A.E. Albert's Blog

Belakangan ini, semakin banyak masyarakat di Indonesia yang tertarik untuk memelihara ikan hias. Adapun ikan hias yang mereka pelihara akan diletakkan di dalam akuarium, yang tentunya disesuaikan dengan ukuran dan jumlah ikan yang ada di dalamnya. Pada umumnya, ikan-ikan hias yang dipilih adalah jenis ikan air tawar, karena selain menambah keindahan di dalam ruangan, ikan-ikan ini juga relatif mudah untuk dipelihara.
Ukuran ikan-ikan hias air tawar yang dipilih sebagai hewan peliharaan biasanya beragam, mulai dari yang berukuran kecil hingga ikan yang sangat besar. Selain itu, ada pula ikan hias air tawar yang merupakan pemakan daging atau jenis ikan lain, seperti ruput dan sebagainya. Apa jenis ikan hias air tawar yang sedang kamu pelihara saat ini?

Semakin banyak masyarakat yang tertarik dengan ikan hias, sehingga wajar apabila memelihara ikan hias air tawar menjadi hobi baru yang menyenangkan untuk mengisi waktu luang. Orang-orang yang memiliki hobi ini akan berusaha untuk mencari ikan hias air tawar yang bagus untuk dijadikan sebagai hewan peliharaan. Namun, kadang masih ada beberapa orang yang merasa bingung dalam menentukan jenis ikan hias air tawar yang akan dipilih.
Apabila kamu mengalami kebingungan, kamu dapat memilih untuk memelihara ikan hias kecil yang sangat lucu. Dalam jumlah yang cukup banyak, ikan-ikan kecil ini akan memberikan tampilan yang indah dan menarik pada akuarium. Salah satu contoh ikan hias air tawar kecil yang cocok sebagai hewan peliharaan adalah ikan guppy. Meskipun berukuran kecil, ikan guppy telah menjadi favorit dan banyak masyarakat Indonesia yang mulai memelihara ikan ini.
Ikan guppy dapat dipelihara dalam akuarium yang besar atau kecil, bahkan tak sedikit orang yang memilih untuk memelihara ikan guppy di kolam. Namun, bagi mereka yang memelihara ikan guppy di kolam biasanya bertujuan untuk dibudidaya dan dijual kembali.
Merawat ikan guppy sebagai ikan hias bisa dibilang membutuhkan usaha dan perhatian yang cukup. Namun, jika kamu memberikan perawatan yang baik dan telaten, maka ikan guppy yang kamu pelihara akan dapat hidup lebih lama. Oleh karena itu, mari kita simak beberapa cara merawat ikan guppy yang perlu kamu perhatikan.
karakteristik ikan Guppy1. Warna-warni yang MenarikIkan Guppy dikenal karena tetapan warna yang beragam dan menarik. Warna-warni ini termasuk kombinasi merah muda, kuning, hijau, orange, dan hitam. Selain itu, Guppy juga memiliki corak dengan motif bintik-bintik atau polkadot.
2. Ukuran yang KecilUkuran maksimal ikan Guppy adalah sekitar 6 cm untuk jantan, dan 8 cm untuk betina. Ukuran yang kecil membuatnya cocok untuk ditempatkan dalam akuarium yang berukuran kecil atau sedang.
3. Kebiasaan CarnivoraIkan Guppy biasanya memakan makanan hidup seperti cacing darah, larva serangga, dan kutu air. Namun, di dalam akuarium, Guppy juga dapat diberi makanan instan seperti pelet ikan atau makanan kering.
4. Kepribadian yang AktifIkan Guppy adalah salah satu jenis ikan yang sangat aktif dan menyenangkan untuk diamati dalam akuarium. Mereka suka berenang dan bermain di seluruh akuarium. Kepribadian yang aktif ini membuat ikan Guppy menjadi favorit untuk dikoleksi dan ditempatkan dalam akuarium komunitas.
5. Kemampuan Bertahan pada Lingkungan yang BerbedaIkan Guppy dapat bertahan pada lingkungan yang berbeda, baik air tawar maupun air payau. Mereka juga bisa bertahan pada temperatur yang berbeda-beda, mulai dari 24-28 derajat celcius.
Cara Merawat Ikan Guppy1. Pemilihan AkuariumUntuk memelihara ikan hias guppy, hal pertama yang perlu diperhatikan adalah pemilihan akuarium yang tepat. Sebagaimana halnya pada hewan peliharaan lainnya, tempat tinggal bagi ikan guppy harus disesuaikan dengan jumlah dan bentuk ikan yang akan dipelihara. Akuarium yang disarankan adalah yang berukuran sedang atau tidak terlalu besar dan tidak terlalu kecil. Dengan demikian, ikan guppy dapat bergerak dengan leluasa dan memiliki ruang untuk bernapas. Selain itu, bentuk akuarium juga sebaiknya disesuaikan dengan preferensi kamu.
2. Memberikan makanan bergizi secara teraturAgar ikan guppy tetap sehat dan jarang sakit, sangat penting untuk memberikan makanan bergizi secara rutin. Dengan memberikan makanan yang tepat dan teratur, ikan guppy akan tumbuh lebih cepat dan warna siripnya menjadi lebih indah.
Namun, perlu diingat bahwa pemberian makan yang berlebihan pada ikan guppy dapat mengurangi staminanya dan meningkatkan risiko kematian mendadak. Sebaiknya berikan makanan pada ikan guppy secara teratur dengan jumlah yang tepat. Ada berbagai makanan yang bisa diberikan seperti cacing beku, jentik nyamuk, dan lain-lain.
3. Menjaga Kualitas Air di AkuariumSetelah menjatuhkan pilihan pada jenis akuarium dan memberikan makan secara teratur, penting untuk memantau kondisi air di dalam akuarium. Kualitas air sangat mempengaruhi kesehatan ikan guppy, sehingga sebaiknya menyesuaikan kondisi air sesuai dengan habitat aslinya. Suhu yang ideal untuk ikan guppy adalah 24-28 derajat Celsius, sementara tingkat pH sekitar 7,0-7,2. Selain itu, pemasangan filter dan aerator dapat membantu menjaga sirkulasi oksigen yang baik dan mencegah masuknya bakteri berbahaya.
