Tonya Coffey's Blog - Posts Tagged "books"
Public Libraries
I have found the public library is a remarkable institution. It is run by the biggest book lovers in the world. It doesn't matter if you have read all your life or picked it up when your kids started school. They give you advise on the books they think you would like and they inspire you to visit these worlds you never knew existed.
When I was little, I always went to the library. They had a story hour that I loved. The older I got, I seemed to stray from the stories that made me feel like a hero or take me to a country I would never get a chance to visit.
When my kids were older and they didn't need me as much, I stopped by the library. I wasn't for sure what I was looking for but I wanted something that made me feel like I had a purpose again. After talking to one of the ladies, I told her I like paranormal. She introduced me to a few series that I would read over and over again.
One, Jennifer Rardin's Jazz Parks novels propelled me into a world of action, mystery and love. I wanted more when I read hers and it saddened me dearly when she passed away.
Two, Rachel Vincent's Shifters Series. The moment I picked up book 1, I didn't stop reading until I was finished with the series. For four days I read about a woman who wanted to be someone else but she accepted her roll as a shapeshifting panther and took control of her Pride. I love these books!
Three, J.R. Ward's, Black Dagger Brotherhood. The only thing I can say about them is WOW. This woman knows how to tell a story.
Four, Sherrylin Kenyon's, Dark-Hunter novels. What drew me to them was the idea vampires came from the gods and you had good and evil ones. She gave a new spin to an old classic that I still read.
I could go on and on about the stories I read. The vampires, fledglings, werewolves, demons, faeries, succubus and angels. I can't stop picking up a book and reading it. It takes me to a place of magic and joy, I'd forgotten about. So I have to think the ladies at the library for opening my eyes to the beautiful worlds they hold inside. If it wasn't for them, I couldn't go to these new worlds and experience the lives living in each of them.
So to them, I say thank you.
When I was little, I always went to the library. They had a story hour that I loved. The older I got, I seemed to stray from the stories that made me feel like a hero or take me to a country I would never get a chance to visit.
When my kids were older and they didn't need me as much, I stopped by the library. I wasn't for sure what I was looking for but I wanted something that made me feel like I had a purpose again. After talking to one of the ladies, I told her I like paranormal. She introduced me to a few series that I would read over and over again.
One, Jennifer Rardin's Jazz Parks novels propelled me into a world of action, mystery and love. I wanted more when I read hers and it saddened me dearly when she passed away.
Two, Rachel Vincent's Shifters Series. The moment I picked up book 1, I didn't stop reading until I was finished with the series. For four days I read about a woman who wanted to be someone else but she accepted her roll as a shapeshifting panther and took control of her Pride. I love these books!
Three, J.R. Ward's, Black Dagger Brotherhood. The only thing I can say about them is WOW. This woman knows how to tell a story.
Four, Sherrylin Kenyon's, Dark-Hunter novels. What drew me to them was the idea vampires came from the gods and you had good and evil ones. She gave a new spin to an old classic that I still read.
I could go on and on about the stories I read. The vampires, fledglings, werewolves, demons, faeries, succubus and angels. I can't stop picking up a book and reading it. It takes me to a place of magic and joy, I'd forgotten about. So I have to think the ladies at the library for opening my eyes to the beautiful worlds they hold inside. If it wasn't for them, I couldn't go to these new worlds and experience the lives living in each of them.
So to them, I say thank you.
Book Signing
My local library hosted me a book signing when my book first came out. I was thrilled they wanted to support me and show others in the county that we were more than factory workers.
I had read online articles and blogs about a first time authors success at book signings. I was a little bummed when I read most first time authors won't even sell ten books. That was sad to me but I understand. We aren't coming out of the gate with a thousand fans. We have to build the audience and hope the ones who know about us will tell their friends and so forth. I've been lucky. I sold more than ten at two signings. But I'm not only interested in the money, as my husband is. I want to share my worlds with everyone else. I think they are so amazing and fun that I can't contain them and what better way than to write a book and share it with the world.
Once again I have been lucky enough to be invited to an author's day. I'm excited to meet other local authors and hear what they have to say about their books. I only hope I can articulate my own vision.
