 2006
The Berkley Babes blog
We're up and running! To stop by the new Berkley authors blog, just click on the banner. Come over and say hi. :-)
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
Sex in space?
I've been chuckling away here. Over at Violet Blue's blog, Violet is looking at current media attention to the subject of sex in space. As a taster, the diagram featured right indicates what we can look forward to in terms of dressing up for the occasion. Exciting stuff, huh! So, zero gravity. Can we look forward to fun, or frustration? Violet considers this very subject. For those that may not know, Violet is an editor of erotica and a sex educator -- a sex educator with a great sense of humour. Click HERE to read her comments and guidance on the subject. NB: this is an adult content blog. You've been warned!
Sunday, July 23, 2006
Woohoo, 5 stars from JERR!
Caye Kim has reviewed my forthcoming novel, DOUBLE DARE on behalf of Just Erotic Romance Reviews. She's given it 5 Stars and a heat level of "orgasmic"! I'm thrilled to bits with her reactions and her comments, so humour me while I post the whole thing! :-) Here's what she has to say. Abby Douglas has enjoyed her share of men, but realizes that being a gorgeous investment manager extraordinaire wreaks havoc on the egos of the men she meets. Hoping that a little white lie about her profession will help her with the stranger she meets in her offices elevator, Abby tells Zac Bordino she’s a receptionist. Soon after meeting Abby, Zac discovers that not only did she lie about being a receptionist, but she’s also the mastermind behind his company’s investments. Amidst Zac’s growing attraction to Abby, he must decide if she’s working an angle or if she truly does care about him as he has come to care about her. From hot nights in London to sexy nights in Paris, can Zac and Abby overcome the lies and deception or will it tear them apart?
This is a beautiful story of heart warming emotion and sizzling sex that shows that even the tiniest of lies can roll into something out of control. Ms. Walker skillfully captured the essence of the first meetings between a man and woman and the emotions that can evolve from something as simple as a shared moment in an elevator. Abby and Zac come together in such page burning and erotic sex, that while I enjoyed this book immensely, there were several times I had to put it down and go searching for a cold shower. Zac’s turmoil over withholding the truth from Abby makes him an endearing character and you are almost willing to overlook how manipulative his behavior really is. Abby’s initial behavior with men has you keeping your fingers crossed that she’ll have her happy ending, because even Abby discovers that in a torrid affair without love, you can feel completely alone. There is a small secondary romance that further drives home the point that a white lie is still a lie and true relationships can be built on nothing but the truth and trust. For those fans of Ms. Walker’s shorter works, you will immediately fall in love with Double Dare. From the emotional interactions of the characters to all of the heart stopping sex, this book is a brilliant romance that has definitely earned a place on my keeper shelf.
Can you see my smile from where you are? :-)
Friday, July 21, 2006
Juno books early 2007 schedule
Here is the Juno books schedule for early 2007. It's wonderful to see my fantasy listed amongst so many notable and fascinating titles. The line launches in October with Jade Tiger by Jenn Reese. Not long to wait now!
I've also had a preview of some potential cover art for my two Juno novels, THE STRANGELING and UNVEILING THE SORCERESS. Suffice it to say I melted in a puddle of ecstacy! This is one of the real high points of being an author, seeing it all come together: the right home for your work, a canny editor to work with, and packaging to die for. I'll share as soon as I can. I'll also be getting proper web pages up for these two soon.
I've also had a preview of some potential cover art for my two Juno novels, THE STRANGELING and UNVEILING THE SORCERESS. Suffice it to say I melted in a puddle of ecstacy! This is one of the real high points of being an author, seeing it all come together: the right home for your work, a canny editor to work with, and packaging to die for. I'll share as soon as I can. I'll also be getting proper web pages up for these two soon.
Thursday, July 20, 2006
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
British author submitting to a US market?