4. Akuarium disesuaikan dengan habitat ikan aslinyaTidak hanya kualitas air yang perlu diperhatikan dalam merawat ikan hias guppy, suasana di dalam akuarium juga memainkan peran penting. Jika suasana di dalam akuarium menyerupai habitat aslinya, maka ikan guppy dapat bertahan hidup lebih lama. Oleh karena itu, kamu dapat menambahkan aksesoris seperti tanaman hidup, bebatuan, dan sejenisnya untuk menciptakan suasana yang lebih alami di dalam akuarium.
5. Jauhkan Ikan Guppy dari PredatorJika kamu telah memelihara dan merawat ikan guppy dengan baik, sebaiknya hindari menyatukan mereka dengan ikan hias air tawar lain, terutama dengan ikan predator seperti arwana, oscar, dan lain-lain. Jika ikan guppy dan ikan hias air tawar predator disatukan, kemungkinan besar ikan guppy akan menjadi mangsa mereka. Jika kamu ingin menciptakan kombinasi ikan hias dalam satu akuarium, pilihlah ikan yang aman seperti neon tetra, moli, dan jenis lain yang tidak akan menyerang ikan guppy.
Penyebab Ikan Guppy Cepat Mati1. Suhu Air yang Berbeda Dengan HabitatnyaIkan guppy adalah jenis ikan yang sulit beradaptasi dengan lingkungan baru, sehingga pada saat dipindahkan ke lingkungan yang berbeda, mereka mungkin tidak dapat bertahan hidup dengan baik. Ada berbagai hal yang dapat disebut sebagai "lingkungan baru" bagi ikan guppy, namun suhu menjadi salah satu faktor yang sangat krusial dalam perpindahan lingkungan.
Untuk akuarium ikan guppy, suhu yang ideal adalah antara 22-27 derajat Celsius. Jika suhu turun di bawah 22 derajat atau terlalu dingin, maka kesehatan ikan guppy dapat terganggu. Di sisi lain, jika suhu terlalu panas, maka ikan guppy dapat kehilangan energi dan sistem kekebalan tubuhnya menjadi lemah.
2. Sindrom Akuarium BaruSeperti yang diketahui, biasanya ikan guppy yang dipelihara di rumah berasal dari toko ikan hias. Umumnya, ikan guppy yang dijual berasal dari akuarium atau kolam ikan yang berukuran kecil sampai sedang. Setelah berhasil mendapatkan ikan guppy yang diinginkan, disarankan untuk memilih akuarium yang sudah disiapkan terlebih dahulu.
Mempersiapkan akuarium terlebih dahulu dapat membantu ikan guppy untuk bertahan hidup lebih lama. Sebaliknya, apabila ikan guppy ditempatkan dalam akuarium yang belum dipersiapkan, kemungkinan besar akan sulit untuk mempertahankan kehidupan ikan peliharaan tersebut.
Akuarium yang sudah menjalani proses daur ulang mampu mengurangi bioload atau jumlah makhluk hidup yang berada di dalamnya. Sebaliknya, apabila akuarium tidak diolah terlebih dahulu, ikan guppy kemungkinan besar tidak akan dapat bertahan hidup dalam jangka panjang.
3. Ikan Guppy yang Terlalu BanyakUntuk membuat akuarium terlihat lebih menarik, banyak orang memilih untuk memasukkan berbagai jenis ikan hias ke dalamnya, termasuk ikan guppy. Namun, perlu diingat bahwa jumlah ikan yang ditempatkan dalam akuarium harus diperhatikan dengan cermat.
Terlalu banyak ikan guppy dalam satu akuarium bisa menyebabkan kesulitan dalam pernapasan dan kematian yang mendadak. Sebaiknya, meletakkan 3-4 pasang ikan guppy pejantan dan betina sudah cukup untuk membuat akuarium terlihat cantik. Oleh karena itu, selalu perhatikan kapasitas dan kesehatan akuarium sebelum menambahkan ikan guppy ke dalamnya.
4. Tersebarnya zat kimia ke dalam akuarium.Menggunakan bahan kimia untuk hewan peliharaan bisa sangat berbahaya. Sebagai pemilik ikan guppy, sangat penting untuk menghindari segala jenis bahan kimia yang dapat membahayakan kesehatan ikan. Jika terjadi kecelakaan dan bahan kimia masuk ke dalam akuarium, kemungkinan besar ikan guppy akan mengalami kesehatan yang buruk, atau bahkan kematian.
Jika ada bahan kimia yang sudah masuk ke dalam akuarium, segera keluarkan dan bersihkan akuarium secepat mungkin. Sekaligus, gunakan penjernih air untuk menghilangkan zat klorin dan kloramin dari air. Dengan menjaga lingkungan akuarium tetap bersih dan aman, kamu dapat memastikan kesehatan dan keselamatan ikan guppy yang kamu pelihara.
5. Pemberian Pakan yang Terlalu BanyakIkan guppy membutuhkan asupan gizi yang cukup untuk berkembang dengan baik. Namun, memberikan terlalu banyak makanan pada ikan guppy dapat berdampak buruk pada kesehatannya. Pemilik yang baru memelihara ikan guppy seringkali memberikan terlalu banyak makanan agar ikan cepat tumbuh besar. Tetapi, kelebihan makanan dapat menyebabkan ikan guppy mudah sakit bahkan mati secara mendadak.
Selain itu, sisa makanan juga dapat mencemari air akuarium, yang dapat menyebabkan masalah dalam lingkungan hidup ikan. Oleh karena itu, penting untuk memberikan makanan dalam jumlah yang tepat dan secara teratur. Dalam memberi makan ikan guppy, pastikan untuk memberikan porsi yang sesuai sehingga ikan guppy tetap sehat dan lingkungan akuarium tetap bersih.
6. Keracunan AmoniaSalah satu penyebab kematian ikan guppy adalah keracunan amonia, yang merupakan gas dengan bau menyengat dan mudah larut dalam air. Amonia mengandung nitrogen dan hidrogen, dan dapat berdampak buruk pada kesehatan ikan guppy jika terdapat di dalam akuarium.
Untuk mencegah keracunan amonia, penting untuk memeriksa filter air dan memastikan bahwa berfungsi dengan baik. Selain itu, air akuarium harus diganti secara rutin untuk mencegah penumpukan amonia dan zat-zat berbahaya lain di dalam air. Jika kamu melihat ikan guppy yang mati secara tiba-tiba, sebaiknya segera periksa kondisi akuarium dan lakukan tindakan pencegahan yang tepat untuk menghindari penyebaran amonia di dalam air.

