L.P. Suzanne Atkinson's Blog
March 19, 2022
Feel Free to Borrow
Authors write to be read. Selling books is a bonus, but readers borrowing an author's books is great, too. Hoopla is the computer program for borrowing eBooks from your local library. All you need is your library card and a device to read the eBook.
Don't worry. Most authors receive a nominal stipend when books are borrowed, either through their publisher / distributor, or via a Canadian program called Public Lending Rights. The royalty is small...but it's a royalty nonetheless.
I'm thrilled to think of you borrowing my books. Go ahead. Check it out. Hoopla!
Don't worry. Most authors receive a nominal stipend when books are borrowed, either through their publisher / distributor, or via a Canadian program called Public Lending Rights. The royalty is small...but it's a royalty nonetheless.
I'm thrilled to think of you borrowing my books. Go ahead. Check it out. Hoopla!
December 3, 2021
Graciousness Doesn't Cost
The epitome of humanity is to be gracious and kind. My mother taught me this, more years ago than I care to divulge. As an author, one who loves to read in public and share stories about the work, I meet many people.
I had the opportunity to go to a reading and hear one of my favourite authors. It was more than ten years ago, now. I owned every book she ever wrote, mostly in hard cover, and salivated at the thought of an upcoming release. She was coming to my community and we were lucky enough to purchase tickets. We were told there would be a signing / reception and were encouraged to bring books. My husband was afraid I would lug every book she ever wrote into the reception, for her to sign. I resisted, taking the first book, the last book, and my favourite book.
The reading was fabulous. She is so very funny, hauntingly insightful, and she possessed a very dry wit. The event filled me with excitement. I purchased her next book the minute the reading was over.
At the huge reception, sponsored by a local group who worked for days prior to make it perfect, the author made eye-contact with no one. She spoke with only her spouse and the organizer. When she finally decided to sit at the table provided to sign books, there was a long line. I had waited for thirty minutes. She took each book, scrawled her name, and handed them to me without glancing up. My experience was over.
At the time, I was toying with the idea of writing a book. I made up my mind that no matter what, I would look each reader in the eye - even the ones who didn't buy, but stopped to tell me how much they liked the book they borrowed from a friend.
I recently did a reading where I was approached afterward, albeit cautiously, by a reader clutching a book I wrote many years ago. She asked if she could sit beside me and we talked about writing. I asked if she wanted me to sign her book. She said 'yes', if it was alright. I can only hope I gave this reader more than was given to me so many years ago.
I'll never be as famous as that particular author, but I know my readers will have a better experience whenever they take time out of their busy lives to listen to me read and meet me in person. I will always strive to be gracious and kind.
I had the opportunity to go to a reading and hear one of my favourite authors. It was more than ten years ago, now. I owned every book she ever wrote, mostly in hard cover, and salivated at the thought of an upcoming release. She was coming to my community and we were lucky enough to purchase tickets. We were told there would be a signing / reception and were encouraged to bring books. My husband was afraid I would lug every book she ever wrote into the reception, for her to sign. I resisted, taking the first book, the last book, and my favourite book.
The reading was fabulous. She is so very funny, hauntingly insightful, and she possessed a very dry wit. The event filled me with excitement. I purchased her next book the minute the reading was over.
At the huge reception, sponsored by a local group who worked for days prior to make it perfect, the author made eye-contact with no one. She spoke with only her spouse and the organizer. When she finally decided to sit at the table provided to sign books, there was a long line. I had waited for thirty minutes. She took each book, scrawled her name, and handed them to me without glancing up. My experience was over.
At the time, I was toying with the idea of writing a book. I made up my mind that no matter what, I would look each reader in the eye - even the ones who didn't buy, but stopped to tell me how much they liked the book they borrowed from a friend.
I recently did a reading where I was approached afterward, albeit cautiously, by a reader clutching a book I wrote many years ago. She asked if she could sit beside me and we talked about writing. I asked if she wanted me to sign her book. She said 'yes', if it was alright. I can only hope I gave this reader more than was given to me so many years ago.
I'll never be as famous as that particular author, but I know my readers will have a better experience whenever they take time out of their busy lives to listen to me read and meet me in person. I will always strive to be gracious and kind.
November 25, 2021
November 25, 2021
Here we are - another year has passed. I have just uploaded information about Fictional Truth: A Stella Kirk Mystery # 4. It will be released on January 2, 2022 for pre-order and will be available across all platforms in March.