A little while ago Wendywoo and I found ourselves giving advice to a new British writer who wanted to sub to US publishers. As I responded to the writer's questions it made me think about all the little things I do to present my subs in a way that will appeal to an international readership, and not jar for a US editor. I give some general thoughts about subbing to the US on my “tips for writers” page, but I’d never really gathered my in-depth strategy on this subject before, so thought I’d post my tips here, too. This is only what has worked for me, but it has worked…
The writers main question was about the necessity of changing words or phrases to American versions, for example changing “pavement” to “sidewalk,” or “handbag” to “purse.” Valid question. I have always made a conscious effort not to include things that will jar, however, I don’t change things to sound American rather than British (although this sometimes happens in editing, and compromise on behalf of the author at this point is essential.) So, I try to get around it by compromising as I go along. Instead of saying my heroine walks along the "pavement" or "sidewalk," I might say she "walks along the street." There's always a simple, valid alternative that covers both cultures, your job is to find it.
US publishing is WORLD publishing. We have to remember that if our subs are taken they will be sold worldwide, so a British writer trying to sound American is going to turn off a good proportion of the international readership. Also, I think it's important to remember that it is the difference that appeals. US readers who choose to read a British/European set book want an authentic flavour, and we have a duty to give them that, but in broad terms. Avoid colloquialisms, and think about what appeals in international terms. Consider popular film, and the British books that sell on both side of the pond -- James Bond, Four weddings, Notting Hill, authors such as Carole Matthews or Katie Fforde, to name just a few examples.
So, don't compromise the British flavour, but don’t include anything so local it’s going to throw the reader. At the sub stage it comes down to how accessible it is to the editor. Editors are busy people; we don't want to give them extra things to do if we can possibly avoid it, because that might be the make or break of getting that contract. If they take your story/novel they are going to want it in US spelling because it’s going to be a US publication (wherever it’s set) so, the first thing I do is put my Word docs into the US spelling option. Easy. One big worry taken care of, for me AND the editor if she/he wants to publish my work. Beyond spelling, speech marks are double in the US “like this,” instead of ‘like this’ with most UK publishers. Do it straight away, don’t give your editor anything that will seem like an unusual hurdle as they read. Always try to see it from the editor’s point of view.
The hardest aspect is that some words genuinely have different meanings Stateside, and this is where it’s hard to know in advance. If your work is bought the odd word or phrase can be queried, but I try to learn all the time, remembering what words or phrases may cause problems. Erotica in particular seems to be littered with differences! “Knickers” are “panties” in the US, and US editors have consistently changed that term in my work, so I tend to put my heroines in G- strings nowadays, if they are wearing undies at all. :-) “Suspenders” are called “garters” in the US, so since I’ve learned that you’ll mostly find my heroines in hold up stockings, likewise, this avoids the tights/pantyhose dilemma. The “arse”/”ass” problem I often sidestep (with the utmost sophistication) by opting for “derrière.” :-) The list is seemingly endless. The cultural difference that makes me laugh most is what we would call a “bum bag” is called a “fanny pack” in the states. Given that a “bum” is a “tramp” in the US and a “fanny” is a “front bottom” not a “back bottom” in the UK, my advice is just don’t go there! (as if you'd want to ;-))
One day I’ll do a full list for my site, for fun. But let's get back to serious advice now. If you're truly serious about cracking the US market, get yourself a US critique partner. Maybe someone who (in return) is looking to publish a British set historical, who needs that British eye to point out anything that might make their work even more authentic to the place and time. I’ve travelled and lived all over the world, and I know that has helped me greatly, but I would never have had the level of acceptance and the understanding of subtle differences I have, without my wonderful critique partner, Zaz. I hasten to add, even though I work hard, my own margin for error still seems to be far too HUGE. :-)
In conclusion, don’t compromise the British/European flavour of your work, but look to spellings and learn about difference in meaning to ensure your story holds broad and instant appeal. As ever, my personal advice is to have fun with the challenge, and you can’t go wrong. Good luck!
PS: I am always willing to answer questions about crossing the pond with your work, so do mail me saskiawalker @ gmail.com (no gaps.) I'm always happy to help if I can.