Author Interview

AW Clarke


A: What is your newest novel about? 
AW: The Love That Remains is a story about lost love. It delves into the lives of two characters from the age of eight to about thirty, whose lives are drawn together and apart several times, testing fate. 
A: What is unique about this story? AW: I really enjoyed writing this book. The story touches on different life struggles that young men and women might encounter while growing into adulthood. Some issues are graphic and unfortunate, while others test the boundaries of human kindness, sacrifice, and love.A: Can we expect another love triangle, like in your first romantic novel Hooked? AW: Not quite. There is more than one person who woos Holly, our main character, but it comes at different times in the story. The Love That Remains takes quite a different path on romance than Hooked. With Hooked being more graphic and fantastical, this new novel is more relative and grounded, but touches on tangible topics throughout its plot. 
A:What was your favourite scene to write in The Love That Remains? AW: I actually have a couple of scenes that I enjoyed putting on paper. The opening scene takes the reader onto a battlefield, where the prologue sets the tone for part of the story. The other scene I really enjoyed writing was later in the book. 
All I'm going to say about it is that those of my readers who have a deep understanding of the emotion in love, will fall hard for this wonderfully intimate scene; which in my opinion, can be more powerful than a physical sex scene. Plus, the story will take you in a different direction than your average HEA romance! 
A: When can we expect your new novel out? AW: I'm nearly finished proofing it, but The Love That Remains will be officially released in paperback and ebook format before the end of June. 
Author bio: I’m a Toronto raised author with roots in Western Europe. A proud husband and father of three, I find it gratifying to put my thoughts on the screen while wearing my heart on my sleeve. 
A former tradesman, I ventured into the literary world in 2011, inspired by a good friend and author who showed me how beautiful it was to draw emotion from the hearts of others through the written word. 
I’m into all things with wheels and engines, from Mustangs to MGBs, and love ripping through the country on my motorcycle. When I’m not cooking or playing with my kids, I’m discussing life and relationships on my author blog: awclarkenovels.blogspot.ca. 
My second romance novel: The Love That Remains is scheduled for release by the end of June 2016. It’s a wonderful story of lost love between two destined souls, and the challenge of humanity versus destiny. AW Clarke 

The Story Critique

The Story Critique
by A.E. Albert

“When you write a book, you spend day after day scanning and identifying the trees. When you’re done, you have to step back and look at the forest.” ― Stephen King, On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft


Correcting typos and grammar errors is necessary to polish any manuscript.  However, the foundation of a great book is a good story.  Is your story great? 


Feedback from others and self analysis is imperative to the writing process.  As most writers know, the completion of the first draft is just the beginning.  Start with your own critique and if possible, have others give you theirs.  


