Sorry, I've been a bit neglectful. But I promise it's not due to laziness. I have been keeping busy and out of trouble.
Some great news about my Co-Series here: Newport Ladies Book Club
Also, this past weekend, some of my backlist titles were put onto Kindle, including Abinadi, Alma,
Alma the Younger
Which of you are on Twitter? You can follow me at: heatherbmoore
Or you can follow my editing company: pegeditors
And, I was recently a guest on the Appendix Podcast with Marion Jensen & Sarah Eden, where we discuss: Is My Book Garbage?
Upcoming Events:
September 16-17, 2011 - LUW Roundup Writers Conference
Logan, Utah
A great writers conference. My PEG editors and I will be there as instructors.
Registration info on the LUW Website
October 1, 2011 - Ladies Night book signing @ Deseret Book
6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Fort Union Deseret Book (Utah)
Showing posts with label Alma the Elder. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Alma the Elder. Show all posts
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
My Publishing Journey--Part 10
Read Part 9 Here
My Publishing Journey
Part 10
A few months before Abinadi came out, I was sitting around doing nothing (kidding). But I did decide that now that I had 5 books almost out, perhaps I had developed enough of a platform to write on a non-fiction topic: Women of the Book of Mormon.
I often have readers tell me that they are grateful I’ve used women characters in my book since we hear so little about the women in the Book of Mormon. I agreed, but was I the one to do the research? Yes, I’d researched Sariah and a couple of the other women for various presentations I’d given, but was it enough to write an entire book?
Later, when I told my tax accountant that I had a book coming out on Women of the Book of Mormon, he said, “What is it, 5 pages long?”
The book ended up about 75 pages in manuscript form, and it took my nearly a year to write and research it. When I took the first chapter to critique group, they said it was reading rather dry. So I knew I had to make it more into a storytelling style—or essay style and not just a list of facts. So I got to work. I turned in the book the summer of 2009.
While slowly researching and writing “Women”, I worked on Alma. I ran into a snag while writing Alma, which is kind of interesting. Writers call it “writing into a corner” where you don’t know how to get out of it. I finally found a way out, but the plot had to get pretty creative. Originally I had the title for this book as Alma the Elder, but the publisher decided to have it plain “Alma” since he didn’t have any children born yet to make him an “elder”.
Alma was scheduled for a Fall 2009 release, and as soon as I got “Women” turned in, I started the next novel, Alma the Younger.
Alma the Younger was a bit of a different process. Yes, there would be the plot to follow in the book of Alma, but I had to make some character decisions about Alma the Younger. The book would ultimately turn out to be a character-driven book. I knew that some of my regular reviewers wouldn’t like the story angle, and I was right. In fact one reviewer posted on Goodreads why she wouldn’t be reviewing the book in her regular column. Researching Alma the Younger showed that he was a truly wicked and vile man, and I didn’t gloss over any of his wickedness. This book was darker than my other books, and harder to write for that reason. It wasn’t a happy “feel-good” book and covered some very difficult issues. It was writing about an antagonist who was also the protagonist of the story. I had one lady at a book signing say that she didn’t want to read about the redemption of a prophet, but just about the good things he did—not about the struggles it took him to get there. She didn’t want to have any bad thoughts about him.
But I was okay with that. The point of telling about Alma the Younger’s fall into the dark abyss and his eventual rise to become a righteous leader is perhaps a beacon of hope for many of us who might find ourselves in the depths of despair. And I’d already heard the worst on the book from a copyeditor. (A copyeditor is one of the final editors who proofs the manuscript for typos, grammar, and inconsistencies.) Going through the copyedit, I immediately sensed she didn’t care for the story. I discovered I was right when at the very end of the edit she proclaimed, “This book will kill your series.” (Which, by the way, statements like that are NOT in the job description of a professional copyeditor.)
I think it gave my editor pause—she second-guessed herself, wondering with all the work she’d done, she had been missing something. I said to my editor, “What was your first impression when you read the story?” She said, “I loved it.” I said, “Let’s go with that.”
Whatever the struggles I had with Alma the Younger, they were all completely erased when this review (by a non-member, no less), came in.
My Publishing Journey
Part 10
A few months before Abinadi came out, I was sitting around doing nothing (kidding). But I did decide that now that I had 5 books almost out, perhaps I had developed enough of a platform to write on a non-fiction topic: Women of the Book of Mormon.
I often have readers tell me that they are grateful I’ve used women characters in my book since we hear so little about the women in the Book of Mormon. I agreed, but was I the one to do the research? Yes, I’d researched Sariah and a couple of the other women for various presentations I’d given, but was it enough to write an entire book?
Later, when I told my tax accountant that I had a book coming out on Women of the Book of Mormon, he said, “What is it, 5 pages long?”
The book ended up about 75 pages in manuscript form, and it took my nearly a year to write and research it. When I took the first chapter to critique group, they said it was reading rather dry. So I knew I had to make it more into a storytelling style—or essay style and not just a list of facts. So I got to work. I turned in the book the summer of 2009.
While slowly researching and writing “Women”, I worked on Alma. I ran into a snag while writing Alma, which is kind of interesting. Writers call it “writing into a corner” where you don’t know how to get out of it. I finally found a way out, but the plot had to get pretty creative. Originally I had the title for this book as Alma the Elder, but the publisher decided to have it plain “Alma” since he didn’t have any children born yet to make him an “elder”.
Alma was scheduled for a Fall 2009 release, and as soon as I got “Women” turned in, I started the next novel, Alma the Younger.
Alma the Younger was a bit of a different process. Yes, there would be the plot to follow in the book of Alma, but I had to make some character decisions about Alma the Younger. The book would ultimately turn out to be a character-driven book. I knew that some of my regular reviewers wouldn’t like the story angle, and I was right. In fact one reviewer posted on Goodreads why she wouldn’t be reviewing the book in her regular column. Researching Alma the Younger showed that he was a truly wicked and vile man, and I didn’t gloss over any of his wickedness. This book was darker than my other books, and harder to write for that reason. It wasn’t a happy “feel-good” book and covered some very difficult issues. It was writing about an antagonist who was also the protagonist of the story. I had one lady at a book signing say that she didn’t want to read about the redemption of a prophet, but just about the good things he did—not about the struggles it took him to get there. She didn’t want to have any bad thoughts about him.
But I was okay with that. The point of telling about Alma the Younger’s fall into the dark abyss and his eventual rise to become a righteous leader is perhaps a beacon of hope for many of us who might find ourselves in the depths of despair. And I’d already heard the worst on the book from a copyeditor. (A copyeditor is one of the final editors who proofs the manuscript for typos, grammar, and inconsistencies.) Going through the copyedit, I immediately sensed she didn’t care for the story. I discovered I was right when at the very end of the edit she proclaimed, “This book will kill your series.” (Which, by the way, statements like that are NOT in the job description of a professional copyeditor.)
I think it gave my editor pause—she second-guessed herself, wondering with all the work she’d done, she had been missing something. I said to my editor, “What was your first impression when you read the story?” She said, “I loved it.” I said, “Let’s go with that.”
Whatever the struggles I had with Alma the Younger, they were all completely erased when this review (by a non-member, no less), came in.