The writers main question was about the necessity of changing words or phrases to American versions, for example changing “pavement” to “sidewalk,” or “handbag” to “purse.” Valid question. I have always made a conscious effort not to include things that will jar, however, I don’t change things to sound American rather than British (although this sometimes happens in editing, and compromise on behalf of the author at this point is essential.) So, I try to get around it by compromising as I go along. Instead of saying my heroine walks along the "pavement" or "sidewalk," I might say she "walks along the street." There's always a simple, valid alternative that covers both cultures, your job is to find it.
US publishing is WORLD publishing. We have to remember that if our subs are taken they will be sold worldwide, so a British writer trying to sound American is going to turn off a good proportion of the international readership. Also, I think it's important to remember that it is the difference that appeals. US readers who choose to read a British/European set book want an authentic flavour, and we have a duty to give them that, but in broad terms. Avoid colloquialisms, and think about what appeals in international terms. Consider popular film, and the British books that sell on both side of the pond -- James Bond, Four weddings, Notting Hill, authors such as Carole Matthews or Katie Fforde, to name just a few examples.
So, don't compromise the British flavour, but don’t include anything so local it’s going to throw the reader. At the sub stage it comes down to how accessible it is to the editor. Editors are busy people; we don't want to give them extra things to do if we can possibly avoid it, because that might be the make or break of getting that contract. If they take your story/novel they are going to want it in US spelling because it’s going to be a US publication (wherever it’s set) so, the first thing I do is put my Word docs into the US spelling option. Easy. One big worry taken care of, for me AND the editor if she/he wants to publish my work. Beyond spelling, speech marks are double in the US “like this,” instead of ‘like this’ with most UK publishers. Do it straight away, don’t give your editor anything that will seem like an unusual hurdle as they read. Always try to see it from the editor’s point of view.
The hardest aspect is that some words genuinely have different meanings Stateside, and this is where it’s hard to know in advance. If your work is bought the odd word or phrase can be queried, but I try to learn all the time, remembering what words or phrases may cause problems. Erotica in particular seems to be littered with differences! “Knickers” are “panties” in the US, and US editors have consistently changed that term in my work, so I tend to put my heroines in G- strings nowadays, if they are wearing undies at all. :-) “Suspenders” are called “garters” in the US, so since I’ve learned that you’ll mostly find my heroines in hold up stockings, likewise, this avoids the tights/pantyhose dilemma. The “arse”/”ass” problem I often sidestep (with the utmost sophistication) by opting for “derrière.” :-) The list is seemingly endless. The cultural difference that makes me laugh most is what we would call a “bum bag” is called a “fanny pack” in the states. Given that a “bum” is a “tramp” in the US and a “fanny” is a “front bottom” not a “back bottom” in the UK, my advice is just don’t go there! (as if you'd want to ;-))
One day I’ll do a full list for my site, for fun. But let's get back to serious advice now. If you're truly serious about cracking the US market, get yourself a US critique partner. Maybe someone who (in return) is looking to publish a British set historical, who needs that British eye to point out anything that might make their work even more authentic to the place and time. I’ve travelled and lived all over the world, and I know that has helped me greatly, but I would never have had the level of acceptance and the understanding of subtle differences I have, without my wonderful critique partner, Zaz. I hasten to add, even though I work hard, my own margin for error still seems to be far too HUGE. :-)
In conclusion, don’t compromise the British/European flavour of your work, but look to spellings and learn about difference in meaning to ensure your story holds broad and instant appeal. As ever, my personal advice is to have fun with the challenge, and you can’t go wrong. Good luck!
PS: I am always willing to answer questions about crossing the pond with your work, so do mail me saskiawalker @ gmail.com (no gaps.) I'm always happy to help if I can.
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
Thought for the day
A good writer can make the mind imagine.
A great writer can make the mind believe.
(too hot to blog properly -- record high temps, the roads are melting in Yorkshire!)
Saturday, July 15, 2006
First review for DOUBLE DARE
One of the hardest parts of being a writer is when the book is ready to go out and you're waiting for the reviewer's responses. Two months to the publication date, so I'm at that stage now and it’s nerve wracking, to say the least! Overall I've been very lucky with reviews for my novellas and short stories, but with DOUBLE DARE being my first single title print novel, I'm on tenterhooks!