Does your intro grab the reader?  Are your characters vibrant and three dimensional?  Does your main character have a clear cut goal?  Is tension spread throughout your story?  Did you deliver an ending that kills?
Find out.


Opening
Does the beginning grab the reader?Who are the book’s intended readers.Does the book reach many audiences?What audiences could it reach?

Plot
What is the core focus/conflict/goal?Is there a disaster that will happen of the goal is not achieved?What must be done to achieve the goal?Is there forewarning that shows that the impending disaster is approaching?Does the protagonist make any sacrifice in order to reach the goal?Do characters receive rewards or dividends along the journey?Are there preconditions? Small obstacles in the plot that make achieving the goal more difficult.Do events happen in an order that makes sense and in line with the plot?Are there twists, turns, false leads?Are “hooks” in the plots distributed throughout the story?Are the hooks where they should be?Does every scene in some way connect to the overall plot?Is there a theme or a message?Does conflict change throughout the story?Is the story always building to the climax?Is there Drama, tension?Are there lapses in logic?Make note of where text has digressed or gotten off track of the core plot.Are there areas that need more explanation or unanswered questions?Are there plot points that don’t lead anywhere?Is there a range of scenes? Long, short, action, dialogue, good outcomes, bad outcomes.Any recommended cutouts.



Character Development
Protagonist and antagonist is clearly distinguished.The protagonist wants something, this goal is difficult.Do characters maintain their characters throughout?Do you have empathy for protagonist?Is there character growth?What is holding certain characters back? Do they have vices, quirks, pet peeves? What are their strong points/weaknesses?What are the character’s dreams, aspirations, and greater purpose?Does the protagonist have a physical, as well as an emotional journey?Do the characters contribute to the plot development? (Events don’t just happen to them; they change events through action and personality.Does the story need more characters? Does it have too many?Does a character's physical appearance reflect their inner self?Do the characters have a back story?



Dialogue
Is there enough dialogue?Is it too long in parts?Does dialogue reveal character or plot?Is a character’s dialogue true to their character?Does the dialogue fit in with the setting/time/place/age?


Narration
Does the narrator describe the internal world of the protagonist?Is the narrator’s voice compatible with the plot, characters?Does it tell the story to intrigue the readers.Is there a balance between narration and dialogue and events?



Writing Style
Does it fit the genre?Is there Humor?  Is it appropriate?  Does it balance with the plot?Are tenses used appropriatelyIs the story paced well? Is there a contact build up to the next obstacle?Are tenses used appropriately?Is there contrast? Good-evil, rich-poor? (juxtaposition)Is the writing clear, concise, uncluttered?Is there a balanced use of adjectives and adverbs?Does the story have unnecessary words?Are character, scenes, events, setting describe with enough detail. Or are they described with too much?Does each chapter lead into the next logically?Does the chapter end with a cliffhanger?Is the POV appropriate?


Setting
Is the time/place believable?Is it well researched?Is the setting brought to life empirically? Are the senses expressed through words?


Mood
Is there a range of moods? Light, tense, funny, serious.Is there emotional impact and will it connect with the reader?


Ending/Climax
Does the outcome match the story?Is the climax at the right part of the story?Does the story end when it should?

Is your Story great?  If the answer is no, have no fear.  
Revise.  
Then do it again.  And again.  
Every work begins as a lump of clay.  Just keep moving your fingers.

My Favorite Female Villains inLiterature

by A.E. Albert


"I firmly believe that a story is only as good as the villain."  -Clive Barker



Cersei: Game of Thrones
Cersei had an affair with her brother, attempted to murder a child, murdered her husband, killed the king's bastard child and birthed one of the most evil monarchs in Westeros' history. However, these crimes are not what makes her the heinous villain she is.
Cersei was born to privilege and status and so it was only natural that she marry Robert Baratheon, the usurper king.  Cersei doesn't rule with any notion of duty and service.  She was willing to let the people of Westeros starve and die to ensure her bloodline's claim to the throne.



Lady MacBeth: MacBeth
They say behind every successful man is a woman. In this case, behind MacBeth's cunning rise to kingship was his wife, the lady MacBeth.  

She pushes her weak in character husband to murder his king and seek the crown for himself. Yet, despite her machinations and stealth, she is her own undoing and finally succumbs to madness.
If you're going to commit an act of evil, at least do it yourself.  MacBeth was weak and if pushed in the right direction, he may have went that way. But his wife used this flaw for her own desires.  

It is one thing to corrupt yourself, but an even greater sin to corrupt another. She may have not murdered Duncan herself, but she is no less guilty.


Bellatrix Lestrange: Harry Potter Series
Bellatrix Lestrange: Deatheater, ex-prisoner of Azkaban and murderer of Sirius Black.  What puts her on this list isn't actually these deeds in themselves, but her attitude.  

She utterly relished the pain she inflicted on others.  Her high pitched laugh and little girl dance may even convince you she is insane.  But alas she is not.  She is just an evil woman without remorse or regret.  I put this magical sociopath high on my villains list.



Miranda Priestly: The Devil Wears Prada

I think the Devil Wears Prada is one of the most aptly named novels of our time.  When I imagine the devil I don't see a fire spitting goat with a bad temper.  No, I see a white haired woman with hooded eyes and an arrogant facade; who can do more damage with nothing more than a whisper. Nothing describes our editor in chief more accurately.