Friday, July 9, 2010
My books aren't for kids
Well, I do have some younger fans around 11 or 12. I even had a 10 year old tell me she enjoyed my books. But in general, I haven't written my historical novels to children. Just because they are LDS novels, and very "clean", doesn't mean I'd advise children to read them. There are certainly adult themes. Themes . . . say found in the Book of Mormon . . . if you know what I mean.
Sometimes when reading scriptures with my kids, I've glossed over parts because of my kids' sensitive natures. They become disturbed quite easily. Some of the events that take place in the Book of Mormon are hard to stomach (just as in the Bible). Ammon alludes to this fact when he talks about a particularly dark era in Lamanite culture when they delight in the shedding of blood and have spent their days in the grossest iniquities (Alma 26:24).
Other parts I can hardly dwell on, such as when the people were so horribly wicked that they offered up human sacrifices (Mormon 4:14) and practiced cannibalism (Moroni 9:7-8).
One thing I've been told time and time again, and have read in many reviews, is that the readers are grateful that I don't gloss over the unsavory portions of the events. I don't hide behind sweet words and brush past serious sin. Neither did the authors of the Book of Mormon.
So, if you are planning on listening to the audio in the car on a family vacation when you have young ears listening, I'd advise against it. Although there is no foul language, graphic descriptions of violence, details describing any harlotry practices, the events are serious and sobering. Redemption is a powerful theme in the Book of Mormon, and I've tried to emulate that in my novels. But before redemption, there must be a fall.
Out of Jerusalem: Of Goodly Parents: Covers 1 Nephi 1-16. In this book (as in the scriptures) Nephi's brothers try to kill him. Nephi kills Laban at the behest of the Lord.
Out of Jerusalem: A Light in the Wilderness: 1 Nephi again. Covers the journey through the wilderness which lasted 8 years. An attempt by Laman and Lemuel in killing their father and brother. Child birth situations.
Out of Jerusalem: Towards the Promised Land: 1 Nephi--events take place in the land of Bountiful when building the ship. Two more attempts on Nephi's life. (Can you say Laman and Lemuel belong in PRISON?)
Out of Jerusalem: Land of Inheritance: 1 and 2 Nephi. After the death of Lehi, Nephi finally leaves his brothers, taking those who wish with him. Because of the severe wickedness of Laman and Lemuel, they are cursed by the Lord.
Abinadi: You got it, this is about Abinadi, who becomes a religious martyr and is executed by King Noah for his beliefs. King Noah is a vile man who keeps a harem of harlots. Alma, one of his wicked high priests who partakes in the evil court of Noah, will eventually repent and turn his life around.
Alma: Continuation of previous volume. Alma is on the run with his followers from Amulon, who, according to scholar Hugh Nibley is the most wicked man in the Book of Mormon.
Alma the Younger: Takes place 20 years after "Alma". We learn about Alma's son, who is born into privilege of position, yet throws it away and turns against his roots. This is no teenager who skips Sunday school, but a man with passion, power, and influence, becoming an anti-Christ who leads hundreds of souls away from the church.
So I will leave the decision up to you, dear reader. As for my family, my two teens (13 and 15) have read my books. My 10 year old has not--I'd be okay with her reading the Out of Jerusalem series, but Abinadi/Alma/Alma the Younger will have to wait another couple of years.
Sometimes when reading scriptures with my kids, I've glossed over parts because of my kids' sensitive natures. They become disturbed quite easily. Some of the events that take place in the Book of Mormon are hard to stomach (just as in the Bible). Ammon alludes to this fact when he talks about a particularly dark era in Lamanite culture when they delight in the shedding of blood and have spent their days in the grossest iniquities (Alma 26:24).
Other parts I can hardly dwell on, such as when the people were so horribly wicked that they offered up human sacrifices (Mormon 4:14) and practiced cannibalism (Moroni 9:7-8).
One thing I've been told time and time again, and have read in many reviews, is that the readers are grateful that I don't gloss over the unsavory portions of the events. I don't hide behind sweet words and brush past serious sin. Neither did the authors of the Book of Mormon.
So, if you are planning on listening to the audio in the car on a family vacation when you have young ears listening, I'd advise against it. Although there is no foul language, graphic descriptions of violence, details describing any harlotry practices, the events are serious and sobering. Redemption is a powerful theme in the Book of Mormon, and I've tried to emulate that in my novels. But before redemption, there must be a fall.
Out of Jerusalem: Of Goodly Parents: Covers 1 Nephi 1-16. In this book (as in the scriptures) Nephi's brothers try to kill him. Nephi kills Laban at the behest of the Lord.
Out of Jerusalem: A Light in the Wilderness: 1 Nephi again. Covers the journey through the wilderness which lasted 8 years. An attempt by Laman and Lemuel in killing their father and brother. Child birth situations.
Out of Jerusalem: Towards the Promised Land: 1 Nephi--events take place in the land of Bountiful when building the ship. Two more attempts on Nephi's life. (Can you say Laman and Lemuel belong in PRISON?)
Out of Jerusalem: Land of Inheritance: 1 and 2 Nephi. After the death of Lehi, Nephi finally leaves his brothers, taking those who wish with him. Because of the severe wickedness of Laman and Lemuel, they are cursed by the Lord.
Abinadi: You got it, this is about Abinadi, who becomes a religious martyr and is executed by King Noah for his beliefs. King Noah is a vile man who keeps a harem of harlots. Alma, one of his wicked high priests who partakes in the evil court of Noah, will eventually repent and turn his life around.
Alma: Continuation of previous volume. Alma is on the run with his followers from Amulon, who, according to scholar Hugh Nibley is the most wicked man in the Book of Mormon.
Alma the Younger: Takes place 20 years after "Alma". We learn about Alma's son, who is born into privilege of position, yet throws it away and turns against his roots. This is no teenager who skips Sunday school, but a man with passion, power, and influence, becoming an anti-Christ who leads hundreds of souls away from the church.
So I will leave the decision up to you, dear reader. As for my family, my two teens (13 and 15) have read my books. My 10 year old has not--I'd be okay with her reading the Out of Jerusalem series, but Abinadi/Alma/Alma the Younger will have to wait another couple of years.
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Whitneys & Upcoming Marketing Ideas
Those of you who are following the Whitney Award Nominees will know that ALMA was nominated as a finalist in the Historical Fiction category. I'm very honored! I'm glad that I forgot about the pending announcement and slept in that morning (my kids were out of school on Friday). I checked my phone for emails and saw something about the finalists being announced, so I had to, of course, go on my computer to discover who had made the cut. The small screen on my phone wouldn't suffice. Since Historical was the second to last category, I very slowly scrolled down, reading over the other categories to see if any of my predictions had come true. I was probably 75% on my predictions.When I saw ALMA listed, I breathed a sigh of relief, then looked for several other books that I thought were excellent. Some made it, some didn't. It seemed every minute was a new revelation--what about this book or that book? I don't envy the judges in some of those categories. As you know, I've read quite a bit of fiction by LDS authors this year. Out of all the final nominees, there are only 9 that I haven't read.
Below, I've highlighted the books that I've read:
BEST ROMANCE: Counting the Cost, by Liz Adair; Illuminations of the Heart, by Joyce DiPastena; All the Stars in Heaven, by Michele Paige Holmes; Santa Maybe, by Aubrey Mace; Previously Engaged, by Elodia Strain.