"Fictional Truth" is my tenth book. To celebrate, I am also making available two new e-book bundles: "Segue House Connection" and "Diner Revelations" in the Regarding Hayworth Series, and "No Visible Means" and "Didn't Stand a Chance" in the Stella Kirk Mystery Series. They will be available at the same time.
Thanks to all of you for your support. here's to 2022!
"Fictional Truth" is my tenth book. To celebrate, I am also making available two new e-book bundles: "Segue House Connection" and "Diner Revelations" in the Regarding Hayworth Series, and "No Visible Means" and "Didn't Stand a Chance" in the Stella Kirk Mystery Series. They will be available at the same time.
Thanks to all of you for your support. here's to 2022!
November 25, 2020
Wednesday's Word
Sharing a link to an interview for Wednesday's Word on Diane Tibert's blog. I appreciated the opportunity. A small correction in dates - the first edition of "Emily's Will Be Done" was in 2013. I wrote a stand-alone novel and the "Regarding Hayworth" series after this book and before the Stella Kirk Mysteries.
https://dianetibert.com/2020/11/25/we...
(you might have to copy this into your browser)
https://dianetibert.com/2020/11/25/we...
(you might have to copy this into your browser)
November 22, 2020
Cozy Mystery Genre
I haven't written a blog for some time, but recently attended a webinar about using Goodreads to best advantage, so thought I would take a run at posting once again.
As a means of introduction, I have written a work of creative non-fiction, a stand-alone novel, a series of four books in the mystery / thriller category, and will be ready to reveal Book # 3 in my cozy mystery series - "Sand In My Suitcase: A Stella Kirk Mystery" - in March, 2021.
Cozy mysteries fall into a specific genre with a few variations. There are the 'cat / library' varieties which are relatively light for the most part, but mine are not quite the same. They follow the rules of nothing gory, no smut, not procedural in the strictest sense, there is an amateur sleuth, and a police person in one form or another. The setting is static from one book to the next, although a murder is solved in each book. No children or animals are hurt or killed, and the victim is usually someone the reader does not know well. I may stretch this last rule a bit. Books are around 60k words. I stretch this rule as well, because mine run to 75k.
My books are character driven. The hopes and desires of a murderer are blended with the ongoing challenges of the amateur sleuth, her family, and the detective.
Cozy mysteries are usually written in classic three act format and I follow this as closely as possible.
Next week, I am being interviewed about Book # 2 of the Stella Kirk Mystery Series - "Didn't Stand a Chance" and I will post a link to the interview here.
As a means of introduction, I have written a work of creative non-fiction, a stand-alone novel, a series of four books in the mystery / thriller category, and will be ready to reveal Book # 3 in my cozy mystery series - "Sand In My Suitcase: A Stella Kirk Mystery" - in March, 2021.
Cozy mysteries fall into a specific genre with a few variations. There are the 'cat / library' varieties which are relatively light for the most part, but mine are not quite the same. They follow the rules of nothing gory, no smut, not procedural in the strictest sense, there is an amateur sleuth, and a police person in one form or another. The setting is static from one book to the next, although a murder is solved in each book. No children or animals are hurt or killed, and the victim is usually someone the reader does not know well. I may stretch this last rule a bit. Books are around 60k words. I stretch this rule as well, because mine run to 75k.
My books are character driven. The hopes and desires of a murderer are blended with the ongoing challenges of the amateur sleuth, her family, and the detective.
Cozy mysteries are usually written in classic three act format and I follow this as closely as possible.
Next week, I am being interviewed about Book # 2 of the Stella Kirk Mystery Series - "Didn't Stand a Chance" and I will post a link to the interview here.
October 20, 2013
Since I'm starting a second blog, I thought I would post ...
Since I'm starting a second blog, I thought I would post the cover of
Emily's Will Be Done
and the summary of the book.
After the sudden death of my friend Emily, I, a Nova Scotia Social Worker and business person, find myself the sole executrix of what turns out to be a very complicated estate, compounded by mystery and wrapped in layers of lessons learned. Like many of life’s episodes and occurrences experienced for the first time, one does not know what one does not know. I wind my way through necessary steps, holding tight to a friendship lost, and persevering amid the torment of beneficiaries, banks, and unanswered questions. Emily’s Will Be Done not only tells the story of executing an estate fraught with the standard inherent difficulties, it tells a story of love and loss, of a lonely woman layered with enigmas and surrounded by secrets, of how friendship may well transcend life itself. You will discover the many facets of Emily as you uncover the mysteries of the executor role along the way.Look for the book at Chapters Online, Amazon, other online bookstore, or order from your local bookshop. You can also contact me directly for a copy.