What makes her so evil isn't the fear she instills in other.  It's the shame.  She is a talented manipulator who can induce a self-loathing in others whose only crime was to not have completed a task to her liking.



Veruca Salt: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Veruca is the daughter of a nut factory owner.  Since the day she was born she has been given everything she wants; even if the item is absurd or costly.  Her father halted his production lines and made his workers do nothing but search for the coveted golden ticket, for heaven's sake.

What gives Veruca high villian status, or should I say villain in training; is her bully tendencies. Who does she bully?  Her parents, of course.  She is void of any empathy for others and re-defines what it is to be self-centered.  

But then again, as Mary Shelley ponders; who is monster?  The monster or it's creator?



Dolores Umbridge: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

No, Dolores Umbridge is not on my list just because she took dumbledore's job.  Yes, that is hate-worthy, but she is, oh, so much more than that.

Fundamentally, she's racist.  It is her belief that magical people are the superior race on earth. People must fit into the mould she created and if they don't; she is abusive and even murderous.

Dolores possesS a convoluted sense of purpose and she believes her actions are for the betterment for magical kind.



Medea: The play Medea

If you have read the play, thEn you I haven't much to say here.  She sought revenge against her lover, Jason.  Well, she did help him escape Colchis when he stole the golden fleece.  Afterwards, they did sail away into the sunset aboard the Argo. 

But....when he decided to leave her and their numerous children for a political marriage; well, she killed them.  When I say them, I mean all of her children.  She than tricked a king to give her sanctuary; leaving Jason to mourn forever the loss of his beloved children.



Annie Wilkes: Misery

The famous author, Paul Sheldon, becomes stranded in rural Colorado with a broken leg.  He is rescued by former nurse and is number one fan, Annie Wilkes.  Paul quickly finds his status changed from patient to prisoner.

What makes Annie so frightening is her gentle and caring facade.  Anyone could be her next victim. Of course...we writers are a little more to her taste.


I love a strong female character.  Even the dastardly diabolical ones.  They may even be my favorite.


Who is your favorite female villain?  Let me know.


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You may be interested in the Following:

The Role the Indie Author Plays in the World of Publishing
Self-Publishing: Setting Goals
Staying True to Your Vision When Writing a Book
Are Fellow Authors Colleagues or Competition?
My Mistake in Writing: I kept Thinking My Book Was Done
The Importance of Beta Readers
Writing: The Importance of Doing Your Own Research
How to Promote Yourself: Taking Baby Steps and Starting Out Small
Constructive Criticism: A Writer's Best Friend
A Positive Attitude: A Writer's Armour

How to be more Creative


How to be MoreCreative
 by A.E. Albert



“We have to continually be jumping off cliffs and developing our wings on the way down.”  ― Kurt Vonnegut


Creativity is not the mythical muse of old or a light bulb that illuminates when an idea mysteriously presents itself.  

Harnessing creativity takes practice.  In fact, there are many things we can do to help us become more creative.  As with everything, it's all in the doing.


1.  Choose an environment that penetrates the senses. This can be your home or outside.  You may even choose to change your work setting on a regular basis.  Just surround yourself with images that make you think.

2.  Engage with your community and the world. Get out there.  Walk around, join groups, take dance lessons, talk to people, experience the world.

3.  Try new things.  Get out of your comfort zone.  

4.  Finish what you start.  We all love that feeling when the creative juices flow and we start something new.  However, the completion of a project makes us feel empowered.  Use this power to create something else.

5.  Don't edit yourself.  Get in the zone.  Let it all hang out.  That's what revision is for.

6.  Write down your ideas as they come to you.  Jot down that idea that comes to you in the grocery store or at work.  

7.  Join a group.  Meet people who are interested in the same things you are.  Talking about your passion and listening to others will fuel your creativity.

8.  Be in the moment.  Experience the world empirically.  Hear it.  See it.  Smell it.  Feel it. Taste it.

9.  It's all about practise.  The more you exercise your creativity, the more it expands.  Work it.

How to Combat Writer's Block



How to Combat Writer’s Block

by A.E. Albert



“One thing that helps is to give myself permission to write badly. I tell myself that I’m going to do my five or 10 pages no matter what, and that I can always tear them up the following morning if I want. I’ll have lost nothing—writing and tearing up five pages would leave me no further behind than if I took the day off.” —Lawrence Block





1.  Don't think so much.  You don't need to be perfect.  Just write and edit later.

2.  Take a break.  Read a book.  Think about other things.

3.  Write down ideas as they come to you.  Always have paper and a pen with you.  Be ready.

4.  Focus on the concept of what you are trying to say.  Don't get stuck on the phrasing.  You can always fix it later.

5.  Write about something else.  Do a writing prompt, write a letter to your favorite author or a short story.

6.  Break your work down into tasks.  Choose one and focus on that.

7.  If you are stuck on finding a solution to a problem, jot down various ways to solve it.  Don't over analyze, you never know what you may come up with.