MYSTERY/SUSPENSE: Lockdown, by Traci Hunter Abramson; Methods of Madness, by Stephanie Black; Murder by the Book, by Betsy Brannon Green; Lemon Tart, by Josi Kilpack; Altered State, by Gregg Luke.
YOUTH FICTION: Princess of the Midnight Ball, by Jessica Day George; Fablehaven IV: Secrets of the Dragon Sanctuary, by Brandon Mull; My Fair Godmother, by Janette Rallison; Bright Blue Miracle, by Becca Wilhite; The Chosen One, by Carol Lynch Williams.
SPECULATIVE: Servant of a Dark God, by John Brown; The Maze Runner, by James Dashner; Wings, by Aprilynne Pike; Warbreaker, by Brandon Sanderson; I Am Not A Serial Killer, by Dan Wells.
HISTORICAL: Tribunal, by Sandra Grey; The Undaunted, by Gerald Lund; Alma, by H.B. Moore; The Last Waltz, by G.G. Vandagriff; In the Company of Angels, by David Farland (who is also Dave Wolverton).
GENERAL FICTION: Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet, by Jamie Ford; No Going Back, by Jonathon Langford; Gravity vs. The Girl, by Riley Noehren; The Route, by Gale Sears; Eyes Like Mine, by Julie Wright.
Winners of each category will be announced April 24th at the Whitney Award Gala. Also, the Whitney academy will vote in Best Novel and Best Novel by a New Author.
I already have my prediction, though that might change after I read the other nine books. I think these two books will be going neck and neck, although they are complete opposites, they are remarkable in their genres: Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet and The Chosen One.
Do you guys have any favorites going in?
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***************************Marketing Ideas for WOMEN OF THE BOOK OF MORMON:
Vote on whether or not you think I should do a blog tour for this book. It's a more serious, religious type book (although still quite entertaining, especially the chapters on Isabel and the daughter of Jared) . . . so I'm wondering what my fellow bloggers think. If you'd be interested in reading non-fiction (90 page book with PICTURES) and doing a blog review, let me know in the comments. If I find enough interest, then I can start putting a plan together.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Editing & More Editing
Since I'm taking the day off from editing, I thought I'd update.
Alma the Younger is finished! At least as far as I can get it without extra eyes. On Friday I sent it off to the alpha readers. Soon I'll be back to working on revisions to get it into shape for submission. So far, I've received great advice from the alpha readers, and the most important news is that the story works. Yes, there's some fine tuning to be done, but overall, no major changes.
As I'm waiting for final verdicts, I've started working on the evaluations for Women of the Book of Mormon. If you remember, this book was accepted last summer by my publisher. But since there wasn't a firm release date, I moved forward with drafting Alma the Younger and put off revisions until I was notified by the publisher. Well, I was notified a few days ago to get going (in a nice way, of course!).
With a bit of trepedition, I pulled up the three evaluations. I had read them in the summer and remembered that there were some specific things I had to work on. So I wasn't sure if I would be dreading it or feeling confident that they were changes I could successfully make. I read through the evals again and came away with several things to improve and felt they were very doable! So I was relieved and won't be spending a week or two on it like I anticipated, but maybe 4-5 days.
Alma the Younger is finished! At least as far as I can get it without extra eyes. On Friday I sent it off to the alpha readers. Soon I'll be back to working on revisions to get it into shape for submission. So far, I've received great advice from the alpha readers, and the most important news is that the story works. Yes, there's some fine tuning to be done, but overall, no major changes.
As I'm waiting for final verdicts, I've started working on the evaluations for Women of the Book of Mormon. If you remember, this book was accepted last summer by my publisher. But since there wasn't a firm release date, I moved forward with drafting Alma the Younger and put off revisions until I was notified by the publisher. Well, I was notified a few days ago to get going (in a nice way, of course!).
With a bit of trepedition, I pulled up the three evaluations. I had read them in the summer and remembered that there were some specific things I had to work on. So I wasn't sure if I would be dreading it or feeling confident that they were changes I could successfully make. I read through the evals again and came away with several things to improve and felt they were very doable! So I was relieved and won't be spending a week or two on it like I anticipated, but maybe 4-5 days.
THANKS to Walt Eddy of Death & Taxes 4 Writers! His review of Alma popped up on Goodreads awhile ago, but it was only today that I clued in to his blog post. It's one of the most interesting reviews that I've read :-)
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Quick Time Out
First, thanks to Carroll Morris who reviewed Alma on her blog, Crusty Old Ladies. You may know Carroll from her best-selling series, Almost Sisters, that she co-writes with Lael Littke and Nancy Anderson. I actually reviewed on of their books, Surprise Packages, here. Thanks, Carroll!
Also, I'm finalizing Alma the Younger. I'm about 250 pages into the revision. The book right now is about 340 pages. There might be a scene or two to add, but it will top out around 90,000 words. Then onto the readers before I turn it over to the publisher.
Many of you writers are doing the NaNo challenge--you are a bit crazy, but I understand the zombie-writer state. Remember if you're looking for editing advice after getting those 50K words completed, check out my writing/editing blog Writing on the Wall that I share with Lu Ann Staheli, Julie Wright, Josi Kilpack, and Annette Lyon.
Also, I'm finalizing Alma the Younger. I'm about 250 pages into the revision. The book right now is about 340 pages. There might be a scene or two to add, but it will top out around 90,000 words. Then onto the readers before I turn it over to the publisher.
Many of you writers are doing the NaNo challenge--you are a bit crazy, but I understand the zombie-writer state. Remember if you're looking for editing advice after getting those 50K words completed, check out my writing/editing blog Writing on the Wall that I share with Lu Ann Staheli, Julie Wright, Josi Kilpack, and Annette Lyon.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Whitney Nominations and 2 more reviews
Thanks to Cheri Chesley, aspiring writer, for her review of Alma here. She read Alma first, then Abinadi (as I saw on GoodReads). So it can be done :)
Also, thanks to author Tristi Pinkston, who also reviewed Alma here. I've really enjoyed all of Tristi's books and you can see my review of her mystery, Agent in Old Lace, here.
Okay, so I read a lot of books, and I review quite a few. Mostly I just rate them on GoodReads. It's been a very handy tool to find out what my "friends" are reading and what they recommend. It's easy to put together a "to-read" list and then to print it out and stick it in my purse. I often make purchase requests at my library or I buy the books through Amazon, Costco, sometimes Target. Reading has always been a passion of mine, and I really credit reading to starting my journey to becoming a published writer.
The Whitney Awards is an academy that recognizes excellence in fiction written by LDS writers (not to be confused with the LDS genre, but it encompasses that as well). Anyone can nominate a book by an LDS writer by going to http://www.whitneyawards.com/. There are several categories, including Suspense, Romance, Speculative, Historical, General, YA, etc. etc. The deadline to nominate is December 31, 2009, so I am assessing my list of books that I still have to read. A complete (and continually updated) list of books by LDS writers can be found on the LDS Publisher blog.
I know I won't be able to read every book, but I'm trying to make a dent so that I can nominate the best of the best for 2009.