I had read online articles and blogs about a first time authors success at book signings. I was a little bummed when I read most first time authors won't even sell ten books. That was sad to me but I understand. We aren't coming out of the gate with a thousand fans. We have to build the audience and hope the ones who know about us will tell their friends and so forth. I've been lucky. I sold more than ten at two signings. But I'm not only interested in the money, as my husband is. I want to share my worlds with everyone else. I think they are so amazing and fun that I can't contain them and what better way than to write a book and share it with the world.
Once again I have been lucky enough to be invited to an author's day. I'm excited to meet other local authors and hear what they have to say about their books. I only hope I can articulate my own vision.
Excitment
I'm pretty excited about my second book. I know all writers get anxious and all that when they get closer to finishing.
I decided to start a giveaway, again. I wanted more people to see the book and maybe fall in love with the cover and read it. I didn't realize how hard it would be to promote your book. I'm one of those people who goes to town (grocery store and pay the bills)once a week. I go to Walmart maybe three times a month but I doubt it. If it's a special occasion then I go more.
I'm trying hard to talk to schools about the book. They don't seem to be interested unless I donate two books to them. I would love to donate to each and every school but I can't afford it. But I'm not in it to get rich only to share my stories with others.
So, the reason for this ramble, I'm going over Snow Moon. I've reworked it and added some things. I started reading it from the beginning and realized how much I loved these characters. They are my family just as my kids and husband are. I would be lost if they weren't in my life. If I couldn't read what they were up to.
That makes me laugh and so does Micha.
I was worried about Micha in the book. I made him a little emotional. He has been through so much in the short time he has known Jessa but before that, he's been through more. We find that out in this book.
I can't wait to share this book with you and the world. I think you will be surprised by Micha's life and their relationship. I hope it turns out the way I want.
I decided to start a giveaway, again. I wanted more people to see the book and maybe fall in love with the cover and read it. I didn't realize how hard it would be to promote your book. I'm one of those people who goes to town (grocery store and pay the bills)once a week. I go to Walmart maybe three times a month but I doubt it. If it's a special occasion then I go more.
I'm trying hard to talk to schools about the book. They don't seem to be interested unless I donate two books to them. I would love to donate to each and every school but I can't afford it. But I'm not in it to get rich only to share my stories with others.
So, the reason for this ramble, I'm going over Snow Moon. I've reworked it and added some things. I started reading it from the beginning and realized how much I loved these characters. They are my family just as my kids and husband are. I would be lost if they weren't in my life. If I couldn't read what they were up to.
That makes me laugh and so does Micha.
I was worried about Micha in the book. I made him a little emotional. He has been through so much in the short time he has known Jessa but before that, he's been through more. We find that out in this book.
I can't wait to share this book with you and the world. I think you will be surprised by Micha's life and their relationship. I hope it turns out the way I want.
Holiday Blues...
I have found the holidays are not what I expected them to be.
It is hot for one thing. I live in Kentucky. It doesn't always snow on Christmas but it is usually cold and since I put Christmas lights up outside in a short-sleeved shirt it is kind of ridiculous. But I am glad that the kids can go outside and run around.
I've been so focused on trying to promote my book that I haven't finished picking up presents for the family. If I had a credit card, I would buy everything online so I don't have to go to the store. It would just be easier...
I've also been a little discouraged. I thought my family would be more supportive of the new book. But it seems as if they don't even acknowledge it's been published...(Sigh).
I know everyone has other things on their mind but couldn't they comment on the cover or the title. They don't have to read it -yet- but I do want some reviews from them by the end of January.
Am I being selfish for wanting them to focus on me for a few seconds?
I guess I need to forget about the book until after the holidays and then focus on it full-force, until the next book is ready to be released. I do know one thing for certain, I will make sure the next book comes out in the spring, so I don't have to worry about other things, just the book.
It is hot for one thing. I live in Kentucky. It doesn't always snow on Christmas but it is usually cold and since I put Christmas lights up outside in a short-sleeved shirt it is kind of ridiculous. But I am glad that the kids can go outside and run around.
I've been so focused on trying to promote my book that I haven't finished picking up presents for the family. If I had a credit card, I would buy everything online so I don't have to go to the store. It would just be easier...
I've also been a little discouraged. I thought my family would be more supportive of the new book. But it seems as if they don't even acknowledge it's been published...(Sigh).
I know everyone has other things on their mind but couldn't they comment on the cover or the title. They don't have to read it -yet- but I do want some reviews from them by the end of January.