8.  Create a schedule.  Make a plan that works with your life and stick to it.

9.  Write for yourself.  Write the story you want to tell.  Stop trying to be what others want you to be.

10.  Stop waiting for inspiration.  If you're waiting you're not writing.  And writers write.

Movies That Are Better Than The Book


Movies That AreBetter Than TheBook

by A.E. Albert

“Books and movies are like apples and oranges. They both are fruit, but taste completely different.” -Stephen King



I know, I know, I'm offending the literary sensibilities of readers/writers everywhere.  But I'm sorry to say that sometimes the movie is better than the book.




The Devil Wears Prada:

Don't get me wrong, it's a good book.  But I know anyone who has seen the movie agrees with me.  It was oscar worthy, after all. Mind you, Meryl Streep played a key character and added the magic she gives to every movie.

Ultimately, its the ending.  The theme remains the same, but the action is different.  I also love how you get a glimpse into Miranda's mind at the very end.  The movie gives her a humanity the book doesn't.





The Nanny Diaries:

The movie focus' on the guy and the romance more.  It's a good book; but it centers more around what is happening to the protagonist. The movie gives more dimension to the other characters.










The Lovely Bones:

I really liked the book.  But I expected more of a mystery. Instead it was a story documenting the experience of a murdered girl who has passed to the other side.  It also shows the effects of her death on the people she left behind.

I find the movie is more complete.  You find out who murdered the girl  and what happens to them.




Breaking Dawn:

I really don't know who I'm offending more at this moment, die hard Twilight fans or moviegoers everywhere.Ok, let me set the record straight.   I love the book.  But I also love the movie ending.  An extra scene was inserted without really changing the storyline. I think it was an ingenious way to spice up a great, but dialogue directed conclusion.





Charlie and the Chocolate Factory:

I love Roald Dahl.  This book was the first of his that I read.  It was the one that started it all as I continued to read almost all of his books.

But once again, it's the ending that makes me love the movie more.  By the way, I'm talking about the Gene Wilder version (it's my favorite).  I found it more emotional.  I connected more with the characters; even Willy Wonka.  This is hard to do in the book.

What movies do you think are better than the book?  Let me know.

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You may be interested in the Following:

The Role the Indie Author Plays in the World of Publishing
Self-Publishing: Setting Goals
Staying True to Your Vision When Writing a Book
Are Fellow Authors Colleagues or Competition?
My Mistake in Writing: I kept Thinking My Book Was Done
The Importance of Beta Readers
Writing: The Importance of Doing Your Own Research
How to Promote Yourself: Taking Baby Steps and Starting Out Small
Constructive Criticism: A Writer's Best Friend

A Positive Attitude: A Writer's Armour

11 Mistakes Bloggers Make

11 MistakesBloggers Make

by A.E. Albert

“Not only are bloggers suckers for the remarkable, so are the people who read blogs.”
- Seth Godin
















1. Using Complicated Sentence Structure and Language
Don't try and sound smart for the sake of sounding smart.  Stay true to your message but write for the general masses.  Get your point across with a straightforward message.  Also, use short paragraphs and subtitles to break up the post.  


2. Not Creating a Niche Audience
Building a following is only that much more difficult if you are trying to be all things to all people. Reading your favorite blogger should be like a continuous conversation.  This conversation should be personal and intimate. Write like you're talking to one person and not addressing a crowd.



“Blogging is a conversation,not a code.”- Mike Butcher

3. Over Posting
Don't add to the jumble of content already out there.  Again, have something of value to say. Quality or quantity.


4. Posting Inconsistently
In order to build a loyal audience, consistency is key. Yes, it takes time. So whether you post once or five times a week, just stick to it.  This is a necessary component of success.


5. Your Niche isn't What Interests You
As I said, consistency and dedication are necessary to the long term success of any blog.  If you don't write about what you are passionate about you'll lose interest.  Consistent blogging is hard work.  Make what you do that much more enjoyable by creating posts on topics you love.



Most bloggers Don'tLast longer Than 9Months


6. Sacrificing Quality Content For SEO
Yes, SEO plays a significant role in google engine searches.  But readers won't return to your blog if they discover boring and poorly written posts. Remember, it's all about reader loyalty.  Take your time, produce quality and slowly build your blog.


7. Not Using Your Own Voice
Writing consistently is exhausting.  Writing is easier and less daunting when you use your own voice.  If you can simplify your process do it.


8. Not Building Relationships
Everyone needs help.  Being part of a community helps your blog grow; as well as you as a blogger.  Don't be afraid to promote others who may do the same in return.


9. Writing For Yourself and Not Others
Bloggers surf the web too.  I search out content I find interesting and desire to read.  I have to assume everyone else does too.  My point is, write content that your audience wants to read; not just your thoughts on the world.




“Don't focus on having a great blog.  Focus on producing a blog that’s great for your readers”- Brian Clark


10. Not Editing Your Posts
Nobody like typos and poor grammar.  Enough said.


11. Not Promoting Yourself
No one will read your posts if they don't know they're out there.  It's a big web.  Make yourself known.

What mistakes do you think bloggers make?  Let me know.