Just for fun, here is a list of the books I've read so far this year that qualify for the Whitney nomination. My reviews of these books are on GoodReads or LDSReaders. I haven't turned in my nominations yet, because I think there are still about 6-7 must-reads before I make a final decision.
Far World 2: Land Keep by J. Scott Savage
The Maze Runner by James Dashner
Hunt for the Dark Infinity by James Dashner
The Hourglass Door by Lisa Mangum
Tower of Strength by Annette Lyon
The Last Waltz by GG Vandagriff
All the Stars in Heaven by Michele Paige Holmes
Lemon Tart by Josi S. Kilpack
English Trifle by Josi S. Kilpack
Methods of Madness by Stephanie Black
Agent in Old Lace by Tristi Pinkston
The Forgotten Warrior by Kathi Oram Peterson
Eyes Like Mine by Julie Wright
Everything is Fine by Ann Dee Ellis
Dragon Spear by Jessica Day George
Princess of the Midnight Ball by Jessica Day George
The Actor and the Housewife by Shannon Hale
Forest Born by Shannon Hale
The Chosen One by Carole Lynch Williams
Pursued by Lynn Gardner
Illuminations of the Heart by Joyce diPastena
The Sister Pact by Cami Checketts
Torn Apart by Diony George
Trail of Storms by Marsha Ward
Wings by Aprilynne Pike
Heroes of the Fallen by David West
Alma by H.B. Moore (of course!)
The Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet by Jamie Ford
Christmas Jars Reunion by Jason F. Wright
On my immediate to-read list, I have:
Shudder by Jennie Hansen
Saving Madeline by Rachel Ann Nunes
Warbreaker by Brandon Sanderson
My Fair Godmother by Janette Rallison
The Ball’s In Her Court by Heather Justesen
The Christmas List by Richard Paul Evans
I know that books are still coming out--what are the books that you think are must-reads? I will add them to my list!
Also, thanks to author Tristi Pinkston, who also reviewed Alma here. I've really enjoyed all of Tristi's books and you can see my review of her mystery, Agent in Old Lace, here.
Okay, so I read a lot of books, and I review quite a few. Mostly I just rate them on GoodReads. It's been a very handy tool to find out what my "friends" are reading and what they recommend. It's easy to put together a "to-read" list and then to print it out and stick it in my purse. I often make purchase requests at my library or I buy the books through Amazon, Costco, sometimes Target. Reading has always been a passion of mine, and I really credit reading to starting my journey to becoming a published writer.
The Whitney Awards is an academy that recognizes excellence in fiction written by LDS writers (not to be confused with the LDS genre, but it encompasses that as well). Anyone can nominate a book by an LDS writer by going to http://www.whitneyawards.com/. There are several categories, including Suspense, Romance, Speculative, Historical, General, YA, etc. etc. The deadline to nominate is December 31, 2009, so I am assessing my list of books that I still have to read. A complete (and continually updated) list of books by LDS writers can be found on the LDS Publisher blog.
I know I won't be able to read every book, but I'm trying to make a dent so that I can nominate the best of the best for 2009.
Just for fun, here is a list of the books I've read so far this year that qualify for the Whitney nomination. My reviews of these books are on GoodReads or LDSReaders. I haven't turned in my nominations yet, because I think there are still about 6-7 must-reads before I make a final decision.
Far World 2: Land Keep by J. Scott Savage
The Maze Runner by James Dashner
Hunt for the Dark Infinity by James Dashner
The Hourglass Door by Lisa Mangum
Tower of Strength by Annette Lyon
The Last Waltz by GG Vandagriff
All the Stars in Heaven by Michele Paige Holmes
Lemon Tart by Josi S. Kilpack
English Trifle by Josi S. Kilpack
Methods of Madness by Stephanie Black
Agent in Old Lace by Tristi Pinkston
The Forgotten Warrior by Kathi Oram Peterson
Eyes Like Mine by Julie Wright
Everything is Fine by Ann Dee Ellis
Dragon Spear by Jessica Day George
Princess of the Midnight Ball by Jessica Day George
The Actor and the Housewife by Shannon Hale
Forest Born by Shannon Hale
The Chosen One by Carole Lynch Williams
Pursued by Lynn Gardner
Illuminations of the Heart by Joyce diPastena
The Sister Pact by Cami Checketts
Torn Apart by Diony George
Trail of Storms by Marsha Ward
Wings by Aprilynne Pike
Heroes of the Fallen by David West
Alma by H.B. Moore (of course!)
The Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet by Jamie Ford
Christmas Jars Reunion by Jason F. Wright
On my immediate to-read list, I have:
Shudder by Jennie Hansen
Saving Madeline by Rachel Ann Nunes
Warbreaker by Brandon Sanderson
My Fair Godmother by Janette Rallison
The Ball’s In Her Court by Heather Justesen
The Christmas List by Richard Paul Evans
I know that books are still coming out--what are the books that you think are must-reads? I will add them to my list!
Monday, October 19, 2009
NEW BOOK & More reviews
This past week, I received some author copies of All Is Bright--a new Christmas compilation. The final version has a small change. I was thinking I might actually be published under my "real" name--Heather Moore, but nope, the final has H.B. Moore. Oh well :-) I've read through most of the Christmas stories and have really enjoyed them. The best part is that the book retails for just a few dollars and will make a great neighbor gift (ready, neighbors?).
Update on Alma the Younger: I haven't written for several days since it was Fall Break and the kids were out of school. So we went to the Arches National Park. My son has been wanting to go forever. Well, he wore us out, even to the point that he was carrying my five year old on his back so we could hike to that next scenic view. So . . . I'm about 230 pages into Alma the Younger. I think it's shaping up pretty well. I have most of Alma the Younger's scenes written, so when I finish, I'll go back through and insert Alma the Elder's point of view scenes.
More Reviews on ALMA:
Thanks to Laurie LC Lewis, who is a historian and author of the historical Free Men and Dreamers series. I was a little nervous about her reading the book because she is very detailed researcher, so check out her review here: Laurie LC Lewis: Book Nook
And thanks to Kate Palmer, who posted an interview on her blog. She has a beautiful webpage and posts all kinds of recipes with step by step pictures. She asked several thought-provoking questions, such as why I chose to write in the view points of the Book of Mormon prophets.
Teri Rodeman is an avid reader and reviewer. She reads a ton, so I was very interested to see what she thought of my book. She compared the story to what our country is facing today. Hmm. There is some truth in that!
Also, prolific author, Sherry Ann Miller, reviewed Alma. She is the author of many books, including the recent Mama's Lemon Pie. Sherry pointed out that she enjoyed the research, selecting the use of rubber in Mesoamerica as an example. I love hearing how each reader comes up with something new that stands out.
And many thanks to Sandra of The Dance, who reviewed Alma as well. I met Sandra at a book group when Provident Books was around. She has become a faithful reader, and I love to visit her blog. She has a great outlook on life.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Two Books for Kids (and you too) & More Blog Tour
Thanks to Kami for reviewing Alma on her blog: A View Thru Many Lenses. She has been a faithful reader :) And she uses her blog to "scrapbook" memories for her kids. Brilliant idea.
Also, Taffy reviewed Alma on her blog: Taffy's Candy (what else would she name her blog?) She is an aspiring writer and posts her WIP word count on the side bar, so it's fun to see it increase. She is also a librarian and I love to talk books with her!