This morning I got my first review, and a deeply held breath was exhaled (well, one of them ;-) Here's what the reviewer had to say:
Outstandingly sexy and superb, this red-hot romance is a fast-paced tale that will leave your head spinning. Romance and intrigue are the bases for this story, with exceptional characters and some interesting secondary characters that will amuse and entertain you. A witty dialogue and some sizzling sex scenes are woven in, tying this all up together for one magnificent read.
4 cups - a keeper
Wateena
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance
Reviewer for Karen Find Out About New Books
Made my day, I have to say! In other news, I bunked off early yesterday and we went out on the town. Enjoyed one of my favorite ciders, THATCHERS, in a real ale pub and a gorgeous chili garlic palak curry to end with. Feeling a bit refreshed and renewed now, much needed. More blogging later – some thoughts on short stories I’ve been mulling over.
This morning I got my first review, and a deeply held breath was exhaled (well, one of them ;-) Here's what the reviewer had to say:
Outstandingly sexy and superb, this red-hot romance is a fast-paced tale that will leave your head spinning. Romance and intrigue are the bases for this story, with exceptional characters and some interesting secondary characters that will amuse and entertain you. A witty dialogue and some sizzling sex scenes are woven in, tying this all up together for one magnificent read.4 cups - a keeper
Wateena
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance
Reviewer for Karen Find Out About New Books
Made my day, I have to say! In other news, I bunked off early yesterday and we went out on the town. Enjoyed one of my favorite ciders, THATCHERS, in a real ale pub and a gorgeous chili garlic palak curry to end with. Feeling a bit refreshed and renewed now, much needed. More blogging later – some thoughts on short stories I’ve been mulling over.
Thursday, July 13, 2006
Coming soon..
I'm going to be part of an exciting new blog, coming soon from the "Berkley Babes." Berkley authors will take turns posting, with authors writing in several different genres -- and from all over the globe! We'll also have guest blogs from Berkley editors, and agents. The blog is in the design stage right now, with a sassy look and feel emerging. I'm very excited to be involved and will post more details ASAP.
Check it out
Berkley author Heather Waters has introduced an exciting new blogging idea, which promises to be a great resource for the romance community. Authors are posting about the source of the ideas for their latest publications at The Idea Boutique. I’m scheduled to post about the inspiration/s for DOUBLE DARE on the eve of its publication at the end of September. The blog has a bunch of fascinating posts up there already, and a great schedule ahead. Check it out here. Interesting stuff!
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
Creative thoughts
"I saw the angel in the marble and I carved until I set him free."
Michelangelo
Isn't that amazing? I've always loved that idea and want to keep it in mind as I write, so thought I'd share it here, too.
I've got my schedule sorted out for the next 7-8 weeks now. I'll mostly be working on my fantasy novel for Juno, UNVEILING THE SORCERESS. I've got two shorts to do alongside that, so I'll be busy, but I'm looking forward to getting stuck in.
Sunday, July 09, 2006
Good question
Yesterday new blog visitor, Ischelle, posted a question in the comments section, so I thought I'd answer it here in case it's useful info for anyone else.
Thanks so much for your interest, Ischelle. I do post short excerpts from books and stories as they are published, and occasional bites of work in progress, to give readers an idea, but mostly I keep it all on my website. The reason is because I want my blog to be a place anyone can drop by and get to know what the life of a full time writer is like, to get to know me a little, keep my pals and family in touch with what I’m up to, let readers know when my publications are out and (above all) to have a bit of fun. I want all ages to be able to access it, this is an open document. What I write is explicit adult fiction so I wouldn’t want to put whole stories out here. I’ve got short stories and chunks of my published and forthcoming work over at my site, but there is a warning about content on the front page in case anyone clicks through and doesn’t realise it’s adult material (don't want anyone keeling over in shock cos of me ;-) so that’s how I manage it. Occasionally I link to other explicit pages and sites, and I add a warning then too. It's just my way, a lot of erotic writers do post work on their blogs as well.