Subscribe to our mailing list
Email Address *

You may be interested in the Following:

The Role the Indie Author Plays in the World of Publishing
Self-Publishing: Setting Goals
Staying True to Your Vision When Writing a Book
Are Fellow Authors Colleagues or Competition?
My Mistake in Writing: I kept Thinking My Book Was Done
The Importance of Beta Readers
Writing: The Importance of Doing Your Own Research
How to Promote Yourself: Taking Baby Steps and Starting Out Small
Constructive Criticism: A Writer's Best Friend

Author Interview:Alisa Mullen




Title: Plastic Confidence (Book 1 of The Good Bye Trilogy)
Genre: Psychological Suspense



How old were you when you knew you wanted to be a writer?

I was probably in the fourth grade when I realized I enjoyed writing far more than any other subject. I also enjoyed reading it aloud to my mothers so they were extremely supportive and told me they thought I would be a writer one day. I had a goal in mind that I would one day write a novel - you know the ole bucket list but I really thought it would be something far more deep than Unsettled. The book is deep, of course, but it’s not a book about how to live forever. So, I did write that novel on my bucket list and then I wrote nine more.

What inspired you to write your first book?
I had a hard time getting over one summer that sort of changed me. It was that point in your life when you say, “I need to grow up.” So, I wrote about meeting a man from Ireland and well, you just have to read it and find out what happened to me.

What have you written?
The Chosen Series, The Good Bye Trilogy, Following the Sun, One Missing Link, 77 Steps,Sunday Hill, and a few other short stories for anthologies.

Is there a message in your book and/or books?
There is a message inside every single one of them. There is no doubt that you or someone close to you has gone through something I write about in my novels.

Is there anything in your book and/or books based on real life experiences?
Yes, absolutely. Unsettled is about 90% true and the next few books in that series slowly become fictional.

Who is your favorite character from one of your stories?
I love Samantha Hughes from Unrequited. She was the only one I truly hated and then fell in love with by the end. Her character was both entertaining and emotional to write.

What actor do you see playing them in a movie?
I could see Kate Hudson playing Samantha.

What books and/or writers have influenced you the most?
I love the classics. I had to since English was my degree in Undergraduate. The more contemporary authors include Christina Lauren, Addison Moore, Jay Northcote, and many more.

What is your favorite book?
Right now, it is a book called The Return by Brad Boney. It is a M/M novel - however the story is so clever and Boney’s writing is both informative and entertaining.

How do you conquer writer’s block?
I always get my ideas in the shower. Some weeks I am cleaner than others.

What has been your greatest challenge when writing?
I write first person past tense and use certain words so much that I hate writing some days. I am trying to retrain my brain to write present tense third person.

How do you rejuvenate after a writing session?
I love a good cup of coffee.

What is your funniest experience in writing?
Hmm… that’s a tough question. I think I have the fun moments when I am done and can talk about the book with others.

What are you working on right now?
The new Series Sunday Hill. The first book is titled 77 Steps and is set to release on 7.17. After that, I need to dig my heels in for the final book Elastic Hope in The Good Bye Trilogy.

What have you learned and do you have any advice for other authors?
Don’t expect everyone to love you. It will never happen. Keep your head down and slowly write a great book. You also need a great marketing team.

16. What famous person would you like to meet? Why?
I would love to meet anyone from the show Game of Thrones. I love them all and it would just be so fun to sit and chat with them about the shock attack that show has on viewers.

If you could go anywhere in the world? Where?
My first international trip will be to Ireland. I have to go.




About the Book
What happens when the past rears its ugly head and messes with who you thought you were? Will it break down all your walls and set your whole world on fire?

Meet Julia Delaney, a.k.a Jules, the lead singer of Love Sick Ponies, sex superstar, and a heart full of rocks. She loves them and leaves them, a bad girl through and through.

That is until she meets Brennan Curtis, a fan boy, a wannabe friend, and the only one who can possibly tear Jules’ walls down.

When the plastic snaps wide open, Jules finds herself in a vulnerable and awkward situation with Brennan and her band.

Jules’ journey of self-discovery started at a young age and her self- image, which is ingrained in her brain, might just be there for life. Desperate to alter how people view her, she realizes that she might never be able to escape the past.




Amazon Links:

US: http://bit.ly/uspcam
UK: http://bit.ly/ukplasticconfidence
AUDIO: http://adbl.co/1xCXhLC


About the Author
Alisa Mullen grew up on the Coast of Southern Maine. She has a BA from Texas A&M University and a MS from Our Lady of Lake University. When she isn’t writing, she enjoys reading, making necklaces and spending time with family. Mullen owns a macramé necklace business, Devika Knots, and you can find her at farmer’s markets throughout South Texas almost every weekend.




 Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zFaQ_J51z5U 
Amazon Links: 
US: http://bit.ly/uspcam
UK: http://bit.ly/ukplasticconfidenceAUDIO: http://adbl.co/1xCXhLC 

Social Media Links for Alisa:

FB Fan Page: http://bit.ly/Amullen

Amazon BIO Page: http://tinyurl.com/amazonmullen

Goodreads Page: http://bit.ly/goodreadsamullen

Twitter: @alimullenbooks (https://twitter.com/alimullenbooks)

Instagram: http://instagram.com/alisamullen2014/

Google Plus: http://bit.ly/amullengoogle

TsU: http://www.tsu.co/alimullenbooks

Website: http://bit.ly/Alisamullenwebsite

Blog:
http://bit.ly/amullenblog

Author dB: http://authorsdb.com/authors-directory/12126-alisa-mullen

Anthology: http://bit.ly/sinnersaints

Crazy Lady Authors Page: http://crazyladyauthors.weebly.com/alisa-mullen.html

DK STORE: http://mkt.com/devika-knots

Square Store: https://squareup.com/market/alisa-mullen-author


About A.E. Albert

A Writer's Short Story: Book Promoting & Writing Your Next Book


A Writer’s Short Story:Book Promoting & Writing Your Next Book
by Gita V. Redding

“My books aren’t selling,” I complained. “I worked very hard on them and I know they’re good. I’ve got reviews from strangers to prove it.”


Silence. God wasn’t listening to my moan. Of late, it had become an everyday affair.


“I took early retirement because I wanted to write. 

I typed thousands of words using my index fingers. I edited each book until I was sick of it. I tested my books on beta readers. I spent a lot of time and effort on the covers. 
Do you know that Amazon and Smashwords have different formatting guidelines? And the formatting for the print edition is again different. I am not computer savvy and it took a lot of effort but I uploaded my books in all the formats.”


“What are you unhappy about?” God asked.


“My books aren’t selling. After all the work I put into them, my books aren’t selling. When they are free, thousands of people download them.  But when they are priced, even at the minimum $0.99, barely anyone buys them.”


“You quit your job, worked your fingers off, and published four novels, eight chapter books, and four short story collections.”


“Yes,” I said, pleased that God had kept track of my books. I waited for him to continue but he didn’t.


“And?” I prompted.


“What are you unhappy about? You wanted to be a writer. You worked hard and have sixteen books to show for it. Aren’t you thankful I put you on earth in the age of Amazon and Smashwords?”


“MY BOOKS AREN’T SELLING!”


“Work on that,” God said, and tuned me out.


He was, as usual, spot on. My marketing efforts were always brief and sporadic. I spent a lot more time writing than promoting. I decided to keep my next book on hold and plunge into promoting the ones that were out.


Book promotion is all about improving visibility. Amazon’s search engines display books according to price range, highest to lowest or lowest to highest, or as per average number of reviews.
There are always too many free or $0.99 books out there so I needed more reviews.  In fact, two or three hundred reviews at least if I wanted my books to appear within the first five pages.


I did not have more than a dozen reviews at present. I couldn’t get two or three hundred reviews. I needed a different strategy. I needed professional help. I invited my friend and her son, who is an MBA in marketing, for tea.


“Marketing is based on four Ps. Product comes first,” Anil said. Anil works for a global company and draws a six figure monthly salary. He is giving me his precious time because I have known him since he was a toddler.


“Anil, the books er…the product is good. Here, read the reviews.”


“Later. Determination of Price comes next.”


“My novels were at $3.99 and the chapter books at $0.99. Now they are for $0.99 and free because I read somewhere that readers don't like to risk more than $0.99 cents on books by unknown writers.”


“The third P is the distribution channel which takes your product to the customer.”


“My books are in all the major e-stores and the print editions are on amazon.”


“That’s good. The final P is the Promotional Strategy. It must be aimed at making an integrated effort to discover, create, arouse, and satisfy customer needs. You must not think about merely selling a book; that is short term. You must create a readership that is convinced it cannot do without any of your books. How have you been promoting your books?”


“I joined Goodreads, Book and Reader, and LibraryThing. I post my new releases and offers in their promotional folders and ask for reviews. I'm not sure it helps because very few people view those folders. I also have a facebook fan page. I tried to get a book included in Bookbub but they rejected it. I advertised through The Fussy Librarian and got a few sales.”


“Do you have a blog?”


“I’m not a blogger. I don't have the talent for blogging.” 


My friend interrupted. “You are a writer. Why can't you blog?”


“I write fiction. Blogging is different. Every writer is not a blogger, nor is every blogger a fiction writer.”


“You can post short fiction on your blog.”


“I can’t. I like to work on one project at a time.”


Anil glanced at his watch. He had a meeting to attend.


“Anil, your mother told me your company markets the best brands. How do you pick the products?”


“We prefer the top brands because it is easier to build a campaign around their products.”


Not very different from BookBub, I thought.


“Anil, how do you buy a book?”


Anil looked uncomfortable. “I usually download free books from amazon. I don’t get much time to read so there’s no point in buying books.”


“How do you select the free books?”


“From the average rating based on customer reviews.”


After Anil and my friend left, I had another conversation, not with God, with myself.


“Do you have the time and money to promote your books?”


“No.”


“Do you have the energy to promote your books?”


“No.”


“Do you enjoy promoting your books?”


“No.”


“What do you want to do?”


“Write my next book. Send out a few review requests. Not freak out over sales reports.”


“Let’s do it. What shall we write?”


“A regency romance. I've never written one before.”



About the Author

Gita V. Reddy is the author of the Middle Grade Fantasy, Cheetaka, Queen of Giants, three other novels, eight chapter books, and three short story collections.
Cheetaka, Queen of Giants is available as an ebook on amazon, smashwords, apple, and other ebook stores. 

Amazon Author Page

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