Am I being selfish for wanting them to focus on me for a few seconds?
I guess I need to forget about the book until after the holidays and then focus on it full-force, until the next book is ready to be released. I do know one thing for certain, I will make sure the next book comes out in the spring, so I don't have to worry about other things, just the book.
Reviewers
For my second book I have worked hard trying to find reviewers interested in reading book 1 and 2. I gave out books and epubs just so I could get a review and others would see what the books were about from another persons point of view.
When I contacted the blogs and individuals, I asked that they read the books and place their review within a reasonable time. I felt as if four weeks - per book - was sufficient. Most people, who like to read, can read one book in two days. I get they have others to review as well, but why agree to do something if you know you can't?
I have agreed to review swaps. For some odd reason, I am the one who places the review first and I am still waiting on those people to add their review for my book.
It is so frustrating knowing who to trust with their word. I guess I am old fashioned because I believe your word is everything. If you say you are going to do something then do it.
Another thing about reviews, how bluntly honest should you even be? I have read a few books where I spot mistakes and I am not an editor. Should you point out everything or should you look at the story in a different way? Look at the plot, the descriptions, the characters.
I read one book that I was so surprised at the mistakes. This book is a best seller and has over fifty positive reviews. I reviewed it and I gave it a good review because of the details in the story. Is it wrong to do that? Should I tell them they need an editor to look over their story?
I don't know. Sometimes I feel as if I am struggling to stay above water. With husband, kids, and other problems that loom to every person who has only one income, I am beginning to think I picked a bad time to follow my dream of writing.
If the reviewers I contacted will not post a review and share their thoughts with their readers, I don't know if my husband will allow the series to continue.
When I contacted the blogs and individuals, I asked that they read the books and place their review within a reasonable time. I felt as if four weeks - per book - was sufficient. Most people, who like to read, can read one book in two days. I get they have others to review as well, but why agree to do something if you know you can't?
I have agreed to review swaps. For some odd reason, I am the one who places the review first and I am still waiting on those people to add their review for my book.
It is so frustrating knowing who to trust with their word. I guess I am old fashioned because I believe your word is everything. If you say you are going to do something then do it.
Another thing about reviews, how bluntly honest should you even be? I have read a few books where I spot mistakes and I am not an editor. Should you point out everything or should you look at the story in a different way? Look at the plot, the descriptions, the characters.
I read one book that I was so surprised at the mistakes. This book is a best seller and has over fifty positive reviews. I reviewed it and I gave it a good review because of the details in the story. Is it wrong to do that? Should I tell them they need an editor to look over their story?
I don't know. Sometimes I feel as if I am struggling to stay above water. With husband, kids, and other problems that loom to every person who has only one income, I am beginning to think I picked a bad time to follow my dream of writing.
If the reviewers I contacted will not post a review and share their thoughts with their readers, I don't know if my husband will allow the series to continue.
Book Signing 2
I had a wonderful time last night at my book signing. I meet a bunch of people who didn't know about the first book and fans who came to buy the second. One girl in particular inspires me more than I do her. She is a teenager who wants to become a writer one day. She has a leg up on her goal, she writes for the local newspaper and I'm very proud of her.
We talk through email and I hope one day she becomes the author she wants to be, because I think she has lots of potential and drive.
It's strange how it makes a person feel standing next to their books and people glance at you as they walk by. I'm in a library so I hate to ask them to buy my book, but I do. I ask them how they are, if they like fantasy and tell them about the series. Usually, 8 out of 10 will tell me sorry, they don't have any money. So I smile and say well they have here in the library you can check it out. They usually smile bigger than me and say, I will defiantly do that.
I understand how hard it is for most people and I don't expect everyone to buy a book but I hope they do. :)
We talk through email and I hope one day she becomes the author she wants to be, because I think she has lots of potential and drive.
It's strange how it makes a person feel standing next to their books and people glance at you as they walk by. I'm in a library so I hate to ask them to buy my book, but I do. I ask them how they are, if they like fantasy and tell them about the series. Usually, 8 out of 10 will tell me sorry, they don't have any money. So I smile and say well they have here in the library you can check it out. They usually smile bigger than me and say, I will defiantly do that.
I understand how hard it is for most people and I don't expect everyone to buy a book but I hope they do. :)