After the sudden death of my friend Emily, I, a Nova Scotia Social Worker and business person, find myself the sole executrix of what turns out to be a very complicated estate, compounded by mystery and wrapped in layers of lessons learned. Like many of life’s episodes and occurrences experienced for the first time, one does not know what one does not know. I wind my way through necessary steps, holding tight to a friendship lost, and persevering amid the torment of beneficiaries, banks, and unanswered questions. Emily’s Will Be Done not only tells the story of executing an estate fraught with the standard inherent difficulties, it tells a story of love and loss, of a lonely woman layered with enigmas and surrounded by secrets, of how friendship may well transcend life itself. You will discover the many facets of Emily as you uncover the mysteries of the executor role along the way.Look for the book at Chapters Online, Amazon, other online bookstore, or order from your local bookshop. You can also contact me directly for a copy.
September 30, 2013
Comments posted on my web site so far: "What a great bo...
Comments posted on my web site so far: "What a great book. I ate, chewed and absorbed every word I could. I loved it and will again read it through and through." B.H. "Nicely done. Finished it last night. I must say, your writing has great clarity, an admirable trait." M.deV.. "Many thanks for the book. We have both read it and will read it again. Great read, flowed so well, also a good reference for taking the role of executor / executrix." S.& E.J. "I enjoyed it immensely and will probably read it again. You did a phenomenal job with writing and following Emily's wishes." L.K.
"I loved the book. It's one of those reads that when you pick it up, you can't put it down till you hear how it unfolds - you are indeed a talented writer." L.C.
"Once I started, I just couldn't put it down!! Not only is the subject covered in an interesting and educational manner, but the writing, itself, is superb!! Congrats on your first edition...I give it a thumbs up for sure. S.H.
"This book was eye-opening for what you went through, having to put aside your feelings. It was inspiring." A.C.
"What a wonderful piece of writing. Thoroughly enjoyable and informative." J.P.
"We have to take our hats off to you and hope this is not the end of your writing career. We will use your book as a guide to getting ready for the inevitable. Please let us know where we can purchase (in B.C.) so we can pass on the info to friends." V.& B.B.
"Suzanne, what a great read. You did a great job. Looking forward to the next one. I guess you are right. We never truly know someone. You have made me think and will have specific lists for my executor. Keep up the good work." V.G.
"I absolutely loved your book!! I finished it last evening and found it hard to put down when interrupted. It not only was a glimpse into Emily's life but the author's as well. I found it to be both an adventure and a mystery, with all the twists and turns of events. A.-S.V.
"Just finished your book and what an amazing story. I found it quite fascinating and there is so much involved in fulfilling your obligations." D.V.
"This book is an education and a poignant journey of discovery, (and it reads like a guilty pleasure). A must read for anyone who plans to execute a will and a should read for everybody else. Emily's Will Be Done is a striking achievement." L.McC.
"This book is a penetrating account of the emotional aspects od administering a friend's estate and insuring that her wishes are fulfilled, despite the frustrations of red tape. After forty years as a lawyer in this field, I recommend the book both as a preparation for the layperson who may one day face the same chore, and for the professional who could improve the quality of the services by gaining much insight into the client's point of view." B.C. (Q.C.)
"I loved the book. It's one of those reads that when you pick it up, you can't put it down till you hear how it unfolds - you are indeed a talented writer." L.C.
"Once I started, I just couldn't put it down!! Not only is the subject covered in an interesting and educational manner, but the writing, itself, is superb!! Congrats on your first edition...I give it a thumbs up for sure. S.H.
"This book was eye-opening for what you went through, having to put aside your feelings. It was inspiring." A.C.
"What a wonderful piece of writing. Thoroughly enjoyable and informative." J.P.
"We have to take our hats off to you and hope this is not the end of your writing career. We will use your book as a guide to getting ready for the inevitable. Please let us know where we can purchase (in B.C.) so we can pass on the info to friends." V.& B.B.
"Suzanne, what a great read. You did a great job. Looking forward to the next one. I guess you are right. We never truly know someone. You have made me think and will have specific lists for my executor. Keep up the good work." V.G.