I see you are a wordsmith yourself, Ischelle! I enjoyed the piece you have on your blog. I've never been able to work like that myself, can never handle the words that tightly, kudos! If you want to see what I do click here or on the website link in the right hand column. The drop down menu on my site links to some free reads, and both the novels and novellas page have excerpts you can click through to read. Thanks again for your interest and the question, and keep up the writing!
In other news, today we shot out to the moors to blow away the cobwebs and it did me the world of good. Back to work with fresh eyes tomorrow. Hope you’re all having a super weekend.
Do you ever post any of your stories?
Thanks so much for your interest, Ischelle. I do post short excerpts from books and stories as they are published, and occasional bites of work in progress, to give readers an idea, but mostly I keep it all on my website. The reason is because I want my blog to be a place anyone can drop by and get to know what the life of a full time writer is like, to get to know me a little, keep my pals and family in touch with what I’m up to, let readers know when my publications are out and (above all) to have a bit of fun. I want all ages to be able to access it, this is an open document. What I write is explicit adult fiction so I wouldn’t want to put whole stories out here. I’ve got short stories and chunks of my published and forthcoming work over at my site, but there is a warning about content on the front page in case anyone clicks through and doesn’t realise it’s adult material (don't want anyone keeling over in shock cos of me ;-) so that’s how I manage it. Occasionally I link to other explicit pages and sites, and I add a warning then too. It's just my way, a lot of erotic writers do post work on their blogs as well.
I see you are a wordsmith yourself, Ischelle! I enjoyed the piece you have on your blog. I've never been able to work like that myself, can never handle the words that tightly, kudos! If you want to see what I do click here or on the website link in the right hand column. The drop down menu on my site links to some free reads, and both the novels and novellas page have excerpts you can click through to read. Thanks again for your interest and the question, and keep up the writing!
In other news, today we shot out to the moors to blow away the cobwebs and it did me the world of good. Back to work with fresh eyes tomorrow. Hope you’re all having a super weekend.
Saturday, July 08, 2006
Crazy life of a writer
I finally caught up on my JUNE schedule this past week, completing two outstanding short stories I wanted to get done. That means I'm only a week behind now. Not bad, considering it was looking insurmountable at one point. I'm getting there. Crazy life of a writer, though...in the middle of the week I had this whole novel drop into my head one morning, quite unexpectedly and when I wasn't even thinking about writerly things. When this happens, I have to stop everything and get it down. Fast. LOL I got a short synopsis/road plan done that day and it's with my lovely agent now to see what she thinks of its potential -- fingers crossed! I'm already in love with the story and itching to get it into the schedule, the characters were immediately alive and fully formed for me, names, quirks, voice, the lot. It's a contemporary erotic romance with a paranormal twist, set in a veritable facsimile of a village we have stayed in, on the East coast of Scotland.
All in all it was a hectic week, with various appointments sucking time out, and I have another busy one coming up, but I’m just pleased to be functioning on all writing cylinders again and carving through the deadlines. Next up, shuffling the July and August schedules. I am rubbing my hands in glee! Hope you’re all having a great weekend!
All in all it was a hectic week, with various appointments sucking time out, and I have another busy one coming up, but I’m just pleased to be functioning on all writing cylinders again and carving through the deadlines. Next up, shuffling the July and August schedules. I am rubbing my hands in glee! Hope you’re all having a great weekend!
Friday, July 07, 2006
Thursday, July 06, 2006
Tickled..
Over at the Erotica Readers and Writers Association the latest news, features and reviews are up. Ashley Lister reviews a handful of books. I was tickled to bits when I read this comment about my story in the LUSCIOUS anthology. "Saskia Walker (who writes her narrative with a smutty grin on her lips) recounts the deliciously enjoyable details of Edward’s Experiments." Oh Mr Lister, was it that obvious! Ha. I'm glad my grin came across. I always think the best thing you can do with your writing is enjoy the story yourself, have fun with it and that comes across to the reader, hopefully in a naughty, infectious way.
In other news, my copy of the August issue of Romantic Times arrived yesterday and I saw my novel DOUBLE DARE listed as coming soon under the Penguin Putnam column! Yikes, it's really gonna happen...