Speaking of books, I read a lot. I admit it. I certainly don't apologize for it. Once in awhile someone will ask me how I find time to read, especially since I'm an author. My answer is that it's part of my job. Just as a dentist goes to a dental convention to learn about the newest technology in veneers, I must read the bestselling books (it's a tough job, I'll tell you. Requires a popcorn.)
This summer I was able to read ARC's of two great books--for kids--but I loved them too. And now they are actually available so I can tell you about them. (And according to the FTC rules, I think I have to announce that I don't get paid to review on these blogs, and one of the ARC's was free, the other I bought on Ebay, but YES, I'll be buying multiple copies of these books for my kids and their friends . . . Also, I think I have to disclose that I know the authors personally--yes I know both--but neither asked me to write reviews.)
If I just lost you, you'll find this post interesting by Literary Agent, Janet Reid:
The Maze Runner
By James Dashner
October 2009, Delacorte Books for Young Readers
Have you ever read a book, then set it down and wondered, “How have I settled for reading so many mediocre books . . . when this one is fantastic?”
“He began his new life standing up . . .”—begins The Maze Runner by bestselling author of The 13th Reality series, James Dashner.
Thomas knows his name, but that’s about it. He’s forgotten everything else. Everything. Even his age.
It’s pitch black, and Thomas is in a metal contraption of sorts—moving upward. When the elevator stops, the top opens to reveal a group of boys staring down at him. “Nice to meet ya, shank,” one of the boys says, “Welcome to the Glade.”
Thomas stumbles into a glade surrounded by a seemingly unsolvable maze. Each night the maze doors shut, and each morning the maze has reconfigured itself. The glad is ran by a group of boys, but no one can get in and no one can get out. Once a week the elevator delivers food and other goods. But the week that Thomas arrives, the elevator stops delivering food. Instead it delivers a girl. The first one to ever come to the Glade.
Thomas not only has to learn to survive, but how to protect his new friends, and solve the maze before the entire population of the Glade falls prey.
The Maze Runner is a definite page-turner that starts out interesting, then quickly hooks you. The dystopian world which Dashner creates is fresh, from the descriptions to the dialog to the actual names of the kids. I loved the puzzle-solving aspect of the book, which having read Dashner’s other books, he is truly masterful at. I’m looking forward to the 2nd book in the series: The Scorch Trials. Dashner is a gifted story-teller.
Farworld: Land Keep
By J. Scott Savage
October 2009, Shadow Mountain
“Water. Land. Air. Fire. Together, the balance of Farworld they keep.” Kyja and Marcus are on a quest to outdo the Dark Circle by convincing the four elementals of Farworld to work together. In the first book of the Farworld series, Water Keep, Marcus and Kyja were able to get the water elementals to cooperate, but now they have to travel to find the land elementals. Problem is, no one can tell them precisely where they are since they’ve been missing for thousands of years.
In this second installment, Land Keep, the captivating adventure continues. Marcus—a boy with magical powers, and Kyja—a girl who wants magic more than anything. The two soon find out that they each have to trade what’s most dear to them in order to survive.
Since Marcus’s birth, sacrifices have been made in his behalf that he is only now beginning to realize. But the longer he stays on Farworld, the faster his health declines. In a race against time, the characters must outsmart the Keepers and determine who is really on their side.
The plot is far from simple, but the complexity is rich and satisfying as questions proposed in Water Keep are answered in Land Keep. A clear picture of this new world emerges as the characters discover that things are not necessarily as they seem. Land Keep is highly visual, fast-paced, with multi-layered intrigue. But most importantly, the characters breathe life into the pages, pulling us into a magical realm. One that is truly powerful.
Also, Taffy reviewed Alma on her blog: Taffy's Candy (what else would she name her blog?) She is an aspiring writer and posts her WIP word count on the side bar, so it's fun to see it increase. She is also a librarian and I love to talk books with her!
Speaking of books, I read a lot. I admit it. I certainly don't apologize for it. Once in awhile someone will ask me how I find time to read, especially since I'm an author. My answer is that it's part of my job. Just as a dentist goes to a dental convention to learn about the newest technology in veneers, I must read the bestselling books (it's a tough job, I'll tell you. Requires a popcorn.)
This summer I was able to read ARC's of two great books--for kids--but I loved them too. And now they are actually available so I can tell you about them. (And according to the FTC rules, I think I have to announce that I don't get paid to review on these blogs, and one of the ARC's was free, the other I bought on Ebay, but YES, I'll be buying multiple copies of these books for my kids and their friends . . . Also, I think I have to disclose that I know the authors personally--yes I know both--but neither asked me to write reviews.)
If I just lost you, you'll find this post interesting by Literary Agent, Janet Reid:
The Maze Runner
By James Dashner
October 2009, Delacorte Books for Young Readers
Have you ever read a book, then set it down and wondered, “How have I settled for reading so many mediocre books . . . when this one is fantastic?”
“He began his new life standing up . . .”—begins The Maze Runner by bestselling author of The 13th Reality series, James Dashner.
Thomas knows his name, but that’s about it. He’s forgotten everything else. Everything. Even his age.
It’s pitch black, and Thomas is in a metal contraption of sorts—moving upward. When the elevator stops, the top opens to reveal a group of boys staring down at him. “Nice to meet ya, shank,” one of the boys says, “Welcome to the Glade.”
Thomas stumbles into a glade surrounded by a seemingly unsolvable maze. Each night the maze doors shut, and each morning the maze has reconfigured itself. The glad is ran by a group of boys, but no one can get in and no one can get out. Once a week the elevator delivers food and other goods. But the week that Thomas arrives, the elevator stops delivering food. Instead it delivers a girl. The first one to ever come to the Glade.
Thomas not only has to learn to survive, but how to protect his new friends, and solve the maze before the entire population of the Glade falls prey.
The Maze Runner is a definite page-turner that starts out interesting, then quickly hooks you. The dystopian world which Dashner creates is fresh, from the descriptions to the dialog to the actual names of the kids. I loved the puzzle-solving aspect of the book, which having read Dashner’s other books, he is truly masterful at. I’m looking forward to the 2nd book in the series: The Scorch Trials. Dashner is a gifted story-teller.
Farworld: Land Keep
By J. Scott Savage
October 2009, Shadow Mountain
“Water. Land. Air. Fire. Together, the balance of Farworld they keep.” Kyja and Marcus are on a quest to outdo the Dark Circle by convincing the four elementals of Farworld to work together. In the first book of the Farworld series, Water Keep, Marcus and Kyja were able to get the water elementals to cooperate, but now they have to travel to find the land elementals. Problem is, no one can tell them precisely where they are since they’ve been missing for thousands of years.
In this second installment, Land Keep, the captivating adventure continues. Marcus—a boy with magical powers, and Kyja—a girl who wants magic more than anything. The two soon find out that they each have to trade what’s most dear to them in order to survive.
Since Marcus’s birth, sacrifices have been made in his behalf that he is only now beginning to realize. But the longer he stays on Farworld, the faster his health declines. In a race against time, the characters must outsmart the Keepers and determine who is really on their side.