"I absolutely loved your book!! I finished it last evening and found it hard to put down when interrupted. It not only was a glimpse into Emily's life but the author's as well. I found it to be both an adventure and a mystery, with all the twists and turns of events. A.-S.V.
"Just finished your book and what an amazing story. I found it quite fascinating and there is so much involved in fulfilling your obligations." D.V.
"This book is an education and a poignant journey of discovery, (and it reads like a guilty pleasure). A must read for anyone who plans to execute a will and a should read for everybody else. Emily's Will Be Done is a striking achievement." L.McC.
"This book is a penetrating account of the emotional aspects od administering a friend's estate and insuring that her wishes are fulfilled, despite the frustrations of red tape. After forty years as a lawyer in this field, I recommend the book both as a preparation for the layperson who may one day face the same chore, and for the professional who could improve the quality of the services by gaining much insight into the client's point of view." B.C. (Q.C.)
Comments posted on my web site so far: "What&n...
Comments posted on my web site so far: "What a great book. I ate, chewed and absorbed every word I could. I loved it and will again read it through and through." B.H. "Nicely done. Finished it last night. I must say, your writing has great clarity, an admirable trait." M.deV.. "Many thanks for the book. We have both read it and will read it again. Great read, flowed so well, also a good reference for taking the role of executor / executrix." S.& E.J. "I enjoyed it immensely and will probably read it again. You did a phenomenal job with writing and following Emily's wishes." L.K.
"I loved the book. It's one of those reads that when you pick it up, you can't put it down till you hear how it unfolds - you are indeed a talented writer." L.C.
"Once I started, I just couldn't put it down!! Not only is the subject covered in an interesting and educational manner, but the writing, itself, is superb!! Congrats on your first edition...I give it a thumbs up for sure. S.H.
"This book was eye-opening for what you went through, having to put aside your feelings. It was inspiring." A.C.
"What a wonderful piece of writing. Thoroughly enjoyable and informative." J.P.
"We have to take our hats off to you and hope this is not the end of your writing career. We will use your book as a guide to getting ready for the inevitable. Please let us know where we can purchase (in B.C.) so we can pass on the info to friends." V.& B.B.
"Suzanne, what a great read. You did a great job. Looking forward to the next one. I guess you are right. We never truly know someone. You have made me think and will have specific lists for my executor. Keep up the good work." V.G.
"I absolutely loved your book!! I finished it last evening and found it hard to put down when interrupted. It not only was a glimpse into Emily's life but the author's as well. I found it to be both an adventure and a mystery, with all the twists and turns of events. A.-S.V.
"Just finished your book and what an amazing story. I found it quite fascinating and there is so much involved in fulfilling your obligations." D.V.
"This book is an education and a poignant journey of discovery, (and it reads like a guilty pleasure). A must read for anyone who plans to execute a will and a should read for everybody else. Emily's Will Be Done is a striking achievement." L.McC.
"This book is a penetrating account of the emotional aspects od administering a friend's estate and insuring that her wishes are fulfilled, despite the frustrations of red tape. After forty years as a lawyer in this field, I recommend the book both as a preparation for the layperson who may one day face the same chore, and for the professional who could improve the quality of the services by gaining much insight into the client's point of view." B.C. (Q.C.)
"I loved the book. It's one of those reads that when you pick it up, you can't put it down till you hear how it unfolds - you are indeed a talented writer." L.C.
"Once I started, I just couldn't put it down!! Not only is the subject covered in an interesting and educational manner, but the writing, itself, is superb!! Congrats on your first edition...I give it a thumbs up for sure. S.H.
"This book was eye-opening for what you went through, having to put aside your feelings. It was inspiring." A.C.
"What a wonderful piece of writing. Thoroughly enjoyable and informative." J.P.
"We have to take our hats off to you and hope this is not the end of your writing career. We will use your book as a guide to getting ready for the inevitable. Please let us know where we can purchase (in B.C.) so we can pass on the info to friends." V.& B.B.
"Suzanne, what a great read. You did a great job. Looking forward to the next one. I guess you are right. We never truly know someone. You have made me think and will have specific lists for my executor. Keep up the good work." V.G.
"I absolutely loved your book!! I finished it last evening and found it hard to put down when interrupted. It not only was a glimpse into Emily's life but the author's as well. I found it to be both an adventure and a mystery, with all the twists and turns of events. A.-S.V.
"Just finished your book and what an amazing story. I found it quite fascinating and there is so much involved in fulfilling your obligations." D.V.