In other news, my copy of the August issue of Romantic Times arrived yesterday and I saw my novel DOUBLE DARE listed as coming soon under the Penguin Putnam column! Yikes, it's really gonna happen...
Following on...
Following on from the info about Alison Kent's non fiction book, (see previous blog) Alison is going to run some chats on her blog about writing erotic romance. I'm sure there will be lots of great info and a preview of the book material. If you are interested in participating, go HERE and let her know.
Monday, July 03, 2006
Naughty funnies
Looking for some naughty giggles? Then check out Lisette Ashton's Definitive Guide to Sexual Terminology (NB: adults only link!)
Reviews
Reading reviews of your own work is a peculiar process. I do believe it's an honour to be reviewed and it's something I try to learn from, making note of what works for the readers and...what doesn't. It's still scary though, because (inevitably) some readers won't like your stuff. Can't please all the people all of the time, never gonna happen.
Some authors avoid reviews altogether, but I don't think I could. I've got to learn from them, and, besides, it's great when a reader reacts positively to something that is important to you as a writer. Here's an example from a reader review of SECRETS VOLUME 15 on Amazon, which reports something that meant a lot to me, on a personal goals level.
Saskia Walker did a fantastic job with "Falling for Trouble," intertwining a credible suspense plot and a romantic one, especially considering the short length of the story. It's tough to satisfy my standards when it comes to characters being thrown into life-threatening situations. Too often a woman miraculously knows how to fight off someone as if she's developed the physical skill by just watching action flicks, but Sonia acts and reacts in a completely believable way.
This really pleased me. When I write I try to create escapist ficion with realistic, believable characters who are plunged into unexpected, crazy or unusual circumstances. Exploring how they react to those circumstances and making their reactions credible as the plot unfolds is the character journey/growth part. This comment showed me I've managed to achieve something that is one of my main goals. Well, for that reader, at least ;-) I'm always very insecure about my writing, so feedback and things like this mean a lot to me. I hope I can make all my characters come across as well as Sonia did to this reader. And on that note, must get back to the two shorts I am working on, before I can kick off with the July/August writing schedule.
Some authors avoid reviews altogether, but I don't think I could. I've got to learn from them, and, besides, it's great when a reader reacts positively to something that is important to you as a writer. Here's an example from a reader review of SECRETS VOLUME 15 on Amazon, which reports something that meant a lot to me, on a personal goals level. Saskia Walker did a fantastic job with "Falling for Trouble," intertwining a credible suspense plot and a romantic one, especially considering the short length of the story. It's tough to satisfy my standards when it comes to characters being thrown into life-threatening situations. Too often a woman miraculously knows how to fight off someone as if she's developed the physical skill by just watching action flicks, but Sonia acts and reacts in a completely believable way.
This really pleased me. When I write I try to create escapist ficion with realistic, believable characters who are plunged into unexpected, crazy or unusual circumstances. Exploring how they react to those circumstances and making their reactions credible as the plot unfolds is the character journey/growth part. This comment showed me I've managed to achieve something that is one of my main goals. Well, for that reader, at least ;-) I'm always very insecure about my writing, so feedback and things like this mean a lot to me. I hope I can make all my characters come across as well as Sonia did to this reader. And on that note, must get back to the two shorts I am working on, before I can kick off with the July/August writing schedule.
Hot here!
After a slow start to our summer, it's now baking hot here in Yorkshire. Despite a massive thunder storm last night, it hasn't broken the weather pattern up one bit. As a result, we've been having unusually quiet leisure time, mostly keeping cool indoors and reading. The Man of the House is reading THUD! by Pratchett and I'm also indulging my fantasy yen. Top off the tbr stack was RIKA'S JEWEL, by Astrid Fox. I've got to say, if you love stuff like Xena and pagan fantasy, you'll totally adore this one. Sadly out of print now, but still available through amazon resellers and some outlets, it's a great lesbian fantasy novel from Sapphire (Virgin Books) I've enjoyed it immensely. Although, I hasten to add, it mostly did not help me keep cool. Heh. Next up is the more heavyweight KUSHIEL'S DART by Jacqueline Carey. Have been longing to read this one for ages.
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