The plot is far from simple, but the complexity is rich and satisfying as questions proposed in Water Keep are answered in Land Keep. A clear picture of this new world emerges as the characters discover that things are not necessarily as they seem. Land Keep is highly visual, fast-paced, with multi-layered intrigue. But most importantly, the characters breathe life into the pages, pulling us into a magical realm. One that is truly powerful.
Monday, October 5, 2009
ALMA Blog Tour & Updates
This past weekend I signed at the Redwood Seagull Book in Salt Lake. It's always an exciting time to do a booksigning because people come from all over the world to SLC during General Conference. One thing on their to-do list is to shop for the newest LDS materials.
I signed books for a couple of long-time readers, and also a gentleman from Canada and another from England. So Alma will be doing some traveling.
This past week, I also had the opportunity to read an advance copy of David West's upcoming book Heroes of the Fallen. This book won't be available in November, but David asked me to read it several months ago, so I was excited to get the ARC. Heroes of the Fallen is a novel based on the last days of the Nephite civilization. From the first chapter (Prologue), I was captured by David's writing style. It's very poetic and vivid, reminiscint of the time and culture. I told David that coming up with description in my own writing is not a natural talent, but something I have to go back through my first draft and add in.
Speaking of writing, I'm about 200 pages into Alma the Younger. This past week, I was able to make some important decisions and actually outline most of the rest of the book. Outlining is not something I do much--Brandon Sanderson would call my writing style "multi-drafting." But I'm excited to complete the 150 or so pages left, and see what my beta readers think!
A few more reviews came in for ALMA, Check them out:
Jennie Hansen--Meridian Magazine
It's always an honor to be reviewed by Jennie Hansen on Meridian Magazine. She is a prolific and well-respected LDS reviewer, but she doesn't review everything she's sent. She is also a bestselling author, and her new book, Shudder just came out. It looks fascinating, and it's on my list of fall reading.
Jewel Adams--Jewel's World
Another author! Jewel has published several clean romances, and she graciously reviews books as well. Her latest book, Place in This World was just released.
Heather Justesen--Clean Books for LDS Families
Heather Justesen just started a Facebook page for Clean Books. She included Alma in her line up (thanks!), and Heather also has her first book coming this month: The Ball's In Her Court.
Ronda Hinrichsen--The Write Blocks
Ronda is an award-winning author. She just won the Best Novel award from the League of Utah Writers for her unpublished book, TRAPPED. Her first book, MISSING, will be out this month.
I signed books for a couple of long-time readers, and also a gentleman from Canada and another from England. So Alma will be doing some traveling.
This past week, I also had the opportunity to read an advance copy of David West's upcoming book Heroes of the Fallen. This book won't be available in November, but David asked me to read it several months ago, so I was excited to get the ARC. Heroes of the Fallen is a novel based on the last days of the Nephite civilization. From the first chapter (Prologue), I was captured by David's writing style. It's very poetic and vivid, reminiscint of the time and culture. I told David that coming up with description in my own writing is not a natural talent, but something I have to go back through my first draft and add in.
Speaking of writing, I'm about 200 pages into Alma the Younger. This past week, I was able to make some important decisions and actually outline most of the rest of the book. Outlining is not something I do much--Brandon Sanderson would call my writing style "multi-drafting." But I'm excited to complete the 150 or so pages left, and see what my beta readers think!
A few more reviews came in for ALMA, Check them out:
Jennie Hansen--Meridian Magazine
It's always an honor to be reviewed by Jennie Hansen on Meridian Magazine. She is a prolific and well-respected LDS reviewer, but she doesn't review everything she's sent. She is also a bestselling author, and her new book, Shudder just came out. It looks fascinating, and it's on my list of fall reading.
Jewel Adams--Jewel's World
Another author! Jewel has published several clean romances, and she graciously reviews books as well. Her latest book, Place in This World was just released.
Heather Justesen--Clean Books for LDS Families
Heather Justesen just started a Facebook page for Clean Books. She included Alma in her line up (thanks!), and Heather also has her first book coming this month: The Ball's In Her Court.
Ronda Hinrichsen--The Write Blocks
Ronda is an award-winning author. She just won the Best Novel award from the League of Utah Writers for her unpublished book, TRAPPED. Her first book, MISSING, will be out this month.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
ALMA Blog Tour & Booksignings
A busy week! I'm a little behind my word count goal--I wrote 4,000 words in Alma the Younger, and my goal was 5,000. One of the reasons is because I had to prepare a presentation for the Book Academy Conference at UVU. I blogged about the keynote speaker, Brandon Sanderson, here. I can't wait to read his newest book, Warbreaker. Any Brandon Sanderson fans out there?
So I took my first Alma the Younger chapter to my critique group. It's a chapter that might be a forward prologue (kind of what I did in Abinadi). They liked it, but they thought the "hook" wasn't powerful enough--you know those pesky first chapters have to draw the reader in immediately. So back to the drawing board. I wrote a completely new chapter last night, and will still retain parts of the former chapter, but I'll be interested in what my critique group will say now.
Back to Brandon Sanderson--he saves drafts of all his books. In other words the chapter I just nixed, he would have kept it and put it up for his readers to review. Hmmm. Something to think about.
On Friday, I signed copies of Alma at the Seagull Book in American Fork. I think I signed every last copy in their store (like 50+). So if you need a signed copy--go there!
Some really great reviews and interviews came in this week for the blog tour:
Kathi Oram Peterson at Kathi's Writing Nook: She is another Book of Mormon fiction writer and has written The Forgotten Warrior--a YA novel that's a time travel story. It's a very entertaining read, for teens and adults alike. Awhile back, I reviewed The Forgotten Warrior here.
Nikki Wilson of Mormon Mommy Writers posted an interview with me. Nikki is also a writer, and her big question for me was how to push past writer's block. You can check out the interview to find out my tips :)
Danyelle Ferguson at Queen of the Clan also reviewed Alma. Danyelle is also a writer, and is in the final stages of her upcoming book: Teaching Special Spirits. Her journey to publication has been really interesting, and I'm looking forward to her new book.
Nichole Giles of Random-Ish reviewed Alma on her blog, along with some funny questions. Nichole is also a writer and her first book will be out this December: Mormon Mishaps and Mischiefs--Hilarious Stories for Saints. If you read Nichole's other blog posts, she is a really funny gal, the perfect person to write this type of book.
Thanks Ladies!
My next book signing is:
October 2, 2009 - Redwood Seagull Book,
Pre-Conference Signing 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. (1720 South Redwood Road, SLC, UTAH)
Also to read the first three chapters of either Abinadi or Alma go here.
So I took my first Alma the Younger chapter to my critique group. It's a chapter that might be a forward prologue (kind of what I did in Abinadi). They liked it, but they thought the "hook" wasn't powerful enough--you know those pesky first chapters have to draw the reader in immediately. So back to the drawing board. I wrote a completely new chapter last night, and will still retain parts of the former chapter, but I'll be interested in what my critique group will say now.
Back to Brandon Sanderson--he saves drafts of all his books. In other words the chapter I just nixed, he would have kept it and put it up for his readers to review. Hmmm. Something to think about.
On Friday, I signed copies of Alma at the Seagull Book in American Fork. I think I signed every last copy in their store (like 50+). So if you need a signed copy--go there!