"This book is an education and a poignant journey of discovery, (and it reads like a guilty pleasure). A must read for anyone who plans to execute a will and a should read for everybody else. Emily's Will Be Done is a striking achievement." L.McC.
"This book is a penetrating account of the emotional aspects od administering a friend's estate and insuring that her wishes are fulfilled, despite the frustrations of red tape. After forty years as a lawyer in this field, I recommend the book both as a preparation for the layperson who may one day face the same chore, and for the professional who could improve the quality of the services by gaining much insight into the client's point of view." B.C. (Q.C.)
September 4, 2013
NEWSPAPER ARTICLES:I am very pleased with the coverage I'...
NEWSPAPER ARTICLES:
I am very pleased with the coverage I've received from local press regarding my book.
The link attached will take you to the article in the local Liverpool, NS newspaper referencing the launch of Emily's Will Be Done at Lane's Privateer Inn on Sunday, September 8, 2013 at 2PM.
http://www.theadvance.ca/Living/2013-09-04/article-3372925/New-author-launches-book/1
Here is the link to the Annapolis Valley Events Guide discussing my launch at Box of Delights in Wolfville, NS on September 14, 2013 from 11AM to 1PM.
http://valleyevents.ca/24165
Finally, here is the link to the Tribune Post with an article about my upcoming launch at the Marshlands Inn in Sackville, NB on October 6, 2013 from 1-3PM.
http://www.sackvilletribunepost.com/Living/2013-08-28/article-3367722/Sackville-native-set-to-launch-%26lsquoEmilys-Will-Be-Done%26rsquo/1?action=sendToFriend
I am very pleased with the coverage I've received from local press regarding my book.
The link attached will take you to the article in the local Liverpool, NS newspaper referencing the launch of Emily's Will Be Done at Lane's Privateer Inn on Sunday, September 8, 2013 at 2PM.
http://www.theadvance.ca/Living/2013-09-04/article-3372925/New-author-launches-book/1
Here is the link to the Annapolis Valley Events Guide discussing my launch at Box of Delights in Wolfville, NS on September 14, 2013 from 11AM to 1PM.
http://valleyevents.ca/24165
Finally, here is the link to the Tribune Post with an article about my upcoming launch at the Marshlands Inn in Sackville, NB on October 6, 2013 from 1-3PM.
http://www.sackvilletribunepost.com/Living/2013-08-28/article-3367722/Sackville-native-set-to-launch-%26lsquoEmilys-Will-Be-Done%26rsquo/1?action=sendToFriend
August 18, 2013
Wanted to update readers regarding Emily's Will be Done.I...
Wanted to update readers regarding Emily's Will be Done.
I now have an author page on Facebook. Click Like if you want to keep track of happenings.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/L-P-Suzanne-Atkinson-Author/151262418412914?ref=hl
My website is updated regularly with news and events as well as comments from readers. There is a GoodReads button for those of you who like to rate books on Goodreads. Your ratings and reviews are very much appreciated.
http://lpsabooks.wix.com/lpsabooks#
https://www.goodreads.com/search?utf8=%E2%9C&query=emily%27s+will+be+done
Upcoming launch / reading / signing dates:
September 8, 2013 - Lane's Privateer Inn, Liverpool 2PM
September 14, 2013 - Box of Delights, Wolfville 11AM-1PM
Sackville NB - currently being planned
Books are available from me directly, from Friesen Press, Amazon, Chapters, your local bookstore and wherever you get your ebooks.
http://www.friesenpress.com/bookstore/title/119734000011391315
Thanks to everyone for all your support.
I now have an author page on Facebook. Click Like if you want to keep track of happenings.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/L-P-Suzanne-Atkinson-Author/151262418412914?ref=hl
My website is updated regularly with news and events as well as comments from readers. There is a GoodReads button for those of you who like to rate books on Goodreads. Your ratings and reviews are very much appreciated.
http://lpsabooks.wix.com/lpsabooks#
https://www.goodreads.com/search?utf8=%E2%9C&query=emily%27s+will+be+done
Upcoming launch / reading / signing dates:
September 8, 2013 - Lane's Privateer Inn, Liverpool 2PM
September 14, 2013 - Box of Delights, Wolfville 11AM-1PM
Sackville NB - currently being planned
Books are available from me directly, from Friesen Press, Amazon, Chapters, your local bookstore and wherever you get your ebooks.
http://www.friesenpress.com/bookstore/title/119734000011391315
Thanks to everyone for all your support.