Some really great reviews and interviews came in this week for the blog tour:
Kathi Oram Peterson at Kathi's Writing Nook: She is another Book of Mormon fiction writer and has written The Forgotten Warrior--a YA novel that's a time travel story. It's a very entertaining read, for teens and adults alike. Awhile back, I reviewed The Forgotten Warrior here.
Nikki Wilson of Mormon Mommy Writers posted an interview with me. Nikki is also a writer, and her big question for me was how to push past writer's block. You can check out the interview to find out my tips :)
Danyelle Ferguson at Queen of the Clan also reviewed Alma. Danyelle is also a writer, and is in the final stages of her upcoming book: Teaching Special Spirits. Her journey to publication has been really interesting, and I'm looking forward to her new book.
Nichole Giles of Random-Ish reviewed Alma on her blog, along with some funny questions. Nichole is also a writer and her first book will be out this December: Mormon Mishaps and Mischiefs--Hilarious Stories for Saints. If you read Nichole's other blog posts, she is a really funny gal, the perfect person to write this type of book.
Thanks Ladies!
My next book signing is:
October 2, 2009 - Redwood Seagull Book,
Pre-Conference Signing 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. (1720 South Redwood Road, SLC, UTAH)
Also to read the first three chapters of either Abinadi or Alma go here.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
ALMA Blog Tour & 2009 LUW Conference
The drive to the League of Utah Writers conference in Midway, Utah was worth all preparation. The fall colors are just starting to hit throughout the canyon. The best thing about writers conferences is reuniting with friends and finding out what they are up to. This conference is the first one I attended as an aspiring writer in 2002. So it's really cool to return 7 years later with 6 books published.
I taught a couple of workshops on Saturday (which I'll highlight on my editing blog), and I listened to several great speakers. Even more than a writer, I'm a reader and a huge fan of many authors. I met Sandra Dallas (alas, no picture), and I also attended a workshop by Richard Paul Evans (thanks Nichole Giles for the picture!). He is one of those brilliant marketers, and I feel like I have to write down every word he says.
I taught a couple of workshops on Saturday (which I'll highlight on my editing blog), and I listened to several great speakers. Even more than a writer, I'm a reader and a huge fan of many authors. I met Sandra Dallas (alas, no picture), and I also attended a workshop by Richard Paul Evans (thanks Nichole Giles for the picture!). He is one of those brilliant marketers, and I feel like I have to write down every word he says.
Me with Richard Paul Evans
Alison Palmer of Tangled Words and Dreams recently posted her review of Alma here! Alison frequently reviews books on her site, and she is also an author. If you teach kids, she has books to fit your needs. Her next book Simply Singing Time will be out in October. Thanks Alison!
Is anyone coming to the UVU Writers and Readers Conference this Thursday? (Sept 24) I'll be teaching a class, and I just printed off the schedule. This conference could be two days--there will be so many great speakers, including Brandon Sanderson, Rachel Ann Nunes, James Dashner, Josi Kilpack, J. Scott Savage, Anita Stansfield, Julie Coulter Bellon, Tristi Pinkston . . . okay, here's the link, you can check it out for yourself!
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
ALMA Blog Tour
This week three more reviews have come in.
Thanks to Mary Campbell of the Literary Girls Writing Group, who posted a review of Alma. It's a fun blog to peruse because the contributors talk about books! Which I love in all shapes and sizes, of course. Just this week I've read Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins, and started reading The Actor and the Housewife by Shannon Hale (which is completely zany so far!).
Also, Jen posted her review as well--otherwise known as JenHeadJen. (What's the story behind that name?) She also fired some interview questions at me, so my favorite color is now no longer a secret. Check out Jen's blog, where else, but JenHeadJen. Thanks, Jen!
Thanks to Tamara Heiner who posted her review on ALMA. Everyone has been so fast! There's a pretty good comment trail going on the review already. Check it out at Chasing Dreams. I also enjoyed reading Tamara's other interviews/reviews of various books and authors. Tamara has her own book coming out Fall 2010. Congrats!
This weekend I'll be teaching a couple of workshops at the LUW Conference in Heber, Utah. I'm excited to mix and mingle with crazy writer people like me :)
Thanks to Mary Campbell of the Literary Girls Writing Group, who posted a review of Alma. It's a fun blog to peruse because the contributors talk about books! Which I love in all shapes and sizes, of course. Just this week I've read Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins, and started reading The Actor and the Housewife by Shannon Hale (which is completely zany so far!).
Also, Jen posted her review as well--otherwise known as JenHeadJen. (What's the story behind that name?) She also fired some interview questions at me, so my favorite color is now no longer a secret. Check out Jen's blog, where else, but JenHeadJen. Thanks, Jen!
Thanks to Tamara Heiner who posted her review on ALMA. Everyone has been so fast! There's a pretty good comment trail going on the review already. Check it out at Chasing Dreams. I also enjoyed reading Tamara's other interviews/reviews of various books and authors. Tamara has her own book coming out Fall 2010. Congrats!
This weekend I'll be teaching a couple of workshops at the LUW Conference in Heber, Utah. I'm excited to mix and mingle with crazy writer people like me :)
Thursday, September 10, 2009
ALMA Blog Tour & Read first 3 chapters!
Thank you to Andrea Frisby who wrote a review on Alma here. She is the first official reviewer on in this blog tour. She runs a movie review site, so it was a question of where to post the review. She decided to post on her regular blog, but if you want to hop over to her movie review site, visit Movie Reviews by Andrea. I read through several of her movie reviews, and we have very similar opinions! Thanks, Andrea for your book review!
I've also worked the past few days on getting the first three chapters of ALMA available for you to read on-line. With my techo-challenged mind, I finally turned it over to my brilliant webmaster who designed my website.
Read the first three chapters of ALMA here!
And if for some reason, you haven't read Abinadi, you can read the first three chapters of ABINADI here!
Reminder on my book signings--hope to see some of you there!
September 11, 2009 - West Jordan Seagull Book 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. (1625 West 9000 South, West Jordan, UTAH)
September 25, 2009 - American Fork Seagull Book 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. (218 West State Road, American Fork, UT)
October 2, 2009 - Redwood Seagull Book, Pre-Conference Signing 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. (1720 South Redwood Road, SLC, UTAH)
I've also worked the past few days on getting the first three chapters of ALMA available for you to read on-line. With my techo-challenged mind, I finally turned it over to my brilliant webmaster who designed my website.
Read the first three chapters of ALMA here!
And if for some reason, you haven't read Abinadi, you can read the first three chapters of ABINADI here!
Reminder on my book signings--hope to see some of you there!
September 11, 2009 - West Jordan Seagull Book 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. (1625 West 9000 South, West Jordan, UTAH)
September 25, 2009 - American Fork Seagull Book 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. (218 West State Road, American Fork, UT)
October 2, 2009 - Redwood Seagull Book, Pre-Conference Signing 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. (1720 South Redwood Road, SLC, UTAH)
Monday, September 7, 2009
ALMA Blog Tour & The Hidden Branch
Sheila Staley of the LDS Womens Book Review podcast posted her review and a short interview she did with me on her blog today. Sheila is one great woman--she teaches school and she is an aspiring writer. She's very fun to be with and has an awesome sense of humor (which you can kind of tell by the title of her blog :)
This is a picture of me with the LDS Womens' podcast ladies when we were all at the Whitney Award Gala last April. Check out Sheila's blog, as well as the podcast. Annette Lyon and I were interviewed in Episode #35, and I just saw they have Episode #36 up--with Josi Kilpack and Michele Paige Holmes, two of my favorite authors.*****************************************************************
If you love mysteries, you need to check out the giveaway that GG Vandagriff is doing for her latest romantic suspense novel: The Hidden Branch. Anyone who purchases her book online or in the store before September 17th will qualify for the Alex and Briggie gift package and a chance to win an autographed set of the entire series.
Rules:
1. Email GG your name and address (email is listed on her website: http://ggvandagriff.com/)
2. Tell GG where you bought the book
Saturday, September 5, 2009
ALMA Blog Tour & Another Giveaway!
Two more reviews came in this weekend:
1. Cache Valley Magazine, p. 12
By reviewer Charlene Hirschi. Charlene is one of those reviewers that authors scramble to get attention from. She is the former Writing Center Director of Utah State and has many publishing credentials herself. She has graciously reviewed several of my other books, and in the process has converted from a non-fan of historical fiction based on scripture, to a reviewer who has enjoyed my books immensely. But still, the anticipation is high when I hand over my manuscript for her to read.
2. The Ultimate in Time Travel: Alma
Recently, GG Vandagriff interviewed me on her blog. I met her through LDStorymakers last spring. I had seen her books, but had never read one, and I knew she wrote columns for Meridian Magazine. But when she asked a few questions on the list, I jumped in and answered them--something I don't always do because there are nearly 100 people on that list and it becomes overwhelming to keep up with much. GG was looking for reviewers for The Last Waltz, and I agreed to be one (also something I don't always do). But I literally loved that book, and I was so amazed that from a simple email, I had found a new author to read! This past week, GG agreed to read Alma in PDF form and last night she posted her review.
As an added bonus, if you make a comment on GG's blog, you will be entered into a drawing for a free copy of Alma! So if you aren't already on my blog tour list, or want to give away a copy, go over and comment on GG's blog for your chance to win!
Happy Labor Day Weekend :)
1. Cache Valley Magazine, p. 12
By reviewer Charlene Hirschi. Charlene is one of those reviewers that authors scramble to get attention from. She is the former Writing Center Director of Utah State and has many publishing credentials herself. She has graciously reviewed several of my other books, and in the process has converted from a non-fan of historical fiction based on scripture, to a reviewer who has enjoyed my books immensely. But still, the anticipation is high when I hand over my manuscript for her to read.
2. The Ultimate in Time Travel: Alma
Recently, GG Vandagriff interviewed me on her blog. I met her through LDStorymakers last spring. I had seen her books, but had never read one, and I knew she wrote columns for Meridian Magazine. But when she asked a few questions on the list, I jumped in and answered them--something I don't always do because there are nearly 100 people on that list and it becomes overwhelming to keep up with much. GG was looking for reviewers for The Last Waltz, and I agreed to be one (also something I don't always do). But I literally loved that book, and I was so amazed that from a simple email, I had found a new author to read! This past week, GG agreed to read Alma in PDF form and last night she posted her review.
As an added bonus, if you make a comment on GG's blog, you will be entered into a drawing for a free copy of Alma! So if you aren't already on my blog tour list, or want to give away a copy, go over and comment on GG's blog for your chance to win!
Happy Labor Day Weekend :)
Friday, September 4, 2009
ALMA Blog Tour & Booksigning Updates
Thanks to Julie Ford and Jenn Wilks for posting reviews of ALMA on their blogs. Check them out!
How NOT to get Published
Lifelong Bookworm
Julie and Jenn are both writers. I've read 1.5 of Julie's books--she writes women's fiction, which were great, and so I was a little nervous about her review. Julie lives in Tennessee and I've visited her bookgroup through the phone! We did a conference call, and the ladies in her group are a riot.
Jenn also writes (I think fantasy???), but she also reviews a lot of books, so again thanks for the very nice reviews, ladies!
I'll keep a running tally of reviews/interviews on the sidebar.
Also, here is the most updated booksigning list--they are all Friday lunch hours!
September 11, 2009 - West Jordan Seagull Book 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. (1625 West 9000 South, West Jordan, UTAH)
September 25, 2009 - American Fork Seagull Book 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. (218 West State Road, American Fork, UT)
October 2, 2009 - Redwood Seagull Book, Pre-Conference Signing 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. (1720 South Redwood Road, SLC, UTAH)
How NOT to get Published
Lifelong Bookworm
Julie and Jenn are both writers. I've read 1.5 of Julie's books--she writes women's fiction, which were great, and so I was a little nervous about her review. Julie lives in Tennessee and I've visited her bookgroup through the phone! We did a conference call, and the ladies in her group are a riot.
Jenn also writes (I think fantasy???), but she also reviews a lot of books, so again thanks for the very nice reviews, ladies!
I'll keep a running tally of reviews/interviews on the sidebar.
Also, here is the most updated booksigning list--they are all Friday lunch hours!
September 11, 2009 - West Jordan Seagull Book 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. (1625 West 9000 South, West Jordan, UTAH)
September 25, 2009 - American Fork Seagull Book 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. (218 West State Road, American Fork, UT)
October 2, 2009 - Redwood Seagull Book, Pre-Conference Signing 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. (1720 South Redwood Road, SLC, UTAH)
Monday, August 31, 2009
Author Copies of ALMA
I picked up my author copies of ALMA today. I stopped by a Seagull Book, but it wasn't on the shelves yet. So maybe by this weekend.
I have two book signings scheduled so far:
September 11, 2009 - West Jordan Seagull Book 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. (1625 West 9000 South, West Jordan, UTAH)
October 2, 2009 - Redwood Seagull Book, Pre-Conference Signing 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. (1720 South Redwood Road, SLC, UTAH)
Also, I found out that on Saturday, GG Vandagriff (author of The Last Waltz) posted an interview she did with me. Thanks, GG!
Friday, August 28, 2009
Book Trailer for ALMA
Thanks for the WONDERFUL response for doing reviews for ALMA. I'm really excited to see what you all think (and nervous, of course).
Okay, I put this book trailer for ALMA together last night. See what you think :)
Okay, I put this book trailer for ALMA together last night. See what you think :)
Or on You Tube here
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
ALMA--Blog Tour Announcement--How to Get your Review Copy
Alma will be released September 1, 2009, which means that next week I'll begin mailing out review copies. I have set aside 15 review copies for this tour (although I might go to 20 if I get enough interest).
I will mail you a review copy of ALMA if:
1. You have a blog where you can review my book.
2. You become or are a follower of this blog.
3. You agree to read Alma in September or October.
4. You agree to post a review (or you can also interview me) during September or October 2009 (exceptions can be made for special circumstances).
5. You send me the link to your review/interview so that I can post it on my blog.
TO ENTER:
1. Please leave a comment in the comment trail if you are interested!
2. Then email me at this address (my computer crashed, so this is my backup email address):
heatherbmoore01 [at] hotmail [dot] com
heatherbmoore01 [at] hotmail [dot] com